The Northern Issue | SnowsBest

SNOWS BEST THE NORTHERN ISSUE Out

Unlike anywhere else?

Yip. Here’s why...

For starters, it’s not crowded.

And the snow is incredible, because of, well, British Columbia winters.

And the runs are endless, which means tired legs will be stoked to sink into the country’s largest slope-side outdoor hot pools. Let that soak in!

The accommodation is right beside the lifts, our team is super-friendly, and well, it’s Canada, eh? The only thing stuck up here is the top of the mountain. It’s all pretty chill.

(Except for the hot pools. Those are warm.)

It could be just like anywhere else, but it ain’t. Come on over. There’s plenty of room.

Contents

Zermatt, via Unsplash

Joshua Earle and cover image by Sophie-the-laya via Unsplash

REGULARS

ED LETTER

OUR TEAM

HOW TO (POWDER SKI) GREEN GEAR

PIMP MY CHAIR RIDE - quirky chairlifts of the world

THE BIG THREE, WHO WINS? – Chamonix | Verbier | Jackson Hole

CAR FREE SKI TOWNS – prettiest pedestrian snow villages

SNOW CAMP – a ski/board improvement camp for everyone

EURO SCHUSS – the best backcountry secrets of Europe

MY SHINTO HOME – Japan’s coolest ancient ski town, Nozawa Onsen

HOW SKIING BECAME MY HAPPY PLACE –when the mountains heal

CHOW DOWN – ski town food to tick off your list

ADVENTURES BEST – when the chairlifts stop, the action begins

A TO Z OF JAPOW – 26 things we love about Japan

MY FIRST LOVE – when Aspen Snowmass beguiled a first timer

Welcome

Hola Snows Besties (see what I did there)

Snow banter may be our business but it’s also our life love.

I remember falling in love, the first time skiing north of the equator. You never forget it really, all that deep winter powder, different accents, après rituals and the people, oh the people.

My first time was in Colorado, a dream trip from Denver to Vail to Beaver Creek, Aspen and Telluride. I was hooked.

I’ve lost count of how many northern resorts and adventure heli, cat and backcountry experiences I’ve had in the USA, Canada, Japan and Europe since. The friends I’ve made, memories created, good times and eyes wide opened have already lasted a lifetime.

Skiing and snowboarding is a bonding experience, it brings strangers together across shores and creates a high vibrational energy few leisure sports can come close to. The combination of mountain landscapes, physical challenge and chairlift chats remind us all we’re alive and living, not just surviving.

After the last two years of mental and pandemic stress, we’re all itching to click into our skis and snowboards again and feel the freedom of floating on deep powder, cutting through buttery groomers and dining on s’mores, katsu don, fondue, poutine and the like.

This is our first SnowsBest e-mag and we’ve gone overboard with 70 of pages dedicated to northern hemisphere skiing and snowboarding. From the highest peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the backcountry gems of Europe, the steeps and deeps of the USA and the wonder of Japan, we’ve curated the best snow loving writers to inspire your northern dreaming.

Go north and prosper.

Rach aka Miss Snow It All

Rachael Oakes-Ash rachael@snowsbest.com IG/FB @misssnowitall

Our Team

We’ve sourced some of the best content creators, writers and photographers in the snow world to give you the lowdown on their favourite northern snow destinations.

Abigail BUTCHER

Abigail Butcher is a national newspaper journalist based in the UK, specialising in global ski and adventure travel. “I loved writing about the “Big Three” (Verbier, Chamonix, Jackson Hole) as adventure skiing is in my soul, so these three resorts are as much at the top of my bucket list as they are anyone else’s.”

IG: @abijbutcher

Mark DAFFEY

Travel writer and photographer Mark Daffey is a sucker for accepting travel assignments that quench his thirst for adventure with CNN, Audi and Fairfax. In this issue Mark reveals some of the best adventures and skill improvement camps to be had in the mountains.

IG: @markdaffey

Kate ALLMAN

Kate Allman is a long time sports reporter, presents for Channel TEN and writes for a range of ski and travel publications including Escape, The Guardian, Surfing Life and Forbes. Kate reveals her first northern love, Aspen, for The Northern Issue with a heart-felt personal story of powder days under Colorado skies.

IG: @kateallman_

Christine SCHIEDEL

Christine Schiedel is a long time art director and designer for Australia’s best national magazines. A skier who swapped to snowboarding this year, she loves an adventure and dreams of hitting up the Canadian Rockies for a powder fix this northern season. IG: @christineschiedel

Contributors: Natalia Jastrzab, Alyson Lamb, Alex Parsons

Contributing photographers: Chris Hocking, Darren Teasdale, Shaun Mittwollen, Jen McLean

We all have those friends who are solid for life, no matter how much time has passed nor how much geographical distance, when you get together it’s just like yesterday that you saw each other. That, for me, is Canada.

WHEN WINTER MEANS

Canada

BY RACHAEL OAKES-ASH

WITH SNOW LADEN MOUNTAIN PEAKS , wild coastlines, azure lakes, urban style and northern lights is as big as the hearts of the locals with their knitted toques and quirky laidback humour.

Canada is the home of winter for lovers of winter.

The Canadian Rockies run 1480km long and 180kms wide, taking up 194,000 square kilometres across the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta. Add up to 17 metres of powder snowfall and it’s no surprise that commercial heli skiing was birthed here, that 21 cat skiing lodges are based here and that hundreds of ski resorts are dotted across Canada’s wide lands.

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve clicked into skis and touched snow in these parts but I have not forgotten my first time ticking off Canadian rights of passage. The thigh burn of skiing North America’s largest ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb, and the peak to creek ski run followed by the first Bloody Caesar at GLC bar topped with enough garnish to make a meal on its own.

The first cinnamon scroll dripping with

frosting at Paradise Camp at Okanagan’s prettiest pedestrian ski village, SilverStar, after hitting up the back side steeps and front side groomers. That one time I skied with Canadian Olympic legend, Nancy Greene, on her hosted ski tours at Sun Peaks, when Big White resort served up snow laden tree monsters to duck, dart and dive in on a bluebird ski day and when Panorama Mountain Resort revealed the cat accessed back Taynton Bowl for the off-piste powder lover.

Tackling Canada’s mountains by road trip always tugs at the heart - the fjord side Sea to Summit drive from Vancouver to Whistler, the spectacular Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper and the famed Powder Highway. At every turn there’s another Instagram worthy view that wins the internet with more lakes, more rivers, more peaks and even ferries that transport cars across water ways to more roads with more views.

Dotted along the Powder Highway are lakeside hot springs for soaking and the cutest old school ski towns with mining or railway heritage, filled with multi coloured houses gentrified by artisans who roast coffee and distil local botany and spring water into gins and vodkas and beers.

These cute as a button towns service big mountain ski resorts – Fernie Alpine Resort for multiple ridge lines, Red Mountain Resort for steeps and deeps and huts hidden in the woods, Whitewater Ski Resort for lift accessed powder runs and award winning après fare, Revelstoke Mountain Resort for the largest vertical in North America, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort for views and terrain to both soothe and challenge.

Then there’s the town of Banff, a mere two hours drive from Calgary and the gateway to Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Norquay resorts. If you head into Canada’s ski terrain from east to west, this is where you’ll land, in a fairy tale mountain region that boasts

Maligne Lake Road Jasper, Destination Canada/Celina Frisson

a castle, a chateau and a frozen lake for ice skating in a mountain amphitheatre.

Then there’s the road from Banff National Park north to Jasper National Park and Marmot Basin Ski Resort. The kind of national parks that imprint themselves in your skin and lure you back to bathe in nature with memories that show themselves when you’re back at the office wondering where the days went.

And all along this way are those crazy Canucks who consider axe throwing an après sport, will push you off a ledge with a bungee cord into snow lined ravines, take you ice fishing in a tiny cabin, to the local ice hockey game, invite you in a helicopter to a mountain top for fondue or that Canadian “delicacy” know as poutine (hot chips and gravy with cheese curd).

Another world opens when heli skiing and cat skiing comes into play. When that helicopter takes you and your friends and your skis and snowboard into the remote wilderness and drops you on a peak before disappearing into the skies, you know you are living. Surrounded by snow so light and so dry you can’t make a snowball and a blank canvas upon which to place your ski tracks. It’s truly the pinnacle for any skier or boarder.

Then, when the snow legs are done and nature is still calling you can head to the arctic landscapes of the Northwest Territories and the Yukon to immerse yourself in indigenous history and marvel at the aurora. Fill your soul with the northern lights as they dance across the sky, the perfect beginning or ending to your Canadian adventure.

Canada is open this season, the first full season for Australians since the pandemic. Airlines are flying direct from Australia’s east coast to the vibrant streets of harbourside Vancouver, the exchange rate is healthy and almost on par and the mountains are calling.

I know where I’ll be skiing. Just saying. Need more? Check out all that Canada has to offer this winter.

YOU’LL LAND, IN A fairy tale MOUNTAIN REGION THAT BOASTS A castle , A CHATEAU AND A frozen lake.

Banff Alberta, Destination Canada/Paul Zizka

MY

PimpChair ride

Not all chairlifts are created equal.

BY ALYSON LAMB

RAMCHARGER, BIG SKY USA

Big Sky’s famous high-speed, high-tech, eight-person Ramcharger 8 chairlift is the chair for the pampered you. It features ergonomically-shaped, extra-wide heated seats, head rests, foot rests and a weather-proof bubble for those bad weather days. Better yet, forget waiting in slow lift queues. The Ramcharger can take on 3,200 riders every hour, dropping them up Andesite Mountain ready to cruise along some of the best intermediate trails Big Sky has on offer.

