 |
BANFF, AB – Goat’s Eye mountain will remain open until the May long weekend, thanks to the best snow conditions at Sunshine Village in 41 years.
Goat’s Eye normally closes two weeks before the Slush Cup weekend, but a settled snow pack of 230 cm ensures the popular mountain is likely to last into late May.
As with all openings, run openings are weather dependent. But, if this winter’s trends continue, the popular Scapegoat, Rolling Thunder and Wildfire runs could stay in business until the May long weekend, says Jeremy Cox, Ski Patrol Supervisor. The most challenging double-blacks, like Hell’s Kitchen and South Side Chutes, will operate as long as they are deemed safe.
Since Jan. 1, Sunshine has seen above average snowfalls. The month of March brought along record-breaking snowfall – its 215 centimetres was the largest amount of snow in Sunshine’s 41 years of recorded history. That’s an average of 6.9 centimetres a day over the month.
All named runs are open, including the world-famous free-ride terrain Delirium Dive and Wild West.
This year, the Strawberry Jam spring live music series kicks off with a bang. Gilby Clarke, one-time guitar hero from Guns N’ Roses, leads off four weeks of shows, with two killer days, April 30 and May 1. For those who just want the music, gondola-only passes are available.
The Coors Light Cold Party is on the same weekend. On May 7th & 8th, rising country star Adam Gregory takes the stage, followed by George Canyon on May 14th &15th. The incomparable 83rd annual Slush Cup weekend rocks through May 21st, 22nd & 23rd, featuring the reggae-inflected live sounds of New Moon. The 23rd is the big day when thousands gather to watch the brave and hardy attempt to ski across a massive pond of ice water.