Aspen Ski Season Ends on High Note Despite Drought

As I stand at the base of Aspen Mountain, the warm sun on my skin and the sound of skiers and snowboarders laughing and chatting as they make their way down the mountain, I'm reminded of the incredible season we've just had. The ski season may have come to a close on April 19, but the memories of carving through spring snow and mud will linger on. The smell of wet earth and melting snow fills the air, a potent reminder of the earth's abundance, even in a drought year.

The Aspen Skiing Company deserves credit for pulling off a remarkably solid season, despite the real challenges posed by the drought. It's clear that their tireless efforts to adjust and adapt on the fly paid off, and the collective exhale from the SkiCo team is almost palpable. I recall a conversation with a skier who had been to resorts all over the world, and he said that Aspen had the best conditions he'd found anywhere, which speaks highly of the hard work of the groomers, mountain managers, and employees who showed up day after day to make it happen.

As I look around, I notice the mix of locals and visitors, all of whom seem to be savoring the last bits of the season. Some, who typically ski at Vail, came to Aspen after it closed and were blown away by the quality of the skiing, even in April. It's a reminder that, despite what some might say, Aspen still has a heart and a strong sense of community, particularly when it comes to skiing. The fact that skiers and snowboarders were willing to trudge through mud to get in one last run speaks volumes about the dedication and passion of the people who call this place home.

As we enter Taurus season, the emphasis shifts to savoring the pleasures of the present moment. It's a time to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and indulge in activities that bring joy and sensual pleasure. For some, that means skiing down Spar and Copper, feeling the rush of the wind and the sun on their skin, and reveling in the deep, embodied joy of being alive. As the sun shines down on the valley, casting a warm glow over the landscape, I'm reminded of the importance of being present and living in the moment.

The constantly shifting conditions of Taurus season, with its mix of warm sunshine, snow, and mud, require a certain level of flexibility and adaptability. It's a time to let go of expectations and plans, and simply be, allowing oneself to flow with the visceral rhythms of the natural world. As I gaze out at the hearty daffodils and the light green sweeping across the valley, I'm struck by the beauty and resilience of the earth, even in the face of drought and uncertainty.

As the days unfold, and Venus and Uranus enter Gemini, shifting us into a more mental and curious space, I'm aware of the need to balance the desire for knowledge and exploration with the importance of staying grounded and present. It's a delicate balance, one that requires attention and intention, but the rewards are well worth the effort. For now, though, I'm content to simply be, to soak up the increasing sun, and to welcome whatever moisture we're lucky enough to receive. The sound of snowmelt trickling through the rocks, and the smell of wet earth rising up from the ground, are potent reminders of the beauty and wonder of this place, and the importance of appreciating it, just as it is.