Splitboarding Elliott's Jonas

When you grow up as a snowboarder in the valley, you run out of local riding options pretty quick unless you are willing to travel or get creative.  Wootten went clear off the deep end and started splitboarding after postholing Timberline during the Hurricane Sandy +3' dump.  Snowboarding the tallest mountain in the Shenandoah Valley became a priority goal when the conditions permit.    

Elliott's has a special place in the hearts and minds of Valley Boys.  When Wootten asked Watters "Do you want to splitboard Elliott's?" It was no surprise to hear Collin's immediate response of "Yeah, I was actually just talking about that the other day."

Lurking above the valley, Elliott, the quiet giant stands tall at 4500' above sea level.  The peak of great North Mountain can be seen from anywhere in the valley with a South Western view of the horizon.

Wootten and Watters wandered up Waterfall Hollow Trail for the intrepid splitboard ascent.

Its so nice to climb unobstructed trails vs. bushwhacking.  Saving energy is critical for big days.

Jonas hammered Elliott's East facing slopes with wind, condensing the snow into an 18" blanket of dense pow, perfect for climbing and descending.  Poles had no problem hitting bottom, but our boards floated nicely.

Bent but not broke.

After about 3 hours of steady climbing, they reached the fire road. UPUPUP to the tower they went.

When 1 run and 5 hours of climbing come together.  Totally worth it.