Snowcast: Clear days ahead for riding on fresh snow

Most of January was depressingly dry, and while snow from December and cold temperatures through this month ensured that conditions remained OK, what we all want is natural snow to freshen up the slopes continually.

Thankfully, this past week offered just that as a series of four storms swept over the state. When all is said and done Thursday afternoon, most areas will have recorded at least a foot during the past seven days. The big winners will be Steamboat in the north and Wolf Creek, Durango and Silverton in the south, with each measuring more than 40 inches of new snow.

The initial storm was a quick-hitter last Thursday for northern Colorado, and the second storm brought plenty of moisture and snow to southern Colorado on Saturday. The third round unleashed heavy snow on the southern and central mountains Sunday and Monday, while the last push provided snow (and wind) to northern Colorado on Wednesday and Thursday.

Phew! Not that we dislike snow, but a few days of clear skies this weekend will be a welcome change and will help us catch our breath.

Looking ahead, it’s too far out for details, but snow looks like a good possibility starting the middle of next week. Yes, go ahead and rejoice as the snow drought of mid-January is something that won’t be returning anytime soon.

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For snow forecasts for ski areas, visit OpenSnow.com.