Outdoors enthusiasts urged to be prudent and patient

Pay attention to the weather, traffic conditions, and social distancing guidelines, but still, do get outside and get some fresh air.

That's the message coming from George Heyman, B.C.'s environment minister, this pandemic-altered holiday season. Heyman spoke to reporters Monday at the base of Mt. Seymour Ski Resort where skiers, snowboarders and snowshoers started their days with a good dump of fresh powder.

“It's going to be a different holiday season this year, but we want to encourage people to get out and enjoy the health and benefits of being outside in amazing winter weather like this,” Heyman said.

“We also want to make sure that people stay safe, stay inbounds, ensure that you pack for the weather. We also want you to pack a little bit of patience.”

Staff were stopping vehicles on the way up to the resort to ask to see reservations, and to check for winter tires.

By mid-afternoon the mountain had closed the road to uphill traffic while plows tried to improve the tough driving conditions.

Eddie Wood, the head of the resort, said the mountain had instituted a new online reservation system to help manage volume in the downhill area.

Those headed to other areas of the park are welcome, but parking is on a first come, first served basis, Wood said.

Jennie Aikman, B.C. Parks' regional director for the South Coast region, said there is now roadside signage at the foot of Mt. Seymour advising of traffic conditions, and she said people can also check the B.C. Parks website or Twitter page for similar information.

“We're expecting unprecedented use this winter because everybody wants to come up and recreate in these amazing spaces. We're encouraging you to pack your patience, be safe, plan ahead and do your research before you come,” Aikman said.

Sandra Riches, the head of B.C. AdventureSmart, said she wanted people heading out for fun in the snow to follow three Ts: trip plan, train, and take essentials.

Those heading into the backcountry will want to proceed with care.

Avalanche Canada's danger ratings for the Sea to Sky region were listed as considerable for the alpine and treeline Monday, with conditions expected to improve to moderate into the week.