Inn on the Border Weather Report

Snow Report: Feb 8/12 Cooler

2012-02-08T05:56:00.000-08:00

Hi - Sorry the household has had a round of the flu but the temp today is -18 - which is good for stablizing the snow. There has been some activity in avalanches in the backcountry. Watch out of cornices - if they haven't come down then they need to are about to. We have been getting light snowfalls daily - nothing much a cm or two here and there, more up top but not the big dump. Snow is in great condition though and there is plenty to ride and the trees are really good.

Corbin Poker Derby coming up Feb 18th & 19th
Fernie Snow Drags Feb 18th
Cranbrook Poker Derby Feb 25th - that is our group of buddies that got us moved out to the mountains in the first place - always a ton a fun.

Hot tub is out of commission here - just a reminder - sorry it won't be replaced by season's end. Be safe, have fun and if you are wondering about April riding - I still believe it will be great! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 3/12 - photos from Tuesday

2012-02-03T06:24:00.000-08:00

The big avy let loose in Barnes Meadow right from the overhang all the way down and came out into the meadow about 1000ft. Glad that is down now. The photos of are Cooper, Boone and Curt playing in the meadow at Barnes. They went up to Limestone and the snow was so deep in the two drainages that Cooper had to get serious and give it another shot to get to the top. Was an awesome day riding and I think Cooper put his video on the Inn on the Border facebook group or he will today if he hasn't. Temp is -6 and we got 2-3 inches of super fluff snow yesterday.

Corbin Poker Derby is coming up Feb 18 - Vintage and Feb 19 - and they are having a silent auction. We are throwing in a two night stay for the auction. Should be a blast - great way for your family to ride together. Also the Fernie Snow Drags are on the 18th and that is always a blast. Great group too that has put a lot of effort into their trail system. Have some cash in your pocket for trail marshalling to support grooming efforts in the winter and trail maintenance (ie: chainsawing fallen trees, signage etc) all year long. We are booking into March now. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 3/12 Newest Cabin photos

2012-02-03T06:18:00.001-08:00

Our newest cabin is finished (except for siding on the outside) and we are calling it "The Flathead". It has a queen bedroom and two bedrooms with the double bunkbeds you see in the photos - double on the bottom and single on top. The loveseat is NOT a hide-a bed so 5-6 people is comfortable and two have to share the queen if you are having 6. Again this cabin is a no-smoking cabin and no pets like our others.

Our website is going to be going through some changes in a few weeks to update it with the newest cabin. Hope this makes it more comfortable for our guests! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 29/12 - Snow and Rain

2012-01-29T20:43:00.000-08:00

Good Evening,
Well it was raining lightly here this afternoon and evening. But it was snowing up top - you could see the frost line. Snow below 5500-6000 is very wet. Forecast is for plus temps all week between +1 to +6 by the weekend. Jeesh! But...avy report says that Monday night (tomorrow) we are supposed to get 15-25cm of dense snowfall and extreme winds out of the west. Another 10cm Tuesday. They call it a "Pineapple" system (warm/moist) is supposed to be here at week's end. So more warm weather with snow. Seems to be the theme. No matter what the temps do it still seems to snow a little bit almost every day. Just watch the avy report though - heavy wet snow on top of these weaker layers spells big trouble on certain terrain. Plan and know before you go. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Jan28/12 Trail Groomed

2012-01-28T11:03:00.001-08:00

First set of photos are of the side hill that fills in periodically as Kim and Kirby can atest. This is really deep and Shane did an awesome job of grooming last night but he too is worried about that depth. Photo of me looking up it. I wouldn't recommend stopping there. The other photos are of a mini look at what happens with avalanches. That side cut revealed the bramble that is under the snow and the voids that are warm. A bit of load presses down on these voids and cracks propogate and then it slides layer on layer or until it finds the weak layer to let go on. I took a photo so you could see and then extrapolate that out to the alpine areas. Just a little avy lesson.

Beautiful day at -4, lightly snowing and supposed to snow a bit more tomorrow too. Good day to be out riding. Cheers -V

Photos are of B road to the Pipeline staging area from the Inn. Boone and I went out and marked the trail and laid down some tracks. I would sink to my knees when I got off the sled in the trees.

Snow Report:Jan 26/12 - light snow

2012-01-26T06:33:00.001-08:00

Just a little light snow this morning. 2cm out of it so far but not expected to last long. Avy report has 10-15cm falling yesterday up top. Is a mix of considerable and moderate with winds loading slab ready slopes. Temp is -2 and expected to remain at that. Winds starting to drop down a bit but down here there is no wind. Should be nice riding this weekend! We some availability for next week and weekend. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Jan 25/12 - more snow

2012-01-25T06:16:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the late and short note but......it snowed most of the afternoon yesterday here and we ended up with 3 solid inches of snow - it has settled a bit overnight but is still come over your hood snow so double that for sure for the alpine. Crowsnest Pass was blowing like mad. It is a very nice -5 here. Check the avy reports before you go and have a blast! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 21/12 Tons o Snow

2012-01-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

Curt said there is a whack load of new snow and when Cooper got stuck (5 x that is) he said he was swimming in the snow to get to him. Down here it was spitting a bit and the snow got heavy and wet and in Fernie it was raining and the roads are SUPER icy so watch out. But up top everyone was in Limestone as visibility was really low with all the snow falling - Socked in. We have been getting snow on and off and now this evening mostly "on" for 12hrs down here. It is -2 here, zero in Fernie and it was +4 in Pincher (I was everywhere except sledding today). There are a few shots of our trail and the first creek crossing all of which is below 5500ft. There was a foot of snow on the trail at 6000ft. Flathead was good - corners a bit washboardy. Barnes still thinner compared to last year at this time but Limestone had 2ft of new snow. We have gotten about 3 inches down here at the Inn.

Read the avy report. Know before you go.
Cheers! V

Snow Report: Jan 21/12 - 2 inches

2012-01-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

Good Morning. I would take a photo but Curt and Cooper have the camera and everyone knows I have a dinosaur phone that doesn't take photos - butt of many old jokes. So it is light fluffy 2 inches this morning with clearing skies towards Crowsnest and snowing up top toward Sparwood and Fernie. Winter storm warning of 10-15cm in incoming flurries today for Sparwood Elk Valley area - yahoo for sledding - not so yahoo for driving so be careful. It is warm at -2 and going to zero by Monday so there is a chance of wet freezing highways. Flurries are supposed to continue to Wed.

The guys will be back with photos from the alpine -likely Limestone area later tonight and I will update with photos.

Read your avy reports. Remember North and East facing will be wind loaded. Curb your enthusiasm and take a look around before you go for it. Everyone has waited a long time for snow and warm temps together and we have a long season ahead of us. The crew from Sask - Mike's gang used the stay out here to take the field portion of their AST with Zac's Tracs in Fernie. I like it. Until tonight...drive safely, ride safely! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 20/12 WARM

2012-01-20T15:03:00.000-08:00

We just got back from Pincher. We left and it was -20 here. When we left Pincher 40 mins ago it was -22 and we arrived to a balmy -2 here at the Inn. No new snow today but it looks like it is lightly snowing up top. 80% chance of flurries tonight with -9 as the low and flurries all weekend as the temps hover around -2. Curt blew snow all day Wed and with the breeze we have been having it is blowing in today so I am on the tractor tomorrow as he heads out to bring back trail and alpine photos with Cooper.

Teck discussions with Corbin have been very positive and everyone has complied well to help maintain property respect so the staging area remains open. Thank you Teck! Teck is a company that strongly supports the snowmobiling community and sponsors avalanche and safety training nights throughout the local sled communities. Well done gang.

Remember marshalling is happening more consistently at Fernie and Corbin so come prepared to "user pays" anti up to support the grooming progams.

Cheers!
Verlee

Snow Report: Jan 18/12 Inversion

2012-01-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Hi - just a quick note....was -30 now is -28 but out at Tent Mountain the group from Sask reported an inversion of only -10 and Pincher was -18 today. Snowed all day but flurries did not set in. They said the snow up on Tent was amazing! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 18/12 COLD

2012-01-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

It is -30 today and no wind yet thank god. There are warnings and the schools are closed. Road opened this morning - at 5:30am I watched a ton of traffic making their way over the Pass and it is clear driving-not clear skies though. If the wind picks up then visibility will easily go back down to zero again. There were really bad accidents on the Sparwood/Fernie side before they closed the road so beware when travelling people are rushing to make up for a day lost. It is supposed to start snowing again here at the BC/AB border and flurries are supposed to kick up again and into the night.

We have snow up over our knees and the drifting caused deposits bigger than that hard to tell what the new deposit of snow amounted to but it was snowing and never let up yesterday and into the night. Castle email this morning reported an additional 25cms from yesterday's 33cms. South Rockies report this morning is up considerable almost all across the board. Wind loading faces and cornices will be very sketchy.

Per the photos - kids did a great job yesterday digging out a trench to the wood shed. Its a start on the rest of the place. Crazy Saskatchewanians - Mike Toni and gang have headed out this morning. OMG it is so cold you would want a heated visor helmet today! Safety first gang - there will be other days to ride. Supposed to warm up to the plus figures on Friday. Crazy! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Jan 17/12 - Storming

2012-01-17T06:04:00.000-08:00

I would take a photo but all you will see is a whiteout. Pass is closed right now. Plows are out but don't know how much progress they can make on an hourly basis just from the wind - road my be clearer but visibility and the idiot coming toward you on the highway is usually the problem. The temp has come up - it says -25 but it feels warmer than that. Wind has not let up and it is still snowing a bit along with the blowing out of the East. Supposed to keep warming up....-19 today, -13 tomorrow to 3 degrees on the weekend and snow a bit and blow a bit til Sunday.

