With all the hectic-ness of the holidays and being cooped up in a crowded house with company, I knew I had to get out first thing. There are no shortage of ski trails to enjoy this time of year, but I had a hankering for the loop at the Mammoth Terraces. Though short – 1.4 miles – the Terrace Loop is one of my favorite skis in the park. After about December 20, Yellowstone National Park Lodges grooms it regularly.
The rolling trail winds through scattered juniper trees and hot springs and other thermal features, and regular views of the surrounding peaks. There was no one out this morning. I was only about 2 minutes into the ski when I noticed the way the morning light was playing through the steam at Canary Spring. Off came the skis as I pranced down the boardwalk to try to capture the light.
The peace of the thermal features in winter is almost indescribable. The moist, humic smell of a travertine hot spring, the billowing steam, the quiet and solitude of a world blanketed in snow….
The ski was almost an afterthought after spending time with the thermals. Almost, but not quite. The freshly groomed snow swished under my feet as I glided through the rising sun and the long shadows. Now, I am ready to face the day—a changed woman.