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Calabogie"s 18 trails and two new quads are only part of the story at this small peak in the Ottawa Valley, about one hour from the national capitol. A resort expansion plan aims to take Calabogie to four-season status, to take full advantage of the area"s recreational opportunities. A good deal has already been done, and there"s a new conference center and resort hotel at the base, various lodging options (with more on the way), and a nine-hole executive golf course. But fans of winter will be most interested in the 760 feet of vertical and the 18 trails for all abilities, plus the two quads (and a surface lift) that get them to the goods. The trails rise directly from the flat plain surrounding Calabogie Lake. At the base you"ll find clusters of buildings (there are more nestled in the woods by the lake"s shore), which currently consist of the main base facilities and lodge, the resort center and hotel, villas, village homes, and new construction; and a common area. The base lodge complex includes a cafeteria, bar, rental and retail shop, and guest services. Architecturally, the theme is cohesive and the natural setting is beautiful. Visitors can take advantage of the setting in a number of ways, not least of which are the alpine trails and terrain park. But there"s a network of single-track cross-country ski trails, too, which start nearby, snowshoe trails, and snowmobile trails. A couple of kilometers down the road is Eagle"s Nest Escarpment, a popular ice-climbing spot (it"s a five-minute hike in from the road). Dining options range from the Village Bistro in Calabogie (the actual town, close by) to The Duck Restaurant (reservations required) in Calabogie Lodge; there are several other interesting choices. There are at least eight galleries within a thirty-minute drive, as well as specialty shops and more conventional stores. The gastronomic and cultural possibilities (not to mention the shopping) expand considerably if you factor in Ottawa, about an hour away.
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Ski Report
Ontario
