Answers to Our Most Common Questions
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Skiing & Snowboarding
What if other members of my group ski or snowboard but I don't?
You can bring members of your family or group and try other activities while they ski. We have options such as snow tubing, snowshoeing, or ziplining (coming soon). You can also cozy up by the fires in our lodge with a cup of coffee, tea, or another beverage!
How can I check snow conditions before I go?
Visit our snow conditions report. It’s updated daily and gives you a summary of the temperatures, trails open, lifts running, weather conditions, and more. We update our reports every morning by first light. We post our conditions report on our website, phone systems, and with the Ontario Snow Resort Association. You can also check road conditions directly from our website.
What will it cost?
Skiing is not as expensive as you might think. Our Start Anytime offers great value and convenience. Need a lesson, rental equipment, and a lift ticket? Our Discover Skiing / Snowboarding Packages are just the ticket. Our “Start Anytime, Timed Tickets” are another great option, and they allow you to ski/snowboard as long as you like with the option to upgrade. As for clothing, you probably already have clothes that could double as ski outfits.
Should I take a lesson?
Did someone teach you how to drive? Of course, it’s the easiest way to learn the “rules of the road.” Snow Valley offers a great Beginner Learning Center area with a wide, gentle slope, two handle tows and one carpet lift. Lessons are offered with Discover Skiing / Snowboarding Packages.
At the Ski School Bell, located just outside the Rental Shop, your Snow Pro will introduce himself and familiarize you with your equipment. During the first lesson, you will learn how to walk, maneuver and control your skis/snowboard by turning, slowing down and stopping. When you are ready, the Snow Pro will show you how to ride the beginner lifts and will ski/ride down the beginner’s slope with you. After your lesson, you can continue practicing what you’ve already learned.
After you have mastered the fundamental skills of skiing/riding (turning, slowing down, stopping and riding a lift), you can explore other trails while you practice what you’ve learned. Keep to the “Easier” trails marked with green circles. There will be signs marked at the beginning of the trail.
1st Timer Skiers or Boarders
How safe is skiing?
Statistically, skiing is no more hazardous than bicycling or tennis. It used to be, though, in the days of long, stiff wood skis, leather boots and non-release bindings. With modern equipment such as shaped skis, high-support plastic boots and release bindings, skiing is much safer. For more information, check out this link to the Canadian Ski Patrol.
How long will it take to learn?
During your first day, you’ll learn how to turn, slow down, stop and ride the lifts. Generally if you are trying skiing or for the first time, you should be able to do quite a bit on your first day.
Snowboarding is a bit more difficult the first time. However, the learning curve is much easier after just a few tries. With Snow Valley’s modern teaching methods, you can be past the beginner stage after three or four lessons
Do I have to be in shape?
You don’t have to be an athlete to ski. Today, modern equipment does most of the work for you. If you do some exercises before your first ski or snowboard experience, you will enjoy it more. First of all, you’ll learn faster, because you won’t tire so easily during the learning process. You’re going to fall down some while learning so you’ll bounce back faster if you’re in shape. Walking briskly, jogging, jumping rope, or stretching is best. Of course, if you have any concerns about your health you should check with your doctor.
How can I check snow conditions before I go?
Visit our snow conditions report. It’s updated daily and summarizes the temperatures, trails open, lifts in operation, weather conditions, and more. We update our reports every morning by first light. We post our conditions report on our website, phone systems, and with the Ontario Snow Resort Association. You can also check road conditions directly from our website.
What will it cost?
Skiing & snowboarding is not as expensive as you might think. Our Discover Skiing/Snowboarding Packages are just the ticket. These packages included your ticket to our Adventure Learning Centre, equipment rental and a beginner lesson. Our “Start Anytime, Timed Tickets” are another great option and allow you to ski/snowboard as long as you like with the option to upgrade. As for clothing, you probably already have clothes which could double as a ski outfit.
