SPRING SKIING IN CANADA: STRETCHING THE SEASON!
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Time to read 5 min
A true snowboarding enthusiast, Ica Bee travels across ski resorts in Quebec, throughout Canada, and even to Japan to pursue her favorite sport and extend the snow season. Her passion for the outdoors is contagious, and her philosophy aligns perfectly with NOPé’s values: moving freely, simply, and for the joy of it.
At the time of the interview, Ica had already logged 42 days on the slopes… and the season was far from over! In this article, our NOPé collaborator shares her best tips and favorite resorts to make the most of spring skiing.
About you and your background
Can you briefly introduce yourself and tell us about your passion for snowboarding?
“My name is Ica and I first tried snowboarding back in 2013. A friend of mine took me and a few friends to our local hill. She showed us how to strap onto our bindings and told us to just go. I had no idea what I was doing but I fell in love with it. I purchased a set of used gear after my first time and started teaching myself through YouTube videos. My now husband learned how to ride when we first started talking. We went from me teaching him how to ride to travelling to different resorts.”
What role does snowboarding play in your life today?
“It’s definitely not just a hobby, it’s part of our life. It’s something that we look forward to every year. You know how people get seasonal depression in the winter season? I get seasonal depression when winter is over! Snowboarding and being in the mountains makes me so happy. It’s a feeling you can’t explain. I’ve also become a certified snowboarding instructor in 2023 and enjoy teaching beginners.”
How did you become a content creator in the outdoor space?
“Honestly, it kind of just happened. I used to make a lot of beauty content (I’m a professional hair and makeup artist) but there came a point where I wasn’t really motivated to make beauty content anymore. With snowboarding and the outdoors, I actually enjoy it so much that I would just post and share whatever I felt like posting. I didn’t think of it as a job. I genuinely just wanted to share our winter season, our travels, our gear, and everything in between. Somehow it just worked and brands started reaching out.”
Looking back on your past year, what have been your most memorable snowboarding experiences or destinations?
“Definitely Lake Louise Ski Resort back in November. It’s where we got engaged! We go to Banff twice a year to ride but last year was definitely the most memorable!”
Spring snowboarding: a unique experience
What do you particularly enjoy about late-season snowboarding compared to winter?
“I actually really love the warmer weather and being able to just wear a base layer or a crew neck! The other best part? The slush! Spring season is when we try to SEND IT since the snow is soft and it cushions your falls.”
How would you describe the overall atmosphere of a day in the mountains at this time of year?
“It’s pretty chill! The day is also longer so we all enjoy the day light and the apres drinks.”
Where to ride in Canada in the spring
What are your go-to places in Canada for skiing or snowboarding in the spring?
“Definitely Mont Tremblant in Quebec and Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village in Alberta. I haven’t been to Whistler in the winter months but I’ve heard their season also lasts until May. Honestly I wish our season was longer in Ontario.”
Snow conditions and timing
What are snow conditions like in late spring?
“Snow conditions in late spring can still change day to day - we also want to watch out for the rain! You can expect it to be wet and slushy for the most part. Depending on temperatures and where exactly, the snow goes through repeated freeze-thaw cycles - usually close to freezing at night and warm again during day. We get a type of snow that is granular and looks like corn kernels. We love corn snow!”
Can you describe a typical spring snowboarding day (temperature, snow conditions, how things evolve throughout the day)?
“In the morning when it’s usually the coldest, the snow might still be a little frozen so the runs can be icy. We might wear an extra layer in the morning or an overhood. As the day warms up and the terrain gets ridden on, the snow gets a little softer and this is usually the best spring snow condition you can get (corn snow). Later on in the day, the snow usually gets heavier and wet. The slush tends to slow you down, especially if you do not have the right type of wax on your board!”
What time of day is best to ride in order to enjoy optimal conditions?
I would say around 10:30 to 1 pm. You can still get really good turns in the afternoon but snow tends to be heavier then.
Accessibility and skills levels
Are spring skiing and snowboarding accessible to all skill levels?
Yes! The snow can be forgiving at this time of year. It’s softer so beginners won’t be as scared to fall as they’re not falling on hard ice. I do want to caution riders about catching an edge as the snow can get bumpy quite quickly.
Common mistakes and safety
What are the most common mistakes you see people make when riding in the spring?
Not wearing sunscreen or not wearing enough layers!
Do you have any tips to help prevent injuries, especially when the snow softens and obstacles start to reappear?
Always look ahead and anticipate your turns. Usually resorts are pretty good with marking the trails but it’s still your responsibility to ride safely.
Gear and essentials
How would you recommend dressing for skiing or snowboarding in the spring, given the temperature fluctuations?
I would say pack layers or dress in layers. It’s okay to wear extra layers and take them off as the day goes on. It’s always better to be over prepared than under prepared.
In your opinion, what are the essentials not to forget for a successful day out?
Sunscreen, water, snacks, safety gear (helmet, butt pads, knee pads, etc), goggles, NOPé overhoods and facemasks, waterproof outer layer, phone to track your riding!
How did you discover NOPé products, and what do you particularly appreciate about them?
My husband actually discovered NOPé through Instagram. I love the material and quality of NOPé products. I have 42 days on snow this season and none of them are showing any wear/tear. I love how the overhoods fit - they’re not tight to my face so I don’t feel like I’m suffocating. The last best thing, I LOVE the colour choices.
The NOPé experience
Beyond performance, what makes spring skiing or snowboarding days unique for you ?
Being able to ride in just my base layer and NOPé hood or a long sleeve with a face mask while sending it to try and land a frontside 360.
Choosing your spring ski destination
Looking to extend the season and enjoy those last sunny runs? To check snow conditions in real time across the country: Ski Canada Conditions
To follow our collaborator Ica Bee’s mountain adventures and outdoor content: Instagram
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