An early start to snow making in November helped local ski resorts manage milder weather over the holidays and finish on a positive note.
On Sunday, a steady line of traffic drove out of Collingwood as visitors to ski country were heading home. At the same time, local businesses, including Brice Melhuish at the Sunset Grill, wrapped up what he said was the busiest two weeks of the winter season.
“December is starting to be my best winter month,” says Melhuish, “it used to be February, but we are all good. The two weeks that end today are as strong as any two weeks in the year. As strong as an August week without a patio.”
At Blue Mountain Resort, crews were able to manage its snow, keeping the lifts and trails operational despite mild weather over the past two weeks. Jonathan Reid with Horseshoe Resort credits an early start to snowmaking efforts.
“Getting the snow on the ground in those early cold temperatures in November was key to getting through the Christmas holidays for us,” says Reid.
“We always take advantage of early cold temperatures now get that snow on the ground and insulate ourselves for the Christmas holiday season.”
The mild weather meant clear roads, which made it easier for many day-trippers to visit the area. Both restaurants and ski shops also noticed that business trends changed this year, with sales picking up one week earlier than usual.
“Service was earlier; rentals were earlier, sales were earlier," says Frank McGuirk with Moutain Side Sports, “I was just catching up with it.”
