March 2, 2022
The snow just keeps on coming! According to the weather station on the Ridge Run (thanks Weatherman Bill), over 20 cm have blanketed Cain in recent days. But before you grab your skins and start skinning up, there are some essential things to remember.
Assume responsibility: Where your backcountry adventure begins, Mount Cain’s responsibility ends. Once you go outside the orange boundary line, you are on your own. Please make sure you have the knowledge, equipment, and trip plan that gets you back safely.
Check the conditions: This snow has been mixed with rain and temperature varying from -2°C to 1.9°C. This can make for unstable conditions, so please check Avalanche Canada and follow their recommendations.
Have the proper training: Please do not go into the backcountry without the appropriate training, which includes training to determine the risk of an avalanche. Courses are offered through Island Alpine Guides.
Have the right gear: Make sure you have the right gear for backcountry adventures – gear that keeps you warm and safe, including avalanche gear.
Last week a skier was caught in an avalanche in the West Bowl. They had the right equipment which helped prevent them from being seriously injured or completely buried, resulting in a self extrication. Please make sure you reduce the risk of being caught in an avalanche and know what to do if you are.
On a lighter note, many Vikings will be going berserk at Viking Fest on Saturday, March 5. There are awards for best Viking Warriors, a ski/boarder cross, and an axe throwing contest (really, only at Cain).
Mount Cain is open from March 19-27 for Spring Break! We will kick off the week with Kidsfest on March 19 – open to skiers and boarders under 16 years old.
Finally, I want to give a shout-out to all the young skiers on the hill. The Wolf Pack was pretty impressive last week as they tackled the deep snow on Rollercoaster with gusto, putting on a show for everyone on the T bar. (and kudos to the instructors who had to dig out a few pack members). And to those not yet big enough to be part of the Wolf Pack but just as eager to strap on the skis, like 3 year old twins Johnny and Gordie who made it up the T Bar for the first time this season! (and to all the parents whose legs and backs are exhausted but whose smiles are huge as they get their kids up the T and down the hill).
It is .9°C degrees on the Ridge Run with a 212cm base. The forecast calls for sunshine this weekend, so don’t forget to pack some sunscreen along with your Viking attire.
See you on the slopes,
Jen
