Resort Review: Raw riding in Fernie, BC
Picking the transfer bus from Calgary and driving through The Great Plains eagerly awaiting to see the first mini peaks and the start of ‘the rockies’. I’m thinking I can’t wait to get to bed and get going in a resort I have shared a few happy weeks in previous years. Back, with more snowboarding experience under my belt I couldn’t wait to come back and tackle the ‘raw’ terrain that Fernie had to offer…
Glades for day! Fernie is a powder-lovers dream
Located on the ‘powder highway’ and known for it’s excessive snowfall or the ‘Fernie Factor’, it’s a place that is on the list of many powder hounds. The snow is dry, or classic ‘interior BC’ powder and the terrain is rough and ready. Small town charm, friendly locals, what’s not to like?
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Fernie is a classic rocky mountains working town, separate to the ski hill. If you are staying in Downtown Fernie, expect to get a shuttle or better known as the “FernieStoke Shuttle” to the hill. Limited accommodation is located at the hill. Upon arrival at the base (at 600m), you’ll notice Fernie Alpine Resort is towered over by a gigantic headwall - very prone to avalanches with ski patrol constantly doing analysis and bombing to keep it safe, but aesthetically adding to the drama and impressiveness of the terrain. Under the headwall is five skiable bowls and lift access to Polar Peak (at 2100m) Best place to start is Lizard Bowl. Some great mix of groomed and easy going glades.
The Downtown Fernie Charm with an impressive backdrop
FERNIE SKI AREA
With the five skiable bowls there’s plenty of variety. You’ll find that the majority of technical and steep runs occur on the Polar Peak - true alpine conditions, no trees and considerable exposure, it can sometimes be closed. However, get the chance to go up there on a clear day and you will not be disappointed. Options to take the blue that winds down the face to the left which intersects with a few blacks, or off to the right of the Polar Peak you’ll have the challange of a few double blacks.
The grading here leans towards difficult and with a bit of wind can make the runs hard packed and icy. But right conditions will be mind-blowing with good turn after good turn. This is where you get the vert!
For the more adventurous type the resort has some great inbounds hikes leading to some great glades and tree runs, try Snake Ridge in Cedar bowl (far right on a trail map) which will be a 10 minute easy bootpack. Can be steep in places and sometimes go into a compression at the bottom (I’m a fallen victim of this compression) Whatever route you take down you’ll be picked up by a cat track leading to the Haul Back T-Bar.
Fernie’s dramatic headwall from the base
Morning Glory is one tick off if you are first to it on a dump day. Bewarned it can get tracked out quickly. Alternatively on the rare occasion the headwall hike, Face Lift is open is definitely something to be experienced. It’s a 20-30 minute bootpack With avi conditions very volatile on the headwall, it’s seldomly open.
The glades of Fernie, choose tight trees or spaced out
Fernie has a terrain park made up of rails and boxes. No kickers here, however lets face it, we’re not in Fernie for the parks. There’s plenty of side hits and natural terrain to keep the practising freestyler happy too.
What I love about Fernie…
The raw, real Canadian feel, the amazing snowfall, terrain variety, buzzing town with great food spots and bars. I would even consider it uncrowded, even at weekends when the city dwellers of Calgary come down.
What I dislike about Fernie…
Hard to say really, if I’m being picky there is not much in terms of groomers to please the leisurely skier although everywhere is accessible by a groomed run. Check the grooming report at the base.
The Face Lift bootlick with Fernie in the Distance
FERNIE GALLERY
Travel to resort
Nearest international airport is Calgary and there are shuttle buses that run daily to Fernie and back. Cranbrook is a notable close town with a domestic airport.
Hidden Gems
A traverse left across the top Currie Bowl from the Whitepass Chair will bring you to Corner Pocket, a double black run involving an abseil down the other side into Lizard Bowl. Once down, you can take the run down or traverse out as much as you please to score the goods. The abseil and traverse puts a lot of people off and you can get many a good turn.
For really decent Japanese try Yamagoya Sushi. Soft Shell Crab with a cold Asahi is the one at the end of a great day.
Accommodation
I stayed at the Red Tree Lodge in Downtown. Really friendly staff and team and the bus stops right outside. 10 - 15 minute walk into the town and supermarket.
I would recommend this place for…
Powder lovers who want to ride different terrain every day.
White Pass into Timber Bowl, with an inversion
Thanks to Kate for sharing this post. If you want to learn more about Kate go give her a follow.
Sun Peaks Ski Resort Guide
Sun Peaks is the second largest ski resort in Canada, not that you would assume this from its lack of crowds and laid-back village. Formerly known as Tod Mountain, Sun Peaks continues to undergo development in and around the village with the lift infrastructure also having recent upgrades. Sun Peaks has firmly placed itself amongst the top Canadian ski resorts. The Sun Peaks trails are shared across three separate peaks with runs in total.
SUN PEAKS FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Sun Peaks for a winter season I was pleasantly surprised by the Village feel. The purpose built village, at the base of the slopes, has everything you would need at a ski resort. This felt convenient and much less aggravation then having to continually travel up and down from the mountain. The ski area itself is pretty impressive with plenty to keep you interested. The only thing really lacking from Sun Peaks is any teeth clenching terrain that could excite the more advanced skiers and snowboarders.
SUN PEAKS SKI AREA
Sun Peaks ski area has a good mixture of terrain to suit all abilities. This is part of the reason why some see Sun Peaks BC as a perfect family ski area. Split across three mountains; Mt Tod, Mt Morrisey and, Sundance Mountain, each has its own characteristics.
MT TOD
Mt Tod marks the highest point in the resort, with the highest lift the West Bowl T-Bar at 2080m. Mt Tod is home to some of the gnarlier terrain at Sun Peaks with ♦♦ Green Door leading into some pretty awesome glades. You will also find the Gil’s backcountry area at Mt Tod. The Gil’s is a dedicated sidecountry zone which can be great fun in the right conditions. The only downside to the Gil’s area is the long cat track back out. It is not all black diamond runs on Mt Tod, with the longest green also available here, 5 mile. 5 Mile is popular as it allows learners to leave the beginners area and head up to the top of the mountain. Lower Mt Tod has some fantastic groomed blue terrain, perfect for laying into those carves.
SUNDANCE MOUNTAIN
Sundance Mountain is home to some of the best intermediate runs in the resort with perfect groomers like Sundance and Sundowner. This area of the resort comes into its own with some brilliant trees for intermediates. Lone Fir West and Lone Fir Centre offer widely spaced trees on a mellow pitch. Sundance Mountain is also home to the terrain parks at Sun Peaks. There are three main parks that run underneath the Sundance chair, with the features increasing in size towards the base area.
MT MORRISEY
Mt Morrissey is sometimes neglected by visitors to Sun Peaks which is exactly why you should go there. Morrisey sits on the other side of the valley and for this reason alone some visitors cant be bothered to walk across the car park to get to it. This means Morrisey is the place to go when you want some time to yourself away from the weekend visitors. On Mt Morrissey you can find some big bumps on ♦♦In Tatters and ♦♦Static Cling or stick to the groomers that run underneath the Morrisey Express Chairlift.
SUN PEAKS SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN SUN PEAKS
Sun Peaks has two dedicated ski school areas in addition to a nursery slope for the really young starters. The carpet outside the ski school base will be the first place to take your turns before moving to the Village Platter. If you are up and running but not looking for anything too challenging, then Homesteader leading into the bottom of 5 mile is a great place to start.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN SUN PEAKS
There is intermediate terrain everywhere at Sun Peaks so just pick a lift and go. If you are wanting to stay on the groomed runs then Sundance Express, Morrissey Express and Sunburst Express chairs will all take you to perfect wide blue terrain. If you want to try your hand at some ♦ single black diamond terrain then ♦Sting could be a good place to start.
ADVANCED TERRAIN SUN PEAKS
Bowls and trees will be the places to go to ensure you are making the most of the advanced terrain at Sun Peaks. ♦♦Green Door ♦Hattrick and ♦Crystal Bowl are all good places to start. If you can deal with the slowest lift on the mountain, Burfield, then you have to check out ♦♦Freddy’s.
SUN PEAKS FREESTYLE TERRAIN
The terrain parks at Sun Peaks are all found on Sundance Mountain and effectively run underneath the Sundance Express which has its positives and negatives. Positive, it means you can scope your line from the chair and get quick laps. Negative, everyone can see you from the chair which can be off-putting if you are not a narcissist. What was nice about the freestyle terrain at Sun Peaks, is that the Park Crew regularly changed it up with new features throughout the winter.
LIFTS AT SUN PEAKS
There are seven chairlifts, three button lifts and two carpets at Sun Peaks. Recently installed Orient chairlift is a Quad chair that accesses some mellow terrain near the village. Morrisey Express Quad, Sundance Express and Sunburst Express are all fast Quad chairs with the Sunburst Express having the added benefit of a bubble! Elevation and Crystal chairlifts are both slow but over short distances so they do the job. Whereas Burfield chair is an enigma. Some people love it because it deters people from riding the runs on that side of the mountain, keeping it quiet. Other (and probably rightly so) would say it should be replaced as its 23 minute journey time is ridiculous.
SUN PEAKS SNOW RECORD
Sun Peaks receives an average snowfall of around 6m per season. In comparison to other resorts in BC this isn’t impressive (Revelstoke 14m, Shames Mountain 12m). What is impressive though is the quality of the snow with Sun Peaks receiving dry BC powder.
SUN PEAKS PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Sun Peaks season dates tend to run between a late November start and and early to mid April close. The snow quality is good throughout the season with lots of smaller snow showers rather than huge dumps. The ski lifts at Sun Peaks tend to run from 9:00 until 15:30 although the Sundance lift opens at 08:30.
SUN PEAKS LIFT TICKETS
Sun Peaks season passes cost $1200 Canadian on the early bird deal which is not bad value for the amount of terrain on offer. A daily lift pass will cost around $95 for an adult pass with multi-day discounts available.
TRAVEL TO SUN PEAKS
WHERE IS SUN PEAKS?
Sun Peaks is close to the town of Kamloops in British Columbia. Kamloops has an airport that is a 45 minute drive from the ski resort of Sun Peaks. The closest major city is Vancouver which is situated South West of Sun Peaks.
DRIVING TO SUN PEAKS
The road between Kamloops and Sun Peaks is pretty mellow by mountain road standards. Driving between Kamloops and Sun Peaks will take around 45 minutes. If you would prefer to take a shuttle, I highly recommend Mostly Mental Shuttles who I used throughout my stay at Sun Peaks.
PARKING AT SUN PEAKS
Sun Peaks has parking at the base area and at the bottom of Burfield Chair. Parking at Sun Peaks is free but overnight stays in the car park are prohibited. If you have accommodation in the village, they will have dedicated overnight parking.
HOW TO GET TO SUN PEAKS
INTERNATIONAL
To fly into Sun Peaks from outside of Canada you will need to get a connecting flight. Kamloops Airport has regular connections with the larger international airports in Vancouver and Calgary. You can also fly via Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton or Toronto into Kelowna Airport. Transfers from Kelowna will cost more as it is a further two hours from Sun Peaks.
SUN PEAKS ACCOMMODATION
The Village at Sun Peaks has lots of great hotels and lodges. During my time in Sun Peaks I spent time staying at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel, a four star hotel on the foot of the slopes. There are many accommodation options for different budgets at Sun Peaks including the Sun Peaks Hostel, and the Peaks Bed and Breakfast. Most of the accommodation is situated in the village a short walk from the slopes however the hostel is closer to the Burfield Chair.
The Sun Peaks Village is very clearly European inspired with buildings that would not look out of place in Austria or Switzerland.If you stay in the village the Main Street remains snow covered throughout winter ensuring it is possible to ski from your accommodation to the lifts.
Away from the village centre it is possible to stay in East Village. East Village consists of many private accommodation rentals, mainly self-catering condos or houses. East Village is even more convenient with the introduction of the Orion chairlift.
SUN PEAKS PROS
Sun Peaks is the second largest ski resort in Canada (over 4,000 acres) meaning there is plenty of terrain to keep you occupied.
Sun Peaks ski resort has a village feel with ski-in ski-out accommodation
Snow quality at Sun Peaks is brilliant with regular cover and top up dustings of snow.
Sun Peaks lift infrastructure is mostly modern and quick.
The Tree skiing at Sun Peaks is great with widely spaced trees around the whole mountain.
SUN PEAKS CONS
The Burfield Chairlift… please someone just rip that thing out
There is a lack of real expert terrain at Sun Peaks.
The cheaper accommodation (Sun Peaks Hostel) is a 2km walk from the village.
SUN PEAKS GALLERY
SUN PEAKS ACTIVITIES
Away from the ski lifts Sun Peaks has plenty to offer. The 30+ km of cross-country ski tracks double up as a fat-biking trail which is a fun alternative to being in the resort. The village itself has; an ice-rink, spa, outdoor pool and dog sledding in addition to a large tubing area near the village platter.
If you fancy the trip 45 minutes downhill into Kamloops, then a trip to watch the Kamloops Blazers ice-hockey team is a must. In Kamloops you will find more facilities, like large supermarkets or shopping centres that could help you during your trip.
SUN PEAKS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS SUN PEAKS GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Sun Peaks is excellent for beginners with two dedicated beginners areas and some nice long green trails. At Sun Peaks beginners can move around the whole mountain as there is green terrain accessible from most chairlifts. Beginners will enjoy 5 mile, a long run that winds its way from top to bottom of Mt Tod.
WHAT IS SUN PEAKS KNOWN FOR?
Sun Peaks is probably best known for its European style village that is perfectly placed to ensure visitors can make the most of its three mountain peaks. Sun Peaks refer to this as Sun Peaks 360 due to the 360 degrees of skiing that is possible from the village. It is also pretty call that it’s possible to ski down the Main Street in Sun Peaks to the chairlifts!
WHAT IS THE LONGEST RUN AT SUN PEAKS?
Out of the 137 trails at Sun Peaks 5-mile is the longest. Not surprisingly, this green trail is 5 miles (8km) long and can be found at the top of Mt Tod.
WHERE IN BC IS SUN PEAKS?
Sun Peaks closest major city is Kamloops a town with 83,000 residents. Sun Peaks is a 45 minute drive to the North of Kamloops down the mountain road. Sun Peaks location close to Kamloops makes a trip to see the local ice hockey team, Kamloops Blazers, popular amongst guests.
HOW BIG IS SUN PEAKS RESORT?
As the second largest skiable area Sun Peaks boundary covers 4,270 acres of skiable terrain split across three mountains; Mt Tod, Sundance Mountain, and Mt Morrisey. The layout of Sun Peaks ensures crowds (if there are any) are spread out around the resort keeping lift queues to a minimum.
DOES SUN PEAKS HAVE NIGHT SKIING?
Yes, but don’t get too excited. Night skiing at Sun Peaks is an infrequent occurrence and involves the lighting of the two green slopes at the Village Platter chairlift. There is access to the lower terrain park with small features. I would love to see Sun Peaks light up Sundance Mountain for night skiing. The terrain on that mountain is perfect and would make a great addition to night-skiing.
SUN PEAKS APRÈS SKI
In general, Sun Peaks is a quiet village but there are some decent bars if you do want to dance the night away. At the base of the slopes you will find Bottoms. Check out Bottoms for their happy hour and a Canadian staple.. Poutine. As the evening gets later Bottoms changes from restaurant feel to nightclub with regularly hosted special events and DJ sets. Morrisey’s Bar in the village hosts an open mic night which is where some of the resort locals come to share their musical talent. If open mic isn’t your thing then head out back to the Morrisey’s games room, a great way to meet other people and challenge for the pool table.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Sun Peakls ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Sun Peaks ski resort? How does Sun Peaks compare to other BC ski resorts?
