5 Chariot-Friendly XC Ski Trails in and around the Bow Valley

I still remember the first time I went cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre with my now-husband, Chris. As the true Canmoron he is, he shuffled side-to-side uphill on his skate skis with extreme coordination, finesse and grace. He made it look like a piece of cake! I thought I’d have no trouble following his lead; Then, I took my first glide…

Fast-forward a few years: Now, I’m the one rallying the troops to go cross-country skiing. I can’t say I do it at all well, but I love the feel of the fresh tracks, the cold air and the adrenaline rush I get racing down the slightest of downhills. Add Indy in the chariot to the mix, and we’ve got ourselves a nordic party! 

In all honesty: Cross-country skiing with my son in the chariot has become my favourite winter pastime!

Yes, it’s more weight strapped onto you as you tackle the uphills (heck, sometimes it makes the flats feel like uphills), but it’s not as daunting as you would think. It’s 100% do-able… Just a sweatier workout!

And yes, it’s nerve-racking towing your baby when you are/feel like a total newb, but it’s really quite safe. Just make sure they’re strapped in tightly and dressed warmly, and they will most likely stay upright and content (perhaps doze off?) even if you take a few spills. 

We are so blessed to have well-maintained ski trails with epic views in and around the Bow Valley! The following is a list of my favourites to bring Indy on. What’s best: They’re all double track-set and include a skating lane, so you can take your pick of skinny skis.

• Spray River West

Area: Banff, AB

Distance: 11.2 km out-and-back (to Spray River bridge)

Nice and close! This trail starts on the eastern end of the parking lot to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. It’s got a little bit of up-and-down as you ski along the rolling terrain, both gaining 105 meters and losing 70 meters. It connects all the way to Canmore on what becomes the Goat Creek Trail. Nonetheless, the Spray River bridge makes a great (and closer!) destination in itself. It features beautiful views up the valley, and has a little shelter with a bench to take a break on.

• Cascade Valley

Area: Banff, AB

Distance: 12.6 km out-and-back (to Cascade River bridge)

This trailhead is located adjacent to the Lake Minnewanka parking lot. Although it starts with a gentle, curvy downhill, don’t be fooled! It becomes more of an uphill grind en route to the Cascade River bridge, with a 135 meter elevation gain. Nonetheless, it’s pretty quick and painless! The CR6 backcountry campground is located just across the bridge, and has a fire pit surrounded by benches (as well as a picnic table!) for you and your baby to enjoy some snacks at.

• Moraine Lake Road

Area: Lake Louise, AB

Distance: 15.6 km out-and-back

A scenic ski indeed! The Moraine Lake Road is closed seasonally, but you access the ski trails from the turn-off for the road. The parking area is limited, and roadside parking along Lake Louise Drive is not permitted, so you’re best to be there early! It is a long uphill with 250 meters worth of elevation gain in total. In addition, it crosses several avalanche paths beyond the viewpoint. For these reasons, I highly suggest stopping beforehand. Spread out a waterproof blanket and let your baby stretch their legs, before making your return. You’ll still feel that blast of exercise and enjoy splendid views even if you cut your ski short. The way back is breezy!

• Great Divide

Area: Lake Louise, AB

Distance: 20 km out-and-back

This is a great alternative if the parking lot for Moraine Lake Road is full. Simply drive further up Lake Louise Drive, and you may have better chances of finding a spot at the Great Divide trailhead. Unlike the other trails, this one is gently downhill on the way out… But don’t fret: It’s only a 60-meter elevation loss. If your heart desires (and your baby cooperates!), you can ski all the way to the Alberta/British Columbia border and beyond - to the Lake O’Hara parking lot. I suggest bringing a waterproof blanket for a makeshift rest stop, as there is no infrastructure along this trail.

• Watridge Lake

Area: Spray Valley Provincial Park, AB

Distance: 7.4 km out-and-back

A quickie, but a goodie! Drive along the Smith-Dorrien/Spray highway, take a right at Mount Engadine Lodge and continue down that road until you come to the Mount Shark Day Use Area parking lot. Strap on your skis and chariot, and hit the wide open trail to Watridge Lake. Although there are a few hilly sections, it is mostly flat; That said, the turn-off to the lake is short, but steep!… Keep in mind that you can walk it if you feel uneasy. The views are worth the visit!

These cross-country ski trails are accessible to all skill levels. Trust me: If I’ve skied at least a few kilometres on them, you can too!