From snowmobiling to skiing, from beautiful chalets to cozy cabin retreats, the winter tourism industry is an important economic driver for many communities throughout Atlantic Canada. The Government of Canada, together with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, is investing in non-profit organizations to help improve winter experiences for residents and tourists within the Clarenville region.

“Skiing and snowmobiling are two of the best ways to get out and enjoy winter here in Newfoundland and Labrador, and there’s lots of it to be done in Clarenville. Today’s investments will help more people get out and discover our province’s landscapes and recreational opportunities, while supporting our local businesses and our communities.”

-        The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Winter tourism is a key economic driver that contributes to strong, healthy communities. This investment will help grow the region’s reputation as a destination of choice for activities like snowmobiling and skiing, and encourage more visitors to come and explore this beautiful part of Newfoundland and Labrador.”

-        Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity

“The White Hills Ski Resort and the Clarenville Nordic Ski Club are two great social enterprises that provide multiple spinoffs for local hotels, restaurants and shops. We are proud to assist in these infrastructure upgrades which will increase efficiency, enhance the visitor experience and promote sustainability for both operations.”

      -    The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology  

“The winter of 2023-24 marks an exciting turning point for White Hills Resort and the future of snow sports in Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador. Working with the Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, has allowed us to complete vital maintenance and focus energy on business and environmental sustainability. Our guests will immediately notice a difference when they visit, with the team currently working on a number of important projects from resort base to the summit.”
      -     Jeff Howard, Chair, Alpine Development Alliance Corporation

“This investment by ACOA and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador has enabled us to put the finishing touch on the beautiful Cormack Loop multi-use trail. The loop is now a positive recreational space for tourists and residents. It's a safe place to enjoy on UTV, ATV, snowmobile, hike, run, or ride a bicycle to keep fit and clear your mind. The loop is an economic generator to the region bringing tourists from all over the province to explore boil-up spots, amazing trails, rest areas, and Secret Falls. Discovery Trail Snowmobile Association is poised for exponential growth in the lucrative ATV/Snowmobile industry and is proud to be a pioneer of the adventure tourism recreational experience!”
       -    Peter Troke, President, Discovery Trail Snowmobile Association

“The Clarenville Nordic Ski Club is grateful to receive funding from ACOA which allows the club to provide opportunities for more people to become involved in cross country skiing and snowshoeing.  The ability to purchase more ski equipment, alternate grooming equipment, and build a gazebo will allow us to broaden and extend programs we offer. The Clarenville region is a uniquely positioned area from which to grow winter tourism. Clarenville Nordic is eager to be part of fostering this growth.”

-        Keith Barrington, President, Clarenville Nordic Ski Club Inc.

• ACOA’s investments are delivered through the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), which builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

• The Provincial Government’s investments are delivered through the Regional Development Fund, which provides support for development and implementation of economic initiatives with respect to regional and sectoral development, diversification, innovation, and key emerging sectors.

• The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) was announced in Budget 2023 as a .key component of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. In Atlantic Canada, ACOA will deliver $10.6 million over three years to businesses and organizations to help diversify local economies

Associated links

• Innovative Communities Fund (ICF)
• Tourism Growth Program (TGP)
• Alpine Development Alliance Corporation
• Discovery Trail Snowmobile Association
• Clarenville Nordic Ski Club Inc.
• The Atlantic Canada Momentum Index - Public Policy Forum

Kevin Lemkay

Director of Communications

Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Kevin.Lemkay@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Paul McGrath

Director of Communications

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

709-689-5731

Paul.Mcgrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lesley Clarke

Media Relations Manager

Industry, Energy and Technology

709-729-5777, 709-699-2910

lesleyclarke@gov.nl.ca

Marke Dickson

General Manager

White Hills Resort

709-466-4555

Marke.Dickson@whitehillsresort.com

Peter Troke

President

Discovery Trail Snowmobile Association

709-425-4963

discoverytrailsnowmobileassoc@gmail.com  


Keith Barrington

President

Clarenville Nordic Ski Club Inc.

709-425-3441

keithlbarrington@gmail.com