What skiers can expect at Crabbe Mountain this winter
While covid regulations are continually changing, one thing is for sure – Crabbe Mountain is full steam ahead on preparing for its 2020/2021 winter season.
As with many businesses, Crabbe had to make adjustments to their usual routine in order to adhere to covid regulations, but “a lot of good has come from it too,” says Jordan Cheney, general manager.
“We’re pushing a lot of sales to our web platforms which will reduce the demand on lineups and indoor space so, that’ll stick around. It makes our lives easier and makes the process quicker for our guests.”
Day tickets will be sold online and made available to collect at a pick-up window upon arrival. With restrictions to indoor spaces, Cheney is encouraging skiers to consider tailgating this season and use their vehicles as their personal lodge and locker.
Other changes that guests can expect will include table service instead of cafeteria-style to eating areas, outdoor washroom facilities, and a 90-foot greenhouse structure for general seating.
“We’re going to fill [it] with picnic tables for people who bring lunch or want space to warm up. We can do some creative things in there with our brewery partners – we’re doing a revolving bar. We’ll play around with that space and make it a pretty cool environment,” says Cheney.
Masks will be required in lift lines and loading areas which will be spaced out to allow for physical distancing. Chairs won’t be loaded full unless skiers are in a bubble.
The snow school will also be doing things differently this year. The ratio of students to instructor has decreased for group lessons and there will be more tools to replace hands-on instruction. Start times will be staggered to avoid overlap inside the lodge during the lunch hour.
Considering the unpredictable nature of the pandemic, Cheney says Crabbe Mountain has prepared to offer pro-rated refunds or credits to skiers if they are forced to close due to government restrictions.
“We’re rolling with it, like I said, there’s good that comes with all these changes and it forces you to think ahead.”
Crabbe Mountain is due to open on December 5th, 2020.
Something to look forward to
Crabbe Mountain has been chosen as the site for the alpine ski, para alpine ski, and freestyle ski events during the 2023 Canada Winter Games.
Prince Edward Island is the official host but because of limited downhill skiing facilities in the province, New Brunswick will be hosting those events.
Kyle Dudley, CEO of the 2023 Canada Games Host Society, says “Our goal is to build an incredible experience for the athletes while showcasing our warm Maritime hospitality, and the team and venue at Crabbe Mountain will help us bring this vision to life.”
The news is welcomed by Cheney who hopes to make some upgrades to Crabbe.
“It’s exciting and nerve wracking in that we’ve got lots to do between now and 2023 but we’re confident in being able to pull it off really well.”
Improvements will focus on additional space and accessibility to accommodate athletes and spectators.
“The Games are an important opportunity for New Brunswick and Crabbe Mountain to showcase the quality of our many winter recreational experiences in central New Brunswick,” says Cheney.