Try cross-country skiing throughout Canada

Canada Travel Tips

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Monday, 19 December 2011 18:14

Travellers who journey to the Ottawa region over the winter know that this area is a popular place to ski, snowboard and have fun participating in a wealth of other winter sports. Those who want to have a more relaxing time and enjoy the scenic beauty may also want to try cross-country skiing. Similar to the downhill version, this sport is done by gliding along the snow's surface on a flat plane and gently moving forward  though wooded trails and pathways. Visitors of all ages who are in Canada's capital city can enjoy this classic pastime while delighting in a fantastic holiday.

One of the best places to either hit the trails or take a cross-country skiing class near Ottawa is in Gatineau Park. Most of the areas mark their difficulty levels by colour, a practice that also describes if the trail is shared or in the back country. Many parts are hilly and require a day pass from park officials for admission.

In the neighbouring cities of Toronto and Montreal, there are also plenty of opportunities to indulge in the sport of cross-country skiing along miles of snowy trails scattered throughout parks and mountainous peaks.

Those visiting Toronto may wish to hook up with Trakkers, which is the resident cross-country skiing club that organizes excursions throughout the area. This February, for instance, the group will be journeying to the Blue Spruce Resort for a weekend of fun and thrilling winter sports. Guests can reserve a cottage through the organization and meet like-minded skiers on a fantastic holiday. The trips will take place in Algonquin and Arrowhead provincial parks, both of which are located close to the accommodations.

In the region of Montreal, there are many pretty paths to choose from for a day or more of cross-country skiing. The Out There website says that Mont Tremblant Provincial Park is the ideal place for all levels of skiers, with a trail that stretches for more than 90 kilometres through the pine trees and along the mountain base.

Cross-country skiers who decide to make a trip to these regions should make sure to dress especially warm. Some of the pathways can reach temperatures well below zero, so all travellers may want to equip themselves with cold weather gear suited for these types of environments. This will ensure that the holiday trip is safe and enjoyable for everyone.