Barbara Roden
Caledonia Courier
Those using the Nordic ski trails at Murray Ridge this winter will be able to take advantage of two large kiosks providing trail maps and information, as well as a new outhouse, thanks to a grant from the Northern BC Tourism Association’s Community Tourism Opportunities program and the District of Fort St. James.
The $3,500 grant was given to the Stuart Lake Nordic Society, with the NBCTA and the District each funding 50%. Over the weekend of August 29, volunteers from the Nordic Society erected the kiosks—similar to those found in BC parks—and outhouse. “A big thanks to Al Henderson for donating his backhoe and his time and effort to the project,” says volunteer Paul Inden. “Putting the posts in the ground, digging out the pit for the outhouse: what took him a day would have taken us a week by hand.”
The SLNS works with Murray Ridge to maintain the Nordic trails there, and volunteers use a sled to maintain a trail along the lake, from the National Historic Site past Cottonwood Park to Stones Bay. “They’re very close and convenient for skiers who live in town,” says Inden. “And they’re convenient for walkers as well. The trail gets groomed once a week, and it’s like a sidewalk.”
A family membership for a winter’s-worth of Nordic skiing at Murray Ridge is just $40.00. For more information, pick up a leaflet at the District Office or call (250) 996-8226.