Whistler Alpine Adventure: A Week at the AlpX Yurt
Guess what? A lucky bunch hit the jackpot in Whistler, scoring 105cm of fresh pow all to themselves in our exclusive Yurt for a week of unreal ski-touring adventures! Opting to skip the queues on the Resort, the group ventured into the backcountry for an epic experience.
The group of four set out on March 5th led by seasoned guide Guillaume of Coast Mountain Guides. Their home base for the next 6 days? The AlpX Yurt, tucked behind the iconic Ts’zil (Mt Currie) and overlooking the beautiful Pemberton Valley.
Lifting off from the Whistler Heliport, the trip began with a quick scenic flight with Blackcomb Helicopters, over Mt Weart and Hibachi Peak to where the AlpX Yurt sits nestled on a ridge tucked into the trees. Thanks to a high-pressure system from Alberta, the group was blessed with their first three days consisting of clear conditions and endless views of the Pemberton region. The winds were gentle from the east and northeast, temperatures ranged from -5°C to -12°C, and blue skies provided the group with an incredible backdrop as they toured the nearby peaks.
After a lower-than-usual snowfall this season, winter returned with a vengeance on Day 4, as a series of frontal systems moved in, bringing with it strong winds and heavy snowfall. By the time the group departed on Day 7, they received a total of 105cm of fresh snow.
Reflecting the changing weather patterns, the snowpack underwent rapid transformation. While the lower snowpack remained well-consolidated, the February rain layer was found 175cm down in the mid-snowpack, and March 8th surface hoar layer was found 105cm down in the upper snowpack. Storm slabs and wind slabs were noted in affected layers, with sun crust found 105cm down in steep south aspects of the upper snowpack.
Presented with constantly changing conditions, the group maintained a disciplined daily routine guided by Guillaume. Mornings began with a comprehensive assessment of the weather forecast, snowpack summary and avalanche hazard. This was followed by a thorough safety briefing, addressing any operational challenges and safety concerns for the day ahead. With their objectives set and safety protocols in place, they ventured into the surrounding terrain.
Highlights of their experience at the AlpX Yurt included not only the thrill of backcountry skiing, fresh snow, and glorious sunny days, but also the ‘warmth and comfort’ of their temporary alpine home. Noted by the group, the Yurt’s location provided easy access to an amazing & diverse range of terrain, from open bowls to tree skiing, with long scenic tours.
We thank Guillaume and his group for sharing their experience and condition observations with us. We look forward to welcoming them back next year!
Ready to embark on your own backcountry adventure? The AlpX Yurt is available for private bookings (self-guided or with a privately booked Guide), and as part of Guided Multi Day Ski Touring adventures. Discover your dream trip and cozy up in alpine comfort—contact us today!
Please note: The ski touring terrain around the Yurt is mostly large high alpine terrain with varying difficulties of slopes, and most suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers with backcountry experience.
Why should I book a Guided Multi Day Ski Touring trip? AlpX’s Guided trip not only includes an ACMG Guide, but also an internal Emergency Response Plan in place with Blackcomb Helicopters should you get injured or need evacuation from the field. By booking the Yurt and self-guiding, or with your own private guide, you understand that you are only booking accommodation with AlpX and are self-sufficient in the backcountry and will be required to call 911 if you need emergency response.
AlpX Yurt: alpx.ca/yurt
Multi Day Guided Ski Touring Trips: alpx.ca/heli-touring
