We have just updated this page for the 2024-2025 winter season.
Instructors Emily, Susan and Tarah will be offering adult classic and skate lessons for beginners and intermediate skiers through private or semi-private lessons. Tarah is a Level 3 CANSI instructor and will also be offering advanced lessons.
Most lessons will take place at the Elk Valley Nordic Centre, located a few minutes drive from downtown Fernie. Meet at the staging area outside the warming hut. Some lessons will take place at the Fernie Golf Course. At this location, meet at the FNS kiosk just outside of the Clubhouse. Your instructor will confirm the location and meeting place. Your instructor will confirm the cost and the duration of the lesson.
Preparedness
- Payment for your lesson must be made BEFORE your lesson starts.
- Please come prepared for all types of weather (cold, wet, snowy, windy, sunny, etc) as your comfort is your responsibility and we may not have access to the hut to warm up cold toes. Lessons may be rescheduled in the event of extreme weather.
- Please make sure you have the right equipment properly sized for your weight/ability. We do not have rentals. Contact Tarah for questions about equipment and rentals BEFORE your lesson.
- Please ensure that you have a day pass or club membership at the time of your lesson. Day passes are available online HERE.
Please contact us to book a session
Any questions? Get in touch with us!Make your online payment
Once your lesson has been confirmed, you will be requested to make an online payment:
Option 1: send an e-transfer to info@fernienordic.com
Option 2: pay by credit card using the Payment button below
Frequently Asked Questions
Coach Qualifications
We currently have three instructors who are CANSI certified.
Scheduling of lessons
Each instructor will be available at different times during the winter season. Contact us with your day/time preferences and your nordic ski goals. We will get you in touch with an instructor.
Lesson Types
Private lessons are offered by each instructor. It is also fun and more economical to learn in a group, so if you have some friends with similar nordic skills and goals, you may choose a semi-private or a group lesson.
The lessons may be for absolute beginners in the classic ski or skate ski technique. Or intermediate/advanced skiers may just be looking to improve their technique and performance.
- Beginner 1 : first time on skis
- Beginner 2 : feel confident on various terrain types – no previous lessons
- Intermediate : have had a lesson or have 2 + years of experience skiing
- Advanced : very confident on skis, looking to improve performance or technique
Lessons
If you have a special request, please let your instructor know when you get in touch with us. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver prior to the lessons.
Payments
Once you have confirmed a time and the number of participants with your instructor, please make the payment in advance of the class to confirm your session. Payment details can be found elsewhere on this page.
What to Wear?
Dress in layers so that you can adjust your clothing accordingly. A hat and neck warmer are very helpful for maintaining your body warmth. Nordic specific gloves or mittens help with grip and are more user friendly with ski pole straps.
Gear fit is Important
If you have questions about your gear, discuss with the local outdoor stores that sell Nordic gear or a specialty Nordic shop. Fit really does matter!
Equipment Rentals
We do not offer or arrange any rentals of ski equipment. A few local shops have cross country ski gear available for rent. They are located either in downtown Fernie or at the Fernie Alpine Resort. More details on this page.
Gift Certificates
Thinking of offering a present to a friend? We offer gift certificates for ski lessons. Just let us know the details when you contact us. Certificates may be picked up locally or mailed out.
Cold Temperatures
Fernie gets cold and windy from time to time. Sometimes conditions are not suitable for learning. Instructors or participants may need to reschedule a lesson in extreme conditions.
Your Instructors
 |  |  |
| Tarah Leggott CANSI Level 3 | Emily DeFreitas CANSI Level 1 | Susan Smith CANSI Level 1 |
| Tarah Leggott is a CANSI Level 3 instructor that is passionate about cross country skiing as a lifelong, family-oriented sport that can be pursued competitively or as recreation in our beautiful, little corner of BC. | Emily has been cross country skiing for over 20 years. She grew up as a competitive racer for Foothills Nordic in Calgary. She has coached in adult and youth programs in both Calgary and Whistler. “I’m looking forward to connecting with the Fernie ski community and helping you reach your nordic goals!” | Susan is passionate about nordic skiing and she looks forward to helping you and your family to become more efficient and dynamic on your skis. She combines her knowledge of body mechanics and CANSI training to target your individual needs. |