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13 feet of snow can be a good thing

Heavy snowfall, increased number of visits from U.S. skiers made 2016-2017 a profitable year for Searchmont
170426-SEARCHMONTSUPPLIEDPHOTO
Searchmont Resort. Photo supplied.

As Sault and Algoma residents eagerly welcome April showers and warmer temperatures, Searchmont Ski Resort officials say they are reflecting on a profitable year.

Colin Wilson, Searchmont Ski Resort general manager, told SooToday 2016-2017 was a profitable season for the hill.

“Having an early and abundant snowfall (more than 13 feet) this year definitely played a factor in getting the resort open for the holidays, which is critical, as we make 20 to 23 per cent of our annual income in those two weeks,” Wilson stated in an email to SooToday.

Wilson wrote getting the quad lift operational was “another big win…the feedback from the community is exceptional.  We hope to get back to the quad side of the mountain to increase the gladed runs available and improve the established trail system with continued hill remediation and new signage.”

Wilson noted some encouraging trends.

First, the Americans are coming.

“Our neighbours to the south are taking notice, and they are really enjoying the exceptional riding conditions that are available at Searchmont.  We have been working hand in hand with Tourism Sault Ste Marie, and with our new website, online booking opportunities, revised digital campaign and a robust social media presence, we are making headway into the Michigan and Wisconsin markets,” Wilson wrote.

Those visits from U.S. tourists, of course, have a considerable economic impact for the region as the hotels and motels, restaurants and shops experience an increase in traffic throughout the season.  

Secondly, Wilson wrote many of those travellers purchased season passes.

“These families came to our community for several weekends over the winter. Our early season pass sale produced a 24 per cent increase over last year . . . we are excited.”

Wilson acknowledged the support given to Searchmont by several community partners and sponsors, including the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation, NOHFC, FedNor, Searchmont Ski Runners, the Canadian Ski Patrol, Sault College, Algoma University, corporate sponsors, “but most importantly, the skiers and snowboarders who keep this amazing community asset alive.” 

“Stay tuned to our social media platforms and website for updates…we are already working hard to prepare for the upcoming 2017-2018 season,” Wilson wrote.


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Darren Taylor

About the Author: Darren Taylor

Darren Taylor is a news reporter and photographer in Sault Ste Marie. He regularly covers community events, political announcements and numerous board meetings. With a background in broadcast journalism, Darren has worked in the media since 1996.
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