Ski resorts in final push to opening days

above: Ptarmigan Run, Lake Louise, Oct 26

Halloween might come without snow on the ground in Alberta and BC's cities and towns, but ski resorts are already accumulating snow and more is on the way! Snow farming, snow making, patrol training and stoke building are all underway at your favourite resorts right now.

Time to fall back this Sunday, November 2 (you're welcome), and then spring into skiing with a Nov 7 target opening date. 

While you wait, check out how ski resorts are getting ready, and get set for opening day! 

And be sure to enter our season pass contest by Nov 3, for a chance to ski or ride the season for FREE, on us. Let's dive in.

First snow for Mount Washington 

Ullr flipped the switch on Washy in under 24 hours. Check it out:


Whistler Blackcomb guns going 

Snow making season started on Sunday at Whistler, meaning that ski resorts are seeing temperatures cool enough and consistent enough to start building their bases.


Sunshine trail crew at work 

Snow farming is underway as well, here's a look at what the work crews are up to.


Safety training at Lake Louise 

Pre-season prep for patrol includes practicing chair evacuation to ensure public safety:


Banff Mtn Fest brings the stoke 

In its 50th year, Banff Mountain Festival is a pre-season stoke fest. Sherpas Cinema premieres The Mighty Quay, on Norquay's 100 year anniversary, one of many ski films to whet your appetite.


Who's opening first? 

The countdown is on to Nov 7, the targeted opening date for skiing in Western Canada. 

But who will be first? Lake Louise, Sunshine, Mount Norquay and Nakiska are traditionally top contenders. 

With Mount Norquay celebrating its 100th season, expect them to look for an iconic start. But Lake Louise and Sunshine are always keen for firsts. 

Who will open first, and when, to start the season? Comment on this post with your best guess.

Will you be there opening day? 

We loved seeing SnowSeekers reader Darryl Kolewaski's comment on this post, with his opening day plans: "Hotels already booked. Plan on doing Lake Louise one day and Sunshine the next!"

That's the kind of strategy that will score you an awesome start to your ski season.

Of course, as mentioned off the top, you could be skiing or riding all season for FREE, if you are signed up to our free newsletter. So sign up, and get the snow updates, travel tips and stoke you need to fuel your best winter yet.