Programs

The Yellowknife Ski Club offers a range of programs to advance skills and encourage healthy living. Here’s a summary of what we offer, for more information, contact us.

Jackrabbits

A national ski program that offers lessons to youth. Lessons are every Saturday from 2-3, Parents are welcome to join younger classes:

  • Bunny rabbits (4-5 years old), parents must accompany their children on the snow, preferably on skis.
  • Jackrabbits (6+ years old). 

Email ykjackrabbits@gmail.com. for more information or download: Things To Consider When Buying Kids X-C Gear (PDF)Ski Waxing primer for Jackrabbits (PDF)

Track Attack

For youth ages 9-13 who have completed Jackrabbits or reached a comparable skill level in skiing. The program focuses on skill development, fitness, training and (for those interested) introduction to competitive skiing. Lessons offered on Monday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings each week. 

Biathlon

The sport of biathlon combines two skills: ski endurance and rifle marksmanship. It also teaches firearm safety along with skiing and shooting skills. We are currently offering biathlon for kids age 10 and older. As our main focus is on safety and shooting, we ask that our participants also register for either Track Attack or High Performance to build on their skiing ability and overall fitness.

The fees are $100 for the season.  Fees include program registration and rifle rental. *Note* Ammunition will be responsibility of the athlete/parents. (Available for purchase from the Biathlon program) We also have dedicated Biathlon Trails Map. In addition, all athletes, coaches and official must register with Biathlon Canada for Insurance 

High Performance

For youth ages 13 + who have completed the Jackrabbit and/or Track Attack program or have reached a comparable skill level in skiing. Training is varied and challenging (but also lots of fun) and the focus is on improving technique, increasing efficiency (speed), fitness and participation in ski races.  Fees are $200 for the season. Some extra expenses may be incurred and the group fundraises to help offset race travel and equipment costs.

Skiing Parents

Parents get to ski and the kids enjoy playing so everyone goes home happy! There are toys for the kids, and a big open space to use them. Skiing parents meet several mornings per week. Fees are $20 for the season.

Chix on Stix

Women’s Recreational Evening Ski – Join us for a few loops around the lit trails or venture off on other trails guided by moonlight or headlamps. Après-ski social often follows. All levels welcome.

Adult Lessons

We’ve offered group and private lessons in the past, covering both intermediate and beginner skiers. You can read up on a previous season’s lessons here

Ski rentals

The Yellowknife Ski Club does not rent out any ski equipment. 

Skis can be rented at Overlander Sports. People who rent skis from Overlander are welcome to use our trails for free. 

Learn to Frostbite 50

The “Train to Frostbite 50” is for people who want to increase their endurance, learn trails around the YK bush, dress and snack for cold-weather sports, break their personal best longest ski week after week, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY truly enjoy being outdoors this winter.  

Each week, for the 12 weeks preceding the Frostbite 50, you will receive information and maps of one recommended short (fast) skis, an indoor workout (not requiring any specialized equipment), a motivational interview with a former Frostbite 50 skier, and most importantly a map for a recommended long weekend ski. The group skis will take us into the bush around Yellowknife and introduce you to your new favourite wilderness trails. Over the program, there will be approximately 12 group skis ( 6 shorter and 6 longer). Several of the longer skis will be more remote and skidoo supported.  

We will also host several in-person strength and stretching sessions at the YK Ski Club chalet. Other highlights –hot waxing tutorials, opportunities for indoor cross-training, new friends, motivation to ski all winter in all weather conditions!