Local ski resorts are gearing up for an “epic” 2024 ski and snowboard season, with opening weekend just around the corner.
Nelson’s Whitewater Ski Resort opens on Friday, December 6, followed by Rossland’s Red Mountain Resort on Saturday, December 7.
It’s shaping up to be a significantly better season than last year. Whitewater has recorded a total snowfall accumulation of 248 cm, with a current base of 119 cm.
Meanwhile, Red Mountain saw its second snowiest November in 19 years, with a total snowfall of 190 cm, allowing the resort to open a week early.
For opening weekend at Whitewater, the Raven, Silver King, and Summit chairs will be spinning, along with the Hummer Handle Tow.
Outdoor Operations Manager David Michael says the Glory Chair should be running by next weekend.
“The grooming out here is better than it’s been for early season in a number of years. The skiing is incredible right now. So, as far as terrain goes, there’ll be Summit and Silver King side, with Glory coming next week.”
Riders will be able to explore an additional 60 acres of expert-level terrain this year, with Whitewater’s expansion into the Ymir Bowl. Michael says the new Goats Terrain will offer fresh tree slopes and powder for riders to explore, but only when it’s safe.
“This year, we’re bringing in part of the Ymir Bowl, the Goats area, which is different from last year. Last year, that was outside the ski boundary, but this year it’s within the ski boundary. There will be points when there’s an elevated avalanche hazard where we’ll close that area and restrict access until we can mitigate the risk.”
November brought what Michael calls an “epic” amount of snowfall. However, skiers and snowboarders should still be cautious, as early-season conditions persist.
“It’s still early December, and early-season conditions are out there. Skiers and riders should remember to ride with care. There are still some lurking hazards. The skiing is great—better than we’ve had the last couple of years—but take it easy for the first couple of weeks.”
At Red Mountain, the Red Chair, Silverlode, T-Bar, and Magic Carpet will be running for opening weekend. The resort said in a social media post that it aims to have Motherlode, Paradise, Topping, and, hopefully, Grey Chair open by December 14.
Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyKootenayNow News Alerts.
