February 5 week Group Lessons start this weekend! Limited spots available – call us to register or email snowschool@batawaskihill.com

$15 + tax Night Lift Tickets – Saturday February, 4th 2012
Family Fun and Entertainment at The Batawa Community Centre From 10 am – 1:45 pm

Calling all the ladies – $15 +tx lift tickets (9am – 4:30pm or 4:30pm – 10pm) and enter our draw for a Mill Creek Spa manicure & pedicure and Batawa Ski Hill women’s golf shirt! $1 tickets, anyone can buy! Sorry guys…

Stop by Guest Services and check out our new order of Buffs – polar fleece and all seasons! Styles for men and women! Stop by before they’re gone!

www.buffcanada.com

Batawa racers win six medals in season-opening competitions

By Paul Svoboda  (Intelligencer)

Count members of the Batawa Ski Club among those who were happy with last weekend’s snowfall in the Quinte region.

The mostly green winter in the area hasn’t made for ideal training conditions for the local ski racers, but that was hardly evident in some strong performances turned in by Batawa athletes on the road last weekend.

Seven travelling teams are representing Batawa this season, with six of them competing for the first time in 2012. The lone exception were the K1 Tigers (11- and 12-year-olds), who start their season this weekend.

Caroline Burchat of the K-2 Bandits led all Batawa skiers with a gold medal and high score of 50 points while competing at The Heights of Horseshoe, near Barrie.

Here’s how Batawa skiers fared:

K-2 BOMBERS

Coached by Mark Kellar, the locals skied a tricky slalom course against Skyloft at Hidden Valley where four Batawa competitors earned medals. Amy Park won silver and Renee Lamoureaux captured a bronze in girls competition while Kurtis Wright (silver) and Petru-ioan Obreja (bronze) both medalled on the boys side.

Final score: Batawa 232, Skyloft 232.

K-2 BANDITS

Along with Burchat’s gold in the girls competition, Batawa’s Natalie Wannamaker also hit the podium. She took silver with 45 points.

Other scorers were Elizabeth Hurley, 32; Olivia Podscianski, 30; Jared Taylor, 30; Andrew Brown, 28; and Mathew Doxtator, 26.

 Final score: Heights of Horseshoe 279, Batawa 241.

“I was proud of the combined scores at our first race,” said Bandits coach, Brian Wannamaker. “Everyone skied two consistent runs, which were needed in the K-2 scoring category. It’s a good foundation to build the rest of the season on.”

PREDATORS

Competing at Horseshoe Vally near Barrie, and coached by Julie and David McPherson, the locals faced some stiff rivals in severely cold conditions. Batawa competed against Cobble Hills, scoring 141 points against 219. Leading the Batawa team were Jillian Madden, Maggie Chalk, Meg Bashall, Nikolas McPherson, Ella Cooney and Lydia Schmoll.

K-1 DRAGONS

At Hockley Valley near Orangeville, Batawa skiers kicked-off their season in icy conditions that made for a challenging run. It proved to be a tough day for the locals who managed 184 points, finishing behind the Devil’s Elbow Renegades (210) and Mount St. Louis-Moonstone (292). Strong runs came from Hope Saunders, Zoe Gram, Patrick Burchat and William Rae.

WILDCATS

Batawa’s Nancy Greene Team gave Snow Vally all it could handle, finishing just two points behind the host club, 216-214.

Thank you to Belleville’s Smart Promotions for the artwork! Bigs thanks to our sponsors College Sports, Mix 97 and Rock 107!

Check the mural out next time you’re here and enjoy!

www.smartpromotionsteam.com

Visit our Snow School desk for lesson info! All ages and all abilities welcome!

$20 lift tickets!!

4 more days (until Sunday Jan 8). Valid 9am – 4:30pm OR 4:30pm – 10pm

Tara’s first ski lesson with Spencer was a success!

The girls enjoying a delicious hot chocolate after a long cold day on the slopes!

Temperature drop = ideal snowmaking conditions!

Thursday’s rain took its toll on Batawa’s man-made snow, melting the top and bottom of the piles with the ground not yet frozen. The North Star chairlift and Bambi loading and unloading areas still require more snow to safely ski and snowboard on. Fortunately for us (and you!) Friday will see temperatures drop which means our snowmakers will be creating a ton of the white stuff to provide safe access points at the lifts and across the top and bottom of the hill.

Batawa Ski Hill will be opening Saturday at 9am – 4:30pm with Long John, Bambi and the Terrain Park (no features in the park).

We want to thank all of our passholders, members and guests for their patience and eagerness to get on the slopes! We have extended our pass sale until Dec 24th! 

Student Season Pass – $388.00 +tx, Adult Season Pass – $468.00 +tx, Weekday Pass – $119.00 +tx, Corporate Pass – $674.25 +tx

Please stay tuned to our website, Facebook page and Twitter account for updates.

THINK SNOW!!

To ensure our guests the best possible customer service experience, Batawa Ski Hill will now be open for extended holiday hours!

The office is now open for Season’s Pass, gift certificate and retail sales before Christmas, Monday to Wednesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday & Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Gift certificates can be purchased for all of our lift tickets, rental equipment and lessons. Businesses who wish to be a sponsor at Batawa Ski Hill this year can contact the office at 613-398-6568 or admin@batawaskihill.com. Thank you!

