Jackrabbits -

Level 3, 4 & Jackrabbits+

Jackrabbits in levels 3 and 4 will continue to develop classic cross country ski technique while being introduced to skate skiing through games, technique development sessions, and adventure skis. This program focuses on providing children with FUNdamental physical, classic and skate skiing skills to set a firm foundation for sport for life.

For families with a strong interest in cross country skiing, Jackrabbits+ provides an opportunity to ski twice a week, supporting increased development in FUNdamental physical, classic and skate skiing technique. Families may register their child in Jackrabbits+ if they have successfully completed level 2 Jackrabbits.

Families wanting an introduction to biathlon may interested in exploring our Jackrabbit eco-aim program.

Participation in low key regional events such as Edmonton Nordic’s cookie races, the Alberta Cup hosted by Edmonton Nordic, and the Barnebirkie are encouraged for all Jackrabbits as an overall skill development opportunity. It is also a great way to meet other Edmonton Nordic families.

    • Classes are limited to 20 children per session.

    • Edmonton Nordic provides trained volunteer coaches to facilitate this program in alignment with National Coach Certification Program’s Active Start model.

    • All programs are located at Gold Bar Park.

    • A rotating parent helper is needed at each session. Extensive ski experience or ability is not required. Parent helpers will join the groups and help with skier management. Your coach will be in contact regarding sign up closer to the start of the season.

    • 14 lessons (snow dependent) for level 3 & 4, 30 lessons for Jackrabbits+

    • 3 Cookie races hosted by our race teams in December, January and February on Thursday Nights 

    • Nordiq Canada Jackrabbit toque

    • Edmonton Nordic Team Shirt

    • Access to Jackrabbit ski rental program for an additional $100

    • Program Base Cost: $150 for level 3/4, $300 for Jackrabbits+

    • Edmonton Nordic, Alberta Nordiq, and Nordiq Canada memberships are required for program registration

    • Families may choose to purchase their own equipment or can access our rental fleet for an additional $100

    We encourage families of all economic levels to participate in this awesome winter sport. If you face financial constraints for program or equipment costs Edmonton Nordic encourages families to seek support through KIDSPORT, a local program to help lower income families with sport and activity program costs.

  • Option #1: Saturdays 1:30 pm – 3 pm

    • Families looking for a one day a week option in level 3 or 4

    • First Lesson: December 5th, 2026 (*snow condition dependent)

    • Last Lesson: March 20th, 2027 (*snow condition dependent)

    • No lessons – December 26th, January 30th (Alberta Cup weekend), February 13th

    Option #2: Sundays 1:30 – 3 pm

    • For families looking for a one day a week option in level 3 or 4.

    • First Lesson: December 6th, 2026 (*snow condition dependent)

    • Last Lesson: March 21st, 2027 (*snow condition dependent)

    • No lessons – December 27th, January 31st (Alberta Cup weekend), February 14th

    Option #3: Jackrabbits+ Tuesdays 6:30 – 8 pm & Saturdays 1:30 – 3 pm

    • First Lesson: December 1st, 2026 (*snow condition dependent)

    • Last Lesson: March 20th, 2027 (*snow condition dependent)

    • No lessons – December 27th, January 31st (Alberta Cup weekend), February 14th

    Option #4: Jackrabbits+ Tuesdays 6:30 – 8 pm & Sundays 1:30 – 3 pm

    • First Lesson: December 1st, 2026 (*snow condition dependent)

    • Last Lesson: March 21st, 2027 (*snow condition dependent)

    • No lessons – December 27th, January 31st (Alberta Cup weekend), February 14th

  • Parents/guardians provide equipment for participants. Edmonton Nordic is proud to offer a seasonal ski rental program to our Jackrabbit families (see below). All children will begin with classic ski equipment and transition to skate technique as skills progress. (Note: “classic” skis are for use in ski tracks for striding, whereas “skate” equipment is for use on the flattened portion of the trail, beside the track, where skier pushes with the feet in “V” pattern.)

    Jackrabbits should always dress in layers to help adjust for physical activity levels and should come prepared for all weather.  Clothing items include: neck tubes/buffs; warm toque, well-insulated mittens, and winter (not cotton) socks with extras for after the session. Fanny packs with water and a snack are encouraged. As a child advances through the Jackrabbit programming ensuring that they have access to wicking non-cotton base layers becomes more critical. If you are unsure how to dress your Jackrabbit for cross country skiing please do not hesitate to reach out to your coach or our program coordinator. Families wishing to have their Jackrabbit participate in loppets, Barnebirkie, or cross country ski races are encouraged to consider purchasing club clothing at the beginning of the season.

    Rental Equipment:

    Edmonton Nordic is proud to be able to support families needing equipment through our rental equipment program. Through this program we can provide families the opportunity to rent a seasonal ski package that can be used both during lessons as well as on your own time. All registered families will receive an email prior to the start of the season regarding equipment pickup. The cost of this program for winter 2026 - 2027 is $100.

    Level 3

    Children will be learning be introduced to skate skiing while continuing to refine their classic skiing technique.

    • ·Jackrabbits need one pair of classic cross-country skis (skins) and one pair of skate cross country skis.

    • Jackrabbits need one pair of classic ski poles. These can be used for both skate and classic ski technique at this stage.

    • Jackrabbits need one pair of combi ski boots that match their skis bindings. Alternatively, families may choose to have a pair of skate and classic ski boots.

    Level 4 & Jackrabbits+

    Children will continue to work on both their skate and classic ski technique.

    • Jackrabbits need one pair of classic cross-country skis (skins) and one pair of skate cross country skis.

    • Jackrabbits need one pair of classic poles and one pair of skate ski poles. For classic poles the pole with the tip in the snow should fit tightly underneath the armpit. For skate ski poles, the pole when in the snow should reach between the skier’s chin and nose.

    • Jackrabbits need one pair of combi ski boots that match their skis bindings. Alternatively, families may choose to have a pair of skate and classic ski boots.

    Where to Purchase Equipment:

    Parents are encouraged to buy suitable equipment for their children for two main reasons:

    • it is an investment in a positive, fun learning experience

    • good equipment retains its re-sale value – someone will always buy it when you are finished with it.

    Retailers in the Edmonton area that sell ski equipment include

    • Track ‘n Trail (major club sponsor, ask about Edmonton Nordic discount!)

    • Fast Trax (major club sponsor, ask about Edmonton Nordic discount!)

    • Totem Outfitters (used equipment may be available)

    • Mountain Equipment Co-Op

    Used equipment is sometimes available at the Edmonton Nordic Ski Swap, held annually; however, the selection is usually limited. Families may also have success finding second hand equipment on Facebook Marketplace.