Blue Magazine No1

magazine

BLUE wi n ter 2012/13

f

Iss ue o n e

men in black

Preparing for fresh tracks under the stars

After Your Last Run — The Après Guide

The Season’s Hottest Trends In Cold Weather Gear

Fearless in the Terrain Park

Blue 365 Magazine

Contents

04

Plant a Ski Seed.

Watch it Grow

A thank you to the mysterious chocolate salesman who played a part in the development of Blue Mountain. Lori Knowles

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The Après Guide

The adventure begins after your last run.

A look at great ideas on how to spend your time off the hill. Allison Kennedy Davies

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Men in Black

If you rise early enough at Blue Mountain Resort, you may catch a glimpse of the tired night crews as they make their way in from the trails. Sharon Weatherall

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Fearless in the Terrain Park

“Newbie” fears are normal when you first enter the Terrain Park. Jason Petznick

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The Season’s Hottest Trends in Cold Weather Gear

Here’s a showcase of some of the latest musthave winter clothing and equipment — all available right here at Blue Mountain Resort.

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When the Snow Melts

Unforgettable summer escapes for families, friends and couples. Collin Matanowitsch

2012/13

WinterGuide

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The Future of Blue

2012/13 Winter Guide

The Inside Line

10 The Depot

10 Welcome to Hens-andChickens Harbour

30 Winter Trail Map

A look at Jozo Weider’s vision and the resort of the future. Lori Knowles

Transformation of a Blue Mountain landmark. Lori Knowles

The insider’s guide to skiing, snowboarding, lessons, lodging, special events and a host of other activities.

Fun facts from Collingwood, Thornbury and the Town of The Blue Mountains.

We asked the locals about the very best at Blue Mountain. Allison Kennedy Davies

Find your favourite run or look for a new one at Blue Mountain Resort.

Allison Kennedy Davies

44 Apple Culture

You’ve heard of wine trails, cheese trails — even chocolate trails. Now experience the Apple Pie Trail. Lori Knowles

46 Top 5 Tricks to Getting Kids Winter Active

Catherine Cameron offers her tricks to encourage kids to stay active. Lori Knowles

48 Faces of Blue

A Passholder for 41 years, Tom Servinis is a true “Face of Blue”. Collin Matanowitsch

Blue Magazine

First Turn T

his is the inaugural edition of the Blue Magazine. We’ve had many firsts at Blue Mountain during our 72-year history, and our team is very excited to share and celebrate the upcoming winter season with you through this new publication.

The following pages capture the Blue Mountain winter experience. But not just through our eyes. We’ve reached out to some of the area’s most well-known journalists to help tell our stories about the people at Blue, activities, our future and history, and highlight the latest winter gear for your time on the hill. Did you know we have our own Men in Black crew? These guys give Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones a run for their money, and you’ll learn about their roles on pages 12-17! With so much to cover, we had trouble fitting it all in. However, we think this is the perfect way to kick-off our first issue.

The Blue Mountain experience is about the people who make it special, everyone from our staff members to our guests. As such, we’ve asked a few locals, or “Faces of Blue” as we often call them, to share their local knowledge of Blue Mountain and the region, including former Olympic Skier Todd Brooker, who grew up on the slopes of Southern Georgian Bay. We also share some knowledge from some of Blue Mountain’s local park riders on pages 24 to get you ready for the season in the Badlands Terrain Park.

Our Winter Guide on pages 32-40 will provide you with all the information you need to know about our Season Pass products, lift tickets, kids programs, lessons, rentals, activities, lodging and conferences at Blue Mountain.

Of course we couldn’t publish our first magazine without including a tribute to the man who made this all possible — our founder, Jozo Weider. Pages 4-9 provide a snapshot of our history and describe how Jozo’s bold vision as a four-season destination is coming to fruition. All this mixed in with some interesting interviews and information about the resort that capture the winter experience here at Blue Mountain.

As you suit up for winter and wish for many powder days ahead, we hope you enjoy this first issue of our magazine. Thank you for your dedication, passion and love for winter. We look forward to sharing the season with you.

Sincerely, Paul Pinchbeck Director, Marketing Blue Mountain Resorts Limited

magazine

Editor’s Note

BLUE BLUE MAGAZINE NO.1 WINTER 2012/13 PUBLISHER Blue Mountain Resorts Limited EDITOR Paul Pinchbeck

Allison Kennedy

Allison Kennedy Davies is a Meaford, Ontario, local who has spent many hours on the slopes at Blue Mountain with her husband, Cory, a long-time snowboard and ski instructor there, and her daughter Hannah, a Kids at Blue graduate. Having previously worked as an editor, writer and photographer in the Canadian motocross industry, Allison now shoots weddings and family portraits in the Georgian Bay area and freelances for several area magazines including Mountain Life and On the Bay. You can see more of her work at www.allisonkennedy.com

Managing EDITORs Marie-Eve Dolan, Collin Matanowitsch Production & coordination Buchanan Associates DESIGN AND LAYOUT Sue Breen and Chris McCorkindale McCorkindale Advertising & Design Contributing Writers Allison Kennedy, Lori Knowles, Collin Matanowitsch, Jason Petznick, Sharon Weatherall Contributing Photographers Andrea Hamlin Photography, Marc Landry, Brian Hunt Visual, iStockphoto and photo Courtesy of the Craigleith Heritage Depot Blue Magazine is published by Blue Mountain Resorts Limited 108 Jozo Weider Blvd., Blue Mountains Ontario, Canada L9Y 3Z2.

EDITORIAL Phone: (705) 445-0231, ext. 6202 E-mail: editor@bluemountain.ca Fax: (705) 444-1751 DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES Phone: (705) 445-0231, ext. 6202 E-mail: adsales@bluemountain.ca Fax: (705) 444-1751 VISIT OUR WEB SITE bluemountain.ca Printed in Canada © 2012 Blue Mountain Resorts Limited.

All rights reserved. Any publication, reproduction, or use without express permission in writing of any text, illustration, or photographic content in any manner is prohibited except for inclusion of brief quotations when credit is given.

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Contributing Writers

Lori Knowles

Lori Knowles is a Canada-based ski writer and former editor of Ski Press magazine. Lori is the ski columnist of the Toronto Sun, and her ski features appear frequently in magazines and newspapers including Ski Canada, Skiing Heritage, Today’s Parent, Chic, The Globe & Mail and Up!, Westjet’s inflight magazine. @LoriExploring www.LoriKnowles.com

Collin Matanowitsch

Collin is the resident Public Relations Specialist at Blue Mountain Resort.

Over the years, Collin has written articles and content for many media outlets and ski/snowboard industry publications. Growing up just outside Collingwood, Collin knows the terrain at Blue Mountain like the back of his hand. When he’s not on the mountain, you can often see or hear Collin on local TV or radio stations talking about everything Blue Mountain.

Jason Petznick

In addition to working in the Marketing Department at Blue Mountain Resort, Jason is also a regular contributor to the SBC Ski and Snowboard Resort Guide, Snowboard Canada Magazine, and SBC Business Magazine. When he’s not reading, writing, snowboarding or enjoying fresh fruit, Jason is canvassing the Swedish Academy to accept snowboard journalism as a category for the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Sharon Weatherall

Sharon Weatherall is a freelance writer/photographer from Wasaga Beach.

Over the past three decades her articles and photos have appeared in news and special publications in the Simcoe County area. Well known throughout the Georgian Bay area, Sharon has been a familiar face at Blue Mountain, providing regular year-round coverage of Village events and winter competitions and activities on the slopes. She also enjoys travelling and writing about her experiences abroad.

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Blue Magazine

Plant a Ski Seed, Watch It Grow The Development of Blue Mountain and Beyond

By Lori Knowles, with notes from George Weider’s book Blue Mountain

The next time your skis slip blissfully through powder on Blue Mountain’s L-Hill, or on one of the meandering runs at a nearby private ski club, say a silent thank you to the mysterious chocolate salesman who made much of it possible.

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es, the forgotten chocolate salesman who, in the winter of 1935, found himself snowed-in while on a routine sales trip to Collingwood, Ontario. That salesman’s phone call to his Toronto chocolate company headquarters caught the attention of a man named Ross Larway, who just happened to be visiting the Toronto chocolate factory that day and who just happened to be one of the Toronto Ski Club’s most active members. Catching wind of the snowbound chocolate salesman’s predicament, Larway took note of the location, called up some of his friends and proposed a good old-fashioned road trip north toward Georgian Bay. But, as author George Weider recounts in his book Blue Mountain, Larway had second thoughts as he and two carloads of his ski club pals passed through Barrie. There wasn’t a speck of snow on the ground, and the boys were growing nervous. Beyond Stayner, though, the mood suddenly shifted. Along a ridgeline, visible across acres of farmland, they could see a band of “whitened hay fields” that spelled out the now-familiar texting acronym LOL. Larway and his friends headed straight for that all-white mirage — and likely “laughed out loud” all day long as they climbed and skied those luscious, powder-filled pistes, runs known today as Blue Mountain Resort’s south L-Hill (Big Baby), centre O-Hill and north L-Hill.

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Blue Magazine

Nothing But Air

(Left) Jozo Weider, founder of Blue Mountain Resorts Limited, during the 1940-41 season. (Lower right) Official opening of the North Chair in February 1966.

Still, even before Larway made his way north with his pals from the Toronto Ski Club, Collingwood locals had discovered the joys of skiing LOL. To those local guys and gals they were simply known as the steep, open fields of local farmers — fun to ski, but littered with rocks, stumps and fallen trees. “You cannot imagine how dangerous the conditions were,” one of the early skiers told author George Weider. “I went schussing down one trail and all of a sudden there was nothing underneath my skis but air.” The man’s fall was so fierce, he hung up his skis for the final time.

By 1935, this hearty group of local skiers — among them John Smart, Bert Brydon and the Doherty brothers — had formed the Blue Mountain Ski Club. Their clubhouse was modest: a back room of Andrew Goodchild’s farmhouse.

In 1936, the Blue Mountain Ski Club sent in Swiss instructor Fritz Loosli to clean up the trails and cut more runs. He was joined by ‘relief workers’ assigned to the job by the Town of Collingwood during the Great Depression. Their cutting of Granny, Schuss and Kandahar remained the main runs at Blue Mountain’s north end for years to come.

competition. He even joined a dance troupe on a pre-war tour of Austria and Germany.

But there was a pragmatic and industrious side to Jozo, too.

In the early 1930s, he ventured deep into Eastern Europe’s Carpathian Range, built himself a cabin, and began a guiding and innkeeping venture. Guests hiked five kilometres to reach Jozo’s inn, and legend has it that when the cabin’s chimney was being built, Jozo asked each patron to assist by carrying at least one brick on their inbound trek!

Jozo’s cabin came under fire during WWII and it was eventually blown up by the German army. By then, in 1939, Weider and his wife Helen had safely emigrated to Canada and were in search of a business venture. They found it in 1940 in a chance meeting with future Senator Peter Campbell, who convinced Weider to set up camp on an escarpment near Collingwood alongside the Blue Mountain and Toronto ski clubs. Campbell and Weider entered into a partnership; together they formed Blue Mountain Resorts Limited.

Enter Toronto Ski Club

Jozo: The Original MacGyver

Meanwhile, Ross Larway and his Toronto Ski Club pals were keeping a close eye on growth at Blue Mountain. It was TSC’s ‘thing’ to fund fledgling ski operations in the outer reaches of Ontario, including Huntsville and Flesherton. They’d been so impressed with their visit to the Collingwood Escarpment in 1935, they gradually agreed to help fund development at Blue Mountain.

The Blue Mountain Resort story is one of hard work, struggle, pluck and savvy, but most of all, innovation. Jozo applied a maverick approach to almost everything: • He purchased Bren gun carriers from army surplus stores to power the rope tows; • He built a 50-metre ski jump by hand out of used steel beams in hopes of hosting international competition; • He installed Collingwood’s first chairlift in 1960; • He ‘MacGyvered’ a rail line to help launch boats in summer in Georgian Bay—a sideline to generate funding; • He created Blue Mountain Pottery to help subsidize his fledgling ski business.

“My parents were very busy,” remembers George Weider, who was raised along with his sisters, Katherine, Anna and Helen, on a farm at the base of the mountain. “They were always on the move, and they were always thinking outside the box.”

George was enlisted often as “tester” of his father’s inventions.

“I remember being urgently called out of class by my dad during

(Above right photos) Early lodges at Blue Mountain Resort were at the centre of entertainment and social gatherings. Skiers aboard the Red Devil sleigh tow (below), c. 1942. The Red Devil name lives on with the Red Devil retail store in the Blue Mountain Village.

After that, things really started to happen. In 1937, the Red Devil sleigh tow was installed on Schuss. An odd, cumbersome contraption that pulled one sleigh up while the other travelled down, the Red Devil transported a total of nine skiers to the top of the Escarpment every ten minutes!

“Sometimes the cable would break and the tow would head downhill,” recalls George Weider, Blue Mountain’s former president. “Skiers would have to scramble off as fast as they could. It was a free-for-all. On one occasion, a runaway sleigh destroyed the tow shack at the bottom!”

