Early Days (1960s)
In the mid-1960s, skiing at Hudson Bay Mountain meant earning every turn. Skiers parked at the base, strapped skins to their skis, and hiked nearly two hours to reach the open slopes. Everything needed for the day, fuel, food, and even the tow motor, was hauled up by hand. About two dozen skiers would gather, paying a dollar to ride a short rope tow and ski until sunset.

​

Road Access & First Lifts
By 1969, community support helped fund a road into the ski area, opening the door for growth. Cabins were built, parking was expanded, and the Ski Club purchased its first portable lift, a “baby teleski.” Powered by a Volkswagen engine, the lift used cables and movable towers, allowing skiers to pull themselves uphill using detachable T-handles.

​

Growing Popularity
As interest grew, ticket prices rose modestly and lift lines grew longer. A second teleski was added in the early 1970s, bringing more visitors from surrounding communities like Terrace and Kitimat. Hudson Bay Mountain was quickly becoming a regional destination.

​

A New Era of Lifts
In 1975, the Panorama T-Bar opened, followed by the Prairie T-Bar in 1978 to meet increasing demand. By the late 1970s, it was clear the mountain needed a chairlift. In partnership with the Town of Smithers, the Smithers Ski Corporation was formed, and in 1980 the triple chairlift—now known as the Skyline Chair, officially ushered Hudson Bay Mountain into a new era.