December 4, 2011

BATAWA, ON / The jewel in the winter crown of Quinte West, Batawa Ski Hill, will have a new General Manager at the helm this winter. 

After an extensive nationwide search, it was announced today at the ski hill that Darren Lobb will be its new General Manager.

Darren has extensive resort experience, strong marketing and financial expertise, a flare for food and beverage and a passion for community ski hills. All of this made him a natural choice for the Batawa Ski Hill and the Batawa community. He has spent the last 15 years at the Beaver Valley Ski Club, most recently as the Assistant General Manager.

As General Manager of the Batawa Ski Hill, Darren will provide leadership, build a long-range business plan and more importantly, develop the ski hill into a year-round outdoor recreational and educational centre.

“I am eager to build on the improvements made by my predecessor, Steve Spiessman, over the last 5 years.  During his time in Batawa he oversaw the installation of a new quad chairlift and a state-of-the-art snowmaking system.  With that, and his operational expertise, this hill has flourished,” explained Lobb.

“Now it’s time to take the business and develop its winter strengths, but more importantly create an outdoor education and recreation centre in the green season that will see families and schools taking full advantage of the pristine environment that surrounds the hill including its trail, and Dino Dig.,” said Lobb.

Batawa Development Corporation President, John Fox, explains why Lobb was a natural choice for Batawa’s environmental education & recreation centre.  “Darren came in and told us that he will make skiing experience at Batawa the best it has ever been. That’s our winter goal. This, combined with his financial and business experience, made him a natural fit for the Batawa Ski Hill as we move the ski hill to a year round education and recreation centre serving all of Quinte.”

Lobb began his duties in Batawa December first and has kicked things off by showcasing the talents of another new Batawa Ski Hill team member, Chef Trevor McMillan.  Saturday, December 3rd the ski hill featured “A Taste of Switzerland” culinary event that brought the tastes and sounds of the alps to fireside at the Batawa Ski Hill.  Chef Trevor’s fare was met with rave reviews and he promises a monthly “Taste of…” event in the months ahead.  You can enjoy Chef Trevor’s new menu daily throughout the ski season at the Batawa Bistro at the Hill.

Snowmaking began at the ski hill last week and despite the warm, wet weather, snowmakers are busy turning the hill white.  Lobb reports that the hill hopes to be open by December 17th.  The office is now open for Season’s Pass, gift certificate and retail sales before Christmas, Monday to Wednesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday & Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  .  Businesses who wish to be a sponsor at the Batawa Ski Hill this year can contact the office at 613-398-6568 or admin@batawaskihill.com.

Quick Facts:

• 1 Quad Chair Lift, 1 T-Bar Lift, 1 Handle Tow, uphill capacity of 4,000 persons per hour
• 8 trails including 1 terrain park
• Snow making system capable of covering the entire hill in 7 days with temperatures of -5 degrees C or cooler
• 4,500 square foot lodge including the Batawa Bistro
• Rental fleet to equip 200 guests
• 34,500 skier visits in 2010/11
• Dino Dig Park
• Access to over 25 km of recreational trails

The Hill is located in the village of Batawa just off Highway 33 only 5 minutes north of Highway 401. For more information call (613) 398-6568, email info@batawaskihill.com or visit the website at www.batawaskihill.com.

Yes it’s that time of year again! We are calling on our ski hill families and community members to take part in float decoration and walking with us in the Quinte area Santa Clause Parades! These parades are a great opportunity to get the Batawa Ski Hill name out there and interact with community residents.

Dec 2 – Stirling, 5:30pm meet time @ Stirling Fairgrounds

We want the Quinte region to think snow!

Please send an email to activities@batawaskihill.com confirming the day (or days) you are available to help out. These hours will count towards high school volunteer hours if required. We will be handing out stickers and candy. We do ask that people come dressed in their winter gear with skis or boards to walk with or display on the float.

All of us here thank you for your support and look forward to spreading the Batawa cheer for the upcoming season!

Reminder – All staff are required to attend this mandatory staff day! 9:00am – 1:00pm at the lodge. Please come prepared to be outside!

Teachers – Batawa is a great place for students of all ages to come and enjoy alpine skiing and snowboarding at its fullest!  We can accomodate small classes to large groups up to 200 students. For only $30.00 +HST, students will receive a lift ticket, rental equipment (helmet mandatory), an on hill evaluation and a 1-hour beginner lesson by our CSIA or CASI certified and experienced instructors. All teachers and 2 parent volunteers ski free!

If you are interested in booking a group or require further information please call the ski hill at 613-398-6568 or snowschool@batawaskihill.com. Dates are being fileld up fast, book early to ensure a day at Batawa.

Congratulations to our winner as voted by the judges Rene Lefort of Batawa Lions Club! Congrats to our Corporate Challenge winner “Rockin’ Chili with all the Mixin’s” (Mix 97/ Rock 107) and our fan favorite winner Quinte West Youth Advisory Council.Thank you to all of our guests and chili teams this past weekend! The event was a great success and lots of chili was eaten!!

