The FIS Freeride World Tour (FWT), sponsored by Peak Performance, which was due to return to Georgia over the coming week for a decisive third stop of the 2026 season has now been cancelled.

In a statement, the FWT organisers said,

"Due to unstable snowpack conditions, the Georgia Pro — the third stop of the Freeride World Tour season — has been cancelled. After thorough evaluation by our safety teams and local experts, conditions did not meet the standards required to ensure athlete safety. While this was a difficult decision, safety and fair competition remain our top priorities. We are currently assessing the possibility of rescheduling the competition during the Fieberbrunn Pro weather window and will share updates soon."

After two spectacular stops in the Spanish Pyrenees and the French Alps, the world’s best freeriders had set their sights on a new playground at the Georgia Pro, which was back on the tour calendar for its third year. With the Cut fast approaching, riders were due to face a pivotal battle in the Caucasus Mountains.

Nestled in the Svaneti region at the Tetnuldi resort, the event has delivered memorable performances over the past two editions, thanks to consistent snow conditions, dramatic terrain, and the raw freeride potential that defines the Caucasus.

Prior to the cancellation decision, the weather window had been scheduled from February 22–28.

Current rankings: the battle for the Cut intensifies

In Ski Men, Ben Richards (NZL) leads the category with two victories and a commanding points advantage. The Kiwi has already secured his spot for the FWT Finals. He is followed by Ross Tester (USA) and Max Hitzig (GER), with just 80 points separating the two in a tight race for position.

In Ski Women, Agostina Vietti (ARG) tops the standings after her victory at the Val Thorens Pro and has already qualified for the Finals. Justine Dufour-Lapointe (CAN), winner of the season opener, sits in second place, followed by Sybille Blanjean (SUI), who claimed second at the last stop in Val Thorens.

Victor de Le Rue (FRA) leads the Snowboard Men category following his win at the previous event. The French rider has also secured his qualification for the FWT Finals. Liam Rivera (SUI) and Enzo Nilo (FRA) complete the current top three.

In Snowboard Women, Mia Jones (USA) leads the standings after a win and a third-place finish this season. She is followed by two French riders: Anna Martinez, who secured back-to-back second-place finishes in the first two events, and Noémie Equy, winner in Val Thorens.

JAPAN REPORT

Honshu’s major resorts are in good mid-winter shape, with regular snowfall continuing to refresh pistes across Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen and Myoko. Snow depths remain healthy on upper slopes, supported by consistently cold temperatures that are keeping the surface dry and grippy. Myoko’s Seki Onsen (300/600cm / 120/240”) continues to post the world’s deepest base. Lower areas have seen more variable conditions at times, but recent top-ups have improved coverage and maintained reliable piste skiing.

Winds have been moderate, with occasional lift impacts during passing fronts, but overall terrain remains widely open. Northerly Hokkaido is enjoying classic conditions, with Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu and Kiroro all reporting deep bases, everything open and frequent light-to-moderate snowfall. Temperatures remain firmly below freezing, preserving powder quality and keeping off-piste zones in excellent shape. Snowfall has been steady rather than extreme, but regular daily top-ups continue to deliver soft, dry turns across the island. Visibility varies with passing snow bands, though calmer, brighter spells are appearing between systems.

JAPAN FORECAST

Temperatures at Honshu’s ski regions stay firmly below freezing all week, with summit temperatures in Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen and Zao Onsen ranging from around –8°C to –17°C, and mid-mountain levels mostly between –4°C and –10°C. A mix of cloud, light to moderate snow showers, and occasional clearer spells is forecast.

Up on Hokkaido, it remains even colder, with ski areas showing summit temperatures between –12°C and –20°C. Light, frequent snow showers continue through the week, accumulating steadily thanks to consistently sub-zero conditions. Visibility will vary with passing fronts.

NORTH AMERICA INTRO

There finally appears to be a marked change in Western North America with the colder temperatures we've been waiting for all winter starting to move in (ironically, just over a week before meteorological springtime begins), along with heavy snowfall, particularly for California. However, the Pacific Northwest and the Northern Rockies are due for a decent dump, too. This snowfall is already underway, shutting down ski resorts in California and the wider region on Tuesday, and is set to continue through the week, with the luckiest resorts likely to see over 4 feet (1.2m) of storm total.

On the East Coast, the excellent ski season continues. It keeps snowing, though not as heavily, and temperatures remain below freezing, though not quite as bitter as they were previously, so that's generally a good thing.

North of the border, it remains top-notch in most areas. Coldest in the east now, where we saw -20s again on high terrain at the weekend, light snowfall too. Most significant snowfall is moving into western provinces now, too.

CANADA WEST REPORT

It's been one of the snowiest weeks of 2026 so far in Western Canada. Not that it has been that snowy, but multiple days of 5-15cm (2-6") snowfalls have led to snow totals of 25-50cm (10-20") over the past week, more than the low totals in January and earlier this month as the weather stayed largely dry. There have been sunny spells between the showers with temperatures mostly in the -5 to -15°C range. Most centres in Alberta and BC remain fully open. Whistler Blackcomb (20/212cm / 8/85") has been leading the way with 280 of its 305 slopes skiable at present.

CANADA WEST FORECAST

Remaining colder and unsettled week, with fresh snowfall expected across both Alberta and BC/resorts/A-J">British Columbia. Resorts in the Rockies, such as Lake Louise, Sunshine and Marmot Basin, will see temperatures between –18°C and –8°C, with 5–15cm (2-6”) of new snow likely. In BC, Whistler, Big White, Sun Peaks and Revelstoke can expect a mix of light snow and heavier pulses, with 10–25cm (4-10”) possible in higher alpine areas. Winds may strengthen during frontal passages, but overall the pattern favours regular top‑ups and continuing mid‑winter conditions across both provinces.

CANADA EAST REPORT

Temperatures dipped down to the -20s in Quebec under clear skies over the weekend. Since then, it has been warmer, more in the -5 to -15C range, with a mixture of sunny spells and light snowfall of 2-5cm (1-2 inches) over 24 hours, refreshing the hard-packed slopes. Ontario’s Blue Mountain (90/100cm / 36/40”) is posting the region’s deepest snow cover.

CANADA EAST FORECAST

Continuing sub-zero temperatures with a mix of light snow showers and sunny periods.  It currently does look like there may be a more significant 10-20cm (4-8") snowfall at the end of the week, which could deliver powder days at the weekend.

US WEST COAST REPORT

Things are looking up along America's Pacific Coast with some big snowfalls over the past 48 hours, and the snow is still dumping. After a few promising refreshes measuring in the inches at the end of last week, fresh accumulations over the past 36 hours have been in the feet (30cm+), and storm totals of 2-4 feet are expected by the end of the week. It's the best snowfall in California in six weeks and the second-best of the season. In the short term, though Mammoth Mountain and many other areas have shut down due to the worst of the storm, which includes strong winds, blowing through. Local powder fans are also hoping this is the start of the long-awaited change in the mild, dry conditions that have dominated the past three months. In further good news, temperatures have plummeted in Oregon and Washington state to the coldest of the season to date.

US WEST COAST FORECAST

Remaining unsettled pattern with Californian resorts expected to see more heavy snow showers, with 6–18 inches (15-45cm) possible at higher elevations through the weekend. Oregon and Washington State will see a similar setup, with Mt. Hood, Mt. Bachelor, Crystal Mountain and Stevens Pass likely receiving 8–20 inches (20-50cm), accompanied by colder temperatures and occasional strong winds during frontal passages. Further north, Alaska will turn stormier, with interior mountains expecting frequent snow bands and 10–24 inches (25-60cm) of accumulation, supported by consistently sub‑freezing temperatures.

US ROCKIES REPORT

t appears that winter is making an appearance in the Rockies at last, with snowfall in the north of the region last week adding 3-9" (7-23cm), but now a bigger storm is set to cover a wider region with the most snowfall of the season so far getting underway. Storm totals of up to two feet (60cm) are forecast by the end of the week, which should hopefully have the region looking like it should in winter for the first time this season.  Unfortunately, Colorado, again, looks like it won't see so much as further north, but hopefully there'll be at least 6-12" (15-30cm) here too after some very mild temperatures once again. For now, most ski areas in the Rockies remain 50-90% open with thin bases.

