It wasn't exactly a ski day that I would have planned, but I have made it a point to head to the mountains on January 1. It's a tradition, one that I have been doing for many years, to ski on New Year's Day.

Yesterday was a beautiful day overhead, but it was quite different if you ventured out into the cold, brisk air.

My trek was to Sugarloaf. I left home around 6:30 a.m. I noticed that my heater wasn't putting out the warm air it normally does. I checked the onboard temperature. It was hovering between -4 to -8 degrees when I passed by Carrabassett Valley. No wonder I felt a chill. But what I didn't realize until I stepped out of my Jeep was the wind! It was blowing a gale, and as I looked up towards the mountain, the flags were flying straight out and the chairs were not moving.

The Boardwalk double runner short side started up around 9 a.m., and that's about the only movement any of the lifts made the whole day.

Wind gusts were blowing at the summit over 75 mph, bringing the chill factor to between -50 to -60 degrees. Needless to say not many skiers or riders were out. However, as the day progressed, Perfect Turns instructors had a few groups out on the snow. It was also a delight to see a few families with little trekkers enjoying their day on the slopes.

I heard on the news that the Boston area received over 10 inches of snow. As if they really need it. However, snowmaking on many trails made the mountain appear to be under a cloud of smoke blowing across the trails. This weekend should be a good one, so get out on your favorite trail.

Seth Wescott at Sugarloaf Saturday
Olympic Gold Medalist Seth Wescott will be on hand Saturday, January 3 at 10 a.m. to open the new Sidewinder Snowboardcross Couse at Sugarloaf.

Wescott has been heavily involved with the development of the new course. Following the ceremonies, he will sign autographs in the Sugarloaf Board Room.

The Sidewinder Snowboardcross course is located underneath the SuperQuad.

Ski and ride safely. Use your head and don't forget to wear a helmet!