 Join us this Sunday for our last brunch of the season 8:00am – 1:00pm

Thank you to Sharleen, Val, Allyson, Tasha & friends for their hard work all summer!

Need a lesson or two this upcoming winter? Batawa Ski Hill Snow School is the right place to learn and improve your skills on the hill. All of our lessons are on sale in August! We offer private, semi-private and group lessons from December to March. All times and dates – TBA. Visit our Snow School tab on the left for more information and registration forms.

Private (1 hour/ 1 person) – $36.80

Semi Private (1 hour/ 2+ people) – $24.00/ per person

5 Day Christmas Camp – $ 89.00 +tx

5 Week Session 1 (January) – $99.00 +tx

5 Week Session 2 (February) – $99.00 +tx

Group Lessons including 5 day lift tickets – $215.00 +tx

Ladies Night/ Mens Night (January – Weds/ Thurs Nights) – $99.00 +tx

5 Day March Break Camp – $89.00 +tx

Missed buying your pass in July? Batawa Ski Hill has decided to extend the July price for full season passes!! Join us for Sunday Brunch every Sunday in the month of August from 8:00am – 1:00pm. Adults, students, seniors and groups or families of 4 or more can buy at the July price with purchase of a meal ($380.25 for an adult full season pass, $315.25 for a student/ senior/ family/ group full season pass).

*August rates in effect* This year’s sale pricing features our newest pass offer – a $99.00 (+tax) Weekday Pass for those of you looking to ski Wednesday, Thursday and Friday days. The popular Night Pass is back again for $129.00 (+tax) allowing holders to ski every night were open. Perfect for after work or after school time to spend with family and friends. 

For the full time skiers and boarders look at purchasing a full season pass – good all day, every day when Batawa Ski Hill is open.  Adult pass sale price is $409.50 (+tax). Students/ Juniors/ Seniors pass sale price is $339.50 (+tax). Corporate Passes are an excellent idea for businesses at the low price of just $629.30 (+tax).

As with past seasons, pass prices will increase each month and be full price as of December 15^th. Buy early to save!

Application Forms can be found under the Season Pass tab on the left. Please call 613-398-6568 for additional information.

Visit the summer day camps page for information and registration forms.

Come join the best Ski Patrol Zone in Ontario and the second best in all of Canada!

 24 July 2011

 Batawa, Kingston, Barry’s Bay/ Frontenac Zone of the Canadian Ski Patrol System has two huge reasons to celebrate. In February the Zone was awarded the President’s Award for Most Outstanding Zone in Ontario at the Ontario Division Awards Banquet.  At the National Annual Conference in Winnipeg in June Frontenac Zone was the runner up for the Douglas Firth Trophy for Most Outstanding Zone in Canada!  Not a small feat considering that Frontenac Zone which has at present three ski areas to service, Batawa Ski Hill, just north of Trenton, Mt. Madawaska, south of Barry’s Bay and Little Cataraqui Conservation Area, Kingston has only 40 patrollers out of 1,400 in Ontario and 4,500 across the whole of Canada!

Frontenac Zone provides VOLUNTEER ski patrollers to our ski areas.  Each patroller undergoes a 60 plus hour Advanced First Aid Course that is second to none.  Patrollers are recertified annually in their Advanced First Aid Skills and On Snow Rescue Techniques which includes CPR level Healthcare Professional (CPR, Automated External Defibrillation, Bag Valve Mask and Oral Airways) Accident site management, one and two man toboggan handling. All our patrollers are certified by Instructors who are certified as part of our national Instructor Certification Program.

We are looking for new recruits to come and join the patrol, Alpine Skiers and Snowboarders for Batawa Ski Hill and Mt. Madawaska and Nordic Skiers for Little Cataraqui.  The zone is currently looking at expansion for Nordic Skiers at Goodrich-Loomis Conservation area near Codrington.  We also have First Aiders to patrol our Patrol rooms.  If you are willing to learn, want to help people, make fantastic friends, you are just the person we are looking for.

Frontenac Zone and Batawa Ski Hill will be hosting the 2012 Ontario Division First Aid Competition in February, the first time the Zone has hosted the competition in over 15 years, come be part of the team!

Training starts after Labour Day weekend.  You need to be 18 years or older, we can also have 16 and 17 year old patrollers subject to parental, Zone President and National approval. We also offer a modified Advanced First Aid Course to BTLS qualified persons.

If you are interested in joining the ski patrol please visit our website at http://frontenaczonecsps.yolasite.com/ call Andy 613-920-7447 or email at frontenaczoneprez@hotmail.com

Frontenac Zone “For the time of your life, or maybe someone else’s”

For more information contact:

Andrew Larcombe, Zone President

613-397-1895 mobile 613-920-7447

frontenaczoneprez@hotmail.com

www.frontenaczonecsps.yolasite.com

For the time of your life… And maybe someone else’s.

Giver Promo from Matt Bishop on Vimeo.

First promo video for the TVO series ‘Giver’ filmed right here in Batawa starring our own community kids! The newly renovated dino dig park is open to the public. Enjoy!

