Saturday again proved to be one of those special days on the mountain. Cool morning temperatures mixed with warm, sunny afternoons are making for some incredible spring skiing. It truly has been an incredible month of March and there are some quality days left.
Snow depths and coverage remain perfect! Normally we are dealing with covering bare spots that begin to appear as the sun beats down on the mountain and the melt begins. Not so far this year. There is not a spot to be found anywhere.
This is the main reason that we had to extend the season one more weekend and will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday March 29th, 30th and 31st.
We have received some negative feedback regarding our decision to end night skiing as we normally do following the March Break. There are two main reason why this is done. The first has to do with visitation. December through February night skiing draws up to 500 people and is very popular. For whatever reason as soon as we hit March those numbers drop significantly. This March we have not had more than 50 people for any Friday or Saturday night.
The second reason for not normally offering night skiing this time of year is that daytime conditions do not bode well for nighttime skiing and riding. Temperature fluctuations and melting snow make it difficult for nighttime grooming and sloppy conditions. The warm afternoons and melting snow leave ruts and bumps that freeze as the temperature begin to drop. If groomers do not get on those areas at the right time (often 5:00 or 6:00pm) it can make for some really ugly grooming for the next day. Skiing on those same areas during freezing can also make for some dangerous skiing. In fact these conditions often lead to our largest instances of injury.
Conditions are not normal that's for sure. That's why we will make decisions like we did Saturday, extending the day to 5:30pm as the Mountain remained firm and everyone was having so much fun. Let's hope that keeps up.
Let's take advantage of what can only be called the best conditions in years!!!!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Friday, March 15, 2013
Mid-Winter Conditions
I know I have said it before but we really have not had conditions this good for a number of years. It truly feels like mid-february on the mountain and the skiing and riding could not be better.
And it looks like it will stay that way for a while. Temperatures remain well below the new average and look remain that way for at least another week. I had the opportunity to set some race courses over the past couple of days and the base is firm and deep. There is not a bare spot to be found anywhere on the mountain, a far cry from our position this time last year.
Busy weekend ahead with plenty of happenings and events in addition to great skiing. We are open Wednesday to Sunday next week and a decision is coming early next week on Easter Weekend. Stay tuned.
And it looks like it will stay that way for a while. Temperatures remain well below the new average and look remain that way for at least another week. I had the opportunity to set some race courses over the past couple of days and the base is firm and deep. There is not a bare spot to be found anywhere on the mountain, a far cry from our position this time last year.
Busy weekend ahead with plenty of happenings and events in addition to great skiing. We are open Wednesday to Sunday next week and a decision is coming early next week on Easter Weekend. Stay tuned.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Conditions Remain Incredible
It has been a long time, a really long time since we have seen snow conditions like this heading into the March Break. Night time temperatures remain cold enough to allow the base to remain solid and although daytime highs have been warm they have had very little effect on the base. There is even close to 11cm in the forecast on Sunday.
All this means that we will have some excellent conditions for the Break and are making plans to continue towards the end of the month. A lot can happen when it comes to weather but our current plans are to be open through the 24th and a decision is planned for next week regarding the Easter weekend. As discussed in earlier Blogs that decision will have a lot to do with weather and visitation leading up to that weekend.
Thank you for all of the feedback regarding the Quad Chair situation. The responses have been most helpful and will be included in the decision making to come. Not too late to weigh in - dan@searchmont.com . We are simple out of time for this season but there are many decisions to make moving forward and your feedback is appreciated. Please visit earlier Blogs for details.
All this means that we will have some excellent conditions for the Break and are making plans to continue towards the end of the month. A lot can happen when it comes to weather but our current plans are to be open through the 24th and a decision is planned for next week regarding the Easter weekend. As discussed in earlier Blogs that decision will have a lot to do with weather and visitation leading up to that weekend.
Thank you for all of the feedback regarding the Quad Chair situation. The responses have been most helpful and will be included in the decision making to come. Not too late to weigh in - dan@searchmont.com . We are simple out of time for this season but there are many decisions to make moving forward and your feedback is appreciated. Please visit earlier Blogs for details.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Conditions and Quad Update
After two years of less than ideal weather things sure have improved. That's not just me speaking. We are receiving feedback from guests on a daily basis stating that we are experiencing the best conditions in years. Even better news is that it appears that this winter weather is going to hold on well into March.
