CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK
Cross-country skiing in Banff National Park is one of the best ways to explore Banff in the winter. Join us for an unforgettable outdoor experience for the whole family. We offer both cross-country ski tours in Banff and Lake Louise and cross-country ski lessons for beginners to intermediate-level nordic skiers. Let us glide you through some of the world’s most beautiful mountain scenery with this incredible winter activity suited for everyone.
TWO HOUR CROSS-COUNTRY SKI TOUR INCLUDES:
- All the equipment! Skis, poles and boots
- The fundamental skills to get you the confidence to glide in minutes
- A local, CANSI certified, professional and energetic guide
- Plenty of stops for those epic Instagram spots
- Warm drinks and fresh, home made snacks to keep you energized
No experience required. This tour is excellent for beginners or those new to the sport. Skiers are guided on green-rated cross-country ski trails suited to their skill ability and are given all the tools to venture out on their own adventure next time.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR CROSS-COUNTRY SKI TOUR:
- Warm socks, hand and toe warmers if you tend to get cold toes
- Warm, full fingered gloves or mitts
- Active snow pants & Winter Jackets are essential in any temperatures below zero. Gear can be rented from stores in Banff such as Snowtips-Bactrax.
- Dress in thin layers in order to be mobile and remove if necessary – XC skiing is known to work up a sweat!
- A backpack with hot water and room to store layers
- A couple of neck warmers such as a buff or a face covering
Please note that safety is our first priority. If the guide thinks your attire or footwear isn’t appropriate and compromises your safety on the tour, you may not be able to participate.
BOOKING TERMS:
- The minimum age is 12 years
- All adults must sign a waiver, which will be sent through upon booking.
- A waiver must also be completed by the parent or legal guardian of any child under the age of 18 years
- Please note that this tour requires a minimum of 2 participants
- Private sessions or tours from 1 to 24 skiers available – contact us directly at info@bikescape.ca to inquire or to book
587-205-8356
info@bikescape.ca
Email or call us for help with any questions
How long is the tour?
The tour begins at 10:00am and returns at no later than 12:15pm. (2 hours total)
Where do I park?
In Banff, you can park for free at the Spray River Trailhead – Map link here. Then walk 5 mins down to the rental shop.
In Lake Louise, your guide meet you at Wilson's and will direct you to with the Bow River Campground Loop or Great Divide Trailhead.
What is cross country skiing?
Cross-country skiing is a form of skiing where skiers rely on their own locomotion to move across snow-covered terrain, rather than using ski lifts or other forms of assistance. Cross-country skiing is widely practiced as a sport and recreational activity and is much more active and accessible than downhill skiing or snowboarding.
What equipment is provided?
Waxless cross-country skis, boots and poles are provided.
Do I need to have experience cross country skiing for this tour?
This tour is suitable for beginners. You should be physically fit enough to walk up and down a few hills, and walk at a comfortable pace for three kilometres. The first part of the tour is a mini skills session to get you gliding on your own in minutes!
What should I wear/bring?
Please be prepared for the mountain weather, it changes quickly and our winter tours run in anything from -27C (-4F) to +10C (+50F). Wind chill can change the temperature dramatically and you will be outside for the duration of your tour. See packing list below:
- Warm socks, and hand and toe warmers if you tend to get cold toes.
- Warm, full-fingered gloves or mitts.
- Snow pants & Winter Jackets are essential in any temperatures below zero. Gear can be rented from stores in Banff such as Snowtips-Bactrax.
- Dress in thin layers in order to be mobile and remove if necessary – XC skiing is known to work up a sweat!
- A backpack with hot water and room to store layers.
- A couple of neck warmers such as a buff or a face covering.
Is the tour canceled if it is too cold?
If the temperature goes below -20 degrees celsius then we will not run the tour and we can reschedule your booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Bookings are guaranteed once payment has been received. Cancellations for sessions or tours occurring more than 7 days prior to session start date are 100% refundable, minus a 5% admin fee. Cancellations occurring between 7-3 days prior to session start date are refundable at 50% and any cancellations within 72 hours are non refundable. Any refunds for payments made by credit card are refunded minus a 5% admin fee. Any cancellations based on weather conditions are at the sole discretion of Bikescape. If the tour is canceled by Bikescape, you will be issued a 100% refund of tour cost.
Should I tip my guide?
Tips are not expected, but are certainly appreciated. If you think your totally rad guide did an exceptional job and would like to indicate that with a tip, it will be graciously accepted with cash or e-transfer at the end of your session.
