Elk Valley Snow Shepherds

Ladies — we’ve got 3 spots left in our Intermediate Women’s Clinic in Fernie, BC this Sunday Jan 11th, 2026! 👀 If you’ve been thinking about it, this is your sign to squeeze in.

👉 Register online: https://elkvalleysnowshepherds.com/ridingclinics

We blinked… and December flew by.
What a strong finish to the month teaching Avalanche Skills Training programs to so many dedicated sledders here in Fernie, BC!

Here’s the part worth talking about:

Last season, 7 avalanche fatalities were recorded across Canada — one involving a snowmobiler, well below the 10-year average of 10.8. But zoom out, and the pattern still matters. Since 2016, snowmobilers account for 38.7% of avalanche incidents — the highest of any user group.

And yet… of the 9,500 people who took an AST course last winter, only 8% were snowmobilers.

So first — a genuine thank you to everyone who chose education so far this season. You’re investing in better decisions, stronger confidence, and more good days in the mountains.

Second — we’re curious:
Why do you think fewer riders are taking avalanche courses?
Cost? Time? Access? Perception? Something else?

Let’s talk about it.

Snow’s falling in .
Are you thinking about the layers it’s falling on?

We enjoyed some great pow turns and clear, high-pressure weather over the holidays with our AST courses and clinics, but it also resulted in widespread surface hoar in the Elk Valley.

With this storm cycle that started today, you can bet we’re paying attention to how that fresh snow is reacting on this layer interface as things continue to load.

📷 Jan 2, 2026

Another year around the sun — and what a good one it was.

To everyone who joined us this season: thank you for the trust, the questions, the commitment, and the willingness to be challenged.

We took you places.
We taught you things.
We asked you to think differently about terrain, snow, and decision-making.

And in return, you showed up ready to learn and ride with intention.

Grateful for the mountains, the moments, and the community we continue to build here in Fernie, BC and beyond!

~Justin & Team

This time of year always brings a mix of excitement and anticipation.
You start thinking about the days ahead, the places you’ll ride, and how to make the most of another winter in the mountains.

And if you’re lucky, you also think about who’s watching you, learning from you, and growing into this sport. Passing on a love for the mountains — and the respect they deserve — is one of the best parts of the season.

What's the number one lesson your role-models taught you about riding? Share it in the comments below.

Good riding partners don’t just show up with a full tank and lunch.
They show up with skills.

Knowing how to travel smart, manage terrain, make decisions as a group, and carry out a rescue if needed — that’s what makes a crew solid in the backcountry.

If you want to be that kind of partner, start with avalanche training and keep sharpening your skills. We’ll help you get there.

Next AST Level 1 course: Dec 13-14th, 2025 | elkvalleysnowshepherds.com

Power doesn’t make progression. Technique does.

Our riding clinics are built for sledders who want to level up their control, balance, and confidence in real mountain terrain. Turns that felt out of reach start to click. Steep feels less intimidating. Everything feels more intentional.

If you’re ready to grow your skillset — not just “hang on and hope” — come ride with us.

👉 See our clinic lineup: elkvalleysnowshepherds.com