Ron if you are reading this I don't know if you'll be able to make it. Keep checking the forecast. We are hunkered in and not going anywhere but our guys in the Log cabin will just ride out the back - no trailering! LOL sorry had to demonstrate that even on a storm stayed day the guests here can get out for a tour. Cheers! V

Snow Report: Jan 16/12 Snow and COLD

2012-01-16T17:14:00.000-08:00

Cooper went out yesterday while I blew snow and said there were about 7 inches of fresh snow on the trail just out back - this photo is just above the A road/B road split (Y). It started snowing again and it is snowing and blowing today and tonight so we aren't losing any. It is COLD though. -25 during the day and the east wind was no fun so ride the trees! Supposed to last all week with more snow coming this weekend and temps coming up a bit. Dress warm - Saskatchewanian warm - cheeks covered!

Crow Snow Riders Poker Rally on the 20th of Jan.
Fernie Snow and Mud Mountain Mania Ride and Banquet Jan 20-22
Elkford Sled Dog races Jan 21-22
Fernie Snow Drags Feb 18th
Corbin Country Club Vintage run Feb 18th and regular Poker Rally Feb 19th

Cheers! V

Snow Report:Jan 14/12 SNOW!

2012-01-14T19:57:00.000-08:00

WAHOOOOO! Okay in 40 mins from the start of it snowing at 7am at the house I already had 2 inches on the ramp of the horse trailer. Boone pushed show today while I was gone and good thing. Lou and his gang were up Alexander and said it was 18 inches of fresh snow and it was difficult to ride because of visibility. That is the North side of the highway which usually has less than the South and Corbin got more. They are out marshalling and grooming this weekend. There were TONS of sleds and trucks at the hotel parking lots in Crowsnest. I got to Lundbreck on my way to Pincher and it was clear skies and no snow. Came home and we have easily a foot of new snow down here. Temps are going to be cold so we won't lose any of it. Castle sends me emails and the ski hill has gotten 25cm of new snow there.

Avy report is considerable in alpine - watch out for rocky spots being the trigger and beware cornices, moderate in trees - propogating tree to tree could still happen here with terrain traps being something to be aware of, low below treeline.

MOre snow expected tomorrow - 6cms - still snowing lightly tonight down here. We are booked this week but have the smaller cabin with a queen and double bunkbed bedrooms open Sat thru Wed. Sleeps 3-4 guys but Lou's gang has 6 in there (I think they are sled crazy to do it but with the snow they are getting ....worth it). Remember our hot tub is pooched so leave your trunks at home - sorry. Go for a night ride instead. Cheers! V

Snow Report: Jan 10/12 - 4 Inches

2012-01-10T22:32:00.001-08:00

We got 4-5 inches out of that round of flurries. It is really thick beautiful snow and they Pangman gang said it was coming up over their hoods going up Tent (which by the way has no piece of untracked snow on it now they told me to mention). Trail was very good - amazing what a bit of new snow can do. They guys said easily a foot just right out back.

Temps are supposed to be cold tonight 2 -16 but go to +5 Thurs and then into more flurries on the weekend. Yo yo as long as it snows! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 9/12 - Flurries

2012-01-09T21:11:00.001-08:00

Hi - quick note - we are getting the flurries they predicted. Was almost +9 today but it is dropping to -10 tomorrow. At 10pm it is +2 and snowing - more up top you can tell. Supposed to bring 5-10cm. Keep your fingers crossed - maybe Alaska could share a bit of their 5 meters snowfall! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Jan 8/12 Icy

2012-01-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Hi Gang,
Well it is pretty icy down here at the Inn and the first kilometer down the trail - scratchers required but after that it gets better and better the higher you go. Still no fluff n stuff but more than enough to go lots of places.

Yesterday there was an incident reported at Shepp Creek. Check out the details at www.avalanche.ca and go to incident reports and find incident and go to Jan 7th - Flathead/Lodgepole and it will remind you how easy it is to get buried. Luckily the sledder was dug out in time.

Temps are going from +9 on Monday to snow Tuesday to -9 Wed and then into the +3 to -3 the rest of the week. With temps like this you have to be wary of the layering of snow and the effect of wind on those surfaces. Read the avy reports and think about what direction the slope is facing and which way the wind has been blowing before you go up anything. This is a good time to pick you way into those treed areas that you always wondered what was through there but the snow was always too deep to power through.

The newest cabin has the floor down, the fridge, stove and big TV all in place. The two double bunk beds are in place and the queen bed is not far from being set up. Trim is almost done. Siding may take a bit to finish but we will have the rest ready for use soon. The hot tub is pooched. Curt has tried a bunch of things to get it working but it looks like all hope is lost. So leave your trunks at home - it will have to be a hot shower instead. Sorry gang. Keep doing the snow dance! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 5/12

2012-01-05T21:02:00.001-08:00

Okay - it was +8 two days ago and then it rained last night and then it started to snow but through all of this it was snowing up top and the pictures don't lie. I have been holding you guys off but here it is - 18inches of fresh snow up top and the guys said they couldn't get sleds into Rain Gauge as they were getting stuck with snow bikes. Barnes was a little lean but ride-able and the Flathead is in really good shape. These photos are from Heartbreak and it was fantastic. Go looking and you will find snow....the guys say prepare to shovel lots if you follow their single tracks. Oh and Shep Creek was tracked a bit but would be fresh today and it was still good riding. Lots of area to chew up there still. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Jan 4/12

2012-01-04T17:25:00.000-08:00

Well I have seen less snow at this time of year and I have seen more snow at this time of year. Very ride-able but not the amazing dumps of snow we have become accustom to. You can ride from here its not like there isn't snow. It was +8 today so lower elevations are dry looking but Corbin has had a bunch of snow compared to everywhere else. Supposed to continue to be warm. Maybe we will get some midnight snows protected up in higher elevations for you to find. LOL. No worries - base is about 8ft up into the alpine and you can wear very little and be comfortable riding. Good weather for the pit-stops during the day. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Jan 3/11 Light Snow

2012-01-03T06:11:00.001-08:00

Some light snow fell last night - 3 cm. Sticky as it was +5 at 9pm last night and is -2 this morning. 5-10cm expected tomorrow with possibilities of light snow today if it stays cool enough. Watch the N & E slopes for slabs with all these temp changes and stay off of cornices and from open face wind loaded areas. Report is Considerable and Moderate - go to www.avalanche.ca Corbin got double the amount we got here the other day and got it two days in a row. There is lots of snow it is just a bit more like early spring riding so adjust your expectations and you will have a great time! Cheers and Happy New Year - V

Snow Report: Dec 30/11 SNOW

2011-12-30T05:46:00.000-08:00

WAHOOOOOOOOO! SNOW! 3 inches so far and we have our flurries still happening! Good thick fluffy snow. I am sure you could double that amount or better up top where it would be cooler. Okay its 6:50am - I gotta get going. Cheers! V

Snow Report: Dec 28/11 Rain

2011-12-28T17:34:00.000-08:00

Evening update. Its been +6 today and at 6:30pm it is +4 and our snow down here is slushy. There has been rain in Coleman. The guys at work told me that news in Lethbridge over the holidays was that there had been 8 inches of new snow in Fernie. The guys rode Rolling Hills and some other sweet spots and concurred with me that there had not been any great amount of new snow certainly not 8 inches. You can ride. Lots of people are riding - just want your expectations to be realistic. Two years ago it did the same thing - not as warm but very little snow til into January and then we had a really good season. Over 6000 you will see better snow than the lower elevations. I guess guys have been up Window mountain but no report on the quality of snow north of Hwy 3 yet. Kids said ski hill was really icy. Don't worry - it will improve! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Dec 28/11 Wet wet snow

2011-12-28T06:28:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Gang,
Quick note..not much accumulated out of that snow two evenings ago. Little bit more than a dusting. This morning woke to an inch of wet wet snow. It slides down the vehicles - too wet for a snowman snow. Forecast is more of it all week with temps between +3 and -4. Likely better snow up top out of this and likely more but not the big dumps we are accustom to or waiting for. I would save spontaneous trips and if you planned to come then be thinking about the alternative places to ride that you have scoped out in the spring rides to find lighter snow in the trees. You can get stuck don't get me wrong but the open meadows have been ridden lots. Also be prepared to buy passes or memberships as marshalling is taking place more often at the trail heads. Its a small price to pay for groomed trail access and maintenance. Take a look at the avy reports this morning too. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Dec 25/11 Christmas Snow

2011-12-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

I said I would report snow and walla...Snow! Just started about 30 mins ago. Looks like it could actually be a significant amount. Cooper got goggles with a camera in them so I will take those photos off tomorrow and put them on here. Sorry just coming down with the flu so no flowery descriptions. Will take more photos tomorrow. Trails are crisp, scratchers were a good idea today on elevations 5000 and below so just out our back gate for a little ways then there was more snow with a crusty top layer. Merry Christmas gang! - V

Snow Report: Dec 23/11 News from the alpine

2011-12-23T17:55:00.000-08:00

Well there has been no new snow to report. "Hero" snow right now - nice riding but set up. 5ft of base but no snow coming over the hood...yet...lol. Curt and Cooper were up in Barnes and Limestone - I don't think I have seen the trees that tall there. But they had a really good time and climbed alot of stuff, kept to the trees. Flathead trail is AMAZING - great shape - has been groomed twice now. Our commuter trail could be better - just needs more snow on it. The riding is just fine just no fluff or choppin nuts. Excellent base though. Avy report looks good. Crowsnest Pass area is very very very thin. Looks like fall.

At Corbin Staging area we now have a Marshall that will be there on a consistent basis collecting fees and selling memberships. At Fernie - remember that the Morrisey access is closed completely - use the Coal Creek access instead. If it snows or does anything noteworthy I will update my blog immediately - fingers crossed. Merry Christmas! - V

Snow Report: Dec 18/11 - Light Snow

2011-12-18T16:29:00.001-08:00

It is finally snowing! It was +4 all day yesterday and the snow was shrinking. It was perfect snowman snow but not great for accumulation! Today it started out as grauple and now it is snowing flakes - good stuff. Forecast is for snow Tuesday and the temps are supposed to stay in that -2 to -8 zone.