Our schedule is to be open right through March 24th but we are actively planning for the week of the 27th and into the Easter Holiday (the 29th, 30th and 31st). There are many factors involved in the decision to remain open into April. Stay tuned!
It's pretty safe to say that the Quad chair will not be open in 2013. This is tough as we hear from a number of people who are anxiously awaiting its opening. In the end, we are simply running out of time. We have experienced some unexpected delays in completing some of the work required and at this point it will be difficult to get everything done to get it operational this season.
The debate still rages amongst our various user groups on whether this lift is truly necessary these days. Even during our busiest days this season (and we have had some busy ones) we have experienced little to no lift lines on the double chair. Many argue whether or not the terrain is truly accessible from the double and based on the number of people skiing over their I'm inclined to say that it is.
One of the things being considered in our long term planning is moving this lift as a replacement for the aging Double Chair. This combined with a little work to the bottom of the runs over by the Quad would provide increased uphill capacity and access to the Quad terrain while ultimately reducing operating costs. Thoughts? Email me at dan@searchmont.com.
U16 Provincial Championships
Searchmont is proud to host the U16 Ontario Provincial Championships next week. The Searchmont Ski Runners will be putting on the race Wednesday thru Saturday, March 6th to 9th. 180 athletes representing the best 14 and 15 year old skiers in the Province. Should be a fun watch. Of course this means the Slalom will be closed for most of the week. SSR is still looking for volunteers particularly on the 6th, 7th and 8th. If you can assist please drop me an email.
Our schedule is to be open right through March 24th but we are actively planning for the week of the 27th and into the Easter Holiday (the 29th, 30th and 31st). There are many factors involved in the decision to remain open into April. Stay tuned!
It's pretty safe to say that the Quad chair will not be open in 2013. This is tough as we hear from a number of people who are anxiously awaiting its opening. In the end, we are simply running out of time. We have experienced some unexpected delays in completing some of the work required and at this point it will be difficult to get everything done to get it operational this season.
The debate still rages amongst our various user groups on whether this lift is truly necessary these days. Even during our busiest days this season (and we have had some busy ones) we have experienced little to no lift lines on the double chair. Many argue whether or not the terrain is truly accessible from the double and based on the number of people skiing over their I'm inclined to say that it is.
One of the things being considered in our long term planning is moving this lift as a replacement for the aging Double Chair. This combined with a little work to the bottom of the runs over by the Quad would provide increased uphill capacity and access to the Quad terrain while ultimately reducing operating costs. Thoughts? Email me at dan@searchmont.com.
U16 Provincial Championships
Searchmont is proud to host the U16 Ontario Provincial Championships next week. The Searchmont Ski Runners will be putting on the race Wednesday thru Saturday, March 6th to 9th. 180 athletes representing the best 14 and 15 year old skiers in the Province. Should be a fun watch. Of course this means the Slalom will be closed for most of the week. SSR is still looking for volunteers particularly on the 6th, 7th and 8th. If you can assist please drop me an email.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Quad Chair Update
If you are a skier or snowboarder you know that last season was a tough one. Searchmont had less snowfall than I can ever remember and that sure resulted in a difficult year with a whole lot of tough decisions.
The toughest was not to make snow on over half of our skiable terrain and not to operate the Quad Chair at Searchmont.
With visitation and revenues suffering due to the late start and lack of snow, the not for profit Searchmont Ski Association Inc. (SSAI) Board was forced to make the decision to ensure the ski areas future.
This season has certainly gotten off to a much better start. We are wrapping up our snowmaking season this week and expect to have 100% of our skiable terrain open this weekend. We continue to get great snowmaking temperatures and have experienced more natural snow than we have seen in years. We are experiencing what can only be called the best conditions in recent memory.
Despite all of the positive momentum this season SSAI is again faced with a difficult decision regarding the Quad Chair.
In 2006 the Technical Standards and Safety Association (TSSA) and the manufacturer of the lift, Doppelmayr issued a order to replace a part of the lifts sheave wheel (the wheel the cable rides on), the snap ring. The snap ring in some wheels does not seat properly in a groove in the wheel.
In summary, another ski area had an issue and as a corrective measure Doppelmayr re-machined retaining ring grooves in the sheave wheel or replaced the sheaves but only for a limited time. In order to have Doppelmayr complete this work, SSAI would have had to remove all of the affected wheels from the lift and ship them to Southern Ontario in the summer of 2007. For a number of reasons this work could not be completed in the timeline proposed by Doppelmayr.
