Make Tracks

Buried under a mound of white and feeling a little blue? Our answer to the January blahs is a bit of R&R (that stands for Recreation and Racing up a sweat). Cross-country skiing is a fun, family-oriented activity that’s accessible and relatively inexpensive (no lift tickets required).

Like any new sport, getting your family moving (and your heart pumping) on local snow-covered trails requires legwork. Kids as young as four can learn to ski although you will want to stick close to home (or hut) and have back-up transportation lined up.

Get the Gear
Toddlers and infants as young as six months can tow along in a pulk sled or a Chariot Carrier with a cross-country ski attachment. Before you invest in one of these cream of the crop strollers, try one first at Sports Rent. Sports Rent also rents nordic ski packages.

Hit the Trails
Hop in the car and head to Kananaskis. With over 85 kilometres of trails in Peter Lougheed Park alone, there is something for everyone. The family favourite is Pocaterra, located approximately 50 km south of the Trans Canada on Hwy 40, offering track set trails, a heated hut and civilized bathroom facilities. The City of Calgary website lists a number of cross-country ski locations in the city and surrounding areas as well.

Trail Sports at the Canmore Nordic Centre offers a streamlined approach with trails, lessons and rentals on site. We love the 90 minute family semi-private lesson (two adults and two kids). Reserve 24 hours in advance.

Canada Olympic Park offers a similar package, although keep in mind the beginner trails are slightly more difficult at COP. Rentals and trail fees are not included.

Family lessons are also available mid-week through the Norseman X-Country Ski Shop. The shop is located close to Mount Royal University and the lessons take place at Hawk Ridge Centre (west of Spruce Meadows on Hwy 22X). While they don’t make snow, they move it from unused farm fields to in-demand tracks all winter. Look to the Norseman staff for reliable guidance on technical apparel and equipment as well.

Take it to the next level by enrolling your kids in the national Jackrabbit or Bunnies program (check each program for the appropriate age range), designed to build strong ski skills through games and exploration. The program is offered by COP (spots still available this season), Foothills Nordic Ski Club, the Calgary Ski Club and the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre (which also offers rentals, lessons and group ski trips).

Remember that a game of ‘I Spy’ or a treasure hunt goes a long way on the tracks. Rosy cheeks, hot chocolate and outdoor fun will warm your heart to winter.

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