Shepherds were up this weekend and rode Rain Gauge. They said you weren't going to hit anything - base is about 5ft. In the trees you could find some lighter snow. The Flathead has been groomed twice now and is in great shape - marshalling will be taking place at the Corbin staging area so bring some bills for trail fee.

Was in Fernie on Sat and there were a lot of sleds heading out - no new snow there til today either though. Hopefully I will have more snow to report this week! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Dec 12/11 An inch or two

2011-12-12T20:52:00.000-08:00

Well it was snowing a little bit - a couple of inches at best but more than that up top. Trails down here are still rutted a bit and a bit crispy but the locals are headed out steady to ride up around the 6000ft mark. We were at the Fernie Snowmobile Association's Pub night the other night and had a great time!

Of special note is that Tembec has Morrissey access CLOSED. The club got permission and got the job done cutting a new trail to the cabin in on the Coal Creek Road. This is your new access. Al and Derrick and Greg said that Rolling Hills was really good but that they have ridden every inch of it now so we'll have to wait for new snow LOL.

Curt went out on his birthday and he and Cooper went out grooming. The trail is groomed from our place to Corbin. Just leveling out and firming up a base and cutting out the side hill that was barely one sled width wide. The snow is not worthy of a "Get out here its great!" but I hate to see you guys chompin at the bit. Come on out and give it a go but don't have high expectations. The snow is there but its not coming up over the hood consistently. Avalanche activity is reduced and the reports are looking better but just watch as that layer in Oct and the weather we had in Nov has put down an ugly layer that we hope comes down safely to start anew. Temps were -12 today - its supposed to get cooler. We often get the -25 over Christmas which is very cold for here and then it comes back up to big snow temps around the -5 to -10.

The photos are from last night getting a tree. Knee deep on the slopes and basically bottomless in the trees just out back and 500ft up behind us. That is our oldest dog Roxy cheatin and catching a ride with Sommer on the Arctic Cat. Get doin' the snow dance gang! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Dec 5/11 Dusting

2011-12-05T20:59:00.001-08:00

Well Curt and Cooper went out on Sunday and thought they took photos but it looks like they had a malfunction - oh well. Grooming will start on Thursday. The trail from our place is not very good - it is icy snow packed and rutted from hunting but at Tent it goes to 18 inches packed and gets better as you go up from there where trucks can't get to now. Max and Perry put on 70 miles one day and braved the trails. They were up in Rain Gauge and Barnes where there was more snow but it is getting packed a bit. Avalanche reports are looking much better and there have been some natural slides in Rain Gauge bringing down that ugly stuff that went through temp swings and dumps. If we get a decent snowfall we'll be on our way on for some better trails and it usually translates into more snow up top. Will get some photos as soon as I can. Our yard is a dusting of snow on top of a skating rink. Roads are good from us through the Pass but heading west it is patchy. Cheers Gang!

Snow Report: Nov 30/11

2011-11-30T18:08:00.000-08:00

Well I would love to tell you we got dumped on as Hwy 22 was closed today but....we didn't. We only got a dusting of snow down here and it is very lightly snowing. Likely got more up top but it wasn't the 4 inches we were expecting.

Terry is coming tomorrow so maybe we'll be able to get a report from him. Watch the avy reports - the talk is the Oct icy later. Watch for slabs and with wind watch for lee and crosswind loaded areas. Curt would love to get out but the cabin is requiring all of his attention and there isn't enough snow falling right now to entice him away from finishing the cabin.

Hopefully I will have some good news on snowfalls soon. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Nov 27/11

2011-11-27T17:33:00.000-08:00

Well it was +5 this afternoon around 5pm. Raining again mixed with a bit of snow. Its icy/slushy and the fresh stuff got heeeaaavvvyyyy again down here but up above 5500 its snowing. All day. Checkin out the trail the trucks are on it still hunting so it makes it rough but they can only get so high and then it was 18 inches total pack with 6 inches fresh - likely more down the Flathead but didn't go that far. Cooper here playing on the road up to Tent Mtn. Enough to go LOL. Temps to drop to zero again with more snow forecasted for Tuesday and Wednesday. Looks like it will try again near the end of the week too. Dec is usually colder especially over Christmas so I hope the temps will start to drop enough to give us a good bunch of snow and no more rain before Dec 25th. Keep up with the avy reports gang! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Nov 25/11 Yahooooo

2011-11-25T16:53:00.000-08:00

Well I have good news and I have excellent news. It snowed overnight and then snowed again hard down here and is still snowing up top. We got about 6" of new snow down here - Curt's been blowing all day. Rhonda and Matt with "THE BETTIES" from the Betties Power Sports Network from our place today and the trail (photos just above) was really good - pictures speak for themselves. They then went up the Flathead to Rain Gauge. The Flathead was a bit bumpy but there was a foot or better of new snow on the edges and the trail itself was based up with fresh snow on top. Been snowing on the guys up top all day.

Rain Gauge has over 4ft of snow total and likely 1.5ft or better is new snow. First and Third photo is the trail in. Look at the edges to gauge it. The creek is covered over and there is more snow further back in. Still a bit bottomless as Rhonda stepped off and was up to her waist or better and wiggling her toes not finding the bottom.

Hopefully we do not get the +7 temps but I think the alpine is a go. Just check the avy report first and ride conservative terrain as it is high and considerable for Lizard and the Divide ranges and that was yesterday's report. More snow is forecasted.

Check out "The Betties" at www.thebetties.ca where you can view video and even purchase sled videos. We are going to have some here for sale. So rev 'em up Gang we're good to go! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Nov 25/11 - Snowing again

2011-11-25T06:01:00.000-08:00

Well it is snowing again and its nice dry fluffy stuff. It is snowing right now although this shot doesn't show it. But....the temps are supposed to go to +7 on Sunday - what the h.....! Then it will go back to hover around the the zero to -2 mark and we'll get snow from that. So its just going to keep us waiting a bit longer. Base is building. Cheers -V

Snow Report: No 23/11 or should I say Rain Report

2011-11-23T20:04:00.000-08:00

Hi - was having a few calls and emails and as I was telling Kirby in Lang, SK.....hold off! Those dots are not snow - those are rain droplets. Hard to tell in the evening shot like this but you can see our steps are bare and the road is slush. It has been raining for 2 days here and temps were +4 at 7am and still tonight. Supposed to go to +9. It is snowing a bit up top but getting there would likely cost you a few parts or you'd run the risk of overheating. Just save your vacation days and dollars til it improves....it will don't worry. If you do go out somewhere please please please read the avalanche reports. Slides would be short but heavy and this weather is creating dangerous conditions. Our new cabin may not be ready til later in Jan. Just trying to do everything skookum so it is right for years and years to come. This just gives you time to buff your tunnel and brush up on beacon skills - no worries. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Nov 22 - Rain bah

2011-11-22T17:48:00.000-08:00

Well.....I was going to report on the 3 inches of new slightly damp snow we had this morning when I walked out the door at 7am but.....I got home at 5pm and more current would be to report the rain.

Above is Terry and Bob who rode over on our trail from Corbin and reported a foot or better of snow on our trail - I can confirm that from my snowshoe on Sunday. The other photos are of Curt pushing some snow and the newest cabin that replaces the doublewide trailer. Boone, Big D and Ron have been working tirelessly on it and it will be ready for rent after the 9th of Jan 2012. It has a queen bedroom and two other bedrooms each with a double bunkbed in them as well as a full kitchen open to the living room.

So okay the snow. You can ride it but its not worth travelling for and we called our guests that were coming the first weekend in Dec to tell them it likely won't be worth it. We are supposed to get rain all day tomorrow and then it only will get to -1 mid next week and then back up to +5! Jeesh - hard to snow at +5. It can be snowing up top with the lower temps and raining down here but I am going to look at it as +5 will just be settling that base for better snow to come.

Also - be very very wary of avalanche right now. Check out www.avalanche.ca for the updates. This wet snow and loading with dumps on top and then temp swings set up heavy slides. If you are breaking in a sled on the trail you will likely want to watch your temp gauge and sliders.

Well that is the latest. Hope everyone is ready for a great season! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Nov 17/11 Snowin'

2011-11-17T06:36:00.000-08:00

Here's what is going on this morning at our place. Got about an inch and a half last night with a little grauple falling on top of it after it blew a little bit. Yehaw! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Nov 15/11

2011-11-15T18:01:00.000-08:00

Hi - today we got a little dusting of snow even though it got really dark around 2:30pm and looked more promising than that. Temps are cool. Below is a bit of a list of Zac's Tracs schedule for Avalanche classes. There is also a new ap out for bulletins ready to go on your smart phone. We are getting bookings for mid January now. Cheers - V

Nov 17 - 20 - Fort McMurray - full variety of courses
Nov 20 - Grassland - Patterns to Prevention
Nov 25-26 - Calgary - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Nov 27 - Red Deer - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Dec 1 - Yorkton - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Dec 2-3 - Regina - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Dec 4 - Saskatoon - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Dec 5 - Saskatoon - AST 1.5 Classroom Session
Dec 7 - Lloydminster - Patterns to Prevention Workshop
Dec 9-10 - Camrose - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Dec 11 - Edmonton - AST1 Class & Indoor Rescue Workshop
Dec 12 - Edmonton - AST1.5 Classroom Session
Dec 16-18 - Valemount - AST1 Class & Field

Snow Report: Nov 13 - Corbin photos

2011-11-13T13:37:00.001-08:00

Made a trip to Shepherd's at Corbin and took some photos of the staging area. Sledders at Corbin and snow in Rain Gauge but stick to the trail. First photo is of where our A road trail/McCool Pass comes out at the Corbin hwy near the Flathead. Second is of where our B road trail comes out at the Corbin hwy close to the Pipeline. Third photo is of the Tin Shack start of the Pipeline. Last two are of the Corbin/Flathead staging area and some of the sledders in the staging area parking lot. There is enough snow in the ditch to ride from A road intersection to Corbin staging area - go slow though LOL.