Should I take a lesson?
Did someone teach you how to drive? Of course, it’s the easiest way to learn the “rules of the road.” Snow Valley offers a great Adventure Learning Centre area with a wide, gentle slope and three carpet lifts. Lessons are offered with Discover Skiing/Snowboarding Packages.
At the Ski School Bell, located just outside the Rental Shop, your Snow Pro will introduce himself and familiarize you with your equipment. During the first lesson you will learn how to walk, maneuver and control your skis/snowboard by turning, slowing down and stopping. When you are ready, the Snow Pro will show you how to ride the beginner lifts and will ski/ride down the beginner’s slope with you. After your lesson you can continue practicing what you’ve already learned.
After you have mastered the fundamental skills of skiing/riding (turning, slowing down, stopping and riding a lift), you’ll be able to explore other trails while you practice what you’ve learned. Keep to the “Easier” trails which are marked with green circles. There will be signs marked at the beginning of the trail.
When should I call "last run"?
Always think twice before making that “last run of the day.” Skiing and snowboarding involve lots of physical exertion, and you’ll be tired toward the end of the day. That’s the time when concentration starts to slip and accidents occur.
Think before you head for that last run, and if you’re tired, pack it in for the day. That way you can be sure that you’ll be able to enjoy another day of fun on the
Season Passes
When can I use my season pass?
Almost Anytime Passes are valid except during daytime hours (9:00 AM to 3:00 PM) on Saturdays and Sundays in January and February. They are valid at all other times! Night operations are scheduled to start on Friday, December 20th, 2024, weather permitting.
Anytime Passes are valid anytime we are open for skiing and snowboarding: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday through Sunday and 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Monday.
What do you consider to be a “Family” for Family Passes?
A “family” consists of two adults and two children under the age of 18, as of December 31, 2024, who are living at home. Proof of ID may be required.
Additional family members must be purchased at time of Family purchase.
What if I lose my pass?
Let Information Services know right away. Passes are often found and turned in. In the interim we will provide one complimentary ticket. We will replace your pass for a $25.00 administration fee.
What if I forget my pass?
Our Information Services staff will issue you a complimentary “forgotten pass” ticket for one time only. If you forget your pass a second time you will have to purchase a regular priced lift ticket.
NOTE: Should a “forgotten pass” ticket or a season pass be found on a person other than the pass-holder to whom it was issued, the passholder in question will have their pass revoked without refund.
How do I display my Season Pass?
Season passes must be visible at all times to lift staff. Do not store your pass in a pass pocket. Season passes must not be altered in any manner.
Lesson Programs
How are groups made?
All our groups are created based on Skiing/Snowboarding Ability and Age. Our primary focus is to get groups with similar skill abilities together. This promotes the learning experience and makes for a more enjoyable group dynamic. We form groups based on age to encourage social experience for our students. Based on abilities, it is not always possible to have exact matches in age, but we are always considerate of ‘age-appropriate’ placements.
All students will be evaluated in the first two weeks of lessons and, if necessary, moved to a different class/level.
Special requests will be considered but will not always be granted due to the high enrollment volume. If you have requested a specific instructor, groupings with friends, or anything beyond our regular grouping methods, we will do our best to accommodate you. Please respect that we care where each student is placed and aim to provide the best groupings for all involved in our programs.
Are make-up lessons available?
Unless the Snow School has cancelled a program, there are no make-up lessons for group programs. Missed lessons by students, for any reason, in a multi-week program cannot be made up and will not be refunded.
Can I attend another class if I miss my regular scheduled lesson?
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate jumping into another group. To maintain consistency in our class sizes, safety and flow of progression, we cannot have students attend classes they are not assigned to.
Are there classes on Family Day Weekend?
There are NO program classes for the 2024-2025 season on Family Day weekend, February 15th and 16th. The only exception to this is U League Race Teams, which will run.
Will I have the same instructor throughout my program?
