Calgary, Canada (PressExposure) November 17, 2010 -- A snow storm, on November 15, blanketed southern Alberta with the first real snow of the season. The conditions for skiing in Banff National Park have improved exponentially with local ski resorts getting much needed snow. Sunshine Village Ski Resort received 22 cm (9.7 in) of snow in the last 48 hours with 16 cm (7.1 in) arriving overnight. Lake Louise received 9 cm (4 in) over the past 24 hours. And, it's still snowing with more snow expected throughout the week.
The last ski resort in the Banff area to open, Sunshine Village, is a popular resort that boasts some of the finest "champagne" powder in North America. The ski resort is opening this weekend. It's a family resort with ski and snowboarding terrain for all levels of expertise, including advanced/expert.
The Banff ski season is ramping up better than expected and for those looking to get involved in ski/snowboarding clubs or programs, registration is ongoing during the month of November. At Lake Louise, there are several new programs including a program targeted at young children to help them develop a life-long passion for skiing. And, there the Evolve SSX Ski/Snowboard Cross Club is unique in Canada. The training will be at the new ski/snowboard course being built at Lake Louise.
Mt. Norquay is offering pre-season race training for alpine ski racing clubs starting on November 13 - 30. The ski resort upgraded the snow making equipment, widened the course, and improved the difficulty of the course. Mt. Norquay is open on weekends only to the general public. The resort is offering discounted lift tickets. They will open fully on December 3.
The long-term weather forecast is calling for scattered flurries between 1 - 5 cm per day until Saturday. However, the temperatures are also brisk at -12 to -17C during this period. For enthusiasts and season pass holders, the early season conditions are terrific and will remain so in the near future.