Mt. Norquay Celebrates a Century of Skiing with Nostalgic Festivities
Mt. Norquay, one of Canada's oldest ski areas established in 1926, is marking its 100-year anniversary with a special "Day of Nostalgia" on Saturday, March 28. The celebration includes a range of activities such as ski racing, guided mountain tours, and fireside chats, honoring the resort's rich history while looking toward its future.
From Wilderness to Modern Amenities
Over a century ago, skiing at Mt. Norquay was a rugged wilderness experience, requiring a tiring trudge up the mountain with heavy equipment, leather boots, and strap bindings, often with few other humans in sight. Jasper Johnson, the ski resort's marketing and communication manager, noted that it was primarily reserved for those already living in the valley.
Today, the resort has evolved significantly, offering modern amenities, a snow tubing park, and a snow school with a high density of skilled ski instructors. Johnson emphasized that the smaller hills are now more inviting for newcomers "dabbling" in winter activities, aiming to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors during the colder months.
Centennial Celebrations and Activities
The 100-year anniversary festivities kick off at 9 a.m., featuring:
- Guided mountain tours led by veteran skiers.
- Fireside chats with resort owners Adam and Jan Waterous, discussing the resort's future and a planned gondola.
- Live music throughout the day.
- Food and beverages, including burgers and brats, served on the resort's deck.
At the Lone Pine pub, visitors can explore a nostalgic display of resort memorabilia, including photos, articles, posters, and banners shared by skiers over the past 80 years. Johnson expressed hope that this would resonate with long-time visitors and newcomers alike.
Historical Significance and Future Developments
Mt. Norquay has a storied history in ski racing and ski jumping, hosting national championships as early as the 1930s. It is credited with the birth of the 'Crazy Canucks,' a team of Canadian downhill skiers who broke European dominance in the 1970s and 1980s, securing 14 World Cup wins.
Looking ahead, Johnson revealed plans for a gondola that would run from the base of the current day lodge to the Cascade lodge, providing enhanced access to the Cliff House Bistro area. This development aims to offer a different winter experience and all-access summer sightseeing opportunities, though it is still in final discussions.
Johnson concluded, "We have been celebrating quality time since 1926, and we want to do the same for the next 100 years." The centennial celebration embodies this spirit, blending nostalgia with a vision for the future.
