Who owns Sunshine Village, a picturesque ski resort nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains? This question has intrigued many, as the resort has become a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as one might expect.
Sunshine Village, located near Banff, Alberta, Canada, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1960s. The resort was initially developed by the Alberta government as a way to promote tourism in the region. In 1967, the government sold a majority stake in the resort to a group of investors, including the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) and the Trans-Canada Corporation. This partnership marked the beginning of the resort’s private ownership era.
Over the years, ownership of Sunshine Village has changed hands several times. In 1999, the resort was acquired by Intrawest Corporation, a leading developer and operator of ski resorts across North America. Under Intrawest’s management, the resort experienced significant growth and expansion, including the addition of new lifts and ski runs. However, in 2015, Intrawest filed for bankruptcy, leading to the sale of its assets, including Sunshine Village.
The new owner of Sunshine Village was revealed to be the Vail Resorts, one of the largest ski resort operators in the world. Vail Resorts, which already owns several high-profile resorts in North America, including Vail, Beaver Creek, and Breckenridge, saw an opportunity to expand its presence in the Canadian market. The acquisition of Sunshine Village marked the company’s entry into the Canadian ski industry, and it has since invested heavily in the resort’s infrastructure and amenities.
Despite the change in ownership, Sunshine Village has maintained its commitment to providing a top-notch ski experience for visitors. The resort continues to offer a diverse range of ski and snowboarding opportunities, catering to both beginners and advanced skiers. In addition to the slopes, the resort boasts a variety of dining options, lodging facilities, and activities for those looking to enjoy the mountain’s natural beauty year-round.
The question of who owns Sunshine Village is not just about the legal entity in charge of the resort; it is also a reflection of the resort’s evolution and the ever-changing landscape of the ski industry. As the resort continues to thrive under Vail Resorts’ ownership, it remains a symbol of the enduring appeal of the Canadian Rockies and the passion for winter sports that unites people from all corners of the globe.