SUN PEAKS SKI RESORT INFO
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Top Things To Do In and Around Jasper During Winter
The town of Jasper is conveniently located on the doorstep of the Jasper National Park. Popular in both the summer and winter, Jasper is surrounded by the peaks of the Canadian Rockies and is a pretty epic location for a winter trip. Winter in Jasper can be cold with temperatures reaching on average -14 Celsius during January and February. But wait, don’t click away! These temperatures are what makes Jasper so exciting in winter, transforming waterfalls and lakes into huge ice curtains and frozen playgrounds. Read on to learn the best winter activities in Jasper.
SKI OR SNOWBOARD AT MARMOT BASIN
Marmot Basin ski resort is just 20km south of Jasper inside the national park boundary. Known for epic views and a lack of crowds, Marmot Basin is the perfect reason to visit Jasper during the winter months. Whether an expert or beginner, Marmot Basin has you covered with a diverse range of terrain to suit everyone. Skiing and snowboarding is possible at Marmot Basin between November and May making it one of the longest ski seasons in Canada. Check out the full Marmot Basin Ski Resort Guide
ICE SKATE ON A FROZEN LAKE
Despite having two ice rinks within the town of Jasper there is nothing quite like heading outside to a natural lake. Pyramid Lake freezes over during the winter making it possible for you to grab your skates and hit the ice with the Rockies as a backdrop. A short 12 minute drive from Jasper, it is possible to do this as an evening activity after your day on the slopes.
VISIT DURING JANUARY
January in Jasper is special and plays host to a local celebration. The Jasper in January Festival consists of a number of activities and events that highlight the best parts of this alpine town. Visiting during the festival is popular as there are often a number of discounts available on lodging and activities. The festival all culminates with a big street party and fireworks in the town.
I was lucky enough to spend a winter in Jasper and this event helped me meet many locals that I then connected with throughout my time in the town.
ADMIRE THE LOCAL WILDLIFE
Jasper is home to a number of wild inhabitants that roam the popular town throughout the winter. It is not uncommon to see deer or elk in the centre of town or grazing as you make your way to Marmot Basin. Canada’s wildlife is magnificent but should be respected. As with all wild animals ensure you give them their space and your respect.
HIT THE ICE
Jasper has its own curling club meaning it is possible to get involved and play this awesome sport for yourself. Curling consists of two teams who slide rocks along the ice aiming to be closest to the centre of the target. The Jasper Curling club was really welcoming and even gave us a quick demonstration before we started our game.
WALK THROUGH A FROZEN CANYON
The Maligne Canyon ice walk is a perfect winter activity. A mere 10 minute drive from downtown Jasper, the opportunity to walk through a frozen canyon can not be missed. Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in the Jasper National Park and offers visitors the chance to head further down through the limestone rocks until you are surrounded by walls of ice. Guided trips are available to Maligne Canyon and it is recommended that your wear spikes or appropriate footwear.
DRIVE ONE OF THE WORLDS MOST SCENIC ROADS
Ok, so maybe this one is cheating just a little bit because you kind of have to do it to reach Jasper but oh my what a journey! The Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper is consistently voted amongst the most scenic roads in the world. With plenty to see along the way, including the impressive Athabasca Glacier, this is a journey you won’t forget in a hurry!
WHAT DID I MISS?
Well, that is my list of the best winter activities in Jasper but what did I miss? Do you have a favourite Jasper bar? Did the Jasper Cinema deserve a place on the list? Let me know below in the comments
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Marmot Basin Ski Resort Guide
Marmot Basin near the town of Jasper in Alberta, is a ski resort inside the beautiful Jasper National Park. The area surrounding Marmot is filled with great views and landscapes that you won’t tire off. Much quieter than the resorts of Banff, Marmot Basin is a weekend ski destination for the locals in Edmonton. This means Monday- Friday you can feel alone at Marmot and that is not a bad thing. The lack of crowds can mean that fresh tracks can last for a couple of days following new snowfall, especially if you are prepared to hike for it.
MARMOT BASIN FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Having spent my first winter season at Marmot Basin it feels like a home from home for me. Arriving into the town of Jasper the locals were incredibly welcoming and I enjoyed my stay there. The Jasper in January celebrations were great as the whole town comes out. If you can plan your trip for this period I would recommend it. You will also receive discounts on lift tickets and lodging during this time. It is noticeable how cold it can be skiing or snowboarding at Marmot Basin and during January the lifts were shut for a few days due to the low temperatures. Come prepared, be sensible and you will have an awesome time.
MARMOT BASIN SKI AREA
Marmot has one of the highest base areas in Canada at 1698m. This helps not only maintain a high quality of snow but also ensures a longer season(November- May). With over 900m of vertical drop and 91 runs, including the new Tres Hombres area, Marmot is big enough to keep everyone happy.
The terrain is varied at Marmot with mellow beginner terrain accessible from the top of Eagle Ridge and the Canadian Rockies Express chairs meaning that first timers can still explore the mountain. For those wanting more challenge head to Eagles East which has lots of great double black diamond terrain. Hikes to Cornice and Peak Run are both well worth the effort and the views from the top breathtaking.
From a personal stand point, this was a fantastic resort for teaching at with a split of runs fairly even between beginner, intermediate and advanced trails. As a result, Marmot is therefore a fantastic place to learn or progress your riding. Marmot has two terrain parks, a beginner park with small rail and box features and a main park with a progression to larger jumps and rails.
Marmot Basin has 7 chairlifts with the Canadian Rockies Express being the fastest lift taking you from the base area. The Knob chair is slower but accesses some of the best terrain on the mountain so is well worth waiting for. The beginners slope School House has its own chair making sure life easy for never evers.
MARMOT BASIN SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN MARMOT BASIN
Marmot Basin is a fantastic resort to learn at. The Marmot Basin Ski School has two dedicated areas for beginners lessons. The Magic Carpet, next to the ski school base, and the School House Chair, a dedicated area with a few green trails; School House, Tranquilizer and Home Run. One real advantage of learning to ski and snowboard at Marmot Basin is that green terrain can be accessed even at the highest points of the mountain. This means that as a beginner you are not restricted to one area and can explore the who hill. Basin Run from the top of the Canadian Rockies Express Chair is a must for beginners.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN MARMOT BASIN
Marmot has plenty to offer intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Some nice groomed blue trails are available from the top of the Canadian Rockies Express Chair, whereas there are plenty of nice single black diamonds to progress onto. Highway 16 and Show Off are fantastic groomers when the conditions are right with lots of fun to be found of the Knob Chair and in the Bowls after fresh snow.
ADVANCED TERRAIN MARMOT BASIN
There is some really good advanced terrain at Marmot Basin. Eagles East was certainly an area I loved with a number of really interesting routes back down to the Eagle Express Quad. The top of Eagles East essentially is a ridge where you can drop in where you fancy. The glades in this area are also really fun. If you don’t mind a hike, then a trip to Cornice and the Marmot Peak are well worth the effort. The recently opened Tres Hombres area and Caribou Knoll are great places to go in search of freshies.
MARMOT BASIN FREESTYLE TERRAIN
Marmot Basin has two terrain parks. There is a mini rail park at mid mountain, which has a mixture of small rails and boxes that are mostly ride on. The main terrain park is near the base of the resort and has various lines to follow. The large terrain park is normally laid out with a medium to large jump line and other combinations of rails and boxes.
LIFTS AT MARMOT BASIN
Marmot basin has six chair lifts and a magic carpet. The lift infrastructure at Marmot Basin is a mixture of old and new, with the Canadian Rockies Express being the premium lift. The Canadian Rockies Express transports skiers and snowboarders from the base to the second highest lift accessed point in 8 minutes. The Eagle Express, Paradise and Eagle Ridge Chairs are all Quads with the Knob Chair being a slow double.
MARMOT BASIN SNOW RECORD
Marmot basin’s snow record isn’t anything to rave about with on average only 3m of the fresh stuff falling each winter. What makes Marmot stand out is its location, guaranteeing cold conditions and good quality snow and also low footfall. Marmot can feel like a mountain you have to yourself Mon-Fri which equates to less competition for first tracks.
MARMOT BASIN PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Marmot Basin has a long season lasting between November and May. The conditions at Marmot are particularly cold, especially throughout January and February.
MARMOT BASIN LIFT TICKETS
For up to date information on the Marmot Basin lift passes follow this link.
TRAVEL TO MARMOT BASIN
WHERE IS MARMOT BASIN?
Marmot Basin is located near the town of Jasper in the Jasper National Park. Getting to Marmot isn’t a short journey but the Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic roads to drive down. You will not regret the commute.
DRIVING TO MARMOT BASIN
Driving to Marmot is an experience in itself. The Icefields Parkway has been voted amongst the top 10 scenic drives in the world. The road from Lake Louise to Jasper certainly makes it worth the effort of driving past the Banff resorts.
As Marmot Basin is located within the boundary of Jasper National Park you will need to pay to enter the park.
PARKING AT MARMOT BASIN
Marmot Basin has 4 parking lots on the hill which is free and on a first come first served basis. The layout of Marmot allows you to ski back to your car throughout the day if necessary to pick up that extra layer or maybe some snacks!
HOW TO GET TO MARMOT BASIN
INTERNATIONAL
The closest international airports to Jasper at Edmonton (229m) and Calgary (251m). Coming from Europe there are more likely to be affordable flights into Calgary.
From both Calgary and Edmonton tour operators offer transfers to Jasper. I used SUNDOG
MARMOT BASIN ACCOMMODATION
There is no in resort accommodation at Marmot Basin with the majority of guests staying in nearby Jasper. Personally I stayed at the Whistlers Inn which had the benefit of a rooftop hot tub with mountain views. In Jasper you will find everything from hostels to luxury lodge style accommodation.
MARMOT BASIN PROS
Marmot Basin is a quiet ski resorts where you will rarely see crowds. I spent a season riding at Marmot and barely remember a lift line.
Marmot Basin is perfect for beginners who can explore the whole mountain on green terrain
Marmot Basin’s Eagles East area offers plenty of ungroomed terrain, chutes, drops, and glades for advanced riders to enjoy.
Marmot Basin has a longer ski season than most ski resorts.
Driving to Jasper and Marmot Basin is an experience in itself.
MARMOT BASIN CONS
Marmot Basin gets incredibly cold in January. Make sure to ride with a friend and watch out for frost nip.
With no on site accommodation at Marmot Basin you will need to commute from Jasper on a daily basis. Marmot Basin shuttles are available on a regular schedule and car parking is available at the resort.
MARMOT BASIN GALLERY
MARMOT BASIN ACTIVITIES
Activities at Marmot Basin will all happen away from the resort and back in or around Jasper. Walking in Maligne Canyon is an awesome winter experience. The Ice Walk at Maligne Canyon takes you deep into the canyon surrounded by tall walls of ice. A similarly epic winter experience is ice skating on Pyramid Lake. There are two ice-rinks available in Jasper itself, but what is more Canadian then heading to a frozen lake for a skate. Back in the town there is a cinema, curling, and a number of bars / pubs to while away the evening hours.
MARMOT BASIN FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS MARMOT BASIN GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Marmot Basin is an excellent ski resort for beginners to visit. The dedicated learning area at School House offers the perfect gradient to perfect those turns. The real benefit of learning at Marmot is the ability to ski from the top of the mountain via green trails. This means that once beginners are feeling confident they can explore the whole hill.
IS MARMOT BASIN A MOUNTAIN?
Marmot Basin ski area is located across four mountain faces. There is 3000ft of vertical drop at Marmot Basin with the highest point being 8,570ft (2,612m)
HOW FAR IS MARMOT BASIN FROM JASPER?
Marmot Basin ski resort is a 20km drive South of the town of Jasper, AB. There are a number of daily shuttles that run between Jasper and Marmot Basin.
WHAT TIME DO THE LIFTS RUN AT MARMOT BASIN?
9:00 - 16:00 with the exception of School House chair which runs until 16:30.
DO YOU NEED A PARK PASS TO GO TO MARMOT BASIN?
Yes, Marmot Basin is within the Jasper National Park so you will need a valid park pass if you are driving to Marmot Basin.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Marmot Basin ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Marmot Basin ski resort? What were your opinions? Which is your favourite Alberta ski area?
MARMOT BASIN SKI RESORT INFO
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Killington Ski Resort Guide
Aptly named the ‘Beast of the East’, Killington ski resort is spread across 7 mountain areas. One area, Killington Peak reaches 4,241 ft making it the second highest point in the state. This all alludes to the fact that Killington has masses of terrain which will keep the family happy not just all week, but all season. New England’s largest ski resort, Killington, also opens earlier and closes later than all other East Coast ski resorts.
KILLINGTON FIRST IMPRESSIONS
One of my first experiences at Killington was sitting on the Snowshed Express Quad whilst it had broken down, luckily this was the only set back to my trip. Killington impressed as a resort, with extensive infrastructure, good grooming and a really good ski school. Killington is renowned for is après ski and nightlife which make the area around the base lively.
KILLINGTON SKI AREA
If you are looking for more terrain than any other East Coast ski area, well Bingo, Killington is that mountain. Looking at the stats Killington ski area is huge. Spread across 7 peaks, with Killington Peak (1293m) the highest point, there is 929m of vertical drop. A Killington lift pass allows skiing and snowboarding at both Killington and Pico Mountains. Combined these ski areas offer 1,977 acres of skiable terrain across 213 trails. There are 155 trails at Killington resort with the majority being either intermediate (40%) or advanced (43% terrain).
Killington is located just seven miles from Pico Mountain, a locals favourite, which is included with your Killington lift tickets.
KILLINGTON SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN KILLINGTON
There are two obvious learning zones at Killington; Sunrise Mountain and Snowshed. Snowshed has two lifts; Snowshed Express Quad and Snowshed Double, that access a few green slopes. Snowshed slope is wide but can become busy during peak times. The area at Sunrise mountain is serviced by the Sunrise Village Triple Chair. This area has a few gentle greens that lead back to the chair.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN KILLINGTON
From Killington Peak, intermediates will love taking the long Solitude blue run around the boundary of Killington ski resort. There are plenty of blues at Skye Peak and also on Snowdon Mountain that will keep intermediates interested. If you feel the need to push yourself further, my first black diamond was Superstar.
ADVANCED TERRAIN KILLINGTON
Killington has plenty to offer challenge to the advanced skiers and snowboarders who visit the 7 peaks. The glades at Devil’s Den and Growler on Bear Mountain offer plenty of fun. Killington Peak comes into its own with some aptly named Double Blacks; Flume, Double Dipper and Flume.
FREESTYLE TERRAIN KILLINGTON
Killington ski area has partnered with Woodward to produce some of the best freestyle terrain on the East Coast. The Stash offers features made out of natural materials, whereas Bear Mountain is also home to the Half-Pipe. Ramshead Mountain is where you will find the majority of freestyle terrain with everything from the Family Cross adventure zone to the Olympic Athlete (Red Gerard) inspired Red’s Backyard.
LIFTS AT KILLINGTON
Killington has an excellent lift infrastructure with 21 lifts in total. Three gondolas cover the largest journeys in the resort, with the K-1 Express heading up to Killington Peak and accessing some of the double black diamond terrain. Furthermore, there is a collection of Quads, Triples, Doubles, and even a six person chair.
KILLINGTON SNOW RECORD
Despite being on the East Coast of the USA, often known for having more ice then fresh snow, Killington averages 250 inches of snowfall every winter. Thats 6.35m of natural snowfall, more than resorts like Verbier in Europe. Further to the natural stuff, Killington has extensive snowmaking that ensures the 250 snow guns can blast out 12 inches of snow in a 24 hour period. If you are looking to visit Killington when the conditions are at their best, the most snow tends to fall in February and March with 55in and 57in averages respectively.
KILLINGTON PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Killington not only has one of the longest ski seasons on the East Coast but one of the longest in the whole of North America. Killington will open, snow dependent, in late October or early November and run well into May. Some really good snow years have ensured the lifts have been able to turn on Superstar into June.
