Winter weather boosts skiers, businesses in Ottawa-Gatineau

The recent snowfall created the perfect conditions for skiing on the slopes and trails in the national capital region. CTV’s Kimberley Johnson reports.

The winter weather has not just helped out festivals and events in the region, it’s also created excellent conditions for those getting out and active, and the businesses that cater to them.

After the capital region received 15 centimetres of snow into Friday morning, the fresh snow conditions have created great downhill skiing conditions at hills like Mont Cascade.

Luc Desormeaux is Mont Cascade’s vice president. He says thousands are expected to hit the slopes on Saturday, adding to an already strong season over last.

“We’ve had a great winter so far. We’ve had very little thaw, just between Christmas and New Year’s, just a couple days. So, it’s a great ski season,” he said.

“February is a busy month. February is normally the snow month, so it hasn’t let us down yet.”

Those like three-year-old Oscar trying it for the first time this season. His parents say the 15 centimetres have created great conditions for learning.

“Fifteen cm makes a difference,” said his father, Hugh Doyle. “We’ve had a great day – looking forward to (more) runs. No ice. It’s great.”

His mother, Lindsay Doyle, says it’s a great way to get outside.

“It’s a perfect day,” she said.

On the other side of the Ottawa River, cross country skiers at the Kichi Sibi Trail feel the same.

Sander Van Walraven with Fresh Air Experience says he’s rented out more than 50 skis on Saturday.

“Probably at least double the amount of skis that I’ve rented out compared to my previous weeks,” van Walraven said.

The sport has given a boost for business, as many new people are giving it a try, like Mavis Del A Colina who rented skis to be out for the first time after moving to Ottawa from Cuba.

The combination of the Ottawa River views, and the promise of more snow on the way means she plans to try it again soon.

“It’s so beautiful,” she said. “I think when the sky’s so blue and the weather is so nice, you need to go out.”