Pre-season snowboarding by Jon Olmsted

Pre-season snowboarding is one of my favorite times of the year because it feels like shaking the dust off and rediscovering that pure joy of being on snow again. The fall is a rough time of year in the PNW, so when that snow finally comes it’s like we have finally made it out the other side. There’s something about the early season conditions, patchy snow, a few rocks poking through, the sound of my edges scraping over thin coverage, makes me feel more connected to the mountain. I like the simplicity of it, hiking short laps, tuning my balance back in, and savoring the feeling of carving those first turns after months of waiting. Expectations are low. It’s not about sending big lines or showing off. It’s about easing into the rhythm that winter brings.

At the same time, I treat preseason riding as a time to tread lightly and ride smart. With less snow and unpredictable terrain, it’s easier to get hurt or ruin your board. I never want to risk my season just because I got too eager too soon. That awareness keeps me focused and intentional. The goal is to choose safe lines, take it slow, and warm the body up for the heavier days ahead. That balance between caution and excitement makes preseason feel grounded yet full of anticipation, and that’s what makes it so fun.