Learn to Cross-Country Ski at Whistler Olympic Park
Never tried cross-country skiing? This is your trip. Parkbus delivers you from Vancouver to a serene and inspiring natural setting at Whistler Olympic Park, where you'll learn to ski on the same trails where Olympic athletes trained, with professional instruction included.
Why This Trip is Perfect for Beginners
The easiest way to get into cross-country skiing successfully is by taking a lesson. That's why this trip includes instruction from experienced and friendly instructors who will give you the fundamentals to start exploring the trails on your own with proper technique.
Classic skiing is easier than skate skiing and the technique feels natural, you are essentially walking on skis. This is the most traditional form of skiing, popular due to the movement having a more natural feel that's almost as fluid as walking. Within your lesson, you'll learn basic balance, the kick-and-glide motion, and how to control your speed on gentle terrain.
Lessons can be customized for any level of skier, including those with no prior experience.
What's Included
Your lesson covers everything you need to get started. The cross-country ski package includes Rossignol skis, poles, and boots. You can choose between classic skiing, where you ski in set tracks (recommended for first-timers), or skate skiing, where you ski "free" or not in the tracks. For beginners, classic is the way to go.
After your lesson, you'll have the rest of the afternoon to practice what you've learned. First-timers should head out on the Neverland trail, which starts right at the Day Lodge and is rated a double-green. With over 55 km of cross-country ski trails and plenty of beginner-friendly routes, there's room to explore at your own pace.
A World-Class Setting
As the host of the Nordic events during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Whistler Olympic Park is a world-class destination that now welcomes skiers of all abilities. Ski at your own pace through old-growth forests and dreamy meadows. Climb up to different viewpoints for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges.
The Callaghan Valley location means peaceful trails away from crowds, with relatively warm temperatures around 0°C (32°F) Whistlerolympicpark—comfortable conditions for learning.
The Parkbus Difference
Sit back and enjoy one of the most beautiful drives in the world along the Sea to Sky Highway. Beginning at sea level and tracing a route along the shore of Howe Sound, the route weaves deep into the Coast Mountains. Arrive relaxed and ready to learn—no navigating winter roads, no parking stress.
Your Day
- Depart Vancouver: 8:30 am
- Arrive at Whistler Olympic Park: 10:45 am
- Free skiing and lunch: Afternoon
- Depart Whistler Olympic Park: 4:30 pm
- Arrive back in Vancouver: 7:00 pm
Pickup Locations
1025 Dunsmuir Street
In front of Bentall Centre Courtyard, where you’ll also see TD Bank. We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus.
Departure Time
8:30 AM
Return Time
6:45 PM
Squamish Adventure Centre
The Squamish Adventure Centre (SAC) is Squamish, BC's main visitor hub on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Location: Squamish Adventure Centre, 38551 Loggers Ln #106, Squamish, BC V8B 0H2
Departure Time
9:30 AM
Return Time
5:45 PM
Whistler Olympic Park
The Whistler Olympic Park is the location of the Nordic and Biathlon events facilities for the 2010 Winter Olympics and is located in the Madeley Creek basin in the Callaghan Valley, west of Whistler, British Columbia, Canada.
Estimated arrival
10:45 AM
Departure
4:30 PM
I've never skied before. Is this trip right for me?
Absolutely—this trip is designed for you. Lessons can be customized for any level of skier, including those with no prior experience. Classic skiing is easier for beginners. The technique is initially very intuitive: you are essentially walking on skis.
What will I learn in the lesson?
A private lesson with one of our experienced and friendly instructors will give you the basics to start exploring the trails on your own with the proper technique. You'll cover balance, the diagonal stride (kick and glide), stopping, and navigating gentle terrain. The classic technique is recommended for most first-timers.
Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No—everything is available to rent at the Day Lodge. The cross-country ski package includes Rossignol skis, poles, and boots. Boots are available in toddler size to US men's size 16.
What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, light and breathable synthetic or wool layers; avoid cotton. Dress as if you were heading out to a cold gym, winter hike, run or cycle. ou'll warm up quickly once you start moving, so layers you can adjust are key.
How fit do I need to be?
Cross-country skiing is adaptable to your fitness level. You can control how much effort you put in—from a casual saunter to a brisk marching pace. The beginner trails are gentle, and you set your own pace.
What if I fall?
Falling is part of learning, and getting up is easy. Unlike downhill skiing, your heel isn't locked to the ski, making it simple to stand back up. The soft, groomed snow is forgiving, and you'll be on flat or gentle terrain.
What trails should I try after my lesson?
We recommend first-timers head out on the Neverland trail, which starts right at the Day Lodge and is rated a double-green. Practice in the instruction or ski play areas to work on balance and confidence before you head out on the trails.
Is there food at the park?
Yes! The fully-licensed café in the Day Lodge serves locally inspired favorites and warming treats. The menu includes locally-inspired meals, drinks, and warming treats. They also cater to gluten-free and vegan diets.
What's the difference between classic and skate skiing?
Classic cross country skiing involves body mechanics that approximate walking. The skier's arms and legs move in equal and opposite directions and the skis slide parallel along packed-down, groomed tracks in the snow. Skate skiing is more like ice skating and requires more athleticism. Novices should start with classic skiing. It is easier to learn and takes much less time to become proficient enough to have fun.
Can children take lessons?
Private cross-country skiing lessons are available for classic (ages 5+) and skate (ages 7+) techniques.
Why take the bus?
Arrive rested and ready to learn instead of tired from driving. The Sea to Sky Highway is stunning but demanding in winter conditions. We handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your day—and you won't be too tired to appreciate the views on the way home.