KILLINGTON LIFT TICKETS
Killington charge $165 for a daily ticket if bought at full-price on the day. Luckily for all of us reading this, we are not that silly and like to plan a little in advance. Advanced tickets will always get you the lowest price and further discounts are available when purchasing a multi-day ticket.
An adult season pass will set you back $1479 but again booking early could save you over $400! You can also ski and ride at Killington and nearby Pico mountain on the IKON Pass with 7 days access.
TRAVEL TO KILLINGTON
WHERE IS KILLINGTON?
Killngton ski resort has been popular with the weekend crowds travelling up from New York or Boston a 4/5 or 3 hour drive respectively. Killington’s location in the South of Vermont has made it a mainstay of the two cities with substantial visitors making use of the good transport links.
DRIVING TO KILLINGTON
Killington is ideally located close to both I-89 and I-91.
PARKING AT KILLINGTON
Killington has three base areas at which is possible to park; K-1 Lodge, Snowshed Lodge and Ramshead Lodge. All of the base areas offer free-parking so choose the one that best suits your needs. For all relevant parking information check here.
INTERNATIONAL
International visitors will most likely arrive into either New York or Boston and then need to make their way to Killington. Car rental is advised as Greyhound or Megabus journeys are long!
KILLINGTON PROS
Killington has more terrain than other East Coast Ski Resorts
Killington ski area is spread out across 7 peaks so you can find a space away from the crowds.
Killington has good lift infrastructure
Killington gets a decent amount of natural snowfall, over 6m!
Killington ski resort lift tickets also allow access at nearby Pico Mountain Resort.
The freestyle terrain at Killington is quality!
KILLINGTON CONS
$165 for a Killington day ticket seems steep!
The East Coast can serve up some icy and cold conditions.
Killington ski area is a good 3/4 hour drive from international airports!
KILLINGTON GALLERY
KILLINGTON FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS KILLINGTON A GOOD SKI RESORT?
Killington has terrain to suit all abilities making it a great option for everyone. As a large ski resort Killington has lots to offer both on and off the snow with a renowned Après scene. East Coast resorts can get icy but Killington has a better snow record than other East Coast ski resorts. The infrastructure at Killington, including the snow-making is modern and can help during lean periods without snowfall.
IS KILLINGTON GOOD FOR BEGINNERS?
My first ever week skiing was at Killington and I had a great time. With no prior experience I started in the designated beginners area at Snowshed but soon progressed across the whole mountain. With a number of lifts that just service the beginners terrain and some magic carpets, beginners have plenty to get them started. My experience of the ski school at Killngton was very positive.
CAN YOU SKI FROM KILLINGTON TO PICO?
There are no interconnecting trails between Killington and Pico. You can however take a shuttle or self-drive between the two resorts.
IS KILLINGTON GOOD FOR KIDS?
Killington ski resort has plenty to offer away from the trails. Obviously, skiing and snowboarding is the main reason to visit but if your kids fancy a break why not head to the tubing park? There is also dogsledding, ice-skating and a cinema to keep the family occupied.
IS KILLINGTON ON THE IKON PASS?
At Killington you receive 7 days of skiing with an IKON PASS. These days are shared between Killington and Pico mountains.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Killington ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Killington ski resort? What were your opinions? Are there better ski resorts on the East Coast?
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RELATED KILLINGTON POSTS
A Guide To Snowboarding In Canada
Snowboarding in Canada has everything from wild mountain ranges to small local ski hills. British Columbia offers opportunities to ride some thigh burning terrain in some of the best powder conditions on the planet! Head across the border into Alberta and you will find colder temps and longer seasons set amongst the incredible back drop of the Rockies. Further East Ontario plays host to Blue Mountain the playground of Toronto and Quebec has the charming resort of Mont Tremblant. Whatever you are searching for, Canada has you covered with; amazing scenery, friendly hospitality and insane snowfall that combine for an epic ski trip.
Photo Credit @ameliasp8
Snowboarding in Canada is world renowned with many international guests heading back year on year. Why? Well it could be the beautiful mountain landscapes or the world class facilities at major Canadian ski resorts. Maybe it is the tree skiing that seems endless amongst the numerous towering evergreens. For me, it boils down to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by locals and the quiet resorts away from the crowds. Snowboarding in Canada can be glitz and glam but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of resorts where with the insane amounts of snowfall is beggars belief that there are no lift lines!
CANADIAN SKI RESORTS IN BC
British Columbia is home to some of Canada’s best in resort and backcountry skiing and of course Canada’s largest ski resort Whistler Blackcomb. Whistler is Canadas most popular resort with more guests than any other mountain. The terrain at Whistler has it all and Whistler’s proximity to Vancouver is a leading factor in what makes Whistler ski resort so popular.
Known for the Powder Highway, interior BC is home to some serious freeride resorts; Kicking Horse, Panorama, Revelstoke, Red Mountain, Fernie and Whitewater. The only thing more legendary than the terrain at these resorts is the snow record. The snowfall in this area of BC is a major contributor to why there are so many successful cat-skiing and heli-skiing operators. The most famous of which is probably Baldface Lodge, host to the Supernatural snowboard competition.
Big White, Sun Peaks, Silverstar and Kimberley ski resorts make up the remainder of BC’s offering. These resorts, although less extreme than the other mentioned should not be overlooked. There is great terrain at each of these resorts, especially if you love tree skiing.
Photo Credit @themcny
CANADIAN ALBERTA SKI RESORTS
If you can brave the colder temperatures a trip into Alberta will not disappoint. The most popular resorts in Alberta are situated in the town of Banff and form the Ski Big 3. Sunshine Village, Lake Louise and Mt Norquay all offer something a little different. Norquay is often spoken of as a first day of your holiday ski resort, go to Norquay to rediscover your ski legs. Lake Louise is probably the most scenic ski resort in Canada. A modern ski area with fantastic facilities, Lake Louise is situated a 45minute drive outside of Banff. Mostly an intermediate mountain you may wish to head to Sunshine Village to get your thrills. The final offering of the Ski Big 3 in Banff is Sunshine Village. Sunshine is home to Delerium Dive, a dedicated off-piste area with steeps and drops.
Leaving Banff and heading along the Icefields Parkway, one of the worlds most scenic drives, you will come across Marmot Basin. A bit of a secret and weekend playground for the people of Edmonton. If you hit Marmot ski resort during the week it is likely that you will have the lifts to yourself. Castle Mountain is another ski resort in Alberta worth considering visiting. Castle Mountain is home to an inbounds cat skiing operation.
View from Marmot Basin
CANADIAN ONTARIO AND QUEBEC SKI RESORTS
Similar to the East Coast of the USA, Canada’s East Coast is home to ski resorts for the brave. Cold conditions and less snowfall mean that it’s easy to forget about the resorts of Ontario and Quebec. Mont Tremblant and Blue Mountain have good reputations but it is hard to justify heading to the East Coast with what is on offer out West. If you were to venture East Mont Tremblant ski resort is unique with its bright buildings, Quebecoise architecture cobbled walkways. The village at Mt Tremblant does put everything within easy reach and proves popular amongst East-Coasters.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN CAN YOU SNOWBOARD IN CANADA?
The majority of Canadian ski areas run their winter operations between November through to April. Some resorts like Marmot Basin in Alberta have longer seasons into May. Most years it is possible to ski on the glacier at Whistler Blackcomb through the summer in June and July!
WHAT IS THE BEST SNOWBOARDING RESORT IN CANADA?
Very much an opinion orientated question but here it goes. Whistler is consistently voted as being the best resort in Canada. I can see why with its facilities and terrain, but with that you also get expense and lift queues. Canada is privileged in that it has a number of incredible ski resorts without the reputation that Whistler has. For me, this potentially leads to a better resort experience.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SNOWBOARD IN CANADA?
Very much a variable answer depending on where you ski but lets take a simplified look at lift tickets. If you take the daily lift ticket price at the following popular Canadian ski resorts and average the prices the cost of a days skiing in Canada is CAD$104.67
Big White ( CAD$89), Blue Mountain ( CAD$63). Fernie ( CAD$134), Kicking Horse ( CAD$124), Red Mountain ( CAD$118), Sun Peaks ( CAD$105), Whitewater ( CAD$99.75)
CANADA SKI RESORT SNOW RECORD
Canadian ski areas get copious amounts of snow throughout the winter season. The Powder highway resorts of Whitewater, Revelstoke and Fernie receive an average of over 9m of snow each! Much more than this the powder that falls in this area is dry and fluffy meaning every flake should be savoured. On the coast of BC, Whistler receives the most snow with over 10m of average snowfall. Being on the coast, the snow can occasionally be heavy. In contrast Mont Tremblant on the East Coast receives just under 4m of average snowfall per winter.
WHY SNOWBOARD IN CANADA
Well if those snow record statistics didn’t entice you into a Canadian ski trip I am not sure what else will. For me a trip to Canada is all about the laid back resort towns, no lift lines and fantastic tree skiing.
MULTI RESORT PASSES CANADA
Unless you have been buried under a rock for the past few years, you will have heard of both the Ikon and the Epic Pass. There is some debate over whether these season passes are a good or bad thing for the ski industry in North America.
From a selfish standpoint I used the Epic pass for a season that allowed me to ski in the US, Japan, Europe and i’d planned a Australia trip (before Covid curtailed that idea). That is well… pretty Epic. To be able to ski across a number of resorts in different countries and continents is a unique. The Epic and Ikon are great for being able to access a number of resorts at what I deem to be a pretty reasonable price.
Sadly, these passes also come with a large downside. Crowds. The Epic and Ikon passes have encouraged more people to purchase season passes and have raised the profile of a number of resorts. The increased profile and accessibility has led to crowds, especially at peak holiday periods or weekends.
Although many locals view Epic or Ikon as a negative, potentially bringing more crowds to the resort, these passes have also led to a huge effort to increase the quality of infrastructure. Many resorts on the passes have received upgrades to their lift system and lodges which leads to a greater overall experience.
There are a number of other combined ski passes in North America such as the Mountain Collective or Indy Pass. These tend to offer a few days skiing or snowboarding across their member resorts.
In Canada you can receive unlimited skiing or snowboard at Whistler (EPIC PASS) and Blue Mountain/MT Tremblant (IKON PASS) but other lift pass privileges are restricted to limited days.
Epic Pass allows limited access to the following Canadian ski resorts; Fernie, Kicking Horse, Kimberley, Mont Sainte Anne, Nakiska, and Stoneham.
Ikon Pass allows limited access to the following Canadian ski resorts; Revelstoke, Red Mountain Resort, and Cypress Mountain.
THE CANADIAN SKI SEASON
The ski season in the Canada runs very similar to the operating durations in Europe. Most Canadian ski resorts operate between November and April with limited operations in May. Summer operations in Canada are restricted to the glacier at Whistler Blackcomber ski resort, BC.
RESORT REVIEWS
CANADA GALLERY
CANADA VIDEOS
COST OF A CANADIAN SNOWBOARD TRIP
From a European perspective a snowboard trip to Canada makes more financial sense than a trip to the USA.In terms of flight prices you will find similar deals to the major international airports. Once in country a lot of the expenses are similar but Canadian ski resorts tend to have cheaper lift tickets than their American counterparts. The difference between a day ticket at Sun Peaks and Killington equates to £23 per day, now that is money you could be spending in the bar!
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Northstar Ski Resort Guide
Northstar Ski Resort has everything you would expect from a destination ski area. Located north of Lake Tahoe in California, the Northstar ski area is owned by Vail resorts, therefore, is accessible using the Epic Pass. The resort and village are upmarket with a plethora of facilities to keep all the family entertained. Whether it is laps of the terrain park or the ice rink, Northstar California is guaranteed to be perfect for your family ski trip.
NORTHSTAR FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Arriving at Northstar and parking in one of the free car parks, you are transported to the village via a free shuttle bus. One thing of note was the driver spoke over a speaker, detailing what terrain was open and the forecast for that day and week. I thought that was a nice touch and something I have not noticed when visiting other ski areas.
When in the village you can see that the set-up at Northstar is first class. The village is clean and well-maintained, with a number of obvious facilities; ski rentals, shops, cafes, and the gondola. The gondola takes you from the village to the base of the Vista Express and the Tahoe Zephyr Express. Although you can ski back down to the village and the gondola base, the majority of the skiing is found above these two lifts.
Riding the Vista Express you get a pretty decent overview of the freestyle terrain managed by Northstar Park and Pipe crew. My last impression is just how much terrain is dedicated to the terrain parks at Northstar. This is a real USP for Northstar with features to suit skiers and snowboarders who are beginners all the way through to expert freestyle riders.
NORTHSTAR SKI AREA
Northstar ski resort is pretty big with nearly 100 runs, although its vertical drop of 695m can be considered fairly modest. There is nothing particularly gnarly at Northstar ski resort, which I think is why they have focussed on terrain parks to draw the advanced crowd.
There are three areas to the Northstar California ski resort; Mt Pluto, Backside, Lookout Mountain
MT PLUTO
Mt Pluto is accessible from the village Gondola and is where you will find the beginner trails in addition to the blue trails and terrain parks. The beginner trails, lead back to the village which is a nice way to end the day. The blue trails on Mt Pluto are groomed wide pistes, perfect for skiers and snowboarders who are ready to explore more of the mountain. You will also find the terrain parks on Mt Pluto. This is Northstar Resort’s main selling point. There are nine parks, including the pipe and being home to Burtons, The Stash. The stash is a terrain park made out of natural features, such as tree rides.
BACKSIDE
The backside is where you will find the majority of Northstars steeper terrain. There are some nice glades on the backside which make for some interesting tree skiing but nothing in comparison to Heavenly. The runs, as with all of Northstar, are pisted and well-maintained. Some may argue that some terrain on the Backside of Northstar should be left ungroomed.
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN
Lookout Mountain similar to The Backside has mostly single black diamond terrain serviced by one chairlift, the Martis Camp Express. The chair is named after Martis Camp a member-only lodge that sits adjacent to the lifts. One long blue, Washoe, also runs down to the base of Lookout Mountain.
With less skiable terrain than nearby Epic Pass partner Heavenly, Northstar has had to flex to secure the advanced ability guests. With little in the way of natural features for this crowd, Northstar Park and Pipe set up has been given the run of Mt Pluto with nine terrain parks to really draw the freestyle crowd. Given the success of events such as slopestyle at the recent winter Olympics, this is a shrewd move.
NORTHSTAR SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN NORTHSTAR
There are a handful of beginner runs at Northstar with the majority close to the gondola and the village. Village run, a mellow green, is a nice way to end the day by riding back into the main village. There is enough to keep never evers interested whilst learning their first turns, and a returning beginner will be excited by the amount of blue terrain they could progress onto.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN NORTHSTAR
Northstar can be considered an intermediates mountain. There are so many nice pisted runs across the whole mountain. The terrain on Mt Pluto is mostly blue with the odd single black diamond thrown in. Both the backside and Lookout Mountain have plenty of single black diamond runs with some interesting tree skiing to be found.
ADVANCED TERRAIN NORTHSTAR
Northstar has some interesting riding on the Backside of the resort. Here you can find some of the steeper groomers as well as some decent tree-skiing. If you catch the conditions right, these trees can be a lot of fun. The terrain parks at Northstar Ski Resort cater for advanced skiers and snowboarders with some pretty hefty features. The halfpipe sits in a prominent position near the Vista chair and there are a number of large kickers and rail features. No wonder Northstar Park and Pipe is so popular.
LIFTS AT NORTHSTAR
Northstar ski resorts lift system is modern and efficient. Really nothing else should be expected from a resort that charges $200+ for a day ticket. The lifts are quick and include two gondolas and 7 express chair lifts.
