Cross-Country Skiing / Backcountry Skiing
Skiing may have been practised by First Nations people in Northern British Columbia, although Norwegian Herbert “Jackrabbit” Johannsen gained widespread recognition for being one of the first people to introduce it to Canada. He attained legendary status for his many contributions to the sport and for his personal longevity – he died in 1987 at the age of 111.
While on a trip to Canada to sell logging and construction machinery in 1902, Johannsen was befriended by the Cree in the wilderness above North Bay, Ontario, who gave him the nickname “Jackrabbit” because they were so impressed by his speed on skis, compared with the snowshoes they were using.
The long tradition of cross-country skiing is alive and well and accessible during Winter in Tumbler Ridge, where our groomed Nordic trails are ideal for traditional and skate skiing. In addition, many of the trails used for summer hiking, BC's most scenic, transition to skiing routes once the snow flies. Nearby hills, valleys and flatlands provide a variety of experiences, from easy tours to rugged ski mountaineering. Spring is the best time for tours, with longer days and settled snow.
By far the most popular cross-country skiing destination is the Wolverine Trail system (maintained by the WNMS), which begins and ends at the golf course. From here, you glide over the open, snow-covered greens before plunging into the woods beyond, along 10 km (6.2 mi) of forested trails with views high above the Murray River Valley. The system of interlocking loops is groomed for classic and skate, and you can choose how far you want to go before looping back. Just when you need a warm-up break, the Lost Haven Cabin beckons with its woodstove and the opportunity to rest, enjoy a hot drink and meet other skiers.
For even wider horizons, our backcountry is accessible, endless and uncrowded. This is a mountainous region with stunning views and exciting descents. The Holzworth Meadows and Mt. Babcock are two favourite alpine locales.
Skate Skiing
Be adventurous! Try this fusion of skating, skiing, Nordic skiing and rollerblading. Much like ice skating, skate skiing involves pushing one ski outward with the ski angled, so that the inner edge of the ski is driven against the snow. Skate skis tend to be shorter and stiffer than those used in classical technique, and poles are longer.
Creek and Canyon Skiing
In winter, the numerous creeks in the Tumbler Ridge area freeze, creating natural highways through striking scenery. Remote canyons, inaccessible at other times of the year, are popular in winter, with a huge bonus: most trails lead to our magnificent frozen waterfalls. The WNMS breaks trail on a number of creek routes during the heart of winter, but these are just scratching the surface. There are dozens of waterways, some of which have never been fully explored.
Flatbed Creek is less than five minutes from town, and offers a 7 km/4.4 mi (return) trail to Flatbed Falls. Many other creeks in the area, such as Babcock, Bullmoose, M20 and Tentfire are other good choices.
Remember to use caution when following a creek bed. Ski at the edges, unless you know the ice is safe, and take care around rapids and waterfalls.
Ridge Ramble Cross-Country Ski Race – February
Tumbler Ridge Golf and Country Club is home to this fun event for all ages and skill levels: 5.5k for adults, 2.5k and 1.25k for kids. Since its inception in 1997, the race has varied from 20k (three laps of the main ski trail) to medium distances on the fairway loops and sprints on the driving range. Spectator-friendly and action packed, it’s a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy a beautiful winter day, with warm-up refreshments and a prize-giving celebration at the clubhouse.
Late December through March is generally the best time for local skiing, although it’s not unusual to get out on the trails as early as October and as late as May.
To learn more about skiing in Tumbler Ridge, as well as current conditions, contact: