Hidden Valley Ski Area is entering an exciting new chapter with a significant multi-year investments underway to modernize the Ski Area and enhance the experience for skiers and snowboarders across the Muskoka region.
The investment will focus on several key areas of the ski operation, including
replacement of the Red Chairlift, continued modernization of the snowmaking system,
and renewed investment in the Terrain Park.
“Hidden Valley Ski Area has been part of the Muskoka community for generations, and
we want to make sure it continues to be here and continues to evolve for generations to
come,” said Chris Beckett, General Manager of Hidden Valley Ski Area. “These projects
are about investing in the fundamentals of the Ski Area while also improving the
experience for the people who come here to ski, ride, learn and spend time with family
and friends.”
A New Red Chairlift
The most significant project is the replacement of the existing Red Chair with a new
fixed-grip quad chairlift from Leitner Poma.
The new chairlift is planned for installation in Summer 2027, with operations targeted for
the 2027–28 ski season. The new quad chairlift will feature 48 chairs and will operate at
2.0 metres per second, compared with the current Red Chair speed of 1.5 metres per
second.
The new chairlift will improve uphill capacity and reduce ride times while providing a
more reliable lift for one of the busiest zones of the Ski Area.
Preparatory work for the project is already beginning, with tree clearing, electrical
infrastructure improvements and construction of a new access road from Lazy Lady to
the top terminal area planned as part of the overall project.
Continued Investment in Snowmaking
Alongside the chairlift project, Hidden Valley Ski Area is continuing to modernize its
snowmaking operation.
Snowmaking is one of the most important investments a ski area can make in the
reliability and consistency of its season. The Ski Area is taking a phased approach to
upgrading the system, with a focus on improving efficiency, coverage and the ability to
make snow during shorter weather windows.
The goal is to continue building a more modern and efficient snowmaking system that
supports dependable conditions across more of the ski area.
Renewed Focus on the Terrain Park
Hidden Valley Ski Area is also renewing its investment in the Terrain Park, recognizing
the important role it plays for younger skiers and snowboarders and for developing the
next generation of the sport.
Planned improvements focus on enhancing the Terrain Park experience while
continuing to provide a progression-based area where skiers and snowboarders can
develop their skills.
Investing in Hidden Valley’s Future
Together, these projects represent a significant commitment to the future of Hidden
Valley Ski Area and to the role the ski area plays in the Muskoka community.
The investment is being supported through a combination of existing funds, sponsorship
contributions and long-term financing.
“We are looking at the Ski Area as a whole,” said Beckett. “The Red Chair is an
important part of that, but so are snowmaking, the Terrain Park, and the infrastructure
behind the scenes that allow us to provide a great experience. We want people to see
these investments as part of a long-term commitment to Hidden Valley.”
About Hidden Valley Ski Area
Hidden Valley Ski Area is located in Huntsville, Ontario, in the heart of Muskoka. The
Ski Area has been a part of the region for generations, offering skiing, snowboarding,
racing, lessons and outdoor recreation for families and visitors from Muskoka and
surrounding communities.
