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| 24hr Snow | 0 cm | 7 Day Snow | 28 cm | Snowbase | 222 cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Temp | +4 °C | Valley Temp | +13 °C | Conditions | Spring Conditions (Hard then Slush) |
What a difference a few days can make – last week we were skiing nice powder all day long (and basically to the valley) and then today was blistering hot, with ‘true’ Spring skiing conditions. For those unfamiliar with Spring skiing, it basically means the snow becomes very ’slushy’ due to the heat of the day melting it. It is actually a lot of fun to ski in, and many people only like skiing in Spring.
The only thing to be aware of is – the nights are generally still fairly cold, which means the melted snow refreezes and becomes ‘bulletproof’ for the first few hours. By midday though, the snow has melted again and is the fun slush. So this means we can all start sleeping in a bit, with the conditions not very nice in the morning, but improving around 10am and fantastic by noon.
The forecast looks like it is going to stay warm, so I guess winter is finally over (short that it was). We might get a little bit of snow this week / weekend, but it should be rain in the valley.
The snow coverage is great, with skiing down to the valley still open via all the runs. We were a little worried about having to download early this season, but the late snow storms we got (which brought snow to the whole mountains) have resulted in a decent base (I think) at the village level. With the temperatures rising now though, it will be interesting to watch just how fast it all melts. Still, it is good news for everyone staying in ski in / ski out locations for this Spring.
Don’t forget that Easter is coming up this weekend, so it will probably be a busy one. Also, the Whistler Ski and Snowboard Festival is scheduled for April 17 – 26th. It is a awesome festival, with lots of fun (and free) activities/concerts. Some of my favorites are the ‘Big Air’, backcountry events (which I think are canceled this year), photographer and filmmaker showdowns, all the free music concerts and who can miss the annual ‘dogfest’ 
Check out the official site for information.
So get out there and enjoy the slush – it is especially great for those of you who want to learn or perfect a trick or jump. The soft snow is very forgiving on your landings, and also when you fall.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen !! The sun is very strong at higher altitudes, and right now there are ‘goggle tans’ popping up everywhere.
Hey Greg,
Winter might not be over just yet. Check out the latest long-range forecast:
http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Whistler-Blackcomb/6day/top
Sure wish I was still in town.
We are headed up April 11-16, so that long range forecast looks excellent!! I especially like the part about “heavy snow” on the 11th.
Greg, we should meet up for a beer – I owe you at least one, as your updates have kept me going while sitting here in Detroit in my windowless office..
I wouldn’t get too excited about the forecast – snowforecast.com has been unreliable this year and I personally think the freezing levels are going to stay pretty high. Still, we should get some snow in the alpine, which will be fun – just be ready for rain in the valley.
Scott, we can meet up for a beer or two for sure. Why don’t you get in touch with me through the contact form on the ‘About’ page and we can organize a time.