CLOSED FOR THE SEASON - SEE YOU IN THE FALL
Junior Development Program: Start to Glide (9-12 years old)
This program is sponsor by
Start to Glide Program Schedule
A beginner-friendly cross-country ski program for ages 9–12. Learn the fundamentals, build confidence on skis, and develop the skills needed to explore easy trails safely and independently.
Practice Day | Time | Starts | End |
|---|---|---|---|
Saturday | 3:00 - 4:30 pm | November (TBD) | March 27, 2027 |
Note:
- There are no sessions during the Christmas holidays (December 21, 2026, to January 3, 2027)
- Sessions are cancelled at temperatures of -25°C or colder (see Cold Weather Guidelines).
Location: Whitehorse Nordic Centre, meet inside the main chalet.
Sessions are held outdoors for the full one-and-a-half-hour duration. No snacks or water are provided, so please ensure your child has eaten, is hydrated, and has used the washroom before each session.
Registration Fees - REGISTRATION OPENS IN SEPTEMBER
Rates 2026/2027 | Program | Season Pass | Rental |
|---|---|---|---|
JDP Start To Glide | $100 | $80 / $90 after Oct 31 | $75 |
Please note:
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Only program fees are due at registration.
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Age: Your child must be at least 9 years old by January 1, 2027, to participate in the program.
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A WNC season pass is required for all participants in this program.
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All participants must wear their passes while skiing.
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Rentals must be arranged in person at the Nordic Centre (see program rental details).
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All communication will be sent by email. The program coordinator will reach out to you 2 weeks before the first day of regular programming. If you have any questions about the program, contact the program coordinator at jdp912@whitehorsenordic.ca
Refund Procédure:
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Program fees are not refundable except in cases of injury or illness, in which case there will be a $20 administration fee and a prorated refund based on the remaining time left in the program from the time the injury/illness is reported.
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A doctor's note must accompany requests for refunds for injury or illness.
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Program registration is non-transferable.
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The Program Coordinator and General Manager may grant refunds for youth programs for other reasons on a case-by-case basis.
The Start to Glide Program is designed for children ages 9–12 who are new to cross-country skiing or looking to build confidence on skis. With one session per week, participants learn the fundamental skills needed to travel comfortably and safely on easy (green) trails, including uphill, downhill, and flat terrain.
This program follows a lesson-based format, focusing on skill development, confidence, and enjoyment. It is an ideal entry point for older children who may be new to the sport and want to develop the same strong foundations that younger skiers build in the Bunny and Jackrabbit programs.
To support learning and individual attention, groups are limited to 10 participants.
Program goals:
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Develop confidence on skis
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Learn fundamental classic and skate skiing skills
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Build balance, coordination, and fitness
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Become comfortable skiing on easy trails
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Develop safe uphill, downhill, and flat-terrain skiing skills
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Encourage a lifelong enjoyment of cross-country skiing and outdoor activity
Question about the program? Email jdp912@whitehorsenordic.ca
Start to Glide vs Track Attack
Not sure which program is the best fit? Here’s a simple comparison to help guide your choice.
✔ 1 session per week (1.5 hours)
✔ Designed for skiers who are new to cross-country skiing or still building confidence
✔ Lesson-based format focused on learning fundamentals
✔ Small groups (maximum 10 participants)
✔ Learn uphill, downhill, and flat-terrain skills
✔ Build confidence on easy (green) trails
✔ Ideal for skiers who want to develop a strong foundation before taking on longer outings
✔ Available as a 1-day or 2-day per week program (1.5 hours each)
✔ Designed for skiers with an established interest and ability in the sport
✔ Focus on skill development, fitness, teamwork, and trail exploration
✔ Classic and skate skiing
✔ More trail skiing, games, drills, and group adventures
✔ Suitable for skiers comfortable on a variety of trails and longer outings
✔ Ideal for children who already enjoy skiing and want more challenge and time on snow
Which program should I choose?
Choose Start to Glide if your child:
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Is new to cross-country skiing
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Is still building confidence on skis
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Prefers a structured, lesson-based environment
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Wants to learn the fundamental skills needed to ski easy trails independently
Choose Track Attack if your child:
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Already has a solid foundation in cross-country skiing
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Is excited about longer ski outings and exploring trails
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Wants more time on skis and a higher activity level
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Enjoys skiing as one of their main winter activities
Important Note
Track Attack is not a racing or race-training program. While participants may have opportunities to take part in local ski events, the focus remains on skill development, teamwork, fitness, and enjoyment of the sport. Competitive training pathways are available through Cross Country Yukon Squad programs.
Cold Weather Guidelines
Temperatures are based on Environment Canada readings at the Whitehorse Airport (without wind chill).
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-20°C or warmer: Regular sessions run as scheduled.
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-21°C to -24.9°C: Sessions may be shortened to 1 hour
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-25°C or colder: Sessions are cancelled.
Parents are encouraged to use their own judgment regarding weather conditions and their child’s comfort level. The Program Coordinator may also cancel sessions due to additional factors such as wind, humidity, or precipitation.
Cancellation notices will be sent by email:
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By 11:00 AM for Saturday sessions
If you do not receive a cancellation email, the session is running as scheduled. Please dress for the weather!
Need financial support?
Check out these programs >
Supports sport and recreation for ages 18 and under:
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Kids Rec Fund: Can be used for activity registration, sports equipment, CGC membership. Up to $500 per child
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KidSport: Can be used for sport program registration only. Up to $250 per child.
Contact Sport Yukon at (867) 668-4236 or visit their website.
Funding is available to support children ages 4 to 18 participating in sport and recreation (up to $300 per year).