Saturday's NOAA forecast was for 2-4" snow at Dutchman.  Sunday's forecast changed a bit:  9-17" new snow!  So we anticipated a lot of trail breaking though deep snow, but were happily disappointed to find the entire Dutchman Loop tracked out.  It was such a beautiful day, and the group was strong and eager to ski longer and further that we decided to ski up Flagline Tie, down Flagline to Big Meadow and return to the Todd Lake TH where we had started.

Needless to say, we switched off breaking trail, but it was slow going.  No one complained as it was so beautiful with fresh snow on the treetops and blue sky beyond.  The biggest joy was lack of snowmobiles, even in Dutchman Flats.

Conditions through the little Flagline valley and down through the Big Meadow hemlocks were the best I've ever skied.  Everyone appreciated the extended tour, but I think everyone was also pretty tired at the end and ready to be done!

Photos by John Sweat