SKI NORTH

Ski North is a NWTRPA program in its fourth year of operation. It's principal objectives are to develop sustainable ski programs in the NWT communities, to increase skier participation, improve ski skills and promote active, healthy lifestyles. These objectives are met by:

Ski North Fund - This year the Ski North Fund is proactively seeking communities rather than accepting proposals.  Please see "Fun Parks" for more information.

Community Coaching/Leadership Training - Ski North recognizes that ski programs depend on ski leaders. Consequently, Coach and Instructor training workshops are a large part of Ski North's mandate. Workshops are tentatively planned for Fort Smith, Inuvik and Yellowknife. Contact the coordinator for more details.  Ski North is also putting together a resource package for teachers, leaders and volunteer skiers to help them play games, teach skills and get skiers really loving the sport.  If you'd like a copy, please contact the ski north coordinator.

Youth Workshops and Events - Ski North is excited to be part of the Fort Simpson Youth Conference (Feb. 26 - 29).  We are also supporting the Top of the World event in Inuvik (April 4,5,6) and a Sahtu Summit (TBA).

Fun Parks - This year Ski North is approaching communities that haven't recently accessed the Ski North Fund to help them build a Fun Park.  Fun Parks are terrain gardens that let cross country skiers learn through play and exploration.  These parks are low maintenance and provide opportunities for change throughout the season.  Fun parks don't need much space, just a small hill and some imagination!  Fun Park communities are also eligible for ski equipment.  If a Fun Park would work in your community, please contact the Ski North Coordinator.

Visiting Communities Across the NWT - In 2008, an ambitious tour of all 5 Territorial regions will bring skis and skiing to literally hundreds of NWT youth. Contact the coordinator for more details about a visit to your region.

February Ski Count - All NWT skiers are encouraged to make a special effort to hit the trails on NWT Ski Day. Like a Christmas bird count or a caribou herd count, Ski North is conducting a ski census on Ski Day. Representatives from ski clubs and schools or even individual skiers, are asked to record and report the number of skiers on Sunday Feb. 10 (Monday Feb. 11 for schools) to the Ski North Coordinator, who will then report on the health of the herds of skiers in the Territories. Participation is crucial: as well as providing important baseline population data - it promises to be a lot of fun!  Prizes and recognition will be awarded to communities with the most students, families and participants. 

Walk & Talk Program - Ski North, with funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada has a Walk & Talk program geared towards adults.  The activity is Nordic Walking, a popular sport in Scandinavia that combines walking poles with regular walking.  Burn up to 40% more calories and work your upper body while reducing the strain on your knees, ankles and hips - all without and extra perceived efforts!  Walk and Talk Nordic Walking Clubs are slated for Wahti, Inuvik, Yellowknife and Sachs Harbour.  If you would like to Nordic Walk, please email the Ski North Coordinator.

Big big thanks to our sponsors who make Ski North possible:

  • Government of the NWT Department of Municipal and Community Affairs
  • NWT Ski Division
  • Conoco Phillips
  • NWTRPA

For more information contact:

Ashley Deavu - Ski North Program Coordinator

Phone (867) 873-5340
Fax (867) 669-6791
adeavu@nwtrpa.org