THE TRAM, JACKSON HOLE SKI RESORT USA

It’s hard to go past Jackson Hole’s Tram, or Big Red, when listing the coolest chairlifts in ski towns. In just 12 minutes, Big Red can fly 100 people 1260m skyward. Here, revellers enjoy 360-degree views of the famous Teton Mountains and Jackson Hole Valley plus access to a plethora of advanced freeride runs, including the infamous Corbet’s Couloir. Time it right and you could catch a #tramjam, where famous musicians akin to Michael Franti, bust a live tune during the ascent.

ARMENTAROLA SKI LIFT , DOLOMITES ITALY

Located in the centre of the Dolomites is Armentarola and one of the most unique ski lifts on our list. As you make your way down the slope towards the skiable area of Alta Badia, you’ll be met with a flat area, and this is where the excitement begins. Rather than riding a simple rope tow, you’ll instead enjoy the unforgettable experience of being towed by a horse-drawn carriage. Does it get much cooler than that?

Jackson: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Ramcharger: Jon Resnick for Big Sky

TITLIS ROTAIR, ENGELBERG SWITZERLAND

Three words. Rotating. Cable. Car. Head to Titlis Resort in Engelberg Switzerland where you’ll be whisked 3020m above sea level. This world-first ski lift revolves 360 degrees as a part of its 5-minute ride. Be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks boasting some of the best (and gnarliest) freeride terrain in the world.

Armentarola:

Photo via Bandion.it

Titlis Rotair: Roger Gruetter for Titlis Bahnen

What it’s really like skiing the world’s most iconic resorts –Chamonix, Verbier and Jackson

BY ABIGAIL BUTCHER

THE BIG THREE

Chamonix, via Unsplash Jonathon Gallegos

Chamonix

PROS

• Gnarly skiing — serious challenges and steeps for adventurers

• Authentic French town with a real adventure vibe

• Home of the famous Vallée Blanche, one of the world’s longest off-piste runs

• Masses of mountain schools to upskill

CONS

• Separate mountains with bus travel required

• Not great for piste skiers especially of different abilities

• Serious race for first tracks after snowfall, queues can build at lifts

• Chamonix town gets busy and only one lift/mountain directly from the town

EVER SINCE GREG STUMP SKIED THE COULOIR POUBELLE off the Aiguille du Midi in the ski film Blizzard of Aahs, Chamonix has been hailed as one of — if not the best freeride resort in the world, and one that no self-respecting skier should leave off their bucket list. Sitting in the shadow of the famous Mont Blanc, the scenery in “Cham” is dramatic and the skiing steep — it’s every bit as good as the movies. Chamonix is of course home to the Vallée Blanche, the most famous off-piste descent in the world, and definitely one of the longest, at 18km.

The downside of all this is that the place gets busy, with a lot of testosterone and competition especially when the forecast is for snow.

Chamonix town is big and bustling, so it’s a place to sit and absorb. This is a place for extreme skiers, mountain guides and mountaineers — even the equipment left outside bars is next-level. But this comes

VITAL STATS

• Base elevation: 1035m

• Summit: 3842m

• Vertical drop: 2807m

• Pistes: 155km

with benefits: there are numerous mountain guides/training schools teaching mountain craft and off-piste skills, much of which is set up for solo skiers or small groups, so it is very affordable. If you’re thinking of going off piste or venturing into the backcountry then you’ll definitely need a guide.

Because of its size, Chamonix is also relatively affordable and it’s also easy to reach — just an hour from Geneva airport with great bus links.

Chamonix, via Unsplash Yann Louener

Verbier

[

SWITZERLAND ]

PROS

• Switzerland is immaculate, and everything runs like clockwork (yes, really)

• The terrain is steep, with itineraries offering avalanchepatrolled off-piste

• Attractive town, slick transport and an efficient lift network direct from the village.

• Verbier knows how to party

CONS

• Pricey to eat, drink, ski, stay and party

• Elbows out after a dump — everything gets tracked out quickly

• Glitzy side to the resort is somewhat offputting

• Ski area gets busy especially at peak periods

VERBIER HAS IT ALL: gnarly skiing, serious freeride terrain and epic nightlife, but also reasonable amounts of piste skiing and runs that the Swiss call “itineraries” that are essentially avalanche-patrolled “off-piste” — such as the famous Tortin or Vallon d’Arbi.

The skyline is epic, with views from the summit of Mont Fort, the highest peak in the 4 Vallées, taking in the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, as well as the Rhone Valley.

You need stamina for this Swiss gem. It is a serious skier’s town — the final stop and birthplace of the Freeride World Tour — but Verbier is also a serious party town attracting celebs and royals in equal measure, many of whom you might be rubbing shoulders with at the end of the night in its infamous nightclub, The Farm.

Verbier’s town is purpose-built, but not in the big purpose-built block way once favoured by the French; the chalets, hotels

and apartment blocks are (in the main) charmingly clad in wood and stone. It’s not the cheapest place to stay, but there are some good-value hostels, huts, 3* hotels and Airbnb’s dotted around if you look hard enough.

Because it’s such an iconic destination, Verbier gets busy, especially at the peak times of Christmas and New Year, but with a ski area spread over 412km (for which you need a 4 Vallées ski pass, not just Verbier) there is masses of skiing for all levels, all day long.

VITAL STATS

• Base elevation: 1500m

• Summit: 3330m

• Vertical drop: 1830m

• Pistes: 412km

Verbier, via Unsplash Sebastian Staines

VITAL STATS

• Base elevation: 1924m

• Summit: 3185m

• Vertical drop: 1262m

• Skiable area: 2500 acres (10km2)

Jackson Hole

PROS

• A Wild West culture you won’t find anywhere else

• Big vertical and home to the famous Corbet’s Couloir

• Excellent snow record and in-bound challenging skiing

• Great aprés compared to some US resorts

CONS

• Pricey to stay and ski in Jackson Hole

• Ski area is a bus ride from the old town

• Queues build for lifts and traffic on the roads

• Limited skiing for beginners [

WHERE ELSE MIGHT YOU COME ACROSS

A 700KG MOOSE while skiing, drop into the most famous couloir in the world and then sit in a western ranching saddle, sipping a beer? Only in Jackson Hole. This Wyoming resort is so next level for just about everything: scenery, steepness, snow record, party atmosphere and serious skiing that it’s not hard to nail down exactly why this deserves its place at the top of skiers’ To Do lists.

Start the day by riding the iconic Jackson Hole Tram and stopping for a coffee and Top Of The World Waffle at Corbet’s Cabin, a tradition in itself, and the best way to savour the 360-degree views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole Valley. Without going out of the gates, there’s more than enough steep, double-black diamond chutes and tree runs to keep a good skier busy, accessing some of the most challenging skiing on the planet without the expense of hiring a guide.

Jackson Hole is on the Ikon Pass which makes the lift pass cheaper, but also means that weekends can be busy with American skiers flocking by car to the Big Hills, so ski mid-week.

The main town filled with cowboy saloons, pool halls and wooden walkways is a halfhour drive from the base of the ski area — which is a fun spot as well — but the two, like many US resorts, are a bus ride away from each other.

Make the most of your time there and visit the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and make sure to come home with a Stetson.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

50

OF THE

6DESTINATIONS TO HIT UP ON THE

Best USA

IKON PASS

WITH ACCESS TO OVER 50 GLOBAL DESTINATIONS, the Ikon Pass is a favourite for a reason. It offers serious bang for buck and encourages skiers and snowboarders to explore destinations they may not have otherwise discovered including 6 of the best in the USA.

1 MAMMOTH, CALIFORNIA

Mammoth is big, really big, with over 10 metres of annual snowfall and one of the longest seasons in North America, with lifts often turning right through to July. This Californian resort also offers the highest lift-served skiable terrain in the state at 3369 metres, plus 3500 acres to explore, famed terrain parks and 945metres of vertical.

2SNOWBASIN, UTAH

This classic Utah resort is new to the Ikon pass this season, with over 100 runs across 3000 skiable acres and 914 vertical metres for a real thigh burn. Expect wide open bowls, corduroy groomers, gladed runs and seriously swanky day lodges to retire to. Fun fact – Snowbasin has a long history as a training ground for Australia’s Olympic aerial skiers.

3 PALISADES TAHOE, CALIFORNIA

Come this northern ski season and Palisades Tahoe will unite Alpine Meadows and Olympic Valley with a much-anticipated

1. MAMMOTH

2. SNOWBASIN

3. PALISADES TAHOE

Base to Base gondola opening up 6000 acres of terrain across two mountains.

Known for some of the best free riding in the USA, Palisades is home to the famous Finger Chutes, if you dare, and the equally famous Jonny Moseley Winter Olympic gold medal mogul skier.

4DEER VALLEY, UTAH

One of six Utah destinations on the Ikon Pass, the exclusive skiers-only Deer Valley resort caps daily numbers so you don’t have to stand in a lift line. Add resort ski valets, ski-in ski-out five star hotels and the thriving Park City Main Street down the road and your luxe snow life is full. Did we mention 100 runs over six peaks? We should have.

5 STEAMBOAT, COLORADO

Steamboat - where they’re so confident about the quality of their snowfall, they trademarked it Champagne Powder®. You’ll find plenty of it across 169 runs in the Colorado resort known for real Old West charm, local bespoke restaurants and retail plus convenient slopeside lodging and a $200m investment for the 22/23 and 23/24 season.

6WINTER PARK, COLORADO

Catch the Winter Park Express snow train from Denver to the slopes and explore the resort’s seven territories accessed from a purpose built ski-in ski-out base village. Kids will love skiing the run rolling Dilly Dash Alley, experts head to the Cirque Territory for steeps, cliffs and chutes.

Discover the Ikon Pass, and find your resort favourites here

BY NATALIA JASTRZAB

4. DEER VALLEY

5. STEAMBOAT

6. WINTER PARK

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

Panorama Resort’s Guy Paulsen reveals his Level IV Instructor Tips on how to powder ski.

HOW GOOD DO I HAVE TO BE?

