GLADSTONE, Mich. (WZMQ) – After a series of initial delays, the Gladstone Ski Hill at the John & Melissa Besse Sports Park is finally open for the season.
Due to the unseasonably warm weather early in the season, the opening of the hill was originally postponed until January 26. However, thanks to last week’s below-zero temperatures, crews were able to start making snow from the hill’s natural-flow pond.
With the pump house running 24/7 this week, as well as some natural snowfall, Gladstone Parks and Recreation decided to open the Ski Hill a week ahead of schedule.
“I’m pretty excited,” said acting supervisor Robert Brown. “I wish we had a little bit more snow, but my main concern is the warm weather coming in next week. Now that we have our snow, we’re going to try to keep it. That’s the next challenge that we’re facing, but hopefully it’s good enough for the kids to get out on the hill here today.
The Gladstone Ski Hill is open Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The after school program will still begin on January 26 as planned.
Click here for more information about the Gladstone Ski Hill.
