The Canmore Nordic Centre is tweaking its fat bike policy again by designating specific trails for the growing sport.
Fat bikes have been allowed at CNC for the past four years, but this season, the Canmore Trail, Georgetown Interpretive, EKG and EKG East have been officially designated for fat bikes.
“The Canmore Nordic Centre wants to encourage the use of fat bikes. We see it as a growing and popular winter sport activity. For the first time this year, we are designating some of our single track trails for fat biking,” said CNC area manager Michael Roycroft. “We’ve got volunteer groomers packing down the trails to make it suitable for fat bikes.”
Fat bikes are still prohibited from travelling beyond the EKG East trail, into the wildlife corridor seasonal closure. Riders must also stay east of the meadow.
“We have maps to showcase where the trails are. With the exception of the trails above the EKG Loop, there are a good number of trails suitable for fat bikes,” Roycroft said. “Trails below the Banff trail are also suitable for fat bikes.”
The Nordic Centre is only one location where the province is encouraging fat bikes, although Canmore has the most. Highline Trail and Benchlands Trail are also popular with fat bikes.
“There are areas where you can fat bike in every part of Kananaskis Country, including Kananaskis Village and parts of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. West Bragg Creek also has all season trails suitable for fat bikes,” Roycroft said.
However, the sport’s explosion is also creating concerns for public safety. Fat bikes are capable of reaching avalanche terrain quickly, and Roycroft said proper precautions must be taken to ensure rider safety.
“In winter it can be quite dangerous. Highline Trail crosses half a dozen avalanche paths that are avalanche prone. We are encouraging that if you are going out in terrain that has an avalanche risk, you take precautions. That means you take a probe, shovel and beacon, and ride with one or more people.”
Fat biking is still free at the Nordic Centre, and maps are available with the open routes. Bikes are available for rent at Trailsports, as well as at bike shops including Rebound Cycle and Outside. More information on the sport is available on the Canmore Nordic centre web site.