GP: Skiers can start to enjoy the sensation of powder skiing as soon as they can parallel ski. Take the time to ski with and learn from a certified ski pro. They will quickly get a skier focusing on what to do and how to do it, making powder a more enjoyable experience. Like many things, the more skiers get out in powder snow the more at ease they will be. The trick it is be patient with yourself.

WHAT SKIS DO I NEED?

GP: The deeper the snow the wider and softer ski you’ll need, however in some cases, too wide a ski can be more of challenge to use. For example, a light snowfall with low humidity or featherlight snow covering hardpack or ice. Because the skiers weight/force will push through the little amount of light snow, the best ski choice would be a ski more suited toward a hardpack condition. Powder snow conditions of 10cms or more require an “all mountain ski’ with a slightly wider, if not Rubenesque shape underfoot, skiers will then float more than sink, taking less effort to enjoy the snow.

TOP 5 POWDER SKIING TIPS 1

CHOOSE YOUR TERRAIN WISELY: for less experienced skiers look for gentler slopes using a slightly longer, straighter turn shape to carry speed and grow confidence. Powder snow acts a little like a brake, taking a straighter line at first may feel strange however will compensate for added resistance.

2

KNOW YOUR WEATHER: visibility and wind have an incredible impact on powder skiing. Especially for advanced/expert skiers looking to access more exposed terrain. Knowing the weather prior to hitting the slopes helps. Typically, large weather systems come with associated wind and clouds. Being aware of this in advance will help you with your terrain selection - leeward aspect with trees for added definition.

3

SKI WITH SOMEONE: contrary to the infamous powder snow saying “ there are no friends on powder days” having a friend not only to share a great story with but one who can assist you in finding your ski (or worse) is always a good idea

4

STAY CENTRED: the tendency for many skiers is wanting to lean back while skiing powder. Don’t. Many of today’s ski are designed with early rise or rocker tip to allow the ski to move through the snow easily while you keep your strong centred stance.

5

BE FLUID: Be progressive with your movements and turn shape when skiing in powder snow. Quick, hard turns often result in an awkward, strenuous experience. Instead, be purposeful and progressive. The best powder skiers are always in a state of movement, up, down, side to side. Whatever the situation calls for. Just like a great dancer they are never still.

EUROPE’S SKI TOWNS Car Free

BY ALYSON LAMB

1.ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND

You’ll find Zermatt nestled at the foot of Switzerland's most iconic mountain - the Matterhorn. A sustainability champion, you can breathe in the clean air of this trafficfree village powered by hydropower and solar.

Encouraged to make your way around by foot, Zermatt also offers e-taxi, cable car, e-bus or even a horsedrawn carriage (just like a fairytale) as alternative ways to get around. Home to

Pack your après boots and leave the rental car at home, the sweetest pedestrian only ski villages in the European alps are filled with cobbled streets, snow laden thatched roofs and rocking ski terrain.

360km of piste skiing across three ski areas, there’s plenty of riding fun to be had when you find yourself at this 1608m altitude village.

2.OBERLECH, AUSTRIA

Completely car-free in winter, Oberlech makes use of underground service tunnels to transport goods around the village. Known for luxe top-end restaurants and hotels, the boujee village sits at an altitude of 1750m and is home to 305km of ski runs. For those wanting to rub shoulders with the elite, Oberlech is one of the more popular ski destinations for Royal visitors.

3.LES ARCS, FRANCE

Arc 1950 is part of the mammoth Paradiski in France offering 435km of piste skiing. The ski-in-ski-out village is dotted with human-powered travellers making their way about town with all vehicles parked underground upon arrival. At 1950m above sea level, you’re guaranteed

snow cover almost year round making it a highly desirable ski destination. Arc 1950 is also home to the famous Vanoise Express Cable Car. Stretching 1800m across a valley, you can take the dizzyingly high doubledecker link from Les Arcs to La Plagne to further explore the Paradiski resort.

4. COURMAYEUR, ITALY

Rub shoulders with the rich and stylish in Cormayeur’s pedestrian only kilometre long Via Roma, where skiers and snowboarders come to part with their Euro for the world’s swankiest farshun labels and sip on après tinctures with the well-heeled of Milan. This old-world village at the foot of Mont Blanc is an Instagrammer’s dream, all cobbled laneways and heritage alpine architecture. You’ll find the resort in the Vallee D’Aosta in the most breathtaking peaks of the European Alps serving up big mountain terrain to make your thighs burn with over 1500 metres plus of vertical.

Zermatt, via Unsplash Daniel Cox

THAT ONE TIME AT SNOW CAMP

SKI-IN GEEK-OUT

BY MARK DAFFEY

The best way to improve your skiing or snowboarding?

Sign up to one of these specialist camps. By the time you’ve completed one, you’ll be sending it with the best of them.

Science knowledge has been applied to practically every sport on the planet, all in the pursuit of seeing how far mankind can run, jump, lift, swim, kick or throw. Limits are tested and boundaries continually reset. Skiing is no exception, with the Rocky Mountains resort of Telluride leading the way through their three-hour, on-snow private lessons in Ski Biomechanics. Dr Kim Hewson, an orthopaedic surgeon, former Director of Sports Medicine at University of Arizona, and ski school instructor, has devised a step-bystep approach to skiing more efficiently, based on increasing your awareness of your natural functional skeletal alignment.

STEEP AND DEEP IN THE CANADIAN WOODS

For 60-odd years, ever since Canadian Mountain Holidays (CMH) Heli Skiing’s founder strapped a car’s ski rack to the skids of a helicopter and flew to a remote glacier with visions of skiing untouched powder, the company has been ferrying adventure lovers to remote slopes in British Columbia’s Bugaboo Ranges and beyond. CMH’s Steep Shots and Pillow Drops Trip goes a step further, with expert tutelage by guides and athletes who give you the coaching you need to tackle gnarly drops and navigate leg-burning lines.

CMH Craig McGee

Telluride Ski Resort

SKI INSTRUCTOR COURSE, BANFF

Specialist ski and snowboard improvement company, Nonstop, offer three, five and 11-week Ski Instructor Courses based in the Canadian resort town of Banff. Twenty-five per cent of students who sign up for the five-week course are Aussies, with each of them gaining CSIA Level 1 accreditation upon completion. Courses operate in the three surrounding resorts of Sunshine Village, Lake Louise and Mt Norquay. Each have their own unique characteristics, allowing for a varied training experience. Nonstop’s coaches will be on the slopes with you for five hours per day, four days a week, leaving plenty of free time to practise what you’ve learned or try other activities (ice climbing, anyone?). And even if you don’t plan on teaching skiing, completing one of these courses will improve your technique and skills, making you a better skier.

WANNABE OLYMPIANS IN ITALY

Forget ordinary ski schools. Instead, The Arc will fast-track your kids towards becoming highly skilled athletes using programs designed by twotime Winter Olympian, Jono Bauer. Based in the Italian Alps resort of Livigno, The Arc offers a choice of four programs across two- or three-week periods. Children aged seven years and up can get expert tutelage from world-class coaches across Alpine, Ski X and Moguls in the Core Skill Development Programs. Or maybe they want to hone their Giant Slalom, Slalom and Ski X racing skills; for that, they should join the Alpine Race Training Program. The Arc’s Slopestyle Development Programs focus on terrain park skills and safety. And snowboarders haven’t been forgotten either; the Snowboard Programs for shredders aged 10 and above sets the foundation for excellence in a variety of disciplines.

WHAT ARE YOU SO AFRAID OF?

No one is fearless, even in skiing. But extreme skier, Kirsten Ulmer, insists it’s possible to have a healthy relationship with fear and anxiety. For more than a decade, Ulmer risked her life skiing down some of the most extreme terrain known to man or woman, allowing her to forge a reputation as the world’s best bigmountain extreme skier. At one point, her peers in the outdoor industry voted her the most fearless athlete in North America. But that reputation for bravery didn’t come by accident. After much trial and error, Ulmer learned from her mistakes, which she generously imparts on others during her two-day Art of Fear Camp at Alta in Utah, a skiers-only resort. It’s not about where you plant your pole or how to finish your turn. Instead, these camps promise to alter your mindset so that by the end of it, nothing will hold you back.

Nonstop

Kristin Ulmer

The Arc

Euro schuss

BEST-KEPT BACKCOUNTRY SECRETS

BY ABIGAIL BUTCHER

If you’re after a more laid-back vibe, where the snow isn’t tracked out within an hour, along with a more intimate side to European mountains, there are some real hidden gems that offer that authentic ambience, lower prices and just as much (if not more) pow.

EUROPE IS BRIMMING WITH SKI RESORTS like nowhere else on earth. Mountains throughout France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy (and beyond) have for centuries been crossed on skis and there’s barely a pitch now untouched by a lift. But while the wellknown resorts offer incredible skiing, masses of non-ski activities and buzzy nightlife, many are a victim of their own success. And if you’re in search of powder, crowds are no good.

While you can freeride anywhere, and let’s face it who doesn’t like lift-served powder runs, the steeper and deeper resorts of Chamonix, St Anton and Verbier are awesome ski areas that really take some beating — but you need to sharpen your elbows on a powder morning and be up at the crack of dawn to beat the rush.

If you’re after a more laid-back vibe, where the snow isn’t tracked out within an hour, along with more intimate and authentic side to European mountains, there are some real hidden gems that offer that authentic ambience, lower prices and just as much (if not more) pow.

SWITZERLAND ENGELBERG

Tourism/ Silvano Zeiter

Top tip: Stay at Ski Lodge Engelberg for the full backcountry vibe. Zinal, Val D’anniviers. Switzerland

This isn’t a place for beginners, as there’s not a lot of piste skiing, but Engelberg — with its “big give” off-piste routes of Galtiberg, Sulz, Steinberg, Laub and Steintäli, is mighty for adventure-hungry experts. The resort, just over an hour’s journey from Zurich, sits on the northern edge of the Alps with an excellent snow record. While the town sits at 1050m, and can be prone to rain, the highest peak, Titlis, towers at 3040m, so there’s more than 2000m vertical to devour. Just make sure to take a mountain guide.