Teck has put up fencing to prevent trespassing that first 5km in on the east side of the trail. They do a great job at supporting snowmobiling and we ask that you respect the active mining areas and DO NOT TRESPASS. Was in Fernie again today and it was snowing up top and a little bit down in town. Lightly snowing still here at our place today. Alexander looks a bit thin still but the road at the gun range has snow on it. Guys are working on the cabin trying to have it ready - will be booking it into January. Cheers! V

Snow Report: Nov 12/11 - Still Snowing

2011-11-12T16:22:00.000-08:00

Hi, we went to Fernie Ski Swap & the Gear Hub (they will be renting sleds this winter! open 8-8 everyday) today and it was snowing all day there as well as here. Supposed to get another 5cm overnight but I think it will be more. We have a good 8 inches now and Curt was out blowing snow. This will be the start of a very good base. Highways are good just drive slower and save someone elses life if not your own. Will try to get out and get photos of Corbin staging area tomorrow. Still snowing tonight lightly. Cheers -V

SNOW report: Nov 11/11

2011-11-11T17:09:00.000-08:00

11/11/11 and Remembrance Day and SNOW!

We have about 5 inches of snow. Heard that the #1 has closures and that #22 is really bad. #3 still pretty good and plow trucks are out. Here it is! Will make a really nice base. Its +2 and no end in sight. Cheers and Thank a Vet that we have the freedom to enjoy this! Verlee

Snow Report: Nov 6/11

2011-11-06T18:47:00.000-08:00

Hi Gang,

Well we lost the snow we had from my last post but we have a skiff that fell on Friday and it is still here. Only a dusting though. Temps indicate that the snow we get from here on will stay though. Horses have all puffed out with winter hair. Get your vacation plans going, your avalanche course lined up and start checking your gear. Good idea to PULL YOUR CORD on your avy inflatable back pack at least once to know it works, feel what it takes and to have a refill inspection.

Cabin has been a lot of work for our family and it will be worth it. They are back at it again this week after a few days off to run home to Sask and vote.

Our Christmas and New Years and first week of Jan 2012 is already booked up. Looking forward to sending you big snow photos!

Cheers - V

Morning After Snow Report; Oct 29/11

2011-10-29T06:45:00.001-07:00

Here's what we got last night. I am dreaming of a white Christmas - you?

Snow Report: Oct 28/11 SNOW

2011-10-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Well hello Gang!

We have a dusting of snow on the ground tonight - first real snow to hit the ground and stick here - now this is very optimistic. It certainly isn't noteworthy except that it is the first bit of snow here. Our mountain tops have been white for two weeks now from a stretch of rain we got down below.

Check out the avalanche training seminars - with Amber Woods and Zac's Tracs - hopefully you have been doing the online training to gear up your thinking. Time to go to the garage and start showin some love to your sleds. Make sure you hit the sled shows and see Jan Hoffman's cool new sled with Trax 2 Treadz.

Fernie Snowmobile Club have been working really hard adding to their trails - check out their website for updated info. Corbin Country Club has already been out to the cabins making plans and greasin' up the groomer. Crow Snow Riders are ready for big snow. Quadsquad.ca is also handing out their tickets for the next draw on the quads and many other excellent prizes accomodations and ATV merchandise certificates and A &E Racing and Marine has donated 10 helmets! Get your tickets there is $44,000 in prizes!

Okay - now that you are all pumped up - start planning your vacation days. The newest cabin will be up in Jan 2012 replacing the doublewide trailer but don't worry you like it just as much trust me. Cheers! V - hey SteveO - best day ever!

Quad Report: Sep 3/11 - Fire Ban done

2011-09-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Gang,
Fire Ban for our area is done for now. We got three days of mist and rain and it cooled right off with there being ice on the pail of water I had outside this morning and frost. Now it is hot again and temps are supposed to be right back up in the 20's again this coming week. Trails are a lot of fun and quieter this time of year. Hunting has started so please be respectful of them. Read your maps from the www.quadsquad.ca to see which areas have hunting or seasonal closures on them.

I am booking up for July and August for next year. Cabin is in lock up and we should have it ready for Jan.

Sask residents make sure to bring proof of your quad insurance on your home insurance to produce if asked. During Hunting season the conservation officers are out and busier.

Ride safely, if you have a fire then please be diligent in containing it and putting it out thoroughly. Enjoy the fantastic fall weather we are having! Cheers, V

Quad Report: Aug 26/11: AB Fire Ban in Effect

2011-08-26T16:23:00.001-07:00

Howdy Gang! Well the cabin is almost closed in - now we have to haul ___ to get it ready for winter. Not sure what the date will be but I will let everyone know as soon as I have a good idea.

Fire ban in effect - that means no open fires out there on the trail. It does not mean that the forest is closed - not the same thing. We got a little very warm, short shower two days ago but wasn't enough to take a chunk out of the dust. Volunteer to be the leader - its dusty. Has been really hot here (26 approx) for a while now. Mornings are cooler though - great for a coffee on the deck.

My family was out - almost all of them! Clayton and Linda were up from AZ. A lot of fun was had by all and the vistas were great to experience through their eyes for the first time. Wade and Jody and Clayton and Linda came back on their way home for another weekend of quad fun.

Congrats to Kayla and Jason who were here this week along with the Cardinals and MacDonalds who showed them the trails. Kayla and Jason got engaged out here! Looking forward to seeing both those crew again next year.

The Manitobians have arrive and Ed and his crew are set for putting on miles.

If you are considering Inn on the Border for your summer vacation next year I have to say - our regulars are rebooking a year in advance! We are encouraging long stays of 4 nights or more for a discounted rate. Our Thunder in the Valley is booked for 2012. We are also starting to have inquiries for dates in the winter. Have fun and ride safely! Cheers - Verlee

Quad Report: August 1st/11

2011-08-01T19:35:00.000-07:00

It is hot! It is also dusty in the open spots. Nice and cool in the trees. What can I say - everyone who has been coming has been having a blast, covering lots of territory and enjoying the mountain air.

Quad Squad has sent out a notice: #117 on the map for Crowsnest area (north side) is on private land and there are horses being grazed in there so it has been posted to keep out. Please respect the land owner's property.

Just a couple of shots of fun at home here. Cheers, Verlee

Quad Report: July 27/11

2011-07-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

We had a bit of hail the other night and a big short downpour. Now it is back to just right temps - not scorching but warm with a little breeze. Trails are not dusty which is a treat.

We have had an opening. Our August 9th to 15th is booked but we have the Log and New Cabin both open 18th to the 21st weekend. The Log is also available from Aug 26th to the 31st.

The summer started out so cool temperature-wise and the winter was long - come on out for a weekend away and smell the pines! Cheers - Verlee

Quad Update: Jul 21/11

2011-07-21T13:06:00.001-07:00

Just an update on the cabin construction. Rafters go up today or tomorrow. Told the guys to let me know when we were ready to have a beer on the deck!

Weather has been really good. A few hot days followed by a night of rain or a bit of spitting on and off for a day mixed in to keep the dust down. It is a bit cooler today which is welcomed after a few really hot ones. Overall the weather has been really good for riding of all types (Curt, his Dad Boone and Sommer and I have gone out a few times riding now out the back gate from our place).

We took our nephew Bayden to the Kootenay Trout Hatchery enroute to Cranbrook before riding the old rail steam cars back from Ft. Steele to Fernie. The kids have a blast feeding these big trout.

Available Dates: I have a few spots open: The new cabin is available this weekend thru to the 29th of July. The log is available July 25th afternoon to the 29th morning. The new cabin available August 2nd to 14th. Log available Aug 25th afternoon to morning of the 1st of Sept. New cabin available afternoon of the 27th to Friday Sept 2nd. After that it is pretty open with a few bookings late in Sept and in Oct for hunting. I think we are going to have a great fall for quading and dirtbiking.

We are going to come up with some names for the cabins as now the "new cabin" won't be the newest once we complete the cabin that replaces the doublewide. Suggestions anyone? Cheers -V

Quad Report: Jun 24/11

2011-06-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

A bit cooler temps today but that was +14 so not bad - breeze was cool and it would spit for a few minutes but never actually rained. Hot yesterday at +24. Weather moving steadily toward constant warm sunny temps.

After only two days of warmth Curt and the Moose Jaw guys - Randy and Murray, were able to cross at the 6000ft mark - snow was minimal and is likely gone now - waterfalls were roaring but the creeks are a bit slower with the cooler entry into summer. Trail of 7 Bridges was just right for challenge and being able to still cross.

July openings are as follows: New Cabin available evening of the 4th to morning of the 7th, evening of the 10th to the 13th, evening of the 18th to the 28th. Log open evening of the 10th to the 13th. If you are interested in any of those dates let me know. THE DOUBLEWIDE IS NOW GONE - Yahoooo! Cheers -V

Quad Report: Sunny Days!

2011-06-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hi - we have had overcast with short spotty showers for the past week but nothing that kept you from being out and doing stuff. Today is 21 and warming up fast with the forecast for 27 tomorrow and hot all week. I think we have arrived at summer.

July may have a few spots available but August is booking up fast now. I think September will be really good too as we have been a month behind from full on snow and sledding all through the month of April.

Our guys from Moose Jaw have encountered some snow around the 6000 ft mark and couldn't make it fully to the plane crash on the York Creek Trail but they have been a lot of other places. Curt headed out with them (Randy and Murray) this afternoon to Trail of 7 Bridges and B road. Cheers! V

Quad/Fishing Report: June 6/11

2011-06-06T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hi - sorry it has been so long! We have had great weather the past 4 days or so. +18 to +23 and smokin hot. Today was a bit overcast all day but still warm and no rain. We have availability in June - give us a call.

Summit Lake - a two minute walk from our place was restocked with 3,200 Gerards and Fraser Valley rainbows the other week! 7-8 inches and some 16 inch too.

