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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

The task was simple: move from Ottawa to Vancouver in five days. With those instructions, it would have been easy to think of it as nothing more than A to B, and a 5500 km straight shot across the continent. And why not? A new job, a new city, and a new life were waiting out west. It could have been little more than one long ride.

Five days of the driver seat and the fast lane. An endless number of billboards, truck stops, and little white lines, blurred together by the vision of a single destination. But it also could have been a lifetime worth of opportunity, slipping through our fingers with each kilometer traveled. A world of adventure, passing by as fast as the road we traveled over.

See, if there’s one thing I’ve come to believe, it’s that the greatest experiences are not exclusive to the grandest plans. The moments we so deeply long to live are in no way reserved for only the most exotic trips. They are held for those who search for them, who step out of the everyday routine, and who take them. It was this simple belief that made those five days so much more than a long drive. It transformed them into an opportunity to explore, adventure, and connect with a world we then knew nothing about. It turned a car ride into a road trip, and turned the kilometers into opportunities to seek the unknown. The journey became a destination in and of itself.

Because of that simple shift, I don’t have to tell you what I think it could have been. I can show you.

It was taking moments to get back to the things that matter most:



and chance after chance to embrace the unknown.



It was taking time to make new friends:



and learning lessons in history, without stepping into a classroom.



It was places that looked like different planets,



and waking up on the side of a mountain.



knowing full well it would likely lead us astray.



It was landscapes that left us looking at this world differently



and moments we still can’t find the words to describe.



It was a reminder that some of the best things are not on the well-travelled path



and that sometimes you have to go where there is no path at all.



And coffee just about anywhere we could get our hands on it.



It was a reminder that the “little moments” really aren’t so little.



And that we should spend just a little more time kicking back and taking it in.



It was Ottawa, Toronto, Detroit, Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, Minnesota, Badlands, Rushmore, Black Hills, Big Horn, Yellowstone, Butte, Columbia, Seattle, home and everything in between.



We saw things we didn’t know existed and learned things we didn’t know were there to learn. Felt emotions we didn’t know we could feel and created memories that will change the way we live our lives.

It was anything but A to B.



*This post was submitted by Julian DeSchutter from [Chasing Sunrise](https://www.instagram.com/ChasingSunrise/). You can keep up with Julian on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/deshoots/).*



Vancouver to Ottawa: Finding adventure at every turn | MEC Blog

Vancouver to Ottawa: Finding adventure at every turn

With the rise of camping inspiration accounts on Instagram, we all want to get in on the action. Last year we launched a hashtag to showcase favourite places to wake up in the great outdoors. Every week we shared a photo using the hashtag #FromtheTentFriday. These are some of our all-time faves to get you into the camping spirit.



##### Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario


Location: [Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/algonquin)

Get the tent: [MSR Elixir 2 Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5039-941/msr-elixir-2-tent/)



Location: [Mt. Robson, BC](http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_robson/)

Get the tent: [MEC TGV2 Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5027-668/mec-tgv-2-tent/)



Location: [Crowsnest Pass, Alberta](https://travelalberta.com/ca/places-to-go/road-trips/crowsnest-highway/)

Similar tent: [Big Agnes Flying Diamond 4 Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5024-443/big-agnes-flying-diamond-4-tent)



Location: [5040 Vancouver Island, BC](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/5040+Peak/@49.1918793,-125.767235,9.21z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x5489aa2ebdcfbbb1:0xce50cb94f0cf8cce)

Similar tent: [MEC Camper 2 Tent](/en/product/5042-055/Camper-2-Tent)



Location: [Brockton Point, Mount Seymour, BC](http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_seymour/)

Similar tent: [Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5035-482/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul2-tent)



Location: [Whistler, BC](http://www.whistler.com/activities/camping/)

Get the tent: [MSR Hubba NX Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5039-918/msr-hubba-nx-tent)



##### Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, Ontario


Location: [Rainbow Falls Provincial Park, Ontario](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/rainbowfalls)

Get the tent: [MEC Volt LT 2 Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5036-982/mec-volt-lt-2-tent)



Location: [Killbear Provincial Park, Ontario](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/killbear)

Get the tent: [MEC Cabin 4 Tent](http://www.mec.ca/product/5032-205/mec-cabin-4-tent)



Location: Somewhere in [Saskatchewan](http://www.saskparks.net/reserve-a-site)

Similar tent: [Burton Blacktail Tent](/en/product/5051-258/Blacktail-2-Tent)

*Show us your favourite places to camp. Tag us on Instagram using @mec and #FromtheTentFriday for a chance to be featured.*



Your favourite places to wake up camping | MEC Blog

Your favourite places to wake up camping

*Follow MEC Ambassadors and staff as we list some of our favourite hikes across the nation, east to west.*

### Nova Scotia
#### Left Middle Head Trail


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Haley M.
*Distance:* 3.8km loop
*Duration:* 1–2 hours

Middle Head Trail is located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, not far from Ingonish Beach and just beyond the popular Keltic Lodge. Gorgeous and winding, the trail guides hikers all the way to the end of the peninsula. Along the route there are diverse plants and rock formations, signage that explains the history of the path and some breathtaking sneak peeks of the Atlantic through an occasional break in the trees. At the end you’ll likely see birds nesting and whales playing just off of the high cliffs, making it a choice spot for a picnic lunch.