Since that time the issue has undergone two independent engineering reviews and detailed monitoring of the gaps to ensure that they have not changed or moved. Application was made to the TSSA to exempt Searchmont from the requirement to repair the rings or sheaves. These applications have been refused and in the spring of 2012, SSAI was issued an order to have the gaps repaired before the Chair would be allowed to operate.
Why not just replace the rings and be done with it? That certainly seems like the easiest approach however estimates to complete this work have exceeded $40,000. In preparation for this season the decision was made to focus our attention on the other lifts and get them ready for the season and to re-evaluate once the season was underway.
For some time the outlook for the operation of the Quad really did not look promising due to the overall cost of the repair. However, during recent discussions with TSSA new information came to light which may lead to a less costly repair and the possibility of operation for this season.
With the good snow we are now experiencing, our outside operations crew will now focus their attention on re-evaluating these repairs and determining the true cost. This information will be presented to the SSAI Board in the coming days. If it is work that can be done in house and if the decision is made to go ahead it will begin immediately.
Meanwhile, we expect all of the terrain on the Quad to be opening in the coming days accessed from the double chair.
Stay tuned........
The toughest was not to make snow on over half of our skiable terrain and not to operate the Quad Chair at Searchmont.
With visitation and revenues suffering due to the late start and lack of snow, the not for profit Searchmont Ski Association Inc. (SSAI) Board was forced to make the decision to ensure the ski areas future.
This season has certainly gotten off to a much better start. We are wrapping up our snowmaking season this week and expect to have 100% of our skiable terrain open this weekend. We continue to get great snowmaking temperatures and have experienced more natural snow than we have seen in years. We are experiencing what can only be called the best conditions in recent memory.
Despite all of the positive momentum this season SSAI is again faced with a difficult decision regarding the Quad Chair.
In 2006 the Technical Standards and Safety Association (TSSA) and the manufacturer of the lift, Doppelmayr issued a order to replace a part of the lifts sheave wheel (the wheel the cable rides on), the snap ring. The snap ring in some wheels does not seat properly in a groove in the wheel.
In summary, another ski area had an issue and as a corrective measure Doppelmayr re-machined retaining ring grooves in the sheave wheel or replaced the sheaves but only for a limited time. In order to have Doppelmayr complete this work, SSAI would have had to remove all of the affected wheels from the lift and ship them to Southern Ontario in the summer of 2007. For a number of reasons this work could not be completed in the timeline proposed by Doppelmayr.
Since that time the issue has undergone two independent engineering reviews and detailed monitoring of the gaps to ensure that they have not changed or moved. Application was made to the TSSA to exempt Searchmont from the requirement to repair the rings or sheaves. These applications have been refused and in the spring of 2012, SSAI was issued an order to have the gaps repaired before the Chair would be allowed to operate.
Why not just replace the rings and be done with it? That certainly seems like the easiest approach however estimates to complete this work have exceeded $40,000. In preparation for this season the decision was made to focus our attention on the other lifts and get them ready for the season and to re-evaluate once the season was underway.
For some time the outlook for the operation of the Quad really did not look promising due to the overall cost of the repair. However, during recent discussions with TSSA new information came to light which may lead to a less costly repair and the possibility of operation for this season.
With the good snow we are now experiencing, our outside operations crew will now focus their attention on re-evaluating these repairs and determining the true cost. This information will be presented to the SSAI Board in the coming days. If it is work that can be done in house and if the decision is made to go ahead it will begin immediately.
Meanwhile, we expect all of the terrain on the Quad to be opening in the coming days accessed from the double chair.
Stay tuned........
Friday, January 25, 2013
Goulais Opening
For many of us, our favourite run is the Goulais at Searchmont. There is just something about cruising down that run. Don't know if it's the pitch, the solitude of the tree-lined bottom section, catching a little air off the bottom roller or just the snow, which always seems to be a little grippier.
It's been a tough couple of years as those conditions we love just haven't been there on the Goulais due to a couple of years of tough snow.
Well, I'm pleased to announce that those feelings will be back as the Goulais will be open this weekend.
Snowmaking wrapped up on the Goulais yesterday and should be complete on the Melville today. Guns are currently going hard in the Park on the Main and on Cougar Trax on the Quad.
Snow in the Park is something we haven't seen in a while either but things are looking good for a return of some solid features.