In 1940, the esteemed Jackrabbit Johannsen — who had cut many a run on Mont Tremblant and in Quebec’s Laurentians — was paid $100 to enhance Blue Mountain’s trail system. By 1941, both the Blue Mountain and the Toronto ski clubs had built clubhouses and added two rope tows to the operation.

Then along came a man named Jozo Weider.

From the Carpathians to Canada

Joseph (Jozo) Weider was born in 1909 in the mountains of Czechoslovakia and grew to be an adventurous, daring and industrious guy whose wild side revealed itself early. In his teens, he became known for kayaking whitewater rivers, racing his motorbike along the narrow roads of Europe, and skiing so fast that the Czech Army gave him time off for ski training and 6

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(Above right) From the thrills of speeding down the mountain on Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster to enjoying a day at one of Ontario’s best resort courses — Montera Golf (below right) — Blue Mountain has evolved into Ontario’s #1 four-season resort destination.

as private members of Osler Bluff Ski Club. The private Craigleith Ski Club was established on the north side of Blue around 1956.

Alpine Ski Club and Georgian Peaks followed circa 1960.

Throughout this era, Blue Mountain continued to expand with new tows, lodges and inns. In 1960, Jozo Weider proudly launched Ontario’s first chairlift. The double chairs were extended 80 feet in the air — a fact Jozo was fond of advertising. The lift was located between O-Hill and L-Hill. On the eve of Jozo’s death, in a car crash in 1971, he was poised to introduce perhaps one of his most industrious plans yet: one of Canada’s most expansive snowmaking systems.

Taking Up The Torch

In many ways, Jozo’s death brought the Weider family closer together. George Weider, then a history professor at York University, came home to assume the position of president at Blue Mountain Resorts Ltd. Jozo’s sons-in-law, Gord Canning and Don McGillivray, became key decision makers. Together, through the 1970s and 1980s, the family continued to develop Blue Mountain.

“My father gave us a tremendous foothold by what he did,” says George Weider. “Blue Mountain was a major resort by 1971, but he wasn’t finished when he died. He had envisioned Blue Mountain as a four-season, year-round resort, experimenting with a bandshell at the foot of the mountain, a summer chairlift, the building of a Blue Mountain Inn. It was up to us to carry on that vision.”

And carry on they did. Gord Canning, who’d been mentored

by Jozo, emerged as a natural leader and a persistent advocate for change. Through the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, it was under his guidance — with the help of three generations of the Skelton family (Ken, Bill and Dan, now president and COO) — that Blue Mountain was able to establish itself as a significant four-season resort. These decades saw the building of Blue Mountain Inn, the installation of the Great Slide Ride (Blue’s first major summer expansion) and Monterra Golf Course.

(Above) View of the Apple Bowl and Happy Valley areas in the 1960s. Skiers unload from a CN train (right) at the Craigleith Depot Station.

high school to come and test the ski jump,” he marvels. “He once built an automated water-ski tow on the snowmaking pond with a motor, a line and some pulleys. He tried that one out on me, too. My father was always coming up with these ideas.”

George Weider describes another Jozo, as well — a man who served as a genial host to his guests. “Toward the end of his life,” George writes in Blue Mountain, “he was still holding ‘sugaring off ’ parties outside the log snack bar at the South Chair, doling out hot mulled wine or maple syrup from a huge iron kettle.”

Enter Intrawest

Sleigh Rides and Glüwein

Indeed, a look back at Collingwood ski country through the 1940s and ‘50s conjures nostalgic images, not only of hard work and trailblazing, but of sleigh rides and glüwein and parties aboard the Toronto–Craigleith ski train.

Those who were there recall hordes of Torontonians boarding the ski train at Union Station on weekend mornings, arriving at the Craigleith Depot nearly three hours later, hopping on horsedrawn sleighs, and merrily gliding their way to the rope tow at the base of Blue Mountain.

“If you came by car, you made sure you arrived at Blue before the ski train,” remembers Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance Hall of Famer Stan Knowles. “You wanted to get the first ride up the tow before the crowds arrived. Jozo was always at the Gatehouse.

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He greeted every single car personally.”

“On the second level of the Gatehouse was Jozo’s command post,” confirms George Weider in Blue Mountain. “He surveyed slopes with his field glasses and issued instructions on his loudspeaker.”

Beyond Blue Mountain

By the early ‘50s, Collingwood’s ski terrain was gradually expanding beyond Blue Mountain. In 1949, Ontarians Bill Kingsmill and Straun Robertson conceived the idea of a private ski club north of Toronto. They found a site along the escarpment south of Blue Mountain, and by 1950, 93 families had signed on

During the 1990s, Canning struck up a friendship with Gary Raymond, a senior vice-president of Intrawest Corporation, a ski and real estate development company busy with expansions at Mont Tremblant and Whistler.

“Both [Canning and Raymond] were keen golfers,” writes George Weider, “and inevitably in the course of five-hour golf breaks at resort conferences, the subject of [the] involvement of Intrawest with Blue Mountain would come up. When Gord related the opportunity of a partnership to the family, it was time for some soul-searching. The conclusion was that the family had reached the limits of its resources and abilities to capitalize on the opportunities that lay ahead.”

In 1999 a deal was struck between Intrawest and the Weider family. A 50-percent interest in Blue Mountain Resorts was sold to the development company, and the construction of an Intrawest

-style pedestrian-only base village began. A high-speed six-pack chair was installed in 1999. The Village at Blue Conference Centre was built for $14 million. By 2006, Blue Mountain had a total of four high-speed six-packs. Today, Blue Mountain has 36 ski trails, 15 ski lifts, Canada’s largest snowmaking system, more than 40 shops, restaurants and bars in the pedestrian village, and offers a wide selection of on- and off-hill activities year-round.

Silent Thank Yous

George Weider has witnessed much of the expansion of skiing in the Collingwood area — at Blue Mountain and beyond.

Weider says that, to this day, he remains in awe, but he insists it’s not over yet. Even now, in Winter 2012-13, Jozo’s dream has yet to be fully realized.

“After all this,” George writes in Blue Mountain, “I have learned my lesson from history and will not again make the mistake of regarding Blue Mountain today as the final statement.”

Again, let us whisper a silent thank you to that unnamed chocolate salesman who found himself snowed-in back in 1935.

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The Depot Transformation of a Blue Mountain Landmark

By Lori Knowles

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t’s called the Craigleith Heritage Depot Community Interpretation Centre, but most Southern Ontario skiers know it simply as “The Depot.” This turreted building has been a gateway for Collingwood skiers since the 1940s when it hosted ski trains in-bound from Toronto. Railway cars packed with wool-sweatered skiers were met by sleighs drawn by horses — they were carted to the base of the rope tow at Blue Mountain.

All that screeched to a halt in 1960 when the Canadian National Railway (CNR) discontinued regular rail service to Craigleith. The property was put to tender and was bought by Alex MacDonald, a former mayor of nearby Collingwood. In 1967, Kenn and Suyrea Knapman converted the building into a restaurant. But throughout its history and transformations, the Depot has remained a skiers’ landmark, designating the junction of Highway 26 and County Road 19, which leads to Blue Mountain.

The Depot owes its existence to Sir Sanford Fleming, the Scottish-born Canadian engineer and inventor who first proposed a 24-hour clock, invented worldwide standardized time zones, and who surveyed Canada from Ottawa to the Pacific Coast in preparation for a transcontinental rail system.

In 1855, Fleming convinced his family to settle in the area known as Craigleith. The Flemings built a furniture factory and a quarry, and in 1872 sold a portion of their land to the Northern Railway of Canada so that the community could establish a railway station. The Craigleith Railway Station opened in 1878 and was active for 80 years under the jurisdiction of the Northern Railway, the Grand Trunk and Canadian National. Today, the building is one of only two small, turreted stations left in Ontario.

It is the last remaining station of Canada’s first “long-line” railway system.

The historic Craigleith Depot served as the main terminal for skiers arriving from outside the area. The building has since been preserved (right) and now serves as a heritage centre and museum. Photos courtesy of the Craigleith Heritage Depot

Fun Facts

Welcome to Hens-and-Chickens Harbour!

History fun facts from Collingwood, Thornbury and the Town of The Blue Mountains

By Allison Kennedy Davies

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The building was purchased by the Town of the Blue Mountains in 2001 with support from the Craigleith Heritage Committee and the Blue Mountain Watershed Trust Foundation. Their plan for converting the station into a heritage centre was put into action almost immediately. Now open, the museum highlights the Town of the Blue Mountains’ unique cultural, natural, industrial — and, of course, skiing — history.

We know Blue Mountain’s neighbouring towns of Thornbury and Collingwood as popular tourist destinations. But did you know each of these communities has a long, interesting and unique history? Here are a few fun factoids you may or may not know!

ADMIRAL COLLINGWOOD: Incorporated in 1858, the town was named after Admiral Lord Cuthbert Collingwood.

BOTTOMS UP: Collingwood is home to the distillery where Canadian Mist Whisky is produced.

SPLITSVILLE: In 1887, the businessmen of Thornbury petitioned for — and gained — independence from the Town of Collingwood.

INDUSTRIALIZE ME: The Collingwood Shipyards opened on May 24, 1883.

ELVIS: The Collingwood Elvis Festival began in 1995 with 35 tribute artists and is now recognized as one of the largest Elvis Festivals in the world.

AN APPLE A DAY: Thornbury has been an apple industry town since the 1880’s.

In 1905, the Georgian Bay Fruit Growers Association was formed.

Collingwood

WINDY CITY NORTH: Collingwood earned the nickname “Chicago of the North” in the early 1900s because of its importance as a port and railroad terminal.

Thornbury

CRUNCH APPEAL: Of the 700 apple growers in Ontario, 60 are in the Georgian Bay area.

BIG LEAGUES: NHL players Claire Alexander and Reg Noble were both born in Collingwood.

BOOMTOWN: In 1857, the town’s population reached 100 people.

SETTLING DOWN: The first Collingwood settler, George Carney, arrived in 1835.

DIDN’T STICK: The area was originally known as Hens-and-Chickens Harbour because of the one large and four small islands in the bay.

THE NAME GAME: Other early names associated with Collingwood included Hurontario, New Village, Nottawa and Old Village.

BIG BUSINESS: Shipbuilding employed as much as 10% of the labour force from 1883 to 1986.

THE FUNNY PAGES: For Better or For Worse cartoonist Lynn Johnston was born in Collingwood in 1947.

HEAR YE, HEAR YE: The Township of Thornbury was incorporated on April 23, 1833.

AGREE TO DISAGREE: Thornbury was either named after wild thorn berries that grew along the Georgian Bay shoreline or one of England’s three Thornburys.

SHOOT TO SCORE: NHL player Cecil Dillon moved to Thornbury at age six and began his hockey career here, later playing 10 seasons in the NHL. 2 BECOME 1: The Town of The Blue Mountains was formed on January 1, 1998, when the Town of Thornbury and the Township of Collingwood amalgamated.

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Blue Magazine

Black

Men In

Shadows of the Night Preparing for fresh tracks under the stars

By Sharon Weatherall

If they are up early enough in the morning, Blue Mountain guests may catch a glimpse of tired night crews coming off the trails and wonder what they were doing?

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ooking out across the smooth unmarked terrain, one might have a hard time connecting these “Men in Black” with the picture-perfect snow they will ski and snowboard on later — a series of high-quality slopes drawing outdoor enthusiasts from across Canada and further. In fact, about 30 devoted night workers are essential to the success of this multi-million-dollar resort operation.

According to Blue Mountain director of slopes and grounds Steve Spiessman, safety, great snow conditions and overall

presentation are the priorities that ensure guests will be able to maximize their recreational experience. Skilled snowmaking, grooming and maintenance teams work long hours throughout the season to make it happen.

“During each shift, these teams face different challenges and elements, and they need to go out and bring the mountain back to the way it was. A lot of dedication and experience is required. Our snowmakers represent a small team with over a hundred years of experience between them. They have been here a long time and

grown with the operation. They all have a passion for the sport and know what they would want to ski and snowboard on themselves,” says Spiessman, who started working at Blue Mountain 23 years ago.

“We have eight grooming machines and a 16-member team that goes out every night. It takes about 70 to 100 hours to groom all of the slopes and the terrain park. Blue Mountain has the most modern groomers available and uses a Zaugg blower and cutter combination designed to create the perfect pipe. We can build an 18-foot half-pipe or 22-foot super-pipe.”

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Blue Magazine

(Photos above and below) While the resort sleeps, the Men in Black crew work throughout the night to turn the trails at Blue Mountain into a pristine winter playground.

Spiessman explains that the groomers put a lot of thought into the care of Blue Mountain’s 36 trails. Nightly maintenance includes the removal of fallen trees and branches — anything that might keep the slopes from being perfectly smooth.

The mountain buzzes 24 hours per day.

“After a full day of busy use, our maintenance guys put it back together overnight, exactly as it was, so that it meets the resort’s high standards every morning. It doesn’t matter if there was a major event the day before, you would never know it when they are done,” says Spiessman.

