City of North Bay Secures Future of Laurentian Ski Hill with $1.4 Million Acquisition

The City of North Bay has officially taken ownership of the Laurentian Ski Hill, finalizing a $1.4 million CAD (~$1.025 million USD) acquisition intended to preserve the urban slopes for future generations.

The deal, approved by City Council, sees the municipality purchase approximately 50 hectares of escarpment land from the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA), a non-profit environmental organization that had owned the assets since the late 1990s.

A Strategic Asset for the Community

The acquisition includes the hill’s vertical terrain—a local favorite boasting a 300-foot vertical drop—and the Interpretive Centre building located at the summit. Under the new arrangement:

• Club Operations: The Laurentian Ski Hill and Snowboard Club will continue to operate the facility under a new lease agreement with the City.

• The Lease-Back Deal: The NBMCA will remain in its headquarters at the summit building, leasing the space back from the City. This lease-back is reportedly valued at approximately $330,000 CAD (~$220,000 USD) annually.

• Conservation Future: While the NBMCA will remain operational for the time being, the sale of its primary recreational asset has raised questions regarding its long-term future, particularly amid broader provincial discussions surrounding the consolidation of conservation authorities.

Protecting the "Economic Engine"

The move to bring the hill under municipal control was largely driven by a desire to stabilize the facility's finances. Since 2023, the City has been providing an annual operational subsidy of up to $100,000 CAD (~$73,000 USD) to keep the lifts spinning. By owning the land directly, the City aims to ensure the hill remains a permanent fixture of North Bay’s recreational landscape, much like its arenas and parks.

“We know that this is an economic development tool we utilize day in and day out within our City,” said North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico. “Having a ski hill in operation for our kids is no different than an arena, ballpark, or soccer field.”

Preserving "Magic" in the City

For many residents, Laurentian Ski Hill is more than just a sports venue; it is a unique urban feature that provides accessible winter recreation just minutes from the downtown core. The City’s intervention ensures that the 100-year legacy of skiing on the Laurentian Escarpment continues without the looming threat of closure due to the NBMCA’s shifting mandate or financial constraints.

While the transition moves forward, the trail networks and green space surrounding the hill will remain open to the public, maintaining the "magical" atmosphere that local leaders say sets North Bay apart from other Northern Ontario hubs.

Laurentian Ski Hill is North Bay’s favourite alpine adventure destination. The hill is a 300-foot vertical drop featuring a variety of terrain, including gentle slopes for beginners, challenging runs for experienced skiers, and terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts. The friendly and professional staff, along with the welcoming atmosphere, make Laurentian Ski Hill a go-to destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

The hill is conveniently located just minutes from Downtown North Bay. Parking is available at both the top and bottom of the hill, with the bottom providing convenient access to the main chair. Rental equipment and lessons for first-timers are available.