SAM Magazine—Edmonton, Alberta, Oct. 10, 2023—Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, founded in 1955, has transitioned to new ownership—business partners Chuck and Lara Amerongen and Derek and Anna Look. The independently owned ski area is located about 20 miles southwest of Edmonton. 

Rabbit Hill was purchased from former owner Jim Sutherland whose father, Bob, founded the area. An avid skier as well as an eye surgeon, Bob found inspiration for the resort concept while canoeing down the North Saskatchewan River. Since the early 1980s, Jim has run the business along with partner Bill Oak. 

 “We are taking the reins and are excited to build upon the enduring legacy of the Sutherland family,” said the new owners via press release. 

“As we embark on this exciting journey, Rabbit Hill remains dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences for all who visit,” added Derek Look. “The future looks bright, and we can’t wait to share it with our loyal patrons and the next generation of adventurers.”

Chuck Amerongen has served as Rabbit Hill’s corporate accountant for eight years, and Derek Look its general manager since 2018. Look has 28 years of snowsports industry experience.  

Rabbit Hill has grown from just one rope tow powered by an old milk truck to nine ski lifts and 11 runs spread across 40 skiable acres. It tallies more than 200,000 skier and snowboarder visits a year, offering a mix of runs for all ability levels, and is the largest ski and snowboard resort in the Edmonton area with more than 40 acres of skiable terrain. 

Look said plans are already in place to transform Rabbit Hill into a year-round operation, including adding additional summer activities. The resort will continue the educational partnerships it enjoys with multiple school districts and its collaborations with five non-profit ski and snowboard organizations. 

“These relationships are key to introducing a new generation to the joys of winter sports and ensuring Rabbit Hill’s long-term success,” said Look.