Local cross country skiing non-profit Ski Pontiac is gearing up for its winter season. With a slight change in address, and with the recent dump of snow, trail preparations are underway. 

While in years past, the group has made use of two separate Norway Bay golf courses, most recently at Astra Estates, the group had to find an alternative location this year and has settled in next to Bristol Auto Performance (11 Front Road). 

Ski Pontiac President Ariane Cloutier explained that they had received an enthusiastic response from both Bristol Auto and also got some neighbouring landowners to allow for trails. 

“As soon as Riley [MacGregor] found out we were looking, he said, ‘Listen, come over to our place,’” she said. 

“So we were able to  put our equipment at Bristol Auto, he’ll be able to let people park there, then across the street we’ll have a trailhead for recreational skiing. We’re also developing trails behind Bristol Auto on that land but it will probably be snowshoeing at this point for this year.” 

She said that they were aiming to have around three to five kilometres of trail this year, with the possibility of expansion in time. The opening of the trails depends on conditions and will be posted on the group’s social media. 

Bristol Auto’s Riley MacGregor enthused in a Facebook video about the partnership. 

“We’re hoping that this is the new home for Ski Pontiac, and we’re going to make it home for you guys as well,” he said. “We have some beautiful property here, we have loads of wildlife, it’s just an epic adventure, guys. This is such a beautiful spot and we’re so humbled to have you guys share it with us.”