Collingwood (ON), Canada – Ontario’s largest ski resort is about to get even bigger. Blue Mountain is investing C$10 million to expand its ski and snowboard terrain and add new trails for winter 2013-14.

The expansion includes an additional 64 acres of ski and snowboard terrain, a new high-speed six-person chairlift and six new trails. Snowmaking infrastructure and night lighting will be installed on three of the six trails.

The expansion is slated for the existing Orchard area on the south end of the resort and will increase Blue Mountain’s skiable terrain to 364 total acres across 42 trails – the most in Ontario.

“This is one of the most significant investments in the resort’s 73-year history and the largest expansion of a ski resort in Ontario in recent memory,” said Dan Skelton, President and Chief Operating Officer of Blue Mountain Resort. “Skiing and snowboarding is alive and well in Ontario, and our investment of more than $10 million demonstrates our ongoing commitment to our guests, employees and regional partners.  We continue to build towards our goal of being among Canada’s premier resort destinations, offering a unique pedestrian village, luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art conference facilities, year-round attractions and the best skiing and snowboarding in the province.”

The increased terrain provided by the Orchard expansion is equivalent to adding 21 percent of the resort’s current terrain. The Orchard will have a diverse selection of trails and terrain for all skier and snowboarder levels. The expansion will introduce a new 1.6 km trail that will be the longest beginner trail in Ontario, and addresses volume and demand on existing runs. Blue Mountain will begin building and installing infrastructure this spring, and expects to open the new terrain early in the 2013-14 winter season.

“More trails and improved skiing and snowboarding facilities enhance the visitor experience and give Ontario families more reasons to travel in our province,” said Michael Chan, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “I’d like to congratulate Blue Mountain on their expansion and their commitment to helping strengthen Ontario’s snow and tourism industries.”