March 21, 2010
Marmot Basin
Located in Jasper National Park and the Canadian Rocky Mountains lies a beautiful, snow-filled paradise. Marmot Basin is only 19 kilometers from the town of Jasper, AB and promises to leave lasting memories. It has two high speed quad chairs, one fixed grip quad chair, one triple chair, two double chairs, one T-bar and one magic carpet, bringing their total lift count to 8. There is 1675 acres of skiing at Marmot Basin with a total of 86 trails that break down into 30% Novice, 30% Intermediate, 20% Advanced and 20% Expert.
Marmot Basin caters to every age and ability of athlete whether you’re hitting the slopes for the first time or you’re a seasoned veteran. There are 4 distinct areas of the mountain that are laid out in a manner that makes it easy to navigate so you can go from steep alpine bowls to cruisers to glade skiing all within 1 or 2 chairlift rides. If you haven’t had the chance to visit Marmot Basin you should do it soon, you’ll be glad you did.
What’s new at Marmot Basin
New this season is the Canadian Rockies Express lift. It is the longest high speed quad chair in the Alberta Canadian Rockies and it gets you to the top of the upper area in only 7.5 minutes! The lift accesses novice, intermediate and advanced terrain so skiers of all abilities can take advantage of it. The lift is 2.3 km long, has a vertical rise of 596 metres and provides a 4 km non-stop run!
This winter in particular has been an amazing season for snowfall at Marmot. They received record breaking amounts of snow in November and their total snowfall to date is already over 400 cms! They also had their earliest opening in history, opening their doors on November 11th, 2009.
What you may not know about Marmot Basin
Marmot Basin is committed to environmental sustainability and preserving the natural beauty of Jasper National Park. Their mandate is to have minimal impact on the environment and to reduce, reuse and recycle whenever possible. They were also awarded the Jasper National Park Heritage Stewardship Award in 2004 and continue to strive for environmental excellence.
There are always tons of events going on at Marmot Basin throughout the winter months. From alpine races to terrain park competitions, there is always something happening to keep you entertained. On Saturday, April 3rd, Canadian Olympic medalist Jenn Heil will be at Marmot! Meet her at mid-mountain, get her autograph and go for a run with a Canadian Olympic hero! For more information on events at Marmot Basin click here.
Marmot has a terrain park! With a wide variety of rails, jumps and boxes to choose from, the Rogers terrain park at Marmot is sure to keep you busy no matter what your age or ability.
Top 5 reasons to visit Marmot Basin
1. Family Friendly
Skiers and riders of all abilities love Marmot Basin, but families in particular are fond of this mountain. The terrain is easy to navigate, the slopes are un-crowded, the atmosphere is very relaxed and they offer a wide variety of lessons and programs.
2. Convenience
Marmot Basin keeps things simple by incorporating the majority of their amenities within the same building. The Caribou Chalet plays host to the ticket centre, guest services desk, snow sports school, Little Rascals Nursery, rental shop, retail shop and group sales which provides guests with a one-stop-shop that is easy and convenient.
3. Scenery
It is tough to match the beauty and ruggedness of Jasper’s Rocky Mountain scenery. Every lift on the mountain incorporates a different view of the National Park’s splendor and the overall uniqueness of this resort is truly breathtaking.
4. Variety
With 4 distinct regions all within one ski area, Marmot offers a ton of terrain for all abilities of skier or snowboarder. You will also find a novice, intermediate and expert trails leading from the top of every lift which makes its diversity tough to compete with.
5. Comfort
Compared to other large resorts in North America, Marmot Basin seldom has to deal with huge crowds of people. There is so much terrain here that you will spend way less time in line-ups and more time out on the slopes.
For more information on Marmot Basin, visit their website at http://www.skimarmot.com/home.html.
Congratulations to Caroline Sledz who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Marmot Basin. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Big thank you to the Sawridge Inn and Conference Centre, Jasper for providing my accommodations during my visit to Marmot Basin.
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of Marmot Basin become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
March 17, 2010
Lake Louise Ski Area
The Lake Louise Ski Area (LLSA) is located about 2 hours from Calgary in beautiful Lake Louise, AB. It is one of the largest ski areas in North America with over 4,200 skiable acres and 3,250 feet of vertical! They have a total of 9 lifts including 1 express gondola, 1 6-pack express, 3 quad chairs, 1 triple chair, 1 expert platter, 1 T-bar and 1 magic carpet. There are 139 marked trails at LLSA plus the bowls along the back of the mountain. Their terrain is vast and varied with a breakdown of 25% beginner, 45% intermediate and 30% expert. Click here to see trail maps for LLSA.
There is something for everyone at this resort. Beginners and intermediate skiers can enjoy the gentle slopes and long cruising runs while experts can explore more challenging terrain through the endless chutes, glades, gullies and remote bowls. LLSA also provides amazing scenery and spectacular views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains at every turn.
What you may not know about Lake Louise Ski Area
Skiing at such a large mountain can be quite intimidating, especially if you have never been there before and don’t know your way around. Operators at LLSA are aware of this and have implemented a program called “Ski Friends” which provides complimentary guided tours of the mountain to the public. “Ski Friends” runs daily at 10am and 1:15pm.
There are at least one green, blue and black run leading from the top of every chairlift at LLSA. This is great for beginner and intermediate skiers since they don’t have to be worried about getting to the top of a chair and having to head down terrain that is too difficult for them. Skiers can relax and hop onto any lift knowing that they will be able to find terrain that is suitable to their ability on the way down.
The LLSA consistently gets early snowfalls and dependable temperatures and is always one of the first to open in North America and last to close. Their ski season usually runs from early November until early May, a full 6 months!
What’s new at Lake Louise Ski Area
As part of LLSA’s commitment to exceptional customer service, they have reduced their season ticket rates for the 2009-2010 season by 15%. They also keep their daily lift ticket prices the same for every day of the season, no more holiday peak pricing!
The LLSA was awarded the WestJet Up! Magazine 2009 Value Award. Value awards are chosen by thousands of Up! Readers and the award is given to destinations that provide the best combinations of unique and high quality experiences with excellent value.
Top 5 reasons to visit Lake Louise Ski Area
1. 3 distinct day lodges
LLSA has 3 day lodges and 7 food/beverage options. The day lodges are located strategically throughout the ski area, so food and shelter are always close by.
2. Amazing scenery
There are spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains everywhere you look. LLSA is consistently voted #1 in the world for its rugged beauty.
3. Lift capacity
There are nine lifts at Louise, seven of which provide at vertical drop of at least 1,230 vertical feet. As a result, you’ll spend more time on the snow and less time in line-ups!
4. Something for everyone
LLSA caters to all ages and abilities with novice, intermediate and advanced runs leading from every chair. This enables families and groups of varying levels to enjoy the whole mountain together. They also have a great learn to ski area as well as a terrain park with tons of features for all abilities.
5. Events
There are always tons of events going on at LLSA from torchlight dinners to rails jams to spring music sessions. These events are ongoing throughout the season and contribute extensively to the overall experience of what LLSA has to offer. Click here to see an events calendar for Louise.
For more information on the Lake Louise Ski Area, visit their website at http://www.skilouise.com/
Congratulations to Peter Lauch who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Lake Louise Ski Area. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here!
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of the Lake Louise Ski Area become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
March 14, 2010
Nakiska
Located only 1 hour from Calgary, AB, Nakiska is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in beautiful Kananaskis country. It has 3 high speed quad chairs, 1 fixed grip double chair and 2 magic carpets (one of which is the longest in Alberta!). Nakiska boasts 2,555 feet of vertical and a total of 64 marked trails that break down into 16% beginner, 70% intermediate and 14% advanced.
Nakiska was home to the 1988 Winter Olympic Alpine events and today, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy Olympic-length runs that are groomed to perfection. It is a family friendly resort with a gentle learn-to-ski area and an awesome ski school. Nakiska hosts the largest ski club in Alberta and many of our Canadian Olympic athletes train here as well. They also play host to numerous school groups in the surrounding area which provides a great opportunity to get our children and youth out of the slopes.
What you may not know about Nakiska
Nakiska has some of the longest, best groomed runs in Alberta. They provide seamless corduroy grooming which are great for cruisers that wants to work on their turns. Click here to see a trail map of Nakiska.
Nakiska is the official training facility for Alpine Canada. Many of our Canadian athletes that participated in the 2010 games in Vancouver train at Nakiska on a full time basis.
They are hosting the Canadian National Championships from March 22-28. Olympic caliber athletes from all over the world will be competing in this event.
What’s new at Nakiska?
New this year at Nakiska is the Gold Chair Express Lift. This lift replaces the old fixed grip triple chair and gets you up to the top in less than 5 minutes! Click here for more info on the Gold Chair Express Lift.
This year Nakisa has undergone numerous trail improvements which has enhanced the skiing experience for guests and created vital training conditions for ski racers. They also created the “Monster Glades” area which provides more access to gladed terrain with the widening of trails and increased runs in the trees. Click here for more info on trail improvements.
Nakiska’s snowmaking abilities have been enhanced by 40%. They are aiming to provide more snow coverage in variable snow conditions during early season than ever before. They now have the largest snowmaking system in Alberta with a total of 160 snowmaking guns! Click here for some stats on snowmaking at Nakiska.
The day lodge and mid-mountain lodge have undergone several renovations which improve visit quality for guests. The day lodge has a new roof, deck, washrooms and floors while the Finish Line Lounge upstairs has been completely refurbished with new flat screen tv’s, chairs and tables.
Top 5 reasons to visit Nakiska
1. Scenery
It doesn’t get any more beautiful than Alberta’s Kananaskis country. Nakiska provides breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains whether you are in the village, riding up the chair or at the top of the mountain.
