Mammoth's Opening Weekend With Eddie Wall

Interview By: Jardine Hammond
Photos: Peter Morning

Mammoth’s Big Winter Kick-Off went down this past weekend and instead of taking our word for it, we asked long time Mammoth local Eddie Wall his thoughts on the shenanigans that took place.

What do you think was the best part of opening weekend?

Riding, obviously! It’s awesome because everyone is at the hill and so excited to ride because it's been months since everyone has been on snow. People are all in such a great mood and happy, it just makes it that much more fun

Anything that surprised you about the hill or the shows?

Main Park really surprised me, I can't believe how good the park is already. They already have a mini hip, a small step up, and a big cheese wedge 45 foot jump.  Also, they had about 30 rails set up, and most are new ones they just designed this summer.  I think this is the best the park has been on opening day in 10 years. As far as the shows and parties ... Mammoth always throws the best parties—getting Vestal involved is awesome, too, because they bring in great bands like Black Lips and Ra Ra Riot.

What are you most excited about this year as far as Mammoth goes?

Powder! I love exploring the mountain on a pow day, with friends or all alone, just discovering new zones, cliffs, tree rides etc ... The mountain is so big that you can never stop looking around for new terrain to ride.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Opening day in Mammoth is like a big family reunion. The snowboarding industry is like one huge family that meets up at events all over the world. Everyone comes out for opening and there are tons of pros, rookies, and industry heads from all over the place. After a long summer, it’s always so fun to see all your friends that you haven't seen for a couple months and shred and party together. It's definitely one of the most fun weekends out of the whole season.