Women on Skis

September 13, 2021

We had a super season last year, although with many modifications due to COVID-19.  We will be having our 2022 planning meeting in the coming months. We are hoping to be able to use the Gatineau Hills this year but planning too far in advance with the changing rules seems to be counter-productive these days.  We hope to have new plans posted early December. Meanwhile – all information below is for last year (2021) which will give newcomers an idea of our program. We will send out an email when plans are firm.

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This is our 39th consecutive season for Women On Skis.  We have adjusted our program to keep everyone safe and conform to the various COVID protocols in our two provinces.  Our first outing was quite successful and those taking part felt comfortable with the safety protocols practiced.  We are  still planning to have outings in various places in the area for all levels of skier when we are permitted to do so.

‘Women on Skis’ welcomes a wide range of skiers: some experience on skis is expected. You will receive skiing tips, meet new friends, have fun skiing  but sadly no après ski lunches.

Our aim is to encourage women of all levels to get out and enjoy winter, to network with others who have similar interests and to experience some of the best cross-country trails in Canada.

Women on Skis is a non-profit program run by a group of experienced volunteer skiers who raise funds for local women’s health and social issues. In recent years we have supported St. Joe’s Women’s Centre, Hospice Care Ottawa, Cornerstone, Eco Equitable, Sexual Assault Centre and Elizabeth Fry. Last year, 2020, we donated $1500 to Nelson House. This year we will be completing our commitment to Nelson House.

Registration: Unfortunately, with COVID, we will have to keep all last minute interaction to a minimum so we have elected to have an ‘all or none’ policy. Membership is for 5 dates in 2021( Jan. 8, 21, Feb. 5, 18, March 5) plus whatever meet and ski dates we can arrange. We hope all members will be able to join us for most.

The location of the ski outings and check-in procedure will be sent to all members two days before the ski date. This will allow us to assess the weather conditions and abide by COVID protocols. We can not accommodate day-of drop-ins. You must be a WOS member to join in the outings.

Our all inclusive Women on Skis membership cost for 2021 is $35. This includes $18 for membership with Cross Country Ski Ontario (XCSO) Nordiq Canada (NC) which covers insurance. If you are already a member of these organizations through another club, the $18 will not be applied to your membership cost if you live in Ontario. If you are a Quebec resident and have joined NC & Ski du Fond Quebec please let us know so we can tell you how to apply for a refund for this duplication if you wish to do so.  If you have any questions, please email womenonskis23@gmail.com.  Members receive discounts from Fresh Air Experience, Bushtukah and Ecoequitable (25% on their Safetube).

Refund Policy: Regretfully we cannot offer refunds. NC and XCSO will not give refunds (the $18 part) and as for the $17 WOS charge, some of it has already gone to processing fees, some will go to our costs and the rest to a very good cause, Nelson House.

Trail fees: Additional trail fees apply at many sites.  We will be making use of the many new Ottawa community trails. We encourage donations to support these trails.

What to Wear and Bring on Outings:

• Layers of clothing are preferable to allow flexibility depending on changes in temperatures.  You should have freedom to move and be well protected from cold, snow and wind.
• Your base layer should wick moisture away from the body.  Cotton will NOT do this.
• A small pack with waxes, scraper and a cork (see photo on right)
• A small personal first aid kit with a whistle
• Snack and liquid replacement
• Spare mitts and socks
• Money to cover trail fees if applicable
• ID including a daytime emergency phone number

At all locations you should have waxed, stretched, warmed up at your car and be ready to ski by the designated time for your group.  To keep group sizes limited , we will either meet at different locations or start 15 minutes apart.  Be sure to note your time and place based on your previous on-line signup and please don’t be late. To avoid crowding, we will be leaving on time.

Any last minute changes will be posted on this website , on our Facebook page and on Twitter (@womenonskis) by 8 am the morning of the outing.   You will also receive an email if you have opted to join our email list.