Stay tuned and keep the snow coming!!
It's been a tough couple of years as those conditions we love just haven't been there on the Goulais due to a couple of years of tough snow.
Well, I'm pleased to announce that those feelings will be back as the Goulais will be open this weekend.
Snowmaking wrapped up on the Goulais yesterday and should be complete on the Melville today. Guns are currently going hard in the Park on the Main and on Cougar Trax on the Quad.
Snow in the Park is something we haven't seen in a while either but things are looking good for a return of some solid features.
Stay tuned and keep the snow coming!!
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Thank you!
Another season is upon us and I wanted to take this Blog to thank all of those who have helped to get us doing what we all love so much!
Special thank you to all of the staff who have worked so hard through some tough circumstances. Special thank you to three of our outside operations staff, Dana Bennedict, Jim Mealey and Justin Peters who gave up there Christmas Day with their families to make snow and get the mountain groomed for boxing day. Weather has been tough and it was quite an effort to pull it off. Please take the time to thank them if you get the chance.
Thank you to the countless volunteers who assisted us during the off-season to complete a number of projects around the ski area. From painting, brushing and just general clean up it was a huge help. Searchmont is operated by a Not-For-Profit Board that has put in countless hours to keep Searchmont operational and moving forward toward a bright future and would not be operating today without such great volunteer commitment. Thank you.
Finally, thank you to all the supporters who buy their passes early every year, sponsor various events or simply offer words of encouragement and/or support. That support is essential to getting the facility open every year and following difficult snow years like we experienced last season it really means something.
THANK YOU!!!
Special thank you to all of the staff who have worked so hard through some tough circumstances. Special thank you to three of our outside operations staff, Dana Bennedict, Jim Mealey and Justin Peters who gave up there Christmas Day with their families to make snow and get the mountain groomed for boxing day. Weather has been tough and it was quite an effort to pull it off. Please take the time to thank them if you get the chance.
Thank you to the countless volunteers who assisted us during the off-season to complete a number of projects around the ski area. From painting, brushing and just general clean up it was a huge help. Searchmont is operated by a Not-For-Profit Board that has put in countless hours to keep Searchmont operational and moving forward toward a bright future and would not be operating today without such great volunteer commitment. Thank you.
Finally, thank you to all the supporters who buy their passes early every year, sponsor various events or simply offer words of encouragement and/or support. That support is essential to getting the facility open every year and following difficult snow years like we experienced last season it really means something.
THANK YOU!!!
Friday, December 21, 2012
Record Snowfall Advances Opening Day!
38cm is a new Sault record and the largest snowfall to hit Searchmont in years. In fact we didn't receive that much snow in the entire month of December 2011 and it's very close to beating the total for January of last season.
We are in real good shape for a solid December 26th opening.
Temperatures are taking a dive tonight and look good for the next week and then some. Snowmakers will be going hard to provide the best conditions possible. Our focus will be on the main and then we will shift all 22 guns on the Goulais.
As we did last season we will open as much terrain as possible with natural conditions. If you are like me that provided some of the best skiing all year and I can't wait to hit it again. Don't get me wrong, I love the groomed stuff but we all benefit from a little off piste shredding.
Not long now so stay tuned.
We are in real good shape for a solid December 26th opening.
Temperatures are taking a dive tonight and look good for the next week and then some. Snowmakers will be going hard to provide the best conditions possible. Our focus will be on the main and then we will shift all 22 guns on the Goulais.
As we did last season we will open as much terrain as possible with natural conditions. If you are like me that provided some of the best skiing all year and I can't wait to hit it again. Don't get me wrong, I love the groomed stuff but we all benefit from a little off piste shredding.
Not long now so stay tuned.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Warm Weather Returns
Temperatures well above seasonal rolled in last night. We attempted to make snow but that was abruptly halted as the temperatures climbed 5 degrees in an hour. More warm weather today but it looks like we may get a window this weekend. The good news is there is a lot of snow in the forecast. Keep it coming!!!!
Special thank you to the students of Sault College's Adventure Recreation Construction Techniques program for giving us a hand last week. The students help prepare the Lodge roof for roofing repairs planned for next week. They were a HUGE! help and we greatly appreciate it.
Special thank you to the students of Sault College's Adventure Recreation Construction Techniques program for giving us a hand last week. The students help prepare the Lodge roof for roofing repairs planned for next week. They were a HUGE! help and we greatly appreciate it.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
December 21st Opening Day
Another warm stretch has arrived in the Searchmont Valley with temperatures expected around 0 degrees later today. This is expected to hang around through the weekend before some more seasonal temperatures return for early next week.
