Less than 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Cross-Country ski enthusiasts can be right in the midst of a winter wonderland! 

Metro Vancouver
With over 19 kms of groomed trails it’s no wonder that Cypress Mountain is Canada’s most popular Cross Country area. With Classic and Skate programs for all levels, everyone can enjoy skiing amongst snowy mountain forests and spectacular views. With a respected Ski School to match the beautiful and varied trail system, visitors will appreciate the variety of lesson programs from single day clinics to multi-session programs for skiers of all ages and abilities.

Mighty Fraser Country
Located in the Cascade Mountains, approximately 220 km east of Vancouver, Manning Park Resort has a long history of being a favourite cross-country ski destination. With 25 km of groomed cross-country trails, 100 km of ungroomed but marked trails and a huge area of alpine bowls for backcountry skiing, the Nordic skier will think that they have found a winter nirvana! The Nordic school is available for lessons for everyone from kids and beginners to the more advanced skier who wants to try their hand at something a little different, like Skate or Telemark skiing.

Sea to Sky Country
Known as a Mecca for downhill skiers, Whistler is also a great destination for cross country skiing. Lost Lake in Whistler is a cross country skiers dream come true! Just a 5 minute walk from the Village, nestled amongst the trees, Lost Lake is home to more than 30 kilometres of well maintained trails. With snow covered trees, wandering streams, breathtaking views and a well-lit trail around the lake, the trails are perfect for all levels of Nordic skiers. Make sure to take advantage of the Lost Lake Warming Hut, where you can get trail passes, rentals, lessons, instructions and maps. You can also cross-country on Whistler Mountain in designated areas.

Advanced backcountry skiers will find a challenge in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Many people ski across Garibaldi Lake during January and February to the winter access only huts on the other side. If you plan to explore any of the region’s provincial parks in the winter, please make sure that you stick to the marked trails and ensure that someone is aware of your route. Deep in the South Chilcotin area of the region, north of Whistler, skiers will find some of the best backcountry skiing in the region. Some of these stunning cross-country ski trails are groomed, but most are trails waiting to be discovered. Ideal for small groups who want to experience a different variety of trails, groups can do day trips while based at a comfortable lodge, or the more adventurous can head deep into this stunning backcountry and strike camp in private alpine cabins.

Sunshine Coast
A popular wilderness area and home to more than 12 km (7.46 mi) of well developed cross-country ski trails is the Tetrahedron Recreation Area, the Sunshine coast’s biggest and newest park. Snow often remains in the forest until June and the Tetrahedron Ski Club has built these spectacular trails as well as four cozy 12 persons cabins scattered throughout the park.

In the Powell River area, local cross-country ski enthusiasts make their way to the Knuckleheads Winter Recreation Area. Approximately 3 miles by 2 miles of gently sloped terrain, the trails are suitable for beginner and advanced skiers, and the views are truly breathtaking.