With so many months of winter, it's only natural that the residents of Wells, New Barkerville and Quesnel have developed a love for winter sports. Downhill skiing and snowboarding have begun to make their mark on the recreation calendar since the development of tiny Troll Ski Resort on Highway 26, 25km/16mi west of Wells, 45km/28mi east of Quesnel.
Troll Ski Resort
The resort offers 518m/1700ft of vertical terrain and features mainly blue and green, intermediate runs. However, also available are a beginners' area, some black diamonds, and a double black diamond run. All runs are covered in deep natural snow, often with a base of 120cm/47in. No machine-made snow here! There are three surface lifts, known as T-Bars, which are safe and easy to use and keep people close to the ground where it is warmer and out of the wind.
The resort enjoys a sunny, south facing sweep with great valley views. A beautiful day lodge features a massive stone fireplace, so take time to relax in front of the flames after a long day on the slopes. Eat at the welcoming refreshment bar, which serves savoury homemade soups and delicious cinnamon buns.
Lessons and Camps
Lessons for skiing and boarding are available for all ages and Troll offers weekly group classes every Sunday.
Twice a season Troll Mountain offers the Iride Freestyle Camp; three whole days on the slopes, learning and perfecting safe jumps, runs and spins. Everyone from beginners to advanced skiers and boarders, is welcome. At night, camp out in the lodge and watch late night ski and snowboarding movies. Participants go home with a DVD of their ski camp.
Practical Points
Troll Ski Resort is typically open from mid-December until the end of March. It is closed on Tuesdays, however, but open seven days a week during spring break and Christmas Holidays. Equipment can be rented on site. Group, seasonal rates, and packages are available and the resort hosts numerous special events.