Let it snow
STORY BY KAT PICKFORD |
SUPPLIED
For some , winter is the season to simply survive , for others it ’ s the season to thrive and our skifields are the perfect place to take advantage of the colder months .
With cooler temperatures and shorter days , it ’ s time to pull on the woolly long johns and find the pot of winter ’ s white gold at the end of the Rainbow Road .
While Nelson ’ s litllies and alpine veterans will be rejoicing at the recent cold weather and its promise of delivering plenty of powder this season , James Lazor the newlyappointed General Manager of Rainbow Ski Area , says predicting alpine weather is a mug ’ s game .
“ We ’ ve all got our eyes glued to the weather forecast at this time of year , but actually it all comes down to what Mother Nature does on the day ,” he says .
Standing at 1760 metres , Rainbow captures regular winter snow , which is topped up with extensive snow making . James says the cold weather last month meant the snowmaking team were able to start making snow in early June .
“ We ’ re really well set up to take advantage of the colder weather now , so if this cool weather continues , the base and main tracks will have good snow cover when we open .”
James has lived and skied all over the world and says Rainbow is unique for its ease of access and stunning vistas .
“ Rainbow is so well situated - it ’ s only a 90-minute drive from a pretty big population base . The fact that you can wake up in the morning by the beach , spend the day skiing some pretty amazing terrain , and be back home for dinner is remarkable .”
Last summer Rainbow focussed on developing the access road to make it easier and safer to drive up . However , there is also a regular shuttle service for people who aren ’ t confident driving in alpine conditions or don ’ t have a suitable vehicle .
Part of the beauty of Rainbow is its varied terrain , with something to suit people of almost any age and level . Experienced skiers and boarders can get their kicks on the upper mountain . When conditions are right , the West Bowl opens up access to a multitude of high powder runs and chutes . On the lower mountain , there ’ s ample space for beginners to safely start linking turns , while intermediate skiers and boarders get the lion ’ s share of the terrain , with plenty of natural jumps , bumps and drops to play on .
A recent partnership with Cheapskates Nelson means the terrain park has been further developed this year , with a series of small rollers , kickers and rails for park riders to hone their skills .
Rainbow has a strong family-friendly culture and invites people up to experience the snow even if they don ’ t buy a lift pass . There is a sliding and snow play area for kids and the young at heart to make snowmen , throw snowballs and go tobogganing .
Rainbow has an extensive list of events and race meets over winter , kicking off with their opening party on 7 July , which will include live music , a barbecue and giveaways in the classic laid-back Rainbow style .