If all goes according to plan, new fluffy white snow will await skiers and snowboarders at Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area this Friday for its official opening weekend.
“We’re planning to open the weekend of Dec 16-18, weather permitting. The lifts will be spinning from 9 am-4 pm each day,” said Courtney Payne, communications and events manager. “While the weather has been challenging, our snowmaking team is set to have the guns running this week as the colder temperatures move in. Several upgrades to the snowmaking equipment will allow for excellent snow production this season to go along with what Mother Nature has to offer.”
The ski hill will offer specially priced lift tickets ($40 plus tax. For those 5 & Under $15 plus tax) available at the guest services desk. Anyone needing rental equipment can purchase a ski package for $40 plus tax, or a snowboard package for $35 plus tax.
“If you purchased a mid-Week, night or 3×3 pass this season they are also valid for this first weekend as a bonus! We really want people to come out and have some fun. This is what we wait all year for,” noted Payne.
Starting December 23, the ski hill will be open daily until 9 pm with the exception of Dec. 24th, 25th, and 31st when the lifts will close at 4 pm.
The Torchlight Parade will also return on December 24. “We’re looking forward to hosting our Torchlight Parade again this year. It’s a family favourite! Watch as skiers descend the Flying Dutchman while carrying brightly lit torches in a beautiful procession of lights. The Chalet will be open from 5 – 6 pm where you can sip hot chocolate, indulge in some goodies, and listen to Tobin Spring play. The Parade begins at 6 pm sharp,” added Payne.
It’s been a transition year for the facility with a new general manager and their accountant of 20 years retiring. But new blood brings new initiatives as well. “We’ve got some new stuff coming down the pipes, and I think we’re looking forward to a really good year.” Payne said demand is up with skiing being a really popular choice for people this winter. “Our snow school has continued to sell out… season passes numbers are up, our trial memberships numbers are up—we’re anticipating a really busy and fun winter.”
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