It has been a pretty dry winter but that didn’t stop us from getting out and cross country skiing the Lake Lillian Whiteway when we were spending a weekend at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.
It was a warm and sunny weekend and the more well known Lake Windermere Whiteway had closed 24 hours prior. The Lake Lillian Whiteway is a little higher in elevation so it was still covered in snow, although during the heat of the afternoon sun, there were definitely some slushy spots appearing.
Where Is The Lake Lillian Whiteway
The Lake Lillian whiteway is located under a 10 minute drive from Invermere on the way to the Panorama Ski Resort. As you are driving from Invermere, after the road levels out a little bit, the parking for the Lake Lillian whiteway is on the right, it is signed but right on the parking area. It is a short downhill to the main parking area and from there it is a short walk on to the lake to start your ski.
The Lake Lillian Whiteway
The 3 kilometre ski trail at the Lake Lillian whiteway runs around the edge of the lake and is trackset for both classic and skate skiing although since we were there towards the end of the season and just after some fresh snow there was only a classic ski trail. Check out the trail map.
We followed the trail in a counter clockwise direction, it sticks close to the lake edge which means there are some tight curves as it navigates the shoreline. The Lake Lillian whiteway passes lakeside homes, their docks frozen out into the lake as well as forested areas. It was super peaceful when we went with just one other person using the trail when we headed out. It was later in the day and very warm though.
The trail system here is signed well as there are multi use trails, with walkers and runners also being able to use the trails. They are signed to stay off the cross country ski trail, which is clearly signposted. You are also able to take your dog on the lake with you.
Since the Lake Lillian whiteway is on a lake, there is no elevation change, making this an ideal spot for a relaxed ski or perfect for beginners to perfect their skills.
The views around the trail are beautiful, surrounded by mostly forest, there are huge mountains which, covered in snow, really glowed in the sunshine.
If it is a warm sunny day, the Lake Lillian Whiteway day use area has picnic benches and fire pits, making it a perfect spot for a picnic on a warmer day. This spot is also very popular in the summer.
The Lake Lillian Whiteway is maintained by the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club, in order to use both the Lake Lillian and Windermere Whiteway’s, you need to purchase a day pass or you can also get an annual pass, you can pre pay online or in cash at the trailhead. This money goes back to the Nordic club to allow them to continue to maintain these trails.
Check out the latest conditions and grooming at Lake Lillian Whiteway on Nordic Pulse. You can also find grooming reports for other local trails as well.
Other Places To Ski Near Invermere
If you are looking for more options to go cross country skiing near Invermere, there are lots! As mentioned before, there is the Windermere Lake Whiteway, which is a huge multi use trail system on Windermere Lake, it is trackset for classic cross country skiing and a lane is also cleared for ice skating around this huge lake.
Another option is the Nordic Centre at the Panorama Ski Resort, here you will find 20 kilometres of classic and skate skiing trails. These trails are regularly maintained and easily accessible, especially if you are staying at the Panorama Ski Resort.
Last, just north of Radium Hot Springs, you’ll find the Nipika Mountain Resort, an absolute favourite spot for cross country skiers. This spot has over 50 kilometres of groomed trails for both class and cross country skiing. There is also cabin accommodation on site if you are needing somewhere to stay.
