There’s no snow yet, but the 99 Mile ski

lodge was hopping last weekend with people wanting to know more about cross-country ski opportunities in the South Cariboo.

100 Mile Nordics Club members were on hand all day, showing off their beautiful hand-hewn log facility, talking up the trails and explaining the different programs they offer. Local sporting goods retailers were there with displays and a ski gear swap area also attracted a lot of traffic.

Club member Karen Johnson says it was a busy day.

“The place was packed with new faces and there’s definitely new interest. There seems to be more of an awareness of fitness and what an opportunity cross-country skiing is for keeping fit.”

Johnson says the South Cariboo is a top-notch ski area, but not many local residents take advantage of it.

“Our quality is among the best in the province. This is an amazing facility and we should have more people from here using it. People from all over B.C. come to ski here.

“Part of last weekend was showing our appreciation to those people who have built it up since the ‘80s — the people from the past who have worked so hard to develop the area.”

The club and the

ski facility have been undergoing some changes recently, with new programming that offers lessons to adults, Johnson says.

“Our old program was mainly a kids’ program that built the racing program. We’ve had a number of national level skiers come from 100 Mile House.”

The club is also making plans for additional gentler ski trails that will accommodate new skiers and families.

“Our trails can be challenging, but we want to make it attractive to everyone.”

Ski season opens after the snow flies and Johnson predicts that trails will be ready near the end of December.

The club is still taking registration for its upcoming programs and those needing information can check out their website at www.100milenordics.com or contact Nicola at 250-791-6331.