Grab your friends and family and join us at Batawa Ski Hill for a fun and exciting new adventure! Guided trail bike rides start this Sunday at 1:00pm.  Bring your own bike, helmet and water bottle for a trail ride with beautiful views from the ski hill summit and explore more than 25 kilometers of nature trails over 1600 acres of natural areas. 

All ages and skill levels are welcome, guides are experienced riders!

Cost is $5 person or $15 for a family of 4 or more.

Chef / Food Services Supervisor – (Full-time Position)

Batawa Ski Hill is seeking an experienced Chef to fill a full-time, year round position. The Food Services Supervisor will coordinate culinary activities and events including  Sunday Brunches, catering, special events, day camp lunches and nutrition breaks as well as all winter concessions with an emphasis on local foods and exceptional quality.

The ideal candidate will hold an advanced culinary certificate or have equivalent experience with a minimum of 4 years supervisory experience in a Food and Beverage environment.  An entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and knowledge of local foods are key to the candidate’s success.  Strong organizational skills and the ability to competently lead staff are required, along with experience using computers and basic office software. We seek an active, energetic individual who thrives in a team environment. A detailed job description is available by contacting 613 398 6568 or by email at gm@batawaskihill.com.

Resumes will be accepted by mail at P.O. Box 1128, Batawa Ontario, K0K 1E0 or E-mail at gm@batawaskihill.com until Wednesday June 22^nd at 4:00 pm

Registration form and parents info is now available on the summer camp page! Forms must be filled out in full and signed. Please drop off, email or fax with method of payment. We accept cash, cheque, credit card and debit.

Spring is in the Air!                                                    March 31, 2011

Batawa Ski Hill ended another record breaking season March 27^th with what was very likely the greatest late-season ski conditions ever. All 9 trails were open including the terrain park with an average base of more than 60cm and absolutely perfect groomed conditions. Saturday and Sunday turned out to be gorgeous sunny days just as the forecast predicted and with temperatures just above the freezing point throughout the day, the ski conditions remained beautiful all weekend long.

Thank you to all of our members, pass holders and guests for your support throughout the season and to our seasonal volunteers and staff for all their hard work and commitment in presenting Batawa Ski Hill at its finest every day.

Special thanks to the Frontenac Zone Canadian Ski Patrol and the Batawa Ski Racing Club for all the support and commitment over the years and for helping to make Batawa Ski Hill the success it is today.

Although Batawa has closed for the 2010/2011 ski season, we are gearing up for a busy spring and summer. Be sure to include Batawa in your weekend plans over the next few weeks with;

• Batawa Trash Bash Saturday April 16^th. BBQ at the Hill.
• Annual Batawa Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Saturday April 23 with Batawa Bistro serving breakfast 8am to 10am and the Easter Egg Hunt starting at 10am. There will be a petting zoo, climbing wall, fire truck displays, an Easter Bonnet contest and much more. This is a great event that attracts hundreds of families annually.
• Annual Mothers Day Brunch Buffet 8:30am-1:30pm Sunday May 8^th. Treat your mom to the best brunch buffet in Quinte West.
• The Batawa Bistro steps it up for summer with our deliciously famous Batawa Bistro Sunday Brunches. Beginning May 15^th the Bistro will be serving up the regions best home style breakfast and delectable local treats every Sunday 8am to 1pm. If you enjoyed the Bistro in the winter, you’ll love it in the summer!
• Quinte Children’s Water Festival May 25^th and 26^th. Hosted by the Lower Trent Conservation Authority.

Keep posted to the website for more upcoming events and programs including summer camp and Dino Dig.

We hope all of our winter guests enjoy a safe, healthy, active summer and we look forward to seeing you out at the hill in the coming months.         

Best Regards,

Steven Spiessman, General Manager

Batawa Ski Hill Keeps Winter Alive!

For immediate release                                                           March 24, 2011

Batawa/ Batawa Ski Hill is about to wrap up its 5^th consecutive record breaking season. Starting with the earliest opening on record, December 11 and followed by a cold and snowy winter Batawa was blessed with great conditions all season. The favorable weather not only brought out thousands more skiers than the previous seasons but also left the Ski Hill with more than enough snow to open all 8 trails and a terrain park  the last weekend of March.

“It’s been a great year” said General Manager Steve Spiessman, “ we had excellent temperatures for snowmaking, lots of late season natural snow and no January thaw when we typically lose some base depth.  We have just about as much snow on the hill right now as we had all season. It’s incredible!”

The weather forecast this weekend calls for nighttime lows of -9 and daytime highs around 0. Absolutely perfect spring skiing conditions according to Spiessman.

“With the nighttime lows below freezing the grooming equipment will produce conditions no different than mid season” says Spiessman. “New skiers are often pleasantly surprised at the amount of snow and ski conditions at the hill this time of year, long time skiers know we have snow left on the trails well into April.”

Batawa is celebrating this banner season with $10 tickets. Night Pass holders can ski for $5 and rentals are only $10 for anyone who doesn’t have their own equipment and for first timers who want to try out skiing on a nice spring day.

The Batawa Bistro will be serving up one of the best breakfast menus in the region all weekend as well, so even if you’re not a skier, stop out and enjoy a great breakfast with beautiful view.

