Golden (BC), Canada –Calgary, Alberta-based, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, owners of five of ski resorts across Canada including Fernie and Mont-Sainte-Anne, have entered into discussions to potentially acquire Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden, British Columbia. Subject to certain regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

“Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is currently in the 11th year of operations and has quickly established itself as one of the premier destination resort brands in the North American ski market. The possible inclusion of the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort brand within the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies family is a strong, strategic fit and establishes a great platform for the future of the resort, ” notes Kicking Horse Mountain Resort President and CEO, Steve Paccagnan.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is the first four-season resort to open in the Rockies in over 25 years and is one of the only ski resorts in Canada that has had continuous growth in recent years. The resort recently obtained Provincial approval of a 40–year Master Plan which calls for an expanded controlled recreation area, 20,000 bed units, an 18-hole golf course, a multi-use trail system with two proposed lifts and 4,188 acres of skiable terrain. The 2011-12 season introduces the first phase of a softer side of the mountain including a new Learning Centre to accommodate families and beginner skiers, a new partnership with Brewster Travel Canada, WestJet Airlines, and Budget Rent A Car combined with a new booking system powered by VacationRoost.

In addition to Fernie in British Columbia and Mont-Sainte Anne in Quebec, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies Inc. also owns Nakiska Ski Area in Alberta, Kimberley Alpine Resort in British Columbia and Stoneham Mountain Resort in Quebec.