Weekend Snow Report: Jan 20, 2012
Resort Picks
Our resort picks for this weekend are Fernie and Castle. Both had huge snowfall this week and combined with cooler temperatures make for that light fluffy snow that we all love. Rather than try to describe the conditions out there, take a look at this video shot at Fernie earlier this week. If this doesn't make you want to drop whatever you're doing and drive out there now I don't know what will.
To be honest though, all the resorts got some decent snowfalls this week so no matter where you are just get out there!
Backcountry Conditions
The avalanche danger rating through most of BC and Southern Alberta looks to be quite high for the weekend. Very heavy amounts of dense snow are expected to fall creating a very unstable snow pack (coastal and interior BC). There looks to be less risk if you stick to below treeline in the Kananaskis area, but rising temperatures over the weekend (above freezing) could cause some instability there as well. Be sure to check the latest bulletins if you're thinking about heading into the backcountry this weekend: http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/bulletins/latest
World Snow Day - Sunday January 22
This is a worldwide event geared at getting kids out to enjoy winter activities. You can expect family fun in Ice carving, marshmallow roasting, and specials for kids. In our neck of the woods, you can find people celebrating world snow day at the Canmore Nordic Centre, Mounty Norquay, Lake Louise, and Sun Peaks. Check out the website for more info: http://www.world-snow-day.com/
Avalanche Awareness Days
Want to learn how to use a beacon, talk about snow profiles, or witness an avalanche dog demonstration? The Canadian Avalanche Centre is hosting events in most mountain communities and ski hills across Canada this weekend. Check out which hills are participating here: http://www.avalanche.ca/cac/
CBC's Real Ski Report
Check out this audio feed from CBC Radio's weekly 'Real Ski Report'. A few good first hand reports from the hills, cross-country trails, and backcountry areas.
http://www.cbc.ca/eyeopener/