The avalanche danger in the Fernie region is perhaps the most dangerous in years.   It is a season to listen carefully to the Canadian Avalanche Association and have a realistic definition of what “backountry experience” means.  Here is the latest CAA report:

The Canadian Avalanche Association has issued a Special Avalanche Warning  for large portions of BC and part of SW Alberta including this forecast region.  Travel Advice –  Poor, Not Recommended

Guidance for amateur recreation: Avalanches are occurring frequently.  Inappropriate conditions for backcountry travel without extensive avalanche training and experience.

If you travel in the backcountry be really, really careful. The Avalanche Activity and Snowpack sections of this forecast paint the picture. The Weather section suggests why avalanche danger will increase: snow hates rapid loading by a bunch of new wind driven snow. It also hates rapid loading by riders - skiing, boarding, & sledding can easily stress this snowpack beyond its strength. Rider triggered avalanches remain probable, if not likely. Don’t be tricked by the Considerable danger rating, even if there aren’t natural avalanches you don’t want to mess with this snowpack. Think of it like a minefield - there are lots of trigger points (landmines), they’re sensitive (easy to detonate), and avalanches can be big (large bombs). If you choose to ride in the backcountry, please stick to low angle slopes well away from avalanche terrain.

How much experience do the kids in the following picture have?  Unfortunately they have similar training as some who travel in the backcountry and call themselves experienced.  Lets be safe out there!

I cannot remember a Christmas in Fernie without powder and this year was to be no exception.  The legend came true as Santa and the Griz delivered 32 cm’s of powder snow for Christmas day!

For any non-believers here is proof that Santa exists.

The base is only 75cm’s however Fernie’s best kept secret is grass.  I know what your thinking however I’m referring to the slopes being covered with grass that makes for great skiing without the snow required at other resorts.

The highlight at the resort this holiday season is the opening of Corner Pocket Brasserie at the Griz Inn.  Most of you already know the hosts, Zack, Lilis and Claude who operate the Club House at the Fernie Golf and Country Club and former Corner Pocket at the Grand Central. Brasserie means an unpretentious restaurant, tavern, or the like, that serves drinks, esp. beer, and simple or hearty food.  Their menu exceeds this definition and is a must for all you foodies.  The beer is also excellent and they are pouring a full selection Fernie’s Brewing’s award winning products.

Those of you who might be questioning the size of the ski poles beside the Timber chair, they belong to the Griz and yes, the legend is real. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family!

Yesterday was Fernie’s opening day, one week later than scheduled and at least one week earlier that the beginning of good skiing. Temperatures were well in the negative with wind chill around -25c.  This Arctic weather is expected to remain entrenched for a week or so.  The millions recently spent on snowmaking will be paying dividends.  The lower mountain should soon have a solid artificial snow base providing some good skiing.

The less than optimal skiing is providing time for boot fitting and wine sipping at Fernie’s finest service shop.  Top Shelf, located in the Griz Inn, continues to enhance performance and keep skiers smiling!

The long range forecast has snow coming on Dec 23rd.   A snow cycle of 50cm will open the mountain bowls and fulfill the Legend of the Griz. Think positive!

The Griz received his annual offering of a substantial brain cell sacrifice and locals are expecting a sudden abundance of snow in return.  Ah, the annual Mogul Smoker, one fine party where skis are burnt and intoxicating drinks ‘Mogul Smokers’ ( a blend of rum, Kahula, coffee and hot chocolate) are consumed in large quantity.  Every year all those attending are reminded of the kick from the drink.

This 30 year tradition has netted great results in the past.  Expect a sudden change of weather and perhaps the ski hill opening on schedule.

Here are a few pictures from this years Old School Mogul Smoker:

The shoulder season can offer the unexpected.  I was anticipating skiing this week however the weather warmed and I’m riding my mtn bike.  In past November’s I’ve kayaked the Elk River at flood levels.  This year I’m hoping to have another surf at the Ghostrider wave.  Skiing, biking, kayaking, surfing, hiking…it’s a big shoulder season to be enjoyed one day and one activity at a time!

The valley is golden and soon will be white, covered under a blanket of soft snow. Signs of snow are visible however the Griz has not unleashed his musket. With the colour change come a change of life. Bikes and runners will be stored, and skis, snowshoes, winter boots, snow tires, shovels, snowmobiles, and other items will emerge.

Here are a few pics from the resort. The snow guns remain idle, the chairs and t’s are hung, new trails have been cleared and the Bears Den is in repair.

Hopefully the stars and planets will soon align and the Griz will speak.

Fernie’s public school children are enjoying a great effort by retired Principal Frank Lento who organized the funding and implemented construction of the new playground.  Well done Frank!

The Summer of 08 might be legendary for the paddlers, bikers and fire fighters however it has been less than nerve-racking for those tasked with haying. Here are a few images of my neighbours haying:

Fernie’s Mountain Market continues to draw a nice balance of vendors ad the park next door is perfect for a family outing. New this year that denotes mention are the home made “boiled” bagels and the Meals To Go booth is serving hot food.

Fresh fruit and vegies, Beckies cup cakes and the many arts and craft vendors make the market a must visit in Fernie. The market is held at Rotery Park on Hwy 3 beside the Park Place Lodge every Sunday from 10am to 2pm.

Skiing is an obsession that has taken me to where I am today, Fernie. Early season I ski every day however at this point in the season my desire wanes and I find myself thinking about surfing, cycling, caving and snowmobiling…what?

I must clarify than when it snows my obsession returns, spring powder is the best! Last Tuesdays cycle of 22cms of dense pow everything one could hope for. Everything was open and ripped from bowl to bowl.
Powder days and adventure do exist outside the world of resort skiing. On a sunny day last week I ventured to Fernie’s towering four-season playground, the Three Sisters, for the fun of it.

Following is Al’s photo essay of one deep cave and a fun day.