Both a commemoration of an turning point in Nordic history and a fun, family-oriented gathering, the 46th annual Birchleg cross country ski and snowshoe is set to take to the trails at the Tabor Mountain Recreation Area on Sunday.
In 1206, as civil war raged in Norway, two warriors known as Birkbeiners because they wrapped their legs in birchbark, rescued the infant prince and heir to the throne, carrying him by ski for 55 kilometres and over two mountain ranges in the dead of winter to a place of safety.
It has since become the subject of an iconic painting and a reason not only in Norway but across North America to hold a skiing race or event in honour of the dramatic flight every winter.
Don't worry, though - Prince George's version will be over a much shorter distance.
In the lead up, members of Hickory Wing Ski Touring Club will have set out a 10-kilometre track starting at the boxcar parking lot five kilometres east of the Tabour Mountain downhill ski area. Look for the balloons marking the turn off.
It all starts at 10 a.m. and the route typically takes 2 1/2 hours to cover, although there will be a cutoff that lowers the distance to six kilometres for those who want a shorter trip. The trail is suitable for classic technique only.
Coinciding with the ski, the Caledonia Ramblers will be hosting a snowshoe starting from the wildlife viewing area about four kilometres east of the boxcar, although the length of the walk will be somewhat longer.
To participate in that part of the day, meet at the city hall parking lot at 9 a.m. The carpool fee is $3.
Chili and drinks will be available by donation at the boxcar. The entire event will wrap up by 3 p.m.
For more information on the ski, call Norm at 250-963-7417 or Val at 250-564-8293. For more information on the snowshoe, call Maggie at 250-963-7497.