The Hill is open for March 26^th and 27^th 9:00am to 4:30pm. Batawa Ski Hill is located just 5 minutes north of Highway 401 at the Trenton exit. For more information call (613) 398-6568, email info@batawaskihill.com or visit the website at www.batawaskihill.com.

2011-2012 Season Passes & Night Passes will go on sale July 1st!

Teagan, Raylea and Bridget enjoying some sunny spring skiing!

Tori riding the park!

Frank’s “BIG AIR”

All of our Dummies and Builders!

Take Off from the top!

T-Bar Boy getting some air!

Our winning dummy built by Jacob!

Jack skiing across the red pond!

Mike & Dean… where’s Mike?!

Green for St. Patty’s Day!

Colton mastering the red sea!

Dean switch rides the pond…

… and he makes it across!

Megan showing us how its done!

Our instructors celebrating Beach day!

Big air in the park!

View from the top!

Aaron splashing across the pond!  

Saturday, March 12 – Terrain Park Grand Finale @ 1pm (sign up at Guest Services, $20 per person – lots of prizes!)

Sunday, March 13 – Season Pass Holders Appreciation BBQ @ 11am – 3pm (free drink and burger or hotdog with pass, 1 per person)

Monday, March 14 – March Break Camp (sign up before 4pm on Sunday)

Friday, March 18 – Pond Jumping Contest @ 1 (sign up at Guest Services, $10 per person, $2 to Big Brothers)

Saturday, March 19 – Dummy Downhill Contest @ 1 (sign up at Guest Services, $10 per team, $2 to Big Brothers) &

Night Pass Holders Appreciation BBQ @ 4:30pm -7pm (free drink and burger or hotdog with pass, 1 per person) *Last night of night skiing 

DON’T MISS THESE EXCITING EVENTS TO WRAP UP A GREAT SEASON!

Batawa Ski Racing Club will finish their season Sunday at home at Batawa Ski Hill. Nancy Green, K1 and K2 racers were on the slopes for a fun day competing against eachother – and maybe a few parents if they’re feeling lucky! There will be a BBQ at noon and prizes in the lodge following the race. Congratulations on a fantastic and successful season!

For more info on the Race Club visit www.batawaskiracing.on.ca

Congratulations to our CSPS Frontenac Zone Ski Patrollers for winning the Ontario Division Presidents Award for the Most Outstanding Zone!

Bruno, Ron and Morgan competed fantastically during the competition and were very well received during the weekend.  Congraulations to Andy for personally being awarded an Ontario Division Appreciation Award! Frontenac Zone will be hosting the 2012 Ontario Division First Aid Competition at Batawa Ski Hill next season!  

  Fronenac Zone members Bruno, Andy, Morgan, Ron, and Evelyn receiving the award on behalf of the Zone from Division representative Guy Stewart on  February 26, 2011 in Sault Ste Marie.

Our Great Cake Race Teams! Cake race, trivia, cake decoration and taste judging made for an interesting and fun day!

The chairlift ride – what’s in there?!

Mixing Time!

Our judges tasting the competition… their face says it all!

Our winners - father/ daughter team Paul & JP!

Thank you to all the competitors for joining us! Next event is March 18 – Pond Jumping Contest and March 19 – Dummy Downhill Contest. Get your teams together and see website for details!

Spend Family Day at Batawa! Open 9:00am – 4:30pm, $15 +tx lift tickets for everyone, BBQ noon – 2pm, popcorn, music and fun! Rental equipment is first come first serve and we can only guarantee your size at 9am, so come early! Book your lessons now as there a limited number of times available.

Call 613-398-6568 for more information. Come Have Some Fun!

Batawa Ski Hill will be running another 5 week group lesson for Ladies only on Wednesday night’s starting Feb 16 (tonight).  Starts 7:00pm – 9:00pm. Total of 10 hours of instruction over 5 consecutive weeks. Regular cost: $129.00 +hst. Please call to reserve your spot or email snowschool@batawaskihill.com.

Nancy Green Racing is an entry level program for  6 to 10 year olds, with an emphasis on fostering a love for the sport while developing the FUNdamental skills required to become a competent skier.

$15 +HST lift tickets for all the ladies today! Sorry guys (your day is Feb 19th).

Our Terrain Park Competition will be postponed until next Wednesday, February 9th. Format will be a 5 week competition with the Grand Finale taking place on March 12th.

Check out these amazing video’s shot by Nathan Struthers featuring Batawa ski and snowboarders in Batawa’s new terrain park! More to come! 

Kevin and Taylor at Batawa Jan 22, 11 by Nathan Struthers

Batawa Night Ski Dec 22, 10 by Nathan Struthers

Are you a film maker or photographer? Send us your Batawa Ski Hill work and we may be able to put it up on the website and social media sites!

Terrain Park 6 Week Competition starts Wednesday, Feb 2 – 6:30pm. Register before 6:00pm and waiver must be signed at Guest Services. Under 18 requires parent signature.

Full Season Pass holders only! Pass must be presented at YMCA of Quinte West to receive discounts.

Regular Hours start Wednesday, January 5 – 4:30pm – 10:00pm

Discounted lift tickets are valid December 20, 2010 through January 9, 2011. $20 +hst for adults and $15 +hst for students, juniors and seniors.

