The ski season at Apex Mountain Resort ended following a challenging season for local ski hills in British Columbia. Ski hills first faced little to no snow on the ground and then extreme weather conditions, including extreme cold and warm weather. This cycle of challenging weather persisted throughout the season, making it difficult for ski resorts like Apex Mountain and Big White Ski Resort. Despite traffic being down compared to previous years, Apex Mountain saw strong and steady weekend visitors, but overall numbers were impacted by the challenging snow conditions. Silverstar Mountain Resort near Vernon has limited runs open until Sunday, while Big White announced it will be staying open an extra week this winter, closing on April 14th to accommodate their loyal customers.
The vice-president of Big White Ski Resort, Michael J. Ballingall, expressed how Mother Nature threw curveballs at the ski hills this season, with some days being successful while others required them to simply absorb the challenges. Despite the difficulties faced this season, there is hope for the next season as the El Nino phase, which has impacted snow levels, is phasing out and transitioning into a La Nina phase. La Nina typically brings better snow conditions, leading to an optimistic forecast for the upcoming season. The closure of the ski season marks the end of a rollercoaster season with varying weather conditions, but ski resorts like Big White are looking forward to the potential for better conditions in the future under the La Nina phase.
Apex Mountain Resort general manager James Shalman stated that the challenging snow conditions this season impacted the overall numbers, with traffic being down from previous years. Shalman highlighted the slow start to the season and the cycle of extreme weather conditions that persisted throughout the winter, affecting the ski resort’s operations. Despite the challenges, weekends remained strong and steady, but the overall numbers were not as high as during a phenomenal snow year like the previous one. Despite the setbacks, there is optimism for the next season with the transition from El Nino to La Nina, which typically brings better snow conditions and improved skiing opportunities for visitors.
Silverstar Mountain Resort in Vernon has limited runs open until Sunday, while Big White Ski Resort announced an extension of their season, closing on April 14th to accommodate the Central Okanagan base and loyal customers. Despite facing competition from other outdoor activities as the season transitions into spring, Big White decided to fulfill their promise to stay open for an extra week to celebrate their 60-year anniversary and serve their customer base. The decision to extend the season reflects a commitment to customer satisfaction and loyalty, even in the face of challenging weather conditions and changing seasons. Ski resorts in British Columbia are looking ahead to the next season with optimism, as the forecast for better snow conditions under the La Nina phase promises improved skiing experiences for visitors.
In conclusion, the ski season at Apex Mountain Resort and other ski hills in British Columbia ended with various challenges caused by a slow start, extreme weather conditions, and fluctuating snow levels. Despite the impact on overall numbers and traffic, ski resorts like Apex Mountain and Big White adapted to the challenging conditions and made adjustments to accommodate visitors. Looking ahead, the transition from El Nino to La Nina brings hope for better snow conditions and a promising forecast for the next season. The extension of the season at Big White reflects a commitment to customer satisfaction and loyalty, despite facing competition from other outdoor activities as the winter season comes to a close. Ski resorts are optimistic about the opportunities and experiences that the upcoming season under the La Nina phase will bring for both locals and visitors.
