Tyler Wright | Special to the Fitzhugh
COVID has been no easy slope to navigate in 2020, but with the ski and snowboard season right around the corner, Marmot Basin is expecting a great run despite current circumstances.
“Busy and thoughtful” were two words used by vice president Brian Rode to describe the energy at Marmot Basin as the year-round team prepares to open in November for the 2020/21 season.
In addition to seasonal planning and hill maintenance, there has been an entire element of complexity added to daily operations as COVID regulations and social distancing measures are implemented.
From the parking lot to the top of the chairlift, protecting the health and safety of guests and employees will be first and foremost. Also, instilling a sense of confidence in guests that their time on the hill is both fun and safe.
At Marmot’s annual job fair back in August, there was no shortage of applicants. While international borders and work abroad programs are paused, meaning there are fewer foreign applicants, that doesn’t mean fewer workers on the hill.
Rode said there was an increase in applicants both regionally and from other provinces like British Columbia and Saskatchewan, some even as far away as central and eastern Canada. With many people working reduced hours or out of work completely, Rode said the hiring fair was a great success for those looking to land a job this winter.
Marmot is forecasting lots of regional traffic to visit the hill.
“People want to get away but are restricted to where and how frequently they travel due to COVID. Visiting a town like Jasper is the ideal staycation.” said Rode.
What can be expected this year when visiting Marmot?
The hill will be open seven days a week with COVID measures in place like wearing a mask indoors, plexiglass barriers and socially distanced tables. Dining areas and lounges will be running at 50 per cent capacity with new grab and go options for food and drink.
To help aid in social distancing there will be 25, 10 foot by 10 foot heated tents set up around the mountain. This will provide adequate shelter to patrons while dispersing the population on the hill.
To ease the weekend rush, mid-week deals for those who hit the slopes on a weekday will be offered. While there isn’t a reservation required to ski, Marmot is encouraging people to take advantage of advanced sales, and pre-book lessons, equipment rentals, etcetera. There will be dedicated staff for cleaning and all staff will be following rigorous regimental check-ins before and during shifts.
“As a ski area operator our goal is to give people the best on hill experience,” Rode said.
“Reset your expectations for the little things, some patience will be required this season.
“At the end of the day, people want to ski and we want them to be safe on and off the hill so they can enjoy themselves and just have fun.”
Go to skimarmot.com for updated information, and guidelines for when visiting the hill this year.
