THE provincial lockdown has halted most companies to start the new year, but at Duntroon-based ski resort Highlands Nordic, business has boomed.

The cross-country ski club has 32km of skiing, fat biking and snow-shoe trails open for members and trail pass holders as some outdoor recreational amenities are still permitted to operate during the lockdown.

The resort has implemented strict COVID-19 safety measures, including shutting down the clubhouse except for washroom use and contact tracing. The resort also cancelled their lessons, group sessions and rental shop for the duration of the lockdown.

Highlands Nordic manager Kelly Sinclair stated that they had seen a significant increase in visitors: “We opened our Pro Shop in October and have since been overwhelmed with the number of people interested in cross-country skiing. 

“We quickly realized cross-country skiing was the latest COVID trend! Just like bikes through the summer, the demand for equipment is quite high.” 

Sinclair said visitors have been happy to comply with the new restrictions in place. Even though members have been unable to access regular facilities, only four out of 1,000 people have deferred their membership to next year.

“We take contact tracing and do active screening for everyone that comes onto the property. The building is only open for washroom use and is limited to 10 people. A mask needs to be worn if you are within 50 metres of the building and any ski service or trackside (curbside) orders need to book a time in advance. 

“Overall, the COVID response has been very positive. We sometimes need to give gentle reminders, but everyone quickly complies when reminded. They are just happy they can get out to ski!”

Sinclair added: “It’s been exciting to share the sport we love and have people either rediscover cross-country skiing or learn something new they didn’t expect they were ever going to try. 

“We can’t wait to continue offering our services to the nordic community and see our business grow!”

For more information on Highlands Nordic and their COVID-19 rules, visit highlandsnordic.ca or via email at ski@highlandsnordic.ca.

Information on Highlands Nordic: Located on the Niagara Escarpment, Highlands Nordic hosts amazing views of Georgian Bay and bountiful nature. Enjoy 25km of ski trails and 7km of rolling snow-shoe trails. An 8,000 square-foot lodge complete with cafeteria, meeting rooms, pro-shop and rentals.