On Friday March 24th, the Fernie Nordic Society, Teck, and Fernie Trails Alliance will be hosting a community cross country ski day.
The event will take place from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre in Mount Fernie Provincial Park.
The day’s events are open to guests of all ages but visitors are asked to leave their pets at home.
Guests are asked to RSVP online at Eventbrite.
In addition to cross country skiing, the day will include lessons, a caricature artist, barbeque, a s’more station, music, games, and guest speakers.
There will be three 20-minute beginner-friendly lessons that will start at 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30. Visitors who are interested in taking the lessons will meet at the Nordic Centre.
For individuals without skiing equipment, free rentals are available from Gearhub Sports and Quest Outdoor, courtesy of Teck.
Rentals must be booked in advance by Monday, March 20. Because sizing is limited, guests are encouraged to book soon and reservation is only available on a first come first serve basis.
Guests are responsible for their own equipment pick-up and drop-off, and a deposit will be necessary to take out the equipment.
Parking at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre will be limited. As such, free parking with shuttle access to the event will also be available at the Fernie Aquatic Centre and Fernie Memorial Arena.
Beyond promoting cross country skiing, the event aims to “celebrate responsible and sustainable recreation use of natural areas,” by featuring local grassroots organizations committed to the cause.