We intend to have the same Instructor teach the same group each week, but just as students sometimes miss days, so do our Instructors.
If an Instructor is unable to teach their usual class for some reason, a substitute will be provided.
Can I watch my kids in their lessons?
Everyone on a sliding surface must have a valid lift ticket or pass, limiting the locations from which to watch lessons occur.
Our Kidz Village has bleachers to watch, and our Adventure Learning Centre is partially viewable from our Day Lodge Deck.
For parents who are skiing/snowboarding, if you would like to observe, please do so from a distance so as not to distract the lesson.
Snow Tubing
What is our refund policy?
Refund requests made more than 7 days prior to your scheduled activity date are subject to an administration fee of 15% of the order total.
Refund requests made 1-6 days prior to your scheduled activity date are subject to an administration fee of 30% of the order total.
No refunds or change requests will be issued on the day of your scheduled activity.
How do I stay safe while tubing?
WARNING: THERE IS AN ELEMENT OF RISK IN SNOW TUBING
Download our Snow Tubing Safety Guidelines file to learn more!
Are tube rides sold by the ride or by the hour?
Weekend and Night tickets are sold in 2-hour blocks. Arrive at your scheduled arrival time to maximize your time on the slopes! Midweek Unlimited 9 AM -3 PM Tickets are valid from your arrival time until 3 PM.
Please visit Snow Tubing Rates for a complete breakdown of ticketing options. Tickets must be purchased online before arrival; there are no onsite ticket sales.
Do I need a ticket to watch my family tube?
Yes, everybody that wants to enter the facility to watch or participate are required to have a ticket.
Do you have a family pass?
No, we do not offer a family pass. Everybody must purchase their own ticket if they wish to participate or spectate.
How long does it take to do a ride?
Wait times vary depending on the volume of visitors in the park and weather conditions.
Typically, wait times may range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the time of week and the number of guests visiting our facility.
How many people sit in a tube?
Everyone sits in an individual tube and may join groups at the top of the hill. The number of individuals grouped together will vary based on a number of factors, including (but not limited to) chute conditions, weather conditions, and participants’ weight.
Do kids under 42” still get to tube?
Absolutely! Guests under 42” may purchase a “Kidz Zone” ticket to tube on a smaller hill with no lift access, accompanied by an adult.
Are helmets mandatory? Can we bring our own helmets?
Helmets are not mandatory for tube riding, but we recommend that all participants wear approved snow sport helmets, and guests are welcome to bring their own.
How do we get up the hill?
The tube park has three lifts that pull our guests up the hill while seated in the tube. Our attendants will load you onto the lift, detach you from the lift as well as assist you and/or your group in descending down the hill.
Snowshoeing
What are the snowshoeing hours at Snow Valley?
Snowshoeing is available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, weather-dependent.
Please check our trail conditions report for the most up-to-date information and hours of operation.
Can I bring my dog with me while snowshoeing?
Yes, you can, but your dog must always remain leashed, and you are responsible for cleaning up after it.
What facilities are available after snowshoeing?
You can warm up by a bonfire and enjoy warm beverages and donuts from the Snow Nut Hut or the cafeteria at the tube chalet.
What kind of trails does Snow Valley offer for snowshoeing?
Snow Valley has 17km of trails, including easily accessible trails for beginners and more challenging trails for the adventurous. There’s also a 1.6 km long
interpretive trail through different types of forests with educational posts about the local ecosystem.
How much does it cost to rent snowshoes and get a trail pass?
Please visit our snowshoeing rates page for our current pricing.
What should I wear for snowshoeing?
Dress in layers suitable for winter weather, including waterproof outerwear, thermal underwear, warm socks, gloves, and a hat to ensure comfort during your adventure.
Do I need to have previous experience to snowshoe at Snow Valley?
Snow Valley offers trails for beginners and more adventurous snowshoers, making it accessible for everyone regardless of experience.