#### Cape Split Trail


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Emily H.
*Distance:* 16km return
*Duration:* 4–5 hours

Just a 40 minute drive from Wolfville, the Cape Split Trail is beautiful and meandering. You won’t find any crazy steeps here, just amazing views of the ocean through lush trees. At the end of your 8km walk out to the point, you’ll see crazy jutting rock formations, two different ocean currents smashing into each other and a comfy perch to enjoy your lunch.

*Find more ideas in [Atlantic region hiking books and maps](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/c/922?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3AAtlantic+Provinces)*



### Quebec
#### Le Sentier des Pionniers, Mont Sainte-Anne


*Recommended by:* MEC Ambassador Louis Rousseau
*Distance:* 6km return
*Duration:* 2 hours

Just 30 minutes from Quebec City, Mont Sainte-Anne rises up from the shores of the Saint Lawrence River, offering spectacular views of Charlevoix region to the east and the city to the west. Le Sentier des Pionniers is a favourite route to the summit, with more shade and less wind than neighboring trail La Crête, plus plenty of spots to enjoy a snack while you observe Orleans Island. The trail is a great option for trail runners as well, since you can finish in 30-40 minutes and you can catch a ride down from the summit if the gondolas are open.



#### Acropole-des-Draveur dans le Charlevoix


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Nadine D.
*Distance:* 10.4km return
*Duration:* 4–6 hours

Those up for a challenge will dig this day hike that comes with 800m of vertical gain. From the forest floor to the summit, you’re surrounded by lush mountain foliage and climb a couple of kilometers of stone steps. Bonus: chance encounters with caribou are a fun precursor to views of the Rivière Malbaie and surrounding mountains.



#### Rocky Rouge Trail, Mont St-Hiliare


*Recommended by:* MEC Staffer Melanie S.
*Distance:* 9.6km return
*Duration:* 3.5 hours

Wide and teeming with lush trees, Rocky Rouge Trail is a nice and easy day hike from Montreal. Plan your trip to reach Hertel Lake around lunch – its glassy surface is an ideal spot to relax in nature with an alpine sandwich. Higher up the path narrows and starts to show its roots – literally – before offering up awesome views of Montreal, the low lands and the other Monteregian hills at the summit.

*Find more ideas in [Quebec hiking books and maps](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/c/922?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3AQuebec)*





### Ontario
#### Mono Cliffs Provincial Park


*Recommended by:* MEC Ambassador Jim Willet
*Distance:* 3–10km return, depending on route chosen
*Duration:* 1–3 hours

With the famed Bruce Trail running through it, Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is truly picturesque. There are lots of side trails – walk through a canyon on Spillway Trail or along 30-metre cliffs on Cliff Top Trail – to make a beautiful morning or afternoon hike. There are some technical aspects in spots, but for the most part it’s a nice accessible area that lends itself to people of all different skill sets, making it perfect for beginners and those with less outdoor experience.

#### The Bruce Trail, Tobermory to Little Cove


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Shane V.
*Distance:* 13.4km return
*Duration:* 3 hours

The Bruce Trail is Canada’s oldest and longest marked path, spanning more than 890km on the main route and encompassing over 400km of side trails. While it may be known for its scenic strolls, the trail can be quite technical too. Take off early in the morning on a summer day when the quiet atmosphere makes it easier to spot wildlife and be sure to layer over a swimsuit so you can take a dip once you spot the crisp, clean waters of nearby Georgian Bay.

#### The Bluff Trail, Awenda Provincial Park


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Kathryn T.
*Distance:* 13km return
*Duration:* 3.5 hours

Located approximately 150km north of Toronto, the Bluff Trail in Awenda Provincial Park is a real favourite. Get lost in its lush, tree-covered trails that lead to beautiful views of the Georgian Bay coastline. While not very technical, the trail’s charm is in its accessibility and more adventurous hikers can spend the day rock hopping along the shoreline instead. The trail can be accessed from several points in the park, so you can make each visit your own.