NORTHSTAR SNOW RECORD
Northstar is blessed with an average of 9m of snowfall per season! When you throw in the number of sunny days that Californian ski resorts tend to receive then that makes for a winning combination. There is also extensive snow-making at Northstar which is fantastic for the resort if there is a lean winter.
NORTHSTAR PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
Due to the plentiful snow record and the substantive snowmaking at Northstar, the season is able to run from around mid-November through to the end of April.
NORTHSTAR LIFT TICKETS
Ok, so this is not a typo. A day ticket at Northstar is around $209! That’s extortionate. Luckily, early booking, online booking and multi-day discounts can be applied to that. When you consider that buying a Tahoe Local Pass via Epic Pass can be done for under $500, it is nonsensical to purchase a day pass at Northstar. Plan ahead to make the most of your trip to Northstar.
NORTHSTAR VIDEOS
TRAVEL TO NORTHSTAR
WHERE IS NORTHSTAR?
Northstar ski resort in California is North of Lake Tahoe just 4 miles from Truckee Airport. You can access Truckee for International airports, with San Francisco being a popular connection point. Similarly, Reno International airport is a short 40-minute drive from Northstar so offers a great access point.
DRIVING TO NORTHSTAR
Due to the amount of snow that falls around Tahoe it is sensible to keep an eye on the road information. You can find your latest travel information here and cameras here.
PARKING AT NORTHSTAR
Parking at Northstar is free at the Village View and Castle Peak car parks. The Village View car park is closer to the village and therefore the gondola. Castle Peak car park is closer to the main road as you enter Northstar ski area. Both car parks are serviced by free shuttle buses that take you to the village.
Paid parking is available in the village which is adjacent to the gondola. The cost is $20 during the week or $40 on the weekends.
HOW TO GET TO NORTHSTAR
INTERNATIONAL
If like me you are arriving from outside North America then you will probably find it cheaper and easier to fly into San Francisco International Airport. From San Francisco, you can continue your journey by either taking an internal flight to Reno or take the 3-hour drive to South Lake Tahoe straight from San Francisco. It is also possible to fly into Sacramento and but you will have to connect via another US airport.
DOMESTIC
An internal flight to Reno or Truckee Airports will bring you to your closest access point to the Northstar ski resort. Reno offers a more regular schedule but is further away from Northstar.
NORTHSTAR ACCOMMODATION
Northstar has its own village at the base. This is an ideal place to stay if you want to have all the convenience of a resort ski holiday. More affordable accommodation can be found nearby in Truckee or close to Kings Beach North Lake Tahoe.
NORTHSTAR PROS
The terrain park set up at Northstar is insane. There is a whole side of the mountain dedicated to freestyle with features to suit all abilities. This is a real draw as to why people would visit Northstar.
The Village at Northstar is purpose-built, with everything you would need to make the most of your ski trip to Lake Tahoe.
Northstar would be a great choice of ski resort for a family ski trip. There is a really calm vibe, without the wild apres scene. The Northstar ice rink is just one of the potential evening activities for children and adults.
There is a fast lift system at Northstar. The Vista Express chair accesses the freestyle terrain and guarantees a quick lap. The Northstar gondola from the village is an efficient way to reach the main ski area.
Cruising blues? Intermediates will appreciate the nice wide pistes at Northstar. There are a number of single black diamond runs that will allow intermediates to progress further.
Contentious, but the Epic Pass makes Northstar affordable as a day visitor. I visited as day trips from my base in South Lake Tahoe. This meant more affordable lodging, and lift pass already included with Heavenly and Kirkwood on the Epic Pass.
NORTHSTAR CONS
Northstar is pricey. A stay in the village will hurt your wallet. Everything at Northstar is expensive. Whether it is lodging or lift tickets, food or facilities, you can be sure to spend a buck or two.
Northstar is fantastic and has a great reputation. Sadly this means crowds during peak weeks and weekends.
Northstar is missing the really gnarly terrain. It has a good area for tree skiing on the backside, but nothing to really get the heart pumping.
NORTHSTAR GALLERY
NORTHSTAR ACTIVITIES
The centrepiece of Northstar village is the ice rink. Within a stone’s throw of the slopes, it is possible to swap your ski boots for ice skates. Popular with families. the ice rink is surrounded by tables where those who would prefer to sit and watch with an apres pint may feel more comfortable. There are a number of fit pits to keep you warm as your family and friends skate the night away.
The Northstar Village is home to a number of shops and boutiques. At my time of visiting, there were a number of brand outlets such as; The North Face and Burton. If shopping isn’t your thing, then why not head out on a dog sled tour, go to the tubing run, or hit the cross-country ski trails.
NORTHSTAR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS NORTHSTAR GOOD FOR BEGINNERS
Northstar ski school has an excellent reputation and is a fantastic place to learn to ski or snowboard. There is nothing too steep or daunting at Northstar so beginners should feel comfortable exploring the mountain.
WHEN DOES NORTHSTAR OPEN?
Although this date will change year on year and be dependent on snow conditions, Northstar normally opens towards the end of November.
WHICH IS BETTER HEAVENLY OR NORTHSTAR?
Ultimately this comes down to opinion. Heavenly is the largest resort in Tahoe and therefore offers more terrain. If my only goal was to ride in a terrain park I would head to Northstar as their set up is insanely good. Beginners will also appreciate Northstar for the mellow terrain and less traversing around the mountain. Overall, I believe that Heavenly is a better mountain. There is more expert terrain and areas like Mott Canyon are so much fun. The Village at Northstar is more compact, whereas Heavenly has larger-scale hotel options.
IS HEAVENLY OR NORTHSTAR BETTER FOR BEGINNERS?
There is more mellow terrain at Northstar and less scary intermediate terrain. If I was learning I would choose to head to Northstar. There are a few nice dedicated beginner areas at Heavenly on both California and Nevada side. I feel that Northstar is a more navigatable mountain and this would factor into my decision making as a beginner.
WHO OWNS NORTHSTAR?
Northstar was bought by Vail Resorts for a huge $63million! This purchase brought Northstar into the Epic Pass family and means pass holders can ride for free at Heavenly, Kirkwood and a number of other US and world ski resorts.
HOW LONG ARE THE RUNS AT NORTHSTAR?
Obviously, the runs will vary in length but the longest run at Northstar is 2.6miles long. Northstar has 675m of vertical drop meaning that you can combine a number of runs from the summit of Mt Pluto to the village for a longer run.
IS NORTHSTAR GOOD FOR SNOWBOARDING?
Northstar California is a great mountain to snowboard on. The terrain parks and the widely spaced tree runs make Northstar incredibly snowboarder friendly. There are no long traverses and the mountain is serviced by a number of fast lifts.
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Northstar ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Northstar ski resort? What were your opinions? Are there better ski resorts in Lake Tahoe?
RELATED NORTHSTAR POSTS
A Guide To Snowboarding In the USA
America is a powerhouse in the ski and snowboard community and this reflected in its people. On the East Coast, you have a hardened bunch of locals passionate enough to #skitheeast although it doesn’t always offer the rewards. On the West Coast you have the lucky Californians who have it all, 12m of snowfall a season at Kirkwood, masses of terrain at Heavenly, Squaw Valley and Mammoth, a freestyle heaven at Northstar and views that take your breathe away when the cold doesn’t. The USA can be considered amongst the greatest places to ski on earth and is the birthplace of snowboarding, whats to complain about!
Getting to the USA may take longer for us Europeans, and depending on where you ski, you could pay a premium for lift passes. Despite the cost of lift passes in America I wouldn’t rule out an American ski adventure. There are ways to get value for your buck whilst skiing in America and you wont regret the outlay.
My first ever ski trip was to the US and Killington ski resort in the Vermont mountains. East Coast skiing offers a number of advantages over a trip out west. The mountains in Vermont and Maine can offer the full package at resorts like; Okamo, Stowe and Killington or you can opt for a more local feel at the family resorts of Jay Peak and Smugglers’ Notch. The East Coast resorts are known for beautiful pistes lined with trees but sometimes also known for their icy conditions. Skiing and snowboarding on the East Coast is possible from November into June with Killington offering the longest season. Although it is worth noting, that this involves largely one run remaining open on Killington late into the season. That run does happen to be Superstar my first ever Black diamond run. Another bonus to East Coast ski trips is the shorter flight time from Europe. The shorter flight time combined with cheaper flights is certainly a big pull for skiers from this side of the pond.
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding in America there is one image that sticks in my mind, Corbet’s Couloir. Although I have not been fortunate to ski Corbet’s yet, this iconic line at Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is reflective of some of the possible gnarly runs possible in the USA. Jackson Hole is not alone and there are plenty of resorts with terrain that is certain to make your heart skip a beat.
Although always popular, the last few years Colorado’s incredible terrain and reliable snow conditions have been showcased by Youtubers such as Jonathan Buckhouse and TJ from BoardArchive. Colorado is home to the world famous and slightly controversial Vail resort, which is now infamous for introducing the Epic Pass (more info to follow) and the resort of Breckenridge. Breckenridge is the resort where Ryan Knapton can be found tearing up the groomers and this is a showcase of how great the pisted terrain is at Breckenridge.
Away from Colorado you have Utah whose ski resorts of A*** and Snowbird receive some of the best snow on the continent. It is just a shame that A*** and other Utah resort D*** V***** wont let snowboarders access their slopes, lame. With that off my chest it’s important to remember that Utah is still home to the USA’s largest ski area in Park City and the incredible landscape of Brain Head.
In 2020 I was lucky enough to visit California and the resorts of Heavenly, Kirkwood and Northstar. We all know what happened to the 2020 ski season, but those early turns on the West coast were enough to sustain my lust for snow for the rest of winter. California is an incredible destination for a US ski trip with some of the best resorts in the country. Heavenly, situated in South Lake Tahoe, is a resort that spans two states. The California side has some great tree skiing, two terrain parks and one of the best views I have ever seen at a ski resort. Across the state line in Nevada, Heavenly offers a different perspective across the Nevada desert and some superb cruisey blues. Nevada is also home to Mott Canyon which I think would excite even the most hardened skiers and snowboarders. Tahoe is an exciting place to be with Squaw Valley, Sierra at Tahoe, Northstar, and Kirkwood all within driving distance of each other.
American ski trips are more than just the time you spend on show with resorts putting on a range of Apres ski activities. Using Tahoe as an example there are; casinos, snowmobile tours, ice-rink, cinema, and some great restaurants to keep you occupied after your day on snow. This should illustrate the quality of facilities on offer at American ski resorts with many being purpose built resorts with everything within walking distance of the accommodation.
Unlike European resorts, American ski resorts can be spread out with the need to drive to get your provisions but if you want everything on your doorstep this is also a possibility. The ski towns normally have a great selection of restaurants and bars, most of which will offer good deals on certain days or happy hours. It’s worth planning out where you want to eat on which day like this as it is likely to save you money.
The largest downside to a trip stateside is the abhorrent prices of lift tickets. Day passes are extortionate and America can be an expensive place to ski if only taking a one-week trip. Your best option is to make use of the multi-resort season pass options that have become quite controversial in the states. Epic and Ikon are the two major options of multi-resort ski passes with the Epic also offering some great options to ski in Europe and the Southern Hemisphere. In 2020, I used my Epic Pass to ski at the resorts of Ski Rama Dolomiti, Italy, The 3 Vallees, France and Heavenly, Kirkwood and Northstar in the US. For me this represented great value, but if you can only get a one week trip every year then the USA may be an expensive option for lift passes.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where can you ski year round in the USA?
In Europe there are a number of ski resorts that are open for year round operation, sadly in the US this is not the case. The sole 365 ski resort in the US is Timberline Lodge at Mt Hood in Oregon. The Timberline lodge ski area is open throughout the summer months and offers some freestyle focussed terrain on the Palmer Glacier.
What is the largest ski resort in USA?
Utah is home to the largest ski resort in the USA with Park City taking the title. Park City ski area outside of Salt Lake City offers 250km of pistes between an elevation of 2080m-3049m. The masses of terrain at Park City is serviced by 39 chairlifts. Park City is great for intermediates with 152km of the trails being graded for intermediate level riders.
What is the most expensive ski resort in the USA?
Completely at the opposite end of how I like to ski this question asks for the most expensive ski resort in the USA. I am just grateful that the answer is D*** V***** which I have no intention of heading to due to their stance on snowboarders. It is reported that guests spend over $500 per night for a room in a 3* hotel at D*** V*****.
Which State in the USA has the most ski resorts?
In total, there are around 476 operating ski resorts in the USA which open across 37 different states. The state with the most ski resorts is New York which has 51 resorts. The following states only have 1 ski resort; Alabama, Maryland, Rhode Island and Tennessee.
WHY SKI OR SNOWBOARD IN THE USA
There are many reasons to choose the USA for your next ski or snowboard trip. The US is home to a large number of ski resorts that can be considered amongst the best in the world. The profile of resorts like Vail, Killington, Heavenly and Jackson Hole ensure that America is firmly on the map.
The USA offers a huge amount of choice and flexibility in terms of a ski vacation. There are huge resorts, in terms of terrain, with Park City in Utah being the largest. The USA is also home to a number of unique smaller resorts like Mt Bohemia which have a cult following.
It is possible to ski year round in the USA, with resorts like Mt Hood open for summer skiing and snowboarding and Mammoth in California open for a longer season.
USA SKI RESORT SNOW RECORD
If you are looking for guaranteed powder days then a ski trip to the USA could be just what the powder Dr ordered. Utah is home to number of ski resorts that regularly receive over 12m of annual snowfall! That is Japan kind of crazy snowfall.
Sadly, although it has a cult following skiing the East Coast of the US offers less reward in terms of snowfall. There are some incredible East Coast ski resorts but this side of the US is more renowned for ice then powder days.
MULTI RESORT PASSES USA
Unless you have been buried under a rock for the past few years, you will have heard of both the Ikon and the Epic Pass. There is some debate over whether these season passes are a good or bad thing for the ski industry in America.
From a selfish standpoint I used the Epic pass for a season that allowed me to ski in the US, Japan, Europe and i’d planned a Australia trip (before Covid curtailed that idea). That is well… pretty Epic. To be able to ski across a number of resorts in different countries and continents is a unique. The Epic and Ikon are great for being able to access a number of resorts at what I deem to be a pretty reasonable price.
Sadly, these passes also come with a large downside. Crowds. The Epic and Ikon passes have encouraged more people to purchase season passes and have raised the profile of a number of resorts. The increased profile and accessibility has led to crowds, especially at peak holiday periods or weekends.
Although many locals view Epic or Ikon as a negative, potentially bringing more crowds to the resort, these passes have also led to a huge effort to increase the quality of infrastructure. Many resorts on the passes have received upgrades to their lift system and lodges which leads to a greater overall experience.
There are a number of other combined ski passes in America such as the Mountain Collective or Indy Pass. These tend to offer a few days skiing or snowboarding across their member resorts.
THE US SKI SEASON
The ski season in the USA is pretty long with a number of resorts having extended seasons. It is not uncommon for US ski resorts to open in November and to have their closing weekend towards the end of April. A number of ski resorts in the USA have extended seasons that can run into June or July. Mammoth in California in particular being one of the last to close.
In addition to the long ski season in the USA, it is possible to ski throughout the summer. Oregan is home to Timberline which sells itself as the only year-round ski resort in North America. Timberline is popular with freestyle camps with a good terrain park set up. Another great summer ski or snowboard trip option is Beartooth Basin, Montana. Beartooth Basin is strange as it actually isn’t open during the winter months. This summer only ski resort only opens once the snow has been cleared from the access roads in May. Think of Beartooth Basin as small but steep summer skiing.
RESORT REVIEWS
USA GALLERY
USA VIDEOS
NORTHSTAR
HEAVENLY
KIRKWOOD
COST OF A USA SNOWBOARD TRIP
The cost of skiing and snowboarding in the USA is a complicated issue. From a European perspective a ski trip to the USA can seem very costly. In fact, out of the snowboarding I have completed across South America, Europe, Asia, Australasia and North America, US ski trips hurt the wallet the most. Even when compared to their nearest neighbour Canada a US ski trip is costly.
