Big Bam to open on Boxing Day

Friday, December 18, 2009

The Big Bam Ski Hill is set to open on Boxing Day, after a 12-year absence.

Volunteers have been working their tails off to prepare for next week’s opening, and to turn the Taylor hill into a family-friendly ski destination.

Organizers have brought in a brand-new lift from Europe that will carry 400 people per hour, 750 feet up the hill.  They have also just purchased a second lift that will come into operation next season.

Spokesperson Duane Brooks says Big Bam will be an open-concept hill, where riders will be able to choose their own route down.  There will be a terrain park, and more difficult slopes on offer.  Anyone looking for a bigger challenge, can hike a little further uphill from the lift’s unload area, and enjoy more pristine runs.

It’s taken a big effort to get the hill ready for operations, but Brooks says, thanks to the hard work of countless people, things are falling into place.

More volunteers are needed, and Brooks says that runs from general labourers, to ski-patrollers and first-aid staff, to lifties, to chalet and pro-shop staff.

Brooks also says he has a long list of companies and individuals who have contributed time and materials to get the hill running.  For the terrain park alone, Rona, Highland industries, and Patchpoint all donated time and materials.  Jesper’s Welding also worked hard to set up the rails, and Brooks says the terrain park will be a big part of drawing snowboarders to the hill.  He also singles out the NPSS Oscars Football club, for donating a building for the pro-shop, and Telus for donating the tow shack.

The first day of skiing at Big Bam is set for December 26th, while the formal Grand Opening is scheduled for January 2nd.

At first, Big Bam will only be open on weekends, from 10-4.  But, the hill will soon add night skiing, and at that point, Big Bam will also be open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 7-10 p.m.

If convenience isn’t enough, the prices are sure to keep skiers in the region.  Big Bam will offer family seasons passes for $450 per season.  Single seasons passes cost $250 for adults, and $150 for youths.   Single day passes cost just $20 for adults and $15 for youths.  Half-day rates are also available, and will include the night-skiing.

*** The opening of Big Bam has now been delayed until Jan. 2.  For more information, click here.