THE BATTLEFORDS - North Battleford winter recreation options are plentiful. The city’s website, Parks, Trails, and Sports Fields | City of North Battleford includes a detailed list of options residents have the opportunity to take in this winter while enjoying their winter experience outdoors.
In addition to skating and shinny options at local arenas, outdoor recreation has plenty to offer.
Cross-country skiing is a fun way to get out and stay active during winter. North Battleford offers a variety of ski trails, along with grooming schedule and trail conditions updated regularly on the city’s website. Ski trails include Centennial Park, located behind the Access Communications Centre and the wide-open space provides adequate light for the night skier. Holy Family School Park has a short trail designed by residents and offers an easy, flat trail for beginners.
Finlayson Island has trails groomed on both sides of the island and are well protected from the wind through wooded areas. As well, skiers can enjoy the North Shore Trail along the north shore of the river, offering a 5.5 km loop.
For ski trails, it is important to note that dogs are not permitted and skiers are asked to step off the trail for faster skiers coming through.
The Don Ross Toboggan Hill, beside the Don Ross Arena is a popular winter option for sled enthusiasts of all ages. The North Battleford Lions Club provided lights for this hill. The city’s website also regularly updates hill conditions.
If an outdoor rink is more your style, you have six of them to choose from. Weather permitting, these outdoor rinks are flooded and scraped daily and are suitable for skating, hockey and broomball. Amenities like benches, picnic tables and public restrooms are also available. Outdoor rinks are located at Centennial Park, Connaught Community School, Fairview Heights, Killdeer Park, Riverview and St. Mary’s School.
Check with the Twin Rivers Curling Club as there may be new recreation leagues or upcoming bonspiel events that might interest you.
If you desire a warmer winter experience, check out the indoor pool for options available at The Battlefords Co-op Aquatic Centre.
It might involve a bit of travel but close to the Battlefords are ice-fishing opportunities on Jackfish and Murray Lake once the season opens.
Table Mountain is a short 25-minute drive from the Battlefords and offers downhill skiing, ski lessons, snowboarding and their tubing hill.
If snowmobiling is what you love about winter sports then check out the Battlefords Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club information site for details on trails and opportunities nearby. They also have a Facebook page.