*Find more ideas in [Ontario hiking books and maps](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/c/922?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3AOntario&text=)*



### Manitoba
#### Hunt Lake Trail, Whiteshell Provincial Park


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Tara K.
*Distance:* 12.6 km return
*Duration:* 3 hours

Following the shores of Hunt Lake and West Hawk Lake, this trail starts you out almost on the border of Ontario and travels through spectacular Canadian Shield territory. There are some amazing rock formations you can climb in the first half hour of the hike, with steep sections giving way to awesome views. Foliage is on full display here – white pines grow in this area and their roots cover the majority of the trail as you trek to Indian Bay.

#### Tamarack Loop of Epinette Creek Trail, Spruce Woods Park


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*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Ken B.
*Distance:* 10.5km
*Duration:* 5 hours

Mixed grass prairie, boreal forest and sand dunes converge on this unique trail. There are cacti, the northern prairie skink, evergreen trees and rare tall-grass prairie plants along the way. The Tamarack loop can be completed in a day along with many other accessible loops, while the full Epinette Creek Trail is long enough for a multi-day trip.  Lovely scenery and yes, even hills, await.

*Find more ideas in [hiking books and maps for the Prairies](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/c/922?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3APrairies&text=)*



### Alberta
#### Sentinel Pass, Lake Louise


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Calvin Q.
*Distance:* 12km return
*Duration:* 7 hours

The Sentinel Pass trail takes you on an easy stroll through a beautiful larch forest, past famous Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, as well as two other small, high alpine lakes. With rocky sections, around 700m of elevation gain and steep switchbacks in the last section – the view from the top is stunning year round. The best time to go is late September to early October when there are fewer people and the larch forest turns a brilliant orange. You can take it easy by staying in Larch Valley or make it more difficult by scrambling up the peak of Mt. Temple.

#### Wilcox Pass, Jasper


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Kaitlyn R.
*Distance:* 12km return
*Duration:* 5 hours

Right across from the Athabasca Glacier and close to the Columbia Icefield, the weather can be touch-and-go here, with snow being a regular occurrence into June or even July. The elevation gains are quick, so it doesn’t take long to be treated to standout views in every direction. Due to the popularity of the hike, the trails have become wider and worn, so it’s important to stay on the trail to avoid damaging the surrounding area. You may be lucky enough to spot big horned sheep, too.

#### 


### British Columbia
#### The Butte, Kimberley


*Recommended by:* MEC Ambassador Bruce Kirkby
*Distance:* 2.5km return
*Duration:* 1–2 hours

Known locally as “the Butte”, this short, gentle hike leads through the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s Pine Butte Ranch grasslands to a lookout atop a Lone Pine Hill. Hikers are rewarded with 360-degree off-the-charts views: the Rocky Mountains to the east, the Purcells to the west and up and down a grand stretch of the Rocky Mountain Trench, which separates the two ranges. The hike is good year round, but arguably the best time of year to go is mid-May, when blooming arnica carpet the grasslands and hillsides. The area is great for birding too, and you might even spot elk and or a badger on the plains.



#### High Creek Falls, Squamish


*Recommended by:* MEC Amabassador Roz Groenewoud
*Distance:* 12km
*Duration:* 5 hours

High Creek Falls can be pretty steep – small scrambles and sections with rope included – but the payoff is well worth it. Beautiful waterfall outlooks and magnificent views of the Squamish Valley are a welcome bonus to the peaceful feeling of being on a lightly developed trail. This is a best kept secret around the Vancouver area, since some of the more famous Squamish hikes feel like a highway with lots of people, but spotting another group of hikers here is unlikely; so, don’t tell too many people about it.



#### Joffre Lakes, Pemberton


*Recommended by:* MEC staffer Ardeen D.
*Distance:* 11km return
*Duration:* 5 hours

There are a few alpine lake hikes in BC worth noting, but none offer the quick and easy access that Joffre Lakes does. Just a few minutes from the parking lot off Duffey Lake Road you’ll reach the first of three turquoise lakes. A nice intermediate trek up into the forest and through a boulder field leads you to the middle lake, which is great for a blast of cold if you’re into a dip on a hot summer day. Only 20–30 minutes further you’re at the upper lake, enjoying glacier views as a backdrop.

Find more ideas in *[BC hiking books and maps](/en/ideal-for/day-hiking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/c/922?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3ABritish+Columbia&text=)*



*What’s your favourite day hike? Tell us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/mec).*



MEC picks: day hikes across Canada | MEC Blog

MEC picks: day hikes across Canada

At the heart of the Okanagan valley, along the edge of the Okanagan Lake sits an opportune blend of the comforts and culture of city life and the wild uncertainties of nature. An ideal home base for any type of adventure, this BC wonderland is now home to [MEC Kelowna](/en/stores/kelowna).

