Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-Country Skiing in Kimberley

The Kimberley Nordic Club maintains a lengthy groomed trail network. Try a circle route – some are lit for night-skiing, too. Easy access to Kimberley Alpine Resort and Kimberley Nature Park allows for additional touring.

Nordic Trails by National Parks

Nipika Mountain Resort (near Radium Hot Springs) is a cross-country destination that borders Kootenay National Park. On the Natural Bridge Trails, ski along 50km/31mi of groomed routes that surround the lodge and cabins. Glimpse wildlife such as elk and lynx, take in waterfalls and a unique natural rock bridge, and then warm up in the day lodge. Lessons with a former Canadian Olympic cross-country ski coach are available, and the resort hosts a “Learn to Cross-Country Ski Week.”

In Yoho National Park, admire rugged peaks on 40km/25mi of groomed tracks. Venture on intermediate trails such as the Emerald Lake Connector Trail or the Lake O’Hara Fire Road. Pop into the day-use cabin on weekends or reserve an overnight hut.

Ski Resorts with Cross-Country Ski Trails

There's cross-country skiing at Panorama Mountain Village Resort (try a trek to the Hale Hut), Fernie Alpine Resort, Whitewater Ski Resort (loop to Hummingbird Pass for spectacular views) and Kicking Horse, in addition to other winter activities.

Smaller Cross-Country Skiing Areas

In Revelstoke, take advantage of the Ole Sandberg cabin at Mount MacPherson to access more than 22km/14mi of groomed trails and loops. Stay at the ski-in, ski-out MacPherson Lodge and enjoy the hot tub.

The South Star ski trail system starts just beyond Cranbrook. Tour 30km/19mi of groomed trails. In Fernie, join a guided “Nordic Ski Adventure” (with gourmet lunch) at Island Lake Lodge.

Nelson is only a ten-minute drive from 25km/15mi of tracks, with a short night-skiing loop and two warming huts.

At Invermere, ski a loop of frozen Lake Windemere, which is track-set for classic and skate skiing.

Practical Points

• Cross-country ski season can begin as early as November and as late as April.
• Trail user fees are common for groomed trail networks. Check with Visitor Centres and local ski clubs for trail maps and information.
• Tours, lessons and equipment rentals are available at many of the larger cross-country ski areas and at some lodges.
• Access to routes may require four-wheel drive and tire chains.
• Be familiar with local weather forecasts and always bring proper equipment. More safety information can be found on the backcountry skiing page.

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