XC

Cross-Country Ski Programs

Experience the Thrill of Cross-Country Skiing with Us!

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the pristine landscapes of Alberta with our premier cross-country ski programs.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a novice eager to explore, our expertly crafted adventures cater to all skill levels and ages.

2hr Cross-Country Ski Sampler

Discover the network of trails right in your backyard. This 2-hour lesson (1 p.m.- 3 p.m.) at Confederation Park will introduce basic movement and balance on gentle terrain without the longer drive. Prerequisite: none. 

A. Beginner Cross-Country Ski Lesson

Spend the day learning beginner cross-country ski techniques on the beautiful trails in Kananaskis. This 5-hour lesson will introduce striding, gliding, and turning on easy terrain. Skill-building activities and plenty of practice will help you become comfortable moving on skis. Prerequisite: none. 

B. Basic Hills Cross-Country Ski Lesson

Immerse yourself in a day of adventure and skill-building on the stunning rolling trails of Kananaskis. Our comprehensive 5-hour lesson covers essential techniques such as moving uphill, mastering turns, gliding downhill, and controlling your speed on varied terrain. Through engaging activities and ample practice, you'll gain the confidence to navigate hills with ease and enjoyment. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this experience promises both fun and learning in a breathtaking setting. Prerequisite: A: Beginner Cross-Country Ski Lesson or equivalent experience. 

C. Ski Skills Builder (One Day)

This single day is focused on building your ski techniques on the beautiful trails in Kananaskis.
This 5hr lesson will improve on diagonal striding, double poling skills and introduce one step double pole, while building downhill techniques and learning how to maintain speed on varied terrain.
Skill-building activities and plenty of practice will help you become more efficient and comfortable moving over varied terrain using a wide set of ski techniques.

C. Ski Skills Builder (Series)

Elevate your skiing proficiency with our intensive 4-week course. Delve into the intricacies of cross-country skiing  In this immersive 4 week program, each full day session will introduce you to the fundamental principles of skiing, building on your ski techniques, fostering a strong foundation in movement, balance, and technique. Guided by our expert coaches, you'll master basic strides for efficient climbing and effortlessly gliding on the beautiful trails in Kananaskis.
This series will improve on diagonal striding, double poling skills and introduce one step double pole, while building downhill techniques and learning how to maintain speed on varied terrain.
With hands-on activities and extensive practice, you'll enhance your efficiency and confidence in navigating a variety of terrains using diverse skiing techniques. Prerequisite: Cross-Country A and B courses or equivalent plus several days of experience. 

Intro to Skate Skiing

Elevate your skate skiing proficiency with our intensive 4-week course. Delve into the intricacies of cross-country skate skiing against the scenic backdrop of the city's expansive ski trails.
 
In this immersive program, four x 2-hour sessions will introduce you to the fundamental principles of skate skiing, fostering a strong foundation in movement, balance, and technique. Guided by our expert coaches, you'll master basic strides for efficient climbing and effortlessly gliding on the flat grooming at Confederation Park. . Prerequisite: previous cross-country ski experience. Includes: Foothills Nordic trail maintenance fees.

Loppet Foundation

The Loppet Foundation program builds upon; on snow ski skills and techniques along with basic ski fitness. This 11-week program has been meticulously redesigned to allow beginners, alumni of the Learn/Train to Loppet programs, or those with other cross country ski experience to register for this program and build skills and ski endurance.

The core emphasis of the program will be on enhancing classic ski techniques in order to elevate your skills, amplify your performance, and fuel your passion for cross-country skiing, all the while fostering a sense of camaraderie and community.
Through interaction time between coaches and participants, you'll have the opportunity to establish clear goals and get motivated to enhance both classic technique and overall ski fitness. This preparation is designed to equip you to not only participate in but also successfully complete the Lake Louise Loppet.

The Outdoor Centre's ski coaches will guide engaging discussions during training sessions to cover essential topics such as gear selection, clothing, and fundamental basic nutritional considerations.
As the snow conditions allow, by early December, your cross-country skiing adventure will commence. The ski sessions will introduce and develop your classic ski techniques to build proficiency on snow.

No equipment? No worries! Our top-notch gear rentals include skis, boots and poles—everything you need for a seamless, enjoyable trail experience. Gear Rentals