***Full day is 9:00am – 4:30pm & Night 4:30 – 10:00pm***

*Sunday Group Lessons – STILL SCHEDULED FOR JAN. 2*

Sunday group lessons start January 2, 2011 – please see the whiteboard or Guest Services for times, rack number and instructor. Please arrive 30 mins before your lesson to ensure enough time for rental fittings.

Thank you to everyone that joined us NYE! A special thank you to magician Chris Westfall, DJ Scotty Lalonde, Gerry and Tony for their fireworks show and all staff for their hardwork to make the night a success!

Gift cards for day or night lift tickets and lift and rental packages now available! See Guest Services to purchase. Celebrate the winter season with these great gift ideas! Gift cards can only be purchased at the lodge.

Learn to ski or snowboard over the Christmas holidays!

Sign up for our 5 day Christmas Camp for either skiing or snowboarding. $109.00 +hst until december 15th – regular price $119.00 +hst. Starting December 20 at 10am or 1pm. A total of 10 hours of instruction with our certified instructors. (*Lift ticket and rentals not included).

It’s unprecedented.  Global warming has wreaked havoc on Ontario ski areas in recent years – but this year, Batawa will be open early, sending the first skiers and snowboarders up the lift on Saturday morning.

 The deep freeze that has gripped Ontario and dumped record-breaking amounts of snow on some areas has given Batawa optimal snow-making temperatures, allowing staff to make what Mother Nature didn’t – several feet of snow.

 “I sure would have liked to see some of those lake effect squalls come through our area,” said Steven Spiessman, Batawa Ski Hill general manager, ”but the temperatures have been excellent for making our own snow.”  

While the first of the snow storms where gripping other Ontario regions over the weekend, Batawa was making its own storm front. With the heavy investments made in their snowmaking system over the last few years, the ski area is fully equipped to do the job of Mother Nature when it comes to snow.

“It’s unbelievable how much snow we can put down on a cold night” says Joe Medved, Operations Supervisor at Batawa. “We covered two main trails completely over the weekend and are now working on the third. As some even colder temperatures are forecast for this week, I think we’ll have every trail covered by the start of the Christmas Break.”

 This is welcome news for the skiers and snowboarders eager to get out on the slopes this season.

 “I guess it’s really the perfect world for some people” laughs Spiessman, “no snow to shovel in the driveway but lots on the ski hill”.

Stephanie Adams, Batawa’s Administration Supervisor says Christmas Break lesson programs are filling up fast this year so they are making more space available.  ”More and more people are starting to hear about Batawa Ski Hill and how fortunate we are to have a ski area of this quality so close to home.”                                                                                                                                                          

“And we offer excellent ski & snowboard conditions.  The operations team does an amazing job with the hill.   I hear time and again from new guests that they just can’t believe how great the conditions are here,” Adams said., “And the snowmaking is really something to see.  It’s worth the trip to just drop out and see the guns in operation blanketing the hill with snow, particularly at night with our night lighting on.”

“The biggest difference between natural snow and machine made snow on the ski slope is that natural snow provides nearly 100% equal coverage” said Spiessman. “Machine made snow typically is made in piles, so it takes much more grooming time to get the same coverage as natural snow.”

Batawa Ski Hill offers 8 trails, a freestyle terrain park, a quad chairlift, T-bar lift and handle tow for beginners.  Runs range from 800 to over 1800 feet long.  Rentals are available for both skis and snowboards.  Most trails offer night lighting, so skiers and boarders can make an evening of it.  Guests and spectators can enjoy the fully-equipped lodge including the Batawa Bistro for light meals and snacks, and the warmth of a roaring fire.   And for those who have not yet tried skiing or snowboarding, lessons are available for all levels to get you on the hill and enjoying winter.

Batawa Hill will be open for operation Saturday, December 11 and Sunday, December 12 for day and night skiing with the first chair heading up the hill at 8:45 a.m. when Mayor John Williams hits the button to launch the 2010/2011 season. To celebrate the early opening day and night lift tickets are on sale for the weekend for only $10.

Batawa Ski Hill will be open daily through the Christmas Break 9:00am to 10:00pm, closing only the evening of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

New Years Eve will include the Ski Hill’s traditional Torch Light Parade and Party with tickets now available.  New Years Eve night skiing is reserved for New Years Eve Party Ticket holders only. Gather friends and family and join us to ring in the New Year.

Come Have Some Fun!

CSIA Level 1 – December 27 – 29th, cost $474.60 (Minimum age 15 years at time of course. Proof of age is required. Knowledge of CSIA skiing skills will be beneficial. Candidates must pass on-snow skiing tests and a teaching evaluation. Pre-registration required by Dec. 15)

CASI Level 1 – December 21 – 23rd, cost is $340.81 (Minimum age is 15 years old at time of course. Proof of age is required. Candidates must pass a riding test and a teaching evaluation. Pre-registration required by Dec. 7th)

*All new staff looking to instruct must be registered by the required dates and pass the course for employment.*

Recycled road laid in Batawa

November 23, 2010

Batawa/ Batawa Ski Hill, holding true to Batawa’s sustainable philosophy, held the grand opening of their new recycled roadway Tuesday. In cooperation with the City of Quinte West and the Batawa Development Corporation, the existing ski hill lane was realigned and then resurfaced with recycled asphalt reclaimed from nearby Highway 33 construction.