We only have the log cabin and new cabin available over the summer as we are building a new one where the doublewide was so be sure to call in advance. July is pretty well booked up. June is turning out to be sunnier than in previous years so far. Check out the CNP Quad Squad's website for all the quadding info for the Pass. www.quadsquad.ca Support their club - its very low cost and they do fantastic work for keeping quadding alive and well in this area. Cheers -V

Quad Report: Weather Yukky

2011-05-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

Hi - weather is miserable today and yesterday. We were getting overcast with spitting rain all day for a couple of days and then wham we are getting snow and rain slush the past 24hrs. All the trees have snowy white branches but no actual accumulation on the ground. It is cold though at +1 and going to +5/6 today but there is a rainfall warning for the Kootenay area - 10mm over today.

Good news is this weather will pass and Sun, Mon, Tues it isn't supposed to rain it will be a bit overcast with sunny breaks and warmer temps. I would stay home til then depending on your tolerance for rain and cold at the same time. Usually if you are just wet it isn't too hard to manage but its cold. Horses were shivering last night so they got blanketed and fed more. Trails are very good out here - you can go a lot of places and we don't get the deep mud up here that you can find at lower elevations - just lots of great pools of water to drench you buddy with.

We have openings in June - book your trip before the mad rush.

For fishing....lots of winter kill at Summit lake but our local fly shop reports lots of decent rises. Cooper and Kale will likely revist Island Lake again with all their success there. Had a bit of success fly fishing at Lee Lake the other day. What will those two boys do for retirement that they don't do now? Cheers -V

Quad Report: Howdy! Weather is Great

2011-05-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

Hi,
Took a month off of blogging to let everyone settle down after an awesome winter! Our April ran just about booked the whole month! I thought May would be a month of late starting for quadding here due to the snow but....I had a bunch of guys out in both cabins with Ernie this past week and they went and played up Tent and started up trail of 7 bridges but decided to give the griz that left fresh prints his day. They said they had a great time and went farther than I thought they could.

The kids and I headed out on the horses and were surprised at just how much snow was gone. Yep gone. There is a fire ban on for Alberta (not sure about BC) but I assume that is more is due to the lack of support they would have if one started here and the snow is going fast. Slave Lake is a priority so error on the side of caution and be careful on all fronts not just with not having a fire.

The weather was fanatastic this weekend and it continues. Fire up the quads and dirt bikes boys and girls -the wait is over and come on out. We only have two cabins available for the summer and fall so if you book both or stay 4 nights or more you get a deal and you have the place to yourself! I can't believe it but June is very open right now. July looks crazy so avoid the crowds and come early! Cheers! V

Snow Report: April 23/11 Sunny

2011-04-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

Howdy...no snow today, +6 and sunny. Snow was melting in the yard but Beers went for a tour on our trail and said the trail was holding up really really well. Said they rode close and it was still winter riding even on stuff a couple of days old. The guests went to Alexander and said they were still getting stuck with at least 8-10 inches of fresh snow. Trend is to start warming up so all that base is going to harden up to hero snow but there is about 7-12 feet under you in any one place. Watch the slopes getting sun in the afternoon and enjoy!

Oh I wanted to update you on a message from Fernie Snowmobile Association:

"Morrissey Road is open to Snowmobilers for 3 weeks." They have ploughed a turnaround before the yellow bridge (after the switchback). "Please do not take trailers past this point. As per Tembec's requirement the road is blocked to truck traffic @ the catski turnoff past the big rock." They report that they have RECORD snowfall in the alpine and remind people to be safe and have fun.

Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 22/11 Winter Again!

2011-04-22T06:44:00.000-07:00

Okay plain and short. 4-5 INCHES of SNOW. Can't make a snowman out of it cause it is too fluffy. Trees are layden heavy with snow. Come and play - you will not regret it - new cabin still open for ya! Cheers - V

Snow Report: April 21/11 OMG SNOWING TONS

2011-04-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I can't upload photos! You would not believe this! It is snowing as hard as the hardest snowfall we had all season. Straight down, huge flakes and the train moving by is white. The highway is barely visible except for people's lights and it is not letting up at all.

Brian and Lou's gang arrived and said visibility on the highway was very sketchy. Can you imagine how this will add up on the foot of fresh up top if it is going this hard down here. We have lost visibiltiy of the mountains on and off all day but this is is thicker than ever.

I have the new cabin open. I can't believe there isn't a group familair with this place and my posts that isn't jumping at this. Cheers! V

Snow Report: April 21/11 - Conditions Update

2011-04-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hi - Jason and his crew rode the Notch and Barnes area and accessed it via the pipeline. They said it was fantastic snow with a Foot of Fresh snow up top and set up under that. They said the pipeline started out great but by the time they had ridden it for a few days and others had too that yesterday it was rough. They said they went everywhere and are planning on coming back soon to ride again. Just thought it was worth a mention. Cheers - V

Snow Report: April 21/11 Snowing again

2011-04-21T07:23:00.000-07:00

Hi - yesterday it didn't snow and got to +3. Snow down here at the Inn was getting heavy and sticky.

But.....this morning it is SNOWING AGAIN and picking up on intensity too. I think it will be a couple of cm accumulation is my guess but nothing huge but...great for this time of year! Had a couple of calls on the new cabin but no bookings yet - $150 per night flat rate if you want it. We will be closed from April 28th to May 11th - although I think we could stay open for hardcore sledders wanting to chalk up May riding. Just looked out the window again and the flakes have doubled in size. Amazing. Guests leave today and a new group arrives tonight! Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 19/11 Afternoon Snow

2011-04-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

Hi, well it went up to zero just now and started snowing so thick I could not see Sentry Mtn to East or the lake or valley to the west. I could only see the trees across the road and not the tower. We got about a cm out of it and now it is lightly snowing with visibility clearing here at the Inn but still thick on either end of the valley. Crazy. Not melting. Just thought I would update you incase we had more than a day without snow. Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 19/11

2011-04-19T06:10:00.000-07:00

Just a dusting of snow yesterday and temps stayed cool. No snow last night and clear skies this morning - great for visibility up top. It is -9 this morning.

Yesterday the guys went to Limestone and said it was heaven! Lots of snow and they played all day! They said it was awesome. Flathead it rough that first 5km but that is to be expected. Our trail is getting rough also so my recommendation is that you trailer to your staging area and save your back but we still have guests riding from here and it has plenty of snow base. Curt and Ezzy were playing in the cutblocks just out back and weren't touching stumps - jumping, climbing banks - they had a blast in the trees. Steve-0 you would love it!

We still have the new cabin available for this weekend for the special rate of $150 flat per night - no extra for extra guys. It will sleep 4. BBQ and hot tub, just bring your food and beverages and you are set for some excellent better than normal spring riding! When it isn't worth coming I will say so and it is still good. Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 17/11 Still Snowing

2011-04-17T07:28:00.000-07:00

Hi -it is still snowing steady with big flakes! We have at least another inch over night. It had stopped during the night but has started up again this morning and is picking up in intensity. Temp is -3. Did I say there would be no more powder on our trail.....shame on me. Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 16/11 - Snow all Day

2011-04-16T20:13:00.000-07:00

Hi -wish I could get my photos uploaded cause you wouldn't believe it! It has been snowing big flakes and not lightly all day with visibility being very impaired in stretches and it wasn't blowing. Derrick and his crew went out to Corbin and up just to Barnes meadow and lake and said it was FANTASTIC. Snow was at least 1.5 ft of powder up on the lake. We have at least 3 more inches from this morning with no sign of the snow letting up. Curt thinks he is going to push snow tomorrow. The snow is fluffy too! Curt's clutch needs love so if anyone has a machine they are parting out give him a call. Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 16/11 - More snow

2011-04-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry - can't download the photo but there it is zero and snowing. We currently have 2 inches of new fluffy snow from overnight with more on the way. No signs of it stopping snowing today. Reports from Les and his crew are that there was a foot of fresh snow within the first 20km on the Flathead trail. The alpine will be wonderful! The first 5km of the Flathead is rough but it improves per usual the further down you go. Their crew went all the way to Sage creek and back. They are trying Coal Leach road area today. We still have the new cabin open next weekend if riding late in April on the best snow this time of year since the 70's is on your bucket list! Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 15/11

2011-04-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

Zero degrees, clearer skies and a light 2cm dusting of snow overnight. Haven't seen our guests - they are busy riding longer hours with more daylight. We are supposed to keep getting dusted with snow for the next couple of days. Just started to lightly snow a bit right now. Ride Sally Ride! Cheers - V

Snow Report: April 14/11

2011-04-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Another 2 inches this morning! Snowed all night and so there will be more up top than down here. More snow in the forecast and still snowing lightly here and up top. Zero degrees and the highway was a bit icy in Crowsnest this morning. Avy report is moderate and low but with warm temps or south facing slopes that changes over the course of a day so pick your terrain carefully and have fun!

Snow Report: April 13/11

2011-04-13T18:59:00.001-07:00

It is +3 here at the house this evening and snowing lightly - picking up a bit as the temp drops. As you can see itis snowing up top too. We are booked this weekend with sledders but have availability next week and only the new cabin available for Easter weekend (Log is booked with sledders). Still worth riding but I would again say save your energy and stage closer to the area you want to ride instead of riding our trail - it is holding up great but there won't be any more powder on it this season.....I ...think....LOL - Special rate still on - Cheers! V

Snow Report: April 11/11

2011-04-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

Good Morning - its snowing. We had our first bit of rain this morning, drizzling here at -2 and spitting in Crowsnest Pass with clearing skies to the east. Looked like it was snowing up top and as soon as I sat down to write this it dropped a degree and started snowing down here.

Reports from guests this weekend and from Justin and his crew (frequent sledders here) were that Heartbreak and Rain Gauge were amazing with one crew going up and over from one to the other. Lots of snow - even fresh to the tune of 4-6 inches and it wasn't totally hero snow yet so there were lots of chances to get stuck. Another group went to Limestone and said it was still fluffy up there too. Another group went to the Notch and although the trail is starting to get rough there wasn't too much gleezing about it. They said that there was lots of fresh snow the further south you went it got a few inches deeper. There was a crust layer in places with loose snow underneath - a note for picking steeper terrain and avoiding slides. Rave reviews all around saying they haven't seen this good of snow at this time of year in a very very long time.

