THUNDER BAY – After the process of installation and inspection, the chairlift at Mount Baldy is finally up and running.
Daniel Kardas, co-owner of Mount Baldy Ski Area says that the excitement and relief felt by everyone involved over the “long haul” of the project was infectious.
“And to have that news come in on Friday at 4:45, the excitement around Mount Baldy was just insane, and knowing that we had to have it happen the next day, we pushed it back a little bit to give us a little bit of time,” he said.
“They're coming, the crowds, and the drones and the parking lots are packed, and DJs are spinning and everyone's having a blast. And nothing but good vibes out at Mount Baldy. It's amazing.”
Kardas says that the support from the community has been unbelievable.
“The most insane thing for me, I mean, everyone knows I've been busting my butt for a long time with my brother and the rest of the crew that's been helping out here at Mount Baldy,” he said.
“And my staff, I give them all the credit in the world and not only that, I mean when it comes down to everyone here in Thunder Bay to support us, you know, to go through this long process of building a ski lift from telling them 3 1/2 years ago that we're going to do this, and now they finally get to enjoy it.”
Kardas says that what has really kept him going over the long project is the memory of his father.
“Unfortunately, he passed away two seasons ago and this ski lift is going to be named after my dad: the Stanislav Express, so this is what's kept me going,” he said.
“My dad's a strong guy and he made me do what I did and it's very emotional, but this is for him, and he sees me, and I see the Eagles fly up around the sky and he's looking down and he's proud of me.”
To find out more about the ski hill, prices, and hours of operation, visit its website.
