Author name: Fort Smith Ski Club

Event

Ski, Search, and Sip! The Annual Candy Cane Ski is THIS SATURDAY!

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Trade your headlamp for a flickering glow! The most magical event of the year, the annual Flaming Pumpkin Ski tradition returns on November 28th at 7:30 PM. This unique night marks the true start of our ski season. We line the entire 1.25km loop with dozens of carved pumpkins, each lit like a torch, transforming the trail into a stunning, illuminated winter path. Come and experience the quiet, mystical atmosphere of skiing by pumpkin-light, setting your own pace, taking as many loops as you wish. After your run, join fellow skiers inside the Nordic Centre to warm up and socialize!

Stories

When the North Shone Bright: Fort Smith, Volunteers, and the Triumphant 2018 Arctic Winter Games

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In March 2018, the Arctic Winter Games transformed the South Slave into the North’s ultimate sports arena, with Fort Smith hosting Cross-Country Skiing events at the Fort Smith Ski Club. The success of this massive undertaking—bringing nine circumpolar teams to Fort Smith—rested on the shoulders of community volunteers. From the tireless Groomers who perfected trails overnight to the dedicated Club members who served as race officials and site logistics managers, the entire town mobilized. This is the story of how Fort Smith’s collective spirit provided an unforgettable stage for the Games’ enduring legacy of competition and cultural exchange!

Stories

From Fort Smith Trails to the World Stage: The Inspiring Story of Sarah Daitch

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The Fort Smith Ski Club proudly celebrates the incredible journey of Sarah Daitch, a local athlete whose career took her from our homegrown trails to the international stage. Starting as a young skier here in the Northwest Territories, Daitch developed into a national competitor, ultimately earning a spot on the Canadian National Nordic Ski Team. She competed at World Championships and World Cup events, bringing immense pride back to Fort Smith. Now a Chartered Mediator, she continues to serve the sport community as an NWT Sport Hall of Fame inductee and former Nordiq Canada Board Member!

Featured Stories

Tracing the Historic Journey of the Thebacha Loppet

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The Thebacha Loppet is more than a ski race—it’s a journey through Canadian history. Established in 1973, it stands as one of Western Canada’s oldest ski tours. The 27.6 km course follows the historic DesNethé Discovery Trail, a traditional First Nations’ portage route used for centuries to bypass the Slave River rapids. Every year, this volunteer-powered event connects skiers to the pioneering spirit of the North. From its centennial clearing in 1967 to the modern race, the Loppet is an enduring testament to community and resilience, proving the North’s winter traditions never fade!

Event

Registration is OPEN: Sign Up for Winter Fun!

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The trails are calling! Registration is officially OPEN for the 2025-2026 season. Signing up on Zone4 is the essential first step to getting ready for a great winter of skiing. Membership supports the grooming and maintenance of our over 30 kilometres of beautiful trails, helps fund youth programming, and ensures you have mandatory insurance coverage. All ages and abilities are welcome to join us for community events and fun. Don’t miss out on Early Bird prices, available until November 30th! Register today and secure your spot on the snow for the upcoming season!

Past Event

Master the Trails: Community Coaching Course Returns!

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Ready to lead the next generation of skiers? The FREE Community Coaching Course is coming to the Fort Smith Ski Club on the weekend of December 6th–7th, 2025. This two-day course is essential for aspiring Jackrabbit program leaders, teaching you how to coach basic classic and skate techniques, design seasonal plans, and prepare equipment for children. The course is open to all—not just current members! Complete the short online prerequisite and register before the December 1st deadline to get certified this winter!

Featured Event

The 2026 Thebacha Loppet: Skiing History

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Join us on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, for the 53rd running of the Thebacha Loppet—one of Western Canada’s oldest and most historic ski tours. This unique event takes place on the DesNethé Discovery Trail, a traditional First Nations’ portage route, offering incredible views along the Slave River. Choose your distance—from the full 27.6 KM challenge starting in Fort Fitzgerald, AB, down to shorter, scenic options. Whether you’re racing or touring, this is an unforgettable way to experience the boreal winter. Registration opens soon!

Past Event

The Flaming Pumpkin Ski: A Torchlit Tradition Returns!

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Trade your headlamp for a flickering glow! The most magical event of the year, the annual Flaming Pumpkin Ski tradition returns on November 28th at 7:30 PM. This unique night marks the true start of our ski season. We line the entire 1.25km loop with dozens of carved pumpkins, each lit like a torch, transforming the trail into a stunning, illuminated winter path. Come and experience the quiet, mystical atmosphere of skiing by pumpkin-light, setting your own pace, taking as many loops as you wish. After your run, join fellow skiers inside the Nordic Centre to warm up and socialize!

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