CWSAA December 2025 Newsletter - Canada West Ski Areas Association

Presidents Message

I counted. Then unbelievingly recounted. And yes, this winter marks my 40th year working in the snowsport industry. Over those years, no two starts to the season have been the same. As a kid at the Kemano Ski Club, I recall not being allowed outside because the snowbanks on either side of the pathway were so high they could collapse and bury us. Another year, we were flirting with a green Christmas. Variable starts are a reality in our industry.

The ski season began early in November in some parts of Western Canada, and of course, many others have followed since. Already this season, we�ve seen the gamut in the West�storm cycles dumping huge snow, cold temperatures suspending operations, and delayed season starts. We also know that one storm cycle can be a game changer, as evidenced by the current weather forecasts for cooler temperatures and snow in many regions. Optimism for the winter ahead is high, and the market indicators remain strong.

As an industry, we are always mindful of macro changes around us and engaged in long-term strategies, but right now, at this time of year, ski area operators are focused on implementation�putting into action the work that provides the greatest experience possible for our guests.

In recent media interviews, CWSAA has included in its comments the many proven strategies and new technologies used by the industry to weatherproof operations. From advances in snowmaking and snow storage to grooming equipment, trail design, and snow farming, operators are fully absorbed in implementing new strategies. Indeed, around the globe, these are norms for running a ski area and speak to the creative, solution-oriented nature of operators�and the long-term confidence in our industry.

Wherever you may be located, on behalf of the CWSAA Board and staff, we wish you, your families, and your teams a wonderful Christmas and holiday season.

CWSAA will be available throughout the holiday period to support the industry as needed, but we will otherwise avoid interrupting operators as everyone supports their teams and serves their guests.

Cheers

� Christopher Nicolson

Highlights of this month's newsletter...

2026 CWSAA Spring Conference

April 27�30, Whistler, BC

Planning is underway for the 2026 CWSAA Spring Conference & Trade Show at the Whistler Conference Centre. Sponsor registration is now open, with general conference registration for ski areas and partners opening January 27, 2026.

Speed & Collision resources

New this month: a new card is now available designed to support speed related, education-focused conversations with guests when speed or safety concerns are identified.

CWSAA Awards Nominations

Now is the time to put forward deserving colleagues � CWSAA Award nominations close January 15.

National Ski & Snowboard Day

National Ski & Snowboard Day takes place February 20, 2026, inviting ski areas to celebrate winter activity and wellness as the 2026 Winter Olympics conclude.

CSC National Research Program

The Canadian Ski Council�s 2025/26 National Research Program is now live, providing participating ski areas with real-time guest experience data through automated surveys.

Ski Resort Risk Management Program�

Registration is open for Selkirk College�s SNOW 156 Ski Resort Risk Management course, a 12-week online program running Jan 19�Apr 13 and offered only once per year.

Rabbit Hill Snow Resort

A new Canadian Ski Hall of Fame & Museum profile highlights Rabbit Hill�s 70-year legacy and the leadership of Bob and Jim Sutherland, Bill Oak, and Derek Look.

Make Holiday Celebrations a Safer Space

Ahead of holiday events, employers are encouraged to explore go2HR training and resources that support safe and positive workplace celebrations.

Places & Faces

Manning Park

Canyon Resort

CWSAA team

Vista Ridge

Mt Seymour

Powder King

Tim Dea

Lone & Peter Harding

https://cwsaa.org/newsletter/december-2025/