Will work with resort

I was recently quoted in the Whitefish Pilot as saying "it stinks' when asked what I think of any restrictions on winter uphill hikers on the mountain.

Since I am new in town and I always try to stay positive and see all perspectives, let me first apologize for my initial gut reaction. Though I thought I was responding to a question of total restriction rather than "any restrictions' (my mistake), I nonetheless could have been more tactful.

I also would like to finish the partial quote in regard to downhill skiers being the real danger. What I said was, "It is the downhill skiers who stop over the crest of a blind hill, especially in groups, and stand there looking downhill, that are the real danger."

I just wanted to clarify that, for my own sake. Of course, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a downhill ski mountain, and downhillers are your reasons for existence. Nonetheless, as I said, it would be a shame for such a unique experience to be taken away. I (and I'm sure most of us' fully understand that some restrictions are necessary.

Restricting traffic to before and after operating hours and to a designated route would seem to minimize the risk to an acceptable level 'skiing in general is inherently risky). I would hate to see the evening hours completely restricted, however. For many hikers that is the only time that is possible.

And I would so miss those full-moon, clear-night skins up the mountain. This is indeed a special place, so thank you for giving the uphillers your consideration.

Randy Hohf is a resident of Whitefish.