Skiers taking full advantage of capital region’s cold, snowy weather

Cross country skiers in Ottawa say they’re making the most of the recent frigid weather. CTV’s Camille Wilson reports.

People are grabbing their poles and buckling their bindings as cold and snowy weather in the capital region has helped to get the cross-country ski season off to a hot start.

The 18 kilometre Kichi Sibi Winter Trail is a popular route for beginner and experience skiers alike.

“I’m excited the ski season is starting. I’m glad to just get out and do a little start. I’ve been skiing for over 50 years. I just love the Ottawa ski area because we’ve got these urban trails,” says Mary Beth Pion, who was skiing at Kichi Sibi on Saturday.

“This is the first time out this year and I’m incredibly excited. It’s beautiful out. I’ve been skiing a long time, and the ski trails open so early, so it’s wonderful,” says Nirvaan Meharchand.

The trail snakes along the Ottawa river with a variety of terrain.

“Every year we come down. It’s very close to home so I can leave my house, come down here and do a little ski,” says Pion.

The early start to the ski season has also given a bump to local businesses.

Hugues Tremblay, rental manager of Les Relais Plein Air in Gatineau Park many of his customers have been glad to see the early influx of snow in the area.

“That boosts business a lot. Usually on the weekend it’s busier for us. This year it’s better than last year as well because the winter season started early. For the last month, it’s pretty good,” says Tremblay.

Gatineau Park boasts one of the largest networks of winter trails in North America, with more than 200 kilometres of cross-country skiing trails ranging from flat to hilly with vertical drops.

“It’s an early start and will be very good for the whole season,” says Jacques Dumont, who was skiing at Gatineau Park on Saturday.

“There’s enough snow to get a good ski, both skate and classic, so we’re enjoying it,” says Sebastien Audette.

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