US ROCKIES FORECAST

Continuing colder, unsettled weather will bring 4–12 inches (10-30cm) of new snow to the northern Rockies and resorts in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming over the next few days. In Utah, the Wasatch will pick up 5–10 inches (12-20cm), with single‑digit °F summit temperatures and occasional wind, whilst in Colorado, the snowfall looks more modest again at 2–6 inches (5-15cm), but colder air returns, improving surface conditions across Summit County and the central mountains.

US MIDWEST REPORT

Conditions have been fairly dry in the Midwest over the past week, with the biggest snowfalls about 6" (15cm) reported in Michigan, but many areas haven't had any fresh snow. Instead, temperatures have been higher, if still only a little above freezing at times, rather than down in the -20s °F we saw a few weeks ago. Michigan's Mount Bohemia (80/80" / 200/200cm) continues to post the region's deepest cover, and all 105 trails are open.

US MIDWEST FORECAST

Continuing cold and unsettled for the rest of the week, with temperatures staying well below freezing across Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Upper‑hill temperatures will generally range from 5°F to 20°F, with colder nights dipping toward 0°F, helping to maintain the snowpack. Light snow showers are expected on several days, bringing small but steady top‑ups. A couple of weak systems may deliver slightly heavier bursts, though winds look moderate overall.

US EAST COAST REPORT

The epic winter continues on the East Coast with light snow showers, freezing temperatures and sunny spells as the main weather factors over the past week. There have not been the heavy falls of earlier in the winter, nor the bitingly cold below-zero-Fahrenheit temperatures, but slopes have seen an inch or two of fresh cover most days, and temperatures have been a pleasanter freezing down to 10 or 15 degrees below, keeping the snowpack in good shape.  Most areas remain fully open, including Stowe (26/48" / 65/120cm), which is posting the deepest snow in the Northeast.

US EAST COAST FORECAST

Cold, wintry weather should continue through the rest of this week and the weekend, with conditions staying favourable across Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Temperatures will sit well below freezing in the mountains, with colder nights helping to preserve the snowpack. Light snow showers are expected on several days, bringing small but regular top‑ups, especially in northern areas such as Stowe, Jay Peak, Sugarloaf and Sunday River. Brighter spells will continue to break through between systems, and winds are expected to be moderate overall.

EUROPE INTRO

It’s been quite a week in the Western Alps with some huge snowfalls, now approaching 3 metres (10 feet) in total over the last seven days on some higher French slopes. That's led to some dramatic events, including the avalanche danger level reaching a rare maximum 5 out of 5 in the Tarentaise Valley and several resorts, including La Plagne, completely shutting down their slopes last Thursday.

The snowfall continued into western Switzerland and Italy, spreading across much of mainland Europe to a lesser degree, with lighter but still welcome snowfall. However, the Western Alps topped their snowfall total this week (unusually for the 25-26 season). The Pyrenees saw still more heavy snowfalls, and bases there are, in many cases, a little greater than those in the Alps, after their more consistent wintry weather all season. Strong winds were a factor here at the end of last week, leading to temporary resort closures again.

Elsewhere, Scottish centres continue their best season in years, with all five centres open and most of them reporting 60-80% of their terrain skiable. Scandinavia is still bitterly cold and a little short on fresh snow, but mostly good. The same (if not so cold) is true across eastern Europe's ski slopes.

Europe Forecast
Subzero temperatures remain dominant across the Western Alps with further light to moderate snowfall expected midweek, particularly in western-facing regions. Clearer, colder spells are likely toward the weekend as freezing levels fall again.

AUSTRIA REPORT

After missing out on the big snowfalls further west in the latter half of last week, and indeed not seeing much snowfall at all so far this year, it has turned much more wintery with regular moderate snowfall on Austrian slopes since the weekend, with ski areas reporting 10-20cm (4-8") daily top-ups.

Temperatures have dropped a few degrees, too, with base-level highs around +3C and lows around -10. With lots of cloud, visibility has dropped, but slope conditions have improved with the fresh snow. The Arlberg region (55/150cm / 22/60”) continues to post the most terrain open in the country, about 80% of its slopes.

Austria Forecast
Temperatures in many Alpine valleys will hover around 0°C to –3°C, while higher ski areas trend well below freezing. Light snow is possible midweek, especially in western resorts such as Lech, St. Anton and Ischgl, with brighter, colder periods toward the weekend.

FRANCE REPORT

The huge snowstorm that was getting underway as we published last week's report blew through by Friday afternoon, leaving glorious blue skies. That was not through until reports of 72 hour snowfall totals of up to 2.6m (nearly 9 feet) had come in for the Chamonix Valley (50/300cm / 20/120”) and Paradiski (100/270cm / 40/108”), with plenty of other areas posting 1-2m (40-80") three-day totals.

Last Thursday saw the most intense snowfall along with high winds that saw many resorts close most of their slopes, and in La Plagne’s case, all of them, as the avalanche danger reached a rare maximum 5 out of 5 on the scale in the Tarentaise Valley and wider area.

France Forecast
The cold, snowy pattern continues with further fresh accumulations and summit temperatures between –9°C and –16°C. Heavier snowfall is expected at higher elevations, followed by lighter showers and improving visibility.

ITALY REPORT

Western Italian ski areas have seen the heaviest snowfall of the season, catching the front that moved through the western Alps at the end of last week and then seeing fresh heavy snowfalls at the start of this. Further east, things have been a little drier, and there have been prolonged sunny spells for some, but there has been some fresh snowfall for most areas across the country.

With the snow in the west, base depths are reaching a very healthy 3m (10 feet), enough to see out the season. Artesina - Mondolè Ski (200/300 cm / 80/120cm) is posting the deepest cover at the time of writing.

Italy Forecast
The Italian Alps should stay cold with summit temperatures generally ranging from –8°C to –15°C. Further light to moderate snowfall is expected, especially in the Dolomites and western Alpine regions.

SWITZERLAND REPORT

It has been the snowiest week of the season to date in Switzerland. There was snowfall across the country, but the west in particular saw some huge accumulations, led by Montana/6day/mid">Crans Montana (65/130cm / 16/52"), which posted a 1.2m (4 feet) snowfall tally over 72 hours. Champéry (130/180cm / 52/72”), on the Swiss side of the Portes du Soleil, posted 95cm (38”) in the same period.

Many parts of the country were dry and sunny through the weekend, although the avalanche danger remained high. Since Monday, it's been much more changeable with snowfall totals varying from 2-25cm (2-10") a day.

Switzerland Forecast
Subzero temperatures continue with summit levels generally ranging from –8°C to –16°C. Light to moderate snowfall is expected midweek, particularly in the Valais and Graubünden.

PYRENEES REPORT

It is unclear if the Pyrenees are wishing the snowfall would stop now. It keeps snowing, moderately to heavily, with many areas seeing another metre (40") or more over the last week. More ski areas now have bases of more than 3 metres (10 feet).

The constant snowfall is keeping avalanche danger levels high and leading to slope closures. Last week's storm saw several resorts, including Spain's largest Baqueira Beret (190/200cm / 76/80"), completely close on Thursday due to 100kph winds. That said, there have been some great sunshine days between the storms.

Pyrenees Forecast
Remaining mixed with cold temperatures, regular snow showers and occasional brighter spells. Summit temperatures between –10°C and –3°C, with 5–15cm (2-6”) top ups likely on higher terrain.

SCANDINAVIA REPORT

It's remained very cold, dry and sunny across Scandinavian ski areas for the past week. Temperatures have mostly been in the -10 to -20C range, but further north the mercury continues to dip well into the minus 20s.

Most ski areas are close to full operations, albeit with hard-packed piste now and little or no powder to be found. There's been little change in base depths since last year, with Sweden's Tänndalen (70/135cm / 28/54”) posting the region’s deepest.

Scandinavia Forecast
Very cold, classically wintry weather continues with nighttime lows between –20°C and –30°C in northern areas. Light to moderate snow showers are expected at intervals.

