COLD LAKE - This winter, Kinosoo Ridge, located just outside of Cold Lake, is delivering a season filled with fresh features, upgraded amenities, and expanded accessibility at the popular ski hill.
The 2024-25 season is now in full swing.
“The opening date this year was Dec. 6,” said Ian Frankton, the Kinosoo Ridge Resort Business Operations Manager. For example, guests can explore a revamped ski cross course on the Sidewinder Trail, offering new challenges for adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Additionally, the Green Chair Lift line boasts enhanced features across its four terrain parks, ensuring a variety of elements for freestyle enthusiasts.
Snowmaking was done by Dec. 18, opening all areas of the ski hill.
“Most of the snow is made from the lake. The biggest challenge with snowmaking is the outside temperature as we require minimum [and] maximum temperatures in order to make the best product for guests and allow equipment to be run in an optimal manner.”
Events and experiences
New initiatives this season include pop-up ski nights.
“We are offering pop-up ski nights on Wednesdays when the weather cooperates,” Frankton said. Signature events like Snow Fever on Family Day weekend, the Blizzard Blast Alpine Race on Feb. 8 and 9, and the end-of-season Slush Cup promise memorable experiences.
Kinosoo Ridge is partnering with Alberta Freestyle to host Freestyle Trail Days, an initiative that helps the resort prepare to host the Alberta Winter Games next season.
Accessibility and inclusivity
Accessibility remains a priority at Kinosoo Ridge.
“The facility is fully accessible for all and offers various adaptive skiing options and equipment through the Canadian Adaptive Snowsports (CADS) program for people who may require additional accessibility on the hill,” explained Frankton.
“We have also added expecting parents and additional accessibility parking next to the facility entrance with clear signage to make the guest experience even more inclusive.”
Family and community focus
The resort is also committed to creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Reduced school sizes ensure a better experience for students taking lessons, while group and individual lessons cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
“We are also offering group/individual lessons so that ski/snowboarders can progress and hopefully join the Kinosoo team as they get older. We have seen a few success stories this year of fellow patrons joining the team.”
Frankton added that Kinosoo Ridge offers options to hopefully make winter sports accessible, including early bird rates for season passes and a one-day family pass priced at $244, covering up to five lift tickets and rentals.
“Skiing, snowboarding, and tubing are a great way to get active in the winter. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time skier/snowboarder, Kinosoo offers a variety of programs and lessons to meet you where you are on your winter recreation journey.”
Looking ahead
As Kinosoo Ridge looks toward the future, more developments are on the horizon.
“We are in the final stages of completing wedding packages and looking into a tube park expansion for next season,” Frankton shared.
