Blue Mountains ski shop a cornerstone of the community for nearly 60 years

For nearly 60 years, Squire John’s has been a cornerstone of the community, combining a love for the outdoors with a commitment to customer care in the Town of the Blue Mountains.

John Will built the ski shop in 1969, using his nickname ‘Squire’ for what’s become a town staple, and the business continues to thrive, offering outdoor enthusiasts everything they need to enjoy the season.

• Download the CTV News app free for local alerts
• Get the latest local updates and breaking news sent to your inbox

The shop first opened its doors with a focus on ski equipment and has since expanded its offerings to include snowboards, snowshoes, and winter apparel in the colder months, and when the weather shifts and the snow melts, the shop offers more summer-friendly items.

John Murray, the shop’s owner, summed up the secret to their success in one word: passion.

“We get to look at each other and say we made it through another crazy day at Squire John's when we've been inundated with people. It's a pretty good feeling, with everyone pushing in the same direction, so that's what I get out of it. I love it,” he said.

The name ‘Squire John’s’ may have started as a playful nod to its founder, but over the decades, it has become synonymous with quality gear, expert advice and a deep connection to the community it serves, making the shop more than just a store, it’s become a tradition.