Beaver Valley | Craigleith | Devil’s Glen | Osler Bluff

Looking for a little more variety of when it comes to skiing, I made it my goal to check out the local private ski clubs. All of these private clubs can be found along the Niagara Escarpment. I’m fortunate enough to belong to a ski club these provides opportunities. Considering that the 2023/2024 season in Ontario was under whelming when it came to snow conditions, this was the perfect season to hill sample.

All of these private clubs are also connected by the Bruce Trail and can be found in the Blue Mountains Club and Beaver Valley Club sections. The exception is Osler, though one can connect the ski hill to the Bruce Trail via a snow shoe trail to Pretty River. It should be noted the portions of the Bruce Trail that pass through ski hills are closed or rerouted during winter.

Beaver Valley Ski Club, February 19, 2024

One of the top Ontario ski hills on my list has been Beaver Valley. I’ve known several people who’ve skied here as guests and past members.

Because the conditions were less than optimal I brought my Armada’s. Unfortunately, they did not perform in the icy steeps. None the less, I went all mountain trying each run at least once, because that’s how I roll. My favourite was the ski cross track. My next fave was the novelty of the south bowl with in and out access exclusively by chairlift. Avalanche is the steepest groom run in Ontario. I would love to do this again with my Salomon skis and no ice. The terrain park was fun too. This is very well rounded hill.

Perks of BV include a beautiful multi-level club house, with a great cafeteria and bar area. This hill really caters to families. Even on event days like Family Day, the hill wasn’t over crowded, lift lines were minimal and there was no need to dodge bunnies.

Update: Check out my hike through this area.

Devils Glen Country Club, March 23, 2024

It was a frosty sunny morning when we arrived at Devil’s Glen Country Club. Despite the warm weather, the hill had full snow coverage and even some powder. A club member mentioned that this ski hill had its own weather system. Let me tell you, after a day of skiing there, I’m in full agreement! We got all the weather – sun, snow, grey, rain and sun again.

This ski hill has some of the most challenging runs in Ontario. And lucky me, this was the the first time all season, I could ski pain free. Yes, I absolutely made the most of it. While everyone took classes I just skied my little heart out. I met up with friends for lunch and then we all went out to do runs together. I definitely will return to ski this hill again.

This hill is situated in what I would describe as a bend in the escarpment. Views include farm land and adorable chalets nestled into the escarpment directly across from the ski area. It gives a very cozy vibe. However, hiking up that other side of the mountain in the summer is less than quaint. This was where I stubbed my big toe really hard 3 times in a row when doing the entire Blue Mountain Club section of the BT over two days.

This multi-level lodge is one of my favourites of the private clubs. I loved all the ski and snowboard themed touches.

Craigleith Ski Club, January 23, 2024

Craigleith can be found at the North end of the Blue Mountains Club and beginning of the Beaver Valley Club section of the Bruce Trail. We hiked this beautiful section in September 2023. It took me a couple ski runs to the top of the ski lift to realize why this area looked familiar to me.

But enough about reminiscing! Craigleith is a fun hill. A bunch of us spent time on “The Edge” lift, which leads to all the black diamond and double black diamond runs. After lunch we spent time on the National and Funnel lifts. Sadly, it began to rain in the afternoon, but the lodge was friendly!

One thing I loved about this lodge was the members locker area on the lower level. The lockers were so roomy and convenient.

Osler Bluff Ski Club, February 1, 2023

Osler Bluff is just south of Blue Mountain Ski Resort. I skied this hill the prior season. The snow was great the day we went here. Better still, I found a great powder run that I got first tracks on!

Despite at least 3 guest clubs visiting that day, there were no lines! The members were super friendly and welcoming.

The main lodge is super classy. It felt like arriving at nice hotel/resort. I loved spending apres by the fireplace.

Overall, this is one of my fave private clubs and I would love to return.