For the week of January 22 - 28, 2003

Feelin’ lucky

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No one in the Wood River Valley won the last big lottery, but everyone living, working, boarding or skiing here should feel pretty lucky even so.

In what is turning out to be one of the bigger droughts, the valley’s snow pack is at or near normal levels, and riding on Baldy is really, really good.

Even though total skier numbers nationwide are flat, the local numbers are still a significant business benchmark. (Skier numbers include snowboarders.) When skier numbers are good, local business generally is good.

Good snow brings in good business, more often than not. Best of all, it makes everyone happy.

Colorado, Utah and Wyoming, on the other hand, are hurting for snow. Some areas have seen race cancellations because of poor snow conditions. Runs are open at major resorts, but conditions can’t compare to Sun Valley where warm days and cold nights are keeping the snow pack firm and fast.

Those who would keep Baldy to themselves, however, need not worry. A high percentage of skiers who frequent the slopes of Sun Valley’s competitors may not be up to Baldy’s challenge. Baldy is for folks who welcome a little angle with their turns and who can control their flight speed.

However, good snow should mean that skiers who would love Baldy if they try it are more likely to take a look and consider giving Sun Valley a go. That should bode well for the future.

The valley is winning the weather sweepstakes. The combination of sunshine and normal snow in the middle of a regional drought is a stroke of luck—a bright spot in uncertain times.

The Idaho Mountain Express is distributed free to residents and guests throughout the Sun Valley, Idaho resort area community. Subscribers to the Idaho Mountain Express will read these stories and others in this week's issue.