Whitewater Ski Resort maintains a network of multi-purpose winter trails. This area provides accessible winter alpine scenery and is available for snowshoeing as well as skiing, fat biking, and dog-walking.
Distance, round trip: 3.6km
Elevation: +100m
Season: mid-December to early April
Difficulty:
EasyTrailhead & Driving Directions
Drive 13km south from Nelson on Highway 6 until you reach the turn-off for Whitewater Ski Road. Continue 10km up the road and park in the Nordic Center parking lot at the ski resort.
Check Whitewater Ski Resort for opening times and trail conditions. Access to the trails is complimentary, but Whitewater likes you to check-in at the lodge and pick up a pass.
Exploring the Loop
The main loop is a groomed trail that is compact enough to walk on without snowshoes. You’ll also see side trails branching off for snowshoes – pick up a trail map at Whitewater Lodge if you want to explore more.
The Cat’s Paw trail is the upper portion of the loop and this leads you across a signed avalanche path. Respect trail closures and do not stop.
The trails descend until they near the Hummingbird Pass backcountry area. Stay on the signed network and follow the loop back. The lower trails are close to the valley bottom and cross Apex Creek twice.
This is a short, easy outing close to Nelson. It’s a great trail network to get a winter alpine experience – you’ll see trees frosted in fresh powder and get beautiful views of Ymir Peak on a clear day.
