There’s been a definite change in the weather this past week — a hint of frost, more than a hint of snow in the mountains — all indications that our long, beautiful fall is over and winter has arrived.
However, snow on the hill means all thoughts turn to the coming ski season. Last winter was a bit difficult with Kimberley Alpine Resort staff making the most of a low snow year. But even with El Niño predicted to continue to affect weather patterns, hope springs eternal at the beginning of every season.
The Resort is ready to start snow-making as the weather cools, but VP of Marketing for KAR’s parent company, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, Matt Mosteller, says that they are sensitive to the low-water issues still being experienced in Kimberley
“We are working with the city to find best way to reduce water needs and as well we are in the process of starting up snow making,” Mosteller said. “It is of vital importance that we do everything we can to reduce and manage the water resource respectfully and responsibly for best community interest.
“We are also doing all we can to get Kimberley Alpine Resort ready for ski season and want to drive awareness for snow on the mountain so people can pre-book their vacation plans, as an important economic driver for our community and team.”
On mountain conditions will be easier than ever to get this year with the new RCR Ski App. You will be able to check the weather conditions, snow report, mountain status updates and more.
Also new the Easter Chair unload station has received an expansion – now larger for this winter season making it safer and easier to exit the chair.
Also new, starting in November, Integra Air will fly a 16 passenger aircraft appropriately named “Spirit of the Kootenays” eight times a week from YYC (Calgary International Airport) to YXC (Cranbrook International Airport).
There is also an extensive race calendar for the coming season at KAR.
Jan 31 & Feb 1 – Kootenay Zone GS Race
Feb 2 & 3 – Kootenay Zone Speed Camp
Feb 4,5 & 6 – Kimberley Osisko Speed Camp
Feb 7 – Kimberley Night Slalom
Feb 8,9,10,11 & 12 – Kimberley FIS Speed Series
Feb 23, 24, 25 & 26 – Kimberley IPC NorAm Speed Series
Mar 26, 27, 28 & 29 – Kimberley Canadian Master Championships