Canada’s Night Sky & Top 10 Sky Events

Milkyway galaxy

“THERE IS IN THE UNIVERSE NEITHER CENTRE NOR CIRCUMFERENCE. ”  ~ Giordani Bruno

The coldest time of the year is upon us, and the long nights that accompany the Winter Season are the best time to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of our stars and planets. Gaze up in wonder at a celestial show above, painted with twinkling stars against a canvas of dark night sky.

 

SPOT THE BRIGHTEST PLANETS IN JANUARY

Wow! This beautiful #ManningParkDarkSky photo from @apixelguy

At the beginning of January, four planets will be visible in the evening sky: Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars. Mars will be particularly bright during this time, so be sure to catch it while you can!

Observe the slight variations in colour between ochre Mars and the yellow-orange Lucida of Taurus. The Red Planet’s disk spans about 14 arcseconds and is large and close enough to be viewed in detail through a telescope.

Interested in exploring the night sky?  You can rent a telescope at Manning Park and discover the wonders of the universe for yourself!

LOOKING FOR ADVENTURE THAT IS AFFORDABLE & FUN

Watch our new stargazing video here.

 Take a trip to Manning Park and stay in BC Park’s fully serviced Skyview RV Campground. Named because the stargazing is SO great in this location!

62 Campsites are available in the Winter and 92 sites in the Summer. All campsites have hook-ups for water, power (50-amp) and sewer. Skyview Campground is near Lightning Lake, and has a heated shower building for your enjoyment.

At Manning Park, you can spend your days carving down the slopes, gliding across 60km’s of Nordic trails, snowshoeing the tranquil beauty of the Cascade Mountains and unwinding by your campfire while covered in a blanket of stars.

(Pro-Tip: Bring your camping chair to enjoy the cosmos from your campsite)

Click to BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW!  

 

NEW PRIVATE TOURS & A PERFECT STARGAZING OPPORTUNITY

Enjoy the beauty of the star-filled night sky, while snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at Manning Park. These events offer a unique and magical experience, perfect for all ages and experience levels. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and marvel at the celestial wonders above.

Private Snowshoe Tour + Chocolate Fondue:

  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour followed by a Chocolate Fondue in our Bears Den Pub.
  • $65/per person (minimum 4 people)

Private Snowshoe Tour + Wine & Charcuterie Board:

  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour followed by Wine & Charcuterie Board in our Bears Den Pub. $79/per person (minimum 4 people)

Private Snowshoe or Cross-Country Guide:

  • $60/Hour (2-Hour minimum requirement)

To reserve your Private Experience, please Email: nordic@manningpark.com

ASTRONOMY NEWS AND MORE…

TOP 10 SKY EVENTS OF 2023 

There are three major meteor showers, including the Perseids, arriving with the Moon mostly out of the way this year.

1- Venus, Saturn, & Crescent Moon at dusk

Date: January 23

Type: Conjunction

Time: Evening

View: Naked eye, binoculars

Click to know more – Skynews.ca 

 

TOP 20 STARGAZING APPS

If you’re wondering where to find the Big Dipper or have noticed a reddish dot above you and want to know more, a stargazing app can be a helpful tool. Simply download one to your phone and have access to a wealth of information about the celestial objects visible in the sky.

Click to know more  – Vitotechnology.com  

 

Guided Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Enjoy this special #ManningParkDarkSky guided tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

Valentine’s Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Treat your loved one to this Valentine’s snowshoe and fondue tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

Guided Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Enjoy this special #ManningParkDarkSky guided tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

Guided Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Enjoy this special #ManningParkDarkSky guided tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

Guided Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Enjoy this special #ManningParkDarkSky guided tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

New Year’s Day Guided Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Celebrate New Year’s Day with this special #ManningParkDarkSky guided tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

Alpine and Nordic Tickets, Rentals, and Lessons for the Upcoming Season are Now Available!

The snow is falling and we are looking forward to our opening date of December 22! We are stoked to announce that tickets, rentals, and lessons are now available to purchase for the entire upcoming winter season.

Before purchasing, just a few things to keep in mind:

When purchasing tickets, rentals, and lessons, you will be prompted to add guest details for each guest. Please add the details of the guest who will be using the ticket/product.

The following policies apply:

  • All advanced purchased tickets, rentals, and lessons are non-refundable: With 72-hours notice, they can be transferred to an alternate date within this winter season.

