Supporting local ski hills is crucial for the ski and snowboard industry for a variety of reasons. First, the smaller resorts often rely on community engagement to ensure a successful season. Additionally, local ski hills promote affordable outdoor activity and healthy lifestyles within the community. With the cost for skiing and snowboarding getting more expensive in the mountains, riding at local hills is an affordable option.They also foster a sense of camaraderie and connection among residents, making winter sports more inclusive and enjoyable for families and individuals of all skill levels. 

Choosing a local ski hill for your family's ski or snowboard adventures is an exciting way to enjoy the slopes. Alberta offers a variety of hills to explore, each hill features terrain suitable for every skill level, ensuring that everyone in the family can find their perfect run.

Snow Valley

Located in the heart of Edmonton, Snow Valley boasts four lifts and eight runs, providing an open terrain feel. This ski hill hosts various clubs and winter activities, with a terrain park catering to all abilities, including a junior hike park. I’ve always been drawn to Snow Valley for its meticulously groomed runs.

Edmonton Ski Club

The Edmonton Ski Club, situated downtown, offers skiing and snowboarding alongside a unique natural luge experience. While it’s a smaller venue, it provides a spread-out feeling and features a unique terrain park. They also host ski touring and splitboarding practice nights, making it a great spot for enthusiasts.

Sunridge

Sunridge is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more. With five lifts—including a quad and triple chairlift—as well as three easy-to-use carpet lifts. Located between Edmonton and Sherwood Park, this location attracts riders from the city and the surrounding towns.I loved the Sunridge atmosphere because it's like a small town in a big city feel.

Rabbit Hill Snow Resort

Located just 15 minutes southwest of Edmonton in the scenic North Saskatchewan River valley, Rabbit Hill offers over 40 acres of ski and snowboard trails. Known for its award-winning Snow School, it provides lessons for all ages and abilities. The hill also hosts some of the best-organized ski and snowboard events in the area.

Tawatinaw Valley Ski Hill 

Just 50 minutes north of St. Albert, Tawatinaw Valley Ski Hill features activities for the whole family, including downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and winter tubing. The layout of the hill is super fun and the cafeteria has the best chicken sandwich. 

Kinosoo Ridge Resort 

Kinosoo Ridge Resort, located 14 km east of Cold Lake on the shores of French Bay Provincial Recreation Area, offers over 40 acres of skiable terrain. With three terrain parks ranging from beginner to advanced, there’s something for everyone. The resort features five lifts, including two quad chairs and three magic carpet lifts, with a dedicated lift for the tube park.

Misery Mountain 

In Peace River, Misery Mountain features 35 runs that vary in difficulty from easy greens to steep rollers. With 645 vertical feet and a 1 km long quad chairlift, this hill promises a fantastic winter adventure. I was amazed by the number of runs, many of which wind through dense trees.

Additional Hills to Check Out 

● Medicine Lodge Ski Hill: A volunteer-run, non-profit organization offering 11 runs for various skill levels, a T-bar, and a beginner’s lift. Nestled in the picturesque hills of Lacombe County near Bentley, Alberta, it's a hidden gem. 

● Long Lake Ski Area: Features 12 downhill ski runs, including a terrain park and toboggan hill. With a T-bar lift, rope tow, rental shop, and local ski patrol supervision, it’s a great spot for families. 

● Canyon Ski Resort: Alberta’s largest non-mountain family ski area, boasting 80 acres of skiable terrain with 23 runs and six lifts. Canyon is a must-visit destination in Red Deer during winter. 

With reasonably priced lift tickets and diverse terrain, these local ski hills are fantastic options to explore this winter. Embrace the local adventure and grow in your ski or snowboard journey while ensuring that these beloved winter playgrounds continue to exist for future generations.