Ski Resorts
Choose Canada
It looks like Gavin over at Afterbang is planning a snowboarding trip to Canada, and has a whole section about his thoughts. Being a dude from Canada with a snowboarding obsession, it makes for interesting reading. Obviously he’s looking at the usual suspects out west – Kicking Horse, Banff and the like.
One thing that caught me off guard but makes total sense is the fact that Europeans look at Canadian mountains as small. I get so used to running into other Canadians and Americans at places like Whistler that I forget Canada has big mountains compared to other North American resorts; but we ain’t got nothing on Europe.
Gavin – you’ll like the terrain and the pow, and you’ll like the atmosphere itself even more. 
On a personal note, I am weighing similar options for 2008, and it looks like Banff is winning so far. Having three big ski areas nearby is a good deal, though I’m none to pleased I’ll have to figure out how to travel between each from a home base in Banff. Although I love Whistler, I think it’s time to try something new. Though thanks to Aeroplan and Air Miles, I just might visit both this winter. We’ll see.
Discussion
5 comments for “Choose Canada”
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Adam
I have lived in Banff for 30 years and for all that time
there has been daily subsidized buses to all the big 3 ski areas from Banff. There is an argument right now between the hotels and the ski areas as who should pay what of the subsidy but i am sure that will be resolved before the fall.
There are also buses to Kicking Horse and Nakiska on a less frequent basis.
Thanks! Yes, everything seems quite accessible from what I’m learning. How close is Kicking Horse? I didn’t realize I might be able to get there, too.
Cheers,
–adam
Hey Adam,
Talking with friends has outstripped my ability to update the blog with my thoughts on the various destinations… I think I’ll probably post them anyway, some people may be interested 
it looks like we’ve settled on Fernie
I think you’re going to be right about the terrain, powder and atmosphere. One the friends I’m going out there with has spent a fair amount of time riding in Canada, and really rates the terrain and the vibe. I’m really looking forward to it.
No doubt there are people reading this with more knowledge – but from what I’ve heard, Kicking Horse is around a 2 hour bus ride from Banff, and I think they do packages with the journey and lift ticket all rolled into one.
Hope everything’s going good with the rehab, and if you fancy meeting up for a bit of shredding in Fernie, just let me know!
Gav
Hey dude,
When’s your trip planned for? We just might be in the same area at the same time.
Although judging by your videos I’m pretty sure you could kill me on the slopes.
–adam
Hey,
I’m pretty sure it’s going to be the last week in January and the first week in Feb, something like the 26th Jan – 9th Feb. If it’s an option, then I’ll keep you posted with our plans – I reckon it would be pretty cool!
Gav