As temperatures rise this week, the urge to send it at Whistler Blackcomb rises with them. Here are the mountain operator's top-6 safety tips, as shared through its social media channels.
𝟏) 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬:
Conditions are extremely variable in spring. Overnight, it’s still cold on the mountain, which causes the previous day’s slush to harden up. Any snow that sits in direct sunlight will soften as the day goes on. It’s important to take your time & adjust to these often quickly-changing conditions.
𝟐) 𝐎𝐛𝐞𝐲 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞:
In the spring, avalanche hazards in alpine zones can change hour to hour, so it’s important to pay attention to closures & signage. We may be in-bounds, but this is still technically avalanche terrain. Please pay attention to signage & respect it.
𝟑) 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝗪𝐚𝐱𝐞𝐝:
Due to melting snow, it’s advised that you get your skis or board waxed to avoid getting stuck in a situation where you may need to call Patrol or hike out. Our retail locations in Whistler Village offer tuning & waxing services so you can optimize your skis & boards for spring!
𝟒) 𝐀𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐬:
While cruising through the trees on a massive mid-season powder day can be an incredible experience, doing so in the spring is riskier. Obstacles like rocks, & fallen logs are all popping up & can be extremely hazardous to you & your gear. Also, tree wells are still a danger & you should be avoiding trunks & ALWAYS ski with a buddy!
𝟓) 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐧:
Protecting yourself from the sun is important – especially in the alpine where exposure can be stronger! Your Oakleys might give you a cool goggle tan, but it’s not worth the burn – wear sunscreen & SPF lip balm.
𝟔) 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠:
The lower portion of Blackcomb Mountain is getting slushier every day. Obstacles like rocks, ditches, holes, & branches are starting to poke through the snow. Save damage to yourself & your equipment by downloading either Excalibur (7 days a week) or Blackcomb Gondola (weekends).