Do I need to book snowshoeing in advance?
While not always required, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure availability.
Can I purchase a season pass for snowshoeing?
We currently do not offer a season pass for snowshoeing.
Are there guided snowshoe tours available?
Our interpretive trail offers a self-guided experience. We offer several different snowshoe experiences throughout the season, such as our Torchlit Self-Guided Hike and our Guided Snowshoe and Locally Inspired Cookout.
Discovery Day Camp for Kids
How do I register my child for camp?
Signing up your child for camp is a two-step process.
STEP 1: In step one, you will purchase your selected camper’s age group and week(s) of camp in our e-store. To make the purchase, you will need to have or create an account and add your camper to your profile. Payment is taken via credit card.
STEP 2: Approximately 2 weeks before the start of camp, you will be emailed step two – a link to our Camper Registration Wellness Form. This form will collect all the need-to-know details about your camper – emergency contact, pick-up authorization, allergies, medications and overall health and wellness.
My child is registered, but I need to make a change. What do I do ?
Please note that our refund policy allows for changes at no fee within 24 hours of purchase. Learn more about summer day camp refund policy.
What is the camper-to-staff ratio?
Explorers: Ages 4-7 | 8:1
Adventurers: Ages 8-12 | 10:1
What does my child need to bring to camp daily?
To ensure your camper has the best experience possible at camp, please pack the following items in a lightweight and supportive backpack for easy transfer. Please remember to label all items and to leave valuables at home!
We have added a document that you can download below that includes a list of recommended items.
What are the hours of Discovery Camp?
Day Camp Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM each day.
Drop-off: begins at 8:45 AM
Pick-up: 4:30 PM.
What is the day-to-day camp schedule?
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Camper Sign-in & Indoor Guided Activities
9:30 AM– 10:30 AM: Outdoor Active Play (theme-based)
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: SNACK BREAK
11:00 AM– 12:00 PM: Outdoor Team Building Games
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: LUNCH BREAK
1:00 PM– 2:30 PM: Outdoor Active Play
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: SNACK BREAK
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Group Activities (theme-based)
4:30 PM: Camper Sign-Out
What should my child leave at home?
We ask that all valuables be left at home, including:
Valuables: wallets, jewellery, etc.
Electronic Devices: cell phones, gaming devices, etc.
Clothing or items not suitable for camp: Items that you do not want to get dirty.
What if my child takes prescription medication?
All camp counsellors are certified in first aid and CPR. However, Discovery Camp counsellors DO NOT administer medications (unless it is an emergency, such as using an EpiPen – please see our accompanying anaphylaxis policy). If your child needs medication throughout the day, please arrange for a parent or a designated person to come and do so. Also, please ensure this information is communicated clearly on the application form when enrolling your child.
Can a friend or alternate family member pick up my child?
When completing the Camper Registration Form, we ask that you identify your Parent/Guardian and Emergency Contact information. Any other authorized pick-up personnel can also be listed with contact information and relation. All pick-up personnel will require photo ID to ensure the safety of all camp participants.
What are the weekly themes for camp this year?
See our fun and exciting theme weeks.
Do you have a Parent & Camper Handbook?
We have added a document that you can download.
Employment
What is the recruitment process?
Our recruitment process can vary slightly depending on the position you have applied for.
In general, we begin by receiving your application through our website. We then review all applications, looking for candidates who will be best suited for each position. If we would like to pursue your application, you will be contacted via email to set up an interview.
We would love to contact all candidates, but as we receive a high volume of applications, we are only able to contact those who we would like to interview.
Why work at Snow Valley Barrie?
Snow Valley is an awesome place to work, and we are known for our Great Family Fun!
From the variety of positions offered to our amazing Staff Benefits: Employees receive a FREE Season Pass, can sign in one guest for FREE (Mon to Friday), 50% off most Food and Beverage products, Free Discover Lessons, Free Rentals. And a GREAT place to enjoy the winter with new Friends.