EASTERN EUROPEAN REPORT

Following last week's snowfalls, it's been a mostly dry week across eastern Europe. Temperatures have stayed largely below freezing in the northern mountains, in the -2 to -15C range, but have warmed up in the Balkans, in the -8 to +7°C range.

Bansko (20/1590cm / 8/60”) has the deepest reported base in the region and the most terrain open – 100% of its slopes.

Eastern Europe Forecast
Predominantly cold with a mix of light snowfall and brighter spells. Light snow showers forecast intermittently, especially in Bulgaria and Slovakia.

SCOTLAND REPORT

There have been some fabulous blue sky, still days on Scottish mountains over the past seven days, following weeks of gales and overcast skies as snow showers moved through.

All five Highland ski centres remain open, although Nevis Range appears to be operating on a more flexible schedule, opening on some days but not others. The other four areas are typically reporting between 60-80% of their slopes open and lift operating.

Scotland Forecast
Cold, changeable week with summit temperatures from –8°C to –2°C. Light snow showers expected on several days with brighter spells between fronts.

Most ski areas in the Western USA have been enduring one of their worst ever ski seasons with dry, mild weather since last November making the regions famous deep powder very hard to find and leaving many struggling to open much terrain at all. In fact a number of smaller, lower centres have been forced to close for lack of snow whilst the big names battle on, thanks to snowmaking when they can.

Since late January though long term forecasts had projected a return to something more normal by mid-February and now with a series of major storms lining up from the Pacific, its hoped that change is finally here.

Many ski areas including Mammoth Mountain and Palisades Tahoe, were closed on Tuesday as the storm blew in, with violent gales as well as very heavy snowfall, projected to deposit up to 4 feet (1.2m) over the next few days. Initial numbers are just starting to come in but Boreal Mountain and Soda Springs have both posted over three feet (90cm) from the first 36 hours of the storm.

Heavenly was open though, posting, "If you're joining us, remember to ski and ride with a buddy, obey signage, avoid tree wells, and be safe. Oh, and have fun. You aren't going to want to miss the next couple of days."

Many Californian ski areas were already close to full operations already as the state did see one previous big snowfall in late December/early January, unlike most other regions.

The snowy conditions are not expected to be limited to California however, the Pacific Northwest corner of the country and Northern Rockies are also expecting several feet of snowfall initially with hopefully a more lasting change in the weather here too with less than two months of the season left to run for some areas.

So far though the forecasts for parts of Colorado are less enthusiastic with snow-starved Vail only expected to get about 9" (20cm) by the weekend.

Brazil celebrated a landmark moment at the Winter Olympics today as Lucas Pinheiro Braathen stormed to gold in the Giant Slalom at Bormio, the nation’s first medal at the Winter Games.

The first to tackle the Olympic run on the Stelvio slope, Braathen initially had little sense of how competitive his opening run had been. That changed quickly as racer after racer crossed the line well adrift, many more than two seconds back. Only a handful, including Swiss star and defending Olympic champion Marco Odermatt, came within touching distance, though even he finished nearly a second slower.

Armed with a commanding advantage and facing a course that continued to break down, Braathen, the final skier of the top-30 to race in the second run, kept his composure to secure victory by more than half a second.

His triumph is thought to be not only Brazil’s first in Alpine skiing but the first Winter Olympic medal ever claimed by any South American nation. Until now, despite the Andes’ prominence, South America, Africa and Antarctica remained the only continents without a Winter Games podium.

Brazil does not have any ski areas and on the rare occasions its Highlands do see snowfall it's a major tourist attraction.

The country does though, have many skiers, who ski in Argentina and Chile as well as on ski slopes around the world.

The country also has an indoor snow centre, Snowland, pictured above, with a second under construction. It also has a growing number of centres with ski machines for training and recreation, including the recently opened Born to Ski, (below) located in Vila Olímpia in the district of Itaim Bibi in São Paulo, which operates two SkiMachines imported from SkiMachine in The Netherlands. Its popularity has been such it is reported to have been fully booked for its first six months of operations.

Embrace the full depth of Whistler’s winter magic with an incredible trip worth $14,000 to be won.

The lucky winner and partner will get return flights from a major city airport to Vancouver, transfers to Whistler and six luxurious nights stay in a one-bedroom Mountain View suite at the Sundial Hotel, steps from the gondola.

Once there you’ll both gear up in style with premium ski or snowboard rentals to discover Whistler Blackcomb’s vast alpine arena and experience 8,171 acres of terrain with 3-day Whistler Blackcomb lift tickets

Activities on your prize holiday agenda include the chance to snowshoe through the alpine and unwind in a rustic sauna, step into a magical forest with the immersive Vallea Lumina and take the plunge with a thrilling bungee jump.

You’ll also sip and savour with a custom cocktail experience and dinner at The Raven Room, say “Cheers” to good times with a Happy Hour experience at Earls Kitchen + Bar, feast on local flavours with dinner and drinks at Hunter Gather Eatery & Taphouse and indulge in fine dining with a culinary experience at Alta Bistro.

This is your chance to dare, discover and go deeper in Whistler.  You can enter by clicking on the competition pictures below and read more detail on the prize at the end of our article below on why Whistler’s abundant snowfall and phenomenal terrain work together so well. You'll win incredible skiing and riding, savour unforgettable dining, dive into thrilling adventures and explore every layer of what makes Whistler extraordinary.

Big Storms, Bigger Terrain - How Whistler Makes the Most of Pacific Snow

Whistler Blackcomb didn’t become North America’s largest ski area by chance. Well, unless you consider its perfect positioning in the sweet spot for abundant snowfall, as well as its skier-friendly terrain, to be chance.

The resort’s entire identity and its incredible success are shaped by the Pacific storm track: huge, moisture‑rich systems roll straight off the ocean, drop metres of snow, and transform its vast terrain into something few resorts can match.

Meteorologically speaking, Whistler sits directly in the path of the Aleutian Low, which funnels warm, wet air toward the BC coast. As storms hit the Coast Mountains where the resort is located, they rise rapidly, cool, and dump huge volumes of snow. 

These storms are frequent, and Whistler averages 80–84 snowfall days per season. That adds up to seasonal snowfall averages typically between 11 and 16 metres (36 to 49 feet), some of the most impressive stats not just in North America but in the whole world. Even low snow years still exceed 6–7 metres (20-23 feet). The official average is 11 metres (36 feet or 429 inches) per season. 

In other words, the Pacific doesn’t send Whistler occasional storms; it sends production lines of them! And each storm can be huge, with single multi-day storm totals of 65-75 cm (25–29 inches) often recorded in midwinter. These storm cycles are all part of Whistler culture; locals track incoming systems like surfers track swells. 

A Classic Maritime Snowpack

Whistler’s location, directly exposed to Pacific moisture, typically delivers maritime snow, denser, more cohesive and all around more stable than the lighter snow of the Rockies. 

This density is a big bonus for opening steep terrain. The snow sticks to steep faces in a way that the lighter stuff can’t, which allows Whistler Blackcomb to open terrain that would be unskiable with similar volumes of snow in a drier climate.

Pay close attention to snow reports, and you’ll often see this reality, with some centres famed for their steep and deep terrain actually spending a lot of the season with not much of that skiable, when Whistler Blackcomb has most of its black diamond terrain open.

That definitely doesn’t mean Whistler Blackcomb doesn’t get more than its fair share of cold, dry powder, especially up in the alpine. The same storm can (and usually does) deliver different snow types at different levels.

But whatever the gradient of the slope, Whistler Blackcomb’s maritime snow builds deep bases quickly, protecting the resort’s huge vertical from early‑season hazards. 

Big Terrain Made Accessible By Big Storms

Whistler Blackcomb’s terrain is uniquely suited to heavy Pacific snowfall. The resort’s high-Alpine Bowls are wide, open, wind‑loaded. The likes of Glacier Bowl, Harmony and Seventh Heaven fill in quickly during storms. Maritime snow bonds well to steep alpine faces, enabling iconic terrain like Spanky’s Ladder to open.

