PLAY SHINNY AT ALTITUDE
Grouse Mountain, BC
As one of this country’ s grandest traditions, pond hockey holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of all Canadians, from Boundary Peak, Yukon, all the way to Cape Spear in Newfoundland.
Starting in November and running through to April( weather permitting, of course), Grouse Mountain, the Peak of Vancouver, brings a heightened reverence to this cultural icon. The Ice Skating Pond, an 8000-squarefoot outdoor rink near the Peak Chalet, offers the most unique game of shinny anywhere in North America.
Grab 15 of your friends, toss all the sticks into a pile and pick teams. Then, get set for an unforgettable three periods with mountain air coursing through your lungs while the mountain peaks and Vancouver skyline frame your slapshots. Score!( www. grousemountain. com)
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GROUSE MOUNTAIN
DOGSLED THE GREAT BEYOND
Whitehorse, Yukon
Spanning 1600 km in length, the annual Yukon Quest International Dog’ s Sled Race stands out as one of the most gruelling challenges anywhere on our planet. If mushing a thousand miles from Yukon to Alaska in the dead of winter isn’ t your thing( yet), the Yukon Quest Viewing Trip from Muktuk Adventures provides the next best alternative.
The trip allows you to experience firsthand the incredible demands adventurers face throughout the race. You’ ll shadow participants, experience a few days of your own mushing, and take part in more sane winter fun, such as ice-fishing, snowshoeing, and a trip to a wildlife preserve replete with hot springs.
February is when you need to go— but if that won’ t work with your schedule, Muktuk has other adventurous options taking place throughout the winter months.( www. muktuk. com)
PHOTO COURTESY OF STEFAN WACKERHAGEN
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