4 Sweet Spots To Go Cross Country Skiing Near Invermere

Whether watching those first few snowflakes fall, or fully entrenched in the snowy season, winter gets ski enthusiasts excited about exploring new cross country ski trails in British Columbia. Finding fun things to do this winter in Invermere is a simple task, especially if you enjoy exploring local cross country skiing. When you’re ready to visit, grab your skis and poles (or find a rental) and visit these top Invermere trails to enjoy some of BC’s best cross-country ski trails:

Spot #1: Lake Windermere Whiteway

Named the world’s longest skating trail by Guinness World Records in 2014, the over 30-kilometre trail is also one of the top cross-country ski trails in BC. Maintained by Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, take on the entire Whiteway (if you dare) or try one of the four smaller loops: Rushmere, Indian Beach, Windermere and James Chabot. Regardless of what loop(s) you decide to tackle, expect exceptional Columbia Valley views with plenty of wide-open space for everyone to enjoy.

Be sure to visit the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club’s Facebook page for current conditions.

Spot #2: Lake Lillian Whiteway

Located just 10 minutes outside of Invermere, and midway between Invermere & Panorama Mountain Resort, the Lake Lillian Whiteway offers a three-kilometre classic and skate-style cross-country skiing trail for a peaceful afternoon tour. If you decide that you want to keep exploring, the Lake Windermere Whiteway mentioned above is just a few minutes’ drive away.

To access Lake Lillian Whiteway, turn west on Athalmer road from the lights at Highway 93/95 (towards Invermere). Cross the railway overpass and turn right on Panorama Drive/Toby Creek Road. The Lake Lillian parking lot is approximately 7km from the turn.

The Whiteway trails are maintained by Toby Creek Nordic Club – you can buy day passes and find further information on their website.

Spot #3: Westside Legacy Trail

The recently opened Westside Legacy Trail extends from Invermere to Fairmont Hot Springs. Twenty-five kilometres long, the trail includes three parking areas and seven picnic areas to stop and have a snack during your travels. Made up of seven segments, you can take on the entire cross-country ski trail or break out your approach for multiple days of Nordic skiing adventure.

Spot #4: Panorama Mountain Resort

Featuring 20 kilometres of regularly-groomed ski trails through the forest and along Toby Creek, the multi-use trail network at Panorama Mountain Resort is ideal for cross-country skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing. Several different route options and difficulties are available, and Mountain Outfitters offers classic and skate skiers an ideal spot to grab cross-country ski rentals for touring Panorama trails or exploring further afield.

Access to the trail network is provided from the Adventure Centre in the lower village or at Greywolf Golf Course – visit their website for more information, and grab tickets before you head out from guest services.

Of course, cross-country skiing is just one of many things to do in Invermere this winter so once you’re done exploring on skis, take a walk downtown, grab a bite to eat, or find more fun things to see and do!

Travel Safely

For more information about current travel status, please visit the Province of British Columbia’s web page detailing Travel Affected by COVID-19 as well as our Wide Open Spaces blog.