Skis for Schools Q&A

How do I make a booking?

After finding an available date on our Booking Calendar, send an email request to our Program Coordinator at skisforschoolskswt@gmail.com.

How much time should we plan for our visit?

For most, a 3-hour visit is typical.  This allows about 20-30 minutes to get geared up, 1 to 2 hours of ski time on the K-Trail, and 20 minutes to collect equipment and wrap up.

Do you offer instruction/ski lessons?

While we would love to offer ski instruction with your visit, we are not yet set up to do so.  The good news is that cross country skiing is an easy skill to learn, and having the opportunity to try it out is the best way to get started!  

It is recommended that you bring lots of support with you in the form of volunteers (these can be individuals with or without ski experience themselves), which will allow for smaller groupings of students and a more positive experience.

Do you have equipment for adults?

The bulk of our equipment is for students, however we have enough equipment to outfit adult volunteers if needed.

How many skiers can you accommodate?

We typically book one class of students at a time.  We can accommodate groups of up to 35 participants.

If arriving by bus, where do we tell our driver to drop us off/pick us up?

Our home base is located in the “Nordic Village”, adjacent to the public parking lot at Remic Rapids.  Enter the parking lot (from either the east or the west) from the Kichi Zībī Mīkan.

What weather elements should we prepare for? 

Prepare for a variety of weather conditions by dressing in layers (think: wick, warmth and weather).  Given our location next to the river, wind can play a significant factor in cold temperatures.  

A hat is essential, and it is suggested that students bring an extra pair of socks and mittens for insulation and to replace any clothing that may get wet.  Best to wear clothing that sheds the snow.  Sun protection may also be a consideration.

What happens if we need to cancel? 

Contact the Skis for Schools Coordinator as soon as possible via email should you need to cancel for any reason.

If trail conditions are not suitable for a safe ski experience, the Skis for Schools Program Coordinator will contact you in advance of your visit.

I see that you do “Pre-visits”.  What is involved? 

During a pre-visit the Skis for Schools Program Coordinator will come to your school to meet with students in advance of their ski day.  Included in the presentation are stories from the K-Trail, an introduction to ski equipment and a discussion of how to dress for skiing.  A networked computer with a projector allows for the sharing of a visual presentation during the visit.  Previsit presentations generally last about an hour.  Schools with multiple classes visiting the K-Trail are encouraged to put 2 to 3 classes together for a group presentation.

Do you have washroom facilities? 

Yes, there are permanent outdoor washroom facilities at Remic Rapids.

Is there a main building or shelter where we can keep our stuff?

You will find an outdoor gathering area at the Nordic Village where students may leave their snow boots while skiing.  Students are encouraged to bring their belongings (snacks and extra clothing) in a backpack.  

We do not have an indoor facility that accommodates a large group of students.

Can we eat lunch or a snack there? 

Absolutely!  There are log benches and picnic tables where students can enjoy a bite to eat … or take a snack in your pocket to enjoy in the woods or on the trail.

How do we make our donation, and where does the money go? 

We appreciate your financial donations in support of the Skis for Schools Program.  They help to cover the cost of purchasing and repairing equipment as well as the costs of grooming and maintaining the trail network.

Donations may be made on the donation page of the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail website (wintertrail.ca).  

If paying by cheque, make it out to “Kichi Sibi Winter Trail”, and mail it to:  

Kichi Sibi Winter Trail 

378 Selby Avenue 

Ottawa, Ontario

K2A 0A1

Don’t see your question?  

Send us an email (skisforschoolskswt@gmail.com) and we will answer it for you.