2. Proximity
Nakiska is Calgary’s closest mountain resort. At 83 kilometers from Calgary’s city limits, it is less than an hour’s drive away. Simply head west on Hwy 1, then south on Hwy 40 and you’ll be enjoying the slopes in no time. Click here for directions to Nakiska.
3. Ski School
Nakiska offers a wide range of ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and abilities. They have group and private lessons, learn to ski programs and have even incorporated multi-week programs for the 2009/2010 season. For more information on Nakiska’s Ski School, click here.
4. Events
There are always tons of events going on at Nakiska. From Olympic caliber events to ladies day ski trips to spring fiestas, Nakiska provides great events and entertainment for all ages. Click here to see an events calendar for Nakiska.
5. Ski and stay packages
Nakiska offers a wide variety of ski and stay packages. They have heli tours, family packages, reduced lifts and a wide variety of hotels and accommodations to choose from. Click here to see what Nakiska has offer and book your ski getaway now!
Congratulations to Vladimir Alexeev who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Nakiska. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of the Nakiska become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
March 8, 2010
TawatinawValley
The hill at Tawatinaw Valley is located only 1 hour north of Edmonton and spreads over 140 scenic acres. It has 3 T-bars, 1 rope tow and 24 trails for all ages and abilities. The breakdown of the terrain is 30% green, 55% blue and 15% black which accommodates beginner and advanced skiers alike. Click here to see a trail map of Tawatinaw Valley. It was established in 1967 for Canada’s Centennial and has remained in operation ever since. Over the last 40 years, the hill has undergone some major expansions to meet the needs of snow enthusiasts.
Tawatinaw Valley caters to every ability of skier and snowboarder and is a great place for families to spend the day. They have gullies, ravines, open hills and gentle slopes which provide a wide variety for guests to enjoy. They also have a large, wide open bunny hill with a rope which provides beginners with a comfortable atmosphere to learn in.
What you may not know about Tawatinaw Valley
Tawatinaw Valley’s hours of operation are weekends and holidays from 10-4pm but they also take school programs in during the week. When large school programs come in, they often open up the hill to the public as well. For more information on School programs and hours of operation click here.
Just because you’re not seeing snow on the hills in town doesn’t mean you can’t come out for a ski! Tawatinaw Valley has an elaborate snow making system which enables them to stay open long after the snow has stopped falling. For current snow conditions at Tawatinaw click here.
They have a huge terrain park and superpipe! For those who love the freestyle scene, Tawatinaw Valley is a dream come true. They have a large terrain park with tons of rails, boxes and jumps that tailor to all ages and abilities and they also have a massive superpipe which is 1 of only 2 superpipes found in Alberta!
Ski for Free! As of March 1, if you purchase next year’s seasons pass you can ski for free for the rest of this season! For more details on this promotion or to purchase your seasons pass click here.
Top 5 reasons to visit Tawatinaw Valley
1. Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Tawatinaw Valley is truly remarkable. Everybody knows each other by name and it is easy to see that they are a tightly knit community. The staff here are friendly and super passionate about providing positive customer experiences to guests. Parents feel comfortable dropping their kids off here for the day knowing that they will be in good hands which compliments the reliability of the staff and members of the community.
2. Terrain Park & Superpipe
The terrain park and superpipe at Tawatinaw Valley are a huge attraction and it is easy to see just how popular they are when you’re out on the hill. Tons of people simply ride back and forth from the T-bar to the park hitting jumps, rails and boxes all day long. The superpipe has also become a popular spot since it is 1 of only 2 superpipes in Alberta!
3. Events
Tawatinaw Valley hosts numerous events throughout the winter ranging from Family Day races to alpine races to slopestyle events. If you haven’t had the chance to check any out, click here for info on upcoming events.
4. Cross Country Trails
There are 25 km’s of scenic cross country terrain at Tawatinaw Valley and they accommodate both classic and skate style skiing. The cross country trails can be accessed via the upper parking lot but be sure to first stop by the ski centre to purchase your day or seasons pass. For more info on X-country skiing at Tawatinaw Valley click here.
5. Ski School
Certified instructors at Tawatinaw Valley provide both skiing and snowboarding lessons for all ages and abilities. You can choose between group or private lessons or even sign up for a Discover Skiing/Snowboarding package. The Discover programs include a lift ticket, full rentals and an hour lesson with an instructor. Click here for more information on the Tawatinaw Valley Ski School.
Congratulations to Colby Hansen who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Tawatinaw Valley. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of the Tawatinaw Valley become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
March 3, 2010
Fairview Ski Hill
The ski hill at Fairview has a vast variety of terrain and is easily accessible to residents of Northern Alberta. The hill is only a 20 minute drive from the town of Fairview and only a 1 ½ hour drive from Grande Prairie. It has a total of 4 lifts including 1 Tbar, 2 platter lifts and 1 rope tow. Its vertical feet totals at 505 ft. and they have 15 trails that accommodate every ability of skier or snowboarder.
Fairview ski hill is managed by a board of directors and has huge support from the local community and community businesses. It has seen generation after generation learn to ski at this resort and later on end up coming out to help out with hill management. Their most frequent guests are residents from local towns such as Fairview, Hines Creek, Rycroft, Spirit River and the many local farming communities. They cater mostly to local families but also tailor their hours and operations to the schedules of local schools.
What you may not know about Fairview Ski Hill
The Fairview ski hill’s hours of operation are Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-7pm but it is also open on Wednesday nights from 6-9pm for night skiing. They also open up the ski hill on days when local school kids have the day off so they can come out and enjoy a day on the slopes.
Every family day weekend, the ski hill holds a wide variety of events for the public to enjoy. They have races that are divided into age groups and categories and it is their busiest day of the year. Make sure to come check it out next Family Day Weekend!
Top 5 reasons to visit Fairview Ski Hill
1. Terrain Park
This year the terrain park at Fairview has been expanded in a huge way. They have about 10 features which include a variety of jumps and rails that range from beginner to expert ability. It is a great park for freestyle enthusiasts but remember that helmets are mandatory when riding in the park.
2. Atmoshpere
This hill is extremely community oriented and it is obvious that they are a tightly knit community. Parents often drop their kids off here for the day knowing that their children are in good hands and are safe to spend the day on their own.
3. Variety
There is a wide variety of terrain here that is ideal for any age and ability. They have a great bunny hill with a rope tow that makes learning to ski or snowboard very comfortable. The runs leading off the platter lifts are ideal for the intermediate athlete and they even have some steep, aggressive runs off of the Tbar that cater to the advanced.
4. Amenities
The Fairview ski hill has everything you would need for an enjoyable day on the slopes. They have a full rental shop for those who don’t have their own gear and a cafeteria with great prices and a wide variety of lunch time choices. There are also lessons available if you’d like to polish up your skills or want to learn for the first time.
5. Scenery
From the top of the Fairview ski hill you can enjoy some breathtaking views of the Peace Country and the Dunvegan Valley. On a sunny day you can see for miles making it a great destination ski area in Northern Alberta.
Congratulations to Joe Tye who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Fairview Ski Hill. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Big thanks to Quality Inn Grande Prairie for providing my accommodations during my visit to Fairview Ski Hill.
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
For more information on the Fairview Ski Hill, check out their website at www.skifairview.com.
To view more pictures of the Fairview Ski Hill become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
March 2, 2010
Spring Lake Ski Hill
The Spring Lake Ski Hill is located only 10 minutes away from Hythe, Beaverlodge and LaGlace, AB and only 1 hour from Grande Prairie. It runs 1 T-bar and has a total of 3 trails which range from beginner to intermediate. This hill is operated by a small group of volunteers from the Valhalla Parent Council that commit their weekends to running the T-bar, cafeteria and rental shop. Their most frequent guests are local families since it is a great atmosphere to spend the day and a great place to learn to ski or snowboard.
What you may not know about Spring Lake Ski Hill
The Spring Lake Ski Hill Association has been in operation for 20 years and is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm. The T-bar was installed in 1990 which can handle up to 418 people per hour and in 1994 they also purchased a snowcat groomer.
There is a full recreation area at Spring Lake including a full campground, cross country trails, snowshoeing and ice fishing. Click here for more information on Spring Lake Recreational options.
The Spring Lake Ski Hill has a Facebook Fan page! Click here to become a fan and keep up to date with events at the hill.
Don’t have your own equipment? Not to worry, Spring Lake has a full rental shop with 100 sets of skis, 40 snowboards and a bunch of snow blades. They also have interact and credit card capabilities at the hill so you don’t have to worry about taking out cash before you get here.
Top 5 reasons to visit Spring Lake Ski Hill
1. Prices
The prices at Spring Lake are very reasonable. A family seasons pass is only $250, an adult day ticket is $20 and an adult full package rental is only $15. It makes for an inexpensive way to learn to ski and a great day out on the slopes!
2. School & group rates
The ski hill will book schools and groups during the week with a booking minimum of 20 people. The chalet is also available for bookings in the summer and winter for weddings, family reunions, corporate functions or any other type of event. For more information on bookings at Spring Lake Ski Hill call 780.356.3045.
3. Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Spring Lake ski hill is super welcoming and remarkably comfortable. The volunteers are a tightly knit community that love spending their weekends out at the hill and interacting with guests.
4. Homemade food
They operate a full cafeteria at the hill and make super tasty fresh food! Even people that don’t feel like skiing will stop by to enjoy some lunch and a fresh piece of pie for dessert!
5. Great “learn to ski” area
All the trails at Spring Lake are classified as either beginner or intermediate. The majority of the hill is gently sloped which provides ideal conditions for those learning how to ski or snowboard.
Congratulations to Jolene Beck who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Spring Lake Ski Hill. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Big thanks to Quality Inn Grande Prairie for providing my accommodations during my visit to Spring Lake Ski Hill.
