Ski Cape Smokey: Best Community Ski Hill

Ski Canada Magazine's winter issue has named Ski Cape Smokey one of Canada's best community ski hills and the one with "the most breathtaking ocean view of any ski hill in the country."

The magazine also notes that the facility has the highest vertical drop in Nova Scotia, at 300 metres, and the longest run in the province, at 2.4 kilometres.

"Congratulations to the ski hill and the community for winning this accolade," said Economic Development Minister Ernest Fage. "Your patience, support and commitment to Ski Cape Smokey over the past few seasons has been rewarded with this honour."

"The Ski Cape Smokey team enjoys providing an excellent experience for the skiing and snow boarding public," said Marie Cummings, general manager. "This just shows us that our efforts have not gone unnoticed."

Ski Cape Smokey was one of six ski hills from across the country to be chosen by the magazine.

Throughout the winter, the Cape Breton ski hill generates 28 jobs for local residents and attracts up to 300 skiers and snowboarders a day. This influx of business brings with it revenue, not only to the ski hill, but to neighbouring businesses as well.

"In order to operate a successful accommodation business in this area it is necessary to have more than a few months of high occupancy rates," said Jill Humphries, owner of Ingonish Chalets. "Having Ski Cape Smokey open, breathes life into the industry throughout the winter season, giving businesses a real boost in the traditionally slower months."

Increased activity on the ski hill this year has prompted Ski Cape Smokey to extend its hours to include Wednesday evenings in addition to the regular Thursday to Monday schedule. Musical entertainment on Saturday nights also has visitors trading in their skis for dancing shoes.

For information on ski conditions and hours of operation, see the Ski Cape Smokey website at www.skicapesmokey.com or call 902-285- 2760.