Bring on the sun, because the spring skiing is going to be epic.
According to Whistler-Blackcomb, the month of March ended with a snowpack that is 15 per cent thicker than average.
Compared to the 914 centimetre (360 inch) accumulated snowfall average over the last 20 years, the total on March 31 was 1,062 cm (418 inches).
It started off well this year, with a near record snowfall of 362 cm (148 inches) in the month of December. It was the fifth highest monthly total recorded in the last 25 years.
While other mountains around North America are preparing to shut down operations this month, the Environment Canada weather station on Whistler Mountain is reporting a residual snow pack of 285 cm (112 inches).
The excellent spring conditions bode well for April events, with the Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival taking centre stage between April 12 and 21. There is also the Sierra Wireless-Air Canada Whistler Cup this weekend, an Atomic halfpipe event on April 6, and the Battle of the Ski Schools from April 10 to 12.
Blackcomb Mountain will close on April 21, although Whistler Mountain will be open until June 9 this season.
The Blackcomb Glacier will reopen June 10 for summer skiing and snowboarding, and will remain open until Aug. 4.
