Cross-country skiing is a winter sport that relies on picturesque natural surroundings and flat terrain. For cross-country ski enthusiasts, here is a list of six of the best options for your next cross country excursion.
Named the best Nordic ski destination in 2011 by Ski Canada Magazine, Silver Star Mountain Resort is a destination in British Columbia for all levels of cross-country skiers. The temperature here is mild, and the terrain is diverse, perfect for track skiing or skating. Views are stunning and easy to see — the altitude keeps the trails clear of too many clouds.
Directly adjacent to Silver Star, Sovereign Lake Nordic Ski Club offers another Canadian cross-country skier favourite. With more than 23 feet of snowfall annually and plenty of clear blue skies, Sovereign Lake has over 50 kilometres of beautifully groomed trails and a partnership with Silver Star that together, offers more than 100 kilometres of open terrain perfect for all levels of cross-country skier.
Located in Ottawa, Gatineau Park is one of the most expansive destinations for cross-country skiing trails on the continent. Perfect for skiers of all levels, this park offers more than 200 kilometres of trails, including those for both Nordic or skating. For longer trips and adventurous skiers, overnight winter camping is also available.
Cross country skiing in the Laurentians, or ski de fond as they call it in Quebec, offers hundreds of ski trails for Nordic and skate skiers. With perfect winter conditions for the sport, the Laurentians is home to some of the best cross-country ski areas in the world, including Sainte-Agathe, Mont Tremblant, and Val Morin.
When it comes to cross-country skiing, Whistler has it all: over 160 kilometres of trails including dog-friendly spots, lessons, and night skiing opportunities. British Columbia's winter playground has sweeping views and impeccable weather conditions on top of it all, making it one of the best cross-country ski destinations in all of North America.
The landscape and wildlife are what makes Banff one of the premier places to practise cross country skiing in all of Canada. Banff is a national park tucked into the Canadian Rockies, and the area around Lake Louise is rich with all-level cross-country trails including those for skating.
Take advantage of winter's beauty at any of these spectacular cross-country skiing spots and you'll have fun and get into shape at the same time.