Terrain safety checks for ice and other dangers are part of each shift. Blue Mountain seeks to ensure the highest level of guest safety at all times.

“Trails are inspected throughout the night by all departments. Hazards can arise anytime during the night due to weather, snowmaking, snow shaping, and even as the result of guests remaining on the mountain late into the night. Any concerns are passed along to Gary Scarrow and his trail maintenance team. Gary’s team ensures hazardous areas are repaired, marked or closed prior to the next morning’s opening.”

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Crews also monitor temperatures throughout the night. Temperatures below zero Celsius allow the groomers to maintain ideal snow conditions.

“The weather only generally affects the surface of the snow,” says Spiessman, “so it’s no problem for the groomers to mix the underneath snow with the top snow.

There’s an average base of well over two metres, so there’s always good snow on the trail.”

“The challenges can be in timing.

Sometimes conditions aren’t favourable for grooming until early in the morning.

The crews might not get out until 3 am, and then they have to work hard to get over everything. Sometimes we might have to coordinate some late openings, but there’s always a full team ready and waiting to work. While they wait, they are always busy checking trails, drainage and moving snow around.”

The snowmaking guns generally make snow in piles not far from the guns’ location, then groomers move the snow as needed to create good, skiable fall lines and maintain adequate depth across the entire trail.

“All lift load and unload areas are constructed to specific shapes and grades relative to the lift type. Terrain features are all built by moving snow in layers, then shaping it to achieve an ideal long-lasting snow-pack throughout the season,” says Spiessman.

The director of slopes and grounds also pointed out the importance of routine nightly light checks at Blue. Two staff electricians remain on duty until midnight, or later, as projects may dictate.

“As we generally can’t shut lighting systems off for repairs during daily operations, servicing and repairs problems are completed after 10 pm. Lighting is also adjusted and aligned outside of operating hours throughout the season to ensure our trails have the best possible lighting every night.”

Spiessmann adds, “Lift maintenance is staffed similar to our electricians. They perform maintenance and routing services between 10 pm and midnight, or early in the morning, before operations begin.”

Blue Mountain has invested over $10 million to create the largest snowmaking system in Canada.

Automation is a huge factor at Blue Mountain. Seven months of the year are spent preparing the hills, dealing with terrain changes and maintaining automated equipment. When the cold weather comes, everything must be ready for snow.

To do the job, Blue Mountain has invested over $10 million to create the largest automated snowmaking system in Canada. It uses 12 pumps to push water

(Above) Blue Mountain has 8 state-of-the-art grooming machines and one of the most experienced teams in the business that ensure quality conditions and fresh tracks every morning and night.

up the hill at a maximum rate of 13,000 gallons per minute (GPM) — enough water to fill the average size swimming pool in just two and a half minutes. With the recent addition of a new pump, capacity will increase eight percent to 14,000 GPM. Patrick Rosewell is in charge of snowmaking operations at Blue Mountain.

The snowmaking supervisor heads a close-knit team of ten: three fulltime and seven seasonal staff, with five members on nights and four on days. Rosewell says communication among team members, groomers and maintenance staff is critical to ensure quality and success on a day-today basis during the average four-month season.

“Staff use snowmobiles for transportation, and radios and phones to communicate for safety and for knowing where 15

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is designed to be resort specific. Blue Mountain has 460 snowmaking guns, many of which are computer automated.

New this year, the resort has installed 51 two-stage high-temperature guns that will enable the resort to make snow at higher temperatures.

Blue Mountain Snowmaking

Facts

The resort has installed 51 new snowmaking guns that improve its capacity to make snow at higher temperatures.

(Above photos) The Men in Black crew use Snowcats to move and groom the snow on the resort trails.

everyone is. During the night shift, we have more opportunity to make snow, because it’s often colder and allows us to avoid inconveniencing our guests. When we get the chance to run full-out, we take it,” says Rosewell.

Machine-made snow ensures that a consistent quality of snow is maintained, one better suited than natural snow to combating the wear and tear caused by repeated ski traffic. Once the snow on the hill loses its crystalline structure, its molecules become spherical and their ability to lock together diminishes. Adding machine-made snow on a regular basis renews the natural snow, allowing it to bond to itself again and thereby maintain 16

a more optimal skiing surface. Machinemade snow is more resilient and can better survive a thaw. Thus, the resort can rebound from even the worst thaws within 24 to 48 hours after cold temperatures return.

Snow is made by pumping water into a specialized nozzle or “gun,” where it collides with highly pressurized air. The compressed air shatters the stream of water into tiny particles and launches them into an atmosphere of freezing ambient air. The droplets of water freeze into crystals before they hit the ground. At Blue Mountain, 322 tower guns shoot the droplets into the air — higher and further than a traditional “sled gun” — turning them into fully formed flakes before they hit the ground.

Rosewell, who became a snowmaker ten years ago, says each snowmaking system

Operating sophisticated software and equipment and knowing the various systems are all part of regular operations for Blue Mountain’s Men in Black.

“We are currently looking into software upgrades, redesigning our map system, adding more weather stations and improved graphics,” says Rosewell. “We have daily shift meetings to prioritize things that need to be done during the season.

That’s also part of the night operation.

Our challenges as a team are weather — temperature, humidity, wind direction, etc. — and having a system 100-percent ready to meet the challenges we face.”

Due to the influences of Georgian Bay and the Niagara Escarpment, Blue Mountain operates within an unpredictable microclimate. Weather conditions can be variable within just a few kilometres, and constant snowmaking-strategy communications among the Men in Black team is vital to operations. Team members must monitor wind and weather changes constantly.

The outdoor crews dress in black Gore-Tex suits, topped by helmets with lights and communications devices.

Specialized foot and hand coverings allow them to keep warm while working with water and snow in frigid temperatures.

Some members sport radio vests.

“The guys go out to use the ground guns where we want them, and they coordinate with grooming to the get the areas cleaned up for morning,” says Rosewell.

“North end shuts down at 4:30 pm, and the team goes in at high capacity, then works their way across the resort after 10 pm. Day shift maintains snowmaking across the resort, and at 4:30 pm they blanket the north end, maintaining a

12-hour window across the property.

“Downtime is critical. There are 33 miles of underground pipe, and in a typical year we periodically encounter leaks, from small to large. Maintenance problems have to be dealt with immediately using the problemsolving skills and experience of everyone involved. We have to ensure that the system operates at full capacity during the winter months. It requires massive coordination between operations, snowmaking, event staff and grooming to ensure the success of the events taking place and to prevent any negative effect on skiers.”

Water for snowmaking can be distributed to any one of 520 hydrants or guns located across more than 250 skiable acres of terrain. But in the time it takes a snowmaking team to get the system up to capacity, weather conditions can shift, creating challenges for the team.

At Blue Mountain, the development of a new remotely controlled valve technology makes the job of snowmaking easier.

The resort’s snowmaking towers can now be turned on and off with the click of a mouse, allowing staff to take advantage of very brief weather windows. This year, four new automated flood lines, totaling 4,300 linear feet, with computer-operated valves, will improve efficiency, enable early opening and maintain a better base throughout the season.

Rosewell notes, “You can pump as much

water as you want, but unless you have good snow, you don’t have quality. Snow is judged on a scale of 1 to 5. Using years of experience and typical snowmaking standards, we know that 2 is good skiing and 4 is good base snow, while 1 is dry and 5 is wet and sloppy. The staff wants to make snow of the same quality they would choose to use themselves.”

Today’s mountain resort operations require a broad base of skills — electrician, plumber, computer operator, engineer, equipment operator — and these skills must be used under tough conditions.

Blue Mountain’s knowledgeable, highly experienced snowmaking, grooming and maintenance teams push the art of ski operations to its limits, working with some of the newest and best technology in the industry to create the best skiing conditions in the province.

When they come off the mountain each morning, weary and chilled from a long night, Blue’s Men in Black check in at the maintenance board, communicate with day shift and confirm what events and activities will be taking place. As they head home to rest up, they are already mentally preparing themselves for the tasks that must be done to whip today’s trails back into pristine shape for tomorrow’s new and returning guests. It’s a job that requires foresight, commitment and dedication throughout the season.

• Blue Mountain boasts the largest snowmaking system in Canada, capable of delivering 98 percent coverage of fresh snow to all trails.

• 460 snowmaking guns fire water droplets into the air at a rate of 14,000 gallons per minute.

This state-of-the-art system, paired with their dedicated team of groomers, means stellar first tracks and a consistent base of snow all season long.

• Snowmaking upgrades have improved the resort’s capacity to make more snow at warmer temperatures and Blue Mountain can now start making snow at temperatures as high as -2°C. • The mountain is groomed overnight and ready for the morning’s first run; and at the end of the day it is returned to fantastic conditions for night skiers and riders.

• Blue’s unique double-pass, angled raking system grooms each trail to the best possible conditions.

• Blue Mountain’s efficient system returns run-off water into Georgian Bay during the annual spring melt.

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Blue Magazine

— y o u ’ l l f in d i t in t h e v i l l a g e —

16 f

f8 f1 The Season’s

Hottest Trends

f COLD IN

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Weather Gear

Whether your priority is to stay warm, to set trends or simply to look good on and off the mountain this winter, you’ll find the latest in outdoor gear and apparel at the more than 20 retail stores located in Blue Mountain Village and throughout the resort. Here’s a showcase of some of the latest must-have winter clothing and equipment — all available right here at Blue Mountain Resort.

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Women All-mountain freeriders All mountain confidence and exploring inspiration for wom Rockette 90 is for skiers looking to start exploring new terr develop their off-piste skills, with a light weight core and fo early rise tail.

Key consumer benefit

Precise & stable on groomed piste

Playful on the whole mountain

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Features

Specific features PULSE PAD QR code

Construction & Core Full Woodcore Semi Sandwich

Edges Total edge reinforcement Wide edges

Article number

at Lifted) The go-anywhere Feelgood Flying V is a spring-loaded blend of camber and rocker — for the best of both worlds. This TrueFlex product was designed by women for women, using the best technology for a top-of-the-range ride. Burton’s signature FrostBite edges and Lightning Bolts ensure insane, energized edge hold. 15. Columbia Men’s Bugaboot Omni-Heat Electric (Available at Columbia) The Bugaboot Omni-Heat Electric delivers instant warmth via advanced electronics and state-of-the-art thermal technology to ensure you stay warm and comfortable in the coldest conditions. These boots come with removable batteries, charger, cables and adapters. You can even charge them through your laptop’s USB connection! 16. X-Socks Ski Metal (Available at Red Devil) The X-Socks Ski Metal features a finely knitted blend of high-tech materials and merino wool. This innovative ski sock reflects body warmth and keeps your feet at the perfect temperature while enabling optimum power transmission to the ski. A cleverly devised system of protectors keeps toes, heels, Achilles tendons, ankles and shins free of abrasions. 17.

Canada Goose Coats (Available at Red Devil and Birch & Co.) A stylishly modern take on our classic parkas, these new designs are slim, long, light and provide greater coverage for Ontario winters. Canada Goose has been a leader in extreme weather gear for over 50 years. Wherever people need protection from the elements — with top quality and iconic style — you’ll find Canada Goose.

Rocker All Terrain Rocker Early Rise Tail

Flying V (Available at Lifted)The Custom Flying V is the ultimate snowboard for park laps or for shredding powder — or even for cutting deep ruts in the corduroy! It turns mountains to molehills with its blend of camber and rocker.

This one-board answer to all terrain gets its added pop from Squeezebox core-profiling and its awesome edge hold from Burton’s FrostBite edges and Lightning Bolts. 11. Men’s Eira Jacket (Available at Lifted) Designed in Canada, the men’s Eira jacket features an exclusive new yarn-dyed micro-dot poly/rayon fabric that’s soft but super tough. Eira’s unique 20,000 mm waterproof/10,000 g breathability makes this jacket both weatherproof and sweat-wicking. Eira jackets provide maximum warmth with minimum thickness. 12. Salomon Rocker² 90 and Rockette 90 (Available at Lifted) These all-mountain freeriders deliver all-mountain confidence and the inspiration to explore new terrain. Rocker² 90 and Rockette 90 are for skiers looking to develop their off-piste skills. They have a lightweight core and a forgiving early rise tail, with incredible flotation, maneuverability and accessibility, as well as the agility required for tricks and easy landings in switch, drift and slide. 13. Kombi Radiator Glove (Available at Lifted and Red Devil) The Radiator heated glove/mitt is the latest technological innovation from Kombi. The simple push of a button on the thumb activates the glove’s internal heating mechanism. Sold with two rechargeable Thermologic lithium-ion power packs and a plug-in charger with AC/DC adapter. 14. Women’s Burton Feelgood Flying V (Available Weight

allows you to adjust the upper and lower zones of your boot independently for a dialed-in fit. Burton’s new lightweight outsole boasts 270° airbag cushioning for unstoppable impact protection. 6. Seirus Soft Shell Combodana (Available at Lifted, Red Devil and Blue Basin) This new face mask/bandana combo designed by Seirus features a 100% waterproof/windproof fleece-lined 4-way-stretch softshell fabric, breathe-easy mouth holes and adjustable Velcro closure for true warmth while out on the slopes. 7. Sorel Joan of Arctic Premium (Available at Red Devil) This boot features a seam-sealed waterproof construction and a waterproof full-grain and suede upper. The removable recycled-felt inner boot ensures that feet stay warm, dry and comfortable. Perfect for a winter walk, shoveling the driveway or a backcountry trek through the snow. 8. Women’s Burton Emerald Speed Zone (Available at Lifted) The Emerald boot’s lightning-fast Speed Zone lacing system enables precise adjustment of upper and lower zones in seconds. The new Lock-Up cuff keeps your foot secure, while Plush Cuff 1.0 technology hugs your calf perfectly.

