The Nicola Nordic Ski Club is anticipating one of its most active cross-country seasons in recent memory.
So says NNSC director Ian Webster.
“All the closures, restrictions and protocols associated with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have severely affected people’s traditional sports, recreation and leisure choices. Many, many sports and programs – both in the schools and in the community – have had to be suspended or outright terminated. It has severely shortened the playing field, so to speak, and reduced the number of viable, safe options.
“Almost every activity indoors has been significantly impacted,” adds Webster. “The outdoors is the place to be this winter, and what better activity than cross-country skiing.”
In comparison to many other activities, cross-country skiing is relatively inexpensive. A full set of equipment (skis, boots, poles) can be purchased for between $100-$200 new, and considerably less if used already.
“Excellent equipment frequently shows up at consignment stores, on Buy and Sell sites, and even at thrift shops,” says Webster. “Cost is an important concern at any time, but never more so than during this difficult economic period.”
Rental equipment is also available locally at Breathe Bikes, located downtown on Quilchena Ave.
“Travis (Fehr) will do an excellent job outfitting you with the proper equipment, and prepping the skis for the day’s snow conditions,” said Webster. “As for where to ski, the options are almost limitless. Once the snow hits the valley bottom, you can pretty well take the ‘planks’ any place where the public is allowed to roam – city parks like Central and Voght, nearby school playing fields, and crown land such as above the Bench and at the top of Hamilton Hill.”
Those looking for a bit more of a backcountry experience need only travel 15 minutes out of Merritt to the beautiful Kane Valley, where almost 50km of groomed cross-country ski trails are at their disposal. There are vehicle parking lots, maps available at many of the starting points, as well as shelters, firepits and outhouses at a number of strategic locations.
“There are trails for all ages and levels of ability, for individuals, for families and for groups,” said Webster. “We’ve had tots out there as young as 18 months, and seniors who are soon-to-be centenarians. We even have pet-friendly trails.”
The Kane Valley trail network sees regular visitors from as far away as Alberta and Washington State, as well as skiers from throughout B.C.
“Every year, we get a full bus load come up from North Vancouver,” says Webster. “They do the Kane Valley on the Saturday, and then ski at Logan Lake on the Sunday before heading home. They absolutely love it up here.”
The cost of skiing the Kane Valley trail system is very nominal, especially when compared to its downhill counterpart.
“It’s just $10 per day per person, payable on site at a drop box,” Webster said. “By far the best option however, if you plan to ski more than once or twice in a season, is a Nicola Nordic Ski Club membership, which includes unlimited skiing for the entire season. A single membership season’s pass costs $50; an entire family membership with season’s pass just $90. That’s less than you would pay to ski one day at Sun Peaks or Big White, not including additional travel costs. And there’s no lift lines!”
The Nicola Nordic Ski Club, in association with several provincial bodies, acts as the steward for the Kane Valley Ski Trails. Its members build and repair the trails and facilities, erect signage, arrange for grooming and tracking during the winter months, and collect both user and membership fees annually. All monies collected goes towards maintaining and improving what has been called a local “diamond in the rough”.
NNSC membership information and forms can be obtained at Breathe Bikes and at Brambles Bakery beginning November 30th. The club has a goal of surpassing 60 members this season, and has arranged a pre-Christmas draw that will see the winner take home a wonderful basket of goodies, including one free membership for the 2021-22 season. But you’ll have to be quick – only memberships taken out prior to Dec. 19 will be eligible.
“We’d really like to see the Nordic club grow in membership,” said Webster. “This would be the perfect season for it. There’s nothing better than being in the great outdoors, especially during these most trying of times.”
For more information, you can go to the club’s website at www.nicolanordic.ca or contact Ian Webster at [email protected] or John and Kate Anderson at [email protected].
