Wednesday 23 January 2013

Great Cross Country Skiing at Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre near Vernon, B.C.




By Keith and Heather Nicol
      We just wrapped up a great 7 days of cross country skiing at Sovereign Lake Nordic Ski Club and Silver Star Resort which are located just outside Vernon in B.C.’s Okanagan Valley. The weather from January 15-22, 2013 was superb with sun on most days and highs just above freezing.  We could see the Monashee Mountain Range in the distance and the ever present valley cloud layer really added to the visual appeal. The main focus of our trip was to take in the CANSI (Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors) National Seminar at Silver Star Resort but we arrived a few days early to try the trail system at Sovereign Lake which is located right next to Silver Star. Between them they have over 100 km of trails and you can get an individual pass or get one that allows you to ski both trail systems.  This area is also known for its early snow and is the site of popular early season cross country ski camps. Already by mid-January,2013 they had a base of 2 meters of snow!  At Sovereign Lake we skied the Carl Wylie trail and Silver Queen trails. Both pass by the Black Prince Cabin which a nice place to stop a rest or have a snack. We really liked the wide trails and skiing through the tall trees laden with snow.  Back at the main lodge everyone was relaxing and chatting and we enjoyed the friendly atmosphere. 
Black Prince Cabin at Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre
         On one day we skied with Kathy Wylie who has been involved with the club for many years and she told us that the club latest big event was hosting the 2011 World Masters. “In addition to over 50 km of cross country ski trails, we also have 12 km of backcountry trails which aren’t groomed as well as 14 km of snowshoe trails. We even have a dog trail so people and their dog can get some exercise. ” She told us. But what we were really amazed was the club’s membership which is a staggering 1600 plus members. She said it is the largest club in B.C.  They also have many well developed programmes for children and adults. For more information see www.sovereignlake.com or phone 250-558-3036. 
Heading back to the main lodge

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