ANDERMATT

Less of a hidden gem since its multi facelift by a developer and purchase by Vail Resorts, Andermatt still deserves a firm spot on Europe’s steep and deep list. Its main mountain, the Gemsstock, has rugged and steep terrain from 2965m, with glorious long off-piste options and reliable, bountiful snow (mountain guide needed). Since linking with nearby Sedrun, there’s more piste skiing here for the less confident, too. The old village, once an Army garrison, charms with its Hansel and Gretel-style buildings lining the main street — with affordable places to stay and a buzzing nightlife, so save some legs for the dancefloor.

Top tip: Travel here via Switzerland’s excellent — and scenic — rail network.

VAL D’ANNIVIERS

Home to several unspoilt, charming villages — of which Grimentz and Zinal are the best known — this ski area in the Rhone Valley is low-key and crowd-free, despite its excellent snow record and massive range of off-piste skiing. Don’t expect too many fast, modern chairlifts here and be prepared to hike to find the goods, but with a top altitude of 3000m and a ski area of around 220km pistes, there’s nothing humble about this Valaisan gem which happily sits quietly in the shadow of its glitzier neighbours of Verbier and Zermatt.

Top tip: Book mountain guide Nick Parks

FRANCE

MAURIENNE VALLEY

Offering everything from tree skiing, to open bowls and hike-to couloirs, this unknown valley close to the Italian border is a true hidden gem. The Maurienne still lies relatively unchartered — despite the fact you can find sweet, untracked feather-light powder for days after a dump thanks to its mainly northfacing slopes and impressive snowfall. With a top height of 2800m, there’s decent vertical to

be had along with some excellent mountain huts for touring. In the valley, a range of small family-friendly villages stretch from Bonnevalsur-Arc (a ski tour destination from Val d’Isère, over the hill), to Val Cenis and Orelle (linked by lift with Val Thorens and Les 3 Vallées) to Valloire and Les Sybelles.

Top Tip: Book a mountain guide, or spot on a shared day’s guiding, with Upguides.com

LA GRAVE

Okay, it’s not exactly ‘hidden’ but it does tick all the boxes: unspoilt, gnarly, big vertical, great snow and legendary off-piste. La Grave has less than 1,000 visitor beds, only one serious lift and an almost entirely freeride, steep mountain with a summit at 3550m which gives it reliably great snow (though not reliably good weather: be warned). You do need to have a guide, like everywhere in Europe when you venture off the piste, but this is a serious resort for experts only and unless you hit that bad weather, you’re unlikely to leave disappointed — or with any energy.

Top tip: If that storm hits, weather it in nearby Serre Chevalier, equally unspoilt.

ITALY

ALAGNA

This small and remote resort, sitting at 1200m on the eastern fringe of the Monterosa Ski Area, comprises the type of dark wooden farmhouses for which the Alps is famous. While the other Monterosa villages of Champoluc and Gressoney la Trinité have more life, it’s the mountains above Alagna that are most exciting. The area is known for its steep couloirs and dizzying vertical — the highest summit is Punta Dufour at 4634m and there are several hikeable peaks over 3000m. Yes there’s no ground-breaking après in Alagna, but your legs will be weary after a day in this cult resort.

Top tip: splash out on a day’s heli-skiing if you can.

AUSTRIA

OBERGURGL

This high village sits at 1930m with its highest peak — the cutely named Wurmkogl — at 3080m, making it one of the most snow-sure ski resorts in the Alps. It oozes Tyrolean atmosphere (if not charm) so you’ll be fuelling up here for your freeriding on stodgy goulash and germknödel. While it’s not exactly “unknown” — Obergurgl is very popular with families — it doesn’t have a big name among powder-seekers, which means you can find fresh tracks easily, with lots of it in mellow bowls and powder fields all easily accessed from lifts. A ‘something for everyone’ destination.

Top tip: Head to the Nederhütte for some proper foot-stomping, table-dancing Austrian après.

WARTH-SCHRÖCKEN

Owner of the lofty “snowiest ski area in the Alps” title, Warth-Schröcken is the ideal quiet base from which to ski the mighty Arlberg ski area, which encompasses 340km of pistes across St Anton, Lech and St Christoph. The bigger village of Warth (1500m) isn’t much to write home about — until you hear its snowfall average is 10.6m (this is measured at 1650m) and learn it’s mainly north-facing skiing. None of the slopes are all that steep, but there is a high chance you’ll find freshies on every run — especially if you source the right mountain guide — and it’s lift-linked to St Anton.

Top tip: avoid weekends, this resort has a lot of local traffic.

Alagna

Aurora

AN ULTIMATE ADD ON TO ANY CANADA SKI TRIP

Seeing the northern lights is at the top of everyone’s bucket list, and it’s easier than you think to tack it onto your ski trip in Canada this winter.

BY NATALIA JASTRZAB

BY PLANNING CAREFULLY, YOU

CAN MAXIMISE YOUR CHANCES of seeing the natural phenomenon to beat them all - and get the pics to prove it.

Here’s our guide to Aurora Viewing, with all the information you need to get planning.

Where to go: Head to Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories of Canada. A mix of perfect conditions ensures the town’s status as the Aurora Capital of the World.

How to get there: Yellowknife is just a 2-hour direct flight from Vancouver, Edmonton or Calgary - so easy access from your skiing adventures throughout British Columbia or Alberta.

When to go: Anytime from late December through to March, which times perfectly with the ski seasons. Plan to stay a minimum of four nights.

Choose your own lights adventure: Spend a few nights at Aurora Village, a well-known viewing location in Yellowknife, owned and operated by First Nations people of the area.

Relax by the fire in one of the teepees while you wait for the aurora, sipping a hot drink and grabbing dinner from the licensed dining hall. Or book a heated, 360-degree revolving swivel chair for a luxe experience.

For those who want to get well off the beaten track, it’s also worth booking a stay at Blachford Lake Lodge, just a 25-minute bush plane ride from Yellowknife.

A premium experience with an onsite chef and incredible activities, you can enjoy the northern lights from the hot tub or the huge Aurora-watching windows in the main lodge.

What else is there to do: Check out the thriving township of Yellowknife, with many shops, restaurants and local pubs. Or book tours such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, ice fishing and dream catcher lessons.

Local tips: The aurora is at its best from 11pm to 1am, so be prepared to lose some sleep for a good cause. Also, your regular ski gear won’t cut it for the cold here - you’ll need to rent extra-warm jackets, pants, boots and gloves while visiting.

BONUS FLIGHT BOOKING HACK

You can book your flights to Yellowknife when you sort your international airfares from Australia - via Air Canada, or Qantas with Canadian domestic partner WestJet.

Book your add on adventure through MySnow Holidays or Skimax Holidays.

The Canadian ski season from December to March times perfectly with winter Aurora viewing in Yellowknife’s Northwest Territories, renowned to be the Aurora Capital of the World.

your preferred travel agent about Aurora Village or Blachford Lake Lodge as aurora viewing options to add onto your Canadian ski holiday.

MY SHINTO HOME Nozawa

Who’s the prettiest ski village in all the ancient land of Japan? Nozawa Onsen is. Here’s why.

BY ALEX PARSONS

I FIRST VISITED NOZAWA ONSEN IN JAPAN IN FEBRUARY 2013 with my father and sister. It was seriously one of the best trips of my life, full of sushi and snow monkeys and bullet train shinkansens. We stayed in a tiny ryokan, a family owned lodge, with Japanese style breakfasts each day that included tofu, rice and seaweed. I was totally hooked.

I quit my job, my lease and relationship and booked a flight to Japan the very next season. Destination, Narnia, aka Nozawa.

Onsen

Tucked into a mountain side, Nozawa Onsen is a fabled little feudal town full of winding cobbled streets, with family-run restaurants and quaint wooden bars hidden around each corner. Now mainly a farming town, it is said that Nozawa was first discovered by a Buddhist monk in 724 AD. This picture perfect village now boasts over 40 private and public onsens and is filled with steaming channels of water that add a mystical

Skier Drew Jolowicz in Nozawa Onsen, photo by Shaun Mittwollen

Photo credit for the village shot: Nozawa Onsen village, photo Jen McLean

quality to the town. Locals boil eggs and nozawana (locally grown leaf vegetable) in the dedicated public Ogama hot spring. There are temples and shrines covered with snow, and Shinto statues dotted about the forest if you know where to find them.

Then there’s the mountain itself, a snowy paradise with tree riding and wide open runs for carving and that one long 8km ski run with views across the Japan Alps. Be still, my heart.

I lasted three seasons (2014/15, 2018/19 and 2019/20) and still wish I’d had more. I’ve hiked the orange-flecked mountains in autumn, I’ve ridden bottomless powder in winter and then watched the cherry blossoms bloom in spring. It is a beautiful place to spend time in.

My digs were a tiny, tatami mat apartment where each morning I would pack up my toiletries and walk to my local onsen for a bath - even if it meant walking through 100cm of snow that had fallen the night before.

It’s the place I really fell in love with snowboarding and where I had my

first backcountry tour which led me on my path as a backcountry guide in Australia’s ski season.

Nozawa is a place that stays with you long after you’ve left. It fills your daydreams with its powder snow, its quaint village vibes and friendly locals, its natural hot springs and old world charm.

It will call you back, just like it did to me.

THE MOUNTAIN

Mount Kenashi rises up to 1964 metres with a highest lifted elevation of 1650m with big, wide open runs for long turns as well as tricky little tree sections. There’s over 50 kilometres of marked trails and almost 300 hectares of skiable terrain.

