The snow gods were kind to all those who attended the 4th Annual Get Out and Backcountry Ski Festival at Bolton Valley on Sunday. Under sunny skies and temperatures in the mid 20's, participants were treated to day of fun and adventure on 8" of new powder covering a firm base. 

Sixty-five participants were eager to learn new backcountry skills from the nine expert instructors who volunteered their time for this event. Skiers were divided up into groups based on ability, learning everything from the basic downhill snowplow turn to carving linked telemark turns in steep terrain. After a fun morning of lessons, skiers congregated for two talks on equipment and safety in the backcountry by CTA Executive Director Jim Fredericks and CTA Trail Director Amy Kelsey. 

The afternoon's program consisted of guided tours and lessons throughout the extensive backcountry of Bolton Valley followed by a very informative and interesting multi-media  presentation by David Goodman, the author of the Best of Backcountry Skiing in the Northeast. All participants were also treated to beverages along with snacks by Cabot Creamery and Vermont Smoke and Cure while anxiously awaiting for the drawing of over $1000 in raffle prizes, which put a delightful ending to a perfect day. 

A special thanks goes out to Canoe Imports, EMS, Onion River Sports, and Outdoor Gear Exchange for providing demos and prizes for the raffle. Turtle Fur provided hats for all the volunteer instructors and Bolton Valley Resort provided another great day on some of the best backcountry trails in the East.