Cross-country skiing in Vernon offers more than just a workout—it’s an experience that combines the rhythm of nature with the thrill of exploration. Here's a look into the top cross-country destinations in the Vernon area, focusing on SilverStar Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake. With over 105 km of groomed trails, these two venues offer some of the best skiing in Canada. Whether you’re chasing personal records or simply enjoying the glide, the trails at SilverStar and Sovereign Lake cater to skiers of all levels.
SilverStar’s Cross-Country Trails: From Beginner to Expert
SilverStar Mountain Resort on the Monashee Mountain range is a favourite among Nordic skiers for a reason. With over 55 km of trails, SilverStar offers something for every type of skier. Beginners can ease into the sport on gentle green trails near the village, while more experienced skiers can challenge themselves on blue and black-rated routes that offer more demanding terrain. The trails are multi-use, meaning you’ll also see snowshoers and dog walkers enjoying the area.
SilverStar is also known for its night skiing, with a designated night loop that allows skiers to enjoy the trails after dark. The trails are impeccably groomed, and the snow is consistent throughout the season, thanks to the area's high elevation. For those looking to make a day of it, the warming huts located along the trails are the perfect spots to take a break, enjoy a packed lunch, or simply warm up before heading back out.
Sovereign Lake: Canada’s Largest XC Ski Network
Operating within SilverStar Provincial Park and just a short glide is Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre, home to Canada’s largest daily-groomed trail network. With over 50 km of additional trails, Sovereign Lake complements SilverStar’s offering, making the Vernon area a go-to destination for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Sovereign Lake is more than just a recreational site—it’s a training ground for Olympians and hosts several high-level competitions throughout the year.
For those looking to take on a longer challenge, the 35 km Beowulf trail is a must-try. This loop is a mix of ridgelines, meadows, and forests, offering a full exploration of the area’s varied terrain. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful ski or training for a marathon, Sovereign Lake has everything you need, with world-class grooming to ensure you’re always skiing on the best conditions.
Additional Perks
The ambiance of a sunset ski at SilverStar is hard to beat. As the day winds down, the golden light stretches across the snow-covered trails, adding a sense of calm and beauty to your glide. The convenience of the village adds to the overall experience, with everything you need just a short ski or walk away. After the sunset, you can easily head back into the village for a warm drink, or relax in a hot tub before enjoying a hearty meal at one of the local restaurants. With accommodations, dining, and gear shops all close by, SilverStar’s village makes it easy to enjoy both the adventure and the comfort of your time on the mountain.
Rental Options
SilverStar Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre offer convenient rental options for skiers of all levels. Whether you're a first-time skier or a seasoned pro, both locations provide high-quality cross-country ski gear, including classic and skate skis, poles, and boots. The rental process is simple, and the staff is on hand to ensure you get the right equipment for your ability and the day’s conditions. Renting is ideal for those who want to try out the sport or don’t have their own gear. With a well-maintained selection of equipment, you’ll be fully equipped to enjoy a smooth experience on the trails.
Lessons and Programs
SilverStar Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre are known for offering Canada’s most established cross-country ski improvement camps, tailored for all abilities and fitness levels. These supercamps provide a comprehensive training experience across 105 km of groomed trails, ideal for both competitive racers and first-time skiers. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your technique or just starting out, these camps provide professional coaching, expert grooming, and some of the best early-season snow in the country, making it the perfect setting to push your limits or simply enjoy the sport.
The coaches are among the best in the country, bringing years of experience and a passion for cross-country skiing to every session. Many are award-winning professionals who work with skiers of all levels, ensuring that each participant reaches their personal best. Along with technical training, the coaches focus on helping participants build confidence and improve fitness, making the camp an excellent learning experience.
The facilities at SilverStar and Sovereign Lake create the ideal environment for cross-country training. With well-maintained trails, legendary snow quality, and diverse terrain suitable for all levels, the camps provide a high-quality experience.
A Thriving Nordic Community
SilverStar and Sovereign Lake have a sense of community that surrounds the trails. Olympians like Anna Sellers and Kikkan Randall frequently train here, adding a unique element to the experience. The long season—November through May—makes these venues a prime spot for both recreational skiers and competitive athletes.
Events like the Sovereign2SilverStar Ski Marathon (S2S) highlight the social and competitive aspects of the Nordic scene in Vernon, with skiers of all levels joining in. It is a major event in Vernon’s cross-country skiing season, taking place over two days in early April. Skiers race from Sovereign Lake to SilverStar’s Main Street, with the option to choose between 40 km or 21 km distances in both classic and skate skiing styles. The event is inclusive, welcoming elite athletes aiming for top times as well as recreational skiers looking for a fun challenge. With its “point to party” vibe, S2S offers both competition and a celebratory atmosphere, ending in SilverStar Village where participants are greeted with a festive finish.
This combination of world-class trails, a passionate community, and a long skiing season makes Vernon a standout destination for cross-country skiing. Whether you’re gliding through a quiet forest or pushing yourself on a challenging trail, the cross-country routes in this area are built to provide both enjoyment and achievement for skiers of all levels.