The Emerald’s liners are heat-moldable for a custom fit. 9. Salomon Quest Max 100 Ski Boot (Available at Lifted) This high-performance all-mountain boot boasts Salomon’s patented Twinframe technology, combined with a unique and effective hike/ride mechanism, to let you access the best of the mountain. Other features include backbone release, 360° custom shell, 24 mm oversized pivot and My Custom Fit Pro liners. 10. Men’s Burton Custom

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1. Smith I/O Goggle (Available at Lifted, Red Devil and Blue Basin) The I/O goggle continues to redefine the market. The I/O’s easily interchangeable lenses, amazing field of view, impressive comfort and fog-free optical technology make it the best goggle out there. Key features include a spherical Carbonic-X lens with TLT optics, 5x anti-fog inner lens and 3-layer DriWix face foam. 2. Sorel Kids’ Yoot Pac Nylon Boot (Available at Columbia Kids) A classic Sorel waterproof boot with seam-sealed construction. Whatever the weather, the 9 mm recycled-felt inner boot keeps kids’ feet warm. And no matter how hard they play, the removable, washable liner makes it easy to ensure that they’ll have a warm, dry boot the next morning. 3. Giro Seam Helmet (Available at Lifted, Red Devil and Blue Basin) The Seam is the perfect all-mountain helmet. With its superior fit, feather-light weight and improved Thermostat and Stack Vent system, this helmet will keep your temperature under control, your goggles clear and your comfort level at an all-time high. 4. Columbia Youth and Adult Midweight Baselayer (Available at Columbia and Columbia Kids) With sweat-wicking inserts and thermal reflectivity for lightweight warmth, this midweight top is the ideal all-day base layer for aerobic activity. Columbia’s sleek new ergonomic Baselayer series offers maximum warmth, minimum weight, and zoned performance for optimal comfort. 5. Men’s Burton Ruler Speed Zone (Available at Lifted) The Ruler offers total comfort right out of the box. No breaking in required. Speed Zone lacing

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Blue Magazine

You’ve spent the day on the slopes, putting in countless runs, conquering the moguls and riding the terrain park. You’ve truly earned your après-ski experience.

Let’s face it, one of the best parts of any ski resort setting is its après scene. From hot chocolate to cold beer, live music to pampering spa experiences, Blue Mountain guests can choose from an incredible array of après options available in the Blue Mountain Village and the nearby towns of Collingwood and Thornbury. Read on for some great ideas on how to spend your time off the hill.

C

The adventure Begins after your l ast run

By Allison Kennedy Davies

hances are you worked up a serious appetite on the slopes, possibly even a persistent thirst.

Fortunately, there are lots of café, bar and restaurant options within walking distance of the Silver Bullet lift — even in ski boots! Located right in the heart of the Village, and visible from the Silver Bullet, is Rusty’s at Blue. If the weather is warm, there is nothing better than après-ski time on the patio. Rusty’s serves up signature barbecue, cold beer and a wide variety of family-friendly choices.

Another end-of-the-day option is to head to Jozo’s for a classic Blue Mountain experience. Jozo’s hosts live music most afternoons and evenings and is popular with locals and guests alike. Located in the same lodge as Jozo’s, the Pottery Restaurant boasts a casual atmosphere and a menu that ranges from seafood and steak to great children’s selections. The Pottery Restaurant is always a good choice.

The Village has an impressive variety of restaurants and bars, enough to suit any taste. Fire up your taste buds with hot wings and cold beer at Wild Wing.

Enjoy the sushi bar experience at Kikaku Sushi Bar. Visit C&A Steak Company for a USDA Prime steak and a bottle of wine, carefully chosen to complement your meal. Enjoy big-city cuisine on the mountain at Oliver & Bonacini.

Created by über-restauranteurs Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini, this is the destination for a sophisticated culinary experience.

Looking for something quick and easy?

Check out the Pita Pit, Beavertails, Sunset Grill or the Village Market. For classic pizza, visit Firehall Pizza. For great weekly specials and an unbeatable patio view,

(Right) Blue Mountain offers a wide assortment of après-ski entertainment and dining.

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When the sun retreats, the cold nights invite you to come out and pl ay

check out Copper Blues Bar & Grill.

For traditional Italian cuisine, stop by Magnone’s Italian Kitchen. For Irish stew and a pint of Guinness, MJ Byrne’s Irish Pub is the place. And get your Greek on at Tholos. Later, enjoy the extensive drink selection at Twist Martini & Wine Lounge.

Maybe all you desire is the perfect latte and a seat by the Village campfire. If so, visit Starbucks or the Royal Majesty Espresso Bar Bakery, then pull up a Muskoka chair and relax.

For a complete list of dining and entertainment venues, visit bluemountain.ca/dining. dance the night away

If you’re looking for a night out, the possibilities are diverse and enticing. Jozo’s hosts live music most nights, as does MJ Byrne’s Irish Pub. Avalanche @ Blue offers the true Blue nightclub experience, with its awesome sound-and-lighting system, live DJs, drink specials and theme nights.

At Rusty’s at Blue, you can watch the game or hit the floor and dance to the music of live bands or DJs. Kaytoo Restaurant and Bar also invites you to dance the night away. And Tholos offers an After Dark 22

experience with DJ, drinks and dancing until 2 am on weekends.

Visit the bluemountainvillage.ca website for a list of weekly resort activities.

A shopaholic’s Shangri-la

Who says a ski vacation can’t also be an inspiring shopping experience? At Blue, you can upgrade your goggles, select some new lingerie, find the perfect pair of sunglasses, and buy toys for the kids, gifts for the grandparents and chocolates for the neighbours. With over 20 unique retail stores located right in the Village, you can shop till you drop and never be more than a few minutes’ walk from the relaxing embrace of the chalet. Whether you want to treat yourself to a new look or locate the classic Blue Mountain souvenir, you’ll find what you’re after right here.

For fashion and fun, visit Tara n’Tula, Birch & Co. and Echo Trends, then underscore your new outfit with a little something from Tingle Lingerie & Luxuries or Azul Jewellery Boutique.

Looking for ski and snowboard gear and attire? Check out the Blue Basin Snow Shop, BoardSports, Columbia Sportswear Company, Red Devil Sports and Lifted.

For yoga-inspired active wear, stop by One Tooth Activewear. Your snazzy new shades can be found at Envy Eyewear.

And natural bath and beauty products from the South of France are easily procured at L’Occitane en Provence.

Bright’s Gallery is renowned for its impressive selection of Canadian art. And for the perfect gift, be sure to visit Jinjer, the Great Canadian Gift Company or the Olde Stanton Store.

Shopping for the kids? Check out Columbia Kids Sportswear Company and Jack & Maddy—A Toy Store. And why not capture some memories of this fun-filled family outing? Have your photograph taken in 18th- and 19th-century costumes at the Royal Photo Studio, then satisfy your sweet tooth at Hatley Scoops, the Happy Valley Candy Co. or the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. outdoor adventures

If you’re looking for even more action, head over to the Mill Pond skating rink.

With skate rentals available — even children’s skating aids for true beginners — you can take the whole family out under the lights for an evening skate.

To explore the bush and trails around the resort, check out Activity Central and ask about the Moonlight Snowshoe Tours provided by Free Spirit Tours. Their guides will tailor a snowshoe tour to your group’s ability level and ambitions. Activity Central also offers daily Columbia Guided Hikes along resort trails, with snowshoe rentals available.

Just up the hill from Blue Mountain, you’ll find Scenic Caves Nature Adventures.

Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tours via the 128-metre (420 ft) suspension bridge, with amazing views of both Collingwood and Georgian Bay. Need even more thrills? Head over to Ridge Runner, Ontario’s first mountain coaster, located just West of the Silver Bullet lift. Running on over a kilometre of downhill track, carts can reach speeds of up to 42 kilometres per hour (26 mph). Speed is rider controlled. Take it easy and enjoy the magnificent view.

(Blue Mountain lodging guests receive discounted tickets.)

For all your winter activity options, swing by Activity Central in the Village or visit activitycentral.ca for one-stop access to an incredible range of on- and off-resort winter activities, including snowmobile tours, winter caving, toboggan tours, ATV tours, ice fishing and scenic sleigh rides. family fun

If you haven’t worn the kids out yet, head over to Plunge! Aquatic Centre. Plunge! offers the ultimate four-season all-ages aqua experience. With indoor/outdoor pools, you can watch skiers on the slopes while you enjoy the heated pools, rope swing, hot tub, docks, slides and splash pad.

Feeling crafty? The Village’s Crock-aDoodle Studio is the perfect place to create your own unique Blue Mountain souvenir.

Choose from a selection of ready-to-paint pottery that you decorate yourself. The kilns are fired every night, and you can pick up most pieces by 4 pm the next day — or have your masterpiece shipped right to your door.

If your family needs a movie night out, hit the Galaxy Cinema in Collingwood

or try the Westin Trillium House, where family movies are often shown on weekends.

Unwind in style

If you’ve made it through this list of après-ski activities, you’ve definitely earned the right to unwind in style. If your legs ache from skiing, shopping, dancing or all for the above, head over to the Kalola Boutique and Spa, the Lilly Pad or the Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain. Book a massage or spa treatment, or enjoy the unique, award-winning Scandinavian outdoor baths. Not to be missed! Visitors can spend hours leisurely soaking in a variety of hot and cold pools, steam rooms and saunas, all surrounded by natural forest. For more information on the Blue Mountain spa experience, visit bluemountain.ca/spa.

Many Blue Mountain accommodations also feature outdoor pools and hot tubs that are heated to perfection during the winter months. What better place to relax, unwind and watch tomorrow’s fresh snow arrive?

There’s still more!

There are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in the Village and beyond.

Ask Blue Mountain staffers about their favourite spots or stop by Activity Central for the lowdown on specific activities in the area. Explore, investigate and enjoy!

(Top right) Shop till you drop with more than 20 retail stores in the Blue Mountain Village.

(Bottom Right) Plunge! Off-hill thrills for the whole family, from speed to water adventures.

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Photo Credit: Josh Macdonald at JOSH MAC MEDIA

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f you experience a little bit of nervousness about heading to the park, just remember that even the best riders were standing in your boots at one time.

And if you’ve ever lapped the Badlands Terrain Park at Blue Mountain, you’ve probably seen Jack Daniel Bernstein and Kevin Konings out there throwing down some of the biggest, most technical tricks with the cleanest style. Not surprising when you consider that, between the two of them, they have more than 30 years of riding experience.

At one time, they were newbies in the terrain park. Bernstein didn’t even make it into the park until he had already been riding for six years. Up until that time, he had just been working on his riding skills on beginner runs around the resort. “Once I had done that for about six years, I tried the terrain park at Blue and loved it right away,” he says. “Although I wasn’t very good, I still tried my best, which was very hard.”

After seeing one of the local riders gap the jump at the bottom of the park, Bernstein was hooked. “My first memory from the Blue Mountain terrain park was watching Jesmond Dubeau gap the hip they used to have at the bottom of the hill.

After that, I said to myself, ‘One day I want to be able to do that.’ I was amazed and very much intimidated by all of the good riders and such big features,” says Bernstein.

Bernstein rode the park a couple times each season until he was able to join the Ravens Snowboard Club. He says that’s when he really started to enjoy the park and began learning new tricks.

Kevin Konings, on the other hand, had a different introduction to the park.

As soon as he strapped on a board, all he could think about was hitting jumps and doing tricks. “I would make jumps at my local toboggan hill, and when I was thirteen, I started going to the terrain parks at the resorts,” says Konings.

While he had a different introduction to the park, Konings’ first impression of his new surroundings was the same as Bernstein’s. “It was so cool to ride a park with a variety of different terrain and a super-long half-pipe. There were also a bunch of really cool features then. One that stood out was a giant culvert that you rode through and then launched out of it.

Needless to say, I couldn’t wait to go back!”

Through coaching, Konings is now

perfect places to hone your skills if you’re looking to take your riding to the next level this winter. There’s a feature to suit every ability level, from the small ride-on rails to the extra-large pro-jumps. Nothing compares to the feeling you get when you land a new trick, but it’s always important to keep the golden rule of park riding in mind. “Always ride within your comfort zone and ride with control,” says Konings. “If you stay safe, you’re bound to have a great time.”

