Edmonton’s expansive river valley and parks system is a perfect cross-country skiing destination! We’ve even listed a few outside the city, if you’re feeling more adventurous.
Cross-Country Skiing in Edmonton
Groomed trail are located throughout the city, but are found primarily in the beautiful river valley. Trails are groomed by the City and Edmonton Nordic Ski Club, providing a fantastic opportunity to explore on skis.
Groomed Cross-Country Ski Trails in Edmonton
- Argyll Park/Mill Creek
- Capilano Park
- Gold Bar Park
- Goldstick Park
- Kinsmen Park
- Riverside Golf Course
- Sir Wilfred Laurier Park
- Victoria Golf Course
- William Hawrelak Park
Note: Hermitage and Rundle Parks will not be groomed this winter.
Skijoring
Ski-what? Skijoring! Think cross-country skiing meets dogsledding. Let your dog run the trails and pull you along behind. Skijoring is allowed on the Argyll Park/Mill Creek trails.
Trail Maps & Conditions
Check the City website to find trail maps for each park and current conditions.
Many skiers find the SkiYEG by Track ‘N Trail app helpful. It lists dozens of ski trails in the Edmonton area, as well as updated conditions. It is available for Android and iOS/iPhone.
Park Amenities & Trail Lighting
Each groomed park has an emergency phone. Please also carry a cell phone, especially if you are skiing alone or at night. See the Winter Chalet Network Map for types and locations of building and washroom amenities. The trails at Gold Bar/Gold Stick and Kinsmen Parks are lit at night for evening or night skiing.
Ski2LRT
Have you thought about commuting on your skis? Well now you can! Cross-country ski to the Century Park LRT Station, and lock your skis and poles in a rack before hopping on the train. Make sure to take your own padlock for the rack. Approach routes are found at https://goo.gl/gRQNEY More details are available at www.facebook.com/Ski2LRT
Learn How to Cross-Country Ski
The City of Edmonton programs are back! Classes are being offered on Saturdays and Sundays through the middle of March. Learn the basics of skiing, or refine and improve your current skills. For more information on dates, times and registration, check out move.learn.play.
A quick view of all City courses, times and registration codes: OAE 2023 Cross Country Ski Poster All Classes
Edmonton Nordic Club also offers cross-country ski lessons for all ages. www.edmontonnordic.ca
Cross-Country Skiing Close to Edmonton
Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area / 60 km east of Edmonton
Elk Island National Park (Amiskwuche and Lakeview trails recommended) / 48 km east of Edmonton
Strathcona Wilderness Centre / 16 km east of Edmonton / Also offers adaptive ski equipment (sit skis or standing equipment) suited for participants who are amputees, visually impaired or those who have a spinal cord injury.