Why Small Ski Hills Play a Big Role in Alberta’s Ski & Snowboard Community
Skiing and snowboarding in Alberta thrive because of the full ecosystem of resorts, from the iconic mountain destinations to the small, local ski hills tucked into our river valleys. While the mountains will always take our breath away, not every great run starts with a long drive. For countless Albertans, the first turns, first lessons, and first sparks of passion begin at small local hills just minutes from home.
As a community-focused ski and snowboard shop with roots in Edmonton and a growing presence in Calgary, Sundance has seen firsthand how important these smaller hills are. They are more than training grounds; they are the heartbeat of winter culture in our cities.
Small Hills Make the Sport Accessible
Skiing and snowboarding are incredible sports, but let’s be honest, they can be intimidating. They are expensive, physically demanding, adrenaline-filled, and full of new rules, skills, and equipment. For beginners and families, starting at a big mountain resort can feel overwhelming.
That is where small hills shine. They offer:
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Shorter drives (for many, since not everyone lives near the mountains)
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Lower costs
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A less intimidating learning environment (there is still risk, but often lower consequences)
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A friendlier entry point for all ages
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More frequent chances to practice
Thanks to this accessibility, thousands of Albertans take their first-ever run on small local hills.
Small Hills Fuel Skill Development
A common misconception is that small hills are “boring.” But if you're bored on a small hill, you might simply not be challenging yourself.
Small hills push riders to develop creativity and precision:
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Practice switch skiing (backwards)
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Learn new tricks or hops
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Tackle the terrain park
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Play games and drills that refine skiing and riding fundamentals
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Focus on technique, not just surviving long steep runs
Once you have explored every inch of a smaller hill, the only thing left to improve is you. That is where real skill-building happens.
This focus on fundamentals is why small hills consistently produce strong instructors, racers, coaches, and park riders. Many mountain resorts depend on staff who first taught or trained at smaller local hills. These hills are feeder hills not just for skiers and riders, but for the entire industry.
School Programs: Opening the Door to Winter Sports
Some of the greatest unsung heroes of the ski industry are school programs at small hills. These programs introduce thousands of kids to skiing and snowboarding every winter. Many of these children would never otherwise have the chance to try the sport.
The impact is huge:
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Kids gain confidence in a supportive learning environment.
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Families are encouraged to return together.
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A lifelong love for winter begins.
Small hills reduce barriers such as cost, distance, and fear, and make winter sports feel possible for everyone.
A Vital Part of Alberta’s Winter Identity
Alberta’s ski culture isn’t defined only by the mountains—it’s shaped every day by the local hills woven into our cities.
In Edmonton alone, we’re incredibly lucky. Four ski hills operate within the city limits, something few other major cities can claim. These hills keep Edmontonians active, connected, and embracing winter in a way that truly makes our city feel like a ski town.
Calgary has its own strong, fast-paced ski and snowboard scene. With quick access to Winsport/COP—a hub that has produced Olympic athletes, freestyle talent, and generations of passionate riders—plus several nearby local hills, Calgary offers one of the most diverse progression pathways in Canada. Beginners can learn the basics close to home and build confidence before stepping into world-class Rocky Mountain terrain just down the highway.
Together, these small but mighty hills across Alberta fuel participation, passion, and progression. They keep the sport alive and thriving, while continually sending skilled, enthusiastic riders into our mountain resorts and broader ski community.
Where Sundance Ski & Snowboard Shop Fits In
At Sundance Ski & Snowboard Shop, we see the full picture. Our customers range from weekend mountain warriors to local-lap diehards and brand-new beginners stepping into gear for the first time.
Our philosophy has always been simple:
Ski. Board. Live.
And for us, that means our experts:
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Treat every skier and rider with respect
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Never belittle beginners
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Help people find gear that truly fits their needs
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Support the local hills that support our community
We believe that everyone, from small-hill groms to mountain-season-pass heroes, belongs in this sport.
Explore Alberta’s Local Ski Hills
Here is a growing list of small and mid-sized hills throughout Alberta worth checking out:
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If we missed your favourite, let us know! We’ll add it to the list!
Ready to Ride? Start Local.
Whether you are brand new or getting back into the sport, your local hill is the perfect place to begin. Grab a lesson, make a few after-work laps, or bring a friend who has always wanted to try.
When you are gearing up for the season or helping someone get ready for their first run, stop by Sundance Ski & Snowboard Shop in Edmonton or Calgary. We are here to help you Ski. Board. Live. with confidence.