The main difference in price can be found in the lift tickets. Lift tickets in the USA can seem extortionate with some of the larger resorts charging hundreds of $ for a day pass. Purchasing an Epic or Ikon pass will significantly reduce these costs.
One positive of a US ski trip in terms of cost is your dining costs. I found that in South Lake Tahoe I was able to eat out for a reasonable price and still have a decent quality of meal. Similarly, having an Apres ski drink will set you back less in the US then it would in Europe.
PIN IT
Kirkwood Ski Resort Guide
Kirkwood California is probably the best ski resort you have never heard of. A real locals mountain tucked away from the crowds of South Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood is one for your ski and snowboard bucket list. With an incredible snow record and some impressively challenging terrain Kirkwood excels in pretty much every area.
Since joining the Epic pass revolution Kirkwood is growing in popularity and there are a number of locals who don’t like that. The resort is changing both in regards to facilities and popularity and before long I am sure that Kirkwood will cement it’s place as a must visit US ski resort. There is a purpose built village at the base of Kirkwood with lodging, restaurants, and bars. There are a number of newer accommodations being developed within a short walk of the lifts.
Despite all the developments, Kirkwood remains laid back. The lifts are slow but that’s ok because your legs will need the time to recover. I was drawn to Kirkwood to snowboard on ‘The Wall’ a popular run accessed by the famous number 10 chair. But in reality I enjoyed riding around the whole resort. From outstanding tree runs, perfect pistes, and big bumps Kirkwood is an all-rounder.
KIRKWOOD FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Turning into Kirkwood the goosebumps had already started. Snow was falling and there were only a few cars in the car park. Walking through the village there was a calm to the place. No one was rushing, despite the fact that it was a powder day and the lifts were about to start turning. I guess the locals knew there was enough to go around.
KIRKWOOD SKI AREA
Kirkwood Ski Resort is blessed with some pretty awesome terrain. 80+ trails offer plenty of variety and ensure there is always something new to ride. The terrain is heavily biased in favour of expert skiers or snowboarders however there is a designated beginners area and some fun intermediate terrain. Kirkwood has everything an expert skier or snowboarder would want with wide bowls and fantastic tree skiing. There are a number of natural terrain features such as cornices and couloirs to keep things interesting.
The frustrating thing about Kirkwood ski resort is the lift system. There are 13 lifts but only a few actually access the highest terrain on the mountain. Chair 4, 6 and 10 alongside the Vista T-Bar offer the best access to advanced terrain. The layout of Kirkwood and its lift system can mean that long traverses are needed to get to different parts of the resort.
I personally had a lot of fun from Number 4 Chair. The hike from the top of Sunrise to Cold Shoulder and Larry’s Lip being particularly fun. The Vista T-Bar also accesses some short but challenging double black diamond’s.
It is hard to talk about the Kirkwood ski area without mentioning Number 10 chair and The Wall. The Wall is a pretty imposing double black diamond that overlooks the Kirkwood mountain village. The access chairlift for the wall has a famous skull and crossbones warning sign notifying you that it is expert only. The Wall is good fun after heavy snowfall and if you like big bumps.
Another favourite was the traverse into Sentinel Bowl deem Number 6 Chair. Although the traverse itself was fairly dull, the terrain in Sentinel Bowl is well worth it. There were plenty of interesting tree runs to explore in tis area.
KIRKWOOD SKI AREA BY ABILITY
BEGINNERS TERRAIN KIRKWOOD
Honestly, I would not recommend Kirkwood as a beginners ski resort. There is only a small amount of Green terrain which will see you repeating runs until they become tedious. The beginners area, Timber Creek, is away from the main runs, so at least that gives beginners a quiet place to learn.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN KIRKWOOD
Similar to beginners there isn’t much in the way of intermediate terrain at Kirkwood. What there is though is really fun. Runs like Elevator Shaft and Devil’s Draw give you the opportunity to nip in and out of the trees whereas pistes like Lower Zachery are wide and well groomed. Kirkwood could be a great resort for intermediates to take their first turns in the trees.
ADVANCED TERRAIN KIRKWOOD
This is where Kirkwood comes into its own. There is such a great variety of advanced terrain at Kirkwood that you can always find a challenge. The tree skiing is excellent and the bowls offer opportunities to drop some nice ledges or navigate through rocky outcrops.
LIFTS AT KIRKWOOD
Kirkwood’s lift system is far from a reason to visit. Behind the times in many ways the lift system is probably one of the things that keeps Kirkwood quiet. The interesting terrain at Kirkwood is accessed via fairly slow fixed grip chairs that ensure you get a rest between runs. Honestly I am torn. Quicker lifts and Kirkwood probably gets buried in crowds and loses its charm… small price to pay?
KIRKWOOD SNOW RECORD
Kirkwood is blessed when it comes to annual snowfall with it regularly receiving over 15m throughout the season. The quality of the snow is pretty decent as well especially when compared to other Californian ski resorts that have lower base and summit elevations. Kirkwood ski resort doesn’t really do snow-making… well why would it need to?
KIRKWOOD PISTE MAP
SEASON DATES
The ski season at Kirkwood runs from late November until the third week of April with snow permitting. In California you can ski at Squaw or Mammoth for longer… but then is it as good?
KIRKWOOD LIFT TICKETS
Buying a day pass for Kirkwood is $109 which isn’t cheap. If you are planning a multi-day trip or plan to ski at other resorts during the season then it is worth considering the Epic Pass or one of the local Epic Value passes. An Epic Pass costs $979 at full value although discounts are normally available if purchased early. This means just 9 days of use to break even when compared to equivalent day passes.
KIRKWOOD VIDEOS
TRAVEL TO KIRKWOOD
WHERE IS KIRKWOOD?
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is a 45 minute drive from South Lake Tahoe if you are already in the area or a 3 hr drive from San Francisco. Because of the extreme amounts of snow that Kirkwood receives this can affect the conditions on the road. You will find the latest road information here but it is important to be prepared for winter driving conditions.
Beware GPS
During the winter certain roads in California close due to the winter conditions. Mormon Emigrant Trail may show as your fastest route however this road is not accessible during winter.
HOW TO GET TO KIRKWOOD
INTERNATIONAL
If arriving internationally you will be best served to fly into San Francisco International Airport. From San Francisco, you can continue your journey by either taking an internal flight to Reno or take the 3-hour drive to South Lake Tahoe straight from San Francisco. It is also possible to fly into Sacramento but you will have to connect via another US airport.
DOMESTIC
An internal flight to Reno will bring you to your closest access point to the South Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts, but realistically you will still require car hire to get you the 1.5hr from Reno to Kirkwood ski area.
KIRKWOOD ACCOMMODATION
Kirkwood has its own village at the base. At Kirkwood you will find all sorts of hotels, condos and cabins. Consider using the link to look for your Kirkwood Accommodation.
KIRKWOOD PROS
Kirkwood ski resort has a really nice variety of terrain with challenging runs for experts as well as mellow beginners pistes
The Kirkwood snow record is insane! Kirkwood regularly receives more snow than the majority of ski resorts in the world
Kirkwood is generally quieter then other Tahoe ski areas. This shows itself in a really laid back vibe.
Kirkwood has a purpose built village that allows you to stay close to the slopes.
Free parking available in certain Kirkwood car parks
KIRKWOOD CONS
Lifts at Kirkwood can run slow which can put off many visitors
Kirkwood has a quiet village with few Apres opportunities.
KIRKWOOD GALLERY
KIRKWOOD FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS KIRKWOOD PART OF LAKE TAHOE
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is located in South Lake Tahoe, California. Kirkwood is around 45 minutes drive from the Lake Tahoe itself.
IS KIRKWOOD GOOD FOR BEGINNERS?
If you are a never ever taking your first turns for a day or two… yes, there is a designated beginners area at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. However the lack of beginner terrain in general means that Kirkwood is not the best option for beginner skiers or snowboarders
IS KIRKWOOD A DIFFICULT MOUNTAIN?
Kirkwood ski resort has some pretty gnarly terrain. There is a great variety to the advanced terrain at Kirkwood, meaning you don’t need to be doing anything crazy to find a challenge. However if you want to drop-in of a cornice or to navigate a narrow couloirs you can. The majority of terrain at Kirkwood is steep and mostly ungroomed, this can add to the intensity of the terrain.
DOES KIRKWOOD MAKE SNOW?
Kirkwood doesn’t need to make snow as it gets such a good natural snow fall. Kirkwood has a long season due to its snow record, but some snowmaking is in place to ensure that the beginning and end of the season conditions remain epic.
DOES KIRKWOOD HAVE TUBING?
There isn’t much in the way of off-snow activities at Kirkwood however the tubing hill is perfect for families looking for a break from skiing and snowboarding. Bonus about tubing at Kirkwood is there is a rope tow to help you get back to the top.
IS KIRKWOOD GOOD?
Crazy question. Kirkwood is genuinely one of the best ski resorts I have visited. LOVE IT!
HOW LONG IS THE KIRKWOOD SKI SEASON?
Kirkwood regularly opens for winter operations in November and closes in April!
GET IN TOUCH
Thanks for reading this Kirkwood ski resort guide and I hope it has answered many of your questions. I’ve given my opinion but I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via the socials. Have you been to Kirkwood ski resort? What were your opinions? Are there better ski resorts in Lake Tahoe?
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RELATED KIRKWOOD POSTS
North America Snowboard Guide
Skiing and snowboarding in Canada and the USA are a must on any winter bucket list. With a variety of ski resorts from the huge Whistler Blackcomb in BC to lesser known Brian Head in Utah, a North American ski trip can suit everybody’s requirements. North America offers some of the best powder skiing in the world, locals who are passionate about their mountain and some epic landscapes. On the East Coast you will find Killington warmly referred to as ‘the Beast of the East’ alongside lots passionate East Coast skiers and snowboarders. Skiing the East coast isn’t always easy and this is reflected in the hardy locals. On the West Coast you will find the incredible Lake Tahoe home to a group of stellar mountains; Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, and of course Squaw Valley to name a few.
Canada is known for having great snow coupled with big mountain terrain and incredibly scenic resorts. Because of the popularity of skiing and snowboarding in Canada, the resorts tend to spend money updating facilities and infrastructure meaning fast lifts and great base area facilities. The quality of the resorts coupled with the welcoming people and of course… poutine, make Canada an appealing choice for any ski trip.
Whereas the Canadian Resorts may have a more relaxed vibe, it’s fair to say that the USA tends to think that bigger is better. With a number of resorts offering masses of terrain, think; Mammoth, Killington and Park City, there is a whole load of choice when it comes to a US ski trip. Although a contentious subject, the introduction of Epic and Ikon passes in the USA has made it easier for skiers and snowboarders to visit more resorts on a budget. When you combine great resorts with a large annual snowfall you are onto a winner. Although with Deer Valley, Alta and Mad River Glen still refusing access to snowboarders there are some resorts a little behind the times.
MULTI RESORT LIFT PASSES
There are two main options in the USA and Canada for multi-resort ski passes; Epic Pass and Ikon Pass. Other multi-resort passes such as Mountain Collective do exist and may suit your needs, but tend not to offer the mass amounts of unlimited snowboarding I would look for in a season pass. The Epic Pass is owned by Vail Resorts and if you are a Vail local makes perfect sense, as you will pay for your season pass with just 4 days of skiing or snowboarding. For me it made perfect sense as well. In the 2019/2020 season I will use my Epic Pass in France, Italy, USA, Japan and hopefully Australia, which shows the versatility of this pass.
I considered the Ikon Pass which is also a great shout if you solely intend to ride in the USA and Canada but offered less options for skiing in other parts of the world on an unlimited basis, although it does offer 7 days with NZ Ski at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Mt Hutt… you can read more about those resorts here.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A NORTH AMERICAN SKI TRIP
If a multi-resort pass isn’t an option for you then a trip to Canada will be easier on your wallet than the US, which has quite high lift pass prices. Both a Canadian and American ski trip may feel a little different from a European perspective with less on snow accommodation in favour of ski towns a short distance from the slopes. This can actually feel like a better environment with ski towns being more functional than the European ski-in ski-out villages. A major benefit of the ski town experience is the access to a range of other activities such as; curling, cinema’s, ice rinks, etc.
EXPLORE BY COUNTRY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many ski resorts are in North America?
This article lists 817 ski resorts in North America which should be enough choice to keep most people happy! Not only is there a great amount of ski resorts in North America but also a great diversity of ski resorts. With local run ski resorts like Mt Bohemia and large corporate resorts like Vail you can choose ski resorts not only based on terrain and ability but also somewhat on beliefs!
What is the largest ski resort in North America?
There are a number of huge ski resorts on the North American continent but the biggest is still Whistler Blackcomb in Canadas British Columbia. Whistler is not just a massive ski area but a year round resort that is worth visiting at all times of year. Whistler offers skiing in both the winter and in the summer with access to the Whistler glacier possible during the summer months. Other notable large North American ski resorts are Park City in Utah and Big Ski in Montana that have 7,300acres and 5,800acres of terrain respectively. Although Whistler is the largest ski resort in Canada at 8,171acres the second largest is nearly half the size with Sun Peaks, BC having 4,270acres of terrain across three mountains.
What ski resort gets the most snow in America?
Not only do the ski resorts in North America receive large amounts of snowfall, in some areas it is up there with the best in the world. The most snow recorded falls at Mt Baker in Washington where they record season averages of 16.5m, which is more than Tsugaike Kogen in Hakuba! The snow quality can vary a lot across North America with the coastal resort of Whistler having sometimes wetter heavier snow with British Columbias interior resorts like Whitewater having a dry light powder snow. Other notable resorts that receive large snowfalls are; Snowbird 13m, Kirkwood 12m, and Mt Hood Meadows 11.5m.
FEATURED RESORTS
NORTH AMERICA GALLERY
A Guide To Snowboarding In Asia
Asia’s ski scene is dominated by Japan due to the incredible amounts of snow that cover the country between December and March., but Japan isn’t your only option for an Asian ski or snowboard trip. China hosted the Beijing Olympics and as such invested heavily in infrastructure across the country. South Korea has ski resorts surrounding its capital city of Seoul and high in the Himalayas, resorts like Gulmarg offer a ski experience of a different kind. If you are looking for something different from your next ski adventure then Asia could just be for you.
Asian ski and snowboard experiences are no longer a secret attracting winter visitors from around the globe. The ease of access from Australasia has meant that Japan has become a favourite amongst Aussies and Kiwis looking for their snow fix. But further afield in Europe and the US, an Asian ski trip is attracting more people every year.
It’s simple, an Asian ski trip offers something different from the norm for international skiers and snowboarders. The chance to dive deep into a new culture, explore new foods and have an adventure remain key reasons for visiting Asian ski resorts. Asia is a continent that offers a lot of variety in its ski scene and this is also appealing. I have enjoyed taking day trips to Heaven Lake in China and to see the snow monkeys in Japan whilst on Asian ski trips.
Consider a trip to Japan if you want to visit the snowiest place in the world and lap fresh powder until your legs can take no more. Head to China if you are looking for well-maintained terrain parks or the worlds largest indoor dome in Harbin. Host to the 2022 Winter Olympics, infrastructure in China is improving rapidly. Alternatively, why not consider India and the opportunity to ski or snowboard amongst the Himalayan mountain range and access the worlds highest lift at 3797m.
The ski season in Asia runs between December and April with the best conditions found in late January to mid-February. During this time Japan traditionally receives large dumps of snow. Although some ski resorts in China and South Korea receive lower annual snowfalls, during December - April the conditions are cold enough to run the snow guns to ensure a full season
EXPLORE BY COUNTRY
China has recently exploded its ski and snowboard scene since hosting the Winter Olympics in Beijing. This event was a major catalyst for huge investment in Chinese ski resorts. Ski areas in Yabuli, Changbaishan and closer to the capital of Beijing growing in popularity.
