It is unfortunate the fabulous ski conditions that existed a week ago are not quite what they were but snowshoeing is a great alternative. If you are a little nervous about tramping off into unknown territory the snowshoe or walking trails at Southstar are a great alternative.
Located at the base of Cranbrook Mountain south of Cranbrook there are the designated trails of South Star Recreation Area for those who wish to snowshoe, cross country ski or walk their dog. Each trail is clearly marked and the cross-country ski trails are extensive. From Highway 3 travel south on Victoria Avenue which turns into Gold Creek Road. Turn right off Gold Creek Road onto 38th Avenue. The parking area is at the very end of 38th Avenue.
The cross country ski trails are tracked/set and require maintenance. Trails are clearly marked as to to their designated activity. All visitors are therefore expected to respect trail courtesy and etiquette by using the designated trails for their chosen activity. It is very frustrating to ski on an unnecessarily spoiled groomed trails and can be dangerous too. Kootenay Nordic Outdoor Club has been instrumental in the development and maintenance of these trails and members volunteer their time. Planning and design is a joint effort between the Forest Service and Kootenay Nordic.
Information, membership and suggested donation box is positioned at the entrance to the trails. Anyone may use the trails but donations towards upkeep are always welcome.
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| Snowshoe trail, Cranbrook Mountain in the distance |
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| walkers carefully avoiding the ski tracks |
It's too bad nobody cares about these trails when it isn't ski season! Terrible abuse by off-road vehicles and dirt bikes.
ReplyDeleteSimilar problems in the Crowsnest Pass, if only those on ATV's knew what problems they create. Glad we have an excellent groomer here that can make it ski-able
ReplyDeleteyes it may 2013 and there were motor bikes on the trails of easy street...not impressed
ReplyDeleteJust a reminder to the Anonymous comment that recently came in to this old posting. Anonymous comments are no longer accepted (as of Jan 1st 2014) - they must be signed with a legal verifiable name.
ReplyDeleteSouth Star has been pretty good this year especially if you consider the small amount of snow this winter, at least until recently. The trails were obviously worked on last summer or they wouldn't be as skiable as they are with only a modest amount of snow. Congratulations to the Kootenay Nordic Outdoor Club.
ReplyDeleteGerry Warner