Back in action for 2011/12!

DOC POW

JASPER, AB — Five months is a long time to wait for anything. Waiting five months to get back on a snowboard is pretty near glacial.

A lot of friends and family say I’ve got it pretty good with SnowSeekers — we're always out on the boards exploring the slopes of Western Canada — but it’s not easy when you're “in work mode” during August and September.

To say I was chomping at the bit Thursday night is more than an understatement. But as you can see from this quick video I made from the day — Opening Day at Marmot Basin on Friday, November 11 — all is right with the world once again.

Man, it’s great to be back in action! Mountain air, skiers' cheeks and a cold beer at the end of the day. The season is back!!! 

And if you are unsure about going to the mountains this early, just hit it. Lake Louise and Marmot are open now with discounts in effect, and Sunshine opens up this Thursday, Nov. 17 (confirmed!). 

Snow is falling, you are sitting in the hot tub with a bevy, allowing your muscles to unwind after a stellar day. Photo courtesy of Doc Pow

And not only is it about the on-the-slopes action, but how great is it to be back in the hot tub for après?! Snow is falling, you are sitting in the hot tub with a bevy, allowing your muscles to unwind after a stellar day. While in Jasper we called the Mount Robson Inn our base camp, and it features some great suites that can include kitchens (if you need them) and an awesome set of outdoor hot tubs.

Check out our story on the Mount Robson Inn here.

For the full lowdown on opening dates to your favorite destination across either province, click here. And to check out the snow that's falling on Marmot Basin over the next couple of days, be sure to stay locked to our snow conditions page.