Skiers and snowboarders rejoice; it is your time again.

The five ski hills in the East Kootenay are now in full flight, preparing for the 2018/19 season, with Fernie Alpine Resort first to welcome guests Saturday, Dec. 1.

Early season pricing will be in effect at Fernie this weekend with four lifts operating (Elk Chair, Bear Chair, Timber Chair and White Pass Chair) with about 10 runs available.

All village operations will be open.

Next up on Dec. 7 is Panorama Mountain Resort, followed Dec. 8 by Kimberley Alpine Resort.

New this season at Panorama is a custom-built 13 passenger Snowcat that will move skiers and riders from Outback Ridge to the top of Goldie Plateau, 4,265 feet (1,300m) above the village.

With aircraft seating and a pumping sound system, the journey will be just as much fun as the tracks that follow.

New at Kimberley this year is a self-guided uptrack route within its ski area boundary. Uptracking (skinning, uphill skiing, skitouring, etc.) is a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and to earn your turns.

“Safety is a priority at Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, through formalizing our Uptracking program within resort boundaries we are equipped to allow both uptracking and resort work to be done simultaneously,” the resort reported in an update.

No firm dates have been set for opening days for Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Resort and Elkford’s Wapiti Ski Club – both December TBA.

Lead image: A view of Cedar Bowl at Fernie Alpine Resort today (Nov. 29). Fernie Alpine Resort photo

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