Banff Dec 27 - Jan 4

This is the worst season start on Hood that I can remember. I just don’t see any quality skiing on Hood until well into 2026. Even if Meadows and Tline can open before the holidays, pent-up demands with holidays coming up on limited terrain do not produce quality experience on the mountain. If you can get away, come to Banff with me. Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise are probably the only major resorts in North America fully open currently.

From Seattle times: “For skiers, Banff is paradise. With three world-class resorts — Lake Louise, Sunshine Village and Mount Norquay — it draws powder hounds from around the globe. The scenery alone could sell lift tickets — and there’s also that famously dry Rocky Mountain snow that locals swear is among the best on earth.” https://www.seattletimes.com/life/travel/banff-national-park-offers-winter-wonders-beyond-skiing/

Leave Portland after Christmas on Saturday, December 27. Ski Banff resorts from Dec-28 through Jan-3 and come back on Sunday the 4th. I would love to find a powder hound or two to share the experience. This trip makes sense if you have Ikon Pass without any blackout dates.