Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-Country skiing (Dave Heath photo)
Cross-country skiing near Anahim Lake is characterized by kilometres/miles of groomed trails, unused roadways, countless frozen lakes, and expansive grasslands.
The area also hosts two cross-country ski competitions: the Tweedsmuir Ski Club Annual Race and the Tatla Lake Annual Ski Challenge.
Groomed trails
The Tweedsmuir Ski Club maintains 14km/8.7mi of trails in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park, 4km/2.5mi east of Heckman Pass (known locally as "the Hill"). By mid-December, when cold temperatures set in, the club adds a 12km/7.5mi loop trail on nearby lakes and rivers. Ample parking is available at the top of the Hill, where a sign indicates the beginning of a hiking trail.
Tatla Lake volunteers maintain 30km/18mi of groomed and signed trails near Tatla Lake, a one-hour drive east of Anahim Lake. Watch for trailhead signs 1.5km/1mi off the highway on Graham road.
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Ungroomed Trails
Itcha IIgachuz Provincial Park, north of Anahim Lake, has unlimited terrain for cross-country adventuring. Christensen Creek Trail is 12km/7.5mi north of Anahim Lake on Dean River Road. The trail is accessible by horseback or SUV. The trail starts immediately after the Christensen Creek bridge. Another ungroomed route is Blackwater Wagon Road begins near the Rodeo Grounds on Dorsey Road.
Cross-country Ski Competitions
The Tweedsmuir Ski Club hosts an annual cross-country ski race at the end of February. This family oriented event features a 7km/4mi half-track for beginners and a double loop of 24km/15mi for experienced skiers. The Tatla Lake Annual Ski Challenge includes an 11.5km/7mi loop and a 6km/3.7mi children's challenge loop.
Practical Points
- Winter temperatures are quite cold. It is best to dress in warm layers.
- Cross-country skiers should not venture into backcountry areas alone.
- Avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes are necessary in and around the mountains.
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Things To Do
Winter Activities