We are making snow at every opportunity and still look for a December 21st opening day.
Snowmaking has not been without it's difficulties. In addition to some crazy swings in temperatures we had to deal with an air pipe which split causing a loss of system pressure. This was not an easy repair based on it's location and definitely caused some missed snowmaking opportunities but has now been fixed and we are fully operational.
There have been some cold temperatures but they seem to be coming in very short stretches. We have seen a couple of instances where the temperature has swung by as much as 8 degrees in one hour. Crazy!!! In addition there have been variances in temperature from top of the mountain to the bottom of as much as 5 degrees and that's warmer at the top!!!
The forecast looks good and we will be fully at it whenever possible.
Stay tuned! It won't be long now.
Dan
We are making snow at every opportunity and still look for a December 21st opening day.
Snowmaking has not been without it's difficulties. In addition to some crazy swings in temperatures we had to deal with an air pipe which split causing a loss of system pressure. This was not an easy repair based on it's location and definitely caused some missed snowmaking opportunities but has now been fixed and we are fully operational.
There have been some cold temperatures but they seem to be coming in very short stretches. We have seen a couple of instances where the temperature has swung by as much as 8 degrees in one hour. Crazy!!! In addition there have been variances in temperature from top of the mountain to the bottom of as much as 5 degrees and that's warmer at the top!!!
The forecast looks good and we will be fully at it whenever possible.
Stay tuned! It won't be long now.
Dan
Saturday, February 4, 2012
We are 95% open but still struggling with weather
Weather continues to be the story this winter. We have had some incredible days on the mountain and snow conditions on the groomed runs have really been quite good. I find it tough getting truly ramped up when the trees are bare, the snow turns dirty and the air is damp. That being said once you get sliding it really is not bad.
I managed a few runs this morning and the groomed terrain off the Triple Chair and the Slalom are fantastic. I ventured off the groomed stuff to the Goulais and the Melville and had a blast. These runs were unbelievable when we had that dump of snow last weekend but I really didn't know what to expect today. I was pleasantly surprised!! The runs on that side have bumped up nicely and are really a lot of fun to ski. Rough in spots but really a fun ride. The snow coverage also remains quite good.
The problem we are faced with is whether to groom those areas. There is just enough snow in most areas to run a groomer. The problem lies with the drainage ditches. Those of you that have skied over there know what I'm talking about. They can pose a real challenge. There is just not enough snow to fill them so when groomed they can present a real danger. Groomed terrain usually means higher speeds and someone going into that ditch at the bottom of the Goulais at speed would probably not fair too well.
The solution may very well be to leave as is and hope for snow!! Stay tuned and enjoy the bump skiing while it's here. It is fun!!!!
I managed a few runs this morning and the groomed terrain off the Triple Chair and the Slalom are fantastic. I ventured off the groomed stuff to the Goulais and the Melville and had a blast. These runs were unbelievable when we had that dump of snow last weekend but I really didn't know what to expect today. I was pleasantly surprised!! The runs on that side have bumped up nicely and are really a lot of fun to ski. Rough in spots but really a fun ride. The snow coverage also remains quite good.
The problem we are faced with is whether to groom those areas. There is just enough snow in most areas to run a groomer. The problem lies with the drainage ditches. Those of you that have skied over there know what I'm talking about. They can pose a real challenge. There is just not enough snow to fill them so when groomed they can present a real danger. Groomed terrain usually means higher speeds and someone going into that ditch at the bottom of the Goulais at speed would probably not fair too well.
The solution may very well be to leave as is and hope for snow!! Stay tuned and enjoy the bump skiing while it's here. It is fun!!!!
Friday, January 27, 2012
Double to Open on Saturday!
It has been another tough week for weather with a substantial rain falling on the mountain on Monday. Special thanks to all of those who skied all of the natural terrain last weekend. With that terrain being skied out and packed I actually think the rain helped matters. We did lose some snow but the added moisture helped set-up a pretty good base once the temperatures dropped. A little fresh snow on top and things should be pretty good.
We experienced a main water line break in our snowmaking system last weekend as well. Special thanks to the outside operations crew (Justin, Jimmy, Dana and Lindsey), Jeff Priddle and the guys from Fecteau Excavating for their help in getting that issue resolved.
