Want exclusive resort insights? Want to know where to find epic après? Get the latest updates from your favorite resorts and brands! During our Q&A series you will hear from resort experts, brand leaders, and après aficionados! This week we caught up with Ian Deans, a former World-Cup skier to get all his tips for finishing the ski season on a high note.
Ian Deans is a professional skier, formerly competing for the Canada Alpine Ski Team and has earned multiple Nor-Am and Europe Cup podiums. Today Ian is a leader and trusted voice in the global ski community. As a content creator Ian shares videos on TikTok and Instagram, he is known for his viral content featuring high-speed descents and backcountry adventures. If you’ve spent any time on #SkiTok you have probably come across his thrilling content!
How long have you been skiing?
I started skiing when I was about 2 years old. I grew up skiing in Canada, and I consider Big White my home mountain. It’s where I fell in love with the sport and pushed myself to get better every season.
Favorite place you’ve ever skied?
That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say Arosa, Switzerland. This place is straight out of a magazine. Endless opportunities to get creative on the mountain. Plus, the vibe there is just unmatched.
What ski destination is still on your bucket list?
Fjords of Norway, hands down. I’ve been dreaming of skiing the legendary couloirs from a sailboat and experiencing the culture around skiing there. It just seems unreal.
Go to order at après?
A plate of poutine. Nothing hits better after a long day on the mountain.
Best après experience you’ve ever had?
The best après I’ve ever had was at Whistler during the World Ski and Snowboard Festival. It felt like the entire mountain came together to party, with live music, and just a great energy everywhere.
Which mountains do you personally feel like have the best spring skiing?
Sunshine Village is a spring skiing paradise. I look for good snow coverage, sunny days, and that perfect corn snow that’s soft and playful without getting too slushy. Sunshine checks all those boxes and usually has one of the longest seasons around. You may even get surprised by a pow day!
Number one tip for people planning a spring ski trip?
Keep an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your trip to know if conditions are looking good. March is the most erratic month for weather. I like to check The Weather Channel app’s premium Air Travel tool, which helps you know ahead if weather might impact flights to avoid the usual stress of travel.
Where would you go late in ski season if you wanted the best chance at a powder day?
I’d head to Alta or Snowbird in Utah. Those spots have a reputation for holding onto snow late in the season, and they still get those surprise spring powder dumps. Plus, I’m always tracking conditions using The Weather Channel app, so I can time it right.
Tell us about your work with The Weather Company?
I’m helping promote the snowfall forecast because it’s been clutch for me, showing different potential snow outcomes to best prepare for my next trip or run. It shows a probabilistic forecast. While traditional forecasts might predict 5 inches of snowfall in the next 24 hours, a probabilistic forecast highlights the range of possibilities — showing that snowfall could be as little as 1 inch or as much as 10 inches. This added context helps skiers embrace uncertainty, make informed decisions, and prepare for anything from light flurries to a major snowstorm.
Any #SkiTok trends you particularly like? Anything about the #SkiTok online community you would change?
I love how creative people get with their edits and storytelling, whether it’s gnarly lines or hilarious ski fails. One trend I’ve been digging lately is the POV shots mixed with storytelling — it really makes you feel like you’re right there. If there’s one thing I’d change, it’s the gatekeeping that sometimes pops up. Skiing should be inclusive and fun for everyone, no matter your skill level.
Where can people find you?
You can find me on Instagram @iandeans and TikTok @ian.deans, where I share everything from powder runs to behind-the-scenes of my adventures. I’ve got some exciting projects coming up, including more Strava Segment Sniping, so stay tuned!
Ian’s passion for skiing and the fun inclusive community he is building online is exactly why we love this sport! Huge thank you to Ian for sharing his spring ski trip tips with us. Are you making a difference in the ski industry? Do you host fun and exciting events for skiers and snowboarders? Want to share what makes your resort special? Reach out to us at editor@apreschronicles.com to be featured in our Q&A series.