Sacred Heart students joined the celebration, eager for snow to arrive and for the snow guns to start blasting.   Representatives from the Batawa Ski Racing Club, Canadian Ski Patrol, Batawa Development Corporation, Battlefield Rental and the Municipality of Quinte West joined Sonja Bata, Chair and Mayor John Williams of Quinte West who cut the ribbon and declared the road open.

The new ½ km road to the ski hill was constructed using asphalt removed from the Highway 33 realignment just south of Frankford this past summer. “The timing was perfect” said Steve Spiessman, Batawa Ski Hill General Manager. “We really needed to make some improvements to our entrance laneway, which would become a minefield of potholes every spring, and the Highway 33 realignment was going to produce a large amount of material to be removed only short distance away.”

“Like many projects at the ski hill, the laneway was built with the partnership and cooperation of the community” said Spiessman.”

Jeff Leavitt, Caretaker of Properties for the Batawa Development Corporation, organized the project.  Leavitt brought together the local contractors, the municipal representatives and ski hill staff, widening the existing road, cutting drainage ditches and organizing the delivery and grading of the new asphalt surface.        

“We saw this as a great opportunity to bring together a not for profit with a need for infrastructure improvements, and the city who were seeking a location for the material in Batawa.  The cooperation made sense for everyone,” explained Batawa Caretaker Jeff Leavitt.    “The processed asphalt was graded out and rolled flat with a heavy vibrating roller/packing machine. The surface will remain very much like an asphalt road” said Leavitt.

The project was completed using granular material that needed to be removed from local jobsites to build up a solid base and light equipment was supplied by Battlefield Rentals in Trenton. Dibbit’s Excavation completed the drainage and ditching requirements. Carl Brooks Farms provided equipment for moving and leveling material on site. Labor was provided by the ski hill. The overall planning and implementation was taken care of by the Batawa Development Corporation and the recycled asphalt surface was brought in by the Highway 33 realignment crew and the Municipality of Quinte West.

Batawa Ski Hill will be open Mid December for ski and snowboard operations and will be open daily through the Christmas Break 9:00am to 10:00pm (closed Christmas day).

Give the gift of skiing this season! Batawa Ski Hill is participating in 2010-2011 Grade 4 & 5 SnowPass.

The CSC’s Grade 4 and 5 SnowPass program allows kids (or those born in 2000 or 2001) all across Canada the opportunity to give winter sports a chance with up to three free ski passes for each and every participating ski area in the province and region where they live, providing them with an opportunity to ski or snowboard hundreds of times over the winter season. 

“Skiing and snowboarding are an excellent way to keep our kids happy, healthy and active through the long winter months,” says Colin Chedore, President of the CSC. “An average child can burn up to 600 calories an hour, not to mention the sheer joy and exhilaration they’ll feel picking up a new sport.”

So how do you get your child a SnowPass? It’s easy! Visit www.snowpass.ca where you have two different choices for enrollment. You can upload your child’s picture, enter your payment and their proof of age, or our printed option that allows you to fill out the information, print the application to mail in to the Canadian Ski Council with a photo, proof of age and payment … all for a one-time administration fee of $20 plus taxes.  Signing up online is the quickest and easiest way to apply for your child’s Grade 4 & 5 SnowPass card.  SnowPass cards will be mailed straight to you just days after your application has been processed! SnowPass applications are also available through elementary schools and inside Sport Chek, Sport Mart, Sports Experts and Intersport stores across Canada.

Grade 4 and 5 SnowPass information and applications are available online at www.snowpass.ca or www.passeportdesneiges.ca.

Next PA Day is November 26th – 9:00am to 4:00pm

$21.00+ hst, extended care available. All ages welcome, pre-registration required. Please call 613-398-6568 to register. Come have some fun!

Orientation Day – November 27 @ 9:00am

All returning and new staff are required to attend the mandatory orientation this Saturday at the lodge. See you all there!

LOOKING FOR NEW OR USED EQUIPMENT?

Batawa Ski Racing Club’s Annual Ski Swap is the only place to find everything you need for the winter season!

You will find some of the best snowboards, skis, boots, bindings, poles, helmets, goggles, toques, mitts, snowshoes, speed suits, jackets and anything else you might need at amazing prices. You can also register for the 2010 racing season and purchase your discounted season passes and group lessons. Pass pictures will also be taken by ski hill staff.

Friday, Nov 5th - Drop off equipment 5:00pm – 9:00pm/ no sales

Saturday, Nov 6th - SALES 9:00am – 4:00pm

Sunday, Nov 7th - SALES 10:00am – 3:00pm/ pick up ends at 4pm (any money or equipment not picked up by 4:00 on Sunday is considered a donation)

*No straight skiis or used helmets will be accepted. Payments – cash/ cheque/ debit/ Mastercard/ Visa*

Please visit www.batawaskiracing.on.ca for more information.

Thank you to everyone that joined us this past Sunday for our last brunch and food night at the lodge. It was another successful fundraiser for our new kitchen appliances!

Look for the kitchen to once again open for the 2010-2011 winter season!

