Edmonton is a winter wonderland for cross-country skiers, offering a diverse range of trails and destinations within the city limits and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there are plenty of options to explore the snowy landscapes and enjoy the benefits of this exhilarating outdoor activity.
What are the Best Locations for Cross-Country Skiing in Edmonton?
The top destinations for cross-country skiing in Edmonton include:
- Goldbar, Goldstick, and Capilano Parks
- Victoria Golf Course and Park
- Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area
- Strathcona Wilderness Centre
- Chickakoo Lake Recreation Area
- Devon Golf Course
- St. Albert
Goldbar, Goldstick, and Capilano Parks
These parks offer a combined 12 kilometers of trails maintained by the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club. The trails cater to skiers of all skill levels, with three easy, three intermediate, and three advanced trails. The trails are groomed for both classic and skate-style skiing, and they feature a scenic variety, including frozen ponds, open meadows, and forested areas. The trails are frequently groomed (typically four times a week) and are illuminated for night skiing.
Victoria Golf Course and Park
This golf course transforms into a cross-country skiing destination in the winter, offering a variety of trails for different skill levels. The trails provide a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area
Located 60 km east of Edmonton, this area offers an impressive 170 km of trails for cross-country skiing, making it a popular destination for a long day trip.
Strathcona Wilderness Centre
This centre offers trails that are always in pristine condition due to minimal foot traffic, making it an ideal location for cross-country skiing.
Chickakoo Lake Recreation Area
This area features 14 kilometers of carefully maintained trails with single and double tracks, including skating lanes. It also has a warm-up chalet for skiers.
Devon Golf Course
The Devon Nordic Ski Club maintains the trails on the golf course, which are split into three sections: Lions Park, River Trail, and the golf course. The trails are one-directional with arrows indicating the direction and level of difficulty.
St. Albert
St. Albert offers four different areas for skiing, including the river loop, Riverlot, and Kingston Park. The trails feature classic tracks and skate skiing, with some areas offering rolling hills and scenic views.
Where Can I Rent Cross-Country Skis in Edmonton?
There are several options for cross-country ski rentals in Edmonton, including:
Rental Provider | Location |
---|---|
Totem Outdoor Outfitters | Edmonton |
Sundance Ski & Snowboard | Edmonton |
Out of Bounds Snow | Edmonton |
Shift Happens Bicycle Repair | Devon |
These rental providers offer a variety of equipment, including standard and high-performance skis, for both adults and children.
Where Can I Take Cross-Country Skiing Lessons in Edmonton?
Cross-country ski lessons are available in Edmonton through various clubs and organizations, such as the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club. These lessons cater to different skill levels and age groups, providing an opportunity for both beginners and experienced skiers to improve their technique and enjoy the sport.
Compared to Calgary, Edmonton offers a more extensive network of trails within the city limits, with many parks and golf courses converted into cross-country skiing destinations in the winter. Calgary, on the other hand, has more trails located outside the city, requiring a longer drive to access. However, both cities provide a range of trails for different skill levels and offer rental options and lessons for those new to cross-country skiing.
References:
– Guide to Cross-Country Skiing in Edmonton
– Cross-Country Skiing Close to Edmonton
– Hiking to Cross-Country Skiing Near Edmonton