China
Japan is a snowboarding mecca that used to be a secret but that secret is well and truly out. Japan is best known for epic snowfall that delivers some of the world’s best powder skiing conditions. Japan also delivers off the slopes with an incredible culture to throw yourself into.
Japan
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can You Snowboard In China?
Yes, with China set to host the Olympics it has invested heavily in it’s ski infrastructure. There are hundreds of resorts across the country however you will find the main ones close to Beijing or in the North East of the country near Harbin.
How Much Does It Cost To Snowboard In Japan?
It’s not cheap, let’s start there. Everything from; transport, accommodation and lift passes can add up in Japan. I ended up staying in a guest house, which was nice but it was shared with other guests. You can find a link to it here. In terms of lift pass prices, you will expect to pay between 3000-5000 Yen per day for a lift pass. You can buy weekly passes which save you some money and include inter-resort transport.
What is better Hakuba or Niseko?
From a personal perspective, I can not answer this having only snowboarded in Hakuba, not Niseko. I have however had friends who have worked, skied and lived in both and essentially this is their opinion… Niseko is more cruisey than Hakuba so if you are looking for steep runs then Hakuba is your answer. Niseko get’s more snow than most places on the earth… so if snow is your only criteria than Niseko probably pips Hakuba. Hakuba does still receive over 12m of snow per season!
What is the best month to go snowboarding in Japan?
Japan can have a relatively shorter season with the best conditions normally occurring between January and February.
Where is the best snowboarding in Asia?
Well, this one is going to be incredibly subjective. Asia is a continent with lots of diverse conditions that can make for some interesting ski areas. Japan has to be high on the list due to the abundance of snow and incredible tree skiing.
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How Much Does It Cost To Ski In Europe?
When having conversations with friends, cost is always the biggest factor in preventing them from taking the plunge on their first ski holiday. People often remark about how expensive a skiing holiday can be but does it have to be this way? I have always been good at searching for a deal and as long as you are open minded your ski holiday could cost less than you thing.
More complex than the average beach or city break, the additional costs of; lift passes, ski carriage or equipment hire and ski lessons can soon add up. This is enough to put some people off a trip to the snow, but with some forward planning these additional costs can be reduced and integrated into an affordable ski trip package.
Transport
Flights
Transport to your ski destination can be one of the first things to hit your pocket. With over 1 million brits heading on ski holidays every winter, travel at peak times can mean peak prices!
Looking into flight prices for a ski trip during the school Christmas holiday saw flights on the popular London to Geneva route with British Airways rise from £74pp to £133ppm. This shows the importance of flexibility if you want to get value for your ski holiday this winter.
Cheaper flights were available with budget airlines however these were not inclusive of baggage fees. This is especially important if you are travelling with your own ski gear as with British Airways you ski bag can count in your luggage allowance.
Booking flights early will reduce costs significantly so plan ahead. You can check the latest flight prices here.
Transfers
If you are planning to fly to resort then it is likely you will require either car hire or an airport transport on arrival. For a week car hire for a mid sized vehicle could cost between £350-£400, not so bad when split between a group of you. But when you factor in the cost of petrol and the risk of damaging the car and being hit with exorbitant excess fees a airport transfer can work out as a better option.
There are so many companies operating Airport-transfers in Europe that prices are very competitive. Obviously consider getting a group mini bus to save costs but be aware this may lead to you waiting around at the airport for other passengers to arrive. The last time I took a airport transfer was with GoMassif from Geneva. They were great and cost was around €80 for the round trip.
Train
Not just good for the environment but also friendlier on your wallet, have you considered taking a train to a ski resort? There are many advantages to taking the train, especially if you are travelling with your own ski gear! No luggage weight allowances mean you can pack that bag as full as you like without the risk of incurring excess luggage fees. Not only this but travel by train usually works out cheaper than equivalent flights to Europe. Consider taking the Eurostar from London to Bourg St Maurice where you will be able to ski at the resorts of; La Rosière, Les Arcs, La Plagne, Tignes and Val d’Isère. Check the latest train times and prices here.
Driving
Driving holidays have always been great fun, although now there is certainly a wider appeal. Driving to a ski resort is not only a great way to save money and help the environment but in this modern post Covid world it’s also a great way to avoid contact with lots of other people. Self-drive ski holidays can also offer you the flexibility to travel when you want but also offer freedom of movement when in resort. If you fancy skiing at a different resort, just jump in your car and go! There are also a few negatives with more time spent travelling and less room to move than on a train, but all things considered a self-drive ski trip will suit many.
Be aware that if driving you will need to ensure your car is road legal in Europe for winter driving and this can incur extra costs.
Accommodation
Accommodation costs in ski resorts are not cheap, and this will contribute to a large cost of your holiday. Luckily over the past few years Airbnb and Flipkey have broadened the options available to skiers and snowboarders through private apartment rentals. In turn, this added competition has had a knock on effect on Hotel owners who have had to reduce prices to compete.
Accommodation costs can vary greatly depending on the resort you choose to ski in and your accommodation preferences. It is possible to stay in Samöens in the Grand Massif for between £430 and £1000 based on two people sharing for one week. For same week in January, it is possible to stay in Borovets, Bulgaria for £157pp based on two people sharing. If you are unsure about snowboarding in Bulgaria you can check the Bulgaria snowboarding guide here.
I guess with accommodation it is up to you to decide where you want to save the money.
Ski or Snowboard Rental
If you own your own gear feel free to skip this bit, although you may want to consider the cost of Ski Carriage! Ski Rental can sometimes be combined in some package holidays, which can be cost effective and hassle free. If you are needing to add ski or snowboard rental to your costing then at least there is a degree of flexibility.
Ski rental companies often offer three tiers of packages, Bronze, Silver and Gold. Some will wow you with the exciting Platinum offering but in reality if you are renting skis you probably won’t tell the difference - no judgement.
Depending on your level and the type of skiing you will be doing, you should be able to come to a conclusion as to which package to get. If you are a beginner, stick to bronze, there is little point in investing extra money in a more versatile ski as you will most likely be staying on-piste.
An example Silver package of Boots, Ski’s and Helmet rental will cost €119 for one week in Morzine.
My advice, if you catch the bug and can see yourself skiing or snowboarding year after year then invest in your own gear. Even if you don’t want/need a full ski set up investing in decent boots will lead to a happier time on the mountain.
If you are looking into purchasing your own gear be sure to check my Gear Buying Guides for some advice.
Ski Lessons
Learning to ski or snowboard can contribute to the cost of your ski trip sky rocketing. There are always new things to learn so taking a lesson can be of real benefit, even to experienced skiers and snowboarders. You can save money on lessons by taking half day sessions which give you free time to put your new skills to the test on the mountain. Taking your lesson in the afternoon is often more affordable.
Deciding an appropriate resort to learn in can also make a huge difference to the cost of your ski lessons. Lets compare the cost of ski lessons in Morzine versus Bankso. New Generation ski school Morzine offer a six day 3 hour lesson package for €430 per person. Alternatively, a similar package in Bansko will cost only €115.
If you are a beginner it is unlikely you will make the most of all the terrain surrounding Morzine in the Port Du Soleil so it may be financially more viable to head to Bulgaria or Andorra, where lessons are cheaper.
As you progress you may benefit more from more intense private lessons over shorter time periods. This will allow you to work on your skiing technique and then test yourself around the mountain.
Ski Pass
Ski passes can either be amazing value or a right rip-off. I ALWAYS look for a ski pass that will help me make the most of my whole season. Next year that will be the Magic Pass. If purchased early the Magic Pass offers summer and winter access to some of the best Swiss ski resorts for 399CHF (€365). For someone who skis more than one week a year this is well worth the investment especially when compared to large French ski areas.
A 6 day Adult Port Du Soleil lift pass costs €295, whereas a 6 day Three Valleys Pass costs €321! Both great ski areas but also harder on the wallet! As with most things, booking early can help you secure discounts so plan ahead.
Beginners should keep an eye out for resorts where there is no charge for the beginners areas. Flaine is a great example of a resort that allows beginners to use their magic carpet and beginners slope at no cost!
Food and Drink
General life in a ski resort isn’t cheap! If you stop for lunch on the mountain you will soon see that the price of food and drink can be extortionate. If you are looking to pinch the penny’s then consider taking your lunch onto the mountain. Preparing a sandwich can save you €15-€50 on the mountain.
Similarly, drinks on the mountain are not cheap. Look to take part in the popular Happy Hours to save some money in the bars.
You will find that food and drink is more affordable outside of France and Switzerland. Italy can offer good food at exceptional value, so it is worth considering this when opting for your destination.
How Much Will A Ski Holiday Cost?
Well hopefully you can see that there are compromises and choices to be made which could help reduce the cost of your next ski holiday in Europe. The total cost of a European ski holiday can vary significantly depending on destination and choices.
Bulgaria
If you are a beginner or looking to save some cash, considering a ski trip to Bulgaria could be perfect. With cheap flights and accommodation in addition to reduced prices on; ski lessons, lift passes and ski rental it is possible to ski in Bansko or Borovets on the cheap. Packages including flights and accommodation are available for as little as £440. With the addition of lift passes, rentals and lessons you could be all in for well under £1000!
France
As a premium destination, French ski resorts charge the highest prices. Considering a trip to Morzine a 3* Hotel within a short walk of the centre of Morzine will cost around £839 in January. When you consider the addition of lift pass, rental and lessons you could be breaking the £2000 barrier.
Andorra
Andorra could be an interesting alternative to the French Alps with package deals from Crystal Ski offering 7 days Half Board accommodation and flights for under £500
What Represents Value For You?
I’d love to hear from you on the following… Can ski holidays can be good value for money? What compromises are you prepared to make to reduce the price of your next ski trip? Would you rather pay more to ski in France or are you happy to try alternative destinations? Let me know below in the comments.
Night Skiing At Coronet Peak In Queenstown
Queenstown is often referred to as the adventure capital of the world. With two world class ski resorts situated just a few kms from the town centre, in addition to regular buses to the resorts in Wanaka, you could say that Queenstown locals are spoilt for choice. When it comes to night skiing though, only Coronet Peak illuminates its slopes for skiing and snowboarding after dark. This makes Coronet Peak the place to be if you want to continue your ski day well after Apres.
What Is Night Skiing?
Night Skiing refers to skiing or snowboarding after the regular hours of the ski resort. Normally the lifts stop turning at 4pm and that is when people will hit the bars or head back to their accommodation. Night skiing allows you to keep the fun going with an extra 5 hours of lift accessible skiing and snowboarding. At Coronet Peak this is made even more awesome by the ski resorts epic location. Coronet Peak has panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu that become even more special as the sun begins to set. When the sunlight has gone, Coronet Peak illuminates the pistes by using floodlights. Riding on floodlit pistes is an brilliant experience that every skier or snowboarder should try.
Night Skiing At Coronet Peak
Coronet Peak is open between 4PM and 9PM for night skiing and offers this on a Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. The Fridays and Saturdays can be quite lively with large party’s and live music, but if that’s not your thing head up on a Wednesday or the Saturday after a Friday show. This way you will find it much quieter. If you like live music then be sure to stop in at the main lodge in between laps, where you will find bands, DJ sets and other activities.
Coronet Peak Night Skiing Trails
Coronet Peak opens up the majority of it’s terrain for night skiing which is really cool. Unlike previous night skiing resorts I had tried you can reach the summit on the Coronet Express Chair. This essentially opens all 460M of Coronet’s vertical drop. Although the GreenGates Express is open at 4PM it closes as Night Skiing gets into full swing, leaving skiers right of the GreenGates inaccessible after 5PM. This still leaves access to; Green, Blue and Black runs from the summit, meaning that everybody at night skiing can make the most of the whole mountain. Coronet Peak also leaves its Meadows beginners area open throughout night skiing meaning that you can take lessons and practice your turns ready for a full day on the slopes tomorrow.
Coronet Peak Night Skiing Costs
If you have been paying attention to my previous videos and blogs on New Zealand you may have decided to purchase the NZ Ski Pass. If so great decision, especially if you grabbed the early bird deal. With the NZ Ski Pass you will be able to ski or snowboard at Coronet Peak, Mt Hutt and The Remarkables unlimited for the season, and YES!! That includes night skiing at Coronet Peak. If you missed it, you can check out the video below for more information.
If you don’t think that the NZ Ski Pass would represent value for your trip, then you can pay as you go with prices below.
Adults Night Skiing Pass $65 NZD
Child or Senior Night Skiing Pass $45NZD
Valid from 4-9PM.
Prices accurate as of 2019 season, for latest prices click here
Why Go Night Skiing?
Queenstown is an incredible place to explore and during the daylight hours you will find plenty of activities to keep you occupied. You might want to take the day off the snow to go on the famous Shotover Jet Boat or to take a stroll along the Routeburn Track. Like me, you may arrive in Queenstown late after driving back from Milford Sound but still fancy your snow fix. If this is the case, then night skiing offers the perfect opportunity for you to have your FergBurger and eat it too!
More than anything though, night skiing at Coronet Peaks offers the chance to be elevated to one of the most picturesque view points in Queenstown. From here you will be able to watch the sun set over Lake Wakitipu and the Remarkables mountain range, whilst enjoying the crisp evening air.
Final Thoughts
I was apprehensive about night skiing at Coronet Peak as my last experience of after hours snowboarding was a bit of a let down. This really was the opposite, with plenty of terrain and some awesome events happening. I was always keen to head back to Coronet for more night skiing. Although night skiing proper doesn’t start until after 5pm, I would urge you to get on snow from 4pm. By doing so, you will be able to watch the sun set over Queenstown and beat the crowds to the often busy car parks.
What Is Merino Wool? And Should You Use It?
Finding the appropriate material for your outdoor clothing is really important. The use of cotton in high output activities has been thought of as archaic for a while now. Cotton holds moisture and odour meaning you can feel wet and smelly pretty soon into a hike. Another option has been synthetic clothing that has improved the wicking performance of garments but odour has still be an issue. Step in Merino wool. Merino wool garments can offer exceptional performance in the mountains and below I outline why.
WHAT IS MERINO WOOL?
Merino Wool is a natural fibre that is grown on Merino sheep from New Zealand and Australia. Merino fibre benefits from being incredibly fine, making it softer than other types of wool. What makes Merino sheep, and in essence their wool, special is their ability to live in varying temperatures. Merino sheep are used to dealing with fluctuations from -20ºC upwards of 30ºC. This makes Merino a versatile material to use in the construction of outdoor garments as they can be utilised in many different environments.
WHY USE MERINO WOOL CLOTHES?
Do you enjoy getting outside? Do you like to get outside regardless of the weather? Do you take part in a range of winter and summer sports? Well if that sounds like you then merino could be the material you are looking for, as Merino wool lends itself to every adventure in every season. Naturally regulating your body temperature and wicking pesky moisture away from your skin, you can feel comfortable in Merino wool clothing from the first minute to the last. Even better, Merino wool is naturally odour resistant! Yes, you will sweat but smell less! Finally, and not to be forgotten, Merino wool is soft and incredibly comfortable against the skin.
ADVANTAGES OF MERINO WOOL
RENEWABLE
Merino wool is a natural fibre grown on sheep so it is also renewable. Merino sheep can group up to five lbs of wool per year and what’s even better? Merino sheep have lived in harsh environments and their wool is well naturally adapted to handle these climates.
Comparing Merino to synthetic or cotton equivalents shows that these alternatives need large amounts of processing before they are used in garments. Merino is a natural fibre and as such has less impact on the environment.
