Camp Fortune - April 14, 2017

Here we are, at the end of the ski season in the Ottawa-Gatineau region. With the snow nearly all melted from the city and the heavy rain received over the past week, you could easily think that the skiing is over. This is definitely not the case. In fact, I can't remember the last time I skied at Easter at Camp Fortune where they had this much snow, and the skiing conditions were this great. Even more surprising, the Valley is still open, with Pineault and Allen's Alley, in addition to the trails on Skyline. 

I started skiing shortly after opening at 9am. The first trail I tried was Heggveit, the classic double diamond of Camp Fortune. Wow, what a ride. The snow was already softening out and the slope was impeccable. Just a true joy to experience. Thanks to the spring conditions and the more forgiving snow, the imposing wall of this beast of a trail is more easily tamed. Gliding into each turn after turn, the mountain really opens up and delivers on this fantastic spring day.

Next up was Bud Clark and Lower Canadian. These trails were also in great condition. 

Sparks, an intermediate trail that winds its way down the mountain was also lots of fun to enjoy. The upper half, due to the orientation and shade from the sun stayed more firm and winter like during the morning but the bottom half softened out quick enough.

Interesting to note, the snow was soft and enjoyable but wasn't in any way sticky or slushy. Even Humdinger Ravine (the return trail to the Valley side) was easy to cross, and we all know it can often be a bit of a grind as it is quite flat.

On to the Valley side, Pineault and Allen's Alley were both open, providing ski terrain for beginners and intermediates to enjoy. I can't remember the last time these trails, or really any trails outside of Skyline were open this late into the spring, so it was definitely great to see. Even for Advanced or Expert skiers, having these trails available to enjoy relaxing descents down the mountain was appreciated. Once again, the abundant snowfalls and a somewhat cooperative mother nature helped make this possible.

Overall, the conditions were excellent. The trails that were open provided nearly perfect snow coverage, with almost all trails full width, with no ice. Lineups at the two open lifts were non-existant. Today being Easter, there was a family Easter Egg Hunt that took place on Allen's Alley at 11am. Great way for children and parents to get out and walk the mountain, surrounded by perfect blue skies.

Camp Fortune is scheduled to end their ski season on Sunday, however, mother nature has already submitted her friendly reminder that ultimately she is still the boss. Rain is forecasted for late Saturday afternoon into Sunday. So there is a good chance that Saturday may be the last day of the season. With this a strong possibility, you really owe it to yourself to get on out and have a great time.

This ski season has been nothing short of incredible, so why not finish it off in style, with shirts and shorts, on the slopes. Lift tickets are $20 and $5 for ages 6 and under. Skyline will be open 9am-4pm (Friday was the last day for the Valley). Definitely recommended that you check Camp Fortune's website before going to confirm they are open due to the forecasted weather.

This time of year, it is always best to heed the words of MasterGoa... "Get off your couches!"

Happy skiing!