Nimpo Lake Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing on Sapeye Lake south of Nimpo Lake, Deborah Kannegiesser photo
Cross-country ski on groomed and maintained trails, unused roadways, countless frozen lakes, and wide open ranges in the Nimpo Lake area. Each option is differently suited to varying skill and experience levels.
Groomed trails
West of Nimpo, the Tweedsmuir Ski Club maintains 14km/8.7mi of groomed trails in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. By mid-December, another 12km/7.5mi loop is added on frozen lakes and rivers.
At Tatla Lake, a 45-minute drive east of Nimpo Lake on Highway 20, volunteers maintain 30km/18mi of groomed and signed trails. Watch for trailhead signs 1.5km/1mi off the highway on Graham road. Further east, just north of Alexis Creek, cross-country skiers will find approximately 10km/6mi of groomed trails, easily reached by car.
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Ungroomed Routes
Itcha IIgachuz Provincial Park, north of Nimpo Lake, has excellent terrain for wilderness cross-country skiing. Blackwater Waggon Road begins near the Rodeo Grounds on Dorsey Road. Christensen Creek Trail is 12km/7.5mi north of Anahim Lake on Dean River Road. The trail starts just after the Christensen Creek Bridge. Cross-country skiing can always be combined with winter camping.
Annual Events
The Tweedsmuir Ski Club hosts an annual cross-country ski race at the end of February. This family oriented event includes a 7km/4mi half-track for beginners and a double loop of 24km/15mi for experienced skiers. The trail is generally flat with minimum herringbone trekking required.
The Tatla Lake Annual Ski Challenge, open to everyone, includes both an 11.5km/7.15mi loop and a 6km/3.7mi children's challenge loop. Awards are presented at a luncheon following the races, at the Tatla Lake Community Hall.
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 route.
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