What does Snow Valley Barrie look for in an ideal application?
We are looking for people who want to show our guests “GREAT FAMILY FUN”, are team players and are looking for a great winter resort experience.
You will fit in perfectly if you are energetic, positive, and have a passion to share your love for our activities.
How soon will I be contacted after applying?
We will do our best to get back to you within 2-weeks if you have been selected for an interview. During the busy period leading up to our Winter Season, this process may be a bit slower, and we appreciate your patience in working with us around this.
Please ensure you keep an eye on your inbox. We contact mainly by email to set up interviews. If you are contacted please take the time to read the email carefully and respond to it if required.
When do I need to be available for work?
As a snow resort, we are reliant on Mother Nature and don’t always know for certain when we will be open for the season however, Snow Valley’s Winter Season typically opens by early to mid-December.
You may need to be available a few days in November for training. Our season usually ends at the end of March but could end as early as the end of March Break, weather dependent.
I’m happy to do any kind of job, what should I apply for?
Make sure to read through all the job descriptions and see which interests you most and which you may have experience in. If you still aren’t sure, ask yourself these questions?
Are you happy to work outside in the cold weather? Check out the Snow School, Lift Operations, Tubing and Snowmaking opportunities if YES. If NO, you’ll want to look at Guest Services, Food and Beverage, and Information Services opportunities.
Are you comfortable standing for long periods of time doing repetitive work?
Would you enjoy being in a guest-facing position or behind the scenes more?
How do I apply for a job at Snow Valley Barrie?
Snow Valley uses an online centralized recruitment system that requires all applicants to complete an application where you will also be asked to submit your resume.
To be considered for a role with us, you will need to go through this application process.
What documentation will I need to provide?
If you are successful in your application to work with us at Snow Valley you will be required to provide the following before starting work:
Social Insurance Number, Direct Deposit Details (the employee must be the owner of the account), position-specific documents as required (i.e.: Smart Serve, Instructor Certification numbers, Drivers Licence etc.).
Do you have staff accommodations?
No, Snow Valley does not have any staff housing available.
Is there public transportation to Snow Valley?
No, there is no public transportation to Snow Valley or nearby. If hired, you will be responsible for getting yourself to and from the resort.
How old do you have to be to work at Snow Valley?
The minimum age for working in Ontario is 14 years for most types of work. You must be 14 years old by your start date to work in most departments at Snow Valley.
Food and Beverage employees must be at least age 15 by employment start date.
Catering & Events
Can we decorate the venue the day before?
Absolutely! We welcome event organizers to set up the venue the day before your big day. However, this is subject to availability, considering other events taking place at Snow Valley.
Can we hold our wedding service on-site?
Certainly! You can host your entire wedding experience at Snow Valley, making it a seamless and memorable occasion.
Does Snow Valley hold weddings in the winter?
No. Unfortunately, we cannot hold weddings during ski & snowboard season, typically from November to the end of March.
How many people can Snow Valley accommodate?
We have facilities that can hold up to 400 people. We also have a minimum of 100 guests for weddings. This number is based on our catering options and can be flexible. Please get in touch with us for more information.
Can we view the facilities before booking?
Yes. We encourage you to visit and tour our facilities before deciding! We can also help answer any questions or concerns about planning your big day. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or to schedule a visit!
Can we hold an outdoor event with an indoor option in case of inclement weather?
Yes!
Is there a minimum number of guests to hold an event?
No, minimum numbers are based on catering options.
Are outdoor events licensed?
Yes, our large outdoor deck is AGCO-licensed.
Can we book live entertainment?
Yes. While Snow Valley doesn’t provide live entertainment options, we can set up an area for your live band, jugglers, performers, etc.
Can I do my own catering?
No. Currently we offer complete event packages. These can be flexible based on your event. Please contact us for more information.
