If you are looking for a different place to cross country ski this winter, try the Frost Centre. Located near Dorset in the north-east corner of Muskoka, right against the Haliburton Highlands, the Leslie M. Frost Natural Resources Centre offers

25 km of trails groomed for classic skiing. Seven stacked loops of trails provide access to a winter wonderland that features rugged terrain, mixed hardwood forests, majestic stands of white pine and hemlock, cliff top lookouts and frozen waterfalls. A few of the trails, such as the Marten trail, do have some technical downhill sections, making speed control essential. But on the whole the trails are suited for almost any level of skier.

  The Fox trail is an access point to all the other trails. The Fox trail terrain is generally suited to the intermediate with small ups and downs through the body of the trail but is most memorable for the hills at the start and finish. Graded: Intermediate. The Bunny trail lives up to its name very well. This is an excellent beginner or first time skier trail. It is short, flat and even. It makes a perfect first time ski or a warm up before attempting a more challenging trail. Real beginners might choose to walk up the first hill as they start from the parking lot. Otherwise, Graded: Beginner

  The Beaver trail has an excellent mix of everything that cross-country skiing is about. Nice flat areas to get into the groove, a series of ups and downs as well as several majestic views from the trail. If you only have a chance to ski one of the Frost Centre trails this is the one to choose. Graded: Intermediate. The Martin trail is the only trail where speed control is essential. There is a steep but straight hill before two breathtaking vista lookouts. They alone are worth the ski to anyone who feels comfortable with the steep downhill that follows them. The Flying Furlong is an excellent challenge for a skier who enjoys a bit more thrilling ride. Graded: Advanced.

  The Bear trail, (don’t worry, the bears are all hibernating right now)  is not only an access trail for the Deer and Moose trail but also an excellent trail by itself. It starts off with several kilometers of flat groomed trail to get you in the groove and than changes to some gradual sloping hills. There is a challenging descent just before the bear ski shelter, which is a perfect spot to warm up with some hot chocolate and re-wax your skies. The second half of this trail has some other fairly challenging and technical hill sections making it a perfect choice for anyone who wants a good workout. Graded: Intermediate.

  Due to the distance of the Deer trail it is not for every skier. Those who decide to take the time to ski this trail will not be disappointed. This trail has long rolling hills that meander through hardwood forest. The Deer trail ski shelter is a perfect distance for a trail lunch and chat about all the wildlife you have seen while on route. Graded: Intermediate.

  The Moose is the most distant trail at the Frost Centre but well worth the ski for those who wish to experience the true peacefulness that the Frost Centre trails have to offer. There is one long downhill and several short steep climbs otherwise it consists of long gradual slopes followed by flat sections where you can really get into the skiing. This trail is perfect for physical fit people who are searching for a truly peaceful place to ski. Beware the final run down to an abrupt T junction near the Deer trail shelter. Graded: Intermediate. Due to their distance from main roads the Frost Centre suggests that you ski the Deer and Moose trail with a partner in case of an emergency. They also suggest that you don't leave for the Moose trail any later than 2:00 PM to avoid skiing back after dark.

  The trails are operated by a non-profit volunteer organization (Ski Friends of the Frost Centre) so all proceeds from ticket sales go to the maintenance and improvement of these trails. Fees can be paid at the trailhead or the main reception of the Frost Centre building if change is needed. If not, payment can be made by following instructions in the map shelter.  Trail fees and day passes are $9.00/person for a full day, $6.00/person for a half day (after 2 p.m.). Children (17 and under) with adults ski free.

  For more information call (705) 766-2451 or e-mail: frostcentre@mnr.gov.on.ca, or visit http://www.frostcentre.on.ca/skifriends.cfm for the latest on trail conditions.