Now that the Christmas festivities have passed, it's time to celebrate the outdoors for what it has to offer - namely, cross-country skiing.
On Jan. 8, Prince George residents are invited to join in on Ski Fest, an international day recognizing the sport with the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club. The club has been holding the event for decades.
The day is focused on fun, family and first-time skiers, with no trail fees at Otway
Nordic Centre.
"It's just to introduce people that have never been involved with cross-country skiing before, to give them an opportunity to come out and learn what it looks like," said Cloey Hooper, Ski Fest co-ordinator.
Classic ski rentals must be pre-booked and prepaid to ensure availability during three sessions: 9 to 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.
Hooper said that within the last five years, the event has exploded in popularity with the introduction of ski rentals at the nordic centre.
With the equipment getting booked up quickly, it's important for those who are
interested in renting to come out about a week prior to the event to get properly sized and reserve their boots and skis.
Throughout the day, there will be a variety of events, kicking off with a pancake breakfast between 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. for $5 per person. This includes pancakes, bacon or sausage, juice, coffee or tea.
Free lessons for novice classic skiers begins at 11:30, which Hooper said is the day's busiest time.
"We have probably 25 instructors that take groups of people out and show them what to do and how to go about it," she said.
There will also be wax demonstrations for classic and skate skis at 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., respectively. Those interested in snowshoeing can take in a demonstration and pick up some tips and tricks at 11 a.m.
After a morning session on the trails, skiers can warm up with a wiener roast and hot chocolate at the Gravel Pit between noon and 2 p.m. A hot dog and drink will
cost $2.50.
If you still have energy to burn, meet outside the rental shop at noon for ski trail tours of Pine Flats.
"Come out and have fun," Hooper said. "We have a lot of volunteers to come out and help people, so it's a great day."
Those looking for more information can call Cloey Hooper at 250-612-3948 or visit caledonianordic.com.