I said to myself,

‘One day I want to be able to do that.’

— Jack Daniel Bernstein sharing his love of park riding with the next generation of snowboarders and skiers.

In his new role, he sees a lot of people who are intimidated by the advanced riders who train in the park on a regular basis.

“From coaching and meeting riders at a beginner level, I’ve learned that many of them are afraid that other riders will make fun of them for not being good enough,” he says. “But you have to start somewhere, and once you get passed that, you can begin to have a great time in the park.”

Konings says the most important thing for all park riders to do is to take a few laps through the park to check out the features and get comfortable with the setup.

“Just cruise around and observe what the other riders are doing. Don’t go and try the biggest features right off the bat.

Work your way up from the smaller ride-on rails, and if you want to hit a jump, work your way up from the smallest one in the park.”

Blue Mountain’s Greatest Hits and Badlands Terrain Parks are the

(Left) Jack Daniel Bernstein: Jack started snowboarding 12 years ago at the age of seven.

It took him a little while to make it into the park, but he’s now one of the top amateur riders in Ontario. Jack rides for DC Snowboards, Von Zipper Eyewear and Brass Knuckle Therapy.

(Below) Kevin Konings: Konings has been playing the game for a long time, and he’s now passing his knowledge on to the next generation of rippers through his own coaching program. Kevin rides for Forum Snowboards, Foursquare Outerwear, Meltdown Snowboard Shop, Oakley, Red Bull and Brass Knuckle Therapy.

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Blue 365 Magazine

L

et’s face it, snow and cold weather aren’t for everyone.

While southern Georgian Bay is widely known as the ski and snowboard capital of Ontario, over the years the region has evolved into a four-season tourist destination with a wide selection of summer activities — and Blue Mountain Resort is at the heart of it all. The resort has transformed into a true year-round choice for vacationers and boasts more than 20 different activities during the summer months. With its focus on diversity, active living and outdoor recreation, Blue Mountain Resort offers something for every interest and every vacation style. Here are some highlights to help inspire your next summer holiday: family getaways

When the Snow Melts unforgettable summer escapes for families, friends and couples

By colLin matanowitsch

Blue Mountain is a place for kids of all ages. Spend the morning on the waterslide and in the pools at Plunge! Aquatic Centre, then enjoy a scenic gondola ride and hike the peak of the mountain in the afternoon. The Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, Cascade Putting Course, pottery painting at Crock A Doodle Pottery, and the new Woodlot Low Ropes Course are favourites for youngsters, and there are plenty of dining and lodging options suited for families of all sizes. In addition, Blue Mountain Village is also home to a diverse and exciting slate of summer celebrations and events. If that’s not enough, Scenic Caves Nature Adventures practically overlooks the resort, and the private Blue Mountain beach and Wasaga Beach are just a short drive away. couples retreat

Need a little RR&R (rest, relaxation and romance)? Blue Mountain is a perfect place to create memories with your significant other. Take an exhilarating bike tour along the Georgian Trail, then spend the night on the dock of the Mill Pond watching fireworks under the stars. Visits to Kalola Spa or the renowned Scandinave Spa are unforgettable.

And why not tour Georgian Hills or Coffin Ridge wineries?

Luxury accommodations and a vast variety of dining options make Blue Mountain the perfect base camp for your romantic adventure. friends’ weekend

Blue Mountain Resort has long been a popular girls’ retreat and guys’ getaway. Whether your crew is looking for world-class spas, dockside yoga, and countless dining and shopping options or Monterra Golf, mountain biking and Timber Challenge High Ropes Course, Blue Mountain has all the ingredients for a one-of-a-kind weekend. Spend a day on our private beach, experience the Georgian Bay Golf Trail or the unique Apple Pie Trail, then enjoy evenings in the Village as the pubs, clubs and nightlife come alive.

Reserve your next summer vacation at www.bluemountain.ca/lodging

Summer Favourites Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster The only Mountain Coaster in Ontario, Ridge Runner reaches speeds of 42 kph/26 mph. Riders control their own speeds, and independent open-air carts seat up to two passengers. The Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster runs year-round and is the perfect family experience.

Timber Challenge High Ropes One of Canada’s largest ropes courses, Blue Mountain’s Timber Challenge features 75 elements and overlooks beautiful Georgian Bay from vistas more than 15 m/50 ft above the forest floor.

Kaytoo Restaurant & Bar Patio Overlooking the beautiful Mill Pond, the Kaytoo patio is the perfect venue for a cold beverage or tasty meal on a beautiful summer afternoon or evening.

Open-Air Gondola Enjoy one of the most spectacular views in Ontario as you ride to the top of the mountain (and down) on this unique open-air gondola. It’s the perfect place for a romantic kiss!

Monterra Golf Challenge yourself with a round at one of Ontario’s most beautiful and popular resort courses. It features rolling bentgrass fairways, razorback mounding, 86 bunkers, creeks, ponds, elevated tee shots, and all carts are GPS equipped.

Hummer Tours Not your average scenic tour! Buckle up for an extreme Hummer experience on the backcountry trails. Perfect for adventure seekers craving heavy horsepower and off-road fun.

Scenic Caves Nature Adventures Explore this labyrinth of caves and crevices atop the Niagara Escarpment and walk across Ontario’s longest suspension bridge. With its exciting blend of family fun to eco adventure, Scenic Caves offers thrills for all ages.

Salsa at Blue Festival From June 21 to 23, celebrate Latin culture with pulsating music, passionate dancing, fiery foods and themed children’s activities. This crowd-pleasing event is one you’ll want to add to your “to do” list for the coming spring season.

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The Future of Blue

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remember seeing the blueprints,” says Dan Skelton, president and COO of Blue Mountain Resort. “Jozo was way ahead of his time.”

Jozo Weider died in 1971, but more than 40 years after his death the legendary entrepreneur’s dreams are still being brought to fruition, with guidance from Jozo’s family, son George Weider and son-in-law Gord Canning, along with the Skelton family, who have worked in resort operations for three generations.

Now leading development, Dan Skelton has navigated Blue through one of its most dynamic periods yet. This summer, the resort unveiled an unprecedented four attractions — Timber Challenge High Ropes, Woodlot Low Ropes, Cascade Putting Course and Mountaintop Segway Tours. These additions have morphed Blue Mountain into one of Ontario’s largest four-season resorts, with a wide-selection of on-mountain attractions, including the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, Plunge! Aquatic Centre, Climbing Wall, Mountain Biking, Monterra Golf and Tennis, even a private beach along the shores of Georgian Bay. Plus, Blue is moving ahead with more exciting plans for the future.

Skelton says it’s all part of a steady, necessary growth strategy that Blue Mountain planners laid out years ago when they joined forces with Intrawest Resorts. “For us, it’s a matter of diversity,” he explains. “Our winter business is important and what we are more commonly known for, but there is also opportunity for growth in the green season. Simply put, developing summer activities diversifies the business, and provides our guests with a broader experience.”

Studying Blue’s past green-season traffic patterns, Skelton’s team realized too many visitors were wandering the Village with too little to do. “We were relying on third parties to keep people entertained — spas, Hummer tours — and it wasn’t

A Mountain of New Experiences: It’s What Jozo would have wanted

By Lori Knowles

When the late Jozo Weider began to develop his Blue Mountain dream back in 1941, he envisioned so much more than a ski lift and a lodge for his resort of the future. Jozo imagined a dynamic ski area in winter and a recreational playground in summer, with housing, shopping, restaurants and all sorts of four-season action.

4

Wide assortment of off-hill attractions year-round... and more to come!

(1) Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster — an exhilarating ride down the mountain.

(2) Thrill-seekers will love the new Timber Challenge High Ropes & Woodlot Low Ropes.

(3) Mountaintop Segway Tours — a great way to explore. (4) Cascade Putting Course — a challenging-but-fun activity for the whole family or group. (5) Challenge yourself with a round at one of Ontario’s most popular resort courses — Monterra Golf.

(6) Enjoying the view from the top of Blue Mountain’s slopes.

4

5

enough, so we came up with a few adventures to engage people and keep them onsite.”

Skelton’s team began searching out summer adventures that were outdoor-based, active and energetic, yet both easy and difficult enough to attract all ages and all levels of athletic ability.

“We needed to find activities,” he says, “that appeal to grandkids and grandparents and everyone in between.” They settled on the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster nearly two years ago, then added a putting course, two adventure ropes courses, segway tours and eventually, more exciting green season offerings.

But Blue Mountain Resort’s development plans don’t end there. Its Greater Toronto market just keeps growing, and Blue Mountain is determined to deliver in its role as a major GTA destination resort. More on-mountain attractions are in the offing, along with expansion of the resort’s conference facilities and its south-end ski terrain.

Long-term plans for the south area — known to locals as ‘The Orchard’ — would see the resort open five to seven new trails, with a high-speed chairlift and perhaps a new base lodge. The resort is also in the early stages of building a connecting trail between Happy Valley and the North Pod to improve the movement of skiers and snowboarders across the mountain. In addition, a new run is being mapped on the far north side of the property beside Kandahar trail.

Under Skelton, the resort has placed a greater emphasis on improving the renowned Badlands Terrain Park. Freestyle skiers and snowboarders can look forward to new features, elements and events each year. “Our goal is to improve the experience for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, and to continue to expand our terrain to provide diversity to our guests,” explains Skelton.

“Of course, one of our priorities is to continue to upgrade the resort’s industry-leading snowmaking infrastructure to adapt to changes in climate and environment.”

What will Blue Mountain look like in 20 years? “You will see a fully evolved Village that has grown by about 30 percent, more outdoor activities that emcompass our natural environment, and a year-round travel destination unique to Canadians.” Skelton promises. A resort of the future, just as Jozo Weider envisioned.

29

2012/13 Winter Trail Map blue Mountain

Stats

Summit Elevation • Approximately 452 metres (1,482 ft) above sea level Average Annual Snowfall • 279 cm (110 in) • 98% snowmaking coverage • Largest snowmaking system in Canada — 52,995 litres (14,000 gal) per minute • Vertical drop of 220 metres (720 ft) • 4 kilometres (2 1/2 miles) wide • Longest run: 1,220 metres (3/4 mile) 15 Lifts • Including 4 high-speed 6 person lifts, 5 magic carpets • Uphill lift capacity: 21,690 skiers per hour Terrain Parks • 2 terrain parks and 1 half-pipe

B Guest Services Tickets & Rentals

Produced by Buchanan Associates 10/12

8

Please Read

Notice to ALL users of these Facilities Exclusion Of Liability — Assumption of Risk — Jurisdiction.

These Conditions Will Affect Your Legal Rights. Please Read Carefully!

As a condition of use of the resort facilities, the Ticket Holder assumes all risk of personal injury, death or property loss resulting from any cause whatsoever including but not limited to the risks, dangers and hazards of skiing, snowboarding, and all other recreational activities; the use of lifts; collision with natural or man-made objects or with skiers, snowboarders or other persons; changes or variations in the terrain, surface or sub-surface, including changes due to man-made snow; variable and difficult snow conditions; travel within or beyond the authorized trail boundaries; or negligence, breach of contract, or breach of statutory duty of care on the part of Blue Mountain Resorts Limited and Intrawest ULC and their respective directors, officers, employees, volunteers, agents, independent contractors, subcontractors, representatives, sponsors, successors and assigns (hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Resort Operator”). The Ticket Holder agrees that the Resort Operator shall not be liable for any such personal injury, death or property loss and releases the Resort Operator and waives all claims with respect thereto. The Ticket Holder agrees that any litigation involving the Resort Operator will be brought within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of Ontario and any rights, duties and obligations as between the parties will be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of Ontario.

THE RESORT OPERATOR’S LIABILITY IS EXCLUDED BY THESE CONDITIONS. PLEASE ADHERE TO THE Alpine RESPONSIBILITY CODE AND BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY IN ALL ACTIVITIES.

30

Alpine Responsibility Code There are elements of risk that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Regardless of how you decide to use the slopes, always show courtesy to others. Please adhere to the code listed below and share with others the responsibility for a safe outdoor experience.

1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid o ther people or objects.

2. People ahead of you have the right-of-way. It is your r esponsibility to avoid them.

3. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.

4. Before starting downhill or merging onto a trail, look uphill and yield to others.

5. If you are involved in or witness a collision or accident, y ou must remain at the scene and identify yourself to the Ski Patrol.

6. Always use proper devices to help prevent runaway equipment.

7. Observe and obey all posted signs and warnings.

8. Keep off closed trails and closed areas.

9. You must not use lifts or terrain if your ability is impaired t hrough use of alcohol or drugs.

10. You must have sufficient physical dexterity, ability and k nowledge to safely load, ride and unload lifts. If in doubt, ask the lift attendant.

11. Parents or guardians are responsible for their children’s a ctivities on resort property.

12. Avoid going through ski and snowboard classes. The same goes for race courses, unless you are a participant.

Skiable Terrain • 102 hectares (251 acres) • 36 ski and snowboard trails • 25 trails available for night skiing Trail Difficulty Ratings 27% Beginner 27% Intermediate 46% Advanced

This is a pArtial List.