The resort’s two‑mountain layout (Whistler and Blackcomb mountains) lets skiers chase the best conditions as storms move through. Whistler Blackcomb’s vast vertical (from 650 m to 2,284 m) means snow types vary from the valley to the glacier-capped alpine up high, again delivering a huge choice and epic descents.

Whistler is famous for storm skiing, staying skiable even in heavy weather, thanks to its vast array of terrain options, including sheltered aspects, trees, and a carefully considered lift layout.

The mid‑mountain tree-skiing zone gets consistent, dense snow that clings to branches and fills gullies. Indeed, storm days are often best spent in the trees where visibility is better, and the snow stacks up fast.

Locals know how to work the mountain as storms roll through, usually starting in the trees, then moving to the alpine as the storm clears and finishing with late‑day refills as wind transports snow.

When’s Snowiest?

Whistler Blackcomb has one of North America's and the world’s longest ski seasons, running from November through to late May. Most years, maritime snow builds a thick, resilient base early in the season. 

December and January are peak snowfall months, each averaging around 178-188 cm (70–74) inches of snowfall. But snowfall data shows that March is a ‘sleeper month’, often delivering over 150cm (60 inches).

Average base depths in midwinter are 160-210 cm (63–83 inches) in January–February at mid‑mountain and climb to 256-372 cm (101–148 inches) in March. That’s usually the deep point of the season, even though there are still two months left to run, whilst other resorts are calling it a day on winter.

This depth allows Whistler Blackcomb to open and maintain its massive 8,171-acre footprint, even in variable years. Whistler’s bowls, chutes, and glades aren’t just enhanced by heavy snow; they depend on it.

In conclusion, Whistler Blackcomb thrives because the Pacific delivers relentless, snow‑laden storms that build one of the deepest, most reliable maritime snowpacks on the planet. This consistency unlocks its vast bowls, steep alpine faces and sheltered tree zones, keeping terrain open and skiable for an exceptionally long season. Big storms, heavy snow and big mountains combine to define Whistler’s unmatched winter experience.

Dare to Go Deeper and Win a Winter Trip for Two to Whistler, Canada, Worth $14,000

Go beyond the ordinary and embrace the full depth of Whistler’s winter magic. Stay six nights in luxury accommodation at the base of Whistler Mountain, steps from the gondola. Discover vast alpine terrain, savour unforgettable dining, dive into thrilling adventures and explore every layer of what makes Whistler extraordinary. This is your chance to dare, discover and go deeper in Whistler.

The Grand Prize Includes:

Transportation & Accommodation

• Round-trip flights from a major city airport to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
• Round-trip shuttle transfers between Vancouver International Airport and Whistler courtesy of Whistler Shuttle.
• Six luxurious nights in a one-bedroom Mountain View suite at the Sundial Hotel

Winter Activities

• Experience 8,171 acres of terrain with 3-day Whistler Blackcomb lift tickets
• Gear up in style with premium ski or snowboard rentals courtesy of Black Tie Ski Rentals.
• Snowshoe through the alpine and unwind in a rustic sauna with Canadian Wilderness Adventures.
• Step into a magical forest with the immersive Vallea Lumina experience by The Adventure Group, courtesy of Gibbons Whistler.
• Take the plunge with a thrilling bungee jump courtesy of Whistler Bungee.

Dining

• Sip and savour with a custom cocktail experience and dinner at The Raven Room
• Cheers to good times with a Happy Hour experience at Earls Kitchen + Bar
• Feast on local flavours with dinner and drinks at Hunter Gather Eatery & Taphouse
• Indulge in fine dining with a culinary experience at Alta Bistro

By Aaron Rolph 

The ridge narrows to a snowy corniced knife-edge. Beyond it, the valley plummets into cloud - a white abyss we’ve come halfway around the world to ski. Usually, it’s good practice, or at least reassuring, to climb the line you plan to ski beforehand. On this occasion, however, in a bid to minimise time spent in the Russian-occupied Republic of Chechnya, we’ve chosen to approach from the Georgian side; after all, as a Brit, a Slovenian and an American, we have no business being on Russian soil.

A few weeks earlier, the idea had started to take shape. Joining forces again with Bine Zalohar and Tom Grant, the Georgian Caucasus had been calling our names for a while. Together, we’re a strong and motivated crew, but with an easy-going approach and crucially, a great sense of humour. The western side, around Mestia and the better-known ski areas, has had its fair share of foreign visitors over the years, but the eastern end of the range remained a bit of a mystery: big mountains, few trails, and very little information about any previous ski forays. Exactly the kind of place that rewards curiosity, or punishes optimism.

Through some determined trawling (mostly by Bine, who has the patience for that sort of thing), we discovered that Tebulosmta - Chechnya’s highest peak had, as far as anyone could tell, never been skied. Moreover, this 4,493-metre giant boasted a snow-covered north face that looked irresistibly skiable. The plan was simple enough: a last-minute spring trip with conditions apparently excellent after a big winter: go there, ski it, and hopefully stay out of the Russian gulags.

Getting there, of course, was the first hurdle. The tiny hamlet of Khone, our last outpost of civilisation, was cut off for all of winter and much of spring. Speaking with locals beforehand, we’d learned that the Datvisjvari Pass (2,689 m) usually didn’t clear until mid-May. That left us a slim window - late enough to get in, but early enough to still have a chance at a well-covered snowy face.When we arrived in the small mountain villages at the foot of the pass, we were met with that famous Georgian hospitality: warm guesthouses, vast meals, and toasts flowing as freely as the chacha. We spent a few days exploring the Chaukhi Mountains, getting our ski legs back while the road crews continued clearing snow and debris. From 50 kilometres away, Tebulosmta looked magnificent through binoculars - still white, still loaded. A local villager who happened to be the one clearing the road assured us, with typical Georgian optimism, that we’d be able to get through “in a few days.”

Sure enough, a few days later, we got the go-ahead and loaded up our trusty 1990s Toyota Sequoia. The “cleared” road turned out to be a loose description for a single-lane dirt track peppered with fresh rockfall and the leftovers of some truly colossal avalanches. We bounced our way deep into the valley until the inevitable happened: one of the tyres blew. From there, we continued on foot and, thanks to our host, by horse the rest of the way.

Khone itself felt like a step back in time: self-sufficient farms, wood smoke in the air, and locals who looked understandably baffled by the sight of skis. Our hosts worried aloud for our safety, a concern echoed by a Georgian army captain at the border. Despite our permits being in good order, he insisted on verifying our story over a long, half-English WhatsApp call before finally giving us the nod.

From there, the real work began. We hauled impossibly heavy packs up 2,300 metres toward the Georgian-Russian border ridge, each step a small victory in deep spring snow. Of course, we’d carry tents, a warm sleeping bag, all our mountaineering kit, and, crucially, enough gas and food for a week should we need to hunker down. When we finally reached the ridge and pitched our tent directly on the frontier, exhaustion gave way to quiet awe. Tebulosmta stood before us... austere, immense, and beautifully intimidating.

Unfortunately, our dream line - that pristine north face had been stripped bare by wind, revealing gleaming sheets of glacial ice. Just as we were questioning our life choices, we spotted a slender, serpentine couloir threading between rock and ice. It wasn’t the line we’d come for, but it looked good enough to justify the journey. Technically, it sat on the Chechen side, but standing there on that lonely ridge, it felt like no one’s land at all.After waiting out another burst of wind, we set off in the early morning, bootpacking up the mountain’s East flank. The 45-degree snow was firm but stable, perfect climbing conditions.

And here we are, late morning and on the summit of Tebulosmta, 4,493 metres. The horizon ripples into Russia, Georgia, and beyond, a panorama of everything and nothing. We’re slightly stunned that the ascent has gone so smoothly; honestly, part of me had expected more drama, but we were far from out of it yet.

Crossing a precarious knife-edge ridge to reach our chosen line, we decide to downclimb a short section rather than attempt a blind ski start on ice. Finally, we clip our skis on and drop in. The line flows beautifully, weaving between ribbons of blue ice, each turn bleeding tension from the past few days. It’s not deep powder, but it’s grippy, fast, and unmistakably ours - the first descent of a mountain few have even heard of.

