Laurentian Ski Hill is stuck in limbo awaiting word from the Ontario government on when it can reopen.
Michael King, the hill’s general manager, says the extended closure has taken a toll on him and his staff.
“It’s already been a tough enough year and to have this on top of everything, it’s very difficult for everyone,” King said.
King says he is tentatively planning on reopening the hill on February 11 when the provincial stay-at-home order is set to expire.
“It’s the not knowing that’s worrisome,” he commented, as there has been no indication from the province on if and when an announcement will be made.
Under the current provincial rules, ski hills were not permitted to open during the lockdown, being named as the only outdoor recreation not suitable to participate in.
King says Laurentian was able to run its beginner’s hills in late December before the initial provincial shutdown came into effect on Boxing Day.
Following that, King and the hill were prepared to open in late January, with the stay-at-home order quashing those plans as well.
“I don’t think anyone would be surprised if it happened again,” noted King on a potential extension of the stay-at-home order.
It is now just a waiting game for Laurentian as to when, or if they are allowed to reopen.
“If there’s an announcement that says ski hills are allowed to reopen, we’re committed to doing just that. The longer that goes, the less likely it is,” he said.
King ensures that when he knows of the fate of the ski hill, he will be sure to let the public know through Laurentian’s social media channels.