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of the Spring Lake Ski Hill become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
February 27, 2010
Nitehawk Ski Hill
The Nitehawk Ski Hill is located only 10 minutes away from Grande Prairie, AB and has a wide variety of recreational opportunities. The hill runs 1 triple chairlift, 1 platter lift and 1 magic carpet. There are 12 total trails at Nitehawk and it boasts 525 vertical feet.
Nitehawk generally tailors to families but also draws a hefty youth population with its elaborate terrain park and huge half-pipe. They also host a wide variety of clubs including snowboard club, the Northern Extreme Freestyle Team, the Nitehawk Alpine Ski Team and the Peace Country Luge Association. Visit their website at www.gonitehawk.com for more information on these clubs.
What’s new at Nitehawk?
This year Nitehawk developed a massive half pipe that is very popular among guests and gets a ton of use with the approach of the 2010 Arctic Winter Games.
They have added a 4000 square foot expansion to the chalet which has opened up much more room for guests and makes a day visit to Nitehawk extremely welcoming and comfortable.
Nitehawk was granted $500,000 from the provincial government that was put towards their snowmaking capabilities. They rely mostly on man-made snow but the quality of the snow does not suffer as it still feels soft and fluffy under your feet.
What you may not know about Nitehawk
From March 6-13, Nitehawk Ski Hill will be hosting the 2010 Arctic Winter Games. Events at the games include Slope Style, Giant Slalom, Moguls, Boarder Cross, Half Pipe, Big Air, Banked Slalom and Parallel Slalom. The ski hill is still open to the public during this time so be sure to come and check out some of the events! For more information on the Arctic Winter Games at Nitehawk, click here.
Love tobogganing? Well you're in luck because Nitehawk now has a tube park! This season it was open to school groups only but next year they plan on opening it up to the public and building a carpet lift that will conveniently bring you back up the hill.
The Nitehawk recreation area has tons of things to do in the summer. They have a water ramp, aerial skiing training facility as well as a ton of mountain bike trails and a year round RV park. For more information on summer recreation at Nitehawk click here.
Top 5 reasons to visit Nitehawk Ski Hill
1. Snow School
Whether you want to learn how to ski or snowboard for the first time or want to hone your skills in the terrain park, Nitehawk has professionally trained staff that can teach you the skills you’ll need to succeed. For more information on the Nitehawk Snow School click here.
2. Terrain
Nitehawk has a wide variety of terrain that is suitable to skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. They have a great learn to ski area with a carpet lift and numerous groomed runs for the intermediate cruiser. They have also developed a huge half pipe and multi-feature Terrain Park for those who are into the freestyle scene.
3. Proximity
Nitehawk is located only 10 minutes from Grande Prairie which makes it super accessible for GP residents. It is also very reachable for the many surrounding towns and has become a destination area for the Peace Country. Click here for Nitehawk location and trail maps.
4. Amenities
The Nitehawk ski hill has all the same amenities and facilities you would find at a big mountain resort. They have a huge chalet, a full rental shop, a ski school, a lounge and a ski patrol. You don’t need to travel to the Rocky Mountains to enjoy a good day out on the slopes, it's only minutes away!
5. Events
There are always a ton of entertaining events going on at this resort. From school winter carnivals to slope style events to rail jams to the 2010 Arctic Winter Games, Nitehawk hosts great events that are fun to be a part of! For an event calendar at Nitehawk click here.
Congratulations to William McKinlay who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Nitehawk Ski Hill. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here!
Big thanks to Quality Inn Grande Prairie for providing my accommodations during my visit to Nitehawk Ski Hill. 
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative.
To view more pictures of the Nitehawk Ski Hill become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
February 26, 2010
Little Smoky Ski Hill
The Little Smoky Ski Hill is located roughly 40 kilometers from Valleyview, AB. It has 1 main T-bar and 2 handle tows (1 of which is used in the Tube Park). They have a total of 10 runs which break down into 3 green, 2 blue and 5 black. There is a great mixture of terrain here as there are trails for all ages and abilities.
This hill generally tailors to local families and those learning how to ski but there is something for everyone at this resort. They also host numerous school programs each week which is a great initiative to get kids of all ages out skiing and snowboarding.
What’s new at Little Smoky Ski Hill?
New this year at Little Smoky Ski Hill is a Tube Park! The tube park has 4 lanes with lots of different tubes and it even has a handle tow to bring you back up the hill!
This year, operators have also cleared off a skating rink that is just across the parking lot and super accessible. If you don’t feel like skiing or snowboarding, get some friends together and get a shinny game going!
What you may not know about Little Smoky Ski Hill
The rental shop at Little Smoky does full repairs and tunes on skis and snowboards. Got some deep gashes in your board or need a wax on your skis? Bring it in and they’ll do it right! Click here for more info on rentals and rates.
This is a great learn to ski area. They have a gently sloped bunny hill with a slow handle tow which makes it super easy for those learning the sport. Once you’ve conquered the bunny hill, there are some easy going green runs that will get you down to the T-bar as well.
They have early bird rates on seasons passes! If you purchase your seasons lift, rental or tubing passes before December 20 you get a significant discount. Remember this for next year when thinking about buying a seasons pass to Little Smoky Ski Hill.
Not seeing any snow on the hills? That doesn’t matter because Little Smoky Ski Hill makes their own snow. Just because you’re not seeing much snow on the ground doesn’t mean you can’t spend a day on the slopes!
Top 5 reasons to visit Little Smoky Ski Hill
1. Group bookings
Little Smoky offer great rates on group bookings for the ski hill and the tube park. For more information click here or contact Clem @ 780.837.8144.
2. Snow quality
Operators at this hill make snow in the fall and it holds until early spring. The snow is super soft and the grooming is seamless and wicked for cruising! Click here for the daily snow report at Little Smoky.
3. Tube Park
If you love going tobogganing but hate walking back up, Little Smoky has the solution! They have 100 colorful tubes, 4 runs to choose from and a handle tow that will bring you back up the hill!
4. Terrain Park
The terrain park at Little Smoky has a wide variety of jumps and rails for all ages and abilities. The park can be a super fun time but remember, helmets are mandatory.
5. Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere at Little Smoky Ski Hill is pleasant and enjoyable. The staff are all very friendly and helpful and it is a great place to hang out for the day.
Congratulations to Eileen Billard who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Little Smoky Ski Hill. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Big thanks to Quality Inn Grande Prairie for providing my accommodations during my visit to Little Smoky Ski Hill. 
Also a big thank you to Avalanche Ski Wear for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of the Little Smoky Ski Hill become a fan of Ski Alberta on Facebook.
February 23, 2010
Manning Ski Hill
The Manning Ski Hill is located only 10 minutes outside of Manning, AB and is a great way to spend a day out on the snow. It has 1 T-bar that runs straight up the middle with a total of 5 trails that lead from the top. On top of that it also offers a ton of different runs through the trees for those looking to explore.
Manning Ski Hill is arguably one of the most tightly knit, family oriented, small town ski clubs I have visited. It is locally operated by volunteers and board members and is a great hill for all ages and abilities. It has a gently sloped bunny hill for new skiers but also incorporates some steeper funs for the more experienced.
What you may not know about Manning Ski Hill
It’s open! The Manning Ski Hill was closed down for about 8 years but was re-opened last winter when they replaced the tow rope with a T-bar lift. The T-bar is much easier to ride and it gets you up the hill in a hurry. The Manning Ski Hill is open on weekends and holidays from 11-4pm for those who want to come and check it out!
Since the ski hill faces away from the sun during the day, Manning Ski Hill gets an extra long ski season. The snow holds very well as a result of its location and the spring skiing is awesome!
Next year, volunteers and board members will be implementing night skiing on Wednesday nights! This is a great chance to get out and check out the hill if you’re simply too busy to make it out on the weekend.
The Manning Ski Hill does not sell food out of the chalet but if you’re lucky, you can get in on the lunch time BBQ action which includes hot dogs, hamburgers and whatever else you want to bring. There’s nothing better than Bar B Qing in the middle of the winter!
Top 5 reasons to visit Manning Ski Hill
1. Proximity
Being only 10 minutes from the town of Manning, AB makes this ski hill super easy to get to. You just have to follow the highway out of town and follow the signs down a few dirt roads and you’re there.
2. Great snow
Since the hill faces away from the sun, the conditions of the snow remain good all winter long and the snow holds very long into the spring which makes for great spring skiing.
3. Atmosphere
The Manning Ski Hill has a classic small town Northern Alberta feel. Everyone that walks through the door is greeted by name and it is easy to see that they are a tightly knit skiing community.
4. Price
For a day of recreation and fun, the prices at Manning Ski Hill are hard to beat. A full day lift ticket costs you only $15 and a full day rentals will run you only $20.
5. Rentals
Don’t have your own gear? No problem. The hill at Manning has a wide variety of ski and snowboard gear, most of which are brand new, for you to try out. At only $20 for a full day rental, the cost for quality is pretty hard to beat.
Congratulations to Zach Lorencz who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home 2 full day lift tickets to Manning Ski Hill. Want a chance to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Big thanks to Sawridge Inn and Conference Centre, Peace River for providing my accommodations during my visit to Manning Ski Hill. 
Also a big thank you to “Avalanche Ski Wear” for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of Manning Ski Hill, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 24, 2010
Misery Mountain Ski Hill
Looking for a place to ski or ride that is close to home? For residents of Peace River it doesn’t get any closer to home than this. The Misery Mountain Ski Hill is located right in the heart of Peace River, in the majestic Northern Alberta, Peace River Valley. This hill has 2 lifts, both T-bars and a total of 19 trails. The breakdown of the terrain is 25% beginner, 30% intermediate and 45% advanced which provides terrain for all ages and abilities.
