Sunday, May 11, 2008

Spring Silliness

While early March was sunny and warm, we thought Spring had finally arrived. However, Fernie had other ideas and gave us about 3 weeks of snow to finish the season (which ended on April 6). In the end we had over 11 metres of snow for the season. They closed the mountain with a 3.5m snow base (that's over 3 metres of snow above the ground, covering the whole mountain). Crazy.
The sign of a good day to come, as long as you don't have to work.
This is where you go down.
And this is where you come out. The dot is Bella making her own tracks. By the end of the season there wasn't a run on the mountain she wouldn't attempt. Not bad from starting from nothing 4 months ago. It takes the right snow conditions (as in, lots of it but enough time to clear it for avalanches, normally the day after) and a long traverse to reach this run. Although it is well worth it.

The river that runs through town that was once snowed over is now running well.

DUMMY DOWNHILL


Take a couple of skis, a variety of designs, a bit of arts & craft time and launch them over a jump. Result is the dummy downhill.



This entry made it to the snow bank on the far side of the parking lot. Others barely got air and some veered of course and obliterated into the side walls sending carnage everywhere.

HOT DOG DAY

For some the highlight of the season. A day to celebrate the roots of skiing in the 80's in all its spendour. Just one big party.

This is where its at.
Denim. As Canadian as maple syrup. Say no more.
Fatties on blades.
The midway party. Just a small gathering of cool cats.

One cool skier.The big party, on a quieter run, out the back.
And entertainment for all.
Spread Eagles were the order of the day.
Back scratches too.
And one big party back at the Griz Bar after they closed the lifts.