Fans of the skinny ski will delight in exploring the 70 kilometres of trails at the Canmore Nordic Centre, a legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics. High-end rentals and lessons are available at the Centre where there's a lesson every day at noon, and private lessons can be easily arranged. Trails are immaculately groomed for skate and classic skiing, and there's a lit loop open until 9 p.m. nightly.

The routes at the Nordic Centre offer lots of ups and downs and some spectacular views of the town below. The daily rate to ski is extremely reasonable. The day lodge is warm and cozy, and offers excellent lunches to hungry skiers.

Backcountry aficionados will find a wealth of trails nearby, up the Spray Road in Kananaskis Country or next door in Banff National Park. Touring gear can be rented in town. Of course, nobody should venture into the backcountry without knowledge of avalanche conditions and how to avoid trouble. If there is any doubt, it's wise to hire a local guiding company that can safely introduce the delights of the wilderness to "newbies."

Click HERE for Crosscountry Ski Trails