Ski -Vent-Clic

Ski-Vent-Clic is a non-profit, cross-country ski club, which was formed in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, in the 1970’s by a group of keen skiers and has remained in operation, continuously, for more than 50 years.  It is run by a group of local volunteers, and in the 2021 / 2022 ski season, there were over 250 members. 

The trail runs mostly on private land, and so is only possible with the agreement and support of the local landowners.  It is funded by charging a modest fee for adults 16 years old and over and receives financial support from the Champlain Municipality.

The trail follows a roughly circular path centered on Vankleek Hill, with the main parking area being 1.7km north of Vankleek Hill on Highway 34, at the Prescott Russell Trail.  It is groomed for classic cross-country skiing, with the circumnavigation around Vankleek Hill being between 10.6 and 13.6 km, depending on the route taken.  The total network is around 18 km, and the trail is designated as an official training trail for the Canadian Ski Marathon. 

The trail is located on gently undulating terrain and passes through maple and cedar bush; along an old railroad track (The Prescott Russell Trail); corn fields; open pasture; old farmland; an old gravel pit; apple orchards.   There are many deer in the area, and there are panoramic views of the Laurentians, Mount Royal, the Adirondacks, and the Gatineaus

To get the trail ready for the ski season is a lot of work:  cutting vegetation; removing fallen trees, building and repairing bridges; updating the map; posting signs and trail markers; maintaining equipment; updating the website; getting permission from landowners etc.

During the ski season, typically end December till mid-March, the trail is normally groomed at least once per week, but this varies depending on the weather and conditions.   Trail conditions are posted on the website and on Facebook.

The net result is a ski trail enjoyed not just by those in the local community, but visitors from Ottawa, Montreal and elsewhere.

Thankyou to all those who make this possible:  the volunteers; the landowners; Champlain Municipality.

 4th January 2024