Fort St. James Ski Club directory

Overview
The Ft. St. James Ski Club is the volunteer, non-profit organization responsible for owning and operating Murray Ridge Ski Area & Terrain Park, located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Established in 1984, the club was formed to oversee the operation of the community-built ski hill and has continued to preserve Murray Ridge as a locally managed, community-focused outdoor recreation destination. The organization is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which hires professional management and works alongside staff and volunteers to maintain affordable access to alpine skiing, snowboarding, and year-round recreation opportunities. The club's mission is to provide high-quality, affordable alpine recreation in a safe, welcoming environment while preserving one of northern British Columbia's most valued community assets.

Stewardship & Operations
The Ft. St. James Ski Club is responsible for the planning, operation and long-term stewardship of Murray Ridge Ski Area. Its responsibilities include lift operations, grooming, terrain park management, ski patrol, guest services, equipment rentals, food services, special events, volunteer coordination and capital improvements. The organization relies heavily on community volunteers, local businesses and sponsors, whose support has enabled Murray Ridge to remain an independent, community-operated ski area for more than four decades. Unlike corporate resorts, decisions are made locally with the goal of serving residents, schools, families and visitors while ensuring the hill remains financially sustainable.

Recreation Opportunities
While best known for alpine skiing and snowboarding, the organization supports a broad range of winter recreation including terrain park riding, ski and snowboard instruction, youth development programs, school outings, racing events and seasonal community celebrations. Throughout the season, Murray Ridge hosts competitions, family events, fundraising activities and volunteer work parties that strengthen community involvement and encourage participation in outdoor recreation.

Community Involvement
Community participation has been central to Murray Ridge since the ski area's construction in the late 1970s. The Ft. St. James Ski Club continues this tradition by encouraging volunteers to assist with trail clearing, maintenance projects, fundraising, event organization and governance. The volunteer Board represents a diverse cross-section of the Fort St. James community and remains committed to ensuring future generations have access to affordable mountain recreation.

Volunteers & Membership
The club welcomes new volunteers and community members interested in supporting Murray Ridge. Opportunities range from assisting with maintenance days and special events to serving on committees or the Board of Directors. Community involvement remains one of the organization's greatest strengths and is essential to the continued success of the ski area.