Priorities

Every community is going to have to organize their priorities. In the ski community, it is really no different. One of the biggest challenges for people in the ski community often occurs in the wee hours of the morning, when a snow report is seen that 40+ cm of snow fell overnight. To call in “sick” to work, or miss an epic day of powder. These are the decisions that must be made!

More seriously, there are many things that the communities at resorts need to make. Funding definitely is something that needs to be prioritized. Does money go to new lifts, new terrain, or new staff? All things that are very important.

The group at Castle Mountain was typically not interested in upgrading the chairlifts at the expense of the hill becoming much busier. Sometimes having a quieter hill is more important to people than having a hill that has better equipment.

The community values the quiet feel that is expected at castle rather than adding condo development and making more money. There is something to be said about that. By limiting what can be done at the resort, the loyal users can feel more at home.

My Community Group

Shot Skis are a symbol of the ski community

We all belong to a community. I feel that my community I am most involved with is the ski and snowboard community in Western Canada. I work at a ski shop and I live to get out to the mountains. The community is extremely tight and it’s very fun to be involved with. 

The ski community evolves by sharing knowledge. Giving information on good resorts, proper gear and good runs are the best examples. At first, I felt like a technical geek whenever I went boarding and couldn’t help but checking out what every single person on the mountain was riding on. I felt better when sitting on the chair lift and I could actually have conversations with random strangers about different gear on the market. I really enjoy it. 

Another thing I really like to enhance the community is to discuss the different local ski reports. Having a lot of friends in the industry working at different resorts, I get kept up to date with a lot of snow reports at different places. This allows me to help other people enjoy their experiences more thoroughly. 

Castle Mountain is a great resort for someone who wants to ride
“steep and deep” terrain. Their lift tickets are the best deals in Alberta
and I would highly recommend it to anyone.

By making recommendations, more people can enjoy the hills and have a better outdoor experience.