An honest intermediate ski of ten miles is best in new snow on top of a three foot base. Since the two endpoints are The Garden in Keene Valley and South Meadows Road, (turn left at the trail sign about one mile before Adirondack Loj), two cars are recommended. if shuttling is not desired, have two groups start at each terminus and pass each other in the middle, swapping return vehicles.

From the Garden, ski in over short, rolling hills that level out quickly and then climb gradually to the ranger cabin at 3.07 miles. Snow laden John’s Brook will be on the left during the next stretch. After 3.50 miles, most of which will probably have been tracked, turn onto the red Klondike trail to Yard and Big Slide Mtn after passing the John’s Brook Lodge. If you wish to do extensive ski mountaineering from this area, contact Adirondack Loj about renting one of the cozy cabins nearby.

Climb moderate and short steep grades up the Klondike trail for two miles to the top of the notch. The Yard Mountain turnoff is passed about a mile from JBL. Now ski the better part of 3.5 miles down variable but stable gradients. You are in a beautiful white birch forest. Use the low crouch, I’ll-ski-anything style over bumpy sections. Practice telemark turns around switchbacks, jump parallel turns on the wide straight aways, and don’t forget to stop at the car.

Truly a tale for your grandchildren is to do the trip in the reverse direction. This brings a menagerie of tight, sharp turns.