Christmas Eve on the John - 12/24/25

By Greg McMillan

All you hearty New Englanders must have been on the nice list this year as Santa delivered 6-8" of Christmas pow on the Eastern Slopes this morning. This latest round of snow was medium density, allowing it to cover the more exposed stretches of the John Sherburne Ski Trail nicely. 

Abby, Kyle, and I made our way up the lower reaches of the Sherb before crossing over onto the Tuckerman Ravine Trail just below the "Sherb Rock." Winds were light and temps were moderate which made for a pleasant ascent. We anticipated higher winds so left the avalanche gear at home for the day. I'd be curious to see if any folks scored some pow turns up high.

Once at Hermit Lake Shelter we shuffled past the hut and up to the lower reaches of Hillman's Highway. I noticed a skintrack heading up the line which tempted me, however with no avy kit we decided to rip skins where the trail meets the runout and head back down. 

Conditions were better than expected! I'd call it a pow day even across the divide. A bit scratchy underneath in spots however we were early enough to score plenty of freshies. Despite the bottom two pitches being more filled in, caution is still required as I caught a shark or two on my way down. 

With more snow in the forecast before the new year, it's shaping up to be a White Christmas here in the valley. I hope you can all take a moment to sit by the fireplace and relish in the company of your loved ones; reminiscing on all the good times of this past year.

From the WMSC family to your own, we wish you all a Merry Christmas! I'll see you on the hill,

- Greg