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.”