Last weekend Ben Ferguson took his first snow camping trip, near his home in Central Oregon. Local resorts had all closed for the season, but there was still snow in the high country, so Crab Grab sent local flimer/photographer/guide Pete Alport along to show Ferg the ropes, and capture some memories. The point wasn’t to log hammers or film a flawless video part, the boys just wanted to find some snow, sleep under the stars, and to have an adventure. The snow was rutted frozen slush, but they made the most of it. When they got down off the mountain, exhausted, Ferg drove straight from the snow park two hours to have dinner with his parents for Mother’s Day. Solid dude.

Welcome to the Crab Grab team, Ben.

How hard is it to hike 3,000 vertical feet with an 80 pound pack full of gear?

Man, that was probably the hardest thing I’ve done all year. Pretty exhausting, but so worth it. Learning how to use crampons, an ice axe, etc. Plus, every time I’d hit those jumps it was like a 30 minute hike back up to do it again. I was beat. Ha.

What’s it like sleeping on the top of a 9000′ peak?

It’s the raddest spot I’ve ever pitched a tent. It’s just beautiful up there, watching the sunset, cooking dinner, and chilling. Good memories.

How was the snow?

It was pretty worked. Spring snow melts and refreezes every night so things were all sun cupped and challenging. We had wanted to ride a bunch of lines out there and do some turning, but it wasn’t gonna happen. And hitting those jumps was tricky with all the ruts. It was still so much fun just to roll out of your tent and be riding in May.

What are your plans for summer?

To just chill, man. This was such a great season and so busy with all the contests, travel, etc. I’m looking forward to being home in Bend. Fishing, camping, biking, going surfing, and spending some time ridding up at Hood–just kicking it.

So you’re the newest addition to the Crab Grab team, are you hyped?

Yeah, man. I’ve used the traction for a few seasons and joining the official team is pretty rad. I’ve known Preston and Dawn since I was a little kid, and I’m just hyped to be a part of what they’re doing and help out. Plus, being on a team with Stevens, Bode, Pat, Rav, and those guys is sick. I can’t wait to go shred with those dudes!

The rest of the crew is equally excited that Ferg is on the team.

“The prophecy speaks highly of this one.” – Scott Stevens

“He’s making us all self conscious about our methods.” – Bode Merrill

“Everyone is talking about how great his style is, but I know the only reason his method looks so good is because of Crab Grab.” – Pat Moore

“Sorry for not replying about a quote for Ben yesterday, I was driving and spaced it.” – Mike Rav

Watch more of Ben Ferguson boarding and check out www.crabgrab.com to make sure you’ve got traction on your stick.