If you have any trouble with the purchasing process or have additional questions regarding the booking platform, please contact our support line at 604-668-5922 (ext.1303) or e-mail us alpine@manningpark.com.

For lessons, navigate through our website to find your lesson of choice:

Lessons & Clubs

 

Purchase tickets & rentals

 

Guided Snowshoe Fondue Tour

Enjoy this special #ManningParkDarkSky guided tour in Manning Park’s true Alpine wilderness. Join our experienced guide for a 2-hour snowshoe adventure under the stars. You will trek placidly among the snow-covered trees in beautiful E.C. Manning Park, followed by a delicious chocolate fondue in the forest. This magical evening is not to be missed!

Important Details:

  • The minimum age for this evening excursion is 10 years. Under 18 yrs old must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please arrive at the Nordic Centre at least 30 minutes prior to get fit into your snowshoes and to check-in.
  • Guests are required to self-drive to the Strawberry Flats trailhead, however, you must first check in at the Nordic Centre.
  • It is recommended to bring your own headlamp or rent one for $5 at the Nordic Centre the evening of the tour.
  • Snowshoe rentals, if required, are included in the price.

COVID-19 Guidelines:

  • Facial coverings are required to be worn while indoors, with the exception of when eating or drinking.
  • Under PHO guidelines, proof of double vaccination is required to participate in this event.

Vote for our New Quad Chairlift Name!

Vote for our New Quad Chairlift Name

Our brand-new Doppelmayr quadruple chairlift is now complete and ready for Winter 2019/20. Now we need your help to vote on the best name out of Top choices!

We collected Quad Chairlift Name Nominations all summer and came up with our top 3 names to be voted on by you to choose the winning one with which to christen the chairlift!

We couldn’t just narrow it down to 3, so we have a bonus one! So here it is, our Top 3 (+1 Bonus) 

Vote for your favourite out of:

  • The Crowsnest Quad
  • Hozameen Chair
  • The Bear Chair
  • Cascade Quad

 

How to Vote:

Click on this link: https://www.quicktapsurvey.com/survey/1e712fea6428f5134af7e0a3e72d7a8c

Choose your favourite chairlift name for our new quad, input your name & email address.

Voting is per person, which is why we need your email address.

No multiple entries are allowed.* The only exception to this is if you come see us at the Vancouver Winter Extreme on October 19-20th. We’ll let you get a second vote!

Please vote!

 

 

 

The winning name nominator will win:

A 2020/2021 Manning Park Season Pass!
and… the first to ride the new chairlift!

Please note that the Top Submitters have already been contacted.

 

Why did we choose these 4 names? 

Great question! These names were chosen because we saw multiple entries of each name, showing that there are many of our season passholders and locals that find it suiting for the new quad lift at Manning Park Resort. We then put these names to the test and found that they resonated with our long-time management team as names that celebrated the beautiful location we are in, our natural, wild environment and they all have lasting, universal qualities.

The names can stand alone and be understandable, or you can also know the significance of them.

Here’s the names, along with our favourite reasons for why people thought they were suiting names too:
The Bear Chair “There are so many beautiful bears in Manning, we should celebrate them!
And a bear’s paw is fierce, fast and strong, just like the new chairlift will be.”
“Suiting for the park! The parks emblem is a bear paw, it would just accent the great ski hill you have :-)”
“Every where you look in Manning you see bear prints so I think this is fitting for the new big chair”
Hozameen Chair “Look back, you’ll know why.”
The beautiful view from the top of the former Orange Chair has the Hozameens in it. It is the background of thousands of pictures from the top of the chair formerly know as The Orange.
Crowsnest Quad Chair Manning Park is quite isolated, and the only highway you can take is the Legendary Crowsnest highway [BC Hwy #3]. Without it, Manning Park would not exist… The name represents the highway Manning Park was built on, and Quad, represents the new era Manning Park will face. Long live the Orange Chair, say hello to the Crowsnest Quad!
Cascade Quad Manning Park is located in the Canadian Cascades, so the name reinforces a sense of place and also is fitting because it’s descriptive for the shape of a mountain.
The Cascade Range or Cascades is a major mountain range of western North America, extending from southern British Columbia through Washington and Oregon to Northern California.