Ontario Ski Resorts Revel in Exceptional Winter Conditions
While Toronto residents continue to dig out from a historic snowstorm, ski destinations across Ontario are celebrating what industry leaders are calling one of the best seasons in recent years. The combination of abundant natural snowfall and consistently cold temperatures has created ideal conditions for winter sports enthusiasts.
Blue Mountain Reports 'Stellar' Season
Tara Lovell from Blue Mountain Resort in Collingwood, Ontario's largest ski destination, described the current season as "stellar" and among the best they've experienced. Despite receiving only 10 centimeters of snow during the late January storm that dumped 46 centimeters at Pearson Airport, the resort has benefited from excellent conditions throughout the winter.
"Snow-wise, it's one of the best seasons we've had," Lovell emphasized. "Having such an early start to winter with snow, generally in Ontario, but for sure in our region, we've seen consistently busy weekends with skiing and snowboarding."
Blue Mountain, located approximately two hours from Toronto, reported 50 centimeters of snowfall in the days leading up to the late January storm. All 43 trails across 365 ski-ready acres were open with an average snow depth of 90 centimeters. The resort's total seasonal snowfall has reached 206 centimeters so far.
Consistent Cold Enables Optimal Snow-Making
Lovell highlighted that consistently cold temperatures since December have provided excellent snow-making opportunities, which complement natural snowfall. "Machine-made snow is denser and lasts longer on the hill," she explained. "When groomed together with natural snow, it makes for a much better experience."
Blue Mountain typically operates for about 120 days per season, opening in mid-December and hoping to remain operational through March break depending on conditions.
Horseshoe Valley Shares Positive Outlook
At Horseshoe Valley Resort in Barrie, approximately 90 minutes from Toronto, the sentiment is equally optimistic. Spokesperson Sarah Tyler reported that their 28 runs received 43 centimeters of snow during the January 24-25 weekend alone, with an overall snow depth of 95 centimeters across 61 acres of alpine terrain.
"It's definitely exciting to see lots of snow coming," Tyler said. "The incredible conditions are something people notice and really wait for. Definitely, people are happy, it's nice and bright, the depth of base is phenomenal. It's pretty comfortable skiing conditions."
Tyler noted that the positive atmosphere extends beyond just the snow conditions. "Overall the vibe and the energy around the hill is important to us, and seeing people smiling and happy and having a good time means we're doing our job right."
Province-Wide Success Story
Kevin Nicol, president of the Ontario Snow Resorts Association (OSRA), which represents 52 Alpine skiing centers and two Nordic skiing centers, confirmed that the strong season appears consistent across the province.
"I think right across the province, it's fairly consistent," Nicol stated. "This year it seems we're doing well in the east. We're celebrating the snow. As far as I know the ski areas have embraced it. Once you get out there and groom those trails down, it creates a much thicker snow pack that can last longer into the season."
While it's too early to quantify how much visits may have increased, Nicol noted that "Christmas came on really strong" for the industry.
Destination Ontario Endorses 'Epic' Conditions
A spokesperson for Destination Ontario echoed the positive assessments, stating: "It's shaping up to be an epic ski season in Ontario, with fresh snow creating great conditions across the province."
The exceptional conditions mean that winter sports enthusiasts don't need to travel far from urban centers to experience quality skiing and snowboarding. Both Blue Mountain and Horseshoe Valley representatives emphasized that their proximity to Toronto makes them accessible winter playgrounds for city residents seeking authentic Canadian winter experiences.
As the season continues, resorts remain optimistic that the favorable conditions will persist through the remainder of the winter, providing extended opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities across Ontario's diverse ski destinations.
