Champagne powder and moderate winter temperatures make Salmon Arm an ideal destination for cross-country skiing. Conditions are reliably good from mid-November through to March.
Larch Hills Cross Country Ski Area
Some of BC's best cross-country ski trails are located in the Larch Hills Cross Country Ski Area, 20km/12.4mi from Salmon Arm. Named for the Larch trees that cover its slopes, (an unusual coniferous species that changes colour to a rich gold in the autumn) this is a pristine wilderness area with silent forest trails and sudden, arresting views of lake and mountain. Free-heelers love it. Classic or skate, Nordic or telemark, trackset or backcountry – Larch Hills accommodates every style and every skill level. Choose from 87 named trails, rated easy, general or advanced, with 41km/25.5mi trackset and over 98km/61mi unset.
Larch Hills Nordic Society
The Larch Hills Nordic Society maintains the trails along with a heated chalet and two warming shelters. Members welcome visitors and gladly answer questions or show off favourite trails. There are no fees but donations are encouraged. The society also hosts a number of annual events including the renowned Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet. The Larch Hills trail system is idea for the family-friendly Loppet, offering a variety of terrain and trail length to challenge skiers in a broad range of ages and abilities.
Ask for details on rentals and directions to Larch Hills Cross Country Ski Area at the Salmon Arm Visitor Centre, 20 Hudson Ave, NE.