Thought I would show you our yard. Snow still piled up. Our road is thawing and the dirt is showing through in about 1/3 of the yard. I wanted to show you the "line" where the snow starts and that our trail still has a bunch of snow on it but at this time of year I would save your muscles and endurance for riding the trees and saddles by staging as close to the alpine area you want to ride as possible. Right now snow is being lost around the 4500ft mark in this area - we are at 4600ft. You'll be riding around the 6000-7500ft level for reference.

We are still open for sledders! Special rate of $150/night flat until I don't think the snow is worth spending your vacation days or dollars on. Then you will have about a month to winterize your sled (unless you are hardcore and are going to try for June sledding which is possible if you aren't afraid of a bit of gravel) and get your quad/dirt bike tuned! Tim (Over the Top Rentals in Calgary) if you & Tom have a few days off - its still worth it! Cheers - V

Snow Report: April 7/11 Every Day...Snow

2011-04-07T20:24:00.000-07:00

Hi - my computer was down again but it is fixed now! It has been snowing every day and the report from my guests on Tues was that the trail was in really good shape and the cut blocks posed all the "getting stuck" opportunities they required. Scott and his gang from Brooks were here and rode the Flathead all the way down to Pollock Creek and said there was 6 inches of fresh fluffy snow on the trail. We have been getting 1-2cm daily with big flakes falling on and off round the clock down here at the house alone. There is tons of snow and in all kinds of conditions: hero snow, fresh, the heavy wet is now a bit crusty but not too bad and that layer of sugar still sits a couple of feet down. This and the warm weather trend for this weekend will awaken some slopes so per the avy report for South Rockies...watch the west, sw, south and se slopes when it starts to warm up. Better yet - go to www.avalanche.ca and read the south rockies report. Plenty of safe riding with lots of challenges to pick instead of climbs. Practice turning tight radius deep snow turns and dodging trees instead. We are booked this weekend but open the next weekend (Apr 15th) and we only have the new cabin available Easter weekend (Apr 22nd) as more snowmobilers have already booked the log for that weekend. Oh ya - we won't quit til the snow isn't worth it - no sign of that yet! Cheers -V

A couple more photos from April 2/11

2011-04-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Yep. April 2/11. Today Cooper and Wade went into Tent and no tracks. Wade said just that little jaunt today was worth the drive here let alone yesterday. We have blue sky now around 5pm but temps are holding and cool. Avy report has more snow in the forecast for Monday. Be safe - V

GOT THE PHOTOS FROM APRIL 2/2011

2011-04-03T15:39:00.000-07:00

Need I say more. Call if you want a cabin to come ride April at our place! Cheers -V

Snow Report: April 3/11 EPIC SNOW

2011-04-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it - I cannot upload photos again. ARRRRGH! We got 18 inches of fresh snow dumped on us Friday night. The crew from Rouleau woke up and watching their faces as they looked out the window was hilarious. Curt had to push snow there was no way anyone was getting out or into this place. Then we all went for a ride - EPIC, FANTASTIC, BOON DOCKING on the trails! Stuck, oh man did you get stuck when you let off or fell off. It was a great day and we played all day in safe places and were worn out! The photos are great. It will be a week before I can get the computer fixed and the program put back on but I am gonna post them when I do. Check out the avy report as this new snowfall and temps warming (been -3 which is great) will influence the terrain you pick but the cutblocks are so deep it is crazy fun. Limestone will be great if you can get up the drainage - Jason said on Friday it was almost blown in and that was before this snowfall. We are still OPEN for sledding business. New cabin is booked for April 8th weekend but Log is still open and we are extending the special rate of $150 flat. YAHOOO......V

Snow Report: April 1/11 Snow Warning @ Crowsnest

2011-04-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

No April Fools - it is really starting to snow this evening. Started around 6pm and it is supposed to snow 10-15 cm tonight and 10-15cm on Saturday. Got a good start on it already.

I now have photos! The guys and our guests report at least 6 inches of fresh fluffy new snow up top. Was +4 down here and we are still slushy in the yard but again - not enough warmth to show dirt in the yard and no rain down here. They said the trail in in good shape, the Flathead is a bit rough the first 5 km but is still not spring bad. Rain Gauge back bowls were blown out but the trees were great and safer and Limestone has a ton of snow in it - no tracks anywhere in either. Trail up to Barnes is b-buster but worth it. Jumping into the snow it was coming up over the hood - How long can this last? Wow.

There is an special avalanche bulletin for the Crowsnest/Elk Valley and Lizard Range so go to www.avalanche.ca and know what terrain to avoid and then have a blast on the rest of it. We will still offer the late season special of $150 per cabin (now we have only two) flat rate. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 31/11

2011-03-31T11:22:00.000-07:00

Still no rain. It is +5 and overcast and our driveway is turning to slushy snow and the trail starts out soft but the guys said it was in really good shape and no thin spots and was even an easy ride. Up top the snow is setting up - no carving powder crop circles but climb and jump all day - snow base is deep. Guys went out to Tent and tore that up yesterday. Still can't upload photos but they look like they had a blast. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 31/11

2011-03-31T10:21:00.000-07:00

Still no rain but warm enough all night that the snow is melting and getting slushy on our driveway but the guests and guys said it isn't like that up top. Guys said trail is like riding water but it is great - not hard and lots of snow - no thin spots. They tore up Tent yesterday - lots of snow, sticky - no leaning over your sled to do crop circles but climb and jump to no end. We are overcast today and temp is +5. Am trying to get the photos uploaded - may have them in later today so you can see. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 30/11

2011-03-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

Hi - sorry am having computer issues so still no photos and haven't updated in a bit. We are NOT getting rain. We have had +5 and +4 the past two days but it has also snowed on and off every day. We wake up to a dusting in the morning and it is snowing every night and then on and off during the day. Staying ahead of the melt. I would say it is now officially hero snow but our guys are having a great time everywhere they go...pipeline cut blocks, Alexander cut blocks and a bowls, Tent Mountain, Corbin - it is all good. The Flathead has been groomed again and our trail is stiffening up a bit but still in incredible shape - no complaints. Doublewide is booked today til Sunday and that is its last booking before our new cabin plans start being put in motion. We have the Log and New Cabin available at the great special flat rate of $150 per night each put as many guys as you want in them! Don't miss this snow - seriously. We are getting some melt but there is no dirt anywhere in our yard or up from here. You DO NOT need scratchers or anything yet. I woudn't say come if the snow wasn't still in great shape. We'll be riding into May but the snow isn't even typical spring rock hard yet. Hammer, Rick, Wade, Boone, Krauss and Dano and Curt and Coop will be riding all week and weekend. Hope to see ya! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 21/11

2011-03-21T17:08:00.000-07:00

Thanks goes out to Troy Madson for sending in some photos from their ride on the weekend. Curt and Coop went with them to Alexander and had a great time. This group rides every weekend and knows their way around the backcountry (and trees...lol). So anyone wondering how the snow is - its great! Turning into a bit of hero snow (set up to go everywhere) but there was a fair bit of fresh especially for this time of year!

It is -1 and has been snowing that storm like snow all day with no signs of letting up. There are warnings for the Calgary area and Sask is supposed to get a blast from us too. Supposed to snow all week. We have some drifting occuring down here. Trail still very passable although it has seen more traffic on the weekend. It will be getting rougher but if it snows all week then that will be delayed too! A most excellent winter with no signs of surrender yet. Don't switch your track out for tires on your snowbike yet Roger! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Mar 20/11

2011-03-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

We are working on getting our photos to upload again - sorry for the lack of pictures.

Snow dusted our place last night - Fernie got 2 inches so out back should have likely got 4 inches.

Curt and Coop and Troy's gang headed up into Alexander yesterday left from our place by sled. Pile of snow - 4-6 inches of fresh starting at about 6100ft. Firm base all the way up to 6100. Trees were great - turning into hero snow so you can climb alot - be aware of avalanche dangers/terrain - but it is easier exploring those areas that earlier in the season and powder you thought....wonder whats over there....now you can go find out. Temps have been -2 with little or no wind.

Doublewide is booked next weekend but the cabins are open and we are only charging $150/night flat rate - put as many guys in there as you wish.

Snow is great and lots of fresh riding left. This gang - who rides every weekend in this area - is heading out on our trail today to take the B road. Trail is hardening up but it is still a thick base and you don't need scratchers on it or anything. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Mar 14/11

2011-03-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

It is +2 today but cool again. Snowing lightly this morning. Had mix precipitation for a little bit in the middle of the night but it was mostly snow as everything was dusted with it this morning. Sticky snow. Tree riding is fabulous. Continue to monitor the avy reports so you can choose your riding terrain - still lots of great riding out there in safer places. Always wear all your safety gear so you used to carrying it. We have open cabins and deals and we are booking up for summer so call now for your quad/dirtbike/dual sport bike vacation.

Supposed to be mix precip all this week with snow on the weekend. It will be snowing up top then likely all week. Temps are to be in the +5 to +7 range. Trail at our place is hardening up but we won't be able to groom if temps are too warm. Remember trail fees include maintenance like cutting up fallen trees, widening and repairing washouts so contribute to the trail pass fund. Cheers! V

Snow Report: Mar 13/11

2011-03-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

No hero snow here yet! It is +2 but cooling. Clear to the east but looks like it might be lightly snowing up top to the west. Guys reported 2.5ft fresh snow up top and getting stuck everywhere. Also - one group went into Rain Gauge & Heartbreak - tons of snow but also some dirty cornices still hanging. Two avalanches were triggered - everyone safe - one guy on the hill & nobody parked at the bottom area. They were north east and north west aspects. Propogated 400ft and broke at the the thin rocky crest but were not severely deep at the bottom. There is a sugar layer 2m down that weak also. The avy reports are right on the money. The other group went into our honey pot of Limestone where it was more solid on the ridden areas and nice a deep in the trees and off the beaten path a bit and very safe. Snow bungee was workin overtime. Flathead trail in great shape.

