Saturday, January 23, 2027 · 11:00 AM–1:30 PM · Beaver Lake Pavilion, Mount Royal Park
$40 Early Bird (until December 26, 2026) · $50 regular · Ski rental available on site (about $23, not included)
Once you know the basics of cross-country skiing, it’s easy to ski on autopilot: head down, mind on your to-do list, counting kilometres. This outing is an invitation to ski differently, building your skills while paying closer attention to how each stride feels.
You’ll refine your technique in a small, supportive group and practise using the rhythm of skiing as a moving meditation, something you can bring to every ski outing this winter.
What you’ll do
We’ll begin with a standing grounding exercise, feeling your weight settle into your skis and noticing the cold air and the quiet around you. Then we’ll build on the basics, working on a smoother, more efficient stride and more confidence on gentle hills.
As we ski the trails of Mount Royal Park, we’ll pause along the way to learn meditation techniques you can use while skiing. You might match your breath to the rhythm of your strides, or stop to listen to the creak of the trees, the hush of the snow, and your own breathing. When a section feels challenging, that becomes part of the practice too: noticing what your mind says, letting it go, and taking the next glide.
Why this group is different
- The focus is on skill and experience, not speed or distance.
- Groups are small, usually about 10 people, so Molly can give you individual feedback on your technique.
- You set the pace. No one is racing ahead, and no one gets left behind.
- You don’t need your own gear. Skis, poles, and boots can be rented at the pavilion.
More than a ski lesson
This isn’t just about technique. Your guide’s background shapes the whole experience: she leads with patience, attention to how people are feeling, and no pressure to perform. While this isn’t a therapy session, you’ll be learning from someone trained to help people feel at ease with new and challenging experiences outdoors.
Meet your guide: Molly
Molly has spent many years guiding young people through outdoor education and adventure-based personal development. She holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus on Adventure-Based Therapy from Prescott College, and she brings an experiential, body-centred approach to everything she teaches.
On the trails, Molly is patient and encouraging. As a valued member of our Mindfulness Outdoors team, she’ll make sure you’re in compassionate and supportive hands.
What you may take away
You’ll leave with more confidence in your technique and a few simple ways to use breath and movement to settle your attention on the trails. Research suggests that time spent moving outdoors can lift mood and ease stress, and that practising mindfulness in natural settings may add to those benefits. This is a chance to see how it feels for you.
Curious about the research? Read why spending time in nature is good for your wellbeing on Moire’s blog.
Who it’s for
This event is for skiers who have been cross-country skiing at least once or twice and feel comfortable gliding on flat trails, slowing down, and getting back up on their own. It’s a natural next step if you joined our Introduction to Mindful Cross-Country Skiing on January 9th. You don’t need to be fast or especially fit. Adults of all ages are welcome.
If you’re brand new to cross-country skiing, our Introduction to Mindful Cross-Country Skiing on January 9th is a better place to start. Not sure which event is right for you? Email us at contact@mindfulnessoutdoors.org and we’ll be happy to help you choose.
Before you come
- Renting equipment? Rentals at the Beaver Lake Pavilion are about $23 for 3 hours and are first-come, first-served. Please arrive by 10:30 AM to get fitted, then meet us outside the pavilion’s main entrance. (Rates and hours)
- Dress in warm layers. We’ll be stopping regularly, so you’ll cool down faster than you might expect. Bring mittens (they’re warmer than gloves), a hat, and water. For more tips, see Moire’s guide to staying warm and mindful outdoors in winter.
- Language: The event is led in English. Molly is comfortable in French, so you’re welcome to ask questions or chat with her en français.
- Weather: If conditions aren’t right for skiing, we’ll do a mindful skating session on Beaver Lake instead, from the same meeting point. In case of blizzards, freezing rain, or unsafe ice, the event will be rescheduled.
- Running late? Follow the ski track from the pavilion until you find the group.
- Pendant l'événement: Call or text 514-619-4542. We may not check messages often while on the trails.
- Participation is at your own risk. Here’s the winter trail map if you’d like to get your bearings.
- Refunds and cancellations: Courriel contact@mindfulnessoutdoors.org.
If the ticket price feels out of reach, email us at contact@mindfulnessoutdoors.org and we’ll be happy to explore options.
If you already know your way around a pair of skis and want to enjoy the trails in a new way, we’d love to have you along.