Misery Mountain caters mostly to families by providing a family friendly atmosphere and great introductory terrain. They are visited mostly by locals due to its central location but they also attract guests from the many surrounding cities and towns.
What you may not know about Misery Mountain
A new chalet was built here about 4 years ago that can accommodate a ton of people. It has a wide open eating area and also has a cafeteria, a rental shop and a guest services booth all built into one.
They also have a racing program here called the Mighty Peace Alpine Racers who travel all around Alberta competing in Alpine Racing events. For more info on this program click here.
Operators at Misery Mountain have implemented 2 programs called “Babes on Boards” and “Chicks on Sticks”. The programs were put in place to give women the opportunity to come out to the hill, learn to ski or board and make an evening out of it. The cost is only $10 per person and you receive 1 ½ hours of lessons from an instructor. It runs on Friday nights at 6:30 pm and is a great way to get out of the house and work on your skills.
On February 21, a local oil company called KUDU Industries kindly offered to front the bill for EVERYBODY’s rentals and lift tickets at Misery Mountain. All they asked in return was that you provide a minimum donation of $2 or a food donation in support of the Haiti Relief Fund.
Top 5 reasons to visit Misery Mountain Ski Hill
1. Proximity
Misery Mountain, without a doubt, it one of the most accessible ski hills you will find in Alberta. It is a short commute from anywhere in Peace River but also accommodates travelers from all over Northern Alberta. Click here for location details.
2. Family Atmosphere
The atmosphere at this resort is friendly and comfortable. The staff are super helpful and the smiles on people’s faces are a direct reflection of how much fun it is to spend time at Misery Mountain.
3. There’s something for everyone
Misery Mountain boasts all the same amenities and facilities you would find at a large mountain resort, simply on a smaller scale. They have a cafeteria, rental shop, ski school and ski patrol. The terrain ranges from beginner to advanced and promises to keep any level of skier or snowboarder busy all day long. Click here for more info on amenities at Misery Mountain.
4. Scenery
From the top of the hill there are some spectacular views of the town and the Peace River Valley. On a sunny day you can see for miles and miles which contributes to the overall experience of the resort.
5. Events
There are numerous events going on at Misery Mountain on a weekly basis. From alpine races to school bookings to rail jams, there are always great events being hosted here. For more information on events at Misery Mountain click here.
Congratulations to Josee Boulianne who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home 2 full day lift tickets to Misery Mountain. Want to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here! 
Big thanks to Sawridge Inn and Conference Centre, Peace River for providing my accommodations during my visit to Misery Mountain. 
Also a big thank you to “Avalanche Ski Wear” for their contributions to our marketing initiative.
To view more pictures of Misery Mountain, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 21, 2010
Whispering Pines Ski Hill
The Whispering Pines Ski Hill is located only 20 minutes from Worsley, AB in the beautiful Clear Hills. It was established in 1984 as a small resort and has now expanded into a great little hill with a triple chair, a Tbar and a handle tow. It has a total of 18 super unique runs that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. The trails here offer cruising groomers, rolling hills, tree runs and an excellent learn to ski bunny hill.
Whispering Pines is a family friendly resort that self proclaims itself as “Northern Alberta’s best kept secret.” It is known for its great natural snow and amazing homemade food. They also host numerous school programs during the week to accommodate local schools in the area.
What you may not know about Whispering Pines
Last season the main T-bar was replaced with a Doppelmayr triple chair that takes you right to the top of the hill. This is a great option for newer skiers or boarders that may not yet have the ability to comfortably ride up the T-bar. It is also a great option for those who simply want to relax on the way back up!
Whispering Pines has all the same amenities you would find at a mountain resort. They have an amazing chalet with a full cafeteria, a rental shop, a ski and snowboard school and of course, awesome snow. Click here to check out what Whispering Pines has to offer.
If you’re not keen on downhill skiing, try the cross country trails. The trails here start from the lodge and lead you into the amazing forests of the Clear Hills. They are very scenic and a great workout!
Whispering Pines relies solely on natural snow. The snow is soft and fluffy under your feet which provides for effortless and satisfying turns. The grooming here is excellent and all runs and maintained at a super high standard.
Cinnamon Buns! The homemade cinnamon buns from the cafeteria at Whispering Pines are hands down the best you will ever eat. At lunch time in the lodge it is easy to see just how popular they are as almost every guest will be indulging in a cinnamon bun dessert. These cinnamon buns are a definite contributor to its title as “Northern Alberta’s best kept secret.”
Top 5 reasons to visit Whispering Pines
1. Terrain
The terrain at Whispering Pines provides something for everyone. It is a great place to learn how to ski but also ideal for those wanting to hone their skills. Click here to see a trail map.
2. Homemade food
Homemade cinnamon buns……enough said!
3. Atmosphere
The overall feel at this hill is friendly, family oriented and comfortable. The staff here are super helpful and are extremely passionate about what they do.
4. Prices
Whispering Pines has reasonable prices both for skiing, rentals and food. An adult day lift ticket will run you only $22 and a rental ski package costs only $16 for the day. Even cafeteria food here is reasonably priced, costing roughly half of what you would pay at a large mountain resort. Click here for rates at Whispering Pines.
5. Group bookings
Operators will open up the ski hill if you provide a group of 12 or more that want to ski for the day. They cater to schools, youth groups, birthday parties etc. For more info on group bookings click here.
Congratulations to Don Bean who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home 2 full day lift tickets to Whispering Pines. Want to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here to Enter! 
Big thanks to “Avalanche Ski Wear” for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of Whispering Pines, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 17, 2010
Mt. Norquay
Since 1926, Mt. Norquay has been an awesome family resort that is located only 10 minutes from Banff. No matter what your ability, Norquay has what you need for a great day of skiing or riding. Mt. Norquay runs 4 chairlifts, 1 magic carpet and 1 rope tow in the tube park. There are 27 cut trails at this resort and the vertical totals at 1650 feet. They are a family focused resort that runs a great learn to ski program as well as a spectacular racing program.
The terrain ranges from gentle beginner runs that provide confidence to newbies, up to breathtaking double black diamond runs that will challenge any expert. The breakdown of the terrain is 20% beginner, 36% Intermediate, 28% advanced and 16% expert. It has great facilities and amenities and is an all around great place to spend a day with family and friends.
Whats new at Mt. Norquay
Mt. Norquay has a tube park! With lift access and four sliding lanes to enjoy, Mt. Norquay is the place for snow tubing. Whether it’s a family activity, a gathering of old friends or a company social, snow tubing at Mt. Norquay creates unique experiences and enjoyable times! For more info on the tube park click here.
You can customize your ski school package. If you get some friends together to take a lesson, operators at Mt. Norquay will customize your lessons so they are convenient for you. For more information on snow school programs click here.
What you may not know about Mt. Norquay
Don’t want to commit to a full day lift ticket? Mt. Norquay sells ‘ski by the hour’ lift passes. This is a great option for families that might want to make a few turns in the morning and hit the tube park in the afternoon or for those who simply aren’t prepared to ski or snowboard for a whole day. Click here for more info on rates and by the hour passes.
Mt. Norquay has night skiing on Wednesdays and Fridays. If you’re super busy during the week and cant seem to make it out on weekends, Mt. Norquay is open from 5-10pm on Wednesday and Friday nights for your enjoyment. For more info on night skiing and hours of operation click here.
This resort in particular hosts a wide variety of events all year round. They just recently hosted the Billabong ‘Flaunt it’ Slopestyle event and every couple of weeks they have been running a Backyard Rail Jam Series. To see a list of monthly events at Mt. Norquay click here.
All 4 chairlifts at Mt. Norquay provide you with a breathtaking view of the town of Banff. There are some truly remarkable views at this resort which adds so much to the overall experience of new and frequent guests alike.
Top 5 reasons to visit Mt. Norquay
1. Proximity
Mt. Norquay is only 10 minutes from Banff and about 1 ½ hours from Calgary. It is a short little jaunt whether you want to ski for a whole day or only a couple of hours.
2. Tube Park
The tube park at Mt. Norquay is one of the only of its kind in Alberta and is a really fun time. If you haven’t had the chance to go tubing here you really should, it will make you feel like a kid again!
3. Events
There are always numerous events going on at Mt. Norquay that will keep you entertained. They average about 3 events per week ranging from masters skiing to slopestyle events. They also book weddings here in the summer. For more info on wedding or event bookings at Mt. Norquay click here.
4. Terrain Park
The terrain park at Mt. Norquay is extremely well designed and has features to accommodate every level and ability. There are several back-to-back lines with tons of fun jib options. To see photos of the terrain park click here.
5. Price Point
Prices at Mt. Norquay are considerate and reasonable. They also offer skiing by the hour passes for those who are not prepared to commit to a full day on the slopes. Click here to see a price chart for Mt. Norquay.
Congratulations to Eduardo Watman who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home 2 full day lift tickets to Mt. Norquay. Want to win a set of his and her skis and a $1000 shopping spree? Click here to enter! 
Big thanks to “A Banff Boutique Inn” for providing my accommodations during my visit to Mt. Norquay. Also a big thank you to “Avalanche Ski Wear” for their contributions to our marketing initiative.
To view more pictures of Mt. Norquay, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 17, 2010
Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort
The Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort does not need much of an introduction as it is very well known to Western Canadians. It is located in Banff National Park, 135 kms west of the Calgary international airport and 8 kms west of Banff on the Trans Canada Highway #1. There are 12 total lifts which include one 8-passenger high speed gondola, 7 quad chairs, 1 triple, 1 double and 2 magic carpet tows. There are 107 named runs at Sunshine Village and it’s vertical rise totals 3,514 vertical feet. For more mountain statistics for Sunshine Village click here.
