Regularly held toward the end of January, this year’s Nipika/Toby Creek Nordic Loppet Weekend will take place on February 2 and 3. Competitors have until Thursday, January 31 to register, and must do so online at www.zone4.ca. Registration, also available at the event, costs $5 and will be collected at the competition. Events begin at 11 a.m. on both days.

Saturday offers the classic-style events. Men and women throughout every age group are invited to race in a 30km, 15 km, 5km and 1.5km route. Sunday is the skate-style event, where 20km, 10km, 4.5km, 3km and 1.5km routes will be available for each participant to compete in different age categories.

The north side of Nipika Mountain Resort will see skiers weave throughout the trail system, and present some challenging climbs and technical descents. Both courses are well-maintained and offer beautiful scenery.

Men and women who finish in top place according to their age and gender will receive awards. Two-day time totals will be measured to deliver a special prize for the top male and female finishers.

Nipika’s next event after the Loppet Weekend is the Crazy Soles Trail Run — a running event with routes up to 25km that takes place on Saturday, June 1.