No Snow? Not A Problem At Pine Knob Ski Resort

CLARKSTON (WWJ) - Let's face it -- it was the winter that wasn't -- and with 50 degree weather days on the horizon, the last thing you're probably thinking about is a skiing trip. But one Metro Detroit ski spot is the place to enjoy winter's last hurrah.

As WWJ's Kathryn Larson found out, if you've always wanted the slopes to yourself, there's no better time than now.

"People, when they don't see it, it's interesting, when it's not in their yards, they assume that the ski area doesn't have snow either, and that's very far from the truth. We've got plenty of snow out here," said ski instructor Floyd Soo.

Soo was given the task of teaching Larson, a Nashville-native, how to tackle the highest mountain in Oakland County: Pine Knob.

How did she do? Watch the video below to find out:

"When we get into learning how to ski, it's basically lessons on how to turn, because turning allows us to go where we want to, but more importantly it allows us to control our speed, and also to stop," he said.

Soo said it's been an unsusual year for Pine Knob. Normally they're packed, with not just snow and ice, but plenty of people. Except this season, Mother Nature's lack of snow has forced them to get creative, by making their own snow. The "fake snow" is created with a special chemical that raises its melting point.

But the warmer weather hasn't been all that bad. Since it's not really chilly, you can enjoy the outdoors in style

"A lot of us are standing out here a little bit overdressed actually. I've got two layers underneath the jacket and that's plenty right now. On those cold, wintry days, you might have five layers underneath your jacket and feel like, you know, the abominable snowman or something like that out here trying to ski. But right now, it's great, it's nice and comfortable," he said.

This Sunday, Pine Knob is holding their annual Winter Carnival. Along with lots of food and fun bikini boxer slope contests, there will be games for the kids, prizes and much more. Admission is free, plus anyone who comes dressed in a costume can get a $5 discount on lift tickets.

For more information, visit www.skipineknob.com.