Spring Skiing at Its Very Best: Crust Skiing

As the ski season winds down, there’s still plenty to look forward to: crust skiing (aka, crust cruising). It’s an exhilarating way to enjoy the last days of skiing, especially once local ski areas stop grooming. Imagine the freedom of gliding anywhere the snow takes you—no trails required. It's a liberating and adventurous experience. Ready to give it a try? Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your crust skiing adventures.

Simply put: it's like flying on skis. In spring, as the snowpack melts during sunny days and refreezes at night, it forms a hard crust. This crust often becomes solid enough to support a skier, allowing you to ski anywhere it’s present; smooth, fast, and completely untethered by trails.

Timing is everything when it comes to crust skiing. Here’s what to look for:

• Weather Conditions: Warm, sunny days paired with nights well below freezing are ideal. A string of these conditions over several days is even better.
• No Recent Precipitation: Rain or fresh snow can disrupt the crust, so plan your outing after a few dry days.
• Early Morning Start: The crust is firmest in the morning before the day’s warmth softens it. Aim to hit the snow shortly after sunrise.
• Pay Attention to Changing Conditions: Keep an eye on the crust as the day warms. If it starts to soften too much, it might no longer support your weight, and you could end up postholing instead of gliding.

• Use Older Skis: The icy, abrasive nature of the crust can cause wear and tear, especially along the edges. Save your high-end race skis for groomed tracks.
• Wax Smart: Hard glide waxes (like Rode Endurance) are your best friends. These waxes harden your bases and help reduce damage from the crust’s aggressive texture. Stop byor call BNS for recommendations or to stock up.

• Protect Yourself: Spring sun is intense. Bring plenty of sunscreen and apply it liberally.
• Stay Hydrated: Pack extra water to stay energized during your adventure.
• Be Mindful: Conditions can change quickly, so be prepared to wrap up your ski if the crust starts to give way.

If you’re curious about crust skiing or need guidance on ski prep, don’t hesitate to reach out to BNS! Our experts are always happy to help you gear up and make the most of your time on the snow.

So, grab your skis, head out early, and enjoy the magic of spring skiing at its finest. Crust cruising awaits!