MERINO WOOL ODOUR RESISTANCE
A massive selling point for me is the odour resistance of Merino wool. I first came across Merino wool before a trekking trip in India, where I wanted to only pack a finite amount of clothing. Taking two t-shirts for a one month trip may seem daunting to many, especially in a hot country like India, but it worked a treat. Merino garments are capable of absorbing odour, preventing them from developing into that awful post-hike stench.
Dubious at first, years later I am still amazed at how Merino clothing remains odour resistant for way longer than synthetic equivalents.
TEMPERATURE REGULATION
Merino sheep need to survive in both hot and cold temperatures, meaning their wool is well adapted to both situations. A Merino garment will trap air for insulation in the cold but when it’s hot wick moisture away from the skin. This prevents that awful feeling when a cotton t-shirt gets wet due to excess sweat. A Merino t-shirt moves this moisture away from the skin and releases it as vapour. Synthetic fabrics also wick moisture away from the skin but they require an extra stage to do so, this can mean that synthetic garments are not as effective in cold climates.
MAKE A MERINO LAYERING SYSTEM
Layering systems are great for ensuring that you are just the right temperature at all stages of an activity. With the success of merino companies like Icebreaker and Smartwool more Merino clothing is finding its way into the market. What is great is now these companies are not just focused on base layers but full outfits. Layering a Merino jumper and jacket over a Merino t-shirt ensures that vapour can be wicked away efficiently.
MERINO WOOL IS COMFORTABLE
One reason many people avoid wool clothing is that they say it is itchy or uncomfortable. Well, Merino could just be the answer here as well. Merino wool is much finer than other wools meaning it is softer against the skin. In my experience, Merino doesn’t itch and I regularly use Merino t-shirts, hoodies and socks.
MERINO IS BIODEGRADABLE
It has already been mentioned the Merino has renewable qualities… well here is another reason that Merino is great for the environment. Being a natural fibre, Merino will decompose when put in a landfill. This means you can dispose of any old Merino garments without worrying about the future impact on the environment.
MERINO OFFERS UV PROTECTION
Those Merino sheep really have done all the hard work for us. Another benefit of Merino sheep’s evolution whilst living in hot temperatures is that Merino wool offers a natural UV barrier. This barrier to UV radiation protects the skin meaning you have less to worry about on those sunny days.
MERINO WOOL WARMTH TO WEIGHT
Merino wool offers an impressive warmth to weight ratio. Similar to down, Merino traps air between its fibres which helps create warmth. Merino’s natural loft ensures that it offers a very efficient temperature regulation.
MERINO WOOL IS STRONGER THAN COTTON
Merino wool fibres are stronger than cotton fibres. That’s right not only does your Merino t-shirt benefit from all of the above but it also is more durable than cotton.
DISADVANTAGES OF MERINO
There aren’t many… but here we go.
MERINO WOOL IS EXPENSIVE
Merino garments are more expensive than their cotton or synthetic equivalents, in the same way that a Ferrari is more expensive than a Fiat. Luckily there are companies trying to make Merino more affordable, check out ISOBAA who regularly have offers on SportPursuit.
DURABILITY ISSUES
Merino comes in different grades and the lighter garments (180 or lower) can be subject to holes. With lighter Merino garments pay particular attention to how you wash them. Avoid using fabric softener and do not overwash as this can leads to holes forming in the material. Remember Merino garments require less washing as they are naturally odour resistant.
IS MERINO FOR YOU?
Merino isn’t going to be worth the investment for everyone and that is ok. If however, you are a regular in the outdoors and you want the best performance from your garments then you should consider buying Merino wool clothing. I use a lot of my Merino garments in both summer and winter making the outlay worth it for me. I still search for deals and you can always pick up items in the sale making Merino more affordable.
IS MERINO ETHICAL?
Ethical concerns are becoming more prevalent across society and the outdoor community is no exception. It is worth noting that if you choose your Merino wool provider carefully, they will have sustainability and care for their animals at the core of what they do.
Merino is a natural fibre that has evolved over years of Merino sheep living in the harshest environments. The benefits of Merino in the outdoors are substantial and the effect on the environment little. Merino is a natural resource, it grows on sheep! No sooner have farmers sheered their sheep than the next coat of Merino wool begins to develop. Furthermore, Merino’s biodegradable properties ensure its environmental impact is negligible when discarded.
QUESTIONS ABOUT MERINO WOOL
WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT MERINO?
Merino wool is an amazing natural material that has many benefits. From odour resistance to temperature regulation, Merino wool can be beneficial in a range of activities.
WHY IS MERINO WOOL CONSIDERED SOFT?
Merino wool has elastic properties that ensure the fibres can retain their shape over time. This is one of the reasons that Merino garments do not need to be ironed… just hang them after washing. This natural resistance to wrinkling ensures that the garment remains smooth and soft against the skin with no itchiness.
IS CASHMERE BETTER THAN MERINO WOOL?
Cashmere has a higher loft than Merino ensuring it is softer. Durability wise, Merino is stronger so makes a better fabric for use in the outdoors.
WHY IS MERINO WOOL EXPENSIVE?
There are a number of reasons why Merino wool garments are expensive. Firstly, wool is a natural product and therefore requires time to grow. The process of farming Merino sheep is one that costs time and money. So sadly that price needs to be passed onto the consumer. Merino is super fine and therefore more merino wool is needed to complete one item in comparison to other wool products. More wool means a higher cost.
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MERINO PRODUCTS
Anon M4 | Ski Goggle Review
The opinions expressed in this review are my own and I am not paid by the brand. If this review helps you decide that the Anon M4 is the goggle for you, consider using the affiliate links to support the website. These links will provide a small commission to me at no extra cost to you.
Burton owned, Anon have been making quality ski and snowboard goggles for a number of years now. Their factory in Burlington Vermont is clearly a home of innovation and the M4 is the pinnacle of that process. The M4 is the top of the line goggle from Anon featuring, all the tech but still remaining good value.
ANON M4 OVERVIEW
Ok, you read it, I said that the Anon M4 remains good value. It is hard to justify that sentence for a £260 goggle but let me try. In the box you get; one goggle frame, two Perceive lenses and an MFI facemask, which is life-changing! The Anon M4 has everything you would expect from a top-end goggle.
The Anon M4 is unique in that the frame fits two lens shapes; Toric and Cylindrical. Anon M4 Toric lenses offer the widest field of view with that wrap around look that has become so popular. The Anon M4 Cylindrical lenses still offer a great field of view but with a more classic throwback style. The great thing about the Anon M4 ski goggles design is that you can mix and match the lens styles and swap out both Toric and Cylindrical lenses.
As you’d expect from a top end goggle, the Anon M4 has been designed to fit well with helmets. Anon make helmets as well, however I feel this goggle has fitted well with my Giro Combyn helmet over the last few seasons. The large frame design may not be to everyones taste, but if you like big frames the Anon M4 is a solid choice.
The key selling point for the Anon M4 goggle has to revolve around the intuitive MAGNA-TECH technology. Anon use magnets in both the lenses and their facemasks to ensure a seamless integration with the goggle frame. Changing the lens on an Anon M4 is this simple.
ANON M4 KEY FEATURES
Unisex frame
Thinner face foam used to ensure a close fit and optimising the field of view.
Triple-layer face foam incorporates a fleece layer that acts to wick moisture away from the skin and provide comfort, whilst adding two layers of foam for a snug seal and comfortable fit.
Light yet sturdy frame holds shape well ensuring a consistent and comfortable fit. There is some play in the frame allowing for slight movements and added comfort.
Ideally suited to medium and large face shapes.
Compatible with helmets (Best to try with yours before you buy).
MFI allows for facemasks to seamlessly attach to the goggle creating a full barrier to the elements. MFI is quick and easy with one hand movement.
Included MFI facemasks allow for ventilation and I have had no fogging issues.
The large frame is OTG compatible, so glasses wearers should be able to wear their frames underneath without discomfort. (Side note: I wear an insert with my prescription inside the goggle and this works great).
Price is all inclusive of MFI face mask, two lenses, goggle bag, and lens protective case.
MAGNA-TECH utilises 9 magnets to hold the lens in place. Strong enough to hold the lens in but still easy to change!
SONAR or PERCEIVE Lenses provide high-contrast and clarity.
ANON M4 goggle comes with hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings. These help the lenses avoid scratches and finger prints.
ANON Warranty - I have used the Warranty system in the past and they resolved my issue quickly and effectively. I have had no issues with my M4 goggles.
ANON M4 FIRST IMPRESSIONS
From initial look the Anon M4 is a great goggle. The first thing I normally check on goggles is the lens change. I want this to be easy so that I don’t have to faff on a mountain. Remember, that if its taking you time to do it indoors it will probably take you longer on the hill. Fair to say that the M4 has the best lens change out of any goggle I have previously tried.
Looking at the frame it is sturdy with a little bit of give. The foam closest to your face is fleece lined which adds another level of comfort. Sticking with the foam theme, there is what Anon call the ‘Full perimeter vent channel’ which allows air to circulate through the goggle preventing fogging. As expected the strap is backed with silicone to stop slip off helmets.
Another nice touch is the spare lens comes in a sturdy case to give you a bit more confidence if you are riding around with your spare lens in your pocket.
HOW GOOD ARE THE ANON M4 SKI GOGGLES
I have ridden with the Anon M4 ski goggle for a number of seasons now and it’s fair to say it’s my favourite goggle. There are plenty of reasons to like the Anon M4 but i’ll break down some of my favourites below.
ANON M4 FIELD OF VISION
The wide field of view on the Anon M4 gives you plenty of peripheral vision. The close to face design of the goggle frame ensures their are no blind spots or obstructions. The larger design does help in this regard and the Toric lenses will offer a greater field of view than the Cylindrical lenses.
ANON M4 LENSES
A while back I compared the Anon M4 Sonar lenses to Prism and Chromapop in this video. I was impressed by how the Sonar lenses performed in low light conditions, although I did say the Chromapop Lenses used on the Smith IO MAG outperformed Sonar, Anon have since upgraded their lenses.
Anon introduced PERCEIVE LENSES which has stepped up the performance in contrast lenses. Whereas contrast lenses traditionally target the Blue section of the colour spectrum (enhancing snow definition) Anon argued that although making the appearance of snow clearer, this approach compromised the natural appearance of the rest of the picture (trees, sky, buildings etc). PERCEIVE Lenses reduce the effect of 3 sections of the visual light spectrum resulting in a more neutral appearance, whilst still enhancing snow definition.
PERCEIVE LENSES ANON
Looking at the above chart the areas where you see a depression represent colour enhancement. This picture shows that PERCEIVE LENSES not only target the blue light but also green and red light.
PERCEIVE lenses also have the following protective coatings:
Hydrophobic - The hydrophobic coating works to repel moisture from the surface of the lens allowing it to run off and be channeled away easily.
Orleophobic - The Orleophobic coating prevents finger prints or smudges from forming on the lens.
HOW EASY IS THE LENS TO CHANGE
The easiest on the market. Nothing more really needs to be said.
ANON M4 FOGGING
I was initially worried that the integrated face mask would cause fogging, it doesn’t. The whole system works really well and aided by the full perimeter ventilation you can be sure of fog free days.
ANON M4 COMFORT
The Anon M4 has a larger nose bridge which for me makes a more comfortable goggle. Despite having a larger bridge there are no gaps in the goggle with foam preventing unnecessary wind access. Added fleece makes for a comfortable layer against your skin with a firmer foam keeping the goggles shape. One of the best comfort features on the Anon M4 is the MFI face mask. Whether its a; neck tube, balaclava or a hood, the MFI ensures a seamless fit and a complete barrier to the elements.
ANON M4 DURABILITY
I have ridden with the Anon ski goggle regularly since 2019. In that time, they have been well looked after but accidents do happen. Having crashed or fallen on many an occasion whilst wearing the Anon M4 goggle I can attest that they have stood the test of time. The frame is firm enough to prevent it from being easily damaged and the strap is in good condition having been worn under a helmet.
The main concern that people seem to have with magnetic lens ski goggles is whether they hold the lens when you fall. I can honestly say that the lens has not come out of my Anon M4 on impact. Furthermore, if it were to come out I am pretty sure you may have bigger worries. With that in mind, the lenses have also proved durable taking impact whilst resisting any major scratches.
ANON M4 STYLE
There is plenty of choice with the Anon M4 ski goggle. Available not just in a range of colourways but also with a choice of lenses. Like the alien from another planet look then opt for M4 Toric Lenses. Alternatively, choose the M4 Cylindrical Lenses for that old school look. Can’t make up your mind, well no worries, just mix and match the lenses as they will both fit the same frame.
I like the larger frame goggle look so these are perfect for me.
If you wear the Anon M4, let me know what you think below in the comments.
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE ANON M4
Magna-tech lens changes are by far the fastest and easiest I have ever tried. I would struggle to go back to another system.
MFI face mask is also a game-changer. Seamless integration with the goggle to create a barrier to the elements.
The Anon M4 comes with two lenses as standard. This means you should be sorted for all conditions.
The lens case that comes with the Anon M4 ski goggle is a nice touch.
WHAT I DISLIKE ABOUT THE ANON M4
The price. This is a top-end goggle and as such you are looking a spending a few pennies to pay for them. Now they have been out a few years, it is possible to find old colourways for slightly cheaper.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Anon M4 is a fantastic goggle that firmly sits as my favourite out of the goggles I have tried. Having previously been disappointed with the performance of the Anon M3 goggle this is certainly a step up. The money is worth spending if you are a regular skier or snowboarder and will get use out of them. Otherwise there are cheaper alternatives like the Anon Sync that you could consider.
Affiliate Links
These are all retailers that I have used for a number of years and in the case of some have worked for. The service is great and they stock incredible products. Purchasing through these links provides a small commission to support the site at no extra cost to you.
Ellis Brigham: https://tinyurl.com/y5h5efam
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Mt Hutt Ski Area By Ability
Mt Hutt ski resort is consistently voted New Zealand’s best ski resort. Receiving more snow than other resorts and offering an incredible level of customer service, my trip to Mt Hutt was one to remember. Its location in the Southern Alps with scenic views across Canterbury is special and its rugged terrain makes it a fantastic resort to explore. Let’s look a little deeper into the terrain at Mt Hutt and have a look at what is available for each ability level.
Mt Hutt Ski Resort
MT HUTT OVERVIEW
Mt Hutt ski resort has a good range of terrain with interesting off-piste, terrain parks and well-maintained groomers. Mt Hutt is a large bowl with the majority of runs leading back down to the base lodge, although some do run lower. This makes it a great place for families or groups travelling with different ability levels. Mt Hutt receives around 4m of snow each winter and supplements this with extensive snow cannon coverage. When the conditions are good at Mt Hutt, everything is a go with chutes and steeps to keep the most hardened snowboarders entertained. In lean snow years, there may be a lack of coverage on the off-piste terrain but the resort does a great job of keeping the pistes covered and building terrain parks. There is a total of 40km of pistes at Mt Hutt with the majority of trails aimed towards intermediate riders. There are no trees at Mt Hutt which can leave you feeling exposed on those bad weather days.
BEGINNERS TERRAIN AT MT HUTT
Not known for its beginner terrain Mt Hutt may not be the first choice for New Zealand ski-lessons. Uniquely, Mt Hutt offers free skiing to anyone under 10 which makes it a fantastic option for families. In regards to terrain, there is a beginner area ‘Skiwiland’ at the base which is serviced by a slow magic carpet. This is a pretty decent gradient for those first-turns and not too intimidating. When the confidence is flowing beginners can head to the Quad Chair and enjoy two winding greens; Inside Leg and Highway 72 that lead back to the base. The more adventurous can head to the Summit Six where you will be met with stunning views and Morning Glory, a mellow blue that leads to Lower Fascination.
