We've had a bit of a dry spell here lately as far as snow goes.  The good thing though is that skies have been classic Alberta blue.  Temperatures stayed steady and cold. The snowpack in the surrounding Lake Louise backcountry tightened up enough for many locals to head out to ride lines that aren't usually ridden this time of year.

Lake Louise has some really amazing backcountry that can be accessed right from the ski resorts boundaries.  One should note firstly though.  DO NOT HEAD OUT INTO THESE AREAS WITHOUT THE FOLLOWING ITEMS.  Avalanche beacon, shovel, probe and knowledge to use the gear as well as knowledge of terrain and snowpack.

Looks awesome just beyond the rope... Make sure you, and who your with know where your going and getting into. Lake Louise, AB

Into the white... Julian Labonte starts the day off with a fresh bowl in the Lake Louise backcountry.

Shane Mooney follows with some early morning toe-side spray. Lake Louise, Alberta

Far from the resort and into the backcountry. Lake Louise, Alberta.

Switching up snowboards for snowshoes and split-boards.  Getting ready to climb our objective of the day. Lake Louise, Alberta

Gaining altitude....and getting a different view of the surrounding backcountry. Lake Louise, Alberta

Backcountry poles, backpack, shovel, probe, avalanche beacon, food, water, first aid kit and knowledge of the snow.... just a short list of things you need to get to a place like this one.  Lake Louise, Alberta.

Base jumping???

Final approach... 

Don't forget the sun tan lotion and a sweet pair of shades.  Lake Louise, Alberta.

The payoff.... a long ride down in untracked snow.  Julian Labonte, Lake Louise, AB.

Laps are done.... thumbs up from Shane Mooney. Lake Louise, Alberta

Hiking back to the parking lot....

Get in the car... it's time for Apres.....

Hiking in the backcountry should be taken seriously and planned out well.  For more information about hiking in your area in Canada or in the Lake Louise area. Go to....www.avalanche.ca and check your local region.   A report is posted in the Lake Louise day lodge in 3 different locations.  You can also visit the Snow Safety building if you have further questions regarding the local area.  Remember to ride safe and obey closures in-bounds as well.

APRES Backcountry in Banff..... The local spot.

 The MAGPIE AND STUMP. Located on Caribou Street, Banff, Alberta.

The best place in Banff to drink jars of beer,tequila, margaritas and the bars specialty the "Bulldog".  A different touch to the bar is that it's Banff's only peanut bar where you can eat all the peanuts you want.. and just throw them on the floor. You'll find this place filled with local riders every night of the week and a bar staff that is on the mountain ripping all season.

INFO.

LAKE LOUISE SKI AREA. www.skilouise.com

Dakine backcountry packs and gear: www.dakine.com