batawa history

When the Bata Shoe Factory was established, a vibrant community quickly grew around it, forming the village of Batawa. In 1959, a group of dedicated volunteers carved a trail into the local hill, creating what would become the ski slope that has been cherished by the village and surrounding areas for decades.

The ski hill began modestly, with a rope tow ingeniously powered by modifying a truck’s rear wheel. Despite its simplicity, the hill quickly became a centerpiece of winter recreation for families in the Quinte Region. A small building served as a snack bar, and basic grooming equipment ensured that the slopes were ready for skiers of all ages.

In 1979, with the help of a Wintario grant, a new ski chalet was constructed. This facility included a dining area, an equipment rental space, and expanded storage for gear. The addition of hill lighting and snowmaking capabilities marked a turning point, allowing Batawa Ski Hill to grow and thrive as a regional destination.

By 2006, the ski hill was formally incorporated as Batawa Community Sports Inc. For 51 years, it had been entirely volunteer-driven, a testament to the community's spirit and dedication. However, by 2010, the increasing costs of operating a ski hill put its future in jeopardy.

Enter Mrs. Sonja Bata, a long-time resident and passionate supporter of the community. Recognizing the ski hill's importance to Batawa and the broader Quinte Region, she made the commitment to keep it running. Her investment sparked significant improvements, including upgrades to the snowmaking system, grooming equipment, and LED hill lighting, as well as the installation of a state-of-the-art quad chairlift.

Since then, the ski hill has continued to evolve. The rental shop was modernized, a new point-of-sale system was introduced, and in 2018, the chalet underwent a full renovation, supported by a C-150 grant.

Today, Batawa Community Sports Inc., operating as Batawa Ski Hill, remains a not-for-profit organization with a clear mission:

"To be the #1 choice in active outdoor recreation in the Quinte Region by providing the highest standards in service, product, and safety for all of our members, guests, and employees as a sustainable, community-based, non-profit organization."

Looking ahead, our vision is to uphold these values and continue offering the very best in family-friendly winter recreation for the Quinte Region and beyond.