Kane Valley Trails
50+ km of groomed Nordic ski trails in the beautiful Kane Valley
When winter blows into the British Columbia Interior, the Kane Valley, south of Merritt, becomes a haven for Nordic (cross-country) skiers. With a base elevation of 1160 metres (3800 feet), the timbered valley has a micro-climate that can provide ideal Nordic skiing conditions. The snow is generally dry, seldom more than 1 to 1.5 metres deep, and the air temperature is usually between 0 and -15 degrees Celsius throughout the winter.
The trails are located on Crown land. However, there is privately-owned land adjacent to and within the trail system. The ski trails follow old logging roads and skid trails through open timber and across natural grassy slopes. Our trails are not suitable for skate-skiing, but great for classic skiing on wilderness groomed trails.
Important: The Kane Valley Ski Trails are not patrolled; use at your own risk.
50.9 km
Total Trail Distance
1160m
Base Elevation (3800 ft)
15+ Years
Volunteer Maintained
4 Shelters
Heated Rest Areas
Getting to Kane Valley
The Kane Valley is centrally located near British Columbia’s Coquihalla Highway network. The Valley lies 20 minutes south of Merritt, an hour west of Peachland and an hour north of Princeton.
Best Winter Access:
The best winter access to the ski area is via the Kane Valley Road which joins Highway 97C near Corbett Lake, 18 km south of Merritt.
Alternate Access:
Access to the skiing area is also possible from the western end of the Kane Valley Road near Kingsvale. Take exit 256 (Coldwater Road) on the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) and turn north towards Merritt along Coldwater Road until Kane Valley Road. Turn right.
GPS Address:
250 Kane Valley Road, British Columbia V0X 1W0, Canada
Trail Network – 50.9 km Total
Our trail system offers routes for all skill levels, from gentle beginner loops to challenging backcountry-style trails. All trails are groomed for classic skiing.
Main Trails
Hill’s Homestead – 5.9 km
The longest trail in the system, offering a full wilderness experience.
Kane – 4.5 km
A popular route through varied terrain.
Lynx – 4.1 km
Scenic trail with beautiful forest views.
Raven’s Ridge – 3.9 km
Challenging elevation with rewarding vistas.
Aspen – 3.7 km
Wind through aspen groves and open meadows.
Gulch – 2.4 km
Follows natural terrain features.
Overeasey – 2.3 km
Moderate trail suitable for intermediate skiers.
Andrew’s Loop – 2.3 km
A favorite loop trail for half-day excursions.
Vale – 1.9 km
Connector trail accessing multiple routes.
Tolko – 1.6 km
Named after forestry operations in the area.
Connector & Shorter Trails
Ravine – 1.4 km
Quick descent with scenic ravine views.
Talimont – 1.2 km
Connector between main trail systems.
Manzies – 1.2 km
Short but rewarding route.
Cross-over – 1.2 km
Links multiple trail options.
North – 1.1 km
Northern access route.
Asp – 1.1 km
Gentle beginner-friendly trail.
Skyhigh – 0.9 km
Short climb with open views.
Tillicum – 0.9 km
Easy connector trail.
Neil’s Valley – 0.8 km
Named after early trail builder.
Porter Bypass – 0.7 km
Alternative route option.
Connector – 0.6 km
Quick link between systems.
Harmon Cutoff – 0.5 km
Shortcut option.
Harmon – 0.4 km
Brief connector trail.
Boot – 0.1 km
Short access trail.
On the Trails
Four Heated Shelters:
– Lunch Box – Popular midpoint rest stop
– Moose Lake – Scenic lakeside shelter
– Matthews – Northern trail shelter
– Bertha – Southern access shelter
Trail Markings:
All trails are clearly marked with maps and trail indicators throughout the system. Multiple shelters provide places to warm up and rest.
Dogs Welcome:
Dogs are permitted on all trails on the north side of the Kane Valley Road. New maps and signage showing dog-friendly routes are being developed.
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Please Respect:
– Stay on marked trails
– Classic skiing only – no skate-skiing
– Yield to faster skiers
– Keep dogs under control on designated trails
– Pack out all trash
– Be prepared for backcountry conditions
Safety Notes:
– Trails are not patrolled – ski at your own risk
– Carry water and snacks
– Dress appropriately for winter conditions (-15°C to 0°C)
– Tell someone your plans before heading out
– Carry a trail map
– Cell service may be limited
Emergency:
In case of emergency, make your way to the nearest shelter or parking area. Emergency contact information is posted at trailheads.
Trail Conditions
Trail conditions are updated regularly throughout the ski season. Our volunteer grooming team works to maintain excellent classic ski tracks whenever snow conditions permit.
Current Conditions:
Check our Trail Report page for the most up-to-date grooming information, snow conditions, and weather updates.
Grooming Schedule:
Trails are typically groomed multiple times per week, weather and snow conditions permitting. Grooming updates are posted to our website and social media.
Trail Access
Our trails are maintained entirely by volunteers, and your support makes Nordic skiing accessible to everyone in our community.
Access Options:
– Annual Membership – Individual: $50 | Family: $90
– Day Pass – $10 per person (pay at trailhead boxes)
Membership dues cover trail grooming costs during the ski season, plus trail and shelter maintenance year-round.
Download Maps
Take our trail maps with you – available as printable PDFs or use them on your phone with the Avenza Maps app for GPS positioning even without cell service.
Snowshoeing in Kane Valley
Snowshoeing is becoming increasingly popular in the Kane Valley. While we don’t currently have official designated snowshoe trails, there are many wilderness trails available in the area.
Important: Please do not snowshoe on our groomed ski trails (any smoothed or tracked trails). This damages the ski tracks that our volunteer groomers work hard to maintain.
For More Information:
For information on snowshoeing options in the Merritt area, contact us at info@nicolanordic.com