At the bottom, we find lynx tracks, the only sign of life and follow them back up toward Georgia. By the time we descend to Khone, the few villagers greet us with a feast and wide-eyed disbelief. It seems no one had ever seen skis here before, so you can understand their palpable relief at our return.

A few days later, back in Tbilisi for Georgian Independence Day, tanks roll through Liberty Square - a far cry from the silence of the border ridge. In less than two weeks, we’d gone from chaos to calm and back again - a short, unlikely adventure to a forgotten corner of the Caucasus.

For me, that’s the essence of it all: a wonderful mix of uncertainty, a good slog, and the joy of carving a new line somewhere nobody thought to look.

Edited by: Rhiannon James

Words & Photography by: Aaron Rolph

Featuring: Bine Zalohar & Tom Grant

Setup: Faction Agent 3.0 with ATK Kuluar binding & HEAD Kore 99 with FR15

Europe Snow Report and Ski Conditions

Some big snowfalls for parts of Europe this week – particularly in western and southerly mountain ranges, with more to come across a wider area.

Again, it has been the Southwestern corner of the continent, particularly the Spanish range, the Pyrenees, the western borders of Italy and the southern French Alps that have scored some of the biggest accumulations, as has been the case for much of this winter to date.

However, the snowfall in France moved to more northerly centres too, with resorts like La Clusaz and La Plagne that hadn't seen much snowfall from these southerly fronts previously both picking up over half a metre (20"+). Of greater note still, though, were the snowfalls over on the other side of Italy, on the border with Slovenia and Southeastern Austria, where accumulations of up to 1.5m (five feet) were reported. The Olympic venues on both sides have also been in good condition, thanks to recent snowfall. Further north, very cold temperatures have been reported again in Scandinavia, whilst all five Scottish centres are open, weather permitting, for the first time since 2024 after Nevis Range opened for its season last weekend.

Austria Snow Report and Ski Conditions

It has been a predominantly sunny week across the Austrian mountains, with just an occasional snowfall bubbling up and delivering a few centimetres (an inch) of snow. Temperatures have risen, so we're seeing up to +5°C in the daytime at mountain bases and overnight lows only down to around -5°C up high. Not well into double digits below, as was the case for much of January.

Most of Austria's resorts are at 80-100% open, although bases remain well below seasonal averages in most cases. The Arlberg (50/150cm / 20/60"), incorporating the slopes of Lech and St Anton, has the most terrain open with 240km (150 miles), about 80% of its full area. The Skiwelt (65/95cm / 26/34"), incorporating Ellmau, Westendorf, Soll and others and Saalbach Hinterglemm (70/105cm / 28/42") each have just a few kilometres/miles less open.

Austria Snow Forecast
This week has brought generally cold, changeable conditions across Austrian ski resorts, with mountain temperatures often between –12 °C and –1 °C, and milder valleys hovering between -3 °C and 8 °C. That’s set to continue with a mix of clear spells and frequent cloud, with light snow showers building into the weekend, particularly at higher elevations. Winds remain moderate on exposed ridges, occasionally freshening, especially in the central and western Alps. Accumulations of a few centimetres initially, followed by 10-20cm (4-8") falls over the weekend.

France Snow Report and Ski Conditions

Snowy conditions continue across the French Alps with hopes of much more on the way. Some resorts saw 20-60cm (8-24”) accumulations in the latter half of last week before a return of dry, sunny weather at the start of this. However, it is now starting to snow again with resorts posting 10-20cm (4-8”) falls on Tuesday and a more intense period of snowfall expected in the latter half of this week. La Plagne (50/190cm / 20/76"), for example, saw 43cm (17") of snowfall at the end of last week, but at the time of writing, it expects over a metre (40") through the latter half of this week.

That said, there are fears of rain and sleet at high altitudes initially. As we are now into the first week of the busy French school holiday period, that's good news for snow cover and open terrain, with most resorts at or close to maximum operations.

The deeper cover means resorts have been able to open more of their steeper terrain, too, usually the last to be added, with a greater amount of snow build-up needed. The snowfall has also kept avalanche danger levels high, typically at 3-4.

France Snow Forecast
Continuing a cold, unsettled week, with upper mountain temperatures frequently between –15 °C and –6 °C and lower slopes hovering from –5 °C to 9 °C with increasingly heavy snowfall. Accumulations are currently forecast to get increasingly heavy with some resorts seeing 20-40cm (8-16”) daily totals and potentially 1m+ (40”+) totals by the weekend. We are talking about very intense, disruptive, and very high avalanche danger-type snowfall. Winds strengthen during passing fronts, freshening on exposed ridges with the potential to occasionally affect some lift operations.

Italy Snow Report and Ski Conditions

Heavy snowfall shifted to Italy’s far northeast and the end of last week as the same storm cycle that hammered parts of southwestern Europe swept across the lower half of the continent. Sella Nevea (105/225cm / 42/90”), close to the Slovenian border with skiing over it to neighbouring Kanin, recorded an impressive 1.4 metres (56”) of snow in just 72 hours, while nearby Tarvisio (40/140cm / 16/56”) collected 105 cm (42”) heading into the weekend.

The rapid accumulation raised the avalanche risk to Level 4 (very high), with authorities warning of a high likelihood of natural slides. Tragically, a snowboarder lost their life in an off piste incident near Tarvisio during the unstable conditions. Although these were the standout totals, fresh snow reached much of Italy as Olympic fever swept the country, with most centres picking up 20-50cm (8-20”) of fresh cover.

Italy Snow Forecast
A cold, mostly unsettled week is expected across Italian ski resorts, with upper mountain temperatures frequently between about –12 °C and –2 °C and valley levels ranging from roughly –7 °C to 7 °C. Cloud will increase for the latter half of this week as weak fronts move through, delivering light to moderate snowfall, generally a few centimetres (an inch) at altitude, with the Dolomites and high South Tyrol resorts seeing the most consistent top ups. However, along the country's Northwestern border, much heavier snowfall, in the 50-100cm (20-40") bracket, is expected by the weekend. Winds remain moderate, occasionally freshening on exposed ridges as systems pass.

Switzerland Snow Report and Ski Conditions

There was some snowfall in the south and west of Switzerland up to last weekend, but most parts of the country have been dry and sunny since the start of the week, although that's set to change for the latter half.

Temperatures have been slightly warmer, still getting down to -12C up at 3,000m, but otherwise the freezing point is moving between 700 and 1,700 m.

Most of the big Swiss areas like the 4 Valleys, Portes du Soleil and Matterhorn glacier Paradise are at 80-90% open, but some centres further east like the Jungfrau, Laax (5/55cm / 2/22”) and Arosa – Lenzerheide (45/50cm / 18/20”) are down at nearer 60% due to drier weather for much of the winter for them. Glacier 3000 (185/490cm / 74/196”) near Gstaad continues to post the deepest snow in the world, outside Japan.

Switzerland Snow Forecast
Cold and unsettled for the rest of the week, with frequent snow showers, some very heavy in the south and west and upper mountain temperatures commonly between about –15 °C and –4 °C and lower slopes ranging from roughly –7 °C to 7 °C. Cloud thickens as weak fronts move through, delivering light to moderate snowfall across many regions, especially at higher elevations. Snow quality stays dry on the upper mountain, while lower areas fluctuate closer to freezing. Winds remain moderate, occasionally freshening on exposed ridges as systems pass, though widespread disruption looks limited.

Pyrenees Snow Report and Ski Conditions

French media have reported that snowfall in some parts of the Pyrenees has been the most in 30 years. They're particularly focused on the resort of Les Angles in the Pyreenees Orientals region, which has seen the heaviest falls, up to a metre in 48 hours. But the whole mountain chain is enjoying a very snowy winter, with the most consistent falls through the first half of the season, including over the past week. Base depths are now passing the 3 metre (10 feet) mark with no real sign of a let-up in the continuing snowfall. It's not just the Pyrenees; the whole Iberian peninsula is still snowy, with Portugal's Serra da Estrela closed at the start of the week whilst they dug out.

