Many of us who have come to Fernie have done so for a common reason – snow. To be a part of this vibrant mountain community involves a variety of recreational activities and in the winter months there’s no question that alpine skiing and snowboarding are the activities of choice for many locals and visitors. It’s common knowledge that many small businesses and operations in our community also depend on this attraction.
I have worked in British Columbia as a ski patroller for the past seven winters at three different resorts. There’s no doubt that this season has been the one with the least amount of snow. Working in the industry allows me to see locals and visitors alike in a variety of snow and weather conditions. Even in some of the best seasons I have come across people who feel they are entitled to at least 20 cm of powder every day they go skiing.
Throughout this winter I have overheard comments, had conversations and have come across social media opinions stating how bad the conditions are at Fernie Alpine Resort. As mentioned above, this winter hasn’t provided me with my usual amount of powder days, however I believe people get much more from skiing in the mountains than just that magical feeling of floating through deep snow. Many of the negative comments come from a place of entitlement and are exaggerated, coming from people who haven’t put their skis on in a month because the conditions are so “bad.” The practice of gratitude reverses negative patterns of looking outwardly for satisfaction and reminds us to be present with the gifts that already surround us.
This season, just like any other season I have seen many familiar faces skiing day in and day out. My hat goes off to those locals who I like to refer to as “purebreds.” Why are these people skiing in such “miserable” conditions? Well the fact of the matter is, the conditions aren’t so terrible that pleasure and good times are impossible to find.
What could possibly be bad about skiing Polar Peak on a bluebird day? With the sun beating down on you and the rest of the valley, the view from anywhere on the upper mountain is always breathtaking. The grooming department does a tremendous job making this ski run from 2,100 metres a quality experience! How about skiing a fresh groomer in Lizard Bowl putting your skis on edge travelling at speeds that always get your heart racing? Then there’s the friendship, the socializing and joy of a warm drink or a cold beer that can always cap off the day.
There’s no covering up the lack of snow coverage on the lower mountain (although the snowmakers are doing their part). There’s no denying this winter isn’t the billboard season of the century. However, there’s still almost two-meters of snow in the alpine. There are many ski resorts all over the world where a two-metre snowpack is an amazing year and these resorts still have a portion of their local economy and tourism industry that is supported by skiing.
I’m grateful to be skiing. At all. Period. There’s something about the mountain air and the pristine landscape that makes me feel good! I can tell when I say hello to the “purebreds” getting off the chair that they too are grateful to be sliding on the side of a beautiful mountain basking in the sun!
Erich Leidums