Ski season kicks off on local mountains

The 2024-25 ski season has officially begun on local mountains.

On Cypress Mountain, this opening is earlier than anticipated, and eager snowboarders and skiers couldn’t wait to get their first runs in.

“The snow came super early this year, so I’m super excited about the potential for what the season could be,” one snow fan told The Leader Spirit.

This year’s outlook is much better than last year’s, when opening day saw mountains struggling with warm temperatures and poor terrain.

“We’re open wall-to-wall on Parallel, Windjammer, Panorama, and Forks, so it’s a really good terrain offer for opening day,” said Cypress Mountain president and general manager Matt Davies.

“We’re super optimistic the forecast this season is La Nina, which is colder temperatures than average and more precipitation, which is how it’s playing out now.”

Cypress has expanded its paid parking lots this season to encourage skiers to carpool or take public transit. Season pass holders will still get free parking.

Grouse Mountain opened Saturday morning, but not all runs are available yet. The mountain resort says tickets will be offered at a reduced rate until more terrain is open.

Meanwhile, Whistler Blackcomb is fully open for the season.