Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
White Hills Resort, eastern Newfoundland's winter destination, is now owned by the
Town of Clarenville. However, it is operated as a Not For Profit Corporation by an independent board as
Alpine Development Alliance Corporation which does not receive operating subsidies from either the municipal or provincial governments. Since taking over the operation ADAC has worked steadily to enhance the skiing/boarding experience for its' clients. This has been done by increasing skiing terrain, purchase of a new groomer, complete replacement of the ski/snowboard rental fleet, building improvements, upgrading of snowmaking system and many other smaller initiatives. Many challenges and improvements, including a new lift for the beginners area, remain and we will work diligently as funds allow to tackle these. The following FAQs should answer most of the common questions our clients have. If your question is not answered please use the "
contact us" section on our web site or call. Also please check the web site for current updates on operational information.
When does White Hills open?
Our opening date is weather dependent but we target for the earliest possible date after Boxing Day.
When does WH close?
The schedule closing is the first weekend in April.
What days are WH open?
The resort is always open Friday to Sunday once the season starts. However, when school group bookings begin we open as many days a week as necessary to accommodate demand. In February and March this can be up to 7 days a week. Please check the web site, or call the resort, for open days each week. Cancellation of groups due to weather may cause closure at any time.
Why aren't you open every day of the season?
Because we do not receive operating subsidies, and to ensure financial survival, we can operate only on days when operating expenses are covered.
There's 30 cm of snow on my lawn, why isn't WH open?
Our terrain is extremely rugged. 30 cms of snow compresses to about 5 cms if groomed, inadequate to allow safe skiing/boarding. Approximately 100 cms of snow is needed to allow safe skiing under ungroomed conditions. For grooming even larger depths are needed. We typically need from 60 to 300 cms of dense manmade snow on the runs to allow satisfactory grooming, and to ensure an operating season. We allow skiers/boarders on all runs when snow volume provides safe conditions, even ungroomed terrain. We are as eager as you to get operational as early as possible.
Why isn't snowmaking started earlier?
Snowmaking efficiency depends on a combination of air temperature and humidity. The colder and drier it is the more effective and efficient snowmaking , with a better quality of snow. Typically it should be -5c or colder to allow snowmaking but if the humidity is high it is not effective, even with the snow crystal enhancing agent we use. Our snowmaking operation is as aggressive as mother nature allows.
Do you groom all the runs?
No. A significant segment of our clients look for, and enjoy, the experience found on ungroomed terrain. We feel it is one of the things that makes WH such a fun place to spend a day. We groom about 50 % of the skiable terrain regularly.
What are the hours of operation?
Lifts operate from 9 am to 4 pm with staff on site from 8 am.
Does WH have night skiing?
Not on a regular basis. Night skiing may be offered as a special event. This will be promoted on our web site.
What does it cost to ski/board at WH?
White Hills has one of the cheapest rates anywhere in Canada. Our rates are published on the website and can be found under the "rates" section. If you plan to make a number of trips each winter buying a season's pass will significantly improve your skiing value?
Does WH have a family pass?
No. Because our season pass rates are so cost effective we cannot further discount them.
Can I rent skis/snowboard equipment at WH?
Yes. Our rental shop has a complement of modern skis/snowboards and boots for rent at reasonable rates. If you plan to rent we advise coming early as we do rent out all our equipment on many days throughout the season.
Can I get ski/snowboard instruction at WH?
Yes. We have a staff of ski/snowboard instructors with CSIA certification available to provide instruction. A number of options exist for instruction as shown under the "rates" section.
Can I get food and drinks at the resort?
Yes. We operate a full food and beverage service in our spacious day lodge.
Can I consume my own food/ beverages in the lodge?
There is no restriction on food consumption in the lodge. However, due to legislation you cannot consume alcoholic beverages not purchased in our lounge on the premises/resort.