Thousands of skiers and snowboarders expected to flock to massive Calgary equipment sale

Getting thrifty in the runup to ski season Ski season is approaching and many are trying to save where they can at this weekend's new and used ski sale at Max Bell Centre.

The Calgary New and Used Ski Sale at the Max Bell Centre expects to welcome thousands of skiers and snowboarders.

"We have a wider selection than you will find anywhere else at any time in Calgary. In fact, at any time, anywhere else in Canada, this is the biggest sale in Canada," said Geoff Scotton, chair of the Calgary New and Used Ski Sale.

Those looking to find a deal will have lots to choose from, as there are thousands of pairs of skis and ski boots, plus hundreds of snowboards.

In total, inventory is approximately $2 million. Scotton emphasized there is equipment for everyone.

"They're all priced at bargain prices because people want to sell," Scotton said.

The sale has been around since 1963, with the proceeds of the sale going back into the ski industry.

"It's a fundraiser for the Calgary Ski Club, the Canadian Ski Patrol and the Lake Louise Athletic Development Association," Scotton said.

Scotton expects more than 10,000 people to attend the ski swap over the three days.

The sale runs on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

SEASON PASSES COST

Looking for a deal on new gear is one thing, but a seaso' pass at one of the area’s resorts -- that might prove costly.

"Went to go buy a season pass at Sunshine and I was just like, holy moly. Like, it's quite expensive," said Love Solo, who was standing in line.

A spokesperson for Sunshine Village told CTV News Calgary it is important to the hill to offer affordable options.

One of those options is the Sunshine Super card, priced at $99.

Season passes are similar in cost to last season, with some increasing by one to three per cent due to "rising costs."

Lake Louise Ski Resort season pass prices have increased by three per cent due to inflation and cost increases, according to a spokesperson for the hill.

The hill also has options outside of season passes, including its Plus Card for $134.

The spokesperson says the resort will most likely see an uptick in season pass sales after the first snowfall.

Meanwhile, organizers at Canada Olympic Park are excited about the season ahead, as their season pass sales are on record pace.

"Being an urban ski hill, it kind of allows people to get out, learn to ski and snowboard and not have to spend all that money to head to the mountains," said Ian Newcombe, Winsport outside operations senior manager.

The hill is ahead in its snowmaking process, planning to start next week.

OPENING DAYS

Canada Olympic Park and Nakiska Ski Area open Nov. 24.

Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village open Nov. 10.

Fernie Alpine Resort opens Dec. 2.