Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-Country skiing (Dave Heath photo)
Vanderhoof's Waterlily Lake Ski Trails are a network of tracks weaving in and out of pine, spruce, and aspen forest, passing several viewpoints and lakes.
This ski area offers a variety of one-way or roundtrip routes for Nordic skiers of all experience levels. Route times vary from short (less than an hour) to full days of skiing (up to seven hours). Most of the trails are for beginner to intermediate skiers, but some pitches and ravines are more difficult to maneuver.
Multi-Hour and Day Routes
A great beginner trip is the 3.8km/2.3mi round-trip to Homestead Lake. It takes about 2.5 hours to complete. A slightly longer 10.4 km/6.5mi route heads to Waterlily Lake and back. It takes about 4 hours in total and is recommended for intermediate skiers. More advanced skiers can take in much more of the area and its sights in just one day. Trails are used for hiking in summer.
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Ski and Camp
For those interested in an overnight cross-country ski trip, three-sided wooden shelters are available at both Waterlily and Homestead Lakes. Waterlily Lake also has a small open area, good for snow camping. Bring warm clothes and sleeping bags – winter camping is quite cold here.
Practical Points
- Moose, deer, wolf, coyote, and other wildlife live in the area. Watch for tracks and keep a respectful distance.
- The best time to hit the trails is from as early as November to sometimes as late as May.
- Equipment rentals are not available in town.
- Waterlilly Lake Ski Trails is located about 12km/7.5mi northeast of town. For directions and a map of the trails, which includes approximate trip times, pick up a Waterlily Lake Ski Trails pamphlet at the Vanderhoof Visitor Centre.
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Things To Do
Winter Activities