This year’s Harvest celebrations were held at the ski hill with the Chili Cook Off the feature event. Beautiful weather, pumpkin carving, chairlift rides and nine types of different chilies kept a record crowd of families and friends busy and raised over $1,000 towards new kitchen appliances for the lodge. Congratulations to our 2010 Champion, voted on by our chili-loving panel of judges, 95.5’s Steve Marlin and 2010 Fan Favourite Sacred Heart Gourmet Girls Olivia Tolmie and Renee Lamoureux, as voted by visitors.

Thank you to all of the chili teams – 95.5, Sacred Heart Gourmet Girls, City of Quinte West Youth Advisory Council, Nelson Bridger, Batawa Ski Hill, Cool 100, Sally Campbell, YMCA Kitchen Kids and Colleen & Peter DeBruyn. Thank you to our judges – Suzanne Andrews of Quinte West Chamber of Commerce, Mark Philbin of Starboard Communications and Serge Folschweiler, one of Batawa Ski Hill’s founding members and our supporters – Tomasso’s, The Frontline, Community Policing and Cheer Farms. Thank you all for joining us and we look forward to next year and making the event bigger, better and hotter!

Thank you to those who joined us this past Sunday for our brunch and comfort food night! We are fundraising for new kitchen appliances and will be hosting many events in the near future. Our next food night will be October 24th – check back for more details!

Batawa Ski Hill and the Batawa Ski Racing Club took part in the Quinte Mall Club Registration days on September 10/11th. This was an excellent opportunity for the public to ask questions and meet ski hill staff and racing team parents and volunteers. This year we had a draw for a FREE NIGHT PASS and had over 100 names entered. Thank you to all the volunteers that helped over the weekend.

Congratulations to Chris Forsythe of Trenton for winning the free Night Pass! 

A big THANK YOU to everyone that joined us on Saturday! The food was good, the music was rocking and everyone had a great time. To everyone involved in the organization of the event and to our volunteers, we couldn’t have done it without you! To all of our sponsors, we appreciate your support!

www.mystickick.com – Belleville’s best classic rock tribute band.

Join us Sunday, August 22 for some of your favourites! Comfort Food night will feature spaghetti and meatballs, beef and yorkshire pudding, shepard’s pie and meatloaf to name just a few! Buffet style – $12.95 and $6.00 for kids under 6. Rooftop patio weather permitting.

Thank you to all of you in attendance at our Seafood, Chinese and Italian Nights at the hill! Many great comments were heard on the service and food. A great job to Sharleen, Tim, Ritchie and Val for another excellent International Food Night!

2010-2011 Pass Holders Application Form (Group, Corporate, Student, SR, Night)

LESSONS ALSO ON SALE! SEE OUR SNOW SCHOOL PAGE.

Batawa Ski Hill is now offering season passes at discounted summer prices! Adult season passes are $373.75, student/senior passes are $308.75, corporate passes are $584.35 and night passes are only $99.00. Group passes (4 or more) are also on sale!

Purchase before August 31st to save. Purchases can be made at the lodge during summer office hours or over the phone with a credit card.

*HST not included in these prices and will be charged during purchase.

A big thank you to all of our visitors this past weekend! The Studio Tour and Sunday Brunch was a great success.

Artists Rose Brown, Donna Bonin and Fern Tucker showcased their work and mingled with guests throughout the 2 day event. For more information visit www.artsquintewest.ca.

Batawa Ski Hill is offering week-long day camps throughout July and August for children ages 6-14. There are a variety of indoor and outdoor activities every week this summer and lunch is provided.

Please see the Summer Camp link for more information and registration forms!

Batawa Ski Hill is now offering a brunch every Sunday from 8:00am to 1:00pm. Service is a la carte and all of our menu items are under $10.00. Come enjoy our fresh local ingredient specials and dine with family and friends.

Support your non-for profit community ski hill! We look forward to seeing you!

Snowmaking at Batawa Ski Hill – Jerome Lessard

Ad for Website 2009_2010 SeasonFor more information download attached link.

Starting on May 3, 2009 Batawa Ski Hill will be hosting Breakfast at the Hill every Sunday in May, June, July and August!

Enjoy a fresh meal made with local ingredients by our guest chef.  Visit the exhibitors’ displays to learn more about local food and products.  Hike the hill or explore the trails.  Sundays have never been better!

Download Batawa Ski Hill 2007 Brochure

Nestled in the picturesque hamlet of Batawa, is the Batawa Ski Hill. Established in 1955 by a dedicated group of Bata Shoe factory employees, they obtained permission from Mr. Thomas Bata to clear some trees and install a homemade rope tow on one of the hills close to the shoe factory. These employees had a keen interest in community spirit and skiing. With hard work and sheer determination they founded the Batawa Ski Hill. Today, the ski hill has evolved to three lifts and seven runs with state of the art snow making and grooming.

There is no better place to learn how to ski or snowboard in the area. The snow school and it’s certified instructors offer lessons for the novice skier/snowboarder to the expert and everyone in between. The Batawa Ski Racing club also boasts a strong race program for children ranging in age from 5 to 17.

Batawa is a great place to ski and snowboard! It is so much fun!