Ontario’s freestyle ski and snowboard community is gearing up for a major boost this spring as Horseshoe Resort prepares to unveil a new year‑round big air and progression facility, featuring a downslope airbag and two JF Dry Ski–surfaced ramps. The project, supported by Freestyle Ontario and Ontario Snowboard, is being hailed as a transformative step for athlete development in the province.

The facility combines a purpose‑built scaffolding structure, a run-in covered with more than 2,000 square metres of JF Dryski slope surface, including on the 35‑foot and 45‑foot jumps, and a full downslope airbag designed for safe, repeatable training. While not a traditional bristle dry slope, the JF Dry Ski matting on the in‑run ramps allows athletes to train outside the winter season, bridging the gap between snow years and accelerating progression.

The project team confirmed that the official launch planned for Spring 2026 following successful test runs in late 2025.

“After years of planning and months of absolute grinding all spring, summer and fall, getting to our first official test run was huge,” said the project director. “To say we’re stoked wouldn’t even cover it. Ontario legends Trevor Niblett and Joseph Pellegrini stepped up as our test pilots, and it’s safe to say we’re ready to level up freestyle here in Ontario.”

The facility will be the first downslope airbag setup of its kind in the province, offering a critical training environment for slopestyle, big air, and freestyle athletes aiming for national and international competition, including future Olympic pathways.

Throughout 2025, the project relied heavily on volunteer support, with Freestyle Ontario and Ontario Snowboard members assisting in beam installation, decking, and preparation for the top‑tower build. Once the scaffolding was completed, work began on shaping the kickers and finalising the airbag systems ahead of winter hibernation.

The team says the final months before opening will focus on fine‑tuning the ramps and preparing the site for full‑time operation once the snow melts.

“We’ll be ready to absolutely rock in a few short months,” the project director added. “This facility is built for Ontario athletes — for progression, for safety, and for the next generation of champions.”