Cross-country skiing in Vernon offers a range of trails close to the city for every level of skier, from rolling terrain to steeper climbs that challenge your stamina. This guide highlights some of the top routes in the area, including those with the most elevation gain and longest distances. If you’re looking for a scenic glide or a heart-pumping workout, then these trails provide a mix of beautiful views and rewarding climbs, making them ideal for skiers who want to conquer some of Vernon’s best routes.
Grey Canal Trail: Boss Creek – The Most Elevation Gain
For those who want to tackle the trail with the most elevation gain, the Grey Canal Trail: Boss Creek route is the one to take. With an ascent of 356 metres over 5.8 km, this out-and-back trail is considered moderately challenging and will take an average of 2 hours and 16 minutes to complete. Skiers enjoy a mix of forested sections and sweeping views over East Vernon, Okanagan Lake, and Kalamalka Lake. Boss Creek is part of the newer additions to the Grey Canal Trail network, offering a quieter route where you're unlikely to encounter many other people.
The trail is well-marked, but it's important to stay aware of the private driveways and gates along the way. Parking is available at various points, including Welker Rd, De Roo Rd, and Boss Creek Rd.
Grey Canal Trail: Turtle Mountain – The Next Challenge
Next in line for elevation gain is the Grey Canal Trail: Turtle Mountain, which climbs 198 metres over its 6.9-km stretch. This trail offers a balance between moderate climbs and flatter sections, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a varied workout. It takes just under 2 hours to complete and is also a popular route for birdwatching and mountain biking.
Starting at Turtle Mountain Blvd, the trail heads both west and east, giving skiers views of Okanagan Lake, Mission Hill, and Terrace Mountain to the west, while to the east, skiers can enjoy views of Swan Lake and Silver Star Mountain. The former Grey Canal irrigation system is still visible along the route, adding an interesting historical element to the skiing experience. The boardwalks that run alongside ancient lava flow walls provide a unique contrast to the surrounding natural landscape.
Grey Canal Trail: Bella Vista – The Longest Route
If distance is more your style, the Grey Canal Trail: Bella Vista is the longest cross-country route in the Vernon area. Stretching 10.8 km, this out-and-back trail takes about 2 hours and 27 minutes to complete and features gentle, rolling terrain perfect for skiers looking for a longer, less intense outing. The trail runs past orchards, vineyards, and grasslands, offering views of Okanagan Lake and Bluenose Mountain.
Bella Vista is a popular trail for its peaceful atmosphere and quiet surroundings. Although the trail is longer, the relatively easy terrain makes it accessible for skiers of varying abilities.
BX Creek Trail – A Shaded Option
BX Creek Trail offers a mix of beautiful creek views and forest cover, making it a great option for those looking for a more shaded skiing experience. At 5.8 km, this trail follows the creek and is moderately challenging taking about 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. Steep stairs and tree roots can make sections tricky, but for those up for the challenge, it’s a rewarding ski through a serene environment. It is a great option in the winter when the creek adds a different element to the snowy landscape.
Kal Crystal Waters Short Loop – An Easier Option
For a looped trail that offers variety, the Kal Crystal Waters Short Loop is an 8.5-km option that typically takes around 2 hours to complete. This moderately challenging trail follows the west side of Kalamalka Lake and includes portions of the Okanagan Rail Trail. The combination of rail trails and abandoned highways offers a unique ski experience, mixing smooth paths with occasional, more rugged sections.
Skiers can extend the route into a longer 24-km loop, which starts at Greater Vernon Athletic Park and returns via the Okanagan Rail Trail, making it an excellent option for those looking to push their endurance.
The Okanagan Rail Trail - Vernon to Oyama
The Okanagan Rail Trail from Vernon to Oyama is a 16.9-km point-to-point route that takes about 3 hours to complete. It’s considered an easy trail and is popular for cross-country skiing. The route follows the shoreline of Kalamalka Lake, offering views of the lake’s striking blue and green hues, as well as steep cliffs with a distinct orange and rust colouring. The trail continues south to Lake Country and can be extended by looping around Wood Lake via the Okanagan Rail Trail on the east side and Pelmewash Way on the west. Despite its popularity, skiers can still find moments of quiet along the trail during less busy times.
Grey Canal Trail: Foothills – A Steady Ski with Scenic Views
Rounding out the top cross-country skiing options in Vernon is the Grey Canal Trail: Foothills. This 6.6-km out-and-back trail is generally considered easy and takes about 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete. With steady terrain and views of the surrounding hills and valleys, this route is great for those looking for a more relaxed skiing experience while still enjoying time outdoors. The Foothills trail is accessible and suitable for skiers who prefer a less demanding path.
Optional Destinations:
When you want to get away from the city or there may not be enough snow you can head to the mountain area which is only 20 minutes away. SilverStar Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre offer some of the best cross-country skiing in Canada, making them top destinations for skiers of all levels. Together, they boast over 105 km of daily groomed trails, providing a mix of beginner-friendly loops and challenging routes for advanced skiers. SilverStar’s scenic trails are perfect for those looking to combine skiing with a vibrant village atmosphere, while Sovereign Lake’s expansive network attracts both recreational skiers and elite athletes. With reliable snow conditions from November through May and professional coaching programs, both locations offer a world-class skiing experience in a supportive community environment.
Conclusion
Vernon’s cross-country skiing trails offer something for everyone, whether you’re chasing elevation, distance, or a peaceful escape in nature. From the challenging climbs of Boss Creek to the longer, scenic stretches of Bella Vista, these routes allow skiers to experience the best of Vernon’s winter landscapes. With trails open year-round and options for all skill levels, Vernon is the perfect destination for those looking to conquer new cross-country challenges.
