Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-Country skiing (Dave Heath photo)
There's lots of space for cross-country skiing in Northern BC, as this vast region comprises more than half of British Columbia.
Along with immense terrain, expect remote wilderness, huge snowfalls, spectacular scenery and plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities.
At Bulkley Valley Nordic Centre in Smithers, ski freshly dusted tracks through old-growth forest, or glide to three picturesque lakes on the Onion Lake Trails near Kitimat. Opt for city scenery on urban trails in Prince George, or discover the isolated beauty of smaller, more remote ski areas.
Multi-day cross-country ski vacations are possible (basic cabins and lodges are available for overnight use), along with exploring the region on snowshoes or by dogsled.
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Cross-Country Skiing near Smithers
Bulkley Valley Nordic Centre is a favourite with locals and tourists. Choose from 45km/28mi of groomed classic, skate and lit trails that weave through quiet, sheltered forests, and traverse easy, flat loops or tackle steep climbs with sharp turns. Find welcome respite from the cold in the day lodge, or venture to cabins in the ungroomed backcountry.
Discover more ungroomed cross-country adventures in Babine Mountain Provincial Park.
Cross-Country Skiing near Terrace and Kitimat
On the Onion Lake Ski Trails (located between Terrace and Kitimat), explore more than 35km/22mi of terrain, and loop around scenic lakes set against the backdrop of the Coast Mountains. Warming huts and night-skiing are available.
Cross-Country Skiing near Prince George
The Otway Nordic Centre is just minutes from Prince George. Navigate 45km/25mi of beginner to advanced trails (some of which are dog-friendly), and sip hot chocolate in the day lodge. The Greenway Trail conveniently connects the Nordic centre to a few in-town destinations. Backcountry trails with warming huts can be found nearby at Tabor Mountain ski area.
Smaller Cross-Country Ski Areas
The Omineca Ski Club (Burns Lake) maintains a good network of trails and a large day lodge, and Houston has trails to Silverthorne Lake and an overnight cabin.
In Mackenzie, find groomed trails right in town, plus warming cabins with views of the lake and mountains.
Look for wildlife on the flat, gently rolling trails in Fort St. John or make snowshoe tracks nearby at Beatton Provincial Park. Complete a winter vacation here with a trip to Charlie Lake for ice fishing.
Bring skis to Dawson Creek, Tumbler Ridge and McBride, which have cross-country trails close to town, along with warming huts and shelters.
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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