The lifts have been running for six weeks and the season has been wonderful. The snow pack remains slightly less than average however the quality and frequency of the lighter, drier snow has make for great skiing. A great site for following the snowpack is the snow-pillow data from the BC Gov

The snow professionals might have a different perspective on the years snowpack. Several deaths in the BC backcountry and near death incidents in the Elk Valley have everyone sitting on edge. A deep weak layer from early season persists and the potential for big consequences is out there. For more information on the backcountry conditions visit the CAA

At Fernie Alpine Resort operations are in full swing. It looks like the token facelift will be running any day and the saddles were open yesterday. The ski school is busy and the hot dogs are flying.

If your considering coming to Fernie now is the time to book!

During the holiday season in 1996 my wife, Susan, and I decided to end our arduous travel from Calgary and permanently move to Ferne. The reason was simple–SNOW! Close to 200cm’s of white and fluffy fell over a two week period and we were consumed with living the life of playing in this snow.

This holiday season it happened again and I’m certain that the result is that a few of you will be changing your lives forever. Over 200cm’s fell in a three week period beginning the week prior to Christmas and it hasn’t stopped snowing as I write this. Holly powder!! The best day was possibly the 44cm of champaign overnight!

This year Susan I have the extra pleasure of skiing with my 4 year old, Nathan, and my 2 year old daughter, Chloe, seen in the following picture.

When Fernie is on there is no better skiing in the world. To ensure that you’ll catch one of those periods of “in your face and over your head powder” your best option is to spend a season or move here permanently.

I looking forward to many more cycles of great snow this winter. Happy New Year and hope to catch one of these great snow cycles!