Lake Windermere is a local tourist attraction year-round. During the summer, sandy beaches offering swimming, kayaking and lounging in the sun are the norm. During winter, once the lake is frozen, ice skating, cross country skiing, hockey games, ice ring or just building a snowman is what's happening. Inside the skating trail, at the end of January, one of Canada's largest outdoor curling bonspiels has taken place for about 35 years.
Information taken from the sign in front of beach house:
World’s Longest Skating Trail
In 2014 the Lake Windermere Whiteway was awarded the world record for the longest skating trail, boasting over 30 KM of ice-skating as well as groomed skate and classic cross country ski trails. The Whiteway offers winter sports enthusiasts an incredible facility, adding to the already abundant list of winter activities available in the stunning Columbia Valley.
The Whiteway was created in 2006 by the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club. The initial intention of the Whiteway was to connect the communities along Lake Windermere during the winter months. It offers 2 access points: one at Kinsmen beach in Invermere and one at Windermere Beach.
The Whiteway stays in world-class shape through each season thanks to maintenance performed by the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club. The club asks for a small donation fee of $5 per use which can be deposited in the drop boxes at the information kiosks along the trail.
Annual memberships allow for unlimited use of the Whiteway and are available at the kiosks or online at tobycreeknordic.ca.