Sunshine Village caters to families and skiers/snowboarders of all ages and abilities. They have an exceptional ski-school program and the Tiny Tigers daycare takes care of kids as young as 19 months. They also have a wide variety of terrain ranging double blacks like Delirium Dive to green cruising runs off of the Strawberry Chair. The run breakdown is 20% Beginner, 55% Intermediate and 25% Expert which reiterates the fact that there is something for everyone.
What’s new at Sunshine Village
The brand new West Wing of the Sunshine Mountain Lodge features eco-luxury in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. As Banff’s only ski-in, ski-out accommodations, this 84-room lodge offers unique views and Banff’s premier lodging experience. For more information on the Sunshine Mountain Lodge click here.
Sunshine Village has purchased a new high-speed quad lift from the Vancouver Olympic Committee, giving the resort a lasting legacy from the 2010 Games. The lift will replace the Strawberry triple chair, and will be up and running for the beginning of the 2010-’11 season.
What you may not know about Sunshine Village
This resort is home to some of Canada’s best snow – it has 3,358 acres of skiable terrain and relies almost entirely on natural snow. The village is situated at 7,200 feet above sea level, high in the Canadian Rockies which can only be accessed via the high-speed gondola.
Sunshine Village is spread across three mountains, and offers the unique experience of being able to visit two provinces – Alberta and British Columbia – in one run. The Continental Divide chair crosses into B.C. and back into Alberta before you unload.
The skiing and snowboarding season here is super long. This year, they opened on November 11, 2009 and won’t shut down until May 24, 2010 with the annual Sunshine Slush Cup Party.
The Rogers Terrain Park is the area’s largest, with more than 50 park features on 12 acres of snow.
Top 5 reasons to visit Sunshine Village
1. They have the longest non-glacial skiing and snowboarding season in North America running from November until late May.
2. The new West Wing of Sunshine Mountain Lodge is the only ski-in/ski-out accommodations in Banff
3. The exceptional elevation of the resort ensures champagne powder conditions all season long
4. Being in the heart of Canada’s oldest national park creates a unique natural experience and provides amazing scenery for guests
5. It is a family friendly resort with a broad range of terrain suited to every ability level
To learn more about Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard resort, visit their website at http://skibanff.com/.
Congratulations to Matt Hansen who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home 2 full day lift tickets to Sunshine Village. Big thanks to “A Banff Boutique Inn” for providing my accommodations during my visit to Sunshine Village. Also a big thank you to “Avalanche Ski Wear” for their contributions to our marketing initiative. 
To view more pictures of Sunshine Village, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 10, 2010
Vista Ridge
For residents of Fort McMurray that are looking for an awesome day on the slopes, Vista Ridge is your answer. Located only 15 kilometers south of the city, Vista Ridge has 1 quad chair, 2 carpet lifts and a total of 6 runs. It is a family oriented hill with a great learn to ski program and terrain for all ages and abilities. It is an expanding facility in a town that is growing constantly and is an excellent recreational option for those who reside in Fort McMurray.
What you may not know about Vista Ridge
They have a tube park! The tube park at Vista Ridge will make you feel like a kid again. It has 5 lanes of tubing possibilities down a slope that is super fun to ride. A snow cat also travels back and forth constantly picking people up at the day lodge and dropping them off at the tube park which makes it extremely easy to get to. Also new this year is a 600 foot carpet lift that returns you to the top in a leisurely fashion so you don’t have to worry about using a handle tow on the way back up. They also book events and staff parties so get some people together and head out for the day! Click here for more info on the tube park.
Vista Ridge has a new chalet which is now up and running. They have a full day lodge area, rental shop and cafeteria and new additions include the Clearwater Lounge and the Spruce Valley Conference Room. It is a beautiful lodge that hosts a great atmosphere.
Need something to do on a Friday night? Vista Ridge has night skiing under the lights. It’s a great way to spend an evening with family and friends and a great way to start your weekend!
The coolest thing about Vista Ridge is the fact that the whole hill is a terrain park. There are numerous park features on all of the 6 runs that vary from beginner to advanced. This is a great setup for families since they can ride down the same trail, the kids will hit the park features and mom/dad will make their turns, and they can ride back up the lift together! This dynamic provides the best of both worlds since families can actually ski together on the same runs rather than parting ways in the morning while the kids head off to the terrain park for the day.
Top 5 reasons to visit Vista Ridge
1. Accessibility
Being only 15 kilometers south of Fort McMurray makes Vista Ridge an easy commute for a day of skiing or snowboarding. There are also buses that run from the city to the hill on weekends which is convenient for those who may not have their own means of transportation. Click here for more information on how to get to Vista Ridge.
2. Tube Park
The tube park is a great option for the those who may not want to attempt skiing or snowboarding. That being said, even if you do ski or snowboard, the tube park is a still a ton of fun! It now has a carpet lift as well which makes getting back up the hill a simple task.
3. Ski School
Vista Ridge offers a wide variety of private and group lessons to people of all ages and abilities. The instructors are highly trained and truly love what they do. For more information on lessons at vista ridge click here.
4. Terrain Park
There is not 1 designated terrain park at Vista Ridge, the park features are located all over the hill. It adds a great dynamic to the resort since families can ski together and you’re not faced with all the clutter that comes along with only operating 1 terrain park.
5. There’s something for everyone
The unique thing about Vista Ridge is that you don’t have to be an advanced skier or snowboarder to come here. They have beginner terrain for those who are just learning and a tube park for those who may not want to try at all. All in all it is a great recreational facility that is close and convenient to Fort McMurray.
Congratulations to Shauni Avery and Sheldon Letcher who were our Go Big! Contest winners and each took home a full day lift ticket to Vista Ridge. Also a big thanks to the Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre, Fort McMurray for providing my accommodations during my visit to Vista Ridge.
To view more pictures of Vista Ridge, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 9, 2010
Long Lake Ski Area
Where lift lines are short and smiles are contagious! Located only 10 minutes south of Boyle, AB, the Long Lake Ski Area boasts awesome natural snow and a great family atmosphere. It runs 1 T-bar, 1 tow rope and the majority of its 14 runs are tailored towards intermediate skiers and snowboarders. This resort caters mostly to families and those learning to ski or board but also hosts school programs during the week and the “Crazy Moose” programs on the weekends.
What you may not know about Long Lake Ski Area
They have a terrain park! The terrain park here has beginner, intermediate and advanced level features and has enough material to keep you busy all day long. It even has an old canoe buried in the snow that you can hop onto!
You can also book private functions at the Long Lake Ski Area. If you want to run an event, host a staff party etc., call 1-866-576-2161 for more details.
Upcoming events at Long Lake Ski Area
February 11-15 is SNOWFEST!
Feb 11th – Snow Critter building contest
Feb 12th – Crazy Cardboard Sled Races (only cardboard, tape and paint are allowed to build
your sled)
Feb 13th – Fanta-Ski costume contest and Fun Races
Feb 14th – Snow Church @ 9am and Sweetheart Ski (2 for 1 lifts, $1 from every lift ticket
goes to the Haiti Relief Fundraiser)
Feb 15th – Family Ski Day & Pancake Breakfast
For more details on SNOW FEST at Long Lake Ski Area call 1-866-576-2161 or visit the website at www.skilonglake.com
Top 5 reasons to visit Long Lake Ski Area
1. Natural Snow
The Long Lake Ski Area does have snowmaking capabilities but they often refrain from making too much in order to provide a more natural feel. The snow quality here is remarkable, you can feel the softness of the snow and you can actually feel the simplicity of getting in and out of your turns.
2. Atmosphere
This ski area is like its own little community. Everyone is super friendly and the overall morale of guests that come here is very high. It is a great place for parents to drop off their kids for the day and know they are in a good and safe environment.
3. No crowds
Even though Long Lake does get a significant amount of skiers and boarders on a regular basis, there are rarely line ups for the lifts, cafeteria or rental shop. Since there are no large cities in the immediate vicinity, Long Lake does not get unbearable amounts of guests which makes it even more special for those who frequent the resort.
4. Amenities/Facilities
The Long Lake Ski Area has everything you need for an all day mountain experience. They have a large chalet, a full rental shop and a cafeteria with an elaborate menu. If you get a chance to head out to this hill, be sure to get a BLT for lunch, it’s amazing! Right next to the ski hill there is also a spot for those who might want to go sledding and tobogganing rather than strapping on the skis. All in all it is a great family environment with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Click here for more info on Long Lake.
5. Terrain Park
The terrain park at Long Lake is awesome for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. It features all kinds of jumps and rails and it even has a canoe buried in the snow! It is a hot commodity right now at the mountain as many riders go back and forth from the lift to the park all day long.
Congratulations to Aimee Livingston who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets to Long Lake Ski Area. Also a big thanks to the Waskatenau Motel for providing my accommodations during my visit to Long Lake Ski Area.
To view more pictures of Long Lake Ski Area, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 7, 2010
Kinosoo Ridge Snow Resort
Kinosoo Ridge Snow Resort is located only 15 kms east of Cold Lake, AB. It has 1 chairlift, 1 T-bar, 1 carpet lift and a total of 10 trails covering 60 acres of land. Most runs at Kinosoo are either green or blue which makes it an excellent resort for beginners and families. That being said, Kinosoo also offers 1 black run as well as a super elaborate terrain park for the more advanced.
This resort also had the honor of hosting the Alberta Winter Games from February 4-7. The games consisted of kids of all ages competing in Alpine Skiing, Freestyle Skiing and Bordercross. The courses were extremely well designed and the atmosphere and vibe at the games was remarkable. To see pictures of the Alberta Winter Games at Kinosoo Ridge, click here and visit us on Facebook.
What’s new at Kinosoo Ridge?
There is a new chalet coming soon! Construction has already begun and the new 16,000 square foot chalet should be ready for next winter. Once complete, operators plan on hosting numerous large scale events all year long. Click here to see some pictures of the new chalet.
