World Cup infrastructure work will improve snow conditions on the Flying Mile trail

Hello, Tremblant ski enthusiasts! Today, we are sharing with you the latest news regarding the infrastructure work being done in preparation for the Tremblant FIS Women’s Alpine Ski World Cup, which will take place on December 2nd and 3rd, 2023.

We are thrilled to announce that the ongoing work is aimed at improving the snow coverage from top to bottom on the Flying Mile slope, including the Johannsen section, with the goal of providing optimal conditions for the competition. Fundamentally, the snowmaking capacity on the whole length of the trail will be doubled compared to the existing network.

A major operation

As part of these efforts, we have replaced the 12-inch water and 10-inch air main pipes on the Johannsen pitch which connect with the existing pipelines on the Beauvallon Bas trail. We have also installed new conduits with fibre-optic cables for media telecommunications and timing infrastructure as per FIS standards. Another significant part of the work involves the installation of bases for 6 new double snowmaking guns on the Johannsen slope, along with 12 permanent cannons.

Additionally, the upper and mid-Flying mile sections will see 2 new lines installed so to enable the snowmaking team blow-in snow from both sides of the trail. With the new pipeline connections and cannons on both sides, we will be able to snow cover the Flying Mile much earlier in the season and in a more efficient manner in terms of water and energy. In total, Tremblant has installed 79 new cannons on 30’ masts for better reach and hang time.

An Important Investment

While the cannons on the Flying Mile slope are already efficient, the new installations will be identical to the state-of-the-art cannons we have in the Bière-en-Bas Algonquin, and P’tit Bonheur trails. This investment will also enable snowmaking at warmer temperatures and increased coverage.

Now, let’s talk numbers. The total cost of the work amounts to CAD 2,777,428. All of these additional investments by Tremblant and Alterra Mountain Company support the continuous improvements of our mountain infrastructures for major events and our skiing guests.

An Impact on Buildings

As part of the ongoing preparations, we regret to inform you that the Flying Mile Hut will be dismantled. The removal of a building that has been part of our history was a difficult decision to make, and we are fully aware of it. Unfortunately, after carefully considering various options, this was the necessary to create the required space for the starting platform and various temporary structures needed to meet the standards of the FIS and Alpine Canada organizing committees.

A new building at the summit, located just North of the Flying Mile chairlift terminal, will house the new main valve and distribution network for the local snowmaking systems in an underground bunker. On the main floor, will see a satellite office for the Tremblant Ski Patrol to ensure rapid deployment during the race event and additional support during regular winter operations.

A durable project

Since respect for the environment and sustainable development are important values for Tremblant, we will finish with the seeding of plant species capable of retaining the soil and limiting erosion, as with every major project carried out on the mountain.

Good news for hiking enthusiasts! The hiking trails, including the Grand Brûlé trail, will remain accessible during the work. We invite you to visit tremblant.ca to stay updated on trail conditions.

A strong community

Regarding the partners involved in the work, we would like to highlight the involvement of the Tremblant Planning and Development team, the general contractors, and the snowmaking team, as well as the International Ski Federation (FIS) and Alpine Canada.

While we can’t wait to welcome athletes to our upgraded slopes during the Tremblant World Cup, we can’t wait to experience this monumental event with our wonderful community of passionate skiers! We hope to see you in large numbers come and encourage the best female skiers in the world.