Powder alerts have been appearing in email inboxes across the world as Fernie Alpine Resort celebrates a promising start to the 2018/19 winter season.
The snow was initially slow to arrive but is now coming in droves. As of press time December 20, FAR had received nearly three metres of snow this season, including 30cm in 48 hours.
This has translated to increased bookings for the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies-owned ski resort, with U.S. and long haul markets in particular up “significantly”, according to RCR Senior Vice President, Marketing and Resort Experience, Matt Mosteller.
“We continue to do our snow dances, thank you Griz,” he said, referencing a local legend about a mythical man who brings snow to the Elk Valley.
“Everyday we are grateful for the Griz and for our community.”
FAR will welcome Epic Pass holders for the first time this season after RCR partnered with Vail Resorts.
Under the deal announced in March, Fernie season pass holders get half price lift tickets at all Vail-owned mountain resorts and Epic Pass holders are encouraged to visit the Elk Valley.
“We are excited to welcome Epic Pass holders from around the world, many who will be visiting Fernie for the first time,” said Mosteller.
Looking back on 2018, Mosteller said highlights for FAR included being featured in Helly Hansen’s worldwide marketing campaign, Warren Miller film Line of Descent and the work of local photographer and videographer, Dylan Siggers.
“We are so proud of the incredible stories, videos and content he produces each year,” said Mosteller.
The resort continues to garner the attention of national and international media, with coverage by publications including Outside, SKI Magazine, The New York Times, Men’s Journal and The Globe and Mail.
It is also benefiting from the arrival of low-cost airline WestJet at Cranbrook airport and the launch of Timber Landing, a community of ski-in estate lots next to the resort base.
At a community level, FAR continues to support non-profits and volunteer organizations through its Summit Fund, which has provided financial assistance to more than 150 groups and projects.
Going forward, Mosteller said the resort will focus on growing awareness and driving interest in Fernie, while providing a safe and fun environment for its staff and guests.
“We are so fortunate to live in and work in this incredible environment,” he said.
Special events this winter include the Jeep Jr Freeski presented by Rossignol and Smith Optics, Monster Energy Boarderstyle, Dirty Dancer Banked Slalom, Raging Elk Powder Pedal Paddle and Fernival.
Visit Skifernie.com for more information.
