Clearwater Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing, Tourism BC/Dave Heath photo
The area surrounding Clearwater has an extensive 85km/52mi network of groomed cross-country ski trails, half of which are part of the Candle Mountain Trail System just north of Clearwater. Other trails – Blackwater, Stillwater, MacLeod Hill, and South Murtle – are located in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Backcountry skiing in the Trophy Mountains is also an option. Equipment rentals are available locally.
Candle Mountain Trail System
Candle Mountain Trail System’s skate and classic cross-country ski routes are just a short drive from Clearwater. Drive northeast on Highway 5 for a few minutes, turning left onto Cradle Creek Road. Continue uphill for about 3km/2mi, and turn right onto Barber Road. Ample parking space and log cabin with a woodstove marks the trailhead.
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Wells Gray Provincial Park Trails
Several cross-country ski trails are located in Wells Gray Provincial Park, approximately 40km/24.9mi along Clearwater Valley Road from Highway 5. The park’s principal trailhead is just south of Dawson Falls. Look for a warming hut and parking area.
Follow the Blackwater Trail 10km/6mi to Helmcken Falls Lodge, or the South Murtle Trail 7km/4.3mi to the King Hut. Longer trails, including a loop track, are also accessible from the Dawson Falls entry point. Groomed and track-set trails lead cross-country skiers through the park past the Majerus Homestead and King Meadow.
Backcountry Skiing
Both self-guided and professionally guided backcountry skiing opportunities are accessible from Clearwater. With an average of 10m/33ft of snowfall annually, snow packs in the surrounding alpine is usually 3m/10ft deep and more stable than in the Rocky Mountains. The terrain is a mix of alpine, sup-alpine, and glade trees.
Wells Gray Adventures is one backcountry guide company in the area. The company uses two Lodges for backcountry skiing, and one for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Guided trips range from one-on-one treks to group outings. Those new to backcountry skiing are advised to take an avalanche safety course.
Pick up trail maps for cross-country and backcountry skiing at the Clearwater Visitor Centre (at the entrance of Wells Gray Provincial Park on Yellowhead Highway 5).
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