Powder Snow
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| The SWS area receives 15 metres of snowfall per season on average so there’s a good chance you’ll get to use your snorkel. Occasionally the temperatures warm up somewhat, and when we visited the powder was a little heavy. However as a general rule the powder is very dry thanks to cold temperatures and the “fridge effect” of the location. The terrain has lots of aspects to find the best snow, and with minimal winds, the alpine snow is generally not wind affected. |
Overall Terrain
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| The terrain at SWS absolutely rocks! It’s reasonably large at 7,800 hectares and there is sooooo much variety. There’s no sense of déjà vu. The terrain has lots of different aspects and you get lots of vertical per day. It’s obvious that Allan Drury put a lot of time and thought into selecting the little piece of paradise, and the operation has had since 1975 to perfect any glading requirements. |
| Alpine Terrain |
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| SWS has a good range of alpine terrain of varying pitches. Even with moderate avalanche risk they are able to access much of this terrain due to the shape of the terrain and ability to select ridges and other “safe” slopes. |
| Tree Skiing |
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| The tree skiing is absolutely stupendous! The diversity is what makes it so special. The trees are sometimes tight and sometimes widely spaced. There are big trees, little Xmas trees, a speckling of open meadows, cliffs amongst the trees, quarter pipes, and variability in the pitch. You could never get bored. |
Strong Intermediate Terrain
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not rated
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| This has not been reviewed. |
Advanced Terrain
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| This scores full marks, once again for the huge variation in both alpine and tree skiing. |
Expert & Extreme Terrain
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| Some of the really steep terrain is in the alpine, and as to be expected, the ability to access this is dependent on snowpack stability. Within the trees there’s a sprinkling of cliff bands that get the adrenaline going. |
| Guiding |
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| Many of the guides have worked at SWS for over 10 years so they know the terrain incredibly well. They have plenty of personality which adds to the whole experience, and the guides provide clear instructions regarding avalanche risk and appropriate lines to take. They could have re-grouped a fraction more, but they must have trusted us not to misbehave! The good guide to guest ratio is also a plus. |
| Snowcat |
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Selkirk Wilderness Skiing has the perfect setup for a snowcat cabin. We got to ride in their brand new (in 2010) Bombardier cat. All seats face forwards, there are holders for drinks and other paraphernalia, comfortable pleather seats, storage cupboards under the seats, and a heater. The cabin is spacious and the seats are not too high as to prevent social activity. The steps out the back make it easier and safer for guests to get in and out, and the cat tracks can have spikes on them so it can travel faster.
The efficient cat track system also helps with speed so you can get plenty of vertical in. They have four snowcats, but only use two and have two as a backup.
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Avalanche Mitigation Strategies
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| The emphasis on safety is very evident at SWS, and they put significant effort into avalanche risk management. They use blasting sometimes but not routinely, and use slope selection as a primary strategy. They actively utilise local avalanche forecasting, have morning and afternoon guide meetings, undertake onsite slope testing and take pride in the qualifications and experience of their guides. |
Safety Briefing
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| Safety as a priority is also apparent with the comprehensive briefings provided. A structured sit-down briefing is provided the night prior to skiing using a powerpoint presentation, so no aspects of backcountry hazards are glossed over. The tutorial includes plenty of opportunity for questions. The next morning avalanche beacon, probe and shovel practice is covered, including practical application, and an orientation to safety equipment (e.g. sled, oxygen) within the snowcat is provided. |
Frills
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| A range of snacks are provided throughout the day including healthy things such as fruit and vegies, and treats such as yummy slices. Lunch includes rolls with gourmet fillings. SWS rent out a range of quality powder skis, so you’ll be able to feel like a legend out on the snow. |
| Accommodation |
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The décor of the lodge has more of an emphasis on simplicity, comfort and homeliness than luxury, which suits the culture of the operation. The extension to the lodge feels a little like a portable building, but this has given them plenty of space. Another minor shortcoming is that there are no ensuite bathrooms, just lots of communal washrooms.
The range of room configurations is a major plus, and it’s possible to stay in a single room, twin room, or king room. The comfort of the beds and bedding is also fantastic. The meals are superb, and the welcoming nature of the staff is exceptional. The lodge has lots of facilities, and you’ll definitely feel right at home.
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Value for Money
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| At SWS you get outstanding quality, but this does not come cheaply and powder skis are not included in the package. See our Canada cat skiing cost comparison to get an idea of how the rates for SWS fare against other operators. |