Alison Wines and her family journeyed from Toronto to Revelstoke, B.C., last year for the ski season, only to discover that the snow conditions were superior back home in Ontario. This disappointing experience highlighted the increased unpredictability of winters and ski conditions due to climate change.
As a seasoned skier, Wines expressed how skiing is a sport that bridges generations within families. However, she noted the mounting climate challenges facing the activity. Having worked with Protect Our Winters Canada and now running her own outdoor consultancy, Wines emphasized the integral role of winter activities in Canadian culture and the urgent need to address climate change to preserve these traditions.
Maintaining a consistent ski season, which typically spans around 100 days during winter, is crucial for both resorts and skiers planning their visits. Madeleine Orr, a sport ecology professor at the University of Toronto, highlighted the financial viability of ski resorts and the impact of fluctuating weather conditions on visitor decisions and industry sustainability.
With 2025 ranking as the third-warmest year on record and ongoing warming trends linked to greenhouse gas emissions, the challenges facing the ski industry are escalating. While snowmaking can compensate for natural snow scarcity, Orr emphasized the necessity of sustained cold weather for snow preservation.
The decline of over half of North American ski resorts since the 1970s, partly attributed to climate change’s impact on snowfall patterns, underscores the industry’s vulnerability. As temperatures rise, ski seasons shorten, and operational costs increase, necessitating innovative approaches to sustain profitability.
The escalating costs associated with skiing pose a challenge for families, with expenses for a weekend trip easily surpassing thousands of dollars. Paul Pinchbeck of the Canadian Ski Council acknowledged the financial constraints faced by consumers and stressed the industry’s focus on increasing participation to offset rising costs.
Despite the financial burdens, interest in snow sports remains steady, with a gradual growth in participation rates. Statistics Canada data also indicates a rise in skiers, both domestic and international, contributing to increased revenue at Canadian ski resorts. However, escalating expenses are eroding profit margins, prompting resorts to diversify into year-round destinations offering a range of activities.
For families seeking more affordable options, local snow slopes like Earl Bales Park and Glen Eden provide accessible alternatives. These smaller resorts implement snowmaking technologies to ensure consistent operations amidst changing weather patterns, demonstrating a commitment to sustaining winter sports at a grassroots level.