Up front, I am a 20 year+ snowboarder, I like to ride "skateboard like" features, natural and park, as well as powder and fast groomers. So based on this I'll give you my 2 cents worth on my home mountain. I've held a seasons pass at Nakiska for a few years now, it's great value for the money, ($300.00 can for an adult pass), it pays off in 3 visits. The average travel time from Calgary is less than 1 hour, less driving, more riding. The hill is fast as it was designed and built for the 88 winter Olympics. It has great lifts, and excellent snow making, so there is always coverage on the runs, but with out natural snow in the mix, it tends to get icy. The terrain on the front side is challenging for the new and intermediate riders/skiers, but advanced riders & skiers will find it a little boring as there is little to no natural features or tree runs and it is always groomed cord. With that said, the front is still great for carving and speed runs. The far side Monster glades are new and have plenty of natural features and tree runs, so that makes up for the front side. The terrain park is well laid out, has lots of rails and boxes, a few jumps and can be fun too if your into park riding. The lodge is great, parking is ample and free, the lodge food is good, and the lifts are fast with short lines. A great family mountain, good value and close to home. Some people complain about the mountain, but I believe you get out of it what you put in. If you explore the whole mountain you will find some hidden gems (and some not so hidden!) and cool lines to put a smile on your face. I never leave the mountain dissapointed, always a good day at Nakiska. If you are ever in Calgary, check it out.
