The Mercedes traction control made it possible, towing a trailer with two sleds up to the pass in 8" of new, no chains. Braking trail with the sleds until we got above the tree line and then began to climb and ski three runs in the surrounding area. The fridge had some cold beers waiting for us and we heated up pizza in the microwave.
Surf Tech board testing. Ford Excursion, biggest rental SUV available, could not hold a third of the gear I regularly carry in my Diesel Sprinter. No fridge, no sink, no shower, not the way to be on the Outside.
Arriving in the Kooteny mountains to fresh snow and clearing skies, we scored lift access and back country skiing from the door of the van. Temperatures dropped below 0 degree F and we were still warm through the night and our gear was dry.
Thanks to the winch behind the passenger seat, loading up a jet ski is a matter of minutes. Surfboards fit alongside the walls and onto the ceiling space inside. We drove out to the coast and suited up for tow in surfing. Everything lined up and we had a clean session. When you don't have to worry about the logistics, you can concentrate on your surfing. More time on the water.