The mountain caters well to beginners but also has an abundance of deep and steep runs (Schneider, Utopia-A, Ushikubi, Kurokura) plus backcountry to be discovered with a guide.

In 2020 a new gondola was built to get

Nozawa Onsen village, photo Jen McLean

skiers and boards to the top faster but there’s still plenty of old world charm, like the secret Shinyu chairlift that crawls along through the pine trees, or the on-mountain restaurants with Austrian decor.

Why Austrian? Nozawa is considered “the birthplace of Japan alpine skiing” when a young Austrian arrived at the village and taught the locals how to stem Christie back in 1912.

CAFES, BARS & RESTAURANTS

There’s over 100 restaurants and bars in this tiny village come winter ski season.

Good news is everything is within walking distance - meandering through the snowy streets, with the lights of bars enticing you in, is great fun. For dinner, I frequented Billiken due to their resident cats, and enjoyed the cheap savoury pancakes at Akibitei Okonomiyaki.

Stay bar is an underground rock bar that I’ve spent far too much time in, although NEO bar probably takes out the prize for coolest bar with snowboards on the wall, good music and cocktails. The next morning, it’s best to head to Craft Room below the gondola for the town’s best Australian style coffee.

THE INFAMOUS FIRE FESTIVAL

Perhaps Nozawa is best known for the Dosojin Fire Festival, a centuries old festival that goes for three days and involves all the 42 year old and 25 year old men in the village. The main event is on January 15 when busloads of tourists arrive to take in the mayhem.

Expect a huge wooden three story effigy on fire and the locals battling each other with blazing sticks. The festival is designed to bring about a good harvest, health and fortune for the year. It’s a wild night with plenty of sake involved for both participants and spectators.

NozawaHolidays.com

Jen McLean

Chris Hocking

Whistler

ADVENTURES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

BY RACHAEL OAKES-ASH

WITH TWO MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN PEAKS and the largest ski resort in North America, Whistler Blackcomb is ripe for adventure. There’s more to do here in winter than just epic skiing and snowboarding. Put these on your list to enhance your next snow holiday.

1High wire at dusk: Ziptrek Ecotours will get you flying through snow laden forests on a high wire. Catch the magical alpenglow from above the forest floor, or zip under snowflakes falling from the sky. This two hour adventure is the ultimate après for thrill seekers.

2Vallea Lumina: Spend an hour or two on the Vallea Lumina light show trail in the Cougar Mountain forest. This family friendly adventure is a multi-media interactive journey for the young at heart who will delight in the light magic.

3First tracks: Book in for Fresh Tracks, board the early morning gondola, head into the Roundhouse Lodge for a yummy breakfast and jump on your skis and board when the call is made that the runs

are open. You’ll be first to make your mark on pristine powder.

4Spa daze: Go within and spend some Zen time in the Scandinave Spa nestled in the woods. This Finnish style spa is dedicated to relaxation with hot and cold open air baths, hammams, saunas and everything you need to soothe the adventurer within. Book a massage or spa treatment and make a day of it.

5Heli yeah: Who doesn’t want endless untracked powder to themselves? Jump in a helicopter on a 4 or 6 run heli ski day with Whistler Heliskiing in Whistler’s backcountry alpine terrain. You’ll be guided by a pro, given a safety briefing, lunch and a ton of fun that will make your mates green with snow envy.

6Cat skiing: Powder Mountain cat skiing serve up six to nine run cat ski days at Tricouni Mountain or Cypress Peak not far from Whistler. Guided by seasoned pros who know how to get your powder grins going, you’ll be given the time of your life and lunch thrown in for good measure.

To celebrate the first full season Australians can travel to Canada since 2019, Mogul Ski World is giving you the chance to win AUD $2000 holiday spending money, when you book a 2023 Whistler package for February, March or April. Check the website for details or reach out via email.

Winter Ziptrek Eco Tour

MY FIRST SKI RESORT LOVE: Snowmass

Aspen

Sexy S-curves on untouched, ivory meadows. Powder snow tickling my earlobes, caressing branches of Aspen firs. Sparkling blue-sky days. Rambunctious nights.

BY

KATE

ALLMAN

THEY SAY YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST LOVE. Aspen Snowmass and I are approaching the 10-year anniversary of our first date, but my memories of her are as crisp as the corduroy groomers she greeted me with over coffee each morning.

She was my first North American ski trip –my first long haul flight across the pacific to the land of stars and stripes. I had finished a year of university and was staring down three months of summer holidays in Australia – eight months before I would have a chance to click boots into bindings again.

It was time to pop my Aspen cherry.

After 16 cramped hours riding an economy cabin between Sydney and Los Angeles, my first impressions of Aspen’s beauty were muted by the classic talk to the hand manoeuvres of airlines: my luggage was lost. When we finally located it in the labyrinth of security screenings that is Los Angeles International, there were overnight delay and next-day delays. A day’s journey became nearly three.

Eventually, flying into Aspen airport – a dramatic event as pilots navigate over a cauldron of surrounding mountains to drop into the scenic valley with its snow-laden airstrip – was coloured by my jetlagged frustration. But I made it to Snowmass village in time for a romantic evening: a blizzard swirling into town.

Snowmass village, Aspen Snowmass

Fortunately, two Colorado locals made it their mission to wingman my date. The owners of a Snowmass ski shop – where I strolled in hoping to purchase a new set of ski boots – set about finding the perfect boot to fit the “crazy Aussie’s” bunion-clad feet.

Chuck*, with his Midwest drawl and deep booming laugh, raced around the shelves pulling down every brand and size. Larry*, a New York Rangers tragic and diehard fisherman, stretched and warmed the stiff plastic for me to slide gently into. After two hours, I came to understand the warmth and open-armed welcome I’d heard “real” Aspen locals were known for. I’d tried on every boot in the shop. The beauties I left with still fit perfectly.

In what might be considered the first kiss of ski resort love – it snowed the very first night. I woke to one of those fabled bluebird powder days made famous by Warren Miller films. With chairs cranking at 8.30am, I was riding at 8.31.

First, I chose a get-to-know-you carve down broad, empty groomers, freshly crimped under the rising sun. No hardpacked ice rose up like in Australian resorts. Aspen corduroy stayed reliably creamy and grippy under-ski.

Next, she took me to the top of “The Cirque” – a 12,500-foot (3800m) peak, almost two times the height of Australia’s highest lifted point. Endless fields of meadow powder rolled out above the tree line, with stark views over the Rockies in 360 degrees.

She tested me more after that – with a huffing clamber from Elk Camp to the Burnt Mountain Glades, where the “Long Shot” ski run pinged me into the deepest most exhilarating, exhausting, powder run of my life. It was only when I reached a tree with a sign that said “you are halfway” that I realised my love must be slightly insane.

I recouped energy with a burrito I still dream of decades later – swollen with tangy

MUCH LIKE THE EARLY DAYS OF datingSOMEONE NEW, THE TRIP BECAME A dreamy blur . “

pulled meat, guac and salsas, from a tin van serving takeaway Mexican in Snowmass Village. American food servings, I discovered, are sized to fuel an army. My snow pants grew tighter as I fell for Aspen, but at least I grew a plush backside to land on (literally).

I was swept off my skis discovering Buttermilk, a small area with deceptively humungous terrain parks. Home to the X-Games and hordes of extremely talented aerialists. I caught the late bus home with a bruised bum and my snow gloves covered in chocolate and marshmallow debris –courtesy of free s’mores cooked by beaming resort staff over an open bonfire.

Much like the early days of dating someone new, the trip became a dreamy blur. Mornings spent hiking Highlands’ bowl, afternoons bopping between the moguls of Ajax (the original Aspen resort). Sipping Sydney-quality lattes in cosy cafes, drinking in the cowboy culture of the town’s gold rush history, downing shotskis with random new friends, dancing in ski boots, and spotting the Obamas on their family weekend away (yes, this happened).

Sure, my love has been around; Aspen has a reputation globally. She’s a magnet for every type of skier, from Olympians to politicians to housewives of Beverley Hills.

She’s full of contradictions: cowboys click spurs next to snow boots and designer heels. She’s outdoorsy, sporty, totally bougie. And she dropped me as soon as I my money ran out.

I can’t wait to see her again.

All images

Aspen Snowmass

CHOW DOWN

From sweet to savoury, gooey to chewy, there’s nothing quite like a post-snow day treat, no matter where you are in the world.

SKI TOWN FOODS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

BY ALYSON LAMB

CANADA: POUTINE

Poutine is synonymous with Canada. Originating from Quebec in the 1950s, and found in restaurants through to street vendors, poutine is a devilishly delectable concoction of hot chips, cheese curd and brown gravy.

For the ultimate poutine satisfaction, make your way to the Josie Hotel Velvet Lounge at the base of Red Mountain in Rossland, BC and take your poutine with a side of mountain views.

SWITZERLAND: FONDUE

Fondue really started to make waves when the Swiss Cheese Union declared it as the country’s national dish to boost cheese sales post World War II. The heavenly taste comes from blending only the finest Swiss cheese with a good quality Swiss wine. Top it off with some homemade bread for dipping and you have yourself a winner. For a sublime fondue experience, head to Zermatt’s Hotel Julen and dig into the gooey goodness in a traditional rustic alpine setting.

Switzerland, Christof Sonderegger Poutine,

AUSTRIA: KAISERSCHMARRN

Austria’s sweet Kaiserschmarrn is also known as Emperor’s Mess, a light and fluffy pancake that is torn into bite size pieces after baking. Dating back to 1830, it was named after Austrian emperor, Kaiser Franz Joseph, who was known for his sweet tooth.

Visiting Mayrhofen? Get your Kaiserschmarrn sugar fix at Pilzbar whilst taking in the views of Austria’s magnificent alps.

JAPAN: SOBA NOODLES

This thin noodle made from buckwheat or a buckwheat-wheat flour blend is the base of many traditional Japanese recipes. Dating back to the Edo period (1603 to 1868), soba was introduced to discourage thiamine deficiency amongst people because of eating too much white rice.

