The Best Places to Cross Country Ski in Golden, BC
Cross country skiing is one of the best ways to explore the outdoors and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Golden is home to some of the best cross country skiing around, and has trails to suit everyone from the first timer to the trained expert. Whether you’re after perfectly groomed trails or an opportunity to find your own route through nature, Golden, B.C. has what you’re looking for.
Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre
Just 1 km from the base of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre has 33 km of regularly groomed trails for both classic cross country and skate skiing.
The views are spectacular, the silence is amazing, and with green, blue and black trails there are options for everyone.
The day lodge is outfitted with a ski tuning area, rental shop, change rooms and a lounge area for relaxing, and lessons are available for all ages and abilities.
Dawn Mountain is a beautiful place to spend your time (and one of our definite favourites!) making this a popular cross country ski location when in Golden.
Golden Golf Course
Just down the road from Dawn Mountain, the Golden Golf Course is also home to cross country skiing during the winter months.
The 6 km of classic track set trails are maintained by the Golden Nordic Ski Club and are suitable for both beginner and intermediate skiers. The trail here is rolling and quite mellow, and with its close location town it's a very convenient option.
Trail fees are by donation to the club at the on-site drop box and go towards the grooming and track setting of the trails.
Photo: Dave Best, Tourism Golden
Cedar Lake & Moonraker Trails
Set your own track through the forests of the Moonraker trails and across the Cedar Lakes.
Home to an extensive network of bike trails in the summer, this area is not maintained during the winter months and gives skiers the opportunity to map out their own adventure.
With many loops and circuits available you can make your day as long or as short as you'd like. Ski through the forest, travel across the lakes and take in the mountain views. It's a great way to spend some time in Golden, B.C.
You can even bring your 4 legged friend along as this area is dog friendly.
Blaeberry River
Located north of town in the Blaeberry Valley (at the end of Moberly School Road), this is a great area for a scenic ski by the Blaeberry River. Parts of the trail may be frequented by snowmobiles or horses so it is well packed down and can be rough, however, areas are often track-set by locals which makes for some awesome skiing.
The terrain is mainly flat or rolling, catering to a wide range of abilities. Ski along the river or adventure into the woods - this isn't a defined trail so you're free to choose your own adventure!
This area is also dog friendly just be sure to yield to oncoming traffic and pick up after your dog.
Rentals
Right in downtown Golden you can pick up your cross country ski rentals at Higher Ground Sports. If you're headed to Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre, you can also get your skis on site at their rental shop.
Wherever you choose to adventure, we hope you enjoy gliding through our winter wonderland!
Cheers from all of us here at Whitewater Lodge
Just a short drive eastbound from Golden, you will find Yoho and Banff National Park. Both areas offer a number of iconic must see attractions within a short distance of each other. Stop at one or link several of them together for an epic day of sightseeing.