Those ready to hit all the fresh powder at Canyon Ski Hill this weekend have a new option when it comes to parking.
The alpine recreational facility, just 10 minutes east of Red Deer at 38433 Range Road 264A, opened its upper parking lot Saturday.
The parking lot allows season pass holders and anyone wishing to purchase lift tickets the option of parking at the top of the slope and skiing or snowboarding down.
A lift ticket window booth has been set up and will be selling lift tickets only.
Anyone needing rental equipment will still have to make the trek down the hill — a venture that requires winter tires.
The upper parking lot option (big enough for about 500 vehicles) is also ideal for parents who will be just passing through, dropping off and picking up their children.
Staff at the ski resort said they expect the upper parking lot to be open on weekends and bad road days for the rest of the season.
“With all the snow we’ve been having, feedback from our guests suggested having a parking lot up above the hill to make those nervous about driving down more comfortable,” said Robyn Martel, one of the owners. “It’s plowed and ready to go.”
It’s the first time the upper parking lot has been opened since the Alois Kunc and David Martel families purchased the resort in 2010.
For more information, call 403-346-5588.