Generous snowfalls, mild climates, plentiful facilities and vast trail networks through spectacular terrain combine to make British Columbia an excellent cross-country skiing destination.
Discover incredible cross-country trail networks throughout the province. Trails will appeal whether you're a world-class skier or a first-timer learning about sitzmarks.
BC trails offer expert grooming, natural backcountry, gentle hills, steeper slopes and trails to suit both classic (the traditional technique that often follows set tracks) and skate (side-to-side, similar to ice skating) ski enthusiasts.
There are more than 50 cross-country ski areas here, and countless more ungroomed options in provincial and national parks.
Learn more about Cross-Country Skiing in BC's regions and cities:
Iconic Cross-Country Ski Areas
The Thompson Okanagan is well-known for its excellent cross-country skiing. Mild winter temperatures, quality snow and world-class trail networks (such as Silver Star and Sovereign Lake) are a big draw. Many national Nordic teams train in this region, so visitors have the unique opportunity to ski the same trails used by Olympic athletes.
The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is big (literally) for cross-country skiing. One of the largest community network of cross-country trails in Canada is around 100 Mile House, and consists of 150 km (93 mi) of groomed trails. The 100 Mile House Visitor Centre is also home to the world’s tallest cross-country skis (3.3 m/11 ft high) – a fun photo opportunity.
Manning Provincial Park, in the Vancouver Coast & Mountains region, is known for its dry snow. Another favourite in this region is Whistler Olympic Park and the Callaghan Valley. Combined, they have 90 km (56 mi) of trails, soon to be complemented by a spectacular new 11,000 sq. ft day lodge (expected to be open to the public in late November, 2008). Both these areas are so popular that a local cross-country ski shop organizes day trips, complete with bus transportation and lessons.
Near Vancouver, Cypress Mountain’s beautiful trail network is close to downtown (only ~30 minutes by car), making it very popular with locals seeking nature near the city.
World-Class Cross-Country Skiing and the 2010 Olympic Winter Games
BC is world-class when it comes to cross-country skiing areas. In 2010, the Olympic Winter Games will see international athletes competing for gold at Whistler Olympic Park.
Leading up to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, national cross-country ski teams will be training in BC: Norway, Finland and Australia will be at Silver Star and Sovereign Lake, while Sweden will be at Mount Washington.
As well, Sovereign Lake and Silver Star have hosted two Cross-Country World Cups; in 2009, Whistler Olympic Park will be the venue for this international event.
What You Need to Know
- The mild winter climate of many regions, combined with plenty of snow, makes BC an ideal place to explore trails, mountains, and forests from a set of skinny skis.
- The cross-country ski season can begin as early as November and end as late as April.
- Cross-country ski areas and active clubs maintain groomed trails suitable for all skill levels; like downhill skiing, cross-country ski trails are often given a colour-coded rating to indicate difficulty (green: easy; blue: intermediate; or black: difficult).
- Day lodges or warming huts along the trail provide skiers with a place to rest, warm up or have a snack. Some trail systems are lit for night-skiing. Trail user fees are common for groomed trail networks. Check with local Visitor Centres for trail maps and information.
- Tours, lessons and equipment rentals are available at many of the larger cross-country ski areas.
- Most trail networks are near communities or ski resorts and can be easily accessible by car. Some ski areas (usually at resorts) have shuttle buses that can transport skiers from a nearby community to the mountain.
- Accommodation can range from high-end resorts and ski-in ski-out lodges to backcountry huts and winter camping.
Have you had a BC Cross-Country Skiing adventure? Write a blog about it and share your experiences!