Management has invested large amounts of money on snowmaking operations so that the resort can guarantee snow quality and quantity to their guests. Thanks to this, Kinosoo has great snow conditions and flawless corduroy grooming day in and day out.
What you may not know about Kinosoo Ridge
Kinosoo Ridge has a terrain park! Operators are constantly upgrading and re-vamping the terrain park so that parkies can hone their skills each and every time they visit. If you haven’t had the chance to ride this park you need to get there soon!
Kinosoo Ridge also has numerous upcoming promotions and events including a 2 for 1 Valentine special and a Slush Cup in March. Click here to see a calendar of events at Kinosoo Ridge.
Top 5 reasons to visit Kinosoo Ridge Snow Resort
1. Great learn to ski area
The terrain at this resort is ideal for beginner skiers and is a comfortable environment to learn in. They also have lessons and camps, click here for more details.
2. Proximity
Kinosoo Ridge is only 15 kms away from Cold Lake which makes it a very accessible commute. Click here for directions to the resort.
3. Scenery
Being nestled right beside Cold Lake makes for some breathtaking views from the top of Kinosoo Ridge. On a clear day you can see for miles over the lake, it is a truly amazing sight.
4. Atmosphere
The staff and guests at Kinosoo Ridge contribute to an atmosphere that feels comfortable and easy going. The staff are super friendly and will go out of their way to see that you have an enjoyable day. All in all it is a great atmosphere to be a part of.
5. Price
Prices at Kinosoo are affordable and reasonable. A full day lift ticket for an adult will cost you only $21 and coming up on Family Day they have a promotion that enables a family to get full rentals and lift tickets for only $99! Click here to see a full price chart for Kinosoo Ridge.
Congratulations to Clifford Gadwa who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Kinosoo Ridge Snow Resort.
To view more pictures of Kinosoo Ridge Snow Resort, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 5, 2010
Medicine Lodge Ski Area
2 words. “Natural” “Snow”. Medicine Lodge Ski Area is arguably one of the most unique resorts I have seen during my journeys. Since this resort does not man-make snow, they rely completely on mother nature to operate the ski area. That being said, even when they do get new snow, they refrain from doing too much grooming since they are hesitant to take away from the hill’s natural state. I was lucky enough to have gotten some fresh snow the night before my visit to Medicine Lodge and it made for some of the best turns of the year for me.
Medicine Lodge Ski Area is located 11 kms west of Bentley, AB and 15 kms south of Rimbey, AB. They have 1 main Tbar, 2 handle tows, 11 total trails and just under 500 vertical feet. Families and kids are their majority customer which contributes to their friendly, small town atmosphere. Management at Medicine Lodge actually base their operating hours around the school schedule to give kids ample opportunity to get out and ski. They also run school programs during the week and open up the hill to the public on teachers’ ‘Professional Development’ days.
New this year is the “Medicine Lodge Learn to Ski Program”. This program is for those ages 6-10 and runs 3 Saturdays in a row from 10:30-12:30pm. It includes a full day lift pass, full day rentals and 1.5 hours of instruction. For more information on these lessons call 403.350.9411.
What you may not know about Medicine Lodge
Medicine lodge has everything you need for an enjoyable day of skiing. They have a full rental shop, a day lodge, a concession and qualified ski instructors, for those who have never been out before.
The concession does not have a deep fryer! For those who are looking for a healthy alternative to concession food while out on the hill, Medicine Lodge is your answer. They have daily fresh soups and chili if you are seeking a little homemade taste.
Top 5 reasons to visit Medicine Lodge
1. Price
The prices at Medicine Lodge are very affordable. A full day adult lift ticket will cost you only $23 and a seasons’ pass is only $176. Rentals are reasonable as well since a full ski outfit (15 and older) will run you only $22 for a full day. For more information on rates and rentals call 403.748.2025.
2. Friendliness
From the moment you walk in the doors you can feel the friendly atmosphere at Medicine Lodge. Everyone here knows each other and it almost feels like its own small town. Numerous people offered to take me out and show me around the hill and everybody says hello as they walk by. If you haven’t had the chance to be a part of the Medicine Lodge atmosphere then I suggest you do it soon, you won’t regret it!
3. Natural snow
Not everything is groomed. Operators do not groom all terrain at this resort even after a fresh snowfall. They groom only enough area to provide a solid ‘learn to ski’ area and leave the rest of the hill untouched and natural. If you like to ride through powder and loose natural snow then Medicine Lodge Ski Area is the place for you.
4. Location
Medicine Lodge is located very close to several Alberta towns. Red Deer is only 40 minutes away and the towns of Bentley, Rimbey, Sylvan Lake, Ponoka, Rocky Mountain House and Lacombe are all within a reasonable distance of this hill. It provides a great option to residents of these communities that don’t want to make the long journey out to the Rocky Mountains.
5. Rental shop
There is an awesome rental shop here with 110 pairs of skis, 20 snowboards, 130 pairs of ski boots and 110 pairs of snowboard boots. If you haven’t quite committed to purchasing your own gear yet and want to learn before you buy, Medicine lodge has a great rental shop that can get you outfitted and on the mountain in a hurry.
Congratulations to Taryn Heagy who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Medicine Lodge Ski Area. Also a big thank you to Motel 6, Red Deer for providing my accommodation during my visit to Medicine Lodge Ski Area.
To view more pictures of Medicine Lodge Ski Area, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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February 3, 2010
Canyon Ski Area
Canyon Ski Area is easily accessible to residents of Red Deer as it is located only 10 minutes east of the city. Canyon has a total of 13 trails with 1 triple chair, 1 double chair, 2 T-bars and a handle tow. It boasts 164 meters of vertical and has terrain for all ages and abilities. Canyon Ski Area caters mostly to families and they pride themselves on being a family friendly resort. It is also a great option for central Albertans that do not want to make the long journey out to the Rocky Mountains.
On Saturday, January 30, Canyon Ski Area held an event called “Snowfest”. It was a great event and hundreds of people came out for it. There were demo’s from local ski shops, a MILK2GO tent, a dummy downhill, the Kokanee glacier girls and lots of fun and games for the kids. To see pictures of the event, visit us on Facebook.
What you may not know about Canyon Ski Area
Canyon has a terrain park! The terrain park here has a vast variety of jumps and rails for those who love riding in the park. Maintenance crews work hard to update the park frequently so be sure to get back and check it out if you haven’t been to Canyon lately.
Canyon Ski Area is Alberta’s largest non-mountain area! Essentially, Canyon has a ton of terrain and all the same amenities, facilities and gear that you would find at a mountain resort. They have 164 meters of vertical, a large rental shop, a concession, a ski school and numerous trails to keep you moving all day long.
Top 5 reasons to visit Canyon Ski Area
1. Great conditions
This hill has great skiing and snowboarding conditions all winter long. They have a top notch grooming team that work relentlessly to assure the best snow quality possible. And with the large amount of available terrain, you can always find some fresh snow the day after a snowfall. Click here to view the Canyon snow report.
2. Friendly staff
The staff at Canyon are all very friendly and will go out of their way to help you out. The ski school instructors in particular were having a great time teaching their lessons and were really enjoying the atmosphere of “Snowfest”. Interested in taking some lessons at Canyon? Click here!
3. Variety of terrain
Canyon does not cater to one individual type of skier; it has terrain for all ages and abilities. They have a large bunny hill for beginners, a terrain park and super pipe for the trick-ster, groomed blue runs for the cruiser and steep black diamond’s for the advanced. Click here to see a Canyon trail map.
4. Night skiing
For those who work during the week and are busy on weekends, Canyon offers night skiing. From Wednesday-Friday, Canyon stays open until 9pm so that residents of Red Deer are able to stop by for some skiing under the lights. Click here for more info on hours of operation at Canyon Ski Area.
5. Proximity
It’s pretty hard to beat having a ski area only 10 minutes away from your home. While Canyon caters mostly to residents of Red Deer, it also brings in a lot of skiers and boarders from the smaller surrounding towns of central Alberta. Its convenience and proximity is unmatchable. Click here to get directions to Canyon.
Congratulations to Ashley Neilson who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Canyon Ski Area. Also a big thank you to Motel 6, Red Deer for providing my accommodations during my visit to Canyon Ski Area.
To view more pictures of Canyon Ski Area, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ski-Alberta/228865805658?v=photos&ref=ts#/album.php?aid=194619&id=228865805658
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February 3, 2010
Valley Ski Club
It will be only a matter of minutes after walking through the day lodge doors at Valley Ski Club that it will feel like home. The people here are super friendly and the atmosphere is extremely welcoming. During my visit to Valley Ski Club the staff were very accommodating and it was easy to see that guests really enjoy spending time here.
Valley Ski Club is located 10 minutes south of a small Alberta town called Alliance, 2 hours east of Red Deer and 2 ½ hours southeast of Edmonton. It has 1 T-bar, 1 rope tow and a total of 5 trails. It caters mostly to families and those learning how to ski but it also supports a huge racing program with up to 135 racers!
What you may not know about Valley Ski Club
Even before the T-bar opened in 1968, people were out skiing at Valley Ski Club. It is one of the oldest operating ski areas in Alberta and it has fostered generation after generation of free skiers and ski racers.
This is a great place for kids to learn how to ski, but also a great place for parents to watch their kids learn. Since the day lodge has several huge windows that all look on towards the mountain, parents are able to stay in the lodge and still have a good view of their children and the hill.
The whole mountain, including the day lodge, is available for rent! For those looking for a spot to hold corporate functions, staff parties, birthday parties etc, Valley Ski Club can rent you the space so you can run an awesome event. For more information on renting out the Valley Ski Club call 780.879.2106.
