Depth Perception: Behind the Scenes at CMH Galena

In Heli-Ski, People
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WORDS BY ALISON JONES | NOVEMBER 9, 2017

March 2017 and the stage was set for what was to be one of the most unique (and praised) stoke movies of the season.

What was originally intended to be a 15minute short turned into a 62minute film, thanks to what seemed like endless snow cycles dropping bounties of the white stuff on terrain that inspired the most veteran rider in the business.

Bunkered in at CMH Galena were Travis Rice along with three riders that he’d selected to join him; Austen Sweetin, Robin Van Gyn, and Bryan Fox. They were in at the deep end for a snow-socked spring with a helicopter in tow and the pick of ultimate terrain to ride and shoot.

A close-knit team of CMH staff led the charge with Travis and the crew at Galena during their 4-week stay. Here’s is a glimpse of the team’s creativity, dedication and persistent pursuit of riding the perfect lines at the absolute right time to create Depth Perception.

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | On-set with the A-Cam poised and focused on a face the crew aptly named ‘Jazz Flute’

“I was with the crew for 10-days. The highlight was simply watching the way they utilized the terrain. They did it justice. People think they are crazy, but you would be shocked at how methodical they are with their safety and how they analyze the terrain and conditions they are about to ride. Working with them was great.” – Mike Welch, Area Manager of CMH Galena

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | Chris Murphy making magic filming Bryan Fox with his beloved Big Pink board

“My highlight during filming was the last full day.  The lodge staff had lunch on top of the mountain with everyone, and we brainstormed about doing a fun run all wearing onesies.  We flew back to the lodge to grab the ski suits and champagne, and then all did a run together in the classic ‘Flying V, CMH schnoodling style.  At the bottom, Travis popped the champagne, and everybody celebrated the end of the shoot.” – Carrie Dooh, Lodge Manager of CMH Galena

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | “That’s a wrap” – Carrie Dooh (center right, flowery onesie), Lodge Manager for CMH Galena, celebrates with Travis and the team on the final run of filming

“The highlight had to be watching them ride complex lines with what seemed like complete confidence and comfort. That was impressive. The entire team was professional yet fun. Travis, in particular, is interesting to watch while he works. He’s extremely driven in knowing what he wants to ride and film” – Duncan Brown, Assistant Area Manager of CMH Galena.

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | A run forever known as ‘Tunnel Buddies’ | Photo: Chip Taylor

“The production crew would spend all day on the mountain and all night on the computer.  Their intensity and dedication was admirable.  Getting to see Travis’ mind in action, chatting with the guides about plans for the next day, working out logistics, was really cool.” – Carrie Dooh, Lodge Manager of CMH Galena

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | The creative process | Photo: Chip Taylor

“One of the biggest challenges was lighting. We had a lot of snow but also cloud, which meant we had to time it right to get the light we needed for the shots.” – Duncan Brown, Assistant Area Manager of CMH Galena

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | Travis Rice and Robin Van Gyn pick out their lines

“Travis, Austin, Robyn, and Bryan are all super nice and down to earth.  Just regular people who can snowboard a hell of a lot better than anyone else.” – Carrie Dooh, Lodge Manager of CMH Galena

Depth Perception, Travis Rice, Snowboarding, BC, CMH Galena
CMH Galena | Austen Sweetin and Robin Van Gyn and the not so tiny Stella, jamming out in the backcountry | Photo: Chip Taylor

 

In partnership with Quiksilver, Travis Rice’s latest film is now available for download. Filmed entirely at CMH Galena, Depth Perception is a shred fest that will make you laugh while giving you goosebumps and ultimately amp your excitement to get back on snow.