Improve skiing technique and fitness while building confidence and community on the trails!
For skiers ages 19 and up, the Masters XC program provides participants option to ski classic, skate, or both techniques in a group of up to 10 participants, at 3 skill levels – Novice, Intermediate, Advanced.
This program strikes a thoughtful balance between skill development and connecting with others who share similar interests and abilities. As a general guide, sessions are structured with approximately 20–30% instruction (tips, techniques, and drills) and social skiing for the remainder of the time. Sessions are relaxed, friendly, and fun, led by a dedicated team of qualified volunteer leaders who guide participants through learning opportunities and distance skiing.
The program runs twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays, with a morning and evening option for the Thursday. Group options for Thursday evening are more limited, and it is primarily skate skiing. Please register for your preferred option:
- Thursday and Sunday 10:00am to 12:00pm (optional après-ski social after each session.)
- Thursday 6:00 – 7:30pm and Sunday 10:00am to 12:00pm (Thursday the lodge is open until 8:00pm / Sunday optional après-ski social after session).
The Master’s XC program is ideal for skiers who can comfortably ski 4 km in 40 minutes on flat or gently rolling terrain (such as Woodland Bell). It is not intended for beginners. We recommend participants have at least one season of skiing experience.
Please note:
- This is not a drop-in program. All participants must be registered for the season.
- Night sessions are primarily skate skiing. If five or more skiers prefer classic, a classic group will be added.
Dates: January 7 – March 14, 2027
Cost: $290 *An SLNC season pass is required for participants in this program.
MASTERS XC PROGRAM
Meeting Place: Sovereign Lake Stadium in front of the Tech Building
Ski Ability: Be able to ski 4 km in 40 minutes
Group Descriptions (Classic and Skate):
- Novice: You have a basic fitness level and meet the minimum ski requirement (able to ski 4 kilometres in 40 minutes on flat to gently rolling terrain, for example, Woodland Bell). You want people to ski with and some tips to get you moving more efficiently.
- Intermediate: You’ve been cruising around the green and blue ski trails for a season or so. You can ski uphill and downhill on easy terrain and can ski the equivalent of going to Sovereign’s Black Prince Cabin and back (5 km round trip). You want to refine and increase your skiing skills to gain confidence and explore more challenging trails.
- Advanced: You are a fit and fast advanced skier looking for the next level of efficiency. You are ready and able to work hard.
- Apres Ski: We are back in the lodge but moving downstairs for our after-session treat and hot drink social. Would love some volunteers to be able to help set up before the practice sessions.
Meet the Team!
Thank You to our volunteer leaders and instructors for their time and energy.
Please talk to your leader/ Masters XC Coordinator or Programs Administrator if becoming a leader interests you. We will put you on the path to becoming a fearless leader!
Masters XC Coordinator
What is SLNC Masters about?
Group-based social skiing with varying degrees of structured skill development.
It’s summed up in the three Fs
Fitness: you don’t have to be very fit to join Masters but participation will help you to raise the bar.
Form: you will learn to ski more efficiently.
Friendly: all happens in a friendly environment.
What it’s not
It is not a boot camp, as in rigorous and intense training sessions.
See our Masters Training Group if you are looking for a higher level of training
Goals of the SLNC Masters Program
- To provide structure and support whereby club members have the means to raise their level of fitness and improve their skiing proficiency.
- To provide support for those who want to compete
- Keep all participants informed of events and activities
- SLNC Masters is still the best program for the money in the country, bar none.
- The program is club and membership-based, organized and delivered by club members.
- Technical support for certain sessions will be led by the head coach
New Initiatives
- To encourage recreational club skiers to participate in SLNC Masters.
- To provide small group tips and tricks sessions.
- To organize social events eg. potlucks
- Goal setting and training for competitive skiers on key events.
General Questions
What would happen if people joined and were not able to meet the minimum requirements?
You will be refunded and can sign up for either private or group lessons through the lodge.
