Lake Louise Nordic (Cross-Country) Skiing

Cross-country skiing in the Canadian Rockies can be anything and everything you've ever dreamed of. Every trail, every hill and every corner offers a new incredible view of the Rockies. Lake Louise and the surrounding areas offer a vast network of cross-country skiing trails. Try the smooth tracks of the nearby Canmore Nordic Centre, or gentle touring trails throughout Banff National Park. Advanced skiers can enjoy high-alpine glacier traverse that rival the "haute-routes" of the Alps.

Cross-country skiing allows access to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. There are hundreds of kilometres of cross-country trails, trips range from gentle terrain for the novice to the more difficult telemarking backcountry trips for the more experienced skier.

Looking for a group activity or have never tried cross-country skiing, why not give cross country skiing a go. There are many companies that provide levels and have guides for all levels of skiers. Novice skiers can schuss along high country trackset trails learning necessary skills while enjoying the spectacular scenery, while programs for intermediate skiers caters to those who want to leave the tracked trails behind and experience longer backcountry ski tours.

For those wishing to know more about trails in and around the Lake Louise area pick up Ski Trails in the Canadian Rockies by Chic Scott. The author covers groomed trail networks, all backcountry trails and well-established circuits venturing above the tree line. The book also covers suitable clothing for the region and is a great pocket guide.

Families with small children can also enjoy the sport. One can find a special sleds "pulks" which are available at many resorts, allowing an adult to easily and safely ski while pulling their toddler along. You can pick up cross-country ski trail maps from park information centres and check regular ski reports before venturing out.