When enjoying the powder-heaven of Niseko, take a break from your pow fix and visit the 12 seat Rakuichi restaurant where Soba Master Tatsuru Rai creates traditional soba using 100% local buckwheat.

USA: S’MORES

Originating as a Scouts recipe in the 1920s, the simple mix of open fire toasted marshmallows and chocolate, sandwiched between two pieces of Graham Cracker quickly gained popularity around the States with s’mores becoming a household name. Now it’s an après-must in ski towns across the USA.

For the ultimate s’mores experience, you can’t go past daily afternoon s’mores at The Montage in Deer Valley in Utah with their build-yourown bar featuring a variety of house made marshmallow flavours.

Kaiserschmarrn,

Tatsuru Ria, via Rakuichi

S’mores, via Shutterstock|Brent Hofacker

THE BIG & THE SMALL Revelstoke

BY RACHAEL OAKES-ASH

Some ski towns just feel like home. They get under your skin and into your bones and have you perusing the real estate section dreaming of your return. Revelstoke may be known for North America’s biggest vertical (1713metres), but this small town has a heart as deep as the annual snowfall (10.5metres). You may come for the mountain but you’ll stay for the town and all it brings.

BIG SPIRIT: This historic railway town is the home to some of the most creative artisans in British Columbia including the coolest mountain brewers and distillers. Try the tasting flight at Mt Begbie Brewing Co and take in big mountain views from the deck. Head to Monashee Spirits Craft Distillery for gins, vodka, and liqueurs, all distilled by hand and infused with local ingredients and pure mountain spring water. The ‘speakeasy’ vibe bar is not to be missed.

SMALL SCALE PRODUCE: Dine in one of Revelstoke’s independent restaurants and know you’re doing good by supporting regional produce from the likes of Fraser Valley duck farms, BC Sturgeon, and First Light Farms. Revelstoke’s farmers market operates year-round providing locals and visitors access to quality ingredients.

When you source local, you reduce your footprint, support local families, and contribute to local food security. Win win.

BIG CITY

FLAVOURS: Revelstoke may be far from the city, but you’ll find a variety of urban-standard flavours fit for foodies who like to ski.

Quartermaster Eatery in the Explorer’s Society boutique hotel boasts fresh, local, seasonal, and sustainable fare and Terra Firma’s Kitchen is true farm-to-table with produce, meat, and eggs direct from their farm. Aussies will also be happy to know that DOSE Coffee is as good as any Melbourne back lane for a caffeine fix before first tracks.

SMALL INTIMATE “ART ALLERIES”:

Local artists have used upcycled materials to transform Revelstoke’s alleyways into thriving public art spaces. Wander these

lanes and experience the Monaskisa, an artwork constructed from over 120 pieces of old skis and snowboards once destined for landfill. The town’s “Art Alleries” are displayed yearround and reflect Revelstoke’s thriving arts scene.

BIG ADVENTURE FOR ALL SIZES:

From après axe throwing in flannel shirts with Peak Axe Throwing to 500,000+ acres of heli and cat skiing terrain, there’s an adventure for everyone. Train spotters will love the Revelstoke Railway Museum for a glimpse into the town’s industrial past and present. Fair weather skiers will enjoy a soak in the hot springs on cloudy days and families will enjoy dog-sledding and guided snowshoe tours.

But wait, there’s so much more. Discover all that Revelstoke has to offer from small town charm to big mountain terrain, here

Monashee Spirits Distillery, Keri Knapp

Adventures Best

There’s more to a snow holiday than skiing and snowboarding, when the chairs stop turning check in for adventure.

BY MARK DAFFEY

LIKE MOST VISITORS TO THE SNOW, you could ski or snowboard down groomed pistes all day, jostling with the crowds in lift queues and dodging beginners. Or you could up the ante by choosing any one of these memorable experiences.

HELI FONDUE IN CANADA

If you had to name one comfort dish that pairs perfectly with a trip to the snow, what would it be? Fondue, right? What if you could jump in a helicopter for a 12-minute scenic flight to a remote European-style mountain hut so you could share the traditional Swiss cheese melt at a table, in front of a crackling fire, with friends?

Resuming this January, RK Heliski has joined hands with the Summit Hut restaurant on Panorama Mountain Resort, British Columbia, to offer an unforgettable dining experience at 2500 metres. Bring family and friends or make it a romantic occasion. Prices for the helicopter component start from CAD1200 + GST for up to 10 people, with fondue priced from CAD60 per person.

Panorama Mountain Resort

Interconnect Ski Tour, Ski Utah/Chris Pearson

SKI 6 RESORTS IN A DAY IN UTAH

What’s better than skiing one resort in a day? Six! The Ski Utah Interconnect Adventure Tour links up to six resorts in the Wasatch Mountains, outside Salt Lake City, on a oneday tour. Experience Deer Valley, Park City, Solitude, Brighton, Alta and Snowbird, using only resort lifts and your own legs to transfer from one to the next.

The tour is open to advanced skiers (sorry, snowboarders) over the age of 15 and in good physical condition. Expect to ski around 40 kilometres and descend close to 5000 vertical metres in a day, with some hiking, uphill traversing and side-stepping required on varying terrain and snow conditions. Group sizes are limited to eight skiers (minimum two), plus guides, on open tours or as many as 12 for group bookings. Tours operate seven days a week.

SUNSET SILHOUETTE SKIING/RIDING

Skiing after dark can add an extra dimension and at the Rocky Mountains resort of Winter Park, in Colorado, night skiing comes with a difference - you light them up yourself. Winter Park’s Sunset Night Ski and Ride experience takes place after the lifts have closed, when guests are given the chance to enjoy uncrowded runs for two hours using head torches to light the way.

ALPINO VINO AFTER DARK

At 3650 metres, Telluride’s Alpino Vino ranks as North America’s highest on-mountain restaurant. By day, the stunning views across the Wilson Range from its outdoor terrace are as spectacular as any mountaintop restaurant on Earth. But the wow factor doesn’t stop there. By night, diners arriving by custom-built snow coaches can settle into a superb fourcourse Northern Italian meal accompanied by world-class wines while a wood-burning fire warms you to your core.

Winter Park Resort

Alpino Vino at Telluride

Alpine coaster at Park City Mountain via Park City Chamber_ Bureau

GIDDY UP

Steamboat Springs has a reputation as a Wild West cowboy town. One downtown century-old Western-wear store reportedly sells 6000 Stetsons a year, and cowboys race on skis in a downhill ‘stampede’ each January. During February, a street parade includes children on skis being towed down the main street behind horseback riders wearing chaps and spurs. Visitors to Steamboat can get in on the action by signing up for a horseback riding tour through the Elk Valley. Tours take place yearround. But nothing – and I mean, nothing – beats riding a hardy steed through fields of virgin snow, where the horses’ rhythmic gait allows you to retreat into your own headspace, far from the ski crowds.

SINGLE CAT SKI LAPS

How does a ticket-to-ride that takes you to the top of otherwise tough-to-get-to

ridgelines with fresh powder sound? Pretty darn good, I say. Powder Mountain (often abbreviated to Pow Mow), in Utah, offers visitors the chance to jump inside a snowcat from the resort to three single-ride cat areas that collectively boast more than 1300 skiable acres. These are areas that are inaccessible by lifts, and it’s far more affordable than heliskiing. Sounds like ‘Powadise’ if you ask me.

SNOWMOBILE AT MAMMOTH

There’s more to winter resorts than just schussing downhill. Mammoth Snowmobile Adventures gives visitors the chance to get away from the ski slopes on an exhilarating, scenic trip into California’s Eastern Sierra Ranges. Jump aboard single or double snowmobiles on one-hour tours that climb to Minaret Vista for panoramic views of the Minarets, Mammoth Mountain and the Ritter Range, or three-hour Explorer Snowmobile Tours delving deeper into backcountry terrain.

Above: Powder Mountain cat, Ski Utah/Chris Pearson

Left: Mammoth Mountain snow mobiles Steamboat.com

Colorado

THE ULTIMATE SNOW STATE!

28 reasons to hit up Colorado, USA this northern ski season.

Arapahoe Basin: Longest ski season in North America, highest elevation terrain park and the coolest après snow “beach.”

Aspen Highlands: Known for “the bowl” –a forty five minute ridgeline hike to patrolled off piste terrain to burn the thighs.

Aspen Mountain: Accessed by the downtown gondola, known for first tracks and powder pistes.

Beaver Creek: Uber groomed slopes, super swanky service and free freshly baked cookies every day at 4pm.

Breckenridge: Cool historical town multi coloured Main Street, big peaks, moguls, trees and family friendly.

Buttermilk: Home to the X Games, Buttermilk is the terrain park doyenne of Colorado.

Copper Mountain: The perfect graded mountain from beginner to advanced.

Crested Butte: Prettiest little ski town with monster resort terrain and backcountry guides.

Echo Mountain Resort: 60 skiable day trip acres super close to Denver.

Eldora Mountain Resort: Just outside of Denver, past Boulder, Eldora is the local’s choice for sneaky snow turns.

Granby Ranch: Family friendly intimate snow resort with a western vibe.

Hesperus Ski Area: Just outside of Durango, this under the radar ski area offers night skiing.

Howelsen Hill Ski Area: On the edge of downtown Steamboat Springs, this Olympian training ground is Colorado’s oldest ski area.

Kendall Mountain Ski Area: The sweetest teeniest ski area perfect for first timers – four trails and a terrain park.

Keystone: The three peaks offer distinct and naturally separated terrain for skiers and riders of all levels.

Loveland: A cult classic with over 10 metres of annual snowfall and a mass wedding every February 14.

Monarch Mountain: Off the beaten path with laid back locals in search of fresh untouched powder.

