By Ryland Nelson
It is always good to start a new year with a fresh perspective. This year it is especially refreshing.
The 2014-15 snow season was a tough one. The toughest ever. Low snow turned into no snow on the lower mountain and we barely even made it to the end of the ski season. It did however redeem itself this season with some amazing snow conditions in December. Here is Big Bang on January 6th:
Now that we have officially begun the 2016 ski season we are off to a great start. Fernie has already surpassed last years highest recorded snowpack and have seen the snow continue to keep refreshing itself with regular snowfalls. The snowfalls haven’t been big. Just a few cm’s here and there, but enough to keep the entire mountain skiing great! That combined with consistently cool temperatures and record low crowds on the slopes has us off to a very refreshing start to the 2016 ski season. Join us!
Another refreshing change this year is the moving of “Community Appreciation Day” from early December to this coming Sunday January 10th. Local Elk Valley residents get a free ski pass. Fernie Alpine Resort will say ‘Thank You’ to local communities by offering a FREE day of skiing and riding to the residents of Fernie, Elko, Elkford, Jaffray, Sparwood and all residents living in the Elk Valley
A fundraising BBQ will be held with all proceeds going towards CARDA (Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association). A huge thank you goes out to the BBQ sponsors including: Saputo, Maple Leaf, Heinz, Campbell’s, Sysco and Engligh Bay.
Please note that Photo ID and proof of local residency (drivers license, pay stub etc.) are required to receive the lift ticket. Tickets are only valid on January 10th and snow checks will not be issued on complimentary tickets. Complimentary lift tickets are valid for residents of the Elk Valley. Cranbrook and area residents are welcome to take part in Community Appreciation Day at Kimberley Alpine Resort on December 10th.
In addition, Fernie Alpine Resort is inviting Elk Valley Residents that are brand new to the sport of skiing or snowboarding to enjoy a complimentary Telus Learn to Ski or Snowboard beginner group lesson on January 10th as part of the Community Day festivities. There will be 10 adult and 10 child spots available for a complimentary beginner group lesson, complete with lift tickets and rentals. Advance registration is required and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. Registration for the Telus Learn to Ski/Snowboard lessons can be booked at Guest Services Snow School Desk or by calling 250-423-2406