Know the Code — Be Safety Conscious.

It is Your Responsibility!

Failure to adhere to the Code will result in the suspension of trail privileges.

Be Aware.

Please Ski & Ride with Care.

Blue Mountain Ticket Removal Policy To help maintain courteous skiing/snowboarding at the resort, certain Blue Mountain personnel have been given the authority to warn skiers/snowboarders and, if necessary, remove their tickets or season passes, for out of control or irresponsible skiing/snowboarding, being intoxicated or for any other act which endangers the individual skier/snowboarder or anyone else.

31

2012/13 WinterGuide

2012/13

WinterGuide

Lift Tickets

Adult

9

Early Bird

$599 Adult $449 Youth/Senior

– 4:30

12:30 – 10

5x7 Pass

Lite Pass

®

pm

4:30 – 10 $199 —

pm

Night

(Up to November 1, 2012)

am

$59 $42

Afternoon/Night $59 $42

(All prices + tax)

Super Pass

Day/Night

$149 —

9

am

– 10

$45 $40

pm

$69 $52

pm

Regular

Beginner Day/Night $40

$739 $299 $249

$589 Youth/Senior

9

Tiny Tykes

Mar 18 – Close

FREE with Adult Super Pass purchase

$10 with Adult 5x7® Pass purchase

$10 with Adult Lite Pass purchase

Mon – Fri 9 am – 10 pm Mon – Thurs Sat & Sun 4:30 pm – 10 pm Sun Excludes access between 9 am and 4:30 from Monday, December 24, 2012 to Friday, January 4, 2013.

pm

am

– 10

9 am – 10 pm 4:30 pm – 10 pm

Excludes access between Sunday, December 23, 2012 to Sunday, January 6, 2013, and February 17-18, 2013.

Double Down $79 Two Day/Night lift tickets, valid anytime during the 2012/13 season and fully transferable.

Limit of 2 per customer. Available until December 13, 2012.

Adult ages 18 – 64, Youth ages 6 – 7, Senior ages 65+, Tiny Tykes ages 5 and under as of September 1, 2012. Night skiing is scheduled to start Thursday, December 13, 2012 and end Sunday, March 17, 2013. All rates and dates subject to change without notice.

Discover Skiing and Snowboarding Packages

(All prices + tax)

Adult 13+ Junior 12 & Under Ski Packages • Day/Night with a helmet $45 (8:30 am – 10 pm) • Day/Night (8:30 am – 10

$40

• Night with a helmet $39 (4:30 – 10 pm) • Night (4:30 – 10

Mini-Ski Packages

• Day/Night (8:30 am – 10

$40

$34

Snowboard Packages • Day/Night with a helmet $45 (8:30 am – 10 pm)

• Night (4:30 – 10

$31

$40 pm)

• Night with a helmet $39 (4:30 – 10 pm)

Blue Mountain’s Snowmaking Benefits: • Earlier season starts and later closures • Improved consistency of conditions • Rebound from even the worst thaws within 24 - 48 hours after cold temperatures return • Machine-made snow is more resilient than natural snow, more of it survives a thaw and lasts longer into the spring • Machine-made snow is more dense, and once it’s groomed into a packed powder surface, feels every bit as good to a skier or snowboarder

$25

pm)

• Day/Night (8:30 am – 10

Fun Facts

$31

pm)

• Night with a helmet $39 (4:30 – 10 pm) • Night (4:30 – 10

Adult ages 18 – 64, Youth ages 6 – 7, Senior ages 65+. Kids ages 5 and under ski free.

Night skiing runs from December 13, 2012, through March 17, 2013, weather and conditions permitting. Lift ticket prices are valid for the regular season (December 13, 2012 to March 17, 2013), unless otherwise specified.

$25

$34

$39

Day from $79/Night from $59 Includes lift ticket, lessons and equipment rental.

—

pm)

• Day/Night with a helmet $45 (8:30 am – 10 pm)

(Ages 13+)

$31

pm)

$40

pm

Spring Late Season $39

Access

During all operating hours

of the 2012/13 Season 9 am – 10 pm

$39

Dec 8 – 12 Day

Prices

Youth & Senior

Winter Early Season $39

All prices + tax. weather and conditions permitting.

Season Passes

Rentals

(All prices + tax)

$25

$34 pm)

Rental Accessories • Ski Valet is included with the purchase of a rental package • All junior packages include a helmet • Helmet rentals available for $10 a day • Ask about our Ski Valet Season Pass • Snowboard jackets and pants available to rent for $15 a day (per item)

Go to bluemountain.ca for full details

32

33

2012/13 WinterGuide

2012/13 WinterGuide

Daily Snow School programs Private Lessons

Clinics are available daily from 9:30

am

to 7

pm.

Daily Kids at Blue Programs

(All prices + tax)

For complete details, visit bluemountain.ca/snowschool

Ability Product Age price

Ability Product Age price

60-Minute Private

You can book up to 5 people per lesson.

All Lift tickets and rentals sold separately.

90-Minute Private

You can book up to 5 people per lesson.

All Lift tickets and rentals sold separately.

Adaptive Skiing: Private Lessons

60-Minute Private lessons available.

6+ 90-Minute Private lessons available.

6+ For details call 877-445-0231 ext. 6180.

$79 per person Additional person $20

$119 per person Additional person $30

60-Minute $79 per person 90-Minute $119 per person

Beginner Lessons — Discover Skiing & Snowboarding Clinics are available at Tickets & Rentals Building daily from 10 am to 8 pm, South Base Lodge on Saturdays from 10 am to 8 pm and on Sundays and Holidays from 10 am to 4 pm. For complete details, visit bluemountain.ca/snowschool

Newbie

New to the sport? Package includes: rentals, beginner lift ticket and drop-in lesson circuit.

Lift & Rental

Includes rentals and lift ticket. A 1-hour group lesson

is included and strongly recommended.

Kids Camp Junior (Skiing Only)

Half-day programs run daily 10 – 11:45 am 3 – 5

& 1:15 – 3 pm. Full-day programs run daily

10 am – 3 pm (includes lunch).

Programs start at South Base Lodge on the patio.

Half-day Full-day Lesson $65 Lesson $125 Lesson + rentals $75 Lesson + rentals $144

Kids Camp Senior Skiing

Half-day programs run daily 10 – 11: 45 am 6 – 12

& 1:15 – 3 pm. Full-day programs run daily

10 am – 3 pm (includes lunch).

Programs start at South Base Lodge on the patio.

Half-day Full-day Lesson $69 Lesson $99 Lesson + lift ticket $89 Lesson + lift ticket $125 Lesson + lift ticket Lesson + lift ticket + rentals $99 + rentals $144

Kids Camp Senior Snowboarding

Half-day programs run daily 10 – 11: 45 am 8 – 12

& 1:15 – 3 pm. Full-day programs run daily

10 am – 3 pm (includes lunch).

Programs start at South Base Lodge on the patio.

Half-day Full-day Lesson $69 Lesson $99 Lesson + lift ticket $89 Lesson + lift ticket $125 Lesson + lift ticket Lesson + lift ticket + rentals $99 + rentals $144

13+

Day $79 / Night $59

45-Minute Tiny Tot Private Skiing or Snowboarding Programs run daily 9 am – 3: 15 pm.

2 – 5 Lesson $59 Programs start at South Base Lodge on the patio. Lesson + rental $69

13+

Day $99 / Night $79

Non-skiing

Private Sitters Available daily & evenings for overnight guests Up to 12 of Blue Mountain. 72 hours advanced notice required. Call ext. 6126 to book.

A cancellation policy applies to all daily lessons and childcare. For complete details visit bluemountain.ca/snowschool

Activity Central

(All prices + tax)

All daily Kids at Blue programs are available at South Base Lodge. For complete details, bluemountain.ca/winterkidsatblue

Skating

Non-skiing Childcare

Full-day programs run daily 9

(includes snacks & lunch).

am

–3

$12/hour + $10 service fee

pm

18 months to 6 years

$70 per person

A cancellation policy applies to all daily lessons and childcare. For complete details visit bluemountain.ca/snowschool

Ridge Runner

(All prices + tax)

Adult Youth Adult Ticket

34

12 years old and 137 cm (54 in) tall.

Maximum weight capacity per cart: 150 kg (330 lbs).

What do you want to do today? Activity Central is the place to go to plan your ideal recreational getaway in the Blue Mountain region. Recreation is our specialty, and we have something to suit everyone — from serene to extreme! Get the most out of winter with Ontario’s best skiing and snowboarding. Off the slopes, you’ll enjoy guided snowshoe trips, sleigh rides, snowmobile and toboggan tours, our Ridge Runner mountain coaster, ice-fishing, horseback riding, caving and much more. Plus experience outstanding shopping and dining, world-class spas, indoor tennis, Plunge! Aquatic Centre, and an everchanging calendar of special events. At Activity Central, we have activities for every interest, age and budget.

Join family and friends in one of Canada’s favourite winter pastimes as you glide across the Mill Pond, located in the centre of the Village. Whether you’re attempting Arabesques and Salchows or just learning to stand on blades, there’s something about skating outdoors on a frozen pond that brings us together and makes our northern hearts soar.

Visit us at activitycentral.ca

A credit card deposit is required for all rental equipment.

1 ride 2 rides 4 rides

$15 $24 $40

— — —

1 ride

—

$5

Youth Ticket (Must ride with an adult)

11

am

to 10

(weather and conditions permitting).

Skate Rentals (2 hours) Adult $8 / Youth $6

pm

3 to 11 years old and a minimum of 102 cm (40 in) tall.

Please Read

Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster Responsibility Code

There are elements of risk that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Please adhere to the code listed below and share with others the responsibility for a safe experience.

1. Observe and obey all posted signs and instructions from staff.

2. Do not stop on track until finish area — except in case of emergency.

3. Seatbelts must be worn at all times. Removal of seatbelts may result in serious injury or death.

4. You must not use coaster if your ability is impaired through use of alcohol or drugs.

5. You must control your speed keeping a safe distance behind the cart ahead. Tailgating is prohibited. If track is wet or icy you must increase the distance between carts due to longer braking distance.

6. People ahead of you have the right-of-way. It is your responsibility to avoid colliding with them.

7. Keep hands on both brake handles and arms and legs inside cart at all times.

8. Face direction of travel at all times. Never turn around, lie down, kneel or stand.

9. If ride stops you must remain in cart with your seat belt fastened until ride starts again or you are instructed otherwise by staff.

Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster Rider Restrictions

1. Suitable clothing and footwear must be worn.

No bare feet allowed.

2. No loose articles, hats or scarves are permitted on ride. Long hair must be tied back or tucked inside clothing.

3. You must have sufficient physical dexterity, ability and knowledge to safely load, ride and unload the coaster. If in doubt, ask the attendant.

4. To ride alone you must be at least 12 years of age and 137 cm (54 in) tall.

5. Children 3 to 11 years of age must ride with an adult.

6. Children under 3 years of age are not permitted on ride.

7. Maximum weight per cart is 150 kilograms (330 lbs).

Know the Code — Be Safety Conscious.

It is Your Responsibility!

Failure to adhere to the Code will result in the suspension of ride privileges.

2012/13 WinterGuide

Lodging Pricing Why stay anywhere else!

Packaging your getaway is the best way to get the most from your stay at Blue Mountain.

2012/13 Events calendar

Bundle your lift tickets with resort accommodation and save! Reserve our Daily Stay & Ski package and not only do you receive a discount on your accommodation, but our flexible lift ticket allows you to hit the slopes when you want to!

There’s always something going on at the mountain or in the Village!

Blue Mountain presents an entire season of fun-fuelled excitement and special event weeks with discounted lift tickets. Go to bluemountain.ca for all details.

Details at bluemountain.ca/stayskisave December 2012 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

2012/13 Village & Mountain Events • Fireworks by the Mill Pond every Saturday night in December • Horse and Wagon Rides every weekend December 2012 Dec 30 Dec 31 Dec 31

January 2013 Jan 11

Jan 19

Jan 26

February 2013

Matchstick Productions presents Superheroes of Stoke Salomon Don’t Get Lost Snowshoe Raid Billabong Flaunt It

March 2013

Mar 2 Lifted Golden Ticket Mar 9 – 17 March Break Madness

in the Village Mar 15 Filmmaker & Photographer Showcase Mar 30 Final 4 Showdown All events subject to change without notice.

Great Winter Getaways Find your natural high on the slopes of Blue Mountain. First tracks, bluebird days and all-day après make Blue Mountain the natural choice this winter. Check out our lodging packages and discover why Blue Mountain is Ontario’s favourite four-season playground!

Stay & Ski Packages!

If you love skiing & snowboarding and value flexibility when it comes to your vacation activities, then the Daily Stay & Ski package provides the best of both! Not only can your stay be as short or as long as you want, you also receive discounted rates on accommodation and your lift tickets.