Pyrenees Snow Forecast
The cold, unsettled pattern continues in the Pyrenees this week, with continuing moderate snowfall (typically 10-20cm / 4-8” per day) and upper mountain temperatures frequently ranging from about –17 °C to –2 °C and base levels fluctuating between roughly –5 °C and 10 °C. Conditions remain cold at altitude, producing dry, chalky snow, while lower slopes can turn milder at times. Winds remain generally moderate, occasionally freshening on exposed ridges as fronts pass.

Scandinavia Snow Report and Ski Conditions

It has been a dry week at most Scandinavian ski areas, with low temperatures remaining a major factor in operations. Highs have been a few degrees below freezing at base level in most resorts, and lows have still been getting into the -20s, though a little warmer than they have been.

With clear skies, visibility has been good, and most centres are reporting 80-95% of their terrain open. For those who wrap up well and are prepared for a hard-packed surface, things are looking good. Norway's Gaustablikk (60/115cm / 24/46”) is posting the region’s deepest snow cover.

Scandinavia Snow Forecast
Another bitterly cold week gripping Scandinavian ranges, with upper mountain temperatures frequently plunging between about –38 °C and –14 °C, and bases often sitting from roughly –20 °C to –7 °C. Conditions stay predominantly dry, though occasional light snow flurries drift through, most noticeable in exposed Norwegian and Swedish resorts. The extreme cold keeps snow quality consistently dry and squeaky underfoot, while Finland’s Lapland remains the coldest zone by some margin. Winds stay mostly moderate but can freshen on higher ridges, sharpening the chill. Overall, it’s a brutally cold but largely stable week with only minor snowfall top ups.

Eastern Europe Snow Report and Ski Conditions

Conditions remain good for most Eastern European ski nations. The latter half of last week saw particularly heavy snowfall at the more southerly end, with Slovenian centres recording high totals. Bulgaria, too, is continuing its best spell of the winter so far, with regular snowfall top-ups allowing centres there to open ever more terrain.

After almost no snow lying at the start of January, almost all centres have over a metre (40") on upper slopes, with Bansko (20/150cm / 8/60") posting the deepest cover and 98% of its slopes open.

Eastern Europe Snow Forecast
A wintry, changeable week ahead unfolds across Eastern Europe’s mountains, with upper slope temperatures often between about –18 °C and –6 °C and lower areas ranging from roughly –8 °C to 6 °C. Light to moderate snowfall is forecast on several days, with Bulgaria’s higher Pirin and Rila resorts, plus parts of Slovakia and southern Poland, seeing the most frequent top ups of a few centimetres. Slovenia and Czechia stay colder and drier, though flurries still drift through mid week. Snow quality remains firm and dry at altitude, while lower slopes flirt with the freezing mark. Winds stay mostly moderate, occasionally freshening on exposed ridges.

Scotland Snow Report and Ski Conditions

All five Highland ski centres are open for the first time in two years, with Nevis Range opening its slopes at the weekend for the first time since 2024.
The centre thanked its team and local volunteers for getting its lifts and slopes back into usable condition. Otherwise, it's been the usual battle with the weather at all five centres, though with strong winds limiting operations at times, and The Lecht and Glenshee both inaccessible at times too, as authorities close the roads serving them whilst snow is cleared.

The weekend saw more than 40 lifts turning across the country and the better part of 100 runs open, the best stats in a long while. The start of the week has seen temperatures climb a little, though after six sub-zero weeks, centres are reporting "springlike" conditions with some losing cover to rainfall at the start of the week.

Scotland Snow Forecast
Continuing the usual changeable conditions across the Scottish Highlands, with summit temperatures generally between about –7 °C and –2 °C and lower levels ranging from roughly –3 °C to 5 °C. Frequent snow showers (sometimes rain or sleet at base levels) sweep in on brisk westerly and north westerly winds, bringing regular light to moderate top ups, often a few centimetres (an inch) at a time, occasionally more at Cairngorm, Glencoe and Nevis Range. Glenshee and The Lecht also see repeated flurries, though slightly lighter overall. Winds strengthen at times over exposed ridges, which may affect the amount of uplift.

North America Snow Report and Ski Conditions

After months of a fairly clean division between cold, snowy and generally wintery weather in Eastern North America and unusually warm, dry, springlike weather for much of the west, there are a few signs of change this week.

Most notably, several fronts have begun bringing fresh precipitation along the Pacific coast and are now moving into the Rockies. So far, it's been inches rather than feet, and it started as rain in some areas before temperatures dropped, but it's something after the recent dry weeks.

On the East Coast, it has remained full-on winter, and if anything, it got colder still, into the -30s. So, whilst there are reports of more centres closing for lack of snow in Oregon and Washington states in the west, in the east, closures of lifts are more for safety reasons, to prevent danger to skiers in the event of a mechanical failure.

Western Canada Snow Report and Ski Conditions

A fairly uneventful week in terms of snowfall in Western Canada, as has been the case most of this year following the record snowfall in December for much of Alberta and BC.

It's got a little colder again with most areas staying below freezing and overnight low up high around -10C, only mild on lower slopes on the Pacific Coast – again, a familiar pattern.

Most centres in the region remain fully open, with Revelstoke (42/98") posting the deepest cover. Further north, it's a different story, in some parts at least. The remote Yukon has seen temperatures as low as -40C this week, and in the Northwest Territories, there have been very heavy snowfalls of up to a foot a day.

Western Canada Snow Forecast
A continuing mix of light snow, cold temperatures and brighter spells across the major resorts. 

British Columbia’s interior sees intermittent flurries and steady sub zero highs, keeping surfaces dry and grippy. Along the coast, Whistler alternates between clearer breaks and occasional light snow at altitude.

In Alberta, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Marmot Basin remain very cold on the upper slopes, with mostly dry conditions and crisp, clear periods.

Eastern Canada Snow Report and Ski Conditions

It has been bitterly cold across Eastern Canada over the past week, with temperatures dropping even lower than they were before.

That means highs of around -15C, lows of -30C, but most of the time a -15 to -25C range, feeling colder with wind chill.

There were a few sunny days at the start of the week, but there's mostly been light snow showers through the week, adding 2-4" and giving the slopes a good refresh most days. For those who can brave the cold, most centres are fully open, or close to it. The region's largest centre, Tremblant (12/24"), is 100% open.

Eastern Canada Snow Forecast
Full winter remains locked in across Eastern Canada, with a mix of cold air, light snowfall, and brighter breaks across Québec and the Maritimes.

Resorts such as Mont Tremblant, Le Massif, Stoneham and Mont Sainte Anne see mainly sub zero temperatures, occasional flurries and steady packed powder conditions on the upper slopes. Further east, areas in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia experience colder nights and intermittent snow showers, helping maintain good coverage despite some wind exposed ridges.

US West Coast Snow Report and Ski Conditions

Some good news for the West: a change in the weather at last brings precipitation, increasingly wintery, over the past few days. Early on, the snow/rain line was up around 7,000 feet, but as colder air followed in, it has been increasingly snowy down to lower elevations, bringing a much-needed refresh to the slopes. In many areas, the snow is falling as we compile this report.

Hence, it's not yet clear quite how much it will add up to by the latter half of this week, but for many areas it's looking like the most for a month or so, if maybe not enough yet to really turn things around at some of the struggling centres in Oregon and Washington state.

So far, though Timberline has posted a 12" accumulation, Mt Bachelor has had 10".Ski Bluewood in Washington state and Mt Shasta in northern California are the latest in the region to announce temporary complete closures due to lack of snow, but hope to be able to reopen within a week.

US West Coast Snow Forecast
A continuing mix of new snowfall, mostly light, coupled with colder upper mountain temperatures and occasional clearer spells.

Resorts across Washington and Oregon are expected to pick up light to moderate snow at times, generally in the 2–6 inch range, with ridge top winds often 15–30 mph. California’s Sierra resorts see similar pulses, with higher peaks catching slightly stronger gusts, while colder nights preserve surface quality.

US Rockies Snow Report and Ski Conditions

There are finally signs of the hoped-for change in the weather for the latter half of the season after the challenging past three months. Fronts have started to move precipitation in, at least to the northern Rockies, with ski areas in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Utah posting, mostly modest snowfall totals over the past few days, generally in the 3-98” bracket. 

