BC has over 50 nordic skiing areas and even more opportunities in national and provincial parks. Explore world-class trails groomed for both skate and classic skiing, or if you prefer, pristine ungroomed backcountry, tons of snow and amazing terrain.

 

Popular British Columbia Cross Country Skiing Holidays

 

Tackle trails skied by Olympians at Whistler Olympic Park or Sovereign Lake. Alternatively take ski lessons from a former Olympic coach at Nipika Mountain Resort. Embark upon an adventure and discover cowboy country on skis at a guest ranch at Hills Health Ranch near Williams Lake. Glide through old-growth snow-laden forests in Bulkley Valley Nordic Centre and Strathcona Provincial Park, share tracks with wildlife near Smithers or in Manning Park.

British Columbia Ski Resorts

Out of the 13 major British Columbia ski resorts, ten offer cross country skiing trails with great access to an abundance of amenities such as: restaurants, accommodations and other winter activities . Groomed tracks are available for all skill levels. World class atheletes have skied extensive trail networks with scenic views at BC resorts such as Silver Star, Mount Washington, Callaghan Valley (near Whistler), Panorama and Kicking Horse.

 

Tips for Nordic Skiing

 

Nordic skiing season can almost be a full six months in some places in British Columbia - it can begin as early as November and end as late as April.
Groomed trail networks often charge a user fee.
Larger nordic ski areas offer lessons, tours and equipment rentals
Some routes may require four-wheel drive or tire chains for access
Always familiarize yourself with local weather forecasts before going out and where appropriate clothing

Cross Country Skiing Attire

The right clothing can make or break your nordic skiing holiday. Below is a quick guide to cross country skiing attire.

 

Wear  Layers That Are Insulating - Insulating layers is a big must, just like when downhill skiing. It is recommended to wear a synthetic fabric, not cotton for the first layer. A synthetic fabric will wick away any sweat and will keep you considerably mor comfortable. The mid-layer may be a sweater or turtleneck.. Although some skiers wear a softshell or fleece jacket. And as noted above, the outer layer should be a waterproof jacket.
Wear the Right-Kind of Accessories -
Headwear - Wearing a helmet isn't required for nordic skiing, giving you the opportunity to have fun with hats. A hat that is stylish is great, but be sure that it's functional too.
Eye protections - Sport sunglasses on a sunny day will protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays and help you see better. Prescription sport sunglasses can be helpful too.
Gloves - just like with jackets and pants, a sleek, insulated pair of gloves is better than bulky gloves. It's worth spending the money on a quality pair of gloves to keep your hands warm, as cold hands can spoil your day.

Wear a Waterproof Jacket - Be sure to wear a waterproof jacket that isn't restrictive and one of which you can easily move in. A downhill skiing jacket will also work for nordic skiing , if it's not too bulky. If you are thinking of doing a lot of nordic skiing, it may be worth the investment in buying a jacket that is more slim fitting. As slimmer fitting and more contoured style jackets are more aero-dynamic.
Wear Cross Country Skiing Pants - Like a jacket, if you have an alpine skiing jacket, you could use it for cross country skiing as well. However, if you are going to do a lot of nordic skiing, you may have a better time with pants that are designed specifically for cross country skiing. The difference between the two is that most cross country skiing pants are designed to allow movement that is specific to nordic skiing. Whereas, downhill pants are looser fitting and not as slim-cut and aero-dynamic.

 

 

Clay is a  writer for Sun Peaks Resort, a canada ski resort north of Kamloops, BC. Sun Peaks Resort offers cross country skiing holidays for all skiing enthusiasts.

 


Article from articlesbase.com


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