Thinking about places to train prior to the race? You’ve got a few options.
- The Singing Pass Trail is accessible from Whistler Village. This is a bit tricky to find but with a GPS app like ULLR or Gaia, it’s pretty easy. Park in one of the day lots and head for the base of Whistler Gondola. Start skinning up the left side of the run and turn left at the trail. The trail starts well below treeline and crosses a few creeks before emerging at treeline and avi terrain. Watch for skiers descending on the blind corners.
- Red Heather/Elfin Lakes is a mellow road grade above Squamish that takes you to the Red Heather Hut before entering avi terrain and continuing along the ridge to some nice north facing runs and the Elfin Huts. Chains and 4×4 are required to access the upper parking lot but trail is usually packed enough to use race skis.
- The Sea to Sky Gondola was the venue of our 2018 race and there is some amazing touring up there. Be very aware of avalanche conditions as it’s tiger country!
- Depending on Avi Conditions (check avalanche.ca) there is amazing touring outside the boundary of the Whistler Blackcomb ski area. Exit at a designated backcountry gate on either the Musical Bumps side or Blackcomb Glacier and enjoy the Spearhead Range. This is serious avi terrain and often requires more float than a skimo race ski.
- Uphill Travel is NOT allowed on open runs at Whistler Blackcomb. Their policy is available here.
If you’ve got questions about training opportunities in the Sea to Sky, send us a message at info@nullsquamishskimo.com or get in touch with the folks at Escape Route as they do occasionally offer skimo clinics and training nights!
