Due to the failure of a lift tower on a gondola in 2008 (Blackcomb's Excalibur Gondola), the British Columbia Safety Authority has implemented some new regulations to prevent a repeat incident. The BCSA concluded after its investigation of the incident that the tower failed due to ice jacking. This occurs when water enters a lift tower and freezes. As the water expands, the tower becomes unduly stressed and then buckles. While preventing such problems is already part of the building code in Canada, the regulations aim to make it harder for them to happen, by more clearly defining responsibilities and liabilities of operators and manufacturers.

  Fernie, British Columbia is a great, safe, place for a winter vacation of any type. For those that wish not to put their lives in the care of lifts, snow cat skiing is a great alternative. Not only do you get access to the untouched backcountry that makes B.C. such a spectacular destination for skiing and snowboarding, you get the convenience of driving up the mountain in a nice sturdy snow cat.

 If you're looking for snow cat skiing in Fernie B.C., then there are two operators who bear mentioning. Powder Cowboy offers a uniquely western themed vacation. Open during the summer as a Dude Ranch, and during the winter for catskiing, Powder Cowboy is a great place to stay. As for the skiing, 6,000 acres, nine different zones, and all the trees, ridges, chutes, and bowls you can ski make for a very enjoyable time. Not only do you skip the lift lines and possibly unsafe lift towers, you get first tracks through a rich powdery wonderland.

 Island Lake Catskiing is the other resort to visit here in Fernie. It offers a more upscale and luxurious vacation environment. It also sits on 7,000 acres of premium ski terrain. Get great first tracks as well as great relaxation in their world-class spa. Enjoy gourmet meals every night, and be ready for another epic day in the backcountry without the hassle of a lift.