The Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park is set to welcome Canada’s top emerging cross-country skiers this winter. From January 28 to February 1, 2026, the venue will host the Nordiq Canada World Junior/U23 Selection Trials alongside the Western Canadian Championships.
Organized by Nordiq Canada in coordination with Alberta Parks and the Canmore Nordic Ski Club (CNSC), the event serves a dual purpose: crowding Western Canadian champions and selecting the athletes who will represent Team Canada at the World Junior and U23 levels.
“Hosting major events for athletes in all corners of Canada is critical to the continued growth of our sport and for developing a new generation of Canadian cross-country skiers into elite international athletes,” said Julie Beaulieu, Sport Development Director at Nordiq Canada.
Race Details & Local Hopefuls While specific formats are subject to change, the competition will follow International Ski Federation (FIS) rules and is expected to include sprint, interval-start, and mass-start races. Race days are scheduled from Jan. 29–Feb. 1, with official training beginning on Jan. 28.
Canmore native Xavier McKeever is among the high-profile locals aiming to use a strong performance on home snow to secure his spot on the national team.
Venue & Logistics The Canmore Nordic Centre, a legacy venue of the 1988 Winter Olympics, continues to be a hub for elite skiing, having recently hosted the 2024 COOP FIS World Cup and the 2025 Nationals.
Visitors and spectators are reminded that a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for all vehicles. Due to the scale of the event, temporary parking restrictions may be in place to manage congestion. Organizers will be recruiting dozens of volunteers for roles ranging from course marshals to shuttle drivers.
For volunteer sign-up and specific parking updates, visit the Alberta Parks events calendar
