British Columbia has more than 50 cross-country skiing areas and countless more options in provincial and national parks.
Discover world-class trails groomed for classic and skate skiing, along with pristine ungroomed backcountry, abundant snowfall, and spectacular terrain.
Learn more about Cross-Country Skiing in BC's regions and cities:
Thompson Okanagan: World-class Nordic areas and ski resorts used by Olympians, families and beginners.
Kootenay Rockies: Ski-in/ski-out lodges with big mountain scenery and huge snowfalls.
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast: Guest ranches with endless ski terrain, plus the world’s largest cross-country skis!
Vancouver Island: A mild climate, ocean-to-alpine views and excellent facilities at Mount Washington Ski Resort.
Northern British Columbia: Remote and vast wilderness skiing with plentiful wildlife.
Vancouver Coast & Mountains: Manning Park is a cross-country destination, along the scenic Sunshine Coast.
Vancouver: Panoramic views from trails at Cypress Mountain near Vancouver.
Whistler: Nordic sites and trails that were used for the 2010 Winter Games, along with après-ski nightlife.
World-Class Cross-Country Skiing
The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games had athletes competing for gold at Whistler Olympic Park – explore the same facilities and trails used during competition. Also follow the tracks of Olympians at Silver Star Mountain Resort and Mount Washington Alpine Resort, where national Nordic teams trained prior to the Games.
Popular BC Skiing Areas
Ski amongst rugged wilderness and snow-laden forests at Strathcona Provincial Park, Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre and Bulkley Valley Nordic Centre, or stay overnight at destination lodges such as Nipika Lodge and Manning Park Resort.
Guest ranches, such as Hills Health Ranch, turn horseback riding routes into rolling cross-country trails in winter. Most major trail networks have day lodges and warming huts, while night skiing and activities like dog-sledding and snowshoeing are often available.
Cross-Country Skiing at Ski Resorts
Ten of BC’s 13 major ski resorts offer cross-country skiing trails – and easy access to great amenities. Explore groomed tracks for all skill levels, and enjoy restaurants, accommodations, and activities (like downhill skiing). Find trails skied by world-class athletes at Silver Star, Mount Washington and the Callaghan Valley (near Whistler), while Panorama and Kicking Horse offer extensive trail networks with scenic views.
Practical Points
- Cross-country ski season can begin as early as November and as late as April.
- Trail user fees are common for groomed trail networks. Check with Visitor Centres and local ski clubs for trail maps and information.
- Tours, lessons and equipment rentals are available at many of the larger cross-country ski areas and at some lodges.
- Access to routes may require four-wheel drive and tire chains.
- Be familiar with local weather forecasts and always bring proper equipment. More safety information can be found on the backcountry skiing page.
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