Top 5 reasons to visit Valley Ski Club
1. Night Skiing
Every Thursday between 6-9pm and Friday between 6-10pm Valley Ski Club offers night skiing to the public. If you work Monday to Friday and never get to make it out to the hill during the week, then here’s your chance!
2. Cost
Lift tickets and seasons passes at Valley Ski Club are very reasonably priced. An adult day pass will run you only $22 and it costs only $15 for an adult for a full ski package rental. For more information on rates at Valley Ski Club click here.
3. Quality of snow
Operators at Valley Ski Club put countless hours into snowmaking beginning usually in mid November. The mountain is groomed every night which makes the snow conditions here consistent and awesome to ride and since the mountain faces away from the sun during the afternoon, the snow holds very well all winter long. To check in on the daily snow report, click here.
4. Amenities
The amenities and facilities at Valley Ski Club are of a very high standard. The day lodge is immaculate with huge windows looking onto the hill, the rental shop has a quality selection of equipment and the concession serves up amazing homemade food all day long.
5. Atmosphere
There is a very strong community feel at Valley Ski Club. The atmosphere is comfortable and the staff are very friendly and accommodating. Parents often meet for coffee in the day lodge while their kids are out skiing and numerous snowmobilers and oilfield workers stop in daily for lunch. Valley Ski Club is a great place to be and the people here are kind and genuine.
Congratulations to Kurt Hochhausen who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Valley Ski Club. Also a big thank you to Motel 6, Red Deer for providing my accommodation during my visit to Valley Ski Club.
To view more pictures of Valley Ski Club, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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January 28, 2010
Edmonton Ski Club
Skiing and snowboarding does not get any more accessible than this! The Edmonton Ski club is located on Connors hill, right in the city center of Edmonton. The top of the hill yields an awesome view of the downtown core behind the Muttart Conservatory. There are also 2 city bus stops in close proximity of this resort which makes commuting super easy. The ESC has 1 T-bar, 2 handle tows and 1 rope tow with a total of 5 trails. It caters mostly to families and those learning to ski but they also support a very large racing program. The terrain here is user friendly and ideal for all ages and abilities.
What you may not know about Edmonton Ski Club
Next year the Edmonton Ski Club will be 100 years old! It was the first ski hill in Edmonton and the second in Canada when it was established in 1911. It started off as a ski jumping facility but has now evolved into a family friendly resort offering numerous programs from racing programs to beginner lessons.
Need something to do on a Friday night? The terrain park at ESC is now open on Friday nights from 6-10pm. Come out and test your skills on their assortment of jumps and rails.
Top 5 reasons to visit Edmonton Ski Club
1. Small town atmosphere in the heart of the city
The vibe at Edmonton Ski Club is very personal. Everyone seems to know each other and it has a great laid back atmosphere. According to the staff, there are numerous men and women that learned to ski here over 60 years ago that still stop by to have coffee and often even get out for a ski!
2. Accessibility
Being right in the heart of Edmonton is a great draw for guests of ESC. It hosts 2 city bus stops and it is a short commute from any quadrant of the city. Click here for information on location and a trail map.
3. Terrain Park
The staff at ESC are constantly improving their already solid terrain park. The handle tow provides a super quick ride so park riders don’t have to waste much time on the lifts. They have numerous kickers, rails and boxes that will keep any age and ability busy all day. Click here for more information on the ESC terrain park.
4. No lines
Since there are 4 lifts that access only 5 runs, there are rarely line ups to catch the lift up the hill. Skiers and Snowboarders are able to disperse themselves out around the mountain which limits cluster and makes for a more enjoyable day when you don’t have to wait in lines.
5. Chili Cheese Fries!
It’s a huge hit! Compliments of Mona who runs the concession at ESC, the chili cheese fries have become a hot commodity among staff and guests alike. For only $5, you get heaping plate of fries doused in chili and cheese. If you haven’t had the chance to try them, do it soon! But good luck eating the whole thing!
Congratulations to Shelley Chalifoux who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Edmonton Ski Club. Also a huge thank you to Sawridge Inn & Suites, Edmonton South for providing my accommodation during my visit to Edmonton Ski Club. Great hospitality and amazing staff!
To view more pictures of Edmonton Ski Club, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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January 25, 2010
Snow Valley Edmonton
Skiing or snowboarding does not get much more accessible than it does at Snow Valley Ski Club. Located just off the Whitemud Freeway in southwest Edmonton, Snow Valley is a short commute from all areas of the city. With 2 chairlifts (1 triple, 1 quad), 2 carpets and 7 total trails, Snow Valley is a beginner friendly resort that encourages a family atmosphere. They also have great learn to ski programs, school visits during the week and one of the largest race programs in Alberta!
Last year a new high speed pulse quad chairlift was installed at Snow Valley and it takes you up the mountain in a hurry! It is the only quad chair in Edmonton and the only pulse chairlift in the world that faces you downhill while unloading. The lift was specially designed for beginners to make it easy to load and unload and it is super efficient since it is rarely stopped due to guests having difficulty getting on or off.
What you may not know about Snow Valley
Snow Valley has 2 terrain parks! One of the terrain parks is designated towards those who are learning how to ride park. It features a couple of jumps and rails that are just the right size for beginners. The more advanced park has roughly half a dozen rails and a few jumps where the more advanced parky can hone their skills. Both parks are constantly being maintained and upgraded to provide the best product possible for park riders at Snow Valley.
There is an actual city bus stop that stops at the hill! The #599 bus comes right to the base of the mountain on weekends and holidays to make the commute for Edmontonians simple and convenient.
Deals at Snow Valley
Five buck Fridays! Every Friday after 5pm, donate a food item and get your lift pass for only $5! All food donations go to the Edmonton Food Bank.
Ski for free after February 15th! Buy your next year’s seasons pass now and ski for free from February 15 until the end of the season! Call 780.434.3991 for more details on this promotion.
Top 5 reasons to visit Snow Valley Ski Club
1. Location
Snow Valley is located only seconds from the Whitemud Freeway in the southwest quadrant of the city. It also runs city buses directly to the hill which is extremely convenient for residents of Edmonton. Click here for information on how to get to Snow Valley.
2. Facilities
The facilities and amenities here are of a very high standard. The day lodge is large and comfortable, the rental shop has a ton of high quality product and the snowmaking capabilities at this resort have grown substantially. All in all, Snow Valley is a very well rounded resort that provides a great experience to its guests.
3. Lessons
Snow Valley offers a wide variety of lessons and programs that are suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. Their certified instructors are top notch and are super passionate about teaching. For more information on lessons at Snow Valley click here.
4. Terrain Park
Between the 2 terrain parks at Snow Valley, there are numerous options for all abilities of athlete. The smaller progression park is a great place for those wanting to develop skills in the park while the larger park provides sequences of jumps and rails for the more experienced. Click here to learn more about the Snow Valley terrain park.
5. Cross country skiing
The cross country trail at Snow Valley is a 1km loop with a teaching grid. It is groomed for both classic and skate skiing and rentals are available in the lodge. The track is the only manmade snow track north of Canada Olympic Park so it guarantees good snow conditions at all times. There are also cross country lessons available through the ‘discover skiing’ program. For more information on cross country skiing lessons click here.
Congratulations to Bailey Baumgartner who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Snow Valley. Also a huge thank you to Sawridge Inn & Suites, Edmonton South for providing my accommodation during my visit to Snow Valley Ski Club. Amazing hospitality and amazing staff!
To view more pictures of Snow Valley Ski Club, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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January 23, 2010
Sunridge Ski Area
What you see is not what you get at Sunridge Ski Area in Edmonton. As you drive down 17th street towards the hill, it looks like a small recreation area with only one lift. In reality, the backside of the mountain hosts the majority of its trails which cannot be seen from the highway! Sunridge is located only 4 blocks south of the Yellowhead highway right in the city of Edmonton. It has 1 triple chair, 2 T-bars, 1 rope tow, 1 cable tow and a carpet lift. There are 14 total trails at Sunridge which breakdown into 30% beginner, 45% intermediate and 25% advanced.
Sunridge caters mainly to those learning how to ski and is a great place for family recreation. It has the largest bunny hill in the Edmonton area and you are able to access it via 3 different lifts. A large portion of Sunridge’s weekday crowd comes from city school programs therefore the extremely roomy bunny hill is a huge advantage since it provides a comfortable and spacious area for students to learn to ski and snowboard. It also has a terrain park for those who like to try their skills on a sequence of rails and jumps. Click here to get more information on the Sunridge terrain park.
What you may not know about Sunridge?
Sunridge now has a chairlift! Two years ago, operators decided to tear down one of the T-bars and install a fixed grip, 3 person chairlift. It is a super comfortable ride and is a great option for those who are not comfortable or experienced enough to ride the T-bars.
Sunridge also has the only tube park in the Edmonton area. The tube park here is a great thrill and a super fun place for families to spend the day or evening together. You can also book tubing parties for you and your friends.
Top 5 reasons to visit Sunridge Ski Area
1. Great place to learn to ski/snowboard
There is a wide variety of terrain at this resort but the majority of runs are geared towards those that are learning. The large beginner bunny hill provides lots of space to practice turns and can hold a huge amount of skiers and snowboarders. Sunridge also offers a wide variety of lessons and rental gear if you're keen on getting started. Click here for more information on lessons at Sunridge.
2. Location
Being right in the city of Edmonton is a huge advantage for locals. Sunridge is only 4 blocks away from the Yellowhead highway so the commute is minimal from all quadrants of the city. Click here for directions to Sunridge Ski Area.
3. Snow tubing
Sunridge’s tubing park has 3 groomed runs and its own tubing lift so you don’t have walk back up the hill. They also provide special tubes for the park so you don’t have to worry about renting or bringing your own gear. There’s no better winter activity available! For more information on snow tubing at Sunridge click here.
