Hardwear Sessions

View More Photographs from Will's Ski Trip to Fernie, BC

By William Meinen

The weather forecast is calling for snow, snow, and more snow. I place my skis at the back door. I pack the rest of my ski gear into my duffle and set the alarm for 5am. I try to go to bed early but can't get to sleep because I'm too excited. It's better than Christmas. I finally fall asleep with visions of powder turns and face-shots dancing through my head.

The alarm goes off in the morning. I wipe my eyes, crawl out of bed, and slam a cup of black coffee. I turn the key and the four cylinders in my Toyota slowly sputter to life. The roads are covered in snow so I take my time. The sign on the road says it's another 75km to Fernie, British Columbia. Almost there.

I'm floating on a cloud of powder. The snow gently sweeps around me and over me. A smile spreads across my face and I'm yipping and howling in glee. I can hear the reply come from my fellow powder lovers scattered amongst the trees, as we all swish our way through the glades. "Yip Yip!" and "Yeehaw!"

Before long my legs have become Jello and sun begins to set. The day is already over.

I hear more snow is on the way so I book a room at the local hostel. I wolf down a pizza and share a bottle of wine with Katie. That night I sleep like a baby. When I wake up the next morning almost a foot of fresh powder has fallen.

Katie and I head for Castle Mountain, Alberta and ski fresh tracks all day. Everyone I meet is covered in snow and has got a goofy smile on their face. Yep. They've found the good stuff too. I'm not worried because there is enough to go around.

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow.