Proud to be from Ashland

Twenty-Something

Last weekend I traveled down to South Lake Tahoe for a snowboarding trip extravaganza. I wanted to get away from the accustomed slopes of A-town and meet up with some old friends, not knowing what to expect when we got there. Was the snow good? Were the slopes too challenging? I had no idea.

By the time we arrived at Carson Pass the snow was intense and formed steep, soft inclines alongside the road, extending beyond its margins. The snow fell slow and steady and gave the illusion of stars falling in the night sky. We chained up excitedly, looking forward to the ostensibly increasing amounts of snow and the potential relaxation in front of a cabin fireplace.

Pulling into the small town we noticed small wedding chapels lining the streets and a few choice coffee shops and restaurants. I guess people like to come here to ski and elope? It’s kind of cool and a little comical. All I could think about was watching Elvis marry two drunk and in love twenty-something’s in a snow covered chapel. Awesome. The cabin we stayed in was charming and cozy. It was late, so we quickly went off to bed knowing we were waking up early to head up the mountain.

It’s true what they say about Heavenly Mountain Resort, it is heavenly. It was covered in soft, deep, powdery snow that glistened in the bright, warm sun like glitter. It was beautiful. The runs were groomed and long, but perfect for practicing your riding technique. There were numerous bars and lodges all over the mountain. It felt like we were on a new ski resort every time we came up to a new little lodge or barbeque outdoors. Smells of smoked ribs and tangy sauce filled the air, alluring skiers and riders to the area. It did taste as good as it smelled.

After an amazing day at Heavenly, I couldn’t help but wish we had a little bit more of a challenge. Maybe a little bit more of an incline or a few more riders doing tricks and hitting jumps? That’s what I love so dearly about Mt. Ashland. You see little kids, maybe 6 or 7-year-olds flying through the air spinning 360’s. Where was the talent in South Lake Tahoe? I had to find it.

That night the fireplace was incredible just as we had hoped. Nothing is better than soaking in a hot tub and then warming up in front of a fireplace after a long day of riding. The next day we would go to Kirkwood, in search of some talent like we see in Ashland. Early to bed and early to rise. The guys fought over who would be the first one up. One said, “I’m going to set my alarm for 5:45.” Then the next would say, “Well I’m going to set mine for 5:44.” It was hilarious. I said, “Just let me sleep in as long as I can.”

The drive to Kirkwood was crazy. It was beautiful but completely dangerous and sketch the whole way. I watched large trucks spin circles trying to break in the rearview mirror and then turn back in trepidation of not making it. When we made it to Kirkwood Resort, you could already tell the caliber of skiers and riders on the mountain. Even the energy was exciting. There were very few beginner runs on Kirkwood, and right away, I could see extreme riding from a distance.

When people were asking where we were from, we would tell them we were from Ashland and their reactions were nothing short of excitement. Locals, tourists, and employees on the mountain had unanimously decided that from Ashland came the best skiers and riders that have been on Kirkwood. Yes its true, our small little town has produced some of the best riders many people have ever seen. I was so proud to be from Ashland, but a little intimidated with the pressure of expectations. Though I can’t yet live up to the expectations, I know many who can.

Ashland has built itself quite the reputation on the west coast. It completely deserves it. I’ve been up a few times this week and relished in our little mountain in a way that I never have. It looked and felt entirely different to me, and appreciated it so much more. I just want to tell all of you riders and skiers out there, good job, you are talented and keep on keepin’ on! Be proud to be from Ashland!