A large group came out for the trail opening in spite of the cold, windy weather.
-by Beverley Phillips
Despite the cold, blustery weather, nearly 30 people came out for the ribbon-cutting of a new cross-country ski trail on January 25th in Margaree.
Ski Margaree hosted a “Try it” event at the Cranton Cross Road Community Centre to celebrate the trail opening and to encourage people to try the sport. About 15 people came out to try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing with Michelle Richards, Cape Breton’s ski ambassador. To avoid spending too much time in the frigid outdoors, some activities took place inside.
After the lessons, the crowd warmed up with homemade chili, rolls, and hot drinks provided by local volunteers and outdoors enthusiasts.
Ski Margaree Trail Society Vice President Dorothy Hart, local councillor Blair Phillips, and Vice President of Cross Country Nova Scotia Eileen Woodford made speeches before going to the trailhead for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. They were joined there by more ski enthusiasts, and about 30 people in all enjoyed the 2.5 km trail and bonfire.
The Ski Margaree Trails Society board would like to thank all those who were part of making the event such a success, including the Municipality of the County of Inverness for their support through the Winter Active program with equipment loans and funds towards the event, and the community support from volunteers, local businesses and organizations such as the Margaree Co-op, Cranton Cross Road Community Centre, Aucoin Bakery, and Rose’s Sweets. A special thank you also goes to board member Sadie Thomas-Frye, who was largely responsible for planning this event.
For an organization that was only established a few months ago, the Ski Margaree Trails Society board is pleased with its accomplishments this year. They plan to continue working with landowners in hopes of creating more trails in the years to come.