Mt Hutt has its own ski school that offers ski and snowboard lessons to groups and privates.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN AT MT HUTT
Mt Hutt is a mountain that can really grow confidence in intermediate riders. There really is nowhere inbounds that you couldn’t explore and there are plenty of runs to keep you interested. Mt Hutt has some great groomed terrain where it is possible to push those speeds and enjoy the views. Intermediates will want to head straight to the Summit Six chair where Upper Fascination is popular. Those with a sense of adventure will want to take Virgin Mile. Virgin Mile not only offers panoramic views across Canterbury but there are a number of opportunities to drop into interesting black runs; Platter Splatter, Hydro Slide and High and Low Dive.
If freestyle is more your thing then intermediates will enjoy the progression park and the features alongside Highway 72. Both parks have a nice flow and provide incremental difficulty that will have you shredding the large park in no time.
MT HUTT PISTE MAP
Mt Hutt Ski Resort Piste Map
ADVANCED TERRAIN MT HUTT
Mt Hutt has a high proportion of black graded terrain and its South Face area is home to some challenging Black Diamonds. This makes Mt Hutt a great resort to visit as an advanced skier or snowboarder. Some of the best terrain requires a hike or a long traverse but this is ok as it means these areas are less crowded. The Towers was our favourite area at Mt Hutt as there are a number of interesting chutes and routes back down into the resort. Advanced skiers and snowboarders may also like the terrain at The Bluffs and out of the resort down Rakaia Saddle Chutes.
Mt Hutt offers some great off-piste terrain but that isn’t all it has to offer. Mt Hutt has a pretty good terrain park set up with a really nice progression throughout the different parks. There is a large park under the quad chair that advanced freestyle snowboarders will enjoy.
GET IN TOUCH
As always, thanks for reading this post but now it is time to hear from you! Have you visited Mt Hutt? I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments… Which run was your favourite? Do you think the resort is best suited to advanced or intermediate skiers and snowboarders?
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Everything You Need To Know About Heavenly Ski Resorts California Side | Video
Looking at the Heavenly ski resort map you will see that the resort is split across two US states; California and Nevada. It is possible to ski between the two sides however having an understanding about what each side has to offer can help save you time and potentially effort traversing. This post is all about Heavenly ski resorts California side but if you want to take a tour of the California side be sure to watch the video below.
HEAVENLY VILLAGE
Heavenly has a purpose-built resort village with; restaurants, accommodation and shops. For a full overview of the Heavenly Village Map look here. For visitors staying in the village, the Heavenly gondola is probably the route they will choose to access the mountain. The heavenly village provides the most direct route into the centre of Heavenly ski resort via the gondola. Unloading at Tamarack Lodge, the Heavenly gondola takes 15 minutes from the village to reach the top. The views from the gondola are worth the journey alone with an open panorama looking back at Lake Tahoe. If you need to park, then consider avoiding the gondola and instead head to California Lodge. Parking at the Heavenly gondola costs around $25 per day, whereas parking at California Lodge is free.
CALIFORNIA LODGE
A short drive from the Heavenly Village and you will be at California Lodge. California lodge offers two routes of uplifting onto the mountain, The Tram and Gunbarrel Express. The Heavenly Tram uplifts around 650 people per hour from the California Lodge car park to the top of Patsys run. The Tram is a popular method of getting onto the mountain but personally, I prefer the Gunbarrel Express chair. Gunbarrel Express runs parallel to the Heavenly Tram and uplifts to a very similar drop off point, the top of Paty’s run. A four-person quad chair, I prefer to ride Gunbarrel as you can ski off away from the lift with your gear already on. Just makes for a faster start to the day.
From the top of Gunbarrel or The Tram, you will find yourself at the top of Patsy’s run with two options… one take Patsy’s run or head down The Face, where you will find a number of Double Black Diamond graded trails and the perfectly groomed blue, World Cup.
Patsy’s is a mellow green and with its own chairlift, this is a popular place for people to learn. The area can get busy as it is an access point to the mountain but this clears outside of peak times. At the bottom of Patsy’s run, you will find two further chairlifts.
GROOVE CHAIR
The Groove runs parallel to Patsy’s chair and accesses the first of two terrain parks on the California side. The Groove Park is great with a beginners line that features small jumps and ride on box features. There is are also some larger jumps, two medium and two large, at the top of the Groove Park with a rail garden following both these lines. The rail garden allows for progression from the ride on boxes found in the small line. The Groove Park laps back down to the Groove Chair meaning you can just lap until your legs are done. The Groove chair is a slow 2 person chair but it gives a great view of the features as you ride back up.
POWDERBOWL EXPRESS
If you want to access further Heavenly ski resort terrain, you will want to take the Powderbowl Express chair. This fast 6 person lift takes you to the top of Powderbowl Woods. This area has a few Black Diamond graded trails, with bumps found on Powder Line and Waterfall. One of the most fun trails here is Mombo, a blue groomer that just feels great to bomb first thing in the morning.
If you want to head further into the resort, take the bottom of Ridge Run towards the Sky Deck.
SKY DECK
Sky Deck offers some really cool outside dining and access to two of the most popular chairs on the California side; Canyon Express and Sky Express. On the weekends this area can become hectic so potentially it is best to avoid it.
CANYON EXPRESS
Canyon Express Chair is one of my favourites on the California side. Shorter and less crowded than the Sky Express it accesses my favourite groomed run High Five. High Five is one of a few really nice groomed runs off the Canyon Express that are perfect to explore first thing in the morning.
SKY EXPRESS
Sky Express gives you some fantastic options with it possible to ride down Ridge Run back towards Canyon or Powderbowl Express chairs. My favourite option from here however is to take the Skyline trail and then find a spot to drop into the Ski Ways Glades or Pinnacles. These two areas have some really fun tree skiing and allow you to get away from the crowded groomers.
Skyline trail will also take you all the way over to Milky Way and the Nevada Side, but as this post is about California I’ll save that for another day.
Interested in Nevada Side Click Here.
From Skyline Trail you can take California Trail and Cascade, two fun Blues that will take you to the Tamarack Lodge and the top of Heavenly Gondola. Perfect if you want to head into the village for some lunch. Staying on the mountain? Well, the area around Tamarack Lodge is a base for ski school, with Easy Street and Big Easy perfect learner trails. There is also a Tubing Hill and Mountain Coaster found here in the Adventure Peak area.
The Tamarack Express is a fast 6 person chair that will give you access to California trail for the traverse back to California Lodge. The trails off the Tamarack Express are shorter than off Sky Express but are perfectly suited to intermediate skiers and snowboarders.
CALIFORNIA SIDE BEST FOR…
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
The ski school is based at Bear Cave near Tamarack Lodge with good access to Easy Street. This is a pretty good place to learn as the lodge is nearby if you need some rest. There is also progression close by with the opportunity to take the Tamarack Express to access some blue terrain.
Similarly, there is beginners terrain at California Lodge with Green runs Puma Trail and Enchanted Forest of the First Ride chairlift. There is another ski school base at California Lodge.
BEST FOR INTERMEDIATES
For me, its a choice of two places on the California side, either the Powderbowl Express or Canyon Express chairs. I am excluding the Tamarack Express as the runs there are quite short and could become boring very quickly. The runs off the Powderbowl Express chair are really fun having already mentioning Mombo. The Powderbowl Woods are a great place for intermediates to get their first experiences of glade skiing or snowboarding. Similarly, High Five and Ridge Run, accessed from the Canyon Express chair are great for intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Nice long groomed trails, leading back to the chairlift for another lap.
BEST FOR ADVANCED
It is hard to look past The Face for challenging terrain on the California side. The runs back down Gunbarrel and East Bowl are legendary and the moguls here are some of the largest on the mountain.
High Roller Park
High Roller Park has features much larger than I feel comfortable riding so would offer those with a freestyle focus more challenge than the Groove Park.
BEST FOOD WITH A VIEW
The best views from a restaurant on the California side at Heavenly has to be Booyah’s, Lakeview Lodge. The Lakeview Lodge has an outside terrace with uninterrupted views of Lake Tahoe. The Lodge can be found adjacent to the Heavenly Tram, near California Lodge.
BEST DRINK STOP
If you are looking for a place to celebrate your last run, or just have a cold one at lunchtime then Steins is a pretty good place to do it. Steins can be found next to Patsy’s and have lots of outdoor seating with deck chairs. If you have weary legs this is the best place to reboot.
BEST VIEW CALIFORNIA SIDE
At the top of Sky Express, there is a ski patrol station. Directly opposite, near the ski area boundary line, there is a scenic photo spot. Take off your ski’s and your board and head through the trees where it will open up to views across to Nevada. Stunning!
In terms of views from a run, the views from The Face or Gunbarrel looking back over Lake Tahoe are also pretty epic.
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You’ve heard from me, now it’s your turn to get involved! Have you visited Heavenly Ski Resort? What is your favourite run on the California side? Do you prefer skiing at Heavenly California or Heavenly Nevada? Let me know in the comments or via socials.
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Best Snowboard Shops Heavenly
When heading out on your ski trip finding the right equipment or place to tune your gear can be really important. Regardless of age or ability, you will want to find the best equipment at the lowest prices but most importantly get top advice. Well, South Lake Tahoe has a ton of ski and snowboard shops and I visited them all before breaking them down into this list. The ski shops on this list will guarantee to have you heading out the door with high-quality gear so you can make the most of your day on the snow.
THE VILLAGE BOARD SHOP
Hands down the best service I received whilst in Heavenly was at The Village Board Shop. The team at VBS was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful but not in a pushy kind of way. VBS is split across two floors with the downstairs being the location for their rental gear. You will also find your accessories downstairs with displays for; goggles, gloves, socks etc. Upstairs is where it gets interesting for me as this is where the hard goods are found. VBS had a good selection of snowboards with brands like; Jones, Salomon, and Nitro available. Even better they had a couple of last year’s boards available at pretty decent prices. When it comes to bindings and boots VBS had a decent selection of beginner through advanced gear with Union Bindings and a good selection of boot brands including; Thirty Two and Vans.
VBS can also take care of your tuning needs and I used their workshop for a full tune on my board. I was pretty happy with the finish and would use them again.
Probably worth mentioning if you are looking for ski gear then VBS isn’t going to be the store for you.
The Village Board Shop is a short drive from Heavenly Village and the main hub of accommodations but it is worth it. At VBS they do get less foot traffic due to their location but this means you get a better service as there are fewer customers in the store at one time.
FINDING VBS
If you are driving there is space for one car in front of the store, but there is parking around the back. To get to the store you will need to head along Route 50 towards the Bijou golf course. You should see the big VBS sign from the road.
SHORELINE OF TAHOE
If you are looking for a ski shop on the Nevada side then look no further than Shoreline. Shoreline probably had the best selection of equipment and outerwear out of all the ski stores at Heavenly. The vibe at Shoreline was pretty relaxed which is really nice for an American shopping experience with staff giving you the time to browse without being hassled.
Shoreline had a good selection of snowboards and splitboards, as well as probably one of the larger boot collections out of the various South Lake Tahoe stores. Shoreline does have a rental department and a tuning workshop so you can ensure your gear is in perfect condition.
I visited Shoreline in search of snowboard boots and I was really impressed with the knowledge of the staff and how un-pushy they were when it came to making a sale. I was a much more relaxed shopper in this environment and it made for a really nice experience.
Check out the shoreline website
FINDING SHORELINE
Getting to Shoreline is fairly simple although you will have to leave the Heavenly village area and cross the Stateline. There is ample parking outside the store and if you are hungry after all that shopping you can grab a decent burger next door.
SPORTS LTD
Possibly the biggest shop for outdoor gear at Heavenly is Tahoe Sports Ltd. Sports Ltd is basically a one-stop-shop for; skiers, snowboarders, mountain bikers, walkers, campers, and fishermen. In terms of ski and snowboard gear Sports Ltd has a good selection of hardware and soft-goods from big-name brands; Salomon, Jones, Armada, Black Diamond, and Capita but also makes room in its line up for the likes of Academy.
Sports LTD South Lake Tahoe
Sports Ltd is ideally located for those based in Heavenly Village and is one of the stores accessible without the need for a car. Because of its location, it gets a lot of custom and you can spend time waiting to be served at the peak periods. I was pretty happy with the service I received in Sports Ltd who helped me to deal with a warranty replacement, although it did seem like they didn’t really want to help initially.
If you are looking for one store that has all your needs covered then Tahoe Sports Ltd could be the best option for you. Check out their website here.
FINDING SPORTS LTD
Head towards the Heavenly gondola and in the retail park next door, you will find two Sports Ltd stores. One store is specifically for rentals and the main store has all the gear that’s for sale.
THE BOARDINGHOUSE LAKE TAHOE
The Boardinghouse Lake Tahoe gets an honorable mention on this list. The boardinghouse isn’t the largest store in Tahoe and it doesn’t have the greatest range of equipment but it is a great snowboard store. There is a refined list of brands and equipment for retail at The Boardinghouse and they have narrowed their offering to the brands they clearly trust. The friendly retail staff is on hand to assist with any questions and they are clearly knowledgeable about the products they sell. If you are not looking for a massive collection but instead want to find the most trusted brands in snowboarding, head to The Boardinghouse.
The BoardingHouse South Lake Tahoe
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Tips For Skiing and Snowboarding In Early Season
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING IN EARLY SEASON CONDITIONS ISN’T ALWAYS EASY OR NICE. WHETHER THERE IS POOR SNOW COVERAGE OR ICY RUNS, THE FOLLOWING TIPS SHOULD HELP YOU HAVE FUN AND STAY SAFE WHILST OUT ON THE SLOPES.
SNOWBOARD TO YOUR ABILITY
The early season is not the time to be pushing yourself. For most of us, early ski season is exciting as it will represent our first laps on snow for a period of months. These early days are a great opportunity to get on snow and get your body warmed up for the months ahead. So during this time keep to trails that you feel comfortable on and make sure to warm up before hitting the hill.
MAKE CONTROLLED TURNS
When adding together your first turns in months with the potential for poor snow conditions, accidents could happen. With this in mind, it’s better to slow things down and make controlled turns. By slowing down your riding in the early season you will better understand what is happening beneath your feet and prevent unwanted early-season injuries.
Photo Credit: @koudy1
LOOK AHEAD DOWN THE PISTES
Looking ahead and down the piste will help you spot any dangers or obstacles in your way. Early season snow is prone to rocks or icy patches and by keeping your eyes on your path you will be able to see them sooner meaning you can avoid them or react accordingly.
Photo Credit: @fr3nks
BEND THOSE KNEES
Flexibility at the knees is important for your stability on your skis or snowboard. By having some movement and less rigidity in your lower body you will be able to absorb any bumps in the snow and ride it out over those icy patches. Your knees will act to absorb the impact caused by bumpy snow or those pesky rocks peaking through the early season coverage.
Photo Credit: @maarten_jpg
STICK TO THE SIDES OF THE RUNS
In the early season with limited open terrain, ski resorts can get busy! Most people will ride down the centre of the runs meaning the snow quality can become sketchy with poor coverage. Try snowboarding at the side of the run where theoretically there is less traffic. At the sides, you should find better snow which will help give you confidence in your edge hold.
SCOPE YOUR RUN FROM THE CHAIRLIFT
Chairlifts are not just for a chat. Riding the chair is a great chance to see the pistes from a new perspective allowing you to make out any runs with poor conditions so they can be avoided. Scoping pistes from the chair will also help you avoid those runs that are overcrowded.
Photo Credit: @pamsaunders
FIND YOUR SPACE
There are not many things more annoying than setting yourself up for a turn only to realise your about to get cut up by someone who has snaked your run. In the early season when the pistes can become overcrowded, take your time and wait until you have enough clear space to make the turns you want. Anyway, its the perfect time to stop and enjoy the view!
I hope the above tips help you to start the season in a positive way and make the most of your days on snow. Avoiding injury early and building up your ‘ski legs’ will hopefully help you have a longer and more enjoyable season.
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I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via socials... How do you look after yourself during the early season? Do you take any precautions or do you just do your normal thing?