Winter Park, Carl Frey

Cooper Mountain, Casey Day

Powderhorn Mountain Resort: Located on the Grand Mesa, the ski area offers the most unique views of Colorado’s western slope.

Purgatory Resort: An untoched paradise minutes from historic Durango, with 88 trails, 5 terrain parks and 35,000 acres of snowcat skiing.

Silverton Mountain: Lift accessed big mountain backcountry style – an “all thrills, no frills” for expert skiers and boarders.

Ski Cooper: Family friendly filled with history as the training site for the 10th Mountain Division ski troops in World War II.

Snowmass: “Snowmassive” has one of the highest vertical rise of any area this, ski - in ski - out goodness for families of all levels.

Steamboat: Six peaks, 3000 acres, Champagne Powder™️ and an authentic cowboy town.

Sunlight Mountain Resort: Ski here then soak in the largest hot spring pool in the world at Glenwood Springs.

Telluride: A box canyon town straight out of a Hollywood western set with a jaw dropping ski resort.

Vail: Seven backbowls, 193 trails, 5289 skiable acres. This, is Vail.

Winter Park: Seven dedicated skiing territories with a purpose built village and a snow train from Denver.

Wolf Creek: Mega snow, the most in the state with close to 11 metres a season.

Discover the resort for you in Colorado here.

Loveland Ski Area, Casey Day Breckenridge, Jeff Andrew for Vail Resorts

SKI & BOARD WE DARE YOU! like a Girl,

It’s no secret that female identifying skiers and boarders thrive in the supportive community of other likeminded women. We’ve curated the coolest gals only ski and snowboard camps north of the equator so you can rock it out and improve your skills in the company of fellow lady shredders.

BY ALYSON LAMB

BALDFACE BABES WOMEN’S WEEK, CANADA

Baldface Babes is a week of shenanigans at the infamous Baldface Lodge in Nelson BC. With descriptions like “connect with fellow slaydies”, “shred of course” and “DJ dance parties: pantsuits optional”, you know you’re in for one screaming good time. For the advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders among us, this women’s week is less about instruction and more about deep snow and epic lines, delivered by a personal snowcat. Following that, you’ll groove to after - dark bonfires and dance parties because everyday is cause for celebration when you’re riding pow.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

BACKCOUNTRY BABES, JAPAN

Join guide Chika Hayashi for seven days of backcountry powder heaven aimed at lady shredders who know their way around a touring set up. The specially curated, small group Hokkaido camp offers the ultimate Japanese cultural immersion coupled with once - in - a - lifetime backcountry experiences to share with your soul sisters. Emily Hargraves from Backcountry Babes explains “touring with a group of women together is just so much fun. Everyone is there to share in the adventure and learn more about backcountry skiing and splitboarding with an atmosphere full of fun, learning and camaraderie”. If out of bounds is your thing, get ready for days filled with hiking, pow laps, backcountry lessons, hot springs and Japanese cuisine on repeat.

SKI WITH KIM IN ASPEN, COLORADO

If you’re on the hunt for some likeminded laughs and ski improvement led by a US Ski Team legend then you can’t go passed Kim Reichelm’s Ski with Kim Women’s Ski Adventures Camp. You’ll join 8 - 12 skiers for a four - day improvement program, Aspen style. Think

après ski parties and boozy lunches to complement your on - mountain coaching. When it comes to your coach, you know you’re in good hands when Skiing Magazine recently named Kim as one of the “most influential skiers of all time”.

GIRLS DO SKI CAMP, REVELSTOKE CANADA

Founded by professional freeskier Leah Evans, the Girls Do Ski Camps are about boosting confidence and expanding skills to use in intimidating situations. Backed by a team of female chargers, the Girls Do Ski Camps range from expert - level to intro courses that zone in on big mountain skiing and backcountry riding. The aim of the camps is to provide a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all participants who are looking to break boundaries when it comes to female mountain exploration. What better place to do this than in the big mountain mecca of Revelstoke, British Columbia.

LADY SHRED, SKI AND SNOWBOARD, JACKSON HOLE WYOMING

Targeting intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders, Jackson Hole’s Lady Shred Camps are for anyone looking to up the ante on their riding skills. The four - day camp includes female coaching tuition, video analysis and the sharing of tried and tested strategies to get you tackling any and all types of conditions and terrain in North America’s most legendary mountain. With a five to one, rider to coach ratio, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get to know your fellow participants.

5

REASONS WHY

Banff

LAKE LOUISE

IS THE BEST WINTER PLAYGROUND

HUNTING FOR THE ULTIMATE WINTER WONDERLAND FOR YOUR NEXT SKI TRIP?

You’ll find it in Banff and Lake Louise, nestled among the spectacular Alberta Canadian Rockies and located within the protected boundaries of Banff National Park.

With a rich history of mountaineering and ski culture, expect authentic ski town vibes and laid back Canuck hospitality, though be warned, you may not want to leave.

Here’s five reasons why.

1

ONE LIFT PASS, THREE SKI AREAS:

One lift pass gets you access to ‘SkiBig3’. With Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt Norquay combined, you’ll have 340 runs to explore across a whopping 7748 acres of terrain and spectacular views for days.

Your lift ticket includes free ski shuttle service to all three resorts, plus exclusive local dining specials. Nice one.

2CASTLES, CHATEAUS AND CONDOS:

Choose between the towns of Banff or Lake Louise, both with a variety of accommodation choices. You can even opt for a castle by bedding down at Fairmont Banff Springs, or book in for a stunning chateau stay at Fairmont Lake Louise.

There are also a variety of condos, lodges or budget hotels. And both towns offer their fair share of amenities, restaurants, bars and snow adventures. All you have to do is

BY NATALIA JASTRZAB

choose your vibe: bustling ski town après in Banff or mellow and more tucked-away on the pristine shores of Lake Louise.

3SO MUCH TO DO: There’s never a dull day to be had here when off the snow. Soak in stunning hot springs, ice skate on Lake Louise, don ice cleats on the boardwalk in Johnston Canyon or go tubing, dog-sledding, shoe-shoeing or catch the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for views. Want more adventure? Spot Canada’s wildlife with Discover Banff Tours winter tours of Banff National Park..

4HELI, YEAH!: CMH (Canadian Mountain Holidays) is the original commercial heli-skiing operation, the first in the world and born in Banff more than 55 years ago when a group of skiers strapped a car’s ski rack to a helicopter and flew to a Rocky Mountain glacier.

You’ll find the CMH head office still in downtown Banff, offering no less than 3 million acres of possible terrain to explore and 12 private remote lodges. If you’re going to invest in heli anywhere, make it here.

5EASY ACCESS: Fly into Calgary then, voila, the town of Banff is a 90-minute drive along the all-weather TransCanada Highway then Lake Louise is just another 45 minutes further west.

Book your Banff Lake Louise Adventure with Travelplan

Banff Springs Hotel, Fairmont Hotels

Banff National Park Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Mt. Norquay

Discover Banff and Lake Louise, the beating heart of the Canadian Rockies. SkiBig3, located within the protected boundaries of Banff National Park, provides easy access to three authentic ski resorts and two alpine ski towns.

FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS & CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE

Early Bird 20% off book by 15 Nov

• Return Calgary to Banff transfers $3116 pp* $2140 pp*

• 5 star Fairmont Package in January for 7 Nights

• 3 nights at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in a Fairmont Room twin share

• 4 nights at the Fairmont Lake Louise Hotel in a Fairmont Room twin share

• 6 day Tri-Area Lift Pass valid at Lake Louise, Sunshine, Norquay

• Transfers from Calgary to Banff, Banff to Lake Louise and Lake Louise to Calgary

MOOSE HOTEL & SUITES BANFF

Early Bird 10% off book by 30 Nov

• 3.5 star Banff Package

• 7 nights at Moose Hotel & Suites in a Superior Hotel Room twin share

• 6 day Tri-Area Lift Pass valid at Lake Louise, Sunshine, Norquay

HELI-SKI “WARM UP” PACKAGE IN LAKE LOUISE

Warm up prior to your CMH Heli-Ski trip at Lake Louise!

• 4 nights at the Post Hotel Lake Louise in a West facing room twin share

• 3 day Tri-Area Lift Pass valid at Lake Louise, Sunshine, Norquay

• One way Calgary to Lake Louise transfer

Niseko Photography

to

A Z

OF SKIING & BOARDING IN JAPAN

What’s not to love about Japan? From bottomless powder, extreme politeness and culinary delights to public transport that just makes sense.

Alex Parsons lists her A to Z.

APPS. You’ll need them! HyperDia for all your transport needs, GuruNavi for hunting out the best restaurants in town and Google Translate and if you’re a little bit ramen obsessed you’ll need to download Ramen Beast.

BULLET TRAIN. Zooming up to 300km/h, the bullet train or Shinkansen is the way to travel with speed and style. It really is an experience in itself.

CASH IS KING. For such a technologically advanced country, it can seem odd to carry around giant wads of Japanese yen. But it’s essential! Cash still rules in Japan.

DIRECTIONS. The Japanese are expert direction givers and extremely helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when lost.

ETIQUETTE. This lies at the core of Japanese society. Do your utmost to emulate Japan’s excellent etiquette and you’ll go far.

FIRE FESTIVAL. Put it in your calendarJanuary 15th every year is the famous Dosojin Matsuri or Fire Festival in Nozawa Onsen. One of the three biggest festivals in Japan and a must-see cultural event.

GUIDES. Book them for the backcountry. They will show you the best untouched powder stashes and keep you safe.

HEAVY LUGGAGE. Japan has a brilliant delivery service that is cheap and efficient. If you’re spending a few days in Tokyo or otherwise before your ski destination, find a Yamato counter (there’s always one at the airport) and send your ski bags ahead of you.

ICE FESTIVAL. The Sapporo Ice Festival is held for a week in February and dazzles with ice sculptures up to 15 metres high.

