We’re preparing to mark a major milestone: 50 years of the Hinton Nordic Skiers!
HNS 50th Anniversary Events
February 7: Come Join the Jackrabbits!
When: Saturday, February 7. 11:30-1:00
Who: Children old enough to walk on skis up to age 10. Adults are welcome to join!
Where: Hinton Nordic Centre
Cost: Free
Description: Jackrabbits is a fun, supportive ski program for kids that helps build skills, confidence, and the love for cross country skiing. Join us on this day just to give it a try! Free ski rentals will be available at the Nordic Centre all day on Saturday, first come, first served! Thanks to our friends at Vicious Cycle and Snow for offering this service!
February 7: Biathlon, Try-a-Biathlon!
When: Saturday, February 7. 12:30-4:30
Who: Anyone of any age! The timing of this event overlaps with Jackrabbits, so children trying out Jackrabbits can bring a lunch and stay to try biathlon!
Where: Hinton Nordic Centre
Cost: Free
Description: Have you ever watched the Winter Olympics and thought: “Hey, I could do that!” Today, that dream comes true! Everyone of any age is welcome to give biathlon a shot at the Nordic Centre at this event. We’ll use EcoAim optical rifles – safe, quiet, and no live ammunition. Free ski rentals will be available at the Nordic Centre all day on Saturday, first come, first served! Thanks to our friends at Vicious Cycle and Snow for offering this service!
February 8 (12-3 pm): Snacks, Smokies and Ski
The Camp 29/Spruce Management trails are located 24 kilometres from Hinton beginning at the intersection of the Willow Creek Road and East River Road. Travel 7 kilometres up the Willow Creek Road to the turnoff to the Peppers Lake and travel west for 3 kilometres on the Peppers Lake Road to the Fish Creek Road. Drive north on the Fish Creek Road for another 12 kilometres to the turnoff to the ski trails. Turn left and drive 2 kilometres on the access road to the Ski Trail parking lot. Total distance travelled 24 kilometres. There are green signs showing the route to the Spruce Management Trails located at the Peppers Lake intersection, Fish Creek intersection and access to the parking lot.
The festivities will be held adjacent to the parking lot. There is a picnic table, fire ring and outhouse located there for your convenience. Sitting is limited, please bring lawn chairs to sit on while enjoying the refreshments provided by your hosts. Over the past few years additional trails have been developed on the plateau that are mostly flat and perfect for individuals wanting a more layback ski outing. For individuals that want more of a challenge there is the valley loop to enjoy. On the trails there is Chaos Corner and Bus Stop both with benches and fire pits. Looking forward to you coming to our Camp 29 50th celebrations, historic trails originally developed in the early 1980’s by St. Regis for use by the Hinton Nordic Skiers. The trails are currently being maintained by West Fraser as part of their commitment to outdoor recreation on the Forest Management Agreement Area.
February 10th (12-3 pm): Joachim Valley Ski Day
Park at the Jarvis Lake Campground Parking Lot and begin your ski at the Joachim Valley Trailhead.
Ski four kilometres to the Hannington Hut in Joachim Valley while enjoying the inspiring vistas on the flat easy trail. The trail is well marked on your way to the cabin. Check out the airplane wreck used by Canada’s Search and Rescue as part of their training. After the airplane it is only 300 metres to the cabin. The cabin is located on a low ridge with a fabulous view of the Canadian Rockies off in the distance. The cabin will be heated for skiers or sit outside on the deck or bench and enjoy the warmth of the afternoon sun. Other amenities include a picnic table, fire pit and outhouse. Refreshments will be provided by your hosts. Enjoy your ski out once you have had the opportunity to be part of Hinton Nordic Skiers 50th Anniversary celebration in Joachim Valley.
Volunteers belonging to Friends of Switzer Park set the ski trails in conjunction with Alberta Parks. Friends of Switzer Park through their dedicated volunteering activities inside Switzer Park were instrumental in providing funds in building the Hannington Hut. The hut has become a premier destination spot for outdoor enthusiasts experiencing Switzer Park throughout the year.
February 12: New Cabin Night Ski
When: Thursday, February 12th, meet at 6:45 PM
Who: Darkness-loving skiers!
Where: Meet at the K-9 (Upper) Parking Lot at the Hinton Nordic Centre
Cost: Free
Description:
Enjoy the Nordic Centre after dark! Make sure you bring your headlamp to this group night ski in celebration of our new cabin on the K-9 loop. After a ski in the sparkle and mystery of the dark ski trails, you’ll enjoy wine and cheese in the new cabin! Join us if you love night skiing, or if you’ve never tried it before: this is the perfect chance!
February 14: Retro Chili Loppet
When: Saturday, February 14th. Race start at 11:00
Who: All skiers of all abilities!
Where: Hinton Nordic Centre
Cost: Free, pre-register to make sure you get chili!
Description: It’s time to bust out the wooden skis and sideburns: we’re taking it back to the 70s! Our beloved Chili Loppet returns this year with a retro twist. Come ready to race at 11:00 AM. You’ll be able to choose a course length that suits your stamina and you’ll keep track of your own time in this casual loppet. All ages and stages are welcome. After the ski, enjoy free chili and snacks before you go for another glide! And yes: if you have a retro ski outfit reminiscent of the 1970s, 80s, or 90s, we want to see you wearing it! Free ski rentals will be available at the Nordic Centre all day on Saturday, first come, first served! Thanks to our friends at Vicious Cycle and Snow for offering this service!
February 14: 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner
When: Saturday, February 14th. Drinks at 5:00 PM, dinner at 6:00
Who: People who want to celebrate the past and future of our Nordic Ski club!
Where: Hinton Golf Course
Cost: $20/adult, $10/ages 6-12, 5 and under free
Description: After a week of skiing, it’s time to celebrate! The Hinton Nordic Skiers has been going strong for 50 years thanks to the passionate efforts of community volunteers. Whether you’ve been involved with the ski club for one year or 50, join us to raise a glass to this community milestone! Tickets are available, cash only, at Vicious Cycle and Snow, Canadian Tire Automotive Department, and Maximum Outfitters, Valley location. Feeling digital? Email hintonnordicskiers50@gmail.com to e-transfer!
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