Fall is here and the St. Albert Nordic Ski club couldn’t be more anxious to see the snow finally fall.
The club, which introduced a number of new trails to Sturgeon County last winter, is hopeful more people will come try them out this season.
Those new trails were popular with members last season and club president, Laurie Hunt said the club is focused on improving what they offered last year and making sure everything is ready for when snow hits the ground.
“Last season was busy, so we increased our adult lessons, our youth lessons, and also the distance of our trials,” said Hunt. “We added new trails to the east of our current trails into Sturgeon County.
“We are working closely with Sturgeon County and the other stakeholders to make sure trails are ready to go again this winter.”
Another winter is another opportunity to expand the club’s registration. Hunt is hopeful to see cross-country skiing take its next step in the community.
“We hope [that our registration grows]. It's always great to have lots of people out cross-country skiing,” said Hunt. “I think there is a lot of interest in outdoor activities that people can do as a family.”
You don’t have to be an experienced skier to enjoy the trails. The club offers a variety of programs aimed at preparing both adults and youth for the real thing.
Those who are interested also don’t have to splurge on equipment to take part in those lessons, as the club provides rentals for people who want to give the sport a whirl.
“The kids in our youth programs, as part of the program fee, get a pair of skis and boots to use,” said Hunt. “Our adults who take lessons have the option to rent [equipment] for the duration of their lesson.”
As it currently stands, there isn’t a set date for when registration will open. Hunt said the club is in the process of recruiting new board members and will make a decision on that at a later date. The ski season itself will be a moving target as they are at the mercy of mother nature.
Cross-country skiing presents an intriguing possibility for families who are looking to get out and enjoy the winter weather this season, said communications director Laura Talboys, who talked about why she loves the sport.
“The appeal of it is that it’s outdoors, free if you have your own equipment, and just a lot of fun,” she said.
As mentioned, the club is currently on the hunt for board members. If cross-country skiing sounds intriguing, Hunt said the club will take all the help it can get.
“We are a non-profit, community-based club,” said Hunt. “We are looking for people that can support us and take a role on the board and also to volunteer and help out with all the activities that the club does.”
For more information, visit their website at https://www.stalbertnordic.com.
