WESTERN SITES GOOD FOR SPRING SKIING
What about planning a late season western ski/ride trip?
Out there, with many resorts experiencing record snowfall seasons, you will absolutely be able to find great snow well into late April and possibly early May.
That said, most resorts – even if covered in snow end to end – don’t remain 100 percent open (staffing challenges and other things can get in the way of that). But spring skiing is worthy even if you have less trails to choose from.
A great thing about spring in the west is the ability to do both winter and summer sports on the same day.
SOME GREAT CHOICES AT SPOTS THAT TEND TO STAY OPEN INCLUDE:
Banff/Ski Big 3: Of Banff’s beautiful three ski resorts (https://www.skibig3.com), Lake Louise and Sunshine Village stay open the latest, with both pushing well into May. What’s great here is that up on the peaks you’ll find lots of snow but down in the town (arguably one of the most beautiful ski towns on earth), it’s just enough warmer for things like spring hikes and even rounds of golf. And should schlepping that amount of gear scare you, here’s a spring skiing tip: rent or demo. Soft snow usually likes wider skis and, just as great, most gear is on sale so you might even find new boards to love. Bring the golf clubs; rent the skis.
Whistler/Blackcomb: Whistler Blackcomb (https:// www.whistlerblackcomb.com) stays strong through spring, usually keeping the Blackcomb side lifts spinning all the way to the end of May. With streams and rivers flowing, spring is beautiful there. On warmer days, you can even ski in the morning (and actually, first-lift skiing is encouraged late spring since conditions can deteriorate a bit as the sun warms the surface) and then take a spring hike, paddle board on one of the many nearby lakes, or just savor the spring air in the mountains. Bonus: You fly to Vancouver for a Whistler visit. In May, after you ski your heart out up on the mountain, you can enjoy a warm, seaside spring city experience less than two hours down the road.
Mammoth Mountain, California: If you’re breathing, you know the Sierra Nevadas – home of massive, history and exciting Mammoth Mountain (https:// www.mammothmountain.com) almost always pushes their season into early June – or later. Their recent record is Aug. 6. Could they beat it this year? With the snow they’ve had, one local said, “We will still be skiing on this snow next December.” Stay tuned for a probable July season there and possibly longer. Could be your chance to check “ski every month of a year” bucket list box without making the long journey to South America.
Other resorts may push closing dates in the coming weeks as well. Keep an eye on your favorites and then put a quick trip together.
There are deals in spring too, from better airfare prices (with less demand), discounts on lodging and, planned right, super cheap (and even “free” if you purchase a season pass of some kind), lift tickets.
Plus: imagine your social media cred when you post live ski trip photos while everyone else is at the beach. You’ll be lifted to ski and ride legend status immediately.