The awesomeness of the Okanagan Valley attracts travellers and activity junkies from around the world, including MEC Ambassadors [Sarah Hart](/en/explore/mec-ambassadors/sarah-hart) and [Max Edwards](/en/explore/mec-ambassadors/max-edwards).

As a professional climber, Sarah holds the area in high regard. She visits the area often to practice and train.



> “Climbing on the ‘dry side’ of the mountains is a Coastal climber’s secret weapon. When it’s raining at home (in Squamish), it’s almost certainly dry and warm in the interior. In early spring, when my gear feels mouldy from a winter of rotting in the rain, arriving at the Skaha Bluffs parking lot is like stepping out of the car into paradise. The air is rich with the smell of sage brush and the sounds of canyon wrens. Not to mention from the Skaha Bluffs, not a car can be heard anywhere.” – Sarah Hart
>


For up-and-coming Canadian mountain bike athlete Max, the trails of Kelowna offer something different than those of his hometown of Whistler, BC. He frequently travels around Canada riding and racing and he’s always on the lookout for killer riding destinations and training grounds.



> “Riding in BC’s interior is always amazing. Fast, wide open singletrack, lake views and trails that leave right from town… it’s truly a mountain biker’s paradise! I’m constantly blown away with how many different riding zones there are and the variety in trail styles. Kelowna’s got everything from rocky technical moves, to smooth flow trails with big built up berms.” – Max Edwards
>


Why MEC Ambassadors train in Kelowna | MEC Blog

Why MEC Ambassadors train in Kelowna

Not all rides are made equal. Ride More Roads is a tribute to rides fuelled by a desire to explore, to spontaneous moments and unexpected experiences that happen on a new route, and to that deeply satisfying feeling of there and back again.

To bring Ride More Roads to life, we travelled to southern California to ride the golden coast’s best roads. Between countless stops for espresso, technical descents and more than a few rough sections of asphalt, we pulled off a trip that we’re unlikely to forget any time soon. Connect with MEC for highlights from the trip, including exceptional roads, a brief Drake cameo and the ridiculously great Ridley bikes we were lucky enough to bring.

Join us: [#ridemoreroads](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/ridemoreroads/)



Ride more roads / Roulez Plus

Ride more roads | MEC Blog

Ride more roads

There’s a lot to factor in when choosing where to ski or ride in the Great White North – everything from night skiing and terrain variety to driving time and après spots. Looking for a lesson? Head to Rabbit Hill outside Edmonton. Want to follow in the footsteps of three pro snowboarders? You might be surprised by the small but mighty Martock in Nova Scotia. Sure you can go after a massive bucket list, but if you’re seeking unique this season, these are the spots.

From big steeps in the Rockies to crisp corduroy out east, we chose 11 resorts that are each known for something different.

#### Mont Tremblant, Quebec


**Location:** Nestled in the Laurentian Mountains just a 1 hour and 40 minute drive from Montreal.

**Known for:** Variety of terrain and activities, plus plenty of après delights.

This eastern Canadian skier’s paradise offers 96 trails and four sides to choose from. Beginners and families will be pleased with the variety of accessible terrain, while intermediate and advanced skiers can find plenty of slopes to fulfill carving desires. Make sure you get up early – you’ll definitely want to lay first tracks into the mountain’s meticulously groomed corduroy. Off-piste, be prepared to mingle with a large outdoor crowd out for ice climbing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dogsledding, skating and tubing.

The colourful village at Mont Tremblant’s base is European-influenced in its design, and is lively, buzzing through the day and night with shops, restaurants, and Quebecois traditions like *tire d’érable*(maple taffy). A gondola traffics pedestrians between the split village with ease, making the 75 shops and restaurants incredibly accessible. Microbrewerie La Diable has your local craft beers, La Forge Bar & Grill your après nosh and Le P’tit Caribou your spin-ready DJ.

**Top off your visit:**Spend a night on the hill for perks like ice skate loans, first track access and free evening tube rides.

#### Stoneham Resort, Quebec


**Location:**A quick 30-minute drive from downtown Quebec City.

**Known for:**Night skiing, freestyle terrain and exceptional park design.

An Olympic-size half-pipe is just one of the impressive features of this night skiing go-to. Freestyle terrain is king at Stoneham – the XL 418 Park has modules designed specifically for experts and step-up jumps that minimize the impact of landing. It’s a favourite of professional snowboarder Jason Dubois.

Those newer to park and pipe can work their way up. Beginner and intermediate parks are primed for lots of practice hours with nighttime flood lights and an intermediate rail section. The three mountains offer a total of 42 trails that are sheltered from strong winds. Three quad chairlifts get riders up top in a flash, and one bubble-top chair offers extra protection from the chill.

