• This program is best suited for children ages 8 – 14 who have no or little prior cross country ski experience.

• Classes are limited to 20 youth per session.

• Edmonton Nordic provides trained volunteer coaches to facilitate this program in alignment with National Coach Certification Program’s long term athlete development model.

• 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.

• All programs are located at Gold Bar Park.

• 14 sessions (snow dependent)

• 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

• 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.

Saturdays 1:30 – 3 pm

• 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

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.

Learn to Ski Equipment:

Children in this program will be introduced to classic skiing only.

· One pair of skinned skis that have been sized for the child based on both weight and height are required.

·  Skiers should have a pair of classic or combi boots that match their skis binding.

· Poles will be introduced part way through the winter. Poles should be “classic” length meaning that with the pole tips in the snow, the poles should tightly fit under the armpit.

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.