Nordic skiing in Castlegar is some of the best in the Kootenays. If you like cross-country skiing, you should definitely check out our trails.
With an elevation range of 1300 to 1500 metres, the Paulson Cross Country Ski Trails offer one of the longest Nordic ski seasons in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia that lasts from November to April. And with over 60 kilometres of trails maintained by the Castlegar Nordic Ski Club, they’re also some of the longest in the area. The network ranges from easy, beginner trails to harder ones and they wind their way through mixed coniferous forests and open, sub-alpine zones that offer incredible views of the local mountains. Combine that with the four warming huts and the Paulson trails are the perfect outing for every family.
Further down in the valley, there are innumerable free areas in which to enjoy classic nordic skiing: from Millennium Park and the C&W Railway Trail to any number of logging roads.
Paulson Trails
Driving Access:
The Paulson recreation area is located about 32 km west of Castlegar on Highway 3. There are two trailheads: Glenmerry is the first one you come to and Mud Lake is a few hundred metres past that. The latter is where you’ll find the main Viking Centre warming hut.
Difficulty: Easy to Expert
Trails: 60km
Elevation Gain: 200m
Dog Friendly: No dogs are allowed on the trails
Facilities: Viking Centre Clubhouse & 4 warming shelters
Season: Mid-November to April
Millennium Park
Millennium Park offers 23 hectares of cross-country skiing in the winter. There are not any maintained trails here, but for classic skiers who like to roam beside the river and through the trees, this is an easy-to-access location that offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.
Directions
- From downtown Castlegar take 5th St to its terminus in the parking lot
Difficulty: Easy
Trails: The Millennium Walkway follows alongside the river for 1.8km
Groomed Trails: None
Elevation: 450m
Facilities: Washrooms
C&W Railway
This converted rail trail extends 162 kilometres from Castlegar to Midway and offers amazing views of the Lower Arrow Lake. There are no maintained trails here so this is only suitable for classic skiers.
Directions
From downtown Castlegar, drive Columbia Ave north to the intersection and turn left. (The other direction will take you over the Robson Bridge.) Follow this to the road’s terminus at the parking area and a locked gate.
Season:December to March
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 162 km
Elevation: 450m
Dog Friendly: Yes
Facilities: None