The idea of this series is to highlight a local skimo training zones. Not the big, rad lines in the backcountry that you go to for huge missions, but the day in, day out, reliable training spots. It could be on piste or backcountry but it’s where you go to crank out intervals or hone your descending.
For our third zone in the series, we have Kylee Toth-Ohler telling us about COP on the edge of the Canadian Rockies.
Where is it?
Winsport (Canada Olympic Park) Calgary. One hour East of Canmore and the Canadian Rockies!
What makes it special?
It is a great way to get some mid week on snow training without leaving the city. It is also fun to connect with mountain friends mid week for some comraderie and training. COP also hosts the first event of the season on the Canadian race calendar – the Vert 180 – in early December!
Where is the trailhead/parking?
Main day lodge for COP in Calgary.
What are the rules?
You can tour up during club time in the area designated we meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:30pm. You have to have a valid 3 hour Nordic pass or a seasons pass to participate.
What is the local training group?
Our local training group is the Calgary Ski Mountaineering Club. It was started last year and between 10-15 people come out to participate in a suggested workout. We also work on skills such as transitions, kick turns, strides, boot pack etc. Participation in the organized portion is voluntary.
What workouts are best to do here?
Intervals! COP is only 150 meters high so it is very conducive to controlled and focused heart rate zone training.