Jackson Hole (8/77”) posted a 10” snowfall on Tuesday. Not much, and not really reaching Colorado yet, but the mid- to long-term forecast isn't looking more unsettled, so could this be the change in fortune for the final few months of the season?

As it is, most centres in the region do have the majority of their terrain open, coupling what natural snowfall there has been with heroic snowmaking efforts.The region and country's largest, Utah's Park City (38/28"), continues to post more than 80% of its slopes open.

US Rockies Snow Forecast
A cold, unsettled week continues across the Rocky Mountains, with upper elevation temperatures often running between –8°F and 20°F, while base areas fluctuate from roughly 5°F to 45°F. Several weak systems move through mid to late week, delivering further light to moderate snowfall across Utah, Wyoming and Montana.

Most resorts can expect intermittent top ups of 1–4 inches, with the highest terrain seeing the most consistent accumulations. Winds remain moderate, occasionally strengthening on exposed ridges with gusts of 25–40 mph, which may affect lift operations at times.

US Midwest Snow Report and Ski Conditions

"Sun, snow and low" sums up conditions in the Midwest over the past week, with temperatures remaining below freezing 24-7 in most areas, if not as cold as further east, some prolonged sunny spells, but also some snow showers in the mix with measurable snow reported on ski slopes in most states in the region. 

Michigan’s Mount Bohemia (80/80”) is the first in the region to top a 6-foot base and reports all 105 of its trails open.

US Midwest Snow Forecast
Continuing cold but changeable across the US Midwest ski regions, with upper mountain temperatures generally running from about 5°F to 20°F and lower slopes fluctuating between roughly 15°F and 32°F.

Light snow moves through on several days, typically bringing 1–3 inches at a time, with northern Michigan and northern Wisconsin seeing the most consistent top ups. Resorts farther south stay more variable, with brief thaws possible before temperatures dip again. Winds remain moderate, occasionally gusting 20–30 mph on exposed hills, sharpening the chill but limiting major disruption.

US East Coast Snow Report and Ski Conditions

After a very cold January skiers in the Eastern US might have hoped thing would warm up a little this month, but instead its managed to get colder still, the numbers dropping even lower below zero Fahrenheit, down into the -20s and even -30s, leading to warnings of "dangerous cold" and ski area decision to close lifts with the most exposure danger to users.

Wind chill has been a bigger factor over the past week, too, with wind speeds strengthening at times. Otherwise, it has been largely clear and sunny, with just a few bands of snow moving through. Killington (20/32”) remains 98% open with the most skiable terrain in the region. Most others are close to fully open, too, but with the cold, everyone is advised to wrap up very warm.

US East Coast Snow Forecast
Finally, a bit warmer across the Appalachian Mountains, with upper mountain temperatures generally running from about 5°F to 20°F and lower slopes ranging from roughly 15°F to 35°F.

Several systems sweep through, bringing periods of light to moderate snowfall, often 1–4 inches at a time, with the higher resorts in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine seeing the most consistent accumulations. Mid Atlantic areas stay more variable, with snow giving way to brief mixed precipitation as temperatures flirt with freezing. Winds remain moderate, occasionally gusting 25–35 mph on exposed ridges, sharpening the chill.

Lake Louise Ski Resort has marked a major moment in its evolution with the official opening of Richardson’s Ridge, a brand-new zone designed to give families, beginners, and progressing skiers more room to explore. Although the terrain quietly opened to the public on 17 December, thanks to exceptional early‑season snowfall, the resort hosted its formal grand opening celebration this week, months ahead of the original timeline.

The event unfolded under classic January conditions: crisp air, freshly groomed pistes, and 7 cm of new snow overnight, all set beneath clear blue skies. Guests, partners, and community members gathered at the base for a morning of festivities, beginning with welcome remarks from CEO Rich Burkley and Vice President Kim Locke. At 10:00 a.m., Lake Louise owner Charlie Locke and Parks Canada CEO Ron Hallman cut the ribbon, officially launching the resort’s newest expansion. Attendees then took the inaugural chairlift ride to sample the new views and enjoy a relaxed group lap on the freshly prepared runs.

Celebrations continued at Sawyer’s Nook at Temple Lodge, where Burkley hosted a reception featuring speeches from senior resort leaders, Travel Alberta, Parks Canada, and Locke himself, along with a poem reading by Bill Keeling. Across the morning, speakers highlighted the long-term vision behind Richardson’s Ridge and the persistence required to bring the project to life.

The ceremony concluded with a special presentation: the 2025 Jimmie Spencer Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Charlie Locke by Canadian Ski Council President and CEO Paul Pinchbeck. The award recognises individuals who have made an enduring contribution to the ski industry, something Locke has done both at Lake Louise and across Canada.

Richardson’s Ridge adds roughly 200 acres of new ski terrain, increasing the resort’s total by nearly 15%. Served by the new Richardson’s Ridge Express high‑speed quad, the area features five green and blue runs, plus naturally gladed sections ideal for gentle exploration. Built with accessibility and progression in mind, the zone offers wide, confidence‑building slopes and quiet pockets of forest, perfect for families, first‑timers, and anyone looking to develop their skills in a scenic, low‑pressure environment.

The project has been 15 years in the making and represents another milestone in the resort’s Long Range Plan. It also builds on a period of significant investment that has included the Summit Quad, West Bowl, the Juniper Express learning area, expanded staff housing, and the new Pipestone Express heated bubble chair. Together, these upgrades have reshaped the guest experience, offering more terrain variety, improved flow, and reduced lift queues.

For visitors heading to Banff and Lake Louise this winter, Richardson’s Ridge is a standout new addition. It take's the region's total terrain to 7,700 acres across three resorts, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Banff Sunshine Village, and Mt. Norquay, all accessible in the single SkiBig3 lift ticket.

Japan Snow Report and Ski Conditions

An up and down week in Japan after the fairly non-stop snow deluge of the previous month.

Some clear, dry days allowed the snowpack to settle a bit, and the world's deepest at Seki Onsen (300/600cm / 120/240") near Myoko City dipped from its 630cm (252") to 550cm (220") at one point, although it has since recovered with snowfall returning.

Similarly, several of the areas that had reached 5m (200") dropped back below that stat, too. With these quantities of snow, perhaps it's a bit pedantic to fuss over 30cm (a foot) here and there; we're still talking deep powder and by far the greatest bases in the world.

Also, unlike most other leading ski nations, most leading Japanese centres report their slopes 100% open. Of the bigger resorts, Niseko (150/360cm / 60/144") is posting the deepest cover. It has been posting 10-20cm (4-8") top-ups most days since the weekend, temperatures mostly in the -5 to -15C range.

Japan Weather and Snow Forecast
A classic wintry week continues to unfold across Japan’s mountains, with consistently cold conditions and frequent snowfall. Upper mountain temperatures often sit between about –18 °C and –6 °C, while lower slopes range from roughly –8 °C to 3 °C.

Northern Honshu and Hokkaido see the most active weather, with repeated snow showers and periods of heavier snowfall delivering regular top ups in places, double digit centimetre totals across several days. Snow quality stays light and dry thanks to the persistent cold, especially in Hokkaido’s interior resorts.

Winds remain moderate, occasionally strengthening during passing fronts, but widespread disruption looks limited. Overall, it’s a snowy, wintry pattern ideal for maintaining deep cover across Japan’s major ski areas.

French TV is reporting that the snowfall in the region so far this season is now the greatest reported in 30 years.

Media is focussed particularly on the resort of Les Angles which reported a 1.2m snow in 48 hours at the start of this month and plenty more snowfall since. Whilst that is an extreme, the whole range has been reporting regular falls all winter, whilst much of the rest of Europe’s mountains have seen much less for most of that time.

Despite all the snowfall nearby Piau Engaly is reporting the region's deepest base at 3.5m (nearly 12 feet).

The continuing snowfall has led to ski areas in the Pyrenees posting some of the deepest snow depths in Europe and the wider world this month, with Andorra’s Ordino-Arcalis, which recently hosted the inaugural Freeride World Championships, passing the 3m/10 feet base mark in the past week.