**Top off your visit:**Make sure your après includes a visit to the 4-Foyer bar, which *Ski Magazine*lauded as “one of the best designed ski bars anywhere.”

#### Blue Mountain Resort, Ontario


**Location:**On the shores of Georgian Bay, an approximate 2-hour drive from Hamilton, Mississauga or Toronto.

**Known for:** Holding the title of Ontario’s largest mountain resort and its family-friendly reputation.

Ontarians seem to charge “the Blue” at every opportunity, and with good reason. The hill boasts 42 trails with 15 lifts (including five high-speed six-person express chairs). Here, number of runs holds just as much cred as the number of days on your pass, and with night skiing, the laps can continue after the sun goes down.

The beginner-oriented Newbie program available through the mountain’s snow school includes lessons, gear, and access to a self-guided circuit aimed at developing your skills. Novice and advanced skiers and riders will find plenty of slick blue runs to charge and carve, plus glade runs to satisfy tree lovers.

The Ridge Runner mountain coaster makes for some seriously happy kiddos, and parents can find more to entertain young snow bunnies with skating, tubing or snowshoeing.

**Top off your visit:**Treat your tired muscles to a post-slope massage at the Scandinave Spa, a dunk in the Scandinavian baths and a session in the eucalyptus steam room.

#### Whistler Blackcomb, BC


**Location:**A 2-hour drive from downtown Vancouver up the stunning Sea to Sky highway.

**Known for:**Two mega mountains, sweeping views and powder days.

Whistler is a bucket list ski vacation destination for Canadians and international skiers and boarders the world over. Host to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, these hills are what you might call the Big Time. The two side-by-side mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – span 8171 acres and are connected by the Guinness World Record-holding Peak 2 Peak Gondola, giving skiers of every ability several days’ worth of terrain to cover.

After a lengthy day of skiing or boarding, the village is the place to go for unconventional après like sushi and a variety of music, including 80s nights, house and reggae. Excessively garnished caesars at Merlin’s are a favourite.

**Top off your visit:** If ever there was a time to splurge on a heli-skiing venture, this is it.

#### Camp Fortune, Quebec


**Location:** Only a 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa/Gatineau.

**Known for:**Servicing the lunchtime and after-work crowds and some seriously crisp corduroy.

If you can duck out for some day laps during the work week, you’ll be one happy camper to find lots of terrain over five hills and virtually no lift lines. There are sweet lines all over the mountain and this is where you get to really lay into groomers. Sparks and Paradis are fantastic cruisers; North American and Duffy are great on powder days (yes, they do exist) as they are all natural and have varied terrain; and Heggveit is the signature run and it is tonnes of fun to cruise down first thing in the morning.

The hill regularly takes the crown for the longest ski season in the region, has a terrain park with 12 hits, hosts well-lit night skiing and keeps the après crowd happy with two lodges.

**Top off your visit:**For expert skiers, check out the the Craigsmarc glade run.

#### Cypress Mountain, BC


**Location:**A 30–40 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.

**Known for:**The largest vertical rise on the North Shore mountains, great views of Vancouver and the ocean.

Cypress is a favourite among Lower Mainland residents. Canada’s first gold medals of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games were won on this mountain, giving it some hometown glory. The largest vertical in the area, great choice of terrain and several faces to explore make it the after-work or half-day no brainer. A total of 53 runs and four terrain parks will keep you interested until it’s time to duck into the lodge for a burger and a local brew.

Also home to 19km of groomed and track-set trails, the mountain is also popular with Nordic skiers (7.5km are lit for regular night skiing) and families looking to play in the snow tubing park.

**Top off your visit:**If you need to give your legs a bit of break, this is a great spot to try snowshoeing.

#### Rabbit Hill Snow Resort, Alberta


**Location:**Situated on the bank of the North Saskatchewan River, a 45-minute drive from downtown Edmonton.

**Known for:**Beginner-friendly terrain and accessible night skiing.

Small but mighty, Rabbit Hill has been a major snowsports hub in Edmonton for over 60 years. The snow making team at the hill keep the conditions fluffy, crisp and groomed regardless of what mother nature has in store. The hill is made for first timers and fast learners – magic carpets, tow ropes and T-bars sandwich a triple chairlift that caters to more advanced skiers.

Two terrain parks house a bunch of boxes and rails arranged in a progressive design so you can build your skills from ride-on to jump-on.

**Top off your visit:**Take a lesson. From group to private lessons, this is the place to learn and really nail down your technique.

