By ALEX LEE
I am an avid Hotham skier.
I love the terrain and the thrill of skiing powder amongst the snowgums that are so unique to us here in the Australian alps.
Inevitably though, like many other Aussie skiers and boarders, when summer hits and temperatures start to rise, I find myself looking to the northern hemisphere to escape the heat and chase the ski dream.
As a snow specialist travel agent, I take my job seriously in finding that perfect ski resort that I can recommend to my clients.
A resort with consistent snow quality, steep/varied terrain, great dining/après options and minimal lift lines is on many skiers' wish lists.
I have skied at over 40 ski resorts worldwide, but my recent trip to Canada’s aptly named Powder Highway in March this year could well have been my best ski holiday yet.
March is springtime in Canada and such was my confidence that we’d have bluebird groomers, sunny days and afternoon après in the sun that I didn’t pack a low light goggle lens.
What we got was quite the opposite - 12 consistent days of deep powder, and some of the deepest turns of my life!
I found a couple of contenders for the ‘perfect resort’ on this trip, and the best news for Hotham and Falls skiers is that these resorts are affiliated with the Epic Australia pass (five days included).
If you’re keen to make use of your Epic pass and are not keen for the crowds of Whistler and Hakuba, here’s my tip for the best resorts for your next northern hemisphere ski trip.
1. The All Rounder – Fernie
The unicorn resort offering something for everyone.
A great ski town in Fernie itself, which is a five minute drive from the lifts, fantastic on mountain accommodation (recommend Lizard Creek Lodge), and buzzing après and dining options at the resort.
The terrain? Amazing – some of the steepest consistent pitch I’ve skied on a run called ‘Big Bang’ (among others) for those seeking steeps, endless open powder bowls, perfect gladed trees, and long, cruisy groomers for all abilities, all with no lift lines!
2. The Hidden Gem – Kimberley Alpine Resort
Kimberley is a resort that definitely flies under the radar.
I skied here from first to last chair and had an absolute ball.
Three unassuming lifts cover some fantastic extensive terrain – think perfectly gladed runs amongst picturesque pencil pines, and long groomers with perfect pitch.
The best part? Completely uncrowded.
We skied straight onto every chair, all day.
Stay at Trickle Creek Lodge to be right in the action, and have an après drink with the locals at The Stemwinder for an authentic Canadian experience.
3. For the Extreme Skiers – Kicking Horse
Kicking Horse has long time been a favourite of mine.
The challenging chutes and bowls here set amongst a background of the stunning Rocky Mountain peaks make it a must visit for any advanced skier.
Don’t miss having lunch at the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant at the top of the gondola for one of the best mountain views in the world!
NB: Alex Lee is a senior travel consultant at Travel & Cruise North East and can be contacted via email alex@travelncruise.com.au or phone (03) 5755 1121.
