Shirouma

The day after skiing the northeast face of Shirouma promised for optimal weather. We decided it was time for round two. Burning the candle at both ends with these long days, I couldn't help but allow 'Brown Girl in the Ring' to creep into my head while walking in the dark. Sunrise couldn't have come soon enough.

It's been no secret through our reports of 'wet dreams' the spring skiing around here has been very premeditated. Whether visible from the safety of the lodge, or the exposure of a steep switchback, there has been one line tugging at the mind more than others. Significantly more. And not surprisingly so.

On Honshu, the transition from winter to spring can be painful. In March, temperatures rise, but the mountain weather remains as wild as ever. The result is rapid and violent transitions from heat and sun to rain, cold, snow and heavy doses of wind.