#### Winsport COP, Alberta


**Location:**In the SW quadrant, a 20-minute drive from downtown Calgary.

**Known for:** Hosting the 1988 Olympic Winter Games and being Calgary’s only in-city ski hill.

You may find yourself asked to pose for a picture with tourists as you come off the top of the 88 Express Chair since the Winsport grounds are home to far more than just ski terrain. Ski jumps, Nordic trails, an Olympic-sized bobsled track, Canada Sports Hall of Fame, and an ice house for year-round winter training invite quite the crowd.

There are 14 hectares of skiable terrain on this little hill armed with two high-speed quad chairlifts and five magic carpets, including an impressive terrain park with a mini pipe and flow-optimized rail and jump system that build to western Canada’s largest pipe, a 22-foot tall, 60-foot wide super pipe. The hill is a favourite for after-school and work activity.

**Top off your visit:**Let an expert pilot whip you through 10 twists and turns at 100km/hour on the bobsled track.

#### Martock Resort, Nova Scotia


**Location:**Neighbouring the Avon River, an hour drive from downtown Halifax.

**Known for:**Friendly staff and holding its own through humid Atlantic weather.

Forget fishing, summer beaches and the Bluenose. Martock is home to a vibrant outdoor winter community. The hill may be small in size (600-feet of vertical with eight trails) but it packs a lot into a small space: two terrain parks, a halfpipe, Burton Riglet Park, five kilometres of Nordic trails and a biathlon range. Plus, the grounds are host to ski, snowboard, cross-country ski and biathlon competitions from local levels to national championchips.

For 100 odd days a year, this is where Atlantic Canadians come to play. The friendly nature of the hill keeps it feeling very neighbourly, and people come back season after season, including pro and Olympic snowboarders Trevor Andrew, Sarah Conrad and Alex Duckworth.

**Top off your visit:** Pay homage to the spirit of snowboarding and take a lesson, even if you’re a skier. The Burton Learn to Ride program makes it easy for adults or kids.

#### Sunshine Village and Ski Resort, Alberta


**Location:**In Banff National Park, approximately 90 minutes from downtown Calgary.

**Known for:**The longest non-glacial season in Canada, wrapping spring skiing with Slush Cup.

With skiers and boarders out and ripping well into May, you can bet on this resort lives up to its name thanks to a large number of bluebird days each season. Its unique location on the Continental Divide means that you can ski in two provinces in one run. This location also produces light, dry, champagne powder across three mountains (Goat’s Eye, Lookout and Standish).

They have varied terrain that caters to all skill levels to keep any ski- or board-bum happy. Now with the first chairlift in Canada with heated seats, the Teepee Town LX lift, novice blue and green run skiers stay toasty and reach the top in just 4.5 minutes.

Come spring, it’s worth sticking around the last day of the year to watch costumed snow lovers skip or swim in a pool of melted snow.

**Top off your visit:** For the expert skier, there’s the double-black monster Delirium Dive, which requires avalanche gear to ride.

#### Lake Louise Ski Resort, Alberta


**Location:** In the Canadian Rockies, a 2-hour drive from downtown Calgary.

**Known for:**A six-month ski season that ends in May and proximity to the stunning emerald lake of the same name.

One of North America’s biggest resorts, Lake Louise spoils skiers and boarders with 145 runs spread across nearly 1700 hectares of terrain. The resort’s unique layout offers beginner, intermediate and advanced runs from every chair, which allows groups to split up based on skill level and then meet back at the chair for another ride up. Whether you favour chutes, glades and gullies, gentle slopes, cruisers or remote bowls, the front and back sides have plenty to offer. The progressive design of the mountain continues in the Showtime Terrain Park and features varied levels of jumps, boxes and rails.

There are more than a few lunch and après options once your legs get tired. Highly recommended: dine on-piste and out in the sun on the wraparound deck at the Lodge of Ten Peaks.

**Top off your visit:**The Fairmont on the lake gets all the glory, but if you’re going all-out on a ski vacation, then the Post Hotel is a big bucket list check.



Planning a ski vacation? Check out these 11 Canadian resorts to ski and ride, from big steeps in the Rockies to crisp corduroy out east.

11 Canadian resorts to ski and ride this year | MEC Blog

11 Canadian resorts to ski and ride this year

Biking is one of the best ways to see Europe’s ancient towns, rolling vineyards and historic castles. And of course, any good riding holiday should include great food and wine. Beaune, France has it all. I took a couple of riders from *Canadian Cyclist* magazine for a tour of my top places to bike around Burgundy.

It was quite by chance that [Burgundy](http://www.burgundy-tourism.com/) became one of my favourite spots to ride. In the late 1980s, I was trying to get back into race shape after an injury and had the idea to get in my miles in Europe. I sold a bike, cashed in savings from working in a bike shop, and headed to Amsterdam. The plan was to ride to the south of France, then to London, and be home in Winnipeg by mid-July.