In fact five of the six deepest snowpacks in Europe right now are reported to be in Andorra and the French and Spanish Pyrenees, with only the Swiss Glacier 3000 area near Gstaad reporting more.

After the Sapporo olympics of 1972, Japan invested wildly in ski resorts but a combination of economic stagnation, declining population and a strong currency took their toll and the bubble burst. Hundreds of ski resorts were subsequently abandoned and the majority that survived (still about 600) haven't generally made enough money to reinvest. Old lifts and tired buildings are still widespread at many resorts but those are the only negatives in a country where so much scores so highly.

The Japanese ski industry was down but not out, not least because of the unique meteorological setting that delivers the most reliable snowfalls anywhere in the world. Predictable Siberian winds collect moisture from the relatively warm Sea of Japan and dump mind-boggling snowfalls on the mountains that line the west of the country. It is not uncommon for snow to fall continuously for a week or two here. Anywhere else in the world would be hopelessly paralysed by the depth of accumulating snowfall, but the Japanese are cut from different cloth and somehow there is minimal disruption.

Legendary cold Hokkaido powder and a global trend towards fat-ski off-piste skiing and snowboarding meant that Niseko has long been on the radar of discerning Australians eager to escape scorching summer heat back home. Yet until 30 years ago the bigger mountains of Honshu were mostly overlooked by foreigners and their ski resorts were mostly frequented by weekend trippers from the big cities like Tokyo via an enviable network of fast trains.

In 1998, the Nagano Winter Olympics brought the Japan Alps of Honshu to the attention of international winter tourists leading to major investment in ski areas around Hakuba and at Nozawa Onsen.

The hulking massif of volcanic Mount Myoko lies in the same region and boasts 6 ski areas along its eastern flank with delightful Madarao and Tangram just 45 minutes away. All these are increasing in popularity as skiers and boarders seek cheaper and less crowded alternatives to Niseko. Wonderful places with something for every ability.

These all enjoy enviable snow records but just like the nearby Hakuba Valley, the closer you get to the Sea of Japan, the heavier the snowfalls get. The westernmost ski area is tiny Seki Onsen which has more than 14 metres of snowfall per year. Yet again, in 2026, it was the first resort in the world to report 5m snow depth. Although ski areas further north like Hakkoda near Aomori are snowier still, they are harder to get to, colder and much more prone to wind.

Seki is legendary for its steep lines, open bowls and tree-runs, serviced by two old chair lifts; one of which opens for just an hour or two per day accessing some of the best slack country in Japan, or anywhere else for that matter. Snowboarders appear to outnumber skiers by about 5 to 1.

There is limited accommodation here so most visitors stay in nearby Akakura and come for fresh snow days, which are frequent. There are rumours of investment and of extending the lifts 300m higher. Hardly surprising, given the ticket and lift queues after a dump of fresh snow. The demand is plain to see.

Head up the valley from Seki and the snow gets even deeper. Between tunnels, the road becomes a white canyon cut through metres of snow. The dead-end road forks once. To the right is the remote and austere settlement of Tsubame Onsen, where slimy hot springs overflow down the road making it as slippery as if it was covered with ice.

To the left ends at the Tsubame Highland hotel, a grand building surrounded by beech forest. The stunningly beautiful setting is tranquil and feels very isolated. You might be forgiven for thinking that there is not much here for skiers and boarders besides being a base for Seki. Not so. This is a backcountry nirvana and it is much less remote than it seems.

John Cheng saw the potential and bought the 40-bed hotel 3 years ago with the intention of renovating it without compromising its Swiss-influenced charm. The bedrooms are a high standard, the food was excellent and the staff were incredibly helpful and friendly and the onsen was perfect at the end of a big day.

Every night, John fires up the floodlights and the view from every room is an otherworldly vista of icicles framing beech trees casting shadows on metres of snow; patrolled by martens and ermines.

By day, the Akakura slopes are easily accessible. A narrow downhill ski trail that passes alongside the hotel and onto the pistes via a snow-lined tunnel which you can ski through. As long as you are comfortable with moderately steep tree skiing, you can easily return to Tsubame Highland by taking the closest chairlift and dropping off the ridge. Alternatively, just arrange for a lift back from Akakaura and the staff will oblige for free.

The location is ideal for intermediate to advanced backcountry skiers and boarders so it was no surprise to discover that legendary Canadian backcountry guide Tom Wolfe had based a large touring group here for a week. We missed him by a day so I emailed Tom and said I hoped he had cut some up-tracks. He wryly replied that those tracks would be under a metre of powder by now! And so it proved to be.

Either skin up directly from here or take the highest of the Akakaura chairs and ascend to a nearby false summit with several variations on the descent and fresh tracks guaranteed. If the weather is good and the snow is safe, you can even head to Suginhoara early and take lifts to the top, from where it is possible to traverse the whole mountain. This is big country with hazards aplenty. If in any doubt, hire a local guide or jump on Tom's Sawback website.

Tsubame Highland is a very special place and John is typical of a new generation of investors who can see the unique opportunity Japan presents in a world where climate change is proving challenging for established ski regions elsewhere.

As the Sea of Japan gets warmer and evaporation increases, Japanese winters will likely trend even snowier. Australians and Kiwis were first, but increasingly, you are just as likely to meet Canadians and Americans or a whole new generation of skiers and boarders from China and Singapore.

The future of Japanese skiing seems uniquely bright, nowhere more so than at the wild side of Mount Myoko.

Patagonia’s Worn Wear repair vehicles are on the road this winter, travelling to mountain towns and snow events across Europe for the Patagonia Worn Wear Snow Tour 2025.

The rolling repair shops will travel to snow destinations across the Alps and the UK, Patagonia’s repair team onboard will offer free repairs on any brand of clothing, on a first come, first served basis.

Skiers and snowboarders can bring in busted zippers, rips, tears, buttons, pulls and more. On top of free repairs, the Patagonia team will be teaching skiers and riders how to fix their own gear, helping to extend the life of what they already own and keeping more clothing out of landfill.

Patagonia’s wooden trailer that houses its repair shop has been hand-built to be able to travel to the toughest locations around Europe. It will house technical repair equipment and will bring hot chocolate and good vibes to the slopes. The Worn Wear repair team will also educate people on how to keep snow gear in good condition for multiple seasons and will teach skills such as patching, re-waterproofing shells and fixing zippers. Find your local stop of the repair tour here.

The company’s Worn Wear programme was created in 2013 to encourage people to take good care of their gear, washing and repairing as needed.   Extending the life of our garments, through proper care and repair, is the single most important thing we can do to lower our impact on the planet and reduces the need to buy more over time, thereby avoiding the CO2 emissions, waste output, and water usage required to build it.   By keeping our clothing in use just nine extra months, we can reduce related carbon, waste and water footprints by 20-30 percent each, according to the UK-based group WRAP – simply because we’re making and throwing away less.  To scale repairs across Europe, Patagonia has partnered with the United Repair Centre and opened repair facilities in Amsterdam, London and Paris with the goal of repairing 100,000 pieces of clothing per year by 2028.

Over 30 Worn Wear Repair events were hosted throughout Europe last year with Worn Wear teams able to fix more than 2,300 pieces of clothing. In total, Patagonia was able to repair more than 35,000 pieces of clothing in Europe in 2025. Globally, more than 110 repair locations fix Patagonia clothing for free, or for a nominal charge.

Worn Wear Snow Tour Dates

United Kingdom 

•            13-15 February – Fort William, United Kingdom 

•            20-22 February – Aviemore, United Kingdom 

France 

•            26-27 February – Val d’Isere, France 

•            1-3 March – Avoriaz, France 

•            8-10 March – Les Arcs, France 

Italy 

•            6-8 March – Santa Caterina Valfurva, Italy 

•            13-15 March – Montespluga, Italy 

Germany, Austria & Switzerland 

•            14-15 March – Salzburg, Austria 

•            20-21 March – Regensburg, Germany 

•            24-26 March – Verbier, Switzerland 

•            27-29 March – Pontresina, Switzerland 

Scandinavia 

•            4-5 March – Levi, Finland 

•            7-8 March – Ruka, Finland