Jeremy Derksen for #SkiNorthAB
Although you can still see the town of Lac La Biche in the distance if you squint carefully, Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park is separated from the town’s daily bustle – if you can call it that. And that is the key to its appeal: once you cross the bridge to the island, you are disconnected both literally and figuratively.
No traffic, few if any people, and absolute quiet. It’s the perfect place to discover – or bask in – the meditative potential of nordic skiing.
Skiing in Lac La Biche is pure magic. Don’t believe us? Check out this great story on SnowSeekers: https://www.snowseekers.ca/story/lac-la-biche-ski-magic
For a Nordic skiing vacation spot that’s easy on the budget, relaxing and comfortable and connected by well-maintained trails, Lac La Biche is the spot.
And here’s a three-step formula for success:
1. Book a cozy cabin at the provincial park
You can stay right on the island, with 10 nicely appointed cabins available within Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park for only $100/night in winter season. Cabins sleep up to eight, and in some cabins dogs are allowed.
2. Choose your commute
The two main trail networks are on the island at SWCPP, and out at Shaw Lake, about 20 minutes from town (and equally beautiful and remote). The latter has a mid-station chalet with firewood for warming up on a longer ski day. Or you can break your own trail…
3. Dig into some apres
Nordic skiing burns some serious calories, so it’s always good to remember to refuel after an outing. Fat Unicorn Brewing Company just opened the doors of its new brewery and restaurant location in Lac La Biche. The Siberian Dumplings with an Imperial Cossack Stout is a killer combo.
In fact, there are tons of great cross-country skiing and winter activities spread across northern Alberta, connecting Lac La Biche, and on to Bonnyville/Cold Lake, and Vermilion as well. Pack your skis and make a nordic road trip out of it. For more inspiration check out SnowSeekers’ #SkiNorthAB page.
When You Go
Lac La Biche County will help you plan a #SkiNorthAB adventure you won’t forget.
Toques off to friends at the Lakeland Cross Country Ski Club, out maintaining the trails; keepers of the Lac La Biche cross country ski magic. Consider a membership or make a donation to support their work grooming Alberta’s cross country ski island.
Skiing in Lac La Biche is pure magic. Don’t believe us? Check out this great story on SnowSeekers: https://www.snowseekers.ca/story/lac-la-biche-ski-magic
Learn more about what Northern Alberta has in store for you this winter by visiting the #SkiNorthAB page, where more stories and videos will be coming out all season long.