The Tweedsmuir Ski Club has been hard at work this past year constructing a brand-new cross country ski cabin located at the head of the meadow loop trails up top. While still in construction phase, the cabin will be functional enough for use this winter.
The Tweedsmuir Ski Club cross country skiing area is an incredibly beautiful circuit of 30 km of trails all maintained by dedicated volunteers and are heavily used by locals both in Bella Coola and neighbouring communities of Anahim, Nimpo, and Tatla Lake.
There are four options of different loops available free of charge. It is not uncommon to see all ages of skiers out on the trails, and the cabin will be a welcome addition for those with younger children.
“By late November or early December we will have it to the windows and door stage,” said Tweedsmuir Ski Club President David Flegel. “We will get the wood stove in this winter and at least we can stand around the stove and be out of the wind, but it won’t be toasty warm because the ceiling inside is still open and unfinished.”
90 percent of the funding for the cross-country cabin has come through BC Parks Tweedsmuir Park Enhancement Fund, and has been constructed by 100 percent volunteer labour.
The club is seeking donations of funding to finish the cabin; it’s estimated that about $7000 is needed to get the remaining work done.
“The next steps or phase is to put up, soffits, railings, insulation, interior finish on the walls, exterior siding and staining and next summer build an outhouse,” said Flegel. “We are currently seeking funding to finish it. We received some targeted donations from individuals and the Tour de Bella Coola bike ride last spring, as well as a small amount of the Tweedsmuir Ski Club funds.”
The overnight cabin located at East Branch has proved to be very popular, often booking up well in advance. Although designed for day-use only, there is little doubt this cabin will prove to be just as popular.
“A huge thank you to David Flegel who provided the brains and the expertise behind the project, not to mention countless hours of volunteer labour constructing the cabin,” said Kerry Boileau, Director of Special Events and Cabin Reservations. “Lyle Enderud also deserves a huge thank you for all of his volunteer labour with the cabin construction, in addition to his endless hours of ski grooming.”
Boileau said that the cabin should be to “lock-up” by this season.
“Basically we will have a windbreak/snowshelter with an amazing view!” she said. “With the wood stove installed you’ll at least be able to warm your hands and melt your grilled cheese sandwich.”
Those interested in donating to the cabin fund or becoming involved in the Tweedsmuir Ski Club can contact tweedsmuirskilclub@gmail.com or check out their website www.tweedsmuirskiclub.com