It was particularly interesting watching a shovel operate on the downhill terrain. All we need now are some cold temperatures.
The Double will run on Saturday. I do not expect the top of the Melville under the double chair will be in great shape but it certainly is ski able. Just not a lot of snow up there particularly near the Amy Lauren Race Start. Snowmakers will do what they can on Sunday when temperatures return to normal.
We will be moving some of the parking lot snow this morning to the base area to try to fill in some of the ditches in that area. Need to grab snow from wherever possible. All runs will be open but it is only the runs off of the Triple and the Slalom that will be groomed. All other terrain is natural and care should be taken as natural and man-made hazards do exist. With any luck at all we will see a little snow and fun will be had by all!
See you on the mountain!
We experienced a main water line break in our snowmaking system last weekend as well. Special thanks to the outside operations crew (Justin, Jimmy, Dana and Lindsey), Jeff Priddle and the guys from Fecteau Excavating for their help in getting that issue resolved.
The Double will run on Saturday. I do not expect the top of the Melville under the double chair will be in great shape but it certainly is ski able. Just not a lot of snow up there particularly near the Amy Lauren Race Start. Snowmakers will do what they can on Sunday when temperatures return to normal.
We will be moving some of the parking lot snow this morning to the base area to try to fill in some of the ditches in that area. Need to grab snow from wherever possible. All runs will be open but it is only the runs off of the Triple and the Slalom that will be groomed. All other terrain is natural and care should be taken as natural and man-made hazards do exist. With any luck at all we will see a little snow and fun will be had by all!
See you on the mountain!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
More terrain now OPEN.
Finally some fresh snow and cold temperatures allowed for the opening of the Slalom yesterday. We also opened up the rest of the mountain with 'natural conditions' including the Goulais and Melville which can be accessed from the 3x4 off the main.
We tried extremely hard to have the double running this weekend but a lack of snow at the top of the double, particularly by the Amy Lauren Race Start prevented that from happening. We fully expect the Double to operate next weekend.
The fresh snow was a blessing for sure but we were not without our challenges this week. Thursday night we experienced a main line water break on the Melville. This will require some digging to repair but we expect to have that completed before this next wave of warm weather passes. This break also contributed to the lack of snow on the top of the double as that line is required to make snow in that area.
On a positive note it has been really great seeing the number of kids on the mountain over the past couple of weeks. Snow School Programs continue to become busier and busier which is a great sign for the future.
The warm spell is to last for several days but we will be sure to jump back on snowmaking with the intent of getting the Goulais, Melville and Champs open as soon as possible. With any luck we will see more of the fresh stuff as well.
We tried extremely hard to have the double running this weekend but a lack of snow at the top of the double, particularly by the Amy Lauren Race Start prevented that from happening. We fully expect the Double to operate next weekend.
The fresh snow was a blessing for sure but we were not without our challenges this week. Thursday night we experienced a main line water break on the Melville. This will require some digging to repair but we expect to have that completed before this next wave of warm weather passes. This break also contributed to the lack of snow on the top of the double as that line is required to make snow in that area.
On a positive note it has been really great seeing the number of kids on the mountain over the past couple of weeks. Snow School Programs continue to become busier and busier which is a great sign for the future.
The warm spell is to last for several days but we will be sure to jump back on snowmaking with the intent of getting the Goulais, Melville and Champs open as soon as possible. With any luck we will see more of the fresh stuff as well.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Conditions remain excellent despite lack of snow
Hats off to our Outside operations Crew for the conditions we have experienced over the past couple of weeks. Not only have they been battling a lack of natural snow temperatures refuse to cooperate consistently for snowmaking.
Guns were able to fire up on Friday and have continued around the clock. It is possible we will see the top of Herb's Meadow open sometime today and we will be pushing hard to have the Double running next weekend with the Slalom.
Nothing beats the fresh stuff and I know it's been said over and over but we are due!
Visitation has been down of course but we are excited about the number of kids on the slopes and in our children's programs. Their enthusiasm for sliding makes you remember what is great about this sport. No matter how much snow is on the ground nothing beats the sensation and freedom of sliding down the mountain.
Guns were able to fire up on Friday and have continued around the clock. It is possible we will see the top of Herb's Meadow open sometime today and we will be pushing hard to have the Double running next weekend with the Slalom.
Nothing beats the fresh stuff and I know it's been said over and over but we are due!
