It’s time to welcome back the CORN

An explanation of corn snow and tips for enjoying this rare gift

We are truly giddy at Wolf Creek Resort as a very rare phenomenon is approaching – CORN SNOW. Why is it rare and why are we so giddy? Well, it’s rare because it takes several melt/freeze cycles to create the corn (5-7 days) and that means warm days and cool nights with no storms. That type of weather is very unusual during a Utah spring. We’re giddy because it’s a lot of fun to chase the corn around the mountain all morning. When it’s gone for the day, there’s nothing better then hanging around on the deck at your favorite ski resort with a beverage, soaking up the sun and visiting with friends – old and new.

Here’s a brief definition of corn snow:

Coarse, granular wet snow. During the spring diurnal cycle of melting and refreezing the corn snow skiing is at its best in mid to late morning, after a layer has begun to melt but before it is too wet and sloppy.

Basically, it’s snow that melted and refroze to form a strange rough granular consistency. Think of the thin, yummy crust on a well prepared crème brulle and you’ll have a sense of snow that is on the verge of changing to corn.

And a quote from Ski Magazine that you’ll enjoy:

“It’s the product of a convergence of sun, snow and exposure. And it seems fitting that it shows up each spring, when the weather warms and the clothes come off. Corn snow treats you like your first girlfriend: Everything you do is perfect. With every slight shift of weight you become a world-class racer—every inch the sultan of snow. What skill! What grace! What control! Go ahead; check out your shadow as you jet down the slope. You’ll like what you see.”

Tips for finding the best corn:

Check out temperatures. The best corn requires freezing temps during the night and slow thawing during the morning.
Arrive early! You might find northern aspects of a trail a little firm at first but don’t get discouraged. Keep searching. If you are a little early stop for a cup of coffee or tea.
Follow the sun. Aspects that face south are always the ones to hit first.
Check out the off trail. If it’s a good corn day getting off the trail can be a lot of fun, as fun as a powder day. Test a spot that’s near a groomed trail just in case!
A perfect corn slope can disappear as fast as it appeared. Be prepared to move on to the next sunny slope.
Carry wax in your pocket. As slopes start to slush up you may want to apply wax rated for warmer temperatures. Apply in a criss/cross pattern to allow your skis or boards to slide a little easier. This will make a big difference, especially on the flats.
End of the day corn. If you are lucky, and have a very long lunch, you might get more corn later in the day when the slush starts to refreeze. Reverse your order and start looking for the slopes that get the first shade of the day.
And last, have fun chasing the corn!