Was in Fernie yesterday and they had gotten more rain lower than us by quite a bit but also more snow up top. Heard they were heli bombing the dangerous areas and at one point only had 10% of the hill open a little while back. Conditions are improving as snow bonds but all this snow has created big consequences on complicated slopes - enjoy learning how to really ride your sled and not point and shoot it right now. Consensus is that it is fantastic riding and the guys are talking about May! Log cabin booked til this wednesday but then we are wide open for a bit. Lou and his crew are back at the end of Mar in the doublewide so call if you want a cabin. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 12/11

2011-03-12T07:09:00.000-08:00

Hi - Sorry had earthquake on the brain after seeing those sad photos of Japan - I meant to say its VOLCANOs that "seed" clouds and then we have a big winter following - not earthquakes. Thus the Iceland comment ....I have snow brain.

Sunny with a few light flurries higher up and west of us at Sparwood. It is -5 and perfect! Will have reports back from the mountain tonight when Lee and his crew and Darcy & Justin come back from riding. I am sure they will be colourful.

Had a big bull elk chewing on my round bale and was like goldy locks ...asleep against the horse shelter when I went out this morning. If you're driving through here - watch out at Devon Gas Plant and Bohomolec stables area - the herds move back and forth across the highway in groups of 40 and they don't move for cars either. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 11/11 More Snow

2011-03-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

Holy Japan!

We just got 3 inches of fresh snow that came after I was done blowing snow at 10:30 last night! That is 3 inches down here and although there are patches of clear skies when you drive west you can see it is snowing up top in areas still. It is -1 and no wind. Heading back out to blow snow. Doublewide still open ....$130/night flat rate....sleeps 5 at one bum per mattress. Hotels average $40-50 per person per night with no security for your equipment and no sledding from your door or sledding the 100ft to the hot tub and no bbq. Hope to see you here!

I was told that when there are earthquakes the following winter gets lots of snow. Thank you Iceland for this winter - I wonder what the weather fallout will be from Japan? Our thoughts are with Japan - devastating - can't imagine where to even start repairing the damage. They say there is a super-moon on the 19th - it will be really close to the earth. Effect is supposed to be nil but it can cause earthquakes or volcanos...so they are not sure. Will see on the 20th I guess. Until then....don't stablize the fuel in your sled anytime soon - we have guests who ride in May. V

Snow Report: Mar 10/11 Now its Snowing!

2011-03-10T16:38:00.000-08:00

Hi,
Damn camera stick. Can't show you the HUGE FLAKES FALLING HEAVILY- everything is blanketed and we will definitely get a few more inches out of this if it keeps up like it is forecasted to. Visibility was about 700m in some stretches of highway on the way home at 5pm. Bit of wind has let up so now they are falling straight down. Fernie got 9 inches yesterday.

Just a reminder - when it is drizzling or raining down here it is snowing up top (reference frost line) and it has been snowing up top all day.

New cabin booked now but the doublewide is still open. Here is how it works...."hello boss, (said in sickly voice) I am so sick, I am laid up in bed - see you Monday." Try not to have your buddies reving sleds in the background or yelling at you to hurry up. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Mar 10/11

2011-03-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

Took photos but can get them off the stick - having problems.

It is zero here and raining a bit. Was snowing this morning and the frost line is 500-1000ft above us visible from the highway on the trees so you know it is snowing up top still. We got about 3-4inches out of the snowfall last night and it is heavy wet snow so watch complex slopes they will be wanting to come down with the weight. Our tin roof is now empty of snow with big piles infront of the windows. The cut blocks will be amazing though and likely still a bit lighter up top then down here. We are not losing much snow with this weather. Highways are good - ploughs out in full force and it is warm enough they are not icing over.

We have the new cabin and doublewide available and really I have no idea why. Roger and the boys from SK are coming so I will have to get my "stick" fixed so I can post photos from their rides. Call now and I will give you a flat rate of $150/night on the new cabin and $130/night on the doublewide - no charge for extra people. Our cabins have bbqs, coffee, sugar, ketchup, and mustard stocked so bring your food and booze and enjoy the best spring riding we've had in March. Cheers! V

Snow Report: Mar 9/11 Snowfall Warning

2011-03-09T11:40:00.000-08:00

Quick update. It started out snowing lightly here but over the past hour it has increased. Just got back from Fernie (-2) and it was foggy and snowing up top - couldn't see much of the ski hill. Roads are in great shape still though and it isn't blowing at all. It is zero here at our place and snowing a bit more. There is a SNOWFALL WARNING ADVISORY for tonight - supposed to hit Elk Valley area (which includes Corbin) and we are supposed to get 20cm of snow between now and tomorrow. Aw Shucks. LOL. Was clear and -3 yesterday but the snow is remaining light - locals say this is some of the best snow they've had since the '70s.

Steve-O you are missing all the amazing cutblock riding you have mapped out within 4km of our place! We only have the doublewide til Mar 31st then we are down to two cabins for the spring and summer! Cheers-V

Snow Report: Mar 6/11 Top 5 Rides

2011-03-06T21:07:00.000-08:00

EPIC, PHENOMENAL, UNBELIEVABLE and in Curt's words his TOP 5 Rides of ALL TIME.

Cooper and Curt left here in -16 and got to Corbin Staging at someone said +7 but it was at least +4 as it is this evening in Fernie! Instead of going to Limestone they went to Barnes Ranch with Boss, Blaine and Jay. Cut trail in from the McLatchie and said it was chest deep when they stepped off their sleds in places.

Second photo....Ever have your Dad tell you not to go into a spot, just stay over here...and then because you are so much like your Dad you go for the big fresh pow anyway ....and you get stuck so your Dad's buddy Boss goes in to help you saying you'd better listen to your Dad next time...and to teach you a lesson they make you get out the hard way....and so you jump the creek infront of you (third photo) and actually make it straight through the trees like they said you had to or you'd be in big trouble...where you Dad has the camera on you....ya...we've all done it just like Cooper in these two photos. LOL.

It was unanimously amazing. Today Boss and his crew went to Limestone and consensus was fantastic snow hardly touched - not wind blown. Said it was snowing a bit up there. Great. Was colder today though and never really warmed up like yesterday - warmer temps on their way and more snow for the weekend.

Our guests Cole and Reagan barely made it to top of the trail in Heartbreak - said the snow was sooooo deep and had a great time despite getting stuck. Jeanie - budding sledder and her hubby Lee checked out the Satoris trails in the Crowsnest and had a great time, met up with other sledders - will be back with their sledding kids! Roger I know you are wild looking at these photos knowing you aren't here til this weekend! We have two accomodations open....don't miss out on this snow! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Mar 5/11 BIG POW

2011-03-05T09:39:00.000-08:00

UNBELIVEABLE! This is our trail! We had to blow snow yesterday morning with 4inches at least of new snow overnight ontop of all we got this past week so that delayed our departure to ride Alexander. We were so late that we decided to go mark trails for our guests instead. We boone docked right from our yard the entire way to Corbin AND BACK. Yep we spreadout and that left us fresh snow on the way back as we got the big bombi to widen our trail. Curt had never seen snow like this on our trail (I have a couple of times but it was amazing).

Top photo is on the way back on the B cut off to B road - we rolled it to get it out and you had to be on the pin - no slackin. The second is me walking very gingerly small steps up to help Curt roll it out (a few steps back I sunk to my hips and was crawling on hands and knees) We are laughing cause we are so tired - feelin' old. Third is me stuck in that little pasture right before the curve at Corbin staging area. This is the first stuck - shovelled like I have not shovelled in years (I was at least 5ft deep at the back end - down to the sugar layer) then I slacked off coming out of the pasture when Curt went over the handle bars on his....hilarious...and got stuck again! Warning - don't bring that friend that you have to always dig out right now - the snow is too deep! LOL Bring only those who dig themselves out. We were laughing that we were so brutal we got stuck on the trail 3x! LOLOLOL - we never even went up into the ALPINE! - had to have a scotch when we got home!

Will have amazing news from the top - Curt and Cooper went out today so you know Cooper and that means Limestone - we say it often but it is just such a great all round safe yet challenging place to go - its a sure thing. It is a good reflection of what the snow is like out there too.

March is turning out to be more amazing than it has been in our 5 years here and some are saying since the early 70's so if you can wrangle days off to come ride then get out here seriously - I wouldn't say it if it wasn't true. Hit it before it decides to start raining. It will be good later too even with spring warmth and drizzle but right now it is perfect. We have openings as people usually book when it snows at this time of year and not ahead of time so call us for a cabin. You won't regret it. OH - its -2 today and clear skies. Cheers and be safe - V

Snow Report: Mar 3/11

2011-03-03T18:20:00.000-08:00

Still Snowing! We got about an inch and a half over night and it has snowed a bit this morning and then started up again with these big flakes around 2pm. Drove to Nanton and this last stretch on Hwy 22 from Nanton turn off south to Hwy 3 was thick with ice and snow and Nanton was -18. We got back home around 1pm and it was -1 here - go figure. Wasn't -1 till you reached Hilcrest. Wind actually isn't that bad - hasn't picked up like we expected with this warming trend. Supposed to have flurries tonight. There is a foot and a half of fresh new snow just down here on our trail. Everything is too heavy with snow to groom - not a bad thing. Up top ...well we will report back tomorrow after our ride lol! We have the Log Cabin available this weekend. Always "Know before you Go" and check out the avlanche report for your area - their weather reporting and forecasting is very accurate and you will know where the sweet spots are to ride as well as what to avoid. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 2/11

2011-03-02T16:24:00.000-08:00

First shot is of last night at 6:30pm on the way home - sheep and big snowflakes. It was -17 this morning and not windy - now at 5:30 it is zero (even hit +1 between here and Coleman) and was snowing big big flakes til about 2pm then it changed to grauple (soft little snow balls)and still snowing very lightly - grauple. Surprisingly the wind has not picked up much with this huge temperature change.

