Milton’s Glen Eden ski resort thriving despite record mild winter

While most people love an early spring, warmer weather and sunny skies, there are some out there who much prefer a cold snap and 10 more centimetres of snow.

AJ Leeming is one of those people.

He’s the senior manager of programs and services with Conservation Halton, and that means Glen Eden ski resort in Milton falls under his purview.

And although they’ve been able to survive this abnormally mild winter, he’s hoping for a little help from Mother Nature as this Family Day long weekend approaches.

“It’s supposed to be a few degrees below zero this weekend, and a bit of snow in the forecast, and that’s perfect weather for a family outing to Glen Eden,” said Leeming in an exclusive interview with halton.insauga.com.

Leeming admitted it’s been a bit of a challenge this year convincing more casual skiers and snowboarders that the conditions have been good at the hill, located in Kelso Conservation Area.

“Our members have been wonderful. We have record numbers this year and they’re coming out because they know we’re able to provide great conditions. But I get it, when someone wakes up and it’s 10 degrees out and the grass is green, heading to the ski hill might not be the first thing they think of.”

So how has Glen Eden been able to not just get by, but actually thrive during a winter of record low snow and record high temps?

“We’ve been investing in top-quality snow-making machines for several years now, and it’s really paid off this year. During the cold snap we had in early January we were able to really prepare for the season.”

Leeming is someone who looks on the bright side of things and he was able so see the silver lining of the warm weather.

“For people trying skiing or snowboarding for the first time, kids on school trips or newcomers to Canada, this warmer weather has been a boon. I think they’re much more likely to come back in the future if they had an enjoyable first experience.”

Leeming gives a lot of credit to the Glen Eden staff for getting ready for the season.

“Of course the mild winter has been a challenge, but once we opened, we stayed open. The staff did what was necessary, including running the snow-making machines overnight, when the temperatures were cold enough. The slopes have been well-covered with snow, from side to side.”

Leeming expects about six more weeks of the slopes being open.

“I’ve always thought skiing and snowboarding is the perfect winter sport. Parents aren’t just sitting around watching their kids play hockey or figure skate. They’re out there with them, having fun and making memories.”

For more information about Glen Eden, including ski conditions and lift ticket purchases, visit here.