4. Hours of operation
Sunridge Ski Area is open 7 days/week! There is night skiing available on weeknights and you can get a lift ticket for only $10 from 7pm to close. The hill is also open weekends from 9:30am – 5pm for those who are too busy to make it out during the week. Click here for full operation hours and information on passes.
5. Atmosphere
The comfort of the atmosphere at Sunridge is remarkable. Everybody has a smile on their face and a sparkle in their eye. The staff here are very friendly and it is obvious that ski school employees truly have a passion for teaching and being out on the snow. If you haven’t had the chance to visit Sunridge Ski Area, get out and do it, you’ll be glad you did!
Congratulations to Mitchell Smith who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Sunridge Ski Area. Also a huge thank you to Sawridge Inn & Suites, Edmonton South for providing my accommodation during my visit to Sunridge Ski Area. Amazing hospitality and amazing staff!
To view more pictures of Sunridge Ski Area, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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January 22, 2010
Rabbit Hill Snow Resort
Rabbit Hill Snow Resort is only a 10 minute drive south from Edmonton city limits. It runs one triple chairlift, 2 T-bars, 4 rope tows and 1 handle tow. There are 11 total trails and they break down into 40% beginner, 40% intermediate and 20% advanced. Families and those learning to ski are the most frequent customer at Rabbit Hill but since it provides some steep terrain and an awesome snow park, more advanced skiers and boarders are present as well. Being so close to the city, Rabbit Hill is an excellent place for skiers and boarders to hone their skills before they take on larger resorts. That being said, it’s still a great place to spend the day as it boasts all kinds of different terrain for all kinds of snow enthusiasts and is guaranteed to keep you entertained.
During the week, school programs are a large majority of Rabbit Hill’s traffic. In past years they have taken up to 40,000 school kids in one season! The public are also welcome during the week since Rabbit Hill is open every weekday from 10am to 9pm. Night skiing is super fun here so if you haven’t tried it yet, get out there and do it!
Rabbit Hill has been operational for an amazing 55 years and in 2006 they were given the Alberta award for “Customer Satisfaction and Operational Excellence” by the Canadian Ski Council! They have a very long season, usually mid November to early April, which makes them a great option for residents of Edmonton that enjoy the accessibility of the resort. Overall it is a very well run facility and promises to provide hours of entertainment for people of all ages.
Top 5 reasons to visit Rabbit Hill Snow Resort
1. Learn to ski/snowboard programs
Since learning to ski or snowboard can be quite intimidating at first, Rabbit Hill offers a variety of lessons and packages that tailor to the individual. They also have a very elaborate rental shop for those who want to learn first without going out and buying all the equipment. Click here for more information on learn to ski/snowboard programs.
2. Affordability
A full day adult lift ticket at Rabbit Hill will run you only $28! They also offer flexi passes and season passes for those who plan on frequenting the resort on a more regular basis. For families that want to spend the day together on the mountain, a family day pass (up to 4 immediate family members) costs only $119, which includes rentals! Click here for all Rabbit Hill ticket and pass rates.
3. Location
Being only 20 minutes from the city makes Rabbit Hill a super convenient recreational option for Edmonton residents. They also have numerous buses that travel to the mountain daily for those who may not have their own transportation. Need to know how to get to Rabbit Hill? Click here for directions and bus stop locations and times!
4. Terrain Park
The terrain park at Rabbit Hill has undergone numerous changes over the season and is constantly being improved and refurbished to reach its highest potential. It has also incorporated a progression park for those wanting to learn the ropes of riding park. Some of the features of the terrain park include a 25 stair set with a 30 foot round bar, a 30 foot ledge box and 2 turbo tubes, to name a few. For more information the Rabbit Hill terrain park click here.
5. Quality service
The staff at Rabbit Hill has a very high standard of customer service. You are always greeted with a smile and are quick to be attended to if you have any questions or concerns. They also have amazing snow school employees which have a constant presence out on the mountain. It is a great environment to be a part of and an excellent experience for families and people of all ages and abilities.
Congratulations to Phillip Barth who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Rabbit Hill Snow Resort. Also a huge thank you to Sawridge Inn & Suites, Edmonton South for providing my accommodation during my visit to Rabbit Hill. A great hotel with amazing staff and service!
To view more pictures of Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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January 20, 2010
Pass Powderkeg Ski Resort
Pass Powderkeg Ski Resort is a family/community ski area located right in the heart of friendly Blairmore, Alberta. It caters to skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities and has enough terrain to keep anybody busy all day. There are 3 surface lifts (2 T-bars and 1 handle tow) and it has 1200 feet of vertical. Pass Powderkeg has a total of 15 runs which breakdown into 40% beginner, 35% intermediate and 25% advanced and snowmaking is done on 68% of this terrain. Click here to get a trail map of Pass Powderkeg.
What you may not know about Pass Powderkeg
Pass Powderkeg is just over 2 hours from Calgary which makes it very accessible for those who want to take a day trip in from the city.
Prices at this resort are very affordable as an adult full day lift ticket will run you only $30! Click here for rates at Pass Powderkeg.
One of the most unique features of Pass Powderkeg is the fact that all of its amenities are located at mid-mountain! It also has one of its loading stations right at the base of the mountain which is only footsteps from the resident streets of Blairmore. It brings a new meaning to ski in/ski out for locals since they can literally ski right to the doorstep of their own houses!
Top 5 reasons to visit Pass Powderkeg Ski Resort
1. Terrain Park
Pass Powderkeg has an awesome terrain park with a huge variety of jumps, rails and rollers that tailor to trick-sters of all abilities. This park has a ton of options and many local park riders come and ride the T-bar back and forth to the park all day long.
2. Amenities
The amenities at Pass Powderkeg are top notch and are maintained to a very high standard. It has a log cabin-esque lodge, a cafeteria that cooks homemade food, and a rental shop with a great selection of high performance gear.
3. Diversity of skiing
Not only does this resort have terrain for all ages and abilities, it also has terrain for all types of skiers and snowboarders. It offers runs through the trees, groomed runs for the cruiser and steep runs for the thrill seeker.
4. Ski School
Pass Powderkeg has a great junior program, a freeride team and a thorough discover skiing package. It also has a designated beginner area for kids where they can learn to ski in a fun and comfortable environment. To learn more about these programs click here.
5. Community Feel
Pass Powderkeg prides itself as a family service. It is a tightly knit group that frequents this resort and the sense of community and camaraderie among skiers and boarders here is amazing. It has a super friendly atmosphere and overall is just a great place to spend the day!
Congratulations to Brian Taje who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Pass Powderkeg Ski Resort. Also a big thanks to Best Canadian Motor Inn Blairmore for providing my accommodation during my visit to Pass Powderkeg.
To view more pictures of Pass Powderkeg, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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January 19, 2010
Castle Mountain Ski Resort
Located only 43 kilometers south of Pincher Creek, Alberta lies a heaven of snowy opportunity. Castle Mountain Ski Resort has been around for over 40 years and originally catered only to the avid ski and snowboard enthusiast due to its steep and difficult terrain. It has now evolved into a more family friendly resort with the addition of the Huckleberry chairlift on Mount Haig which provides lift access to intermediate runs as well. Castle Mountain has over 3500 skiable acres, 84 trails and 6 lifts for your skiing enjoyment.
During my visit to Castle Mountain there was an ‘Avalanche Awareness Days’ event going on. Numerous demonstrations took place such as beacon locators, avalanche dog demonstrations and a flea market in support of Castle avalanche dogs. Visit us on Facebook to see pictures of the event.
New this year!
Beginning on January 28th, Castle Mountain is going to provide resort based cat skiing! For more information contact the resort at 403.627.5101 or email info@skicastle.ca.
The staff accommodation building is now complete which has increased staff morale on the mountain and made it more enjoyable for Castle Mountain staff.
Similar to a Louise or Sunshine card, Castle Mountain has established a family loyalty card. It was created to encourage families to come skiing and to make it affordable as well. For more information contact the resort at 403.627.5101 or email info@skicastle.ca.
The following are the top 5 reasons to visit Castle Mountain Resort!
1. Terrain, Terrain, Terrain
Acre for acre, Castle Mountain has some of the most exciting and best quality skiing and snowboarding in Western Canada. The terrain classification is 15% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 35% Advanced and 10% Expert. There are trails here for all ages and abilities.
2. Snowfall
Castle Mountain averages 30 feet of snowfall per year and when it does snow it comes in heaps! The snow at Castle is also usually very light and ideal for crushing new fresh tracks. While this resort does face challenges due to high winds, it works to their advantage because even several days after a snowfall, you can still find awesome sift snow skiing all over the mountain.
3. Friendly feel
This resort has a super strong sense of community. All customers here are treated like a guest as opposed to a number and you can see that they are dedicated to providing top notch customer service. If you get a chance to go to Castle Mountain, be sure to get a hug from Marie as you enter the lift line on the Sundance chairlift. She hugs every single person that enters the lift line!
4. Price
At only $62 for a full day Adult lift ticket, Castle Mountain has the lowest ticket prices around for a full mountain resort. Click here to see a pricing list for Castle Mountain.
5. No crowds
While Castle Mountain is a very popular resort, it manages to remain relatively un-crowded. There is so much terrain that skiers are able to disperse themselves all over the mountain which keeps line ups to a minimum. They have also chosen not to expand and remain with fixed grip lifts which may inspire certain customers to go elsewhere.
Congratulations to Flavia Boll who was our Go Big! Contest winner and took home a pair of lift tickets for Castle Mountain Resort. Also a big thanks to the Castle Mountain Ski Lodge & Hostel for their accommodations during my visit to Castle Mountain
To view more pictures of Castle Mountain Resort, become a fan of “Ski Alberta” on Facebook.
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