Headed into the Canadian Rockies this year you are in for a treat: there’s masses of snow forecast! And with resorts now opening it’s guaranteed to be an excellent season. Still, it’s never just about the snow…

To get to Marmot it’s a four-hour journey along Highway 16 to Jasper. You are heading into a UNESCO World Heritage Site and if the anticipation of fresh powder and endless runs isn’t enough, just take a moment and take in the scenery.

Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and includes the glaciers of the Columbia Icefield, hot springs, lakes and majestic wildlife – there’s more than wide-eyed skiers and snowboarders on those mountains: a little closer and you’ll spot bighorn sheep, mountain goats and majestic elk – it’s an elk, not a moose!

Skiing Marmot basin you’ve 3 main lodge buildings, one at the base of the mountain and 2 at the mid-mountain area, and runs are equally well divided. Here you‘ll find 86 runs split 30% novice, 30% intermediate, 20% advanced and 20% expert. So whatever your standard you’ll have miles of piste to play with.

For spectacular views take the Knob Chair up to Marmot Peak – here you’ll be above the tree line and into the high alpine region of the mountain.

Lower down there’s also Rogers Terrain Park, with a full range of features as well as rails, boxes, jibs and jumps to tempt you – and test your skills. And the season here lasts for a good 6 months with many visitors making the most of it and returning for more.

If you ski or snowboard you’ll know just how much fuel you need to go back again and again to hit those runs. Well, if Marmot Basin is your destination you’ll have plenty of choice when it comes to food and drink. You may also spot a common theme on the dishes on offer: It’s all a little wicked – Try the Typhoon Noodles or Diabolical Tenderloin at Evil Dave’s Grill.

Other treats include Bear Paw’s Bakery for home made muffins – maybe stash a few in your daysack for later – and for a good early morning caffeine boost drop into Coco’s Café which also specialises in vegan, vegetarian and celiac diets.