Bigrock welcomes spring with Slush Rush activities

    MARS HILL – Some winter enthusiasts live for powder days.
    Some skiers and snowboarders crave the corn snow and sunny days that come with spring skiing.
    And then there’s the select group that was out in force at Bigrock Ski Area in Mars Hill April 3. This eclectic crowd faithfully trudges through 364 days each year to get that one exceptional day each ski season known as the Slush Rush.
    Each year, folks at Bigrock celebrate the last day of the ski season with a barbecue, crazy ski games and attempts at skimming across a specially-made 90-foot pond at the base of the mountain.
    This year’s event brought out people in bathing suits and shorts and tees despite the relatively chilly 40-degree temperature, as well as those in full ski gear. Participants went for style points by trying to traverse the waterhole backwards, on one ski, or by jumping into and/or out of the pond.
    Improvised watercraft were also the order of the day, and spectators enjoyed watching several members of the Aroostook Ski Patrol hit the water in a rescue toboggan. Others tried cafeteria trays, a ski bob (a bicycle with skis in place of the wheels), and a chairlift chair on skis.
    “Yes, I made my annual trip across the pond in my kayak,” said Bigrock Marketing Manager Mark Shea. “After two very wet and snowy – and unbelievably cold – attempts, I finally got things dialed in on the third run.
    “The Slush Rush is about welcoming warmer weather and giving thanks for the winter season just passed. I’m happy that the snow is melting, but I have to agree with several skiers and snowboarders that I’ve spoken with over the last few days: can’t wait for next year!”