Canmore's Nordic Centre the place to be this winter

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Crystal Globe final a first in North America


Get ready to enjoy winter in Canmore!
Photo by Alberta Parks

LEIGH McADAM

CANMORE - Mark your calendars. The world-famous Canmore Nordic Centre will play host to a prestigious world championship final in March – a first-time event in North America.

Used as a venue for biathlon and cross-country skiing in the 1988 Winter Olympics, it will be the site of the final race on the Nordic Ski World Cup circuit from March 7– 12. Never before has the FIS World Cup had a finish in North America with the winner taking home the coveted Crystal Globe.

Cheer on Team Canada as they take on the world in Canmore. The event part of the 45-day long Canmore Winter Carnival

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Talk about an exciting time to be in Canmore.

Sara Renner, Olympic medalist and Canmore resident, knows first-hand about excitement that goes along with this event.

“There’s something magical about high-level sport. This is a unique Canadian experience that you and your kids will remember forever.”

Being part of the thrill of a live World Cup race is definitely a reason to visit Canmore. With loads of extra activities planned from Feb. 1 to March 13, it’s one of the best reasons to head to the mountain town this year.

Here are some of the activities to look forward to:

  • Be a part of the community art walk. Start at the Canmore Civic Centre Plaza and walk 2.8 kilometres up to the Nordic Centre, about an hour before the race. You’ll pass eight temporary art installations along the route and the walk itself will be led by an artist.

  • Food trucks will be all around the Nordic Centre food, offering a delectable line-up of goodies. French crepes anyone?

  • A Night Sky Village is planned for March 11. Watch for details.

  • In town apart from the award ceremonies, look for perennial favourites like ice carving and skating parties held during the Canmore Winter Festival. There is an incredible line-up of events with something happening every day for 45 days.

Cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre

Not only can you watch world-class athletes slide along the trails, you can also get in on the action. With more than 65 kilometres of groomed and natural cross-country ski trails, the Canmore Nordic Centre is a superb destination for skate and classic skiers of all abilities.


Canmore is home to some amazing views.
Photo by Leigh McAdam

“They’re so convenient and accessible and the trails here give you the most bang for your buck,” says Renner, who uses them about three times a week. “In just 90 minutes you can get a great workout and five minutes later be in town, still in your ski boots having the best meal of your life at Crazyweed.”

Her favourite route is to head up from the stadium to the top of the hills and continue west as far as you can go. 

If you go:

Tickets can be purchased at the Nordic Centre between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you come later, the skiing is free on the 6.5 kilometres of night-lit trails. Ski rentals are available on site and a waxing room is open to the public for free.

  • Plan your stay during the final Ski Tour Canada stop and the Canmore Winter Carnival
  • Start planning your trip to Canmore for Ski Tour Canada.
  • Headed to see the Ski Tour Canada races in Canmore or know anyone who wants see watch the action? Share this page.