JAPOW. Japan + powder snow = Japow. It’s light, it’s dry, it’s deep. It’s arguably the best snow in the world. Enough said.

KAMOSHIKA.

If you’re lucky you’ll spot one of these native Japanese animals walking through deep snow. Half goat and half deer, the Kamoshika are said to be spirits of the forest and bring good luck to those who see them.

LOCALS. The Japanese locals are really what make a ski town special. Be sure to take the time to say hello.

MONKEYS. The snow monkeys near Shiga Kogen are well worth the snowy trek through a forest - they sit in hot springs and provide perfect photo opportunities.

NIGHTLIFE. Japanese nights just hit different. Think tiny, underground bars, late night karaoke and too much sake.

ONSEN. The best way to recover after a big day on the hill. Japan has plenty of natural hot spring baths, or, onsen, and are well worth the initial awkwardness of getting completely naked with strangers.

Billy Pasco

Vending machines, via Unsplash

Niseko Photography

Sapporo Ice Festival, Niseko Photography

PIZZA BOX CHAIRLIFTS. These tiny, single person chairlifts are about the size of a pizza box. Slightly scary but very memorable and oh so Japanese.

QUESTIONS.

Head to the local information centre to ask all your questions. These are often located in a train station and usually have great English speaking staff and many useful maps.

RAMEN. The quintessential winter meal made of noodles in broth and a heap of different toppings.

SAKE. When in Japan, do as the Japanese do and try the local sake (fermented rice spirit).

TATAMI MATS. That beautiful rush grass flooring often found in traditional ryokans. If you get the chance, opt for a traditional style room with tatami mats and futon beds for the true Japan experience.

UMAMI. The Japanese word equating to “pleasant savoury taste”. Often

found in Japanese cooking like meat broths, mushroom and fish.

VENDING MACHINES.

Drinking beers and hot soup out of vending machines is a quintessentially Japanese experience. The novelty never wears off.

WHISKEY. Try the local liquor as Japan makes some of the best whiskey in the world, drier and smokier than international whiskeys, with iconic brands include Suntory, Yamazaki and Nikka.

X-RAYS. If you get hurt while skiing, rest assured that Japanese hospitals tend to be excellent, with food worthy of restaurant dining.

YOTEI. The mountain that dominates the skyline around Niseko. It’s an active volcano that you can actually ski into (see G for Guides).

ZEN. How you’ll feel after your amazing Japan snow trip.

Kitty bus, Niseko Photography

Statues, Niseko Photography

HOW SKIING BECAME MY HAPPY PLACE & SAVED MY MENTAL HEALTH

BY ABIGAIL BUTCHER

STANDING ON THE EDGE OF COULOIR, TIPS OVER THE EDGE, WORKING OUT MY LINE — from the run out and safe stop at the end, to irregular patches of snow that might be hiding shark’s teeth, waiting beneath the surface to trip me up — I feel completely in the moment. There is nothing on my mind other than what’s ahead. I can feel adrenaline surging through my body, my heart beating fast — and not just from the boot pack up here.

Without letting myself think too much, I drop. The turns come thick and fast and it’s every bit as good as I hoped it would be regardless of the danger — it’s good just because I’m skiing and testing myself physically and mentally and thinking of nothing else. To shut out the chatter and negative thoughts is a relief, and the mountains are one of the few places I succeed in managing to do so. This is my meditation, where I remember to be grateful for my physical health, my ability, my knowledge and confidence — knowing these are things I built for myself, by myself and cannot be taken from me.

How exercise benefits both our mental and physical health needs no introduction. Through the global pandemic we all kept our sanity by exercising outdoors, and there are countless studies showing how it reduces anxiety, depression and negative mood by improving self-esteem and cognitive function. But skiing has the added benefit of being surrounded by incredible

scenery, usually among like-minded souls so there’s camaraderie, too, not to mention the physical benefits of vitamin D, calorie burning and muscle building.

A recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry showed that skiers had a 60% lower risk of being diagnosed with anxiety disorders compared with nonskiers — which is no surprise to me. If the intro sounds a bit extreme, it probably is, but wasn’t always so — I hated skiing when I first started but purposefully upskilled in the mountains at the same time that my mental health took a nose dive.

I STARTED LEARNING THIS MOST AWKWARD of snowsports as a young teenager on a school ski trip but I hated it. I hated the cold, the wet and the falling over. I hated lugging heavy equipment around, the ill-fitting boots, the all-too familiar peer pressure: I’d never be as good as my friends who started skiing as young children with their parents — so why bother to learn at all?

But somewhere along the lines, thanks in part to a fun holiday with great friends, I fell in love with skiing and started to use it as a way to explore my mind. I fell so deeply in love I made it part of my job as a travel writer that over the past decade has taken me climbing mountains from Siberia to Switzerland, Japan to Chile, Colorado to British Columbia.

I’d been working as a news editor in London in my early 30s when the pressure of work

one morning rendered me unable to get out of bed. Crippled with depression, I took a year-long sabbatical and travelled the world — coming back to winter in Europe where I discovered an incomprehensible joy from being on a cold mountainside. You don’t have to be at mountain-guide level, either: if you’re on blue runs and conquering chair lifts for the first time, or taking your first run in the pow, it’s about the effort, reward and success. Even failure on skis isn’t failure, falls aren’t falls — they’re an opportunity to learn and do better next time. It might sound trite, but as Nelson Mandela once said: “Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again” — and where might this be more applicable than on the ski slopes, where it’s only by falling down repeatedly that you improve, and then push the boundaries to improve even more.

A FEW YEARS AGO I TOOK MY LEVEL 1 AND 2 INSTRUCTOR

TRAINING and exams, which I’m pleased to say I passed, but it took some soulsearching and effort. Forget moguls and long and short turns, learning to snowplough correctly (in order to demo to students) after picking up bad habits over 20 years was the hardest and most intense part to nail. But it was another mental plateau, a bigger win than skiing the chute, and no adrenaline required. Which is another reason why skiing will never fail me — I’ll always be learning, striving to do better and always taking joy from each and every single turn. Because it’s the sum of all the small parts in this wonderful sport that keeps me coming back. Forget the happy pills and talking therapy, skiing and getting out in the big hills is the best thing I can do for my mental health.

BECAUSE SKIING SO SUCCESSFULLY quietens THE INNER DIALOGUE, AND THE mountain scenery SO SPECTACULAR, WE CAN’T HELP BUT feel uplifted AFTER A DAY ON THE slopes “

Via Unsplash Sebastian Staines

Best FOR THE SNOW BRANDS

DOING THEIR ENVIRONMENT

BY ALYSON LAMB

PATAGONIA EVERYTHING

The most notable longtime leader in outerwear sustainability is Patagonia. The “we’re in business to save our home planet” mission is more of an action cry than corporate statement. Every step of the production and purchase process has been thought out with care. They guarantee everything they make, 87 percent of their line is made from recycled materials, they work to an Advanced Global Traceable Down Standard, they have an active Fair Trade Certified program that works with local communities committed to a Living Wage and create products designed to be repaired to keep the life of each item long and landfill low. We could go on, but you get the drift.

THE NORTH FACE FUTURELIGHT™️

The North Face has been providing gear for the modernday explorer since 1966 and is committed to inspiring a global movement of exploration while supporting the preservation of the outdoors. The brand’s revolutionary FUTURELIGHT™️ fabric launched in 2019, and is the company’s most sustainably produced fabric to date, crafted with 90% recycled materials and tested in the world’s most extreme environments. The North Face team added air permeability to a waterproof membrane, allowing air to pass through for better breathability without sacrificing both waterproofness and durability.

DALBELLO’S GREEN MENACE AND GAIA SKI BOOTS

Italian ski boot specialist, Dalbello will release the world’s most sustainable ski boot this 2022/2023 season. The company’s green boots are made from recycled materials that make up 90 percent of their weight and 100 percent of the boot is recyclable at the end of the boot life. You can see their sustainability in action in the new Green Menace and Gaia ski boots, made for grom kids to youth racers with one to four buckles, so you needn’t feel guilty when your kids’ feet outgrow their boots.

PICTURE ORGANIC CLOTHING EVERIDE APP

French company, Picture Organic Clothing, was founded in 2008 by three childhood friends with an eco-passion for the mountains - Julien Durant, Jeremy Rochette and Vincent Andre. They’ve been championing sustainably from day one offering a drastically smaller carbon footprint per product than competitors. Using natural and biodegradable fibres, recycled plastic bottle polyester and even sugar cane-based fabric. The crew walk their talk with an HQ 100 percent powered by low carbon energy with a green roof, veggie garden, rainwater harvesting and even a skate park for their team downtime. Now they’re offering a second life to your outdoor Picture Organic gear through the Everide. app – individual to individual sales of your pre-loved gear with all the security of an e-commerce site.

AUSSIES LEADING THE CHARGE AT XTM PERFORMANCE

Australia’s own, XTM Performance, brand was the first Aussie winter sports brand to be certified Carbon Neutral back in 2008. The team, led by Winter Olympian Pete Forras, is committed to doing their part to keep mountain sports alive and has pledged to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 as a member of the Snow Industry led, Climate United Pact. They plan to be landfill free by 2023, utilise natural fibres and renewable energy alongside compostable packaging and water repellent treatments that are 100% PFC free. Nice one.

ROSSIGNOL ESSENTIAL WORLD FIRST RECYCLABLE SKI

French ski brand, Rossignol, has already upped the ante with their Experience ski line using PEFC certified poplar wood for sustainable forest management and manufactured in factories using 100 percent green energy. Now they’ve gone one step further with a limited release recyclable ski for the 2022/2023 season. The new Essential ski also boasts a poplar core alongside aluminium, steel and polyurethane that can evenly split when recycling. Purchase these skis and when ready, Rossignol will collect them and recycle them at their own facility. Your ski components will then be utilised across industries.