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Whistler in Spring: rain, wet snow, & powder

North America's largest ski resort, Whistler, can really offer up a mixed bag of weather conditions.

I was there last month to meet with long time guest, Deana Karas and her family. They hail from the State of Hawaii and have been coming to Whistler now for 11 years! For them, it is the convenient flights to Vancouver and the ski school for their two children, both of whom learned to ski here.

At top right, Kelsey, (16) and her dad, Stefan, pose for my camera while being assaulted with huge, thick and wet snowflakes. In the Village it was pouring rain. Witness Kelsey's "rain poncho"! (it didn't really work)

The next day, there was fresh snow high in the Alpine and great spring corn half-way down. The temperature that day in the village must have reached 15C. But look to the photo at right. This is the top of Harmony Chair taken from the Mathews trail that leads from the Peak Chair. Here winter was in full evidence with powder snow and cold winds.

Family Member wins at National Championships

This kind of weather made it difficult for the organizers and racers of the Canadian Alpine Ski Championships, being held this same time. Many racers had trouble finishing races, including my step-son, Tristan, competing in his first senior nationals. His big consolation: being a member of the provincial team that won the dual slalom, with world-cup winner, Thomas Grandi and this year's National slalom champ, Paul Stutz.

Back Bowls of Lake Louise: Best Year Ever

It should be no secret now: the Canadian Rockies have had their best snow year - ever! Right from opening day, we have been able to ski chutes, couloirs and bowls at the back of the "Lake". I remember years when we could only look up and wish they were open.
 

One Good Reason to Book Your Ski Holiday Now

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Not this year.

Heli-Skiers Tune up with CME

I no sooner returned from Whistler, when I had the pleasure of meeting and skiing with two gentlemen from the UK. John Cawood, (far right) and John Hayter, specialist surgeons, had signed up for our Pre-Heli program, prior to their week-long trip of Heli-skiing.

They were looking to add to their skills for the task coming up and to acclimatize. Needless to say, we had two marvelous days together.

Age is No excuse for Not Skiing!

Last week was a great reminder that we are only as old as we think we are. My guest was Ian Guthrie, a veterinarian who lives 60 miles west of London, England. At 69 years old, his skiing ability and fitness would show up most men half his age!

The day before, he had joined my good friend, Rob Butler, at Lake Louise, where he cheerfully skied down every bowl and chute Rob could find.

The next day, Ian and I were treated to the best groomed runs at Sunshine Village that I have experienced anywhere, in a long time. We started our day over at Goats Eye Mountain, and even though it was Good Friday, we proceeded to churn in run after glorious run, in almost complete isolation.

Springs Days during Easter

I would have to say that while March 21 is the official start to Spring in most places, for me, Easter seems to mark its arrival in the Mountains.

My family was blessed this year to be invited to spend the weekend up at the impressive, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

I learned something new this time. If you have young children, this hotel is the place for you. From baby-sitting services and a playroom to scheduled activities, pool and close access to the hill, your kids never have a lack of things to do. And you can book large suites of one or two bedrooms, with more than enough space for everyone.

To top the weekend off, we then enjoyed spring skiing at its best; with temperatures as high as 15C (60F), no wind and blue skies.

The photo at right, taken at the top of Lake Louise is (L-R) Mike Broderick, director of sales, Chateau Lake Louise, my step-son Tristan (17) and your truly.
 

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Another Happy Skier!

"My Buddy and I had a blast this weekend, the skiing was fantastic! Our hotel was very nice and the service was great. Our skis were delivered and picked up, to and from the hotel. I wanted to thank you for putting this together for us, it (the experience) was very enjoyable. I will be in touch" Rob Scheck, Alberta, March 19.

Well, I hope you had just as good a winter as we did. Until next time...

Warm regards,

Hugh Tafel - Founder & President

P.S. Guarantee next the price for next year by clicking here or call our toll-free number; 1-888-867-5448 for fastest service. HT