September 12th, 2003 (Calgary, AB) – The endless days of summer have come to a rapid close as an early snowfall hit the mountains of Lake Louise and Fernie this week.  The Resorts were left with a sufficient dusting of snow leaving the top of the mountains covered in white.

Lake Louise, which is still open for summer business until September 30th, welcomed a good coverage of snow at 6800ft and, as of Friday morning, was still receiving snow on the backside of the mountain at Temple.  The 2003/004 ski season is scheduled to begin on November 7th at Lake Louise ski area with their world-class snowmaking in full operation beginning on October 15th.

“The first snowfall is always exciting for us, particularly when it comes so early in the year “, says Matt Mosteller, Senior Director of Business Development.  “We are extremely excited about the upcoming season; the early snow, coupled with our phenomenal snowmaking capabilities, will ensure our customers will have excellent early season ski conditions.”

Fernie Alpine Resort, famed for its legendary powder and limitless terrain, received a light dusting of snow high in the alpine and expects more to come in the weeks to follow.  Opening date for Fernie is scheduled for November 27th with major new developments in the works.

The snowmaking has been upgraded at the Resort to include full coverage of man-made snow from the base area to the Bear Chair, allowing for early season skiing on the lower runs of the mountain.  Developments are underway in the village core and include an expanded Customer Service area with 3 new ticket windows, a new barbeque pit complete with a large outdoor beer garden and a renovated full-service coffee bar proudly serving Starbucks coffee.

“We are extremely thrilled with the new developments at Fernie for the upcoming ski season”, says Ted Funston, Area Manager for Fernie Alpine Resort.  “The upgrades in snowmaking and the improvements in the village core area will provide an exceptional vacation experience for our guests”.

The timing of the first snowfall is ideal as this change of weather entices people to think about skiing and the upcoming ski season. Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, owners and operators of Lake Louise Ski Area, Fernie and Kimberley Alpine Resorts, Nakiska and Fortress, is currently selling their Season Pass's at early bird prices.  Savings of up to 20% are offered on a variety of pass options until September 20th, 2003.

RCR Season Passes can be purchased by calling 1-800-258-7669, online at www.skircr.com, or in person at the Calgary head office, 1505-17th Ave. SW, Lake Louise ski area, Fernie Alpine Resort and Kimberley Alpine Resort.