Midweek / Value

FIS World Cup Snowboardcross Badlands Park Series Volcom Stone Peanut Butter & Rail Jam Family Day in the Village

Blue Mountain Inn from Village Studio Suite from

Weekend / Prime Blue Mountain Inn from

Village Studio Suite from

2012/13 Special Event Weeks (All prices + tax) Snow Go

Opening until December 7

$

Day lift tickets for all ages

Coors Light Ski Spree

January 7 – 11

$

49

February 19 – 22

$

45

February 25 – March 1

$

45

Day/Night lift ticket for all ages

Coors Light College & University Week Day/Night lift ticket with valid College/University ID

Molson Canadian 67 Women’s Week Day/Night lift ticket for all women

Molson Canadian Men’s Week

March 4 – 8

$

March 11 – 15

$

Day/Night lift ticket for all men

Pepsi March Break Week Day/Night lift ticket for all students 17 and under

19

45 39

112* $119* $

ppd

ppd

129* $132* $

ppd ppd

Package Includes

Your • Nightly PACKAG E accommodation TODAY! • One Day/Night lift ticket per person • Breakfast included when staying at the Blue Mountain Inn Reserve Daily Stay & Ski Package online or by calling: 705-445-0231 or 877-445-0231 and speak to a Leisure and Travel representative.

For full package details and terms and conditions visit bluemountain.ca/stayskisave * Rates will vary based on demand and size of suite reserved. Accommodation/packages are subject to availability and stay requirements. Rates and dates are subject to change without notice. Equipment rentals are not included. Any reservation changes will be subject to the current accommodation rate at the time of change. Package does not include applicable taxes, fees or gratuities. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Offer valid only at Blue Mountain operated properties.

Add even more value to your stay For the kids... Plunge! Aquatic Centre!

Add a Family Day Pass at Plunge! to your package for $38*/day.

Nosh, nosh... During your stay, dine for less at The Pottery Restaurant • Breakfast $14* pp/day • Dinner $33* pp/day Say ahhh at the Spa! Relax in tranquility at the Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain $39*pp/day or receive 10% off Spa services at Kalola PLUS! Take adventure to new heights with the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster at special overnight guest rates! * All prices are per person, per day and are applicable only if staying on a Blue Mountain Resort package.

Taxes, fees and gratuities extra. Other conditions may apply. Subject to change without notice.

36

Y & SA STA V

Book

E

Feb 1 – 2 Feb 6, 13, 20 & 27 Feb 9

Feb 16 – 18

World Snowboard Day Park Party New Year’s Eve at Blue Mountain Village Fireworks

Rates and dates listed in this brochure were correct at the time of printing. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy, though errors may occur.

Programs, rates and dates are subject to change without notice. All rates quoted in Canadian funds. All rates + tax.

January 2013 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 February 2013 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 March 2013 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 April 2013 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Value

Prime

Holiday

Chart is intended as a general reference guide only.

All dates and pricing are subject to conditions and may change without notice.

Dates of Note Hanukkah............................Saturday, December 8 Christmas Day......................Tuesday, December 25 Boxing Day...........................Wednesday, December 26 Kwanzaa..............................December 26 – January 1 New Years Day......................Tuesday, January 1 Martin Luther King Day........... Monday, January 21 Chinese New Year.................Sunday, February 10 Family Day/Presidents Day....Monday, February 18 March Break.........................March 11 – 15 Good Friday..........................Friday, March 29 Easter Monday.....................Monday, March 31

Resort Accommodations

The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain I Boutique Suites

The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain

A full-service four-diamond hotel offering signature Westin amenities such as Heavenly Bed® & Heavenly Bath®, and 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Gym. Relax and recharge in our year-round heated outdoor pool and hot tubs or enjoy a dining experience at Oliver & Bonacini Cafe Grill.

Elevate your senses.

Mosaic at Blue

Modern boutique-style interiors within suite and townhome-style units. Surrounded by the Village, and away from the Village Events Plaza, guests of Mosaic are greeted at a dedicated 24-hour check-in desk. Upgraded amenities include bathrobes, complimentary coffee service and a year-round outdoor pool facility. Signature suites in Mosaic are also available.

Blue Mountain is the perfect place to stay on your perfect getaway.

If you’re looking for winter adventure, it’s all here. Off the slopes, you’ll love the warmth of the Blue Mountain Village, where friends and families gather for good times and build life-long memories.

Here you can kick back in our luxury accommodations, indulge in fine shopping and dining, and enjoy a host of winter events and entertainment.

It’s all waiting for you.

It’s a winter playground to explore and make your own.

Resort Townhomes

Rivergrass

Beautiful townhome-style accommodation just steps from Monterra Golf, the Village Conference Centre and the Blue Mountain Village. These homes range in size from two to three bedrooms. Rivergrass units also feature free Internet service and a seasonal outdoor pool facility.

Historic Snowbridge

Tucked amid the fairways of Monterra Golf, Historic Snowbridge townhomes range in size from one to four bedrooms — perfect for those who prefer a more private setting.

Historic Snowbridge features a seasonal pool facility. A complimentary resort shuttle provides hassle-free connection to the Village and resort activities.

Resort Condominiums

Chateau Ridge

Two-bedroom units located at the base of the hill closest to the Blue Mountain Inn and the advanced terrain of the north end.

In the green season, guests have immediate access to Escarpment hiking trails. A short complimentary shuttle transports guests to the Blue Mountain Village and to other centrally located activities.

Cachet Crossing

Units range from one to three bedrooms and are located at the base of the hill closest to Grand Central Lodge and the Village beginner area. Cachet Crossing is just steps away from Grand Central Lodge attractions and the Village Events Plaza. Guests enjoy easy access to Blue Mountain Inn facilities via a pedestrian walkway.

Mosaic studio, bachelor and one-bedroom suites feature kitchenettes, while larger units have full kitchens.

Village Suites

Blue Mountain Inn

Grand Georgian

The Grand Georgian was the original Village hotel property, with its classic décor reminiscent of a grand railway lodge. The Grand Georgian houses the main check-in for the Village Suites, provides guests with direct access to our Village Events Plaza, and features a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tubs and fitness facility.

Seasons at Blue

Seasons at Blue offers guests welcoming “cottage décor” suites overlooking the Village Mill Pond and the Events Plaza. Located at the crossroads of two of the Village’s main shopping streets, Seasons at Blue provides access to the Village Conference Centre and features a seasonal outdoor pool facility, hot tubs and fitness facility.

Weider Lodge

The Village’s Weider Lodge is styled as a classic mountain ski lodge, with a warm, rustic décor and historic-themed accents. Weider Lodge offers units overlooking the Village Events Plaza, provides the closest Village access to the ski hill, and features a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tubs and fitness facility.

Village suites range from studios to three bedrooms. Studios feature kitchenettes. Larger suites have full kitchens.

For the Best deals on getaways visit bluemountain.ca /stayskisave for full details

38

Mountain Walk

These spacious three-bedroom units are situated directly across from the Blue Mountain Village and Grand Central Lodge, with its many services and attractions.

Mountain Walk is also within short walking distance of the Blue Mountain Inn.

Wintergreen

Located along the first fairway of Monterra Golf, these three-bedroom units are perfect for golf groups. Wintergreen is also a favourite of conference guests, as the Village Conference Centre is quickly accessible via a pedestrian walkway.

Blue Mountain Inn

Comfort, value and service. The Inn is in the final stage of a multi-million-dollar renovation. Guests enjoy newly renovated rooms, upgraded common areas, pool, and outdoor courtyard area with hot tubs. Dining, entertainment, room service and pet-friendly accommodation are also available.

Condominium units offer clean-upon-departure housekeeping services.

For the Best deals on getaways visit bluemountain.ca /stayskisave for full details

39

Shopping and Activities

Dining and Entertainment

There’s something new every visit!

The Village is home to a diverse range of shops offering everything from board sports gear to apparel, eyewear to art, unique necklaces, and licorice to lingerie.

There’s something to satisfy every appetite in the Village’s eclectic and enticing cafés, restaurants, grills, pubs, lounges and bars.

Enjoy the finest full-service dining or fast-and-fresh takeout, a casual après beer or a sophisticated late-night martini.

AZUL JEWELLERY 705-443-5838

AVALANCHE NITECLUB 705-444-8877

Blue Mountain ACTIVITY Central

705-445-0231

BEAVERTAILS 705-444-7676

BIRCH & CO. 705-446-1400

C & A STEAK COMPANY 705-444-8877

BLUE BASIN SNOW SHOP (Winter Only) 705-445-0231 ext. 6122

COPPER BLUES BAR & GRILL

BOARDSPORTS 705-445-7100

FIREHALL PIZZA CO. 705-444-0611

BRIGHTS’ GALLERY 705-445-4999

JOZO’S BAR 705-443-5508

COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR COMPANY

KAYTOO RESTAURANT & BAR

705-443-5802

705-445-4100

COLUMBIA KIDS 705-443-5810

Kikaku Sushi Bar 705-293-7373

CROCK A DOODLE PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY STUDIO

MJ Byrnes 705-446-9989

705-444-0888

Magnone’s Italian Kitchen 705-446-3595

ECHO TRENDS 705-446-1496

OLIVER & BONACINI CAFÉ GRILL

ENVY EYEWEAR 705-445-3168

ROYAL MAJESTY ESPRESSO BAR BAKERY

HATLEY SCOOPS 705-444-0707

RUSTY’S AT BLUE 705-445-2718

705-444-8680 705-812-3476

JACK & MADDY – A TOY STORE 705-446-1689

STARBUCKS COFFEE COMPANY 705-444-4553

JINJER 705-445-5055

SUNSET GRILL 705-445-4880

L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE 705-446-9596

THE PITA PIT 705-443-8814

LIFTED 705-443-5801

THE POTTERY RESTAURANT 705-443-5509

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT 705-446-9866

THOLOS RESTAURANT 705-443-8311

MONTERRA GOLF SHOP (Summer Only) 705-445-0231

TWIST MARTINI & WINE LOUNGE

One Tooth Activewear 705-446-2627

WILD WING 705-443-8811

RED DEVIL SPORTS 705-443-5803 ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY

705-445-1600

ROYAL PHOTO STUDIO 416-737-7373 TARA N’ TULA 705-445-5052 THE GREAT CANADIAN GIFT Company

705-443-8028

THE HAPPY VALLEY CANDY CO. 705-812-0743 THE OLDE STANTON STORE 705-446-0373 TINGLE LINGERIE & LUXURIES 705-445-6768 VILLAGE MARKET 705-444-0744 VILLAGE REALTY INC. BROKERAGE

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705-446-2643

705-445-0440

705-445-5000

The Inside Line

We asked the locals about the very best at Blue

By Allison Kennedy Davies

W

hether it’s Aspen, Whistler or Blue Mountain, there is one mantra that rings true in all resort towns: Locals know best. From the best place to get an award-winning latte to secret shopping spots and deep powder runs, the folks who spend most of their waking hours in a ski town have all the intel. In case you don’t feel comfortable digging for information gold during après-ski hours at Jozo’s, we’ve done the work for you. We tracked down a few Blue Mountain locals to find out what they recommend you experience during your stay.

Favourite après-ski spot at Blue Mountain Resort

“Jozo’s, hands down,” say local couple Lesley Ciarletti and Senn Yapp. “It’s the original and no one does it better — live music, cougars in full attire, bartenders and servers who know your name, and dancing in the afternoon. It rocks! It’s everything an après-ski location should be.”

Meanwhile, Olympic and World Cup Alpine skiing legend and local real estate agent Todd Brooker has another suggestion to throw in the hat: “The best place for real après-ski is always the closest place to the finish of your last run, since après-ski

loses its punch the less spontaneous you are. Therefore, Rusty’s at Blue is the winner in this category! Grab a draft beer, some wings and sweet potato fries. Mix that with some good post-game commentary of the day on the hill, and you’re good!”

Favourite dining location at Blue Mountain Village

“Let’s just talk about pizza for this one,” laughs Brooker. “Firehall Pizza is my favourite in the Village. The kids love this place. It’s fun and everyone is friendly.”

Free Spirit Tours owner Jennie Elmslie echoes his sentiment, “I love pizza, so this 41

Blue Magazine

I will always remember taking “ my children night skiing when they were younger.”

— Ellen Anderson, Mayor of the Town of The Blue Mountains

is easy to answer. Definitely Firehall Pizza in the Village.”

Ciarletti and Yapp suggest you go for the Greek: “Definitely Tholos,” says Ciarletti. “They have fantastic fresh food with that Greek flair. Flavour, flavour, flavour.

And if you happen to catch the dancing and plate smashing, that’s a bonus.”

Favourite off-hill winter activity

For Ciarletti and Yapp, the fun definitely doesn’t stop when they leave Blue behind. “Seriously?” laughs Ciarletti. “My favourite off-hill activity at Blue goes back to question one: Jozo’s, of course! I also love the Ridge Runner. The speed demon in me gets a rush every time. We also love to snowshoe and cross-country ski, and this area is fabulous for both”.

