Who we are

Who We Are: Ridgeline Mountain Planners (RMP) is a trusted consulting firm specializing in resort and recreation master planning, site assessment, and stakeholder engagement. We help clients—from all-season resorts to remote backcountry operators—design world-class outdoor destinations that are economically viable, environmentally responsible, and guest-focused.

Our Philosophy: We believe that great planning and design balance economic feasibility, environmental sustainability, and cultural relevance. Our goal is to create great guest experiences that are engaging, rewarding, and fun—delivering results that enhance operations and keep visitors coming back.

Our Approach: We take an interdisciplinary approach to planning and design, looking at all the variables and integrating services such as site assessment, recreation planning, village planning, financial assessment, and public engagement. Whether working independently or collaborating with trusted partners, we tailor our services to meet each client’s unique needs.

Ridgeline Mountain Planners Experts in Resort and Backcoutry Planning and Design

Matt Bakker - Principal

I grew up in the forests and mountains of BC’s South Coast—skiing, running, and mountain biking with friends and family. Those early experiences shaped how I see the world and sparked a lifelong connection to outdoor places and the people who enjoy them.

Today, as the founder of Ridgeline Mountain Planners, I help resorts, operators, and communities plan and design fun, engaging, and sustainable recreation and resort destinations. With experience in resort master planning, trail network development, and stakeholder engagement from projects across North America, I bring both technical expertise and a love of the outdoors to every project. My background in planning, GIS analysis, policy review, site assessment, and project management keeps my work grounded in operational realities and project feasibility, while my time on the trails helps me understand what motivates guests and makes an experience truly memorable.

I believe outdoor recreation is one of the most powerful ways we connect—with nature, with others, and with ourselves. That belief drives me to help more people get outside, have fun, and feel inspired by the places they visit.

Matt Bakker Expert in Resort and Backcountry Planning and Design

  • Before launching Ridgeline Mountain Planners, I served as a resort planner and project manager at Brent Harley & Associates (BHA) on projects across Canada and abroad. Some of these projects include:

    • Lake Louise Ski Area Long Range Plan

    • Big White Ski Resort Master Plan

    • Bridal Veil Mountain Resort Expression of Interest

    • Zincton Expression of Interest & Formal Proposal

    • Castle Mountain Resort Master Plan

    • Mike Wiegele Heliskiing Management Plan

    • Mt Norquay Gondola Master Plan

    • Kinosoo Ridge Ski Resort Master Plan

    • Caledon Ski Club Master Plan

    • Manning Park Ski Resort Ski Resort Development Plan

    See the Portfolio Page for the projects we’re working on now!

    • Masters in Resource and Environmental Management (Planning) – 2017

    • Bachelors in Human Geography (with Distinction) – 2013

    • Certificate in Sustainable Community Development – 2013

    • Certificate in Spatial Information Systems – 2013


    • Planning Institute of British Columbia (Candidate Member) – 2024

    • International Association of Public Participation: Certificate in Public Participation – 2024

    • Indigenous Corporate Training Inc: Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples – 2023

Our Partners

Ridgeline Mountain Planners has formed strategic partnerships with other industry leaders to offer all the services our clients need in one integrated team

Lupa Stewardship

Lupa Stewardship delivers expert consulting in environmental & project management, regulatory approvals, and Indigenous engagement, helping industry, government, and communities align sustainable development with shared decision-making and governance goals.

Orca Projects

Orca Projects delivers advanced geomatics and geospatial analysis and data collection in support of resort, recreation, survey, and construction projects. Over a decade of industry experience, expertise in the ESRI software suite, and advanced drone data collection capabilities enable Orca Projects to deliver the data needed when needed.

Contact us

Are you looking to develop, expand, or refine your outdoor recreation project? Get in touch!