In 1964, Bert learned of an opportunity to secure fill removed for the construction of the Spadina Expressway. The fill was essentially free and created yet another source of revenue – this time during the winter months.
An aerial shot showing the fill after delivery in 1964:
Photos from the top of the hill after fill was delivered (in foreground):
After the fill was in place. Winter 1964:
An aerial photo from 1966 showing the ski lift:
In 1965, a ski lift was added and operations began. The tow motor was housed in a building (below) that was later was used as the Photography Hut.
Here is a video from 1965 showing the first year of operation:
Thanks to Jon Fine for the original 8mm film.
In order to serve patrons, a temporary building was used as a “Pro Shop”:
Snow-making equipment was also used:
The program was run as a private “club” due to zoning regulations, but anyone could join.
Below are several items from The Toronto Star pertaining to the new Ski operations at Forest Valley:
February 26, 1965:
February 1, 1965:
A Ski Report listing conditions for Forest Valley. February 24, 1966:
Globe & Mail – November 1966:
An invitation to students to visit Forest Valley on a school holiday. February 24, 1966:
The operation of the ski hill was not popular with the local residents. Among their concerns was the noise produced by the tow motor at the base of the hill. A challenge was brought against the operation in 1966. After much wrangling, he prevailed. The situation is described in the article below.
Despite this victory, the ski operation continued to be a sore spot with the neighbours and it was stopped in the early 1967.
Thereafter, the land at the top of the hill was sold for development. Bert continued to own several lots at the top of the hill until the late 1990’s.
