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 Ravine
  • Capilano Park
  • Gold Bar Park
  • Goldstick Park
  • Northeast River Valley Park
  • Kinsmen Park
  • Riverside Golf Course
  • Sir Wilfrid 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 Ravine and Northeast River Valley Park 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.

Learn How to Cross-Country Ski

The City of Edmonton offers learn to ski classes in January-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. Find them under Registered Programs, Outdoor Recreation Programs, Adult Learn to Cross-Country Ski.  

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.

Métis Crossing / 150 km northeast of Edmonton / If you’re looking to travel a bit further, Métis Crossing now offers groomed cross-country trails. Round out your après ski experience at the Cultural Gathering Centre with a warm drink or lunch.