After a slow start to the season, cross-country skiing at Dakota Ridge is underway armed with a fresh dump of snow and groomed trails.
The 1,532-acre plateau opened Thursday with a 100 cm base. It features 20 kilometres of world-class cross-country trails, four kilometres of groomed snowshoe trails, three kilometres of wilderness snowshoe trails and a sledding area.
Dedicated volunteers maintain the network and they remind users that all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles and snow bikes are not allowed in the ski area. However, there is an access trial that can be used to go beyond the ski area during the winter.
“In past years, trails which are impeccably maintained by dedicated volunteers have been destroyed by off-road vehicles which in turn creates hazardous conditions for skiers,” said the Sunshine Coast Regional District.
“It is extremely important for motorized recreational vehicle users to be responsible and respectful of the non-motorized winter recreation area.”
SCRD staff also remind visitors that the road servicing the area is a logging road and while ploughed, winter conditions should be expected.
They ask you to drive with caution, adjust your driving to the conditions and be prepared to pull over or stop if you meet a truck on the road. Access is also restricted to four-wheel drive vehicles with winter tires and chains.
