Are you looking for the most scenic and diverse cross-country skiing spots around Edmonton? If yes, you have landed on the right page. Read Here!
Top spots for cross country skiing around Edmonton
Edmonton is a few hours’ drives from the Canadian Rockies. It is the Capital City of Alberta and one of the most picturesque places for tourists and vacationers. At the same time, it is the Gateway to the North, allowing locals and tourists to find tons of snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Read on!
Marmot Basin
Marmot Basin is an excellent choice for families and friends with beginner and intermediate-level cross-country skiing skills. Located four hours from Edmonton, Marmot Basin has 91 trails for beginner-level, intermediate-level, and expert-level cross-country skiing, enthusiasts.
You will love the picturesque views of the Jasper National Park, boating beautiful mountains with a 1,720-acre skiable area and 3,000 feet of vertical. Marmot Basin has seven lifts across five mountain faces to choose from and two terrain parks with diverse landscapes, including trees, groomed runs, bowls, moguls, and chutes.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise has Canada’s most picturesque and jaw-dropping mountains. You can’t miss this place if you are a cross-country skiing enthusiast. At the same time, this place is best for snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts.
Besides, there are trails and runs for beginner, intermediate, and expert-level skiing players. You can access the runs from the chair, meaning your entire family will relish the experience.
We recommend staying at the world-renowned Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. However, if you are on a budget, you can check out a beautiful mountain chalet. Overall, this area offers mesmerizing and memorable experiences.
Mt. Norquay
Mt. Norquay is near Banff town, allowing visitors to enjoy the lights from night cross-country skiing. It is one of the best spots for locals and tourists looking for the most beautiful trails and runs. Not only is Mt. Norquay famous for cross-country skiing, but it also has numerous hiking, trekking, and snowshoeing trails.
Whether you choose gentle groomers or steep terrains, Mt. Norquay has more than 60 runs that cover an area of over 190 acres. The place boasts 1,650 feet of verticals with five lifts and a terrain park. In addition, the hill has more than 80% of the snowmaking capacity, offering plenty of opportunities to cross-country skiers.
Sunshine Village
Sunshine Village is one of the most beautiful places in Banff National Park, offering premium-quality spots for skiing and cross-country skiing enthusiasts near Edmonton. Sunshine Village is a 15-minute drive from the Banff Tow and sits in the Continental Divide in the beautiful Canadian Rockies.
The best thing about Sunshine Village is that you can ski in Alberta and British Columbia in the same run. The skiing season lasts between November and May. There are more than 120 runs covering an area of 3,300 acres. These include a 12-acre Great Divide Terrain Park and the other regions, offering extensive opportunities for cross-country skiers to relish the scenic Rockies.
Moreover, there are runs for beginner, intermediate, and expert-level cross-country skiers. You can also take lessons and rent the equipment. Expert-level cross-country skiers can test their abilities in the off-piste Delirium Drive. We recommend staying at Sunshine Mountain Lodge or booking an apartment in Banff Town for a more comfortable experience.
Sunridge Ski Area
Sunridge Ski Area has more than 12 runs covering an area of 72 acres. Although it is one of the average-sized cross-country skiing spots near Edmonton, it is famous for its picturesque views. It offers various opportunities, including terrain parks, tubing, night skiing, etc.
Although the ski area does not get the actual large dumps at other mountain resorts near Edmonton, the best thing about the Sunridge Ski area is that it has 100% snowmaking capacity. So, you will enjoy going out for a trip to the place and spending quality time with your family or friends.
Final Words
Cross-country skiing is a healthy activity and social sport, allowing people an opportunity to expand their social life, meet new people, and relish the stunning mountains covered with snow.
Cross-country skiing will make your heart thank you because it is a full-body exercise and improves your health. Lastly, Edmonton offers unique cross-country skiing resorts and diverse landscapes to enjoy the activity with your family or friends. Until Next Time!
- Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
- Photos from Unsplash & canva.