Skiing has become a popular recreational activity across the world. Canada, with its stunning mountain ranges and abundant snowfall, has emerged as one of the most sought-after skiing destinations in the world.
However, have you ever wondered which is the oldest ski resort in Canada? Let’s delve into the history of skiing in Canada to find out.
The Beginnings of Skiing in Canada
The First Nations people of Canada have been using skis for transportation and hunting purposes for over 6000 years. The earliest evidence of skiing in North America dates back to the 18th century when Scandinavian immigrants introduced skiing to Quebec and Ontario.
The Birth of Skiing Resorts in Canada
The first-ever ski resort was built in Quebec City by Herman Smith-Johannsen (also known as Jackrabbit) in 1914. Known as Mont-Sainte-Anne, it is still operational and attracts a large number of visitors every year.
In 1930, another ski resort named Laurentian opened up near Montreal, Quebec. It was followed by Blue Mountain Ski Resort located near Collingwood, Ontario, which opened its doors to skiing enthusiasts in 1941.
The Oldest Ski Resort in Canada
The oldest ski resort still operational in Canada is Mount Norquay, situated near Banff town in Alberta. The resort was established by Clifford White Sr. and his family back in 1926. Initially used as a training ground for Canadian skiers who were preparing for Winter Olympics, Mount Norquay quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike.
Mount Norquay boasts of being the first ski resort to install chairlifts for skiers’ convenience back in 1948. Today it offers visitors an array of winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice-skating, and sightseeing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, skiing has a rich history in Canada, and its evolution over time has led to the establishment of world-class resorts. While many ski resorts have come and gone over the years, Mount Norquay stands tall as the oldest ski resort in Canada that is still operational today. It is a testament to the country’s love for skiing and its commitment to preserving its heritage for generations to come.