Nakkertok Nordic (South)
I had a wonderful time skating today. I'm not 100% sure which trails, as I encountered a few not-yet-groomed trails. So I simply followed the grooming, mostly staying south of the stadium area as I didn't feel too energetic today. One of the nice treats skiing here (aside from twists, hills, scenery, great grooming and awesome facilities) is the ability to ski on a flat, perfectly groomed trail. This is the pooch loop and I found it very satisfying today, to do skate several loops to work on my technique without having to climb anywhere - a distinctly relaxing change from the park where I usually ski. Yay, Nakkertok!
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Nakkertok has a network of about 75km of skating, classical and backcountry trails at two locations just north of Ottawa in the Gatineau Hills.
Nakkertok South is the main attraction offering groomed skating and classic skiing, chalets, races and children's programming. There are lit trails for night skiing. Club membership, or a day-use fee required for skiing. Located 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa in Cantley, Quebec, Nakkertok South has a heated ski chalet with benches and tables, and places to store your gear. It's a great place to change your boots, warm-up, and socialize to meet other master skiers or club members. The trails at South are groomed for skating and classic skiing with a state-of-the-art Pisten Bully groomer. Two loops are lit at night. The trails at South form more or less a grid, extending for about 4 km north into the bush and slightly higher country. These offer enjoyable skiing, and are suitable for beginners, with the exception of a few short stretches.
Nakkertok North trails are quite demanding, and only occasionally groomed (Fridays). They offer a refreshing backcountry wilderness experience for those with good skiing skills. The trails at Nakkertok North are almost always quiet. The annual Nakkerloppet event in February is a great opportunity to discover these trails by making the North to South crossing.
