The snow trails here are perfect for family skiing. Once you experience it, you will never want to leave.
by NEIL HUNT
Jan 6, 2024
Due to work commitments, I didn't get to ski until the end of March. While others were wrapping up their season, I was just starting mine. I heard that Wanlong would stay open until May Day, so I'm sharing the snow conditions from the end of March for anyone who might find it useful.
Upon leaving Chongli station, the shuttle bus to Cuiyunshan Resort was nearly a private ride, with just the driver and three or four passengers including myself.
I chose to stay at Cuiyunshan because I had read that it was more suitable for beginners, and the deals at Yunzhen Cuiyunshan were quite good. However, after checking in, the staff mentioned that the snow conditions at Cuiyunshan were not great anymore; indeed, the ground was visible in places. They suggested I go to Wanlong, where the conditions were reportedly better.
(I've just learned how to do C-turns and edge changes, so please be forgiving if I get anything wrong.)
Day1 3.27
Chongli was foggy, with snow and sleet at the mountaintop. I arrived at the ski resort around noon and skied on Yulong with an instructor, which felt okay. But by four o'clock, visibility at the top was getting poor, and as I descended, it got warmer, with water dripping from my helmet. The snow was sticky and somewhat slushy, but overall still skiable. I managed to learn edge changes that day and, given my limited skills, decided to skip night skiing.
Day2 3.28
A day of sandstorms and strong winds, but with plenty of sunshine. They were making snow non-stop at the base of the mountain. I got up early and initially skied Yulong and Yinlong with an instructor, which was fine. Later, I went to Changlong by myself and was met with hard, bumpy snow, which was challenging for a beginner like me. There were large icy bumps in many places, and coming down felt like fighting against the wind. I left after coming down from Changlong due to my average condition.
Oh, and by the way, beginner and intermediate instructors at Wanlong are offering a 30% discount at the end of the snow season.
Dining:
Many restaurants near Xiangxue (which seems to be the town center?) were closed, as were many ski shops. Wanlong's restaurant was operating normally, serving food during the day, and I even found my favorite tuna sandwich at Costa.
Accommodation:
The rooms at Yunzhen Jinling are really spacious, with a view of the ski slopes. The only downside is the noise from the wind at night, which could be quite disturbing. Since there were few guests, breakfast was delivered to the rooms, which was unremarkable. The hotel staff were scarce, but they delivered ice quickly when requested from the front desk, ensuring a peaceful stay.
It might not sound like the perfect ski trip, and it was indeed rushed. But I was quite happy, having learned something new and taken a break for myself. I'm looking forward to gaining more experience, improving my skills, and updating my equipment.
I'm already looking forward to the 2425 snow season, and I wish everyone a smooth end to their season.
Post by Christopher Kingsley | Apr 13, 2024














