MX-West Ski Trip 2005

Lake Louise, Alberta

recalled by James Gosteli

Well this was our club's first try at planning a ski trip. Club turnout wasn't so great but with friends of friends coming along, our numbers were still good. We left from Calgary around 7:30am and hit Lake Louise about 9:00am. The slopes were already getting crowded so Tracy and I hurried to get our ski rentals. Weather reports were calling for a nice day but that can change in an instant in Alberta (especially in the mountains).

We're about to go off this cliff

Tracy looks a little nervous

It's not as bad as it looks

Jesse and Dan ready for launch

Once at the top of the hill it was a bit cooler but still nice. The view was awesome. Tracy and I haven't been skiing in a long long time so we were a little nervous of wiping out. But it was like riding a bike and we were doing great in no time. Jesse and the others went off on their own path while Jacki-Lee, Heather, Tracy & I took it a little slower on the first run.

Ready to go Jacki?

Tracy working on her form

"You're in for it now punk!"

Cruising down the hill

My attempts at taking pictures while skiing were not easy. I was constantly afraid I would hit a bad drift, wipeout, and destroy the camera in the process. Jesse went over a nice jump at the bottom of the hill but I think I had a bit too much speed when I tried it and crashed beautifully. I wasn't quite used to the style of skis I had on, but there's always next time.

Tracy coming down the hill

Jesse heading for a small jump at the bottom of the hill

Jacki showing good form

A slow stretch

Skiing conditions were excellent and temperatures were hovering around 3 Degrees C. After a few hours of action we desided to take a break and eat some lunch. The place we ate at was packed and we spent several minutes looking for a place to sit. It was a vicious battle but we eventually got a table to ourselves. Small birds were in the area, swiping people's food off the tables. We weren't bothered too much by the birds, probably because of Jesse's singing. ;)

Skiing and taking pictures at the same time

Heading for a steep hill

Tracy kicking up some snow

"Jesse, quit singing."

No wonder these birds are so fat

Tracy & Jacki-Lee, coming off the lift

Jacki showing off her moves

A few of us coming down the hill

After eating we headed to the park area to attempt some jumps. I was blown away but some little 6 year old kids flying over these jumps and landing them with such presision. It sure makes you feel inferior when you watch them. Jesse tried a few of the jumps and did okay. I was still not trust worthy enough of my skis to attempt any huge air.

Weeeeee!

Nice Air

Jesse going for the jump

After a long day we settled down to relax our aching legs with a few drinks. Once the sun started to go down along with the temperature we decided to pack up and head back. We made a stop in Canmore for some food at BPs. We were all ready for a nap afterwards but we still had another hour of driving ahead of us. It was a great day of skiing and boarding and we'll make sure to do it again next year.

Relaxing with a few drinks afterwards

Smiley Tracy

Things must look weird with those on

Later on a Boston Pizza