Rest of the shots give you an idea of what our March sledding snow is looking like! Piled up everywhere and a shot of the virgin snow out our back gate. Don't go wasting vac days on anything but sledding this month - we have cabins available and for those nostalgic -this is the last month for the doublewide! Supposed to snow more this week and temps to remain around the -5 range. It is still snowing up top right now. Sweet two stroke dreams! Cheers -V

Snow Report: Mar 1/11

2011-03-01T07:16:00.000-08:00

It is saying -20 here but it feels a bit less than that without a breeze this morning. Highway is closed still from last night and schools are closed and I took this photo 30 mins ago after shoveling and it is now snowing hard enough again that the cpr shack is getting shadowy. Supposed to go to -2 tomorrow so likely the wind will pick up again.

We have 2ft of snow everywhere in the yard easy. Going to start to blow out to try to stay in the running with all the snow we have and are going to get daily all week. Looks like March sledding is going to be amazing this year! Cheers - V

Snow Report: Feb 28/11

2011-02-28T12:34:00.000-08:00

Can you see the CPR shack across the tracks from us? ...me neither. It is snowing big flakes and lots of them and blowing a bit also but its warmer lol! Its about -14 right now and supposed to snow and flurry all week getting to zero around Thurs. It was supposed to be warmer than this by now so maybe zero is a stretch but I am guessing -4 range is possible. Roads were open this morning but travel was sketchy at our area. The causeway between us and the Welcome to Alberta sign was very bad and it seems to get worse the further west (into BC) you go from us. Glad I brought the kids home from school as soon as I dropped them off because it is getting more and more difficult to see. We aren't even going to bother blowing snow as it fills in as fast as you move it. We have easily 6 inches of new snow on top of what we had yesterday. The horse trailer is 22inches high and raised on the jack so the 2 ft drift infront of it looks little.
Can't tell that Page has the lights on on the tree at their place on the other side of the creek.

This will be so awesome in the trees when visibility improves and we can get out riding! Don't drive this way today or tonight if you don't have to. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 27th/11

2011-02-27T21:27:00.000-08:00

Sorry no pics from the guys' ride today but they finally made it to Alexander. Said there was 4 inches of fresh snow between 5000-6000ft. Above that it was wind blown and set up or as Lou said - "hero snow" up top and they ride Alexander all the time. Cranbrook had their poker run this past weekend and the boys said they went into the backcountry and the snow was phenonmenal.

It has been warming up and snowing all day. Started out around -14 and is now -8. Snow was icy crystals to start but is now into the nice flakes and it got heavier throughout the day. Likely another inch or more on top of the 4 inches new to mid altitude. Forecast is for snow daily and temps going up to -4 mid week.

The Moose Jaw crew rode the Rolling Hills two days in a row and said it was good snow. The consensus among all was that the trees were fantastic.

The Fernie Snowmobile Poker Run starting at Coal Creek staging area runs on Sat the 5th and its Griz Days in Fernie this coming weekend. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 25/11

2011-02-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable! It has been snowing an inch or so all week daily - more up top and blowing a bit on and off down here. Now yesterday it was -24! This morning it is -30! Supposed to go up to -15 today though and given the weather last weekend when it went from -29 to -6 in 8hrs I believe this new forecast. The gang showed up from home and rode yesterday - are planning to go to Alexander today once it warms up and they get over last night!

Saturday is supposed to be -9 with it warming up to -4 this week and snow everyday. We have openings this coming week so take advantage of the warm snowy weather! Got the Crow Snow Riders groomer to come out and cut out a the sidehill that Robert, the girls and Coop dug out last weekend - it is all better now! Thanks Shane!

The doublewide will be gone at the end of March so we will only have two cabins (log and new) available for the summer and early fall likely while we build a new one.

Cranbrook Snowmobile Club has their poker derby on this weekend - they should have good weather - always a bit warmer there. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 21/11

2011-02-21T12:55:00.000-08:00

Great Poker run at Corbin yesterday and Sat. The morning started out on Sat at -29! OMG! But they just started a little later and by 2:30 it was -6. Crazy. We were at +1 yesterday and -1 today which has been very nice. It has however picked up the winds up top and Limestone was a bit windy on the top 1/4 of the slope. Rain Gauge and Heartbreak were super windy and not much fun because of it. That should settle down as the temp evens out and maintains.

First photo is of Jen winning a Teck sweater, end of the poker derby handing out prizes (Hi Ken and Annette! we see you waving you big ham), Perry scarfin' down a hot dog at the McClatchie/Lodgepole turn off and Sommer in the lead with big brother Cooper hanging out behind her on the Upper Harvey leg of the derby. We had 24 vintage entries with the oldest being Ken's 1967 Mercury and 84 regular riders Sunday. Thank you to all who donated their winnings back to the club to help us pay for the repairs to the Bombi - what fantastic spirit!

Thanks to Robert and the girls and Cooper for shoveling out our sidehill on our trail that blew in - TROOPERS! We have the big bombi coming to cut it out so we can maintain it. And thanks girls for the horse magazines - Sommer is loving them. Cheers to all! V

Snow Report: Feb14 Valentine's Snow

2011-02-14T16:38:00.000-08:00

I got my Valentine's gift - it is snowing right now and supposed to snow 30cm at least over the next week with temps from +2 to -6 as the week progresses. It was clear today but the snow switch just went off.

I went snowshoeing today and it was heavy snow but I was still sinking 4 inches. We have openings this week but are booked solid 18th to the 20th with only the doublewide open 21st to 24th then booked solid again.

Poker Derby on at Corbin this weekend with Vintage on Sat and Fernie Drags are on Sat too. Lots to do in the snow! Keep an eye on the avalanche reports and "know before you go". Looking really good out there. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb13/11

2011-02-13T09:40:00.000-08:00

Last night the winds were easily over 100km/hr and it was raining in Pincher Creek through to Coleman but we are just high enough that that changed to snow between us and Coleman, AB. Today it is +1 and mostly sunny. Last night we got grauple which is not a solid as hail but still little balls of snow instead of snowflakes. This heated up to form a lattice of crust. We got another inch of snow last night and the snow is dense but not wet. We still have not gotten rain.

We heard that hwy #1 is closed - not sure where right now but it has foiled some plans for people leaving Calgary to head west so we are getting calls about coming south. Our hwy #3 is open and there is regular moving traffic on it. We are not losing any snow to the warmer temps over the past few days as it replenishes itself overnight. Forecast is for more snow tomorrow and overcast. Waterton area is getting 154km winds but we are calm. Hope this helps you make plans. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 12/11

2011-02-12T09:49:00.000-08:00

Fast update: it is zero here and beautiful out. We got another 2 inches of snow last night and it is wet snow but holding - was blowing hard last night late too. I went for a ski and it was sticky but I was sinking in still 3-4 inches - not slushy but heavy. Check avy reports for South Rockies - it was snowing up top this morning still. Flathead should be groomed. Hopefully lots of stuff has come down on its own - if it hasn't and it is wind loaded from the past few days and then this heavy bit is added to it it will be not wise to be riding on. Again - lots of great slopes and trees to ride - safe areas. Great day to go for a ride. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Feb 11/11

2011-02-11T15:08:00.000-08:00

First photo is of this afternoon - it is snowing big flakes and about -1 out. Was +1 earlier this morning and I went for a ski on our trail - was about 2-3inches of soft snow on the base of the trail and you would sink to your knee off trail still in spots. Been blowing a bit from the 7th when Cooper took this bottom photo - the brown stuff at the far left in the pasture is a huge herd of Elk. Watch out driving west of Coleman for them - they are down daily (also the sheep are out at the Lakes east of us).

Temps are beautiful for sledding. Check the avy report for your area before you go and then enjoy yourself this weekend.

Corbin Poker Derby is the 19th (vintage that day) and 20th - regular ride. They are grooming tonight and then again before the derby. Fernie Snow Drags are on the 19th also. We are booked solid for that weekend and the last weekend of Feb but the Doublewide is available during the Feb break week. Weather forecast is very favorable. Cheers - V

Snow Report: Feb 7/11

2011-02-07T16:53:00.001-08:00

Quick update. Hovered around the -8 mark most of the day. Visibility this morning delayed the kids going to school but it cleared by 9:00am and remained snowing up top all day and still tonight. Snow is supposed to stop by morning and then more snow in the forecast for Sat and Sun. Temps to go to zero and +1/-1 by late week/weekend.

Blew snow today out of the yard. We got about 3 inches down here but it was blown in in areas a foot or so deep.

A bad accident at the Lakes halted traffic over the Pass most of the day - please slow down when traveling through that area when you come.

We are getting snow and good temps - should be good riding this week and weekend.
Cheers - V

Snow Report: Feb 6/11

2011-02-06T09:20:00.000-08:00

Snowing late yesterday and last night lightly and still today - visibility low up top. Just a bit more than a dusting - an inch down here.

All our guests were thoroughly impressed by the snow they found in Rain Gauge, Heartbreak, Limetone, Alexander and even just playing on Barnes Lake. The word Epic was used again for the amount of snow. Its about -2 and no sign of this light snow ending. The forecast looks favorable temp and snow wise. We have openings this week and weekend. Cheers -V

Snow Report: Feb 4/11

2011-02-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

The Peter Randall crew went riding with Curt.....god help them. After riding Alexander yesterday they were hesitant to head out to Limestone today but after a morning coffee they are gungho again. LOL - they had lots of laughs and found all the snow they could ask for. The middle photo is the "drainage" that Curt thought "what's down there?" Luckily it opened up at the bottom but there was some boulder hopping on the way down and lots of snow!

Today is fantastic! It is zero and snowing lightly down here and more up top. Unbelieveable swing in temps this past week. Snow is in really great condition and you will find powder. Cooper taking the day off school to go ride today with Curt. Too good to pass up.

The doublewide booked for Feb18th weekend but is still open the Feb break week starting the 21st (could have an arrival date of the 20th late afternoon). Cheers -V.