Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-Country skiing (Dave Heath photo)
Cross-country ski groomed trails near McBride are set against a towering backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Trails are suited to various levels of ability and fitness. Some have even been used by Olympic athletes in training. Backcountry and alpine skiing are also options in the McBride area.
Bell Mountain and Other Trails
Bell Mountain (13km/8mi west of McBride) has trails with a moderate level of elevation gain. The local Yellowhead Ski Club maintains approximately 15km/9.3mi of groomed and track-set trails at Bell Mountain. Trails are colour-coded to indicate whether a trail is easy, intermediate, or advanced. There are plenty of hills to provide an excellent workout, a warming hut along the way, and a couple of little lakes with breathtaking views.
Explore 8km/5mi of more rustic trails at Dore River. These trails are sometimes track-set, as snow and weather permits. Dunster, just 30km/18.6mi east of McBride, also has cross-country ski trails.
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Practical Points
- Cross-country skiers should be equipped with avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes in mountain areas.
- Temperatures can be very cold in winter and can drop quickly. It is best to dress in layers.
- Do not ski alone in backcountry areas.
- Make someone aware of planned routes.
Check with the McBride Visitor Centre for more information cross-country ski trails, and backcountry and alpine areas.
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Things To Do
Winter Activities