Visitation has been down of course but we are excited about the number of kids on the slopes and in our children's programs. Their enthusiasm for sliding makes you remember what is great about this sport. No matter how much snow is on the ground nothing beats the sensation and freedom of sliding down the mountain.
Friday, January 6, 2012
More terrain off of the Triple now open!
Dana spent some time yesterday in the groomer trying to get more runs open off the Triple chair. Both Binder Twine (to the left off of the chair) and the top of Herb's Meadow (to the right) are now open.
More width was also added to the middle section, below the middle head wall which makes a huge difference through that section of the mountain.
We are close on the remaining section of Herb's Meadow but a little light on snow through the area affectionately known as high road/low road. A ditch below that section requires more snow. One more good night of cold weather and we should have all of the runs off of the Triple open.
Night skiing again tonight along with our first $9.95 Friday night of the season. Watch for an accommodation special for the remainder of January. For reservation booked before Sunday, January 8th you receive 20% off chalet and villa rates. Call 705-781-2340 ext. 0 for details and availability.
The skiing and riding is good! If you haven't made it out yet don't wait!
More width was also added to the middle section, below the middle head wall which makes a huge difference through that section of the mountain.
We are close on the remaining section of Herb's Meadow but a little light on snow through the area affectionately known as high road/low road. A ditch below that section requires more snow. One more good night of cold weather and we should have all of the runs off of the Triple open.
Night skiing again tonight along with our first $9.95 Friday night of the season. Watch for an accommodation special for the remainder of January. For reservation booked before Sunday, January 8th you receive 20% off chalet and villa rates. Call 705-781-2340 ext. 0 for details and availability.
The skiing and riding is good! If you haven't made it out yet don't wait!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Poma - back in operation. Vandalism on the Mountian
Slightly warmer temperatures today which should make for a very comfortable day on the mountain. Conditions continue to improve and snowmaking is going all out. We expect to see some more terrain opening on Friday.
Special thank you to our lift mechanics Karl Hult, Justin Peters and Jim Mealey for their hard work in returning the Poma lift to operation. Also a huge thank you to RoVon Steel for an incredible turn around on the repair. The Poma could have easily been out of service for a week if not for their hard work. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
On a very frustrating note. More vandalism of chair seats on the Triple Chair occured over the past couple of days. Profanity was found punched into the seats with the tips of ski poles. Damages are approaching a thousand dollars so far as each cushion is over 100 dollars to replace. We ask your assistance in keeping a look out for individuals causing this damage and ask that you please report any suspicious behaviour to a staff member.
Searchmont welcomes Laurentian University for their five day ski program with the Searchmont Snow School.
Thank you and see you on the mountain.
Special thank you to our lift mechanics Karl Hult, Justin Peters and Jim Mealey for their hard work in returning the Poma lift to operation. Also a huge thank you to RoVon Steel for an incredible turn around on the repair. The Poma could have easily been out of service for a week if not for their hard work. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
On a very frustrating note. More vandalism of chair seats on the Triple Chair occured over the past couple of days. Profanity was found punched into the seats with the tips of ski poles. Damages are approaching a thousand dollars so far as each cushion is over 100 dollars to replace. We ask your assistance in keeping a look out for individuals causing this damage and ask that you please report any suspicious behaviour to a staff member.
Searchmont welcomes Laurentian University for their five day ski program with the Searchmont Snow School.
Thank you and see you on the mountain.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Conditions improving by the day and Poma lift issue
Snow conditions are getting better and better every day and with the cold temperatures more runs are coming soon. We are blowing snow to finish the main full width and to finish some of the jumps for the terrain park. If temperatures we should definately see some more terrain in a day of two.
Please note that the Poma surface lift servicing the Learning Center will not be operational today. Lift Mechanics discovered a mechanical problem which was causing significant wear to a key component of the lift. Continued operation in that state would have caused irreversible damage and a very costly repair. The decision was made to remove from service and get it fixed immediately. We expect it back in service sometime tomorrow or Thursday. It was a tough decision but in the end there really was no choice. Our friends at Ro-Von Steel are completing the necessary repairs and lift mechanics will get it back in service as soon as the component returns.
