Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club

The Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club (Business Registration Number: 139342869RR0001) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and facilitating Nordic skiing and snowshoeing activities in the Kelowna region of British Columbia. The club operates a network of groomed trails and offers facilities to accommodate cross-country skiers and snowshoers of various skill levels.

Location and Facilities

Located in the foothills east of Kelowna along Highway 33, the club maintains approximately 75 kilometers of groomed and track-set trails specifically designed for both classic and skate skiing styles. The extensive trail network is situated in beautiful wooded areas, providing a natural and scenic environment for outdoor winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, the club supports over 80 kilometers of snowshoe trails which are dog-friendly, requiring leashes for pets[1][2][3].

Several rustic warming cabins equipped with toilets are available at the main trailhead and at various points along the trails, enhancing visitors' comfort during winter outings[2]. The club requires visitors to hold either an annual membership or a day pass to access the trails and facilities[1].

Activities and Community Engagement

The Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club organizes a range of activities including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and community events such as the annual Grooming Machine FUNdraiser, which supports trail maintenance and grooming efforts. These events promote community participation and raise funds to sustain the club's operations[1][4].

The club’s management emphasizes fiduciary responsibility and the sustainable stewardship of its facilities, illustrating a commitment to maintaining high-quality outdoor recreational opportunities for the region’s residents and visitors[1].

Membership and Access

Membership is open to individuals who wish to participate regularly in the club’s activities, but non-members can also access the trails through day passes. The club offers the possibility for non-members to arrange guided tours by emailing ahead, facilitating an inclusive introduction for newcomers to Nordic skiing and snowshoeing[2].

Significance

Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club plays a key role in the winter sports community of the Okanagan Valley by providing well-maintained Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails close to Kelowna. It complements other clubs in the region, such as the Telemark Nordic Club in West Kelowna and nearby Nordic facilities at Big White and Sovereign Lake, collectively contributing to over 250 kilometers of groomed trails in the area[2][3].

This nonprofit organization exemplifies the community-driven spirit of outdoor winter sports, offering a welcoming and sustainable environment for enthusiasts to engage in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

[1] https://www.kelownanordic.ca [2] https://www.tourismkelowna.com/things-to-do/seasonal-activities/winter/nordic-skiing/ [3] https://www.tourismkelowna.com/blog/post/a-guide-to-snowshoeing-in-kelowna/ [4] https://www.castanet.net/news/Making-Tracks/517693/Popular-Kelowna-ski-snowshoe-club-prepared-for-upcoming-winter-season [5] https://www.sovereignlake.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/SLNC-History-1st-ED-SEC.pdf