Instead, I ended up staying for three years.

I got a job as a bike mechanic in [Beaune, France](http://www.beaune-tourism.com/), and travelled around Europe with my bike. Since then, Beaune has always been a special place to me and it has some of the most diverse riding anywhere (along with some of the world’s best food and wine). So when Sam and Chris from *Canadian Cyclist* magazine asked if I could show them around Beaune for a few days before [Eurobike](http://www.eurobike-show.com/eb-en/), I couldn’t refuse.

I brought my own bike from Vancouver with the [EVOC bike bag](/en/product/5038-450/Bike-Travel-Bag). For trips like this, I like having my own bike. It just feels like home and it’s always worth the effort it takes to travel with. The good folks at Ridley Bikes hooked Sam and Chris up with a couple of lightweight 2015 Ultegra-equipped Ridley Helium bikes for this trip. The Helium has a sub-1000-gram frame but is still compliant and comfortable, which is really important for long days in the saddle on the back roads of France.



The three of us met in Beaune, and even though we were a bit jet-lagged it was too nice a day not to go for a short warm-up ride to work the cobwebs out. The traditional first ride for me in Beaune has always been out to [La Rochepot](http://www.larochepot.com/), a medieval castle built in the thirteenth century and then rebuilt in the nineteenth century after the French Revolution.



The ride starts off on paths through the [Beaune](http://www.bourgogne-wines.com/our-wines-our-terroir/all-bourgogne-wines/beaune,2459,9254.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0xNDUyJmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MjE4Jnw%3D) and [Pommard](http://www.bourgogne-wines.com/our-wines-our-terroir/all-bourgogne-wines/pommard,2459,9254.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0xNDUyJmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MzcwJnw%3D) vineyards, then a bit of climbing takes you to a ripping descent though the town of d’Orches and on to La Rochepot. After stopping to see the castle and snapping some pics, we rode back to Beaune through the vineyards of [Puligny-Montrachet ](http://www.bourgogne-wines.com/our-wines-our-terroir/all-bourgogne-wines/puligny-montrachet,2459,9254.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0xNDUyJmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9Mzc4Jnw%3D)and [Meursault](http://www.bourgogne-wines.com/our-wines-our-terroir/all-bourgogne-wines/meursault,2459,9254.html?&args=Y29tcF9pZD0xNDUyJmFjdGlvbj12aWV3RmljaGUmaWQ9MzQ5Jnw%3D), home of some of the best white wines in the world. Beaune is the centre of the Burgundy wine trade, and one of the highlights for me here is tasting wines that I’d never be able to get in Canada.





The meeting place in Beaune is always the Grand Café, a busy traditional café in the centre of town. So the next morning, we met there for breakfast, had their specialty – a Grand Crème, a tasty coffee with warm cream – and went over the days’ route, which is one I look forward to every time I’m in Burgundy.



The route heads towards [Dijon](http://www.burgundy-tourism.com/discover/towns-and-villages/VILLEBOU000000HO/detail/dijon/dijon) through [Pernand-Vergelesses](http://www.bourgogne-info.eu/html/pernand_vergelesses.html), and then goes up a steep climb to the top of the Côte through the village of Échevronne. After that, the route winds through the Burgundy countryside to Pont-de-Pany. Like all rides through this area, you’re never more than a few kilometres from a town, there’s never a chance of running out of water, and your next available coffee stop is always close.

The best part of this ride is stopping in [Châteauneuf-en-Auxois](http://www.burgundy-tourism.com/discover/must-see-tourist-attractions/INCONBOU000V50021U/detail/chateauneuf-en-auxois/chateauneuf-en-auxois), a hilltop fortress built in the fifteenth century with some fascinating history. A café in the central square is the perfect lunch spot; there’s nothing better than having lunch surrounded by a fifteenth-century fortress. After lunch it’s up and over the Côte and through a valley back to Beaune for a 110km day.

When I told Sam and Chris about the riding, I sold it as rolling countryside. After a couple of days of riding, they were pretty convinced it’s just plain hilly. I guess I have to agree.





Day three was a bit shorter to leave some time for exploring Beaune and wine tasting. We went up and down the Côte twice – just to confirm that is indeed hilly – and spent time walking around Beaune and wine tasting. One of the spots we went to was Patriarche Père et Fils. They have the largest cave in Beaune and for 16€ you can walk through kilometres of vaults and taste 16 different wines, including some Premier Crus.



