The weather conditions for this year’s ski clinic were the best we have had in years! It was a cool -15 C in the morning, but by the time we started the clinic at 1 pm it was -9 C. When you were in the sun and sheltered from the slight breeze, it was exceptionally comfortable, even during the parts when you were standing around to listen to the ski instructors.
But first, some news regarding the facilities at Morin Heights. It turns out they have made a big improvement to their ski centre on Lac Echo Rd. Until last year, they had one small building beside the trail along the aerobic corridor, plus a long trailer in the parking lot up the hill on the other side of the road. During the summer, the city of Morin Heights bought an existing two-storey building and has made it the principal chalet d’accueil. The Chalet Bellevue is just 100 metres 
south of the aerobic corridor on Bellevue Road, but it is tucked behind some trees so it is likely you have never noticed it. It’s a large building that was originally a hotel and more recently a senior citizen’s residence. It has a large common area with lots of table and chairs. They have plans to add a waxing room, lockers, and even showers. It will also act as a base for mountain bikers. It
will definitely add to the appeal of skiing at Morin Heights!
There were five of us who arrived at 10 am for a morning ski. The Triangle trail was our first choice. It was open, but was described as being slick and fast. We opted instead to do an out-and-back on the Aerobic corridor. It’s a gentle uphill most of the way north. (It’s an old train line, so it can’t be too steep!) But that does make for a faster return trip. On the way back, we passed a few other members who arrived later and went out for a shorter pre-clinic ski.
We gathered in the Chalet Bellevue at 12:30 pm and Glenn Kyte, our ski clinic organizer, took attendance. We then walked over to the parking lot at the top of the hill. It’s where we used to meet in the large trailer, but now there is only a small trailer that acts as a secondary ticket booth. Our four instructors this year were Rick, Gary, Anne and Arnie. We split up into our groups (beginner, intermediate, advanced and skating) and started our lessons at 1 pm.
As I mentioned as the outset, the conditions were ideal for a ski lesson. Each of the four groups did a number of different exercises and drills during the next 1.5 hours. It was entirely pleasant! Afterward, someone of us met back in the Chalet Bellevue and chatted. Everyone reported having a great afternoon of improving their skiing abilities.
Many thanks to Glenn for once again organizing a successful and well-appreciated ski clinic! He went up to Morin Heights and coordinated the groups even though he could not ski himself due to an early season injury.