A Guide to Cross-Country Skiing in Alberta: Where to Go and What to Know

It’s no secret that Albertans don’t shy away from the cold weather. In fact, Alberta’s winters present countless opportunities for outdoor fun and recreation—and right at the top of that list is cross-country skiing.

Cross-country skiing 101

Unlike the downhill version of the sport, cross-country skiing is a more leisurely activity that allows participants to really get to know their routes and surroundings. It’s also versatile, in that beginners and advanced skiers alike can have a great time, changing their speed or exertion level to match their preferred challenge.

When it comes to the trails themselves, there are two main types you’ll encounter, each tailored to a different style of skiing. Trails groomed for classic cross-country skiing have two ski-sized grooves pre-stamped into the snow, while those groomed for skate skiing consist of one wider pathway. These trails are often side by side, allowing both types of skiers to follow the same routes.

Plus, unlike other winter sports, cross-country skiing doesn’t require intense clothing. In fact, the main thing to avoid is overheating. That means no to snowpants and heavy winter jackets, and yes to layers of clothing that can easily be removed as needed. Lightweight, breathable jackets and pants will be your best friend on the trails.

If you plan to become a regular cross-country skier, it’s worth purchasing your own gear. But if you’re just starting out, you can rent everything you need at places like Black Tie Ski Rentals in Banff, Trail Sports in Canmore, and Totem Outdoor Outfitters in Edmonton.

As for where to take those skis? Well, in Alberta, you’re frankly spoiled for choice. Here are just a few great places around the province where you can hit the trails.

Gold Bar Park

With more than 160 km (99 mi) of trails to choose from, the city of Edmonton has no shortage of options when it comes to cross-country skiing. Some of its most popular can be found at Gold Bar Park, in the east end of the provincial capital. Skiers can choose the route that matches their skill level (in other words, hills are optional), but the beauty of the park and its well-groomed trails—maintained by the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club —are a constant presence.

If you can, head out at night to enjoy a truly unforgettable ski experience under the stars.

Strathcona Wilderness Centre

The Strathcona Wilderness Centre is a tranquil gem, located just a 30-minute drive east of Edmonton, and has been a magnet for cross-country skiers for decades. With a daily admission pass, you can follow beautiful, groomed trails through a scenic mixture of aspen, birch and poplar trees. There are also 12 km (7.5 mi) of trails designed according to ParaNordic guidelines, making them accessible to skiers with physical disabilities.

All necessary equipment can be rented onsite, and visitors will also want to check out the new outdoor patio, complete with tables and heaters—the perfect setting for a winter picnic.

Shaganappi Point Golf Course

Alberta’s biggest city of Calgary is also a haven for cross-country skiers, offering unique and unforgettable views of the urban landscape. New skiers should look no further than the Shaganappi Golf Course, which has ten numbered, groomed trails to choose from.

Want to plan your trip in advance? The Shaganappi Nordic Operations Club sends out a regular newsletter with information about trail conditions and other ski-related updates.

Canmore Nordic Centre

Skiing aficionados from around the world will no doubt be familiar with the Canmore Nordic Centre. Located at the foot of beautiful Mount Rundle (roughly an hour’s drive west of Calgary), this centre was built to host cross-country skiing events at the 1988 Winter Olympics and offers 65 km (40 mi) of both natural and groomed trails.

No matter your experience level, or whether you’re a skate-skier or a traditionalist, you’ll find plenty to do here—and if you need a break, drop by the warming hut in the meadow at the centre of the trail system.

Please note that passes are required to ski at the Canmore Nordic Centre. Equipment can also be rented onsite.

Tunnel Mountain / Lake Louise

When it comes to the iconic resort town of Banff and nearby Lake Louise, it’s impossible to pick just one spot to go cross-country skiing.

Beginners will want to start with the trails at Tunnel Mountain, which can be found just a five-minute drive from Banff, and which feature 8 km (5 mi) of accessible skiing perfect for new skiers. It’s the perfect way to build your skills while taking in unforgettable mountain views.

More experienced skiers, meanwhile, will want to head a little further up Highway 1 to Lake Louise and its network of more than a dozen cross-country trails. The Lake Louise Loop is a flat, 4.6km (2.9 mi) circle that runs across the lake and through the nearby woods, while the Moraine Lake Road trail is a trickier, 17.8km (11 mi) loop that involves several hills. (For both routes, be sure to check the avalanche and weather conditions ahead of time.)

Hamilton House

For an all-inclusive experience, check out Hamilton House, a charming bed-and-breakfast inn located just outside the town of Cold Lake in eastern Alberta. The owners of the inn also maintain 14 km (8.7 mi) of groomed cross-country trails on their property, beginning and ending just steps from the door of your room.

You can rent your own equipment onsite, and then choose from a series of beautiful trails and loops ranging from 1 to 8 km (0.6 to 5 mi) each. The terrain is just as varied, too, from a frozen lake to hills and valleys, all nestled in the distinctive boreal forest.

Cypress Hills

Located in the southeast corner of the province, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park (yes, it runs into Saskatchewan) doesn’t have your typical prairie scenery. As the name suggests, this is a gorgeously treed area, with more than 30 km (18.6 mi) of groomed trails for cross-country skiers on the Alberta side.

Novice skiers can make use of either the Spring Creek or Spruce Coulee trail systems, while more experienced skiers will want to stick to the Spruce Coulee system. Equipment can be rented from the park’s visitor centre.

Don’t forget to après-ski!

One of the best parts about cross-country skiing? The fun doesn’t end when you take your skis off.

“Après-ski,” as it’s known, is the perfect way to wind down after a long day on the trails. The term translates to “after ski,” and dates back to the French Alps, when tired skiers would get cozy with a refreshing drink, good company, and tell stories late into the night. Those traditions live on today with winter adventurers all around the world, Alberta very much included.

Whether you’re enjoying a soothing spa treatment at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a thermos full of your favourite hot beverage at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, or a delicious home-cooked meal at Hamilton House, après-ski is all about relaxation, fun, and camaraderie with your fellow skiers.