The Golden Nordic Ski Club is buzzing with anticipation as the 2025–26 ski season approaches. Memberships are pouring in, new programs are taking shape, and volunteers are rallying to get the trails and events ready for another memorable winter at Dawn Mountain.
Programs and Coaching Momentum
This year, the club is thrilled to offer an almost full slate of youth and biathlon programs, thanks to an enthusiastic team of volunteer coaches.
Youth program registration opens Wednesday, October 8, at 8 a.m. through the club’s Zone4 membership form. Families are encouraged to sign up early, as spots fill quickly. The club extends its gratitude to volunteer coaches John, Karyne, Melanie, Julie, Calvin, Yolanda, Rob, Sebastian, and Malcolm, along with substitute coaches Angie, Christine, Hildegard, and Joan.
Additional coaches are still needed for the Bunnyrabbits (age 3) and Saturday Jackrabbits groups. Those interested can contact programcoordinator@goldennordicclub.ca to learn more about coaching opportunities and training support.
Biathlon on the Rise
Biathlon continues to grow in popularity, combining cross-country skiing and precision target shooting with safe, eco-friendly electronic rifles. All biathlon sessions will take place in the Stadium area in front of the Chalet.
The club will cover the $110 + GST coaching workshop fee for volunteers who commit to helping with programs this season. The NCCP Biathlon Community Coaching Workshop on October 19 (day) and October 20 (evening), and there’s still room for more to join the biathlon coaching team.
Registration for youth (ages 8–12), teens (13+), and adult biathlon programs also opens October 8 at 8 a.m. on Zone 4.
New Event: The Dawn Mountain Dust Off
Kicking off the winter season with flair, the club introduces the first annual “Dawn Mountain Dust Off” — a three-day ski gathering from December 5–7. Conceived by volunteer Bryon Howard, the event aims to bring together passionate skiers for a weekend of early-season training, camaraderie, and fun. Space is limited to 40 participants, and registration is now open on the club website.
During the same weekend, Golden will host a CANSI Level 1 Instructor Course, offering skiers the chance to become certified cross-country instructors. Those who complete the course can earn $35 per hour teaching lessons, adult programs, or school groups.
Applicants should have decent skiing skills and are encouraged to undergo an evaluation with the club’s CANSI Level 3 instructor before the course. The course fee includes the required annual CANSI membership, which provides instructors with their insurance coverage.
Signature Events Return
The ever-popular Huckleberry Loppet returns February 7–8, promising a weekend of spirited skiing and community connection. “We’re proud to host skiers from across Alberta and the Columbia Basin,” says Race Director Jeff Dolinsky, who also encourages anyone interested in volunteering to contact volunteers@goldennordicclub.ca.
Another highlight this season will be the Regional Biathlon Festival, taking place February 28–March 1, featuring fun competitions open to all.
Other events to look forward to include Soup & Shoot sessions, moonlight skis, and the Community Day.
None of the club’s success would be possible without its volunteers. Last season alone, over 2,000 hours of volunteer time were recorded — from coaching and trail work to event support and maintenance.
To celebrate and prepare for the new season, members are invited to the Volunteer Day work bee on October 18, starting at 9 a.m. Projects will include FireSmart work and other pre-season tasks, and include a BBQ lunch. Volunteers are asked to RSVP to volunteers@goldennordicclub.ca.
Memberships and AGM
Early-bird membership rates are available until October 31, with several opportunities for in-person registration:
• October 17 at the Wild & Scenic Film Festival hosted by Wildsight at the Civic Centre
• October 22 at The Island Restaurant before the club’s Annual General Meeting (6–7 p.m.)
• November 8 at the GKHAT Ski Swap at the Rec Plex (11 a.m.–3 p.m.)
• The AGM will be held on October 22 at 7 p.m. at The Island Restaurant. Members can enjoy refreshments, hear updates from the past season, and learn what’s ahead. Elections will be held for several board positions, and the club especially encourages younger members to consider joining. Interested candidates can email president@goldennordicclub.ca.
A Community Effort
As the snow begins to dust the peaks around Golden, the club extends a heartfelt thank-you to the many individuals who keep it thriving — from the Board of Directors to trail crews, coaches, and volunteers like Rose Tobias, who coordinates all the volunteer efforts.
The Golden Nordic Club continues to be a testament to what a small mountain community can achieve through shared passion, teamwork, and love for the outdoors.
So grab your skis, sign up for your membership, and get ready for another unforgettable season at Dawn Mountain.
Ski you later!
