Campfire Stories

Welcome to Episode 1 of our Campfire Stories series! In this episode, we’re honoured to sit down with Jim Sutherland, the former owner of Rabbit Hill Snow Resort. Jim reflects on his time leading the resort, sharing stories about its growth, challenges, and the incredible community that has shaped Rabbit Hill over the past 70 years. This series celebrates the incredible people who have been part of Rabbit Hill’s journey, sharing their stories to honor the rich history of our resort.

Watch Jim’s Campfire Story

In this episode of Campfire Stories, we sit down with Doug Balzer, whose expertise in slope grooming has played a vital role in creating the perfect runs at Rabbit Hill Snow Resort. Doug shares the challenges and artistry behind grooming the slopes and how the evolution of technology has transformed the process over the years.

From late-night shifts to ensuring the hill is ready for thousands of skiers and snowboarders, Doug’s dedication has left an unforgettable mark on Rabbit Hill. Join us by the fire as we celebrate the unsung heroes who keep the slopes in top shape.

Watch Doug’s Campfire Story

Bryan Wallace, Rabbit Hill’s beloved Englishman, dedicated four decades as Lifts Manager, ensuring skiers and snowboarders made it safely to the top. His commitment is forever recognized with a chairlift named in his honor. In this campfire interview, Bryan shares stories from his years at the hill, reflecting on the friendships, challenges, and memories that shaped his time here. Now, he channels his passion into Hill of a Race, a one-of-a-kind event at Rabbit Hill that raises funds for Olive Tree Projects, a maternity center in Haiti founded by his daughter, Sarah Wallace.

Watch Bryan’s Campfire Story

In Episode 4 of Campfire Stories, Stewart Stelter shares his family’s unique connection to Rabbit Hill Snow Resort. For four generations, the Stelters have farmed the land surrounding Rabbit Hill, and in 1955, his grandfather began a lease agreement with Rabbit Hill, allowing the resort to operate on the riverbank.

Stuart reminisces about growing up on skis, working at the hill, and how Rabbit Hill became a community hub—providing jobs and creating lasting memories for generations.

Watch Stewart’s Campfire Story

In Episode 5 of Campfire Stories, John Nesbit takes us through his journey at Rabbit Hill Snow Resort. Starting as a ski patroller in 2008 and transitioning to teaching skiing in 2017, John shares his experiences on the hill, his love for snow sports, and what it’s like to inspire others on the slopes. Cozy up by the fire and enjoy another chapter of our 70th anniversary celebration!

Watch John’s Campfire Story

In this episode of Campfire Stories, we sit down with Ken, the owner and founder of Shalom Park and Spruce Valley Events. Ken shares what it’s been like to be neighbors with Rabbit Hill while building community spaces along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River. Ken recalls a few funny stories from along the way and wishes Rabbit Hill continued growth and success for the next 70 years.

Watch Ken’s Campfire Story