Please note that the Poma surface lift servicing the Learning Center will not be operational today. Lift Mechanics discovered a mechanical problem which was causing significant wear to a key component of the lift. Continued operation in that state would have caused irreversible damage and a very costly repair. The decision was made to remove from service and get it fixed immediately. We expect it back in service sometime tomorrow or Thursday. It was a tough decision but in the end there really was no choice. Our friends at Ro-Von Steel are completing the necessary repairs and lift mechanics will get it back in service as soon as the component returns.
We have been asked to use a snowmachine with a rope to pull skiers up the Poma but this is unfortunately not going to be possible. There are simply two many risks in doing that with beginner skiers and snowboarders and particularly small children. If you have ever seen the number of people falling off the Poma lift on a normal day you can image the problems that may occur with pulling people on a snow machine in close proximity to one another.
Remember we are open all week 9:30 am to 9 pm.
Remember we are open all week 9:30 am to 9 pm.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Finally some snow!
Sorry for a couple of days of missed posts everyone (especially you Brian) things are always busy when we get under way and it was sure nice to see some activity.
Conditions were a little rough opening day but I think considering the weather that staff have had to deal with it was pretty good. By all accounts the fresh snow dramatically improved conditions on Sunday and after being groomed last night should be even better today.
Thanks to the band Porter for putting on a great show for the 200+ who attended the New Years celebration on Saturday night.
A special thank you to all of the staff who managed to pull together getting things open on Saturday. With this kind of weather and the delayed opening there should be no surprise that it really puts a strain on resources. Many staff returned more than a month later than normal as a result and had a couple of days to get things together for opening, work that can take weeks. We had our expected challenges but really it was amazing what they were able to pull together. Thank you everyone!!!
We are open all week 9:30am to 9:00pm so get out here and find your snow legs!
Conditions were a little rough opening day but I think considering the weather that staff have had to deal with it was pretty good. By all accounts the fresh snow dramatically improved conditions on Sunday and after being groomed last night should be even better today.
Thanks to the band Porter for putting on a great show for the 200+ who attended the New Years celebration on Saturday night.
A special thank you to all of the staff who managed to pull together getting things open on Saturday. With this kind of weather and the delayed opening there should be no surprise that it really puts a strain on resources. Many staff returned more than a month later than normal as a result and had a couple of days to get things together for opening, work that can take weeks. We had our expected challenges but really it was amazing what they were able to pull together. Thank you everyone!!!
We are open all week 9:30am to 9:00pm so get out here and find your snow legs!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Opening Saturday? Sure looks like it.
Expect an official answer later this morning but after touring the mountain yesterday afternoon and this last night of snowmaking, I suspect that we will be in good shape for opening on Saturday.
Temperatures did get out of the ideal zone yesterday but crews managed it well and have achieved quite a bit considering the weather we have been experiencing. The Learning Centre is ready to go and will be open at 9:30am.
The main and the Triple chair may be a little late as last minute safety is put into place. The run will not be full width in places but honestly what I saw yesterday was much better than I had expected. Groomers will be on it most of the day today and we will continue to make snow as long as weather allows.
If you are anything like me you are just anxious to get some turns in. It's been a long while. Keep checking in as we will be providing more details as the day goes on.
Temperatures did get out of the ideal zone yesterday but crews managed it well and have achieved quite a bit considering the weather we have been experiencing. The Learning Centre is ready to go and will be open at 9:30am.
The main and the Triple chair may be a little late as last minute safety is put into place. The run will not be full width in places but honestly what I saw yesterday was much better than I had expected. Groomers will be on it most of the day today and we will continue to make snow as long as weather allows.
If you are anything like me you are just anxious to get some turns in. It's been a long while. Keep checking in as we will be providing more details as the day goes on.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Cold weather is helping!
Things are looking a lot better than just a couple of days ago. The cold temperatures have allowed for snowmaking around the clock since Tuesday night. Forecasts are calling for things to warm up a bit today which is unfortunate. Here is hoping that it stays just cold enough to allow snowmaking to continue.
The Poma is complete and will be open on Saturday. Opening rail jam with a brand new feature will go Saturday as well. Check for details on facebook.
We are hoping to have the Triple chair open on Saturday as well. Once we evaluate our snow situation today I will be able to provide a more definite answer on that.
One thing for sure....it won't be long now.
The Poma is complete and will be open on Saturday. Opening rail jam with a brand new feature will go Saturday as well. Check for details on facebook.
We are hoping to have the Triple chair open on Saturday as well. Once we evaluate our snow situation today I will be able to provide a more definite answer on that.
One thing for sure....it won't be long now.
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