Pro Tip:

If the days are still short, the freezing levels are low, and the snow is deep, go ride the south faces that you'd normally overlook and bask in the warmth of the glowing, life-giving orb around which we circulate.  Sure, the snow might be a little deeper and less settled on something north facing, but why shiver in the shade when you live in the constant dank of a maritime clime? Why not shed some layers and feel your melatonin levels rise? 

On Dec. 31, 2010, John and I had a nice time in the Crystal Mountain backcountry.  He had been there the day before and wanted to go back, so this meant that there was absolutely no trail breaking.  I think this was the first winter tour that I've done in quite a while in which there wasn't any trail breaking involved.  Weird.  This made the day feel pretty casual and easy going, which let us focus on the riding and just having fun.

Great snow, sun, and endless views; all the things that I love.  Unfortunately, I went to bed early that night to do it all again the next day, but woke up in the middle of the night with an intense stomach bug that kept me on the couch (and hugging the toilet) for the next 2 days.  Ouch.  But the memories of these turns remain.