The 100 Mile House area (including 108 Mile Ranch and 99 Mile Ski Trails) boasts about 150km/93mi worth of groomed, cross-country ski trails. The community also has an active Nordic Ski club. In fact, this area, the South Cariboo, prides itself in being one of the best cross-country ski holiday destinations in North America.
Nordic Skiing in the South Cariboo
This region has an extensively groomed network of trails, one of the longest in Canada. To show just how seriously Nordic Skiing is taken in the Cariboo, the South Cariboo Visitor Centre located in 100 Mile House is the home to the world's largest pair of cross-country skis, along with a pair of 9m/30 ft poles, pointing skyward.
Beginner, Intermediate, Advance and Family Trails
There are two categories of groomed trails in the area. For beginner or intermediate skiers, nearby 108 Mile Ranch has groomed trails with gentle terrain perfect for the gliding style of cross-country skiing. The cross-country trails in 99 Mile include trails with a steeper terrain, technically challenging portions, tight corners and sections that are better suited to marathoners.
The 99 Mile race and marathon trails combine easy and challenging touring loops, as well as handy warming huts and toilets. There is even an Adventure Trail for parents and youngsters, which features twists and turns with special lighting effects and cartoon characters lurking behind the trees.
Practical Points
- A user fee is charged per day for both groomed trail networks at 99 Mile and 108 Mile, and includes the use of the beautiful day lodge and ice skating rink.
- Day, week or season passes can be purchased at the Visitor Centre and the Hills Health and Guest Ranch. The Hills also rents cross-country skiing equipment.
- Many of the trails in both 108 Mile Ranch and 99 Mile House are lit for night skiing, though some would argue that nothing tops skiing in the moonlight.
- Trails are not regularly patrolled and visitors are cautioned to carry a good trail map and drinking water, to dress appropriately and use the buddy system, never skiing alone.
- Dogs are not allowed on groomed trails.