Words/Photos: By Scotty Conerly

Before the madness of the Olympics started in the Vancouver/Whistler regions, I thought a visit up north for some good shredding was in order. With all of their recent snowfall, and the multiple DAKINE team riders telling me how good things have been it was time to get up there.
So I loaded up the 4runner, enlisted DAKINE am Johnnie Paxson and began the eight hour trek.

Johnnie's bed

As we arrived in town we headed to Camp of Champions marketing manager Fabia Gruebler lush mountain chalet to relax before the week of shred began. The next morning we woke up to blue skies and some of the most breathtaking views Canada could provide us with.
We had the good fortune of having Whistler local and DAKINE pro team rider Annie Boulanger giving us a tour of Whistler/Blackcomb.

Annie B

Johnnie Paxson jibslide Blackcomb banks

Day one consisted of hit runs and long leg burning laps on a bit of dust on crust. It was a bit sketchy but great to be able to get out and get some turns in on our first day.
In all honesty it was pretty comical, watching Annie and her graceful mellow riding style while Johnnie was flipping and spinning off every little bump he could find.
Day two we were greeting with 17cms of new snow and some serious smiling faces. However by the time we actually got to the top of Blackcomb the temperatures had risen and the snow had turned into hot pow.

Annie B

Annie B

The day ended up being a lot of fun and we headed in a bit early to save our legs for the following days to come. Stay tuned for day three and four posts coming soon!

Johnnie Paxson