For Brooker, it’s all about exploring: “Getting into the back-country. Take a drive up the Scenic Caves Road, past Swiss Meadows, around to Banks and down to the Loree Forest. Go for a walk through

the Loree, right out to the view lookout at the top of the Champlain Run at Georgian Peaks. You’ll see lots of countryside and get an idea of how beautiful this area really is.”

Elmslie has her own ideas, and it’s the same passion she’s built her business on: “I’m definitely biased here, but I’d say snowshoeing. You can make it into a social outing with friends, or keep it personal and go out with your dog, or even turn it into a workout by going up the Orchard at Blue. Snowshoes are easy to use and it’s not a technical sport. You just put the shoes on and go!”

Favourite ski run at Blue Mountain

Can you pick them all? If you’re Todd Brooker, you can: “What I love to do with my dad — who is still skiing at 80 years of age — is to start at the North End, at Toronto Ski Club, and ski from there to the South End, making a run or two on everything. Then we head back north and finish at the TSC for a coffee and lunch, or whatever.”

Ciarletti and Yapp have a similar routine that combines to create the perfect Blue Mountain experience. “For sentimental reasons, it’s the series of runs you have to take to get from South to the Village as quick as possible,” explains Ciarletti. “A dear friend who is no longer with us loved to ‘race’ us down these trails! I still love to do this as my morning warm-up. You have to be alert at the crossovers. It covers a bunch of varied terrain, and I love the sweet pitch at the bottom of Rinus Run.” For Elmslie, nothing says Blue Mountain like Doctor Doug at the South End and Lone Rider at the North End.

chimed in on this one: “I will always remember taking my children night skiing when they were younger.”

For Elmslie, it is a classic staff event held years ago: “ All the toboggans had to be made of cardboard and duct tape only.

People were so creative and I loved it!”

For Ciarletti and Yapp, Blue Mountain was where they met and where they’ve stayed. “This is where we met through mutual friends,” explains Ciarletti. “Three months later, we bought some land in the area and built a home together. We feel privileged to live in an area where fitness is so much fun. We’ve made great friends to work and play with, and we participate in every outdoor activity imaginable.

We also support the local events, from Centurion to Elvis Fest, and encourage our friends to do the same. Completing the 100-mile Centurion the first year it was here was also a great memory for us.”

Bios: The Locals

Lesley Ciarletti and Senn Yapp (Photo 1) Two of the most familiar faces in the Blue Mountain Ski and Snowboard School, Ciarletti heads up the Kids at Blue program while Yapp can often be seen leading lessons, sporting his patented grin while sharing his love of the sport with new skiers. The pair have lived in Craigleith since 1999.

Todd Brooker (Photo 2) Having spent more than a decade ski racing on the World Cup Tour, this former Olympian now runs a successful real estate business in Collingwood. He’s been skiing at Blue Mountain since he was three years old — 49 years now — and is a member of the Toronto Ski Club.

Brooker and his family officially moved to the area in 1987 and live on a farm just west of Thornbury.

Jennie Elmslie (Photo 3) As one of the owners of Free Spirit Tours, Jennie Elmslie knows the southern Georgian Bay area well. Whether she’s cruising down a run at Blue Mountain or guiding guests through a cave at Metcalfe Rock, Jennie is a great spokesperson for the area. Jennie and business partner Matt Code have been operating Free Spirit Tours since 1988.

Mayor Ellen Anderson (Photo 4) Ellen Anderson grew up in the area and is currently serving her third term as Mayor of the Town of The Blue Mountains. Mayor Anderson never misses an opportunity to show her love and passion for the region.

Favourite Blue Mountain memory

Memories are definitely made at Blue Mountain. Even the Town of The Blue Mountains Mayor Ellen Anderson 42

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Apple Culture

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ou’ve heard of wine trails, cheese trails — even chocolate trails.

Now the Blue Mountain Village Association has partnered with local businesses to create something truly unique: its very own Apple Pie Trail.

“It’s a simple concept celebrating the fact Blue Mountain is located in the heart of apple country,” says Patti Kendall, marketing manager for Blue Mountain Village. Indeed, Kendall confirms that the Blue Mountain area has the largest concentration of apple growers in Canada, producing up to three million bushels annually.

It’s all thanks to Blue’s proximity to the magic combo of Georgian Bay and the Niagara Escarpment. In a typical year, the moderating effects create ideal conditions for the growth of apples. This is a particularly difficult year for farmers due to early high temperatures and late frost that damaged many crops, but the tenacious apples that survived will be available throughout the region all winter.

Add the region’s acute concentration of galleries, wineries, cafés and boutiques — many of which already celebrating apple culture — and you’ve got all the ingredients necessary for a perfect Apple Pie Trail adventure.

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“The Apple Pie Trail combines culinary adventure and agriculture,” Kendall explains. “It provides visitors a unique opportunity to get involved with our beautiful landscape, meet our locals and taste our terroir. They can return to the area often throughout the year to experience seasonal adventures.” here’s how it works...

A beautifully crafted map — available both online and in print — outlines driving routes that loop through such apple hotspots as Blue Mountain, Collingwood, Craigleith, Thornbury, Ravenna, Beaver Valley, Clarksburg and Meaford. The map indicates over 30 stops, including orchards, shops, galleries, wineries, museums and cafés, all featuring products derived from locally grown apples.

By lori knowles

Highlights include the soft and hard ciders served inside the Cheese Gallery in Thornbury and the aromatic burst of crisp apple you get from a sip of Forbidden Fruit at Meaford’s Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery. Families love to hit the Ravenna Country Market for a take-home apple pie after an energetic day of cross-country skiing. And an apple caramel latte from Collingwood’s Espresso Post is the perfect antidote to the cold of winter.

An apple bonus...

An added bonus is the Apple Pie Trail’s recommendations for apple-related winter adventures. Suggestions include a guided snowshoe and wine-tasting excursion, a cross-country ski outing, and a rejuvenating visit to the Nordic baths of Scandinave Spa near Blue Mountain. All Apple Pie Trail Adventure Packages include a $10 voucher toward an apple treat along the trail.

The whole concept is award winning — the Blue Mountains Apple Pie Trail was awarded the Ontario Tourism Culinary Experience Award in 2011.

For more info: applepietrail.ca (Top) Heavenly Sweets in Collingwood.

(Bottom left) Pick up a pie at Royal Majesty in the Village. (Bottom right) Georgian Hills wine and cheese tasting all winter.

s k c i r T

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ti Get

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Kids

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tivweles c A r no inte By Lori K

ith only seven percent of Canada’s kids currently meeting the recommended guidelines for daily physical activity, there’s never been a better time to nurture a love of outdoor recreation in our children.

“Kids need at least one hour of moderate to vigorous activity every day,” says Catherine Cameron, an Active Living Ambassador for ParticipACTION, Canada’s favourite get-active program.

“It has to start at home. Parents need to limit ‘screen time’ and see to it that their kids get out and get moving!”

A fit mom who regularly coaxes her kids outside for exercise, Cameron says that Blue Mountain is an ideal recreational destination at this time of year. Here are her Top 5 Tricks to encourage kids to stay winter active:

NORDIC ADVENTURES A T

S C E N I C

C A V E S

13 RY 9, 20

FEBRUA

til Dec. 31st rly Bird Available un Ea ES SS PA N SO A SE

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Skiing or Snowboarding: Skiing or snowboarding at Blue is thrilling and fun, not to mention workout-worthy. Best part: Declares Cameron: “Blue’s slopes are the best—they’ve got the most action.”

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Nordic Skiing: “Cross-country skiing is even more exercise, and it’s less expensive,” says Cameron. “Which makes it an affordable family option.” Best part: XC rentals and XC trails around Blue are close by and readily available.

3

Snowshoeing: “It’s a big hit with teens,” Cameron says,

“and snowshoeing is a terrific workout, especially if you add nordic walking poles to get the upper body moving.” Best part: Close to Blue is Scenic Caves for an active combo of snowshoeing and XC skiing.

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THE NORDIC CENTRE AT SCENIC CAVES RESTS AMID A 200 YEAR OLD FOREST, ON THE TOP OF BLUE MOUNTAIN, NEAR COLLINGWOOD FEATURING...

Professionally groomed Cross-country Ski Trails for Skate and Classic Styles • Snowshoe Trails plus Guided, Night Snowshoe Hikes • 420 ft Suspension Bridge • Warming Hut • Hot Food and Beverages • Rentals Lessons • High-altitude Snow Conditions • Fabulous Panoramic Views

Skating: “It’s free, it’s on a pond under the stars, afterward you can reward yourself with a hot chocolate,” says Cameron, “what’s not to love about skating?” Best part: Blue Mountain has its very own skating rink on the Mill Pond.

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Winter Caving and Hiking: Explore the Niagara Escarpment’s back country caves on snow shoes or go for an exilerating winter hike. “All you need is a good set of boots and some nordic poles,” declares Cameron. “Wasaga Beach Provincial Park’s trails are only 15 minutes from Blue Mountain.”

Best part: Winter hiking — a.k.a. nordic walking — works 90 percent of the muscles in your body!

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www.sceniccaves.com • Collingwood / Blue Mountain • 705 446-0256

Blue Mountain Ambassador

Blue Mountain has long played a significant role in Tom’s life — from his early days as part of the ‘70s singles scene at the Toronto Ski Club, through raising his family on the slopes, and now as the resort’s official social butterfly. “While Blue Mountain isn’t the biggest mountain in Canada,” notes Tom, “it has the best snowmaking and grooming in North America. It has amazing terrain.

And you won’t find a better social scene at any ski resort in the world. The growth of the Blue Mountain Village is the biggest and best thing to happen to Blue. I truly enjoy every minute I spend at the resort.”

Where you’ll find him

A Passholder for 41 years —with the passes to prove it—Tom Servinis is a true “Face of Blue”.

faces of blue

By Collin Matanowitsch

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ne of the largest snowstorms to ever hit Blue Mountain occurred on April 4, 1975. Roads leading into the surrounding towns were closed, and the resort had shut its doors. But if you looked hard enough through the snowfall, you might have seen a lone skier bombing down Blue Mountain’s Spectacular run. “I know for a fact that I was the only person to ski Blue Mountain that day,” Tom Servinis says with conviction. “The ski down the mountain was a thrill,” he recalls, “but the hike back up to my home in Swiss Meadows wasn’t so pleasant.” It’s just one of many memories Tom has created during his 41 seasons as a Blue Mountain Passholder.

Family Man

Over the years, skiing has become a family tradition for Tom, wife Linda, son Tryan and daughter Morgan. “My kids have had season passes at Blue since they were infants.” (Tom has the passes to prove it.) The family has spent weekends and holidays at their chalet at the base of Blue Mountain since the early ‘80s. One of Tom’s fondest Blue Mountain memories is 48

of bringing his parents to watch his family ski. His parents weren’t skiers, but one of the resort’s quick-thinking lift operators saw an opportunity to give them a lasting ski-hill memory. “Without missing a beat, the lifty ushered my parents onto the lift, without any equipment, and allowed them to ride the chair with their grandchildren for the first and only time. This was a truly special moment for all of us,” Tom remembers. “My mother is no longer with us and my father is 93. It was the only time my parents saw us ski down the mountain, and it was made even more special because they rode above us on the lift all the way down.”

Tom knows the slopes like the back of his hand, and he never misses an opportunity to show newcomers his favourite spots. While Tom enjoys skiing all 36 trails, he always tries to fit in three specific runs before heading off-hill for his après-ski activities: Kandahar Ski Run: “It’s a secluded trail surrounded by trees and always seems to have fresh tracks due to its proximity on the far north side of the resort.”

L-Hill Ski Run: Taking L-Hill from the top to the bottom is, in Tom’s opinion, the “longest run at Blue Mountain.”

Tranquility: “It’s a great pitch, and Tranquility has always been the meeting spot for all our friends. We meet at the top of Tranq, have some laughs and ski right into the Village for some après-ski adventure.”

Tom admits that the après-ski options are still his favourite part about skiing at Blue. While Jozo’s is his preferred destination, Tom likes to mix it up. And since the growth of the Village, you’re likely to see him at any one of the great après-ski locations across the resort.

Here’s to Tom Servinis — a true face of Blue!

gerry Wayland

andrea Wright

Maggie Smyth

Janet Hare

Owner, Broker of Record gerry@villagerealty.ca

Sales Representative andrea@villagerealty.ca

Sales Representative maggie@villagerealty.ca

Administrative Assisant janet@villagerealty.ca

Buying or Selling in Blue Mountain?

call 705-445-0440 - villagerealty.ca - lOcateD NeXt tO StarBUcKS iN BlUe MOUNtaiN village * Based on Blue Mountain Resort Village listings and sales as per MLS as well as exclusive listings and sales with Village Realty inc., Brokerage between January 1st, 2011 and December 31st, 2011

There’s only one ORIGINAL Ever since the days of the old Ski Barn, there has been one place where Blue Mountain locals come together — Jozo's.

When you’re done on the slopes, head into Jozo's for daily specials, live bands, big screens and the best prices on Resort!

Voted 'Best Après-ski' award Ski Canada, Best of Skiing - Winter 2011

www.jozos.ca

705-443-5508