That evening, we went to Le Montrachet, a one-star Michelin restaurant. Going there is an event – the food and service are impeccable. (If you ever get the chance to eat there, do it – you won’t be disappointed.) This meal capped off a few days of decadent eating, from a traditional Burgundy meal at Le Gourmandin to a twist on French fare with an Italian chef at Les Popiettes, along with lots of wine tasting. We needed a long ride to burn off some calories.



After a few 10am Grand Crèmes at Le Grand, we started our final day of riding. Up and over the Côte (again) then through the Burgundy countryside to Autun, a town that dates back to Roman times. In one 50km section of riding, we only saw five cars and rode through countless ancient towns. Each one is like a postcard and perfectly kept, and it’s clear the residents take tremendous pride in their little corner of France. We weren’t in a hurry and stopped to check out churches and châteaux along the route. In Autun, a pizza restaurant at the base of the cathedral was the perfect spot for lunch and a glass of wine. After a cathedral visit, we headed back to Beaune to end off a challenging 125km day.



Over dinner that night, we toasted Burgundy for being such a good host, and tasted wines from towns we’d spent the last four days riding through. I’ve been lucky enough to ride my bike all over the world, and Burgundy remains my favourite. It may not have the iconic climbs from the Tour de Giro and days aren’t necessarily “epic,” but it does have a beautiful countryside with a maze of roads perfect for cycling. If anyone ever needs a tour guide for Beaune, I’m in.



Biking in Burgundy | MEC Blog

Biking in Burgundy

[Crankworx](http://www.crankworx.com/) is mountain biking’s biggest festival, and brings thousands of riders and spectators from around the world to Whistler, BC. Micro Climate, a trail built by [NSMB](http://nsmb.com/) team rider Paul Stevens, was chosen as a stage in the Enduro 2014 World Series – we caught up with him to find out more about the trail and the event.

##### Enduro is a relatively new event to Crankworx. What’s it all about?
Basically, enduro racing is the closest race format to what most of us do on a regular ride: ride to the top at your own pace, and race your friends back down again. Only the downhill portions are timed, and like any good ride, the race will last most of the day. The result of combining the multiple timed descents gives you an overall standing.

##### Micro Climate has an awesome reputation. How do you think it stacks up?
I’m excited to hear feedback from everyone, but in my opinion Micro Climate epitomizes the riding in the Whistler area. It’s fast and technical, and winds its way deep through the forest on Blackcomb. I’ve received a ton of great feedback from some of the best racers in the world.



##### What inspired you to build it?
Micro Climate has been a project over the last few years, and was built primarily with a good friend of mine, Dave Anderson. The inspiration to put the line in came from the beautiful forest it runs through, but our personal goal was to build a trail on Blackcomb that follows a more graded approach, with less fall line descending than the other trails in the area. We’re always looking to create a longer descent.



##### Are you worried about the trail’s condition after the race?
I definitely have my worries. However, looking at it rationally, the trail has already seen a lot of traffic this summer, and has held up pretty well. Whistler’s riding scene is so active that when new trails are built, they are ridden in fast… really fast. We’re also happy to announce that Crankworx has set aside a trail budget to help us repair the trail after the event.



##### What’s it like to be involved from the trail building side?
I’ve raced nearly event at Crankworx, so building a trail is very different, but I’m excited to be a part of Whistler’s riding culture from all angles. I’m really proud to have this trail as part of the [Enduro World Series](http://www.enduroworldseries.com/) (EWS), especially as most of the Crankworx races are on machine-built or bike park style trails.

##### How do you think you’ll do on Micro Climate?
We’ll have to wait and see the results sheet. I would love to do well, but I don’t know whether knowing each corner inside out will help me or make me overthink it! Racing is a mental game, and when it comes to the best in the world, they’re as fit mentally as they are physically.

##### What bike are you racing, and how is it set up?
I’m on the Ghost Cagua 6550 with a Raceface Narrow-Wide single ring drivetrain, Rockshox Reverb seatpost, Rockshox Pike 160mm fork, and high volume tires for hitting trails as hard and fast as possible.



##### What’s the most exciting part of Crankworx for you?
This year, the EWS Canadian Open Enduro is most exciting for me because I have a behind-the-scenes trail building part, and I’m racing. As a spectator, the Red Bull Joyride Slopestyle always has the wildest atmosphere, and is by far the best mountain biking event to watch in the world. Whistler comes alive at Crankworx, and it’s been a ride in itself seeing the events grow.



*Photos of Paul Stevens riding in Squamish by Kaz Yamamura. See more photos by Kaz in [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/KazYPhoto) and [Flickr](https://www.flickr.com/photos/kyamamura/). Trail building and bike photos by Paul Stevens. You can follow Paul on instagram at [@paulostevens](http://instagram.com/paulostevens)*



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