Updated:
Opening Day: the ultimate ski season checklist
with files from Lisa Monforton/Joanne Elves
Winter wonderland alert! Fresh snow has arrived early this year! The 2024-25 ski season officially opened in Canada on November 5 at Lake Louise. (More ski resorts will soon follow suit.)
Rushing to get everything prepped for your first trip to the slopes this season? Our SnowSeekers team has some tips for how to make your opening day of skiing or snowboarding for the 2024-25 ski season as smooth as possible.
1. Secure your passes and tickets
Purchase your season pass, savings card, or RFID pre-load card before opening day to avoid long lines and potential delays at the ticket office.
Excited for the opening day launch at Lake Louise on November 5? Get your skis and lift tickets ready!
2. Inspect and prepare your gear
- Equipment check: Lay out all your gear—skis, snowboards, boots, bindings, poles, and helmets—to inspect for any damage or wear. This will also give your stuff an opportunity to breathe and air out. (Bonus points: why not put it all on and practice your butter/manual in the living room?)
- Wax and tune: Scrape off storage wax and/or get a fresh wax suitable for early season conditions. Get more tips for tuning and waxing here.
- Boot maintenance: Take the liners out of your boots to make sure the foot bed and liners are dry and still in good shape.
Snow-covered mountain peak with ski gear lined up, overlooking stunning alpine scenery. Perfect for winter enthusiasts!
3. Prepare your clothing and accessories
- Wash and dry soft goods: Last thing you want is a musty, crusty neck tube against your face all day. Trust.
- Layer it up! Early-season weather can be unpredictable. Plan your layers to accommodate varying temperatures and conditions.
- Goggles and lenses: Make sure you change out your goggle lens if you need to adjust the tint for November riding.
- SnowSeekers Hack: Pack a small rubber-backed mat (welcome mat or bath mat) in your vehicle to rest your foot down on while getting your boots on in the parking lot. Check out this story on more hacks!
Snowboarders taking an intro lesson at Nakiska to brush up their skills.
4. Pre-Ski Warm-Up
Proper warm-up before hitting the lifts can do wonders to prevent injuries. Simple stretches and movements can prepare your body for the big day!
Here’s a really handy, simple ski warm up from Warren Smith Ski Academy.
5. Plan ahead
- Check snow conditions: Stay updated on snow forecasts and resort conditions to choose the best days for skiing. Early-season conditions can vary, so being informed helps you plan effectively.
- Book accommodations early: Secure lodging well in advance, as popular resorts can fill up quickly during opening weeks.
- Transportation Arrangements: Plan your travel to and from the resort, considering factors like road conditions and parking availability.
Photo:
Chris Mossley
Lake Louise, first ski resort to open in Canada for the 2024-25 ski season.
6. Safety and etiquette
- Follow resort guidelines: Adhere to all posted signs and stay on designated runs. Remember to keep your speed in check!
- Take it easy! It's the first day back; take it easy to avoid injuries. Focus on enjoying the experience rather than pushing your limits.
Happy Opening Day!
Share this with your crew and make sure everyone's dialed in for their first day on the mountain.
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