The early bird catches the FIRST TRACKS

When Whistler Blackcomb officials announced last week that Whistler Mountain would open 12 days early, one group of local teens was ready to launch into action.

Around 10 high school students — from Grades 10 to 12 — bundled up in winter wear and thick blankets to camp out in front of the Whistler Village gondola at 7 a.m. on Friday, more than 24 hours ahead of the mountain's opening.

"It's nice being at the front of the line when you see people way back there," said Michael Overbeck later that night, clutching a cup of hot chocolate.

It wasn’t so much ideal conditions that motivated them — the crew anticipated not much more than a light dusting of snow on most runs — but more the annual ritual of celebrating another season. Some of them had been camping out on opening night for the last six years. "It's not about skiing," said Malcom Watson. "It's about hanging out with your friends."

Love the tradition and friendship 🙂