
You can now hit the slopes this winter without leaving Toronto, as the city’s only ski hill has officially opened for the season!
Found near Bathurst and Sheppard, Earl Bales Park welcomed skiers and snowboarders back as of yesterday, January 20, which is complete with a beginner’s hill with a tow rope, and main hill featuring two runs and a race hill, accessible by chairlift.
As the park has its own snow-making machine, you don’t have to rely on the weather to be able to ski. The temperature just has to remain at a consistent -5 C or below for the snow to stay.
For beginners, there is a ski and snowboard centre on site, which offers instructor-led programs and classes.
You can also rent ski or snowboard equipment directly at the hill, as long as you have a valid Ski Membership or Lift Ticket.
Lift tickets are priced based on a two, three, four hour, or all-day pass. All-day lift tickets cost $39.85, or if you plan to go often, you can opt for a season ski membership for $269.34.
Earl Bales’ ski season is scheduled to run through mid-March, depending on weather and snowfall. Luckily, this January has brought prime conditions for the hill to operate, unlike last winter when we faced unseasonably warm temperatures for most of the winter.
Time to embrace the winter and get out on the ski hill!