Pembina Nordic JackRabbits Learn to Ski Program
The Jackrabbits Learn to Ski program is part of Nordiq Alberta’s Skill Development Program (SDP) pathway, designed to introduce young skiers to the fundamentals of cross‑country skiing while building lifelong skills, community, and confidence.
For children aged 6 to 9, Jackrabbits serves as the FUNdamentals stage in the Canadian Sport for Life model, teaching both classic and skate skiing technique in a structured yet playful environment. Younger learners aged 4–5 can begin in the Bunnies program, where parent participation is mandatory, ensuring a safe and engaging first look at skiing nordiqalberta.ca.
At Pembina Nordic, our Jackrabbits programming follows this model with three clear options:
The 1‑day/week Jackrabbits and Bunnies program (typically on Sundays) caters to beginners through to intermediate skiers (levels 1‑4), with coaches assessing each child at the start of the season. Registration is $60 for the season, and seasonal gear rentals (skis, boots, poles) are available for $40 if needed. The season runs from December through February or March, weather permitting.
More advanced skiers—those assessed as Level 2 or above—can choose the Competitive stream, training two days a week (Wednesdays and Sundays) from mid‑October priced at $90 for the season, this track focuses on technique refinement, adventure skis, and entry‑level races such as loppets. Our program is volunteer‑run, with parental support highly valued: families commit to providing one snack during the season and help with the annual Pembina Nordic Loppet in January.
Aligned with Nordiq Alberta’s mission to grow accessible, inclusive youth ski development, our Jackrabbits program encourages skill progression, healthy outdoor activity, and community engagement. Whether your child is just starting or eager to race, our club offers a welcoming introduction to the joy of Nordic skiing—training future athletes and lifelong enthusiasts alike.
How to Register
1. How to Register Your Child (Ages 4–5) for the Bunnies Program
The Bunnies Program is for young, first-time skiers aged 4–5.
Step-by-Step:
Step 1: Check the Age Requirement: Ensure your child is 4 or 5 years old at the start of the program.
Step 2: Confirm Sunday Availability: Bunnies runs 1 day per week, typically on Sundays 2PM – 3PM
Step 3: Plan for Parent Participation: A parent or responsible adult must ski with the child during each session (parent rentals available at a discounted rate).
Step 4: Decide on Equipment Rentals: If you or your child need ski equipment, the club offers ski rentals $40/season
Step 5: Register for the Program
Cost: $60 for the season (December to February). Registration link below.
Step 6: Mark Your Calendar
Program starts in December. Dates are weather-dependent and may change.
2. How to Register for Jackrabbits (Ages 6+) – Beginner to Intermediate
The Jackrabbits Program is ideal for ages 6 and up. Skiers are placed in levels from beginner (Level 1) to intermediate (Level 4).
Step-by-Step:
Step 1: Determine Your Child’s Age: This program is for kids 6 years old and up.
Step 2: Choose the 1-Day/Week Option: Typically held on Sundays 2PM-3:30PM
Step 3: Unsure of Skill Level?: No problem. Coaches will assess and place your child at the start of the season.
Step 4: Consider Equipment Rentals: Seasonal rentals include skis, boots, and poles for $40. Rentals can be selected on registration form.
Step 5: Register for the Program:L Cost: $60 for the season (December to February/March)
Step 6: Support the Club
Each family is asked to:
Bring one snack during the season
Volunteer at the Annual Pembina Nordic Loppet in January
3. How to Join the 2-Days/Week Jackrabbits Competitive Program
This is for skiers who have already completed Level 2 or higher and want a more advanced experience.
Step-by-Step:
Step 1: Assess Skill Level
Your child must be at: Jackrabbit Level 2 or higher.
Step 2: Know the Schedule
The program includes dryland training beginning mid-October, then skiing on Wednesdays after 4:00 PM and Sundays 2:00-3:30 PM through February.
Step 3: Understand the Focus
Includes advanced technique, adventure skis, and entry-level competitions 3 Loppets in the season.
Step 4: Get the Right Gear: Seasonal rentals (skis, boots, poles) available for $40.
Step 5: Register for the Program
Cost: $90 for the season
Step 6: Plan to Volunteer
Families are asked to help with:
One snack during the season
Volunteering at the Annual Pembina Nordic Loppet Event in January
How to Get Here
Location: 7010 Township Rd 494. Approximately 10 minutes North of Drayton Pembina Nordic Ski Club members can use their gate code to access the parking lot at the Pembina Nordic Ski Club. If the gate is locked non-members can access the trails from entry points along Township road 494.
Become a member
Our membership helps us maintain the trails, host events and run programs.
Member Benefits
- $10 off adult nordic ski rentals
- Member discount rates for Outdoor Education Centre Rental
- Gate Code for 24/7 parking lot access
- Week long free summer camping through our Summer Host Program
- Access to Jack Rabbit Learn to Ski program and child seasonal ski rentals
- Free rustic cabin rentals
- Alberta Nordic annual membership
Also as a member you are supporting year round trail maintenance and development. As well as supporting programs at the Pembina Nordic Centre.
Memberships are annual, and are not prorated. They renew April/May annually.
Day Use Donations
We sure hope you enjoy your time and the use of the Pembina Nordic trails. Whether that is hiking, biking, snow shoeing, disc golfing or cross country skiing please consider giving a donation to help cover the upkeep of our beautiful trail systems.
Suggested day rate donations:
- $10 single
- $15 couple
- $25 family
E-TRANSFER DONATION
Email to: pembina.nordic@gmail.com