If you are looking for a way to play in the snow, keep fit, and get outside this winter, the Omineca Ski Club is a most excellent choice.

It is one of the oldest clubs in Canada, founded by our Scandinavian settlers in 1927 and features a breath-taking expanse of perfectly groomed trail just south of town on Hwy. 35. The rolling terrain that branches out from the central lodge and wax cabin offer a satisfying ski for all skiers.

The club offers new long distance routes up and over Spud Mountain, making it possible to plan a full day of skiing and not repeat a trail for up to 45 km.  At night, the 3 km lighted trail is a huge bonus for members who arrive after dark. For dog owners, the Dog Trail offers a magical opportunity where skier and dog can move together on a 3 km loop that also connects with longer trails on the Spud Mountain network.  For those who are into shooting and skiing, the newly upgraded biathlon range provides a world class experience. For you snowshoers out there, try out the specific snowshoe trails or head out on one of the many ski routes. Pine, spruce, and balsam forest make all of the trails a fresh and spectacular experience and our dedicated trail maintenance volunteers are vigilant in making sure trail conditions are remarkable.

With over 200 members, including dedicated volunteers, the ski club is a great place to be during the most magical season of the year. Children's programs such as Bunny Rabbits, Jack Rabbits and Track Attack give kids a chance to have fun on snow with their coaches and peers while learning the fundamentals of the sport. Our adult ski lessons start up in the New Year offering coaching to both beginner and intermediate level skiers.

This year we are fortunate to have funding for the TransAlta Gas/Ski-At-School Program. Coaches and grooming equipment will be brought to each school on a weekly basis to turn the school yards into ski playgrounds. We hope that cross country skiing will once again be a big part of the physical education curriculum.

In addiction our annual events include Racing Rocks (ski tournament for school aged children), the Lakes District Loppet (Family Ski Event with courses up to 50 km), St. Paddy's Day Poker Ski, the Easter Egg Hunt, the Candle Lit Valentine's Ski, and the Omineca Amazing Relay (a home grown, unique biathlon event).

Whether you are a complete novice to the sport or a seasoned veteran, Omineca Ski Club has something great for you. The season runs from the first good snowfall until the last patch of snow disappears in the spring.

Annual memberships, trail updates, up and coming events, and lodge and ski rental info are available on our website at www.ominecaskiclub.ca.  Our annual open house is coming up - look on page 18 of this issue of Lakes District 亚洲天堂 for more details.

Come early for the ski swap and any time throughout the day for early registration, lunch, and a gear purchase.

Looking forward to seeing you out here this winter.