For Canadian ski cross racer Kris Mahler, the road to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy, doesn’t start in Europe. It begins here at home in the Canadian Rockies — at the resorts that have shaped him as an athlete, a competitor, and a person.
“It’s actually really hard for me to pick a favourite RCR resort,” Mahler admits. “Kicking Horse is always such a fun resort, and that’s probably where I’ve spent the most time free skiing just because of its proximity to Canmore… But Nakiska holds a really special place in my heart and my racing career because of that World Cup win at home.”
At Nakiska Ski Area, Mahler not only trains daily but also experienced one of the defining moments of his career: a World Cup victory in front of family and friends. “Winning at home, in front of the people who have supported me my whole life, was incredible. It felt full circle.” Beyond results, Nakiska’s role as an international training hub gives him perspective. “The vibe there in November is so different — athletes from all over the world, side by side. There’s a camaraderie you don’t find at many other resorts.”
When Mahler needs a reset, he often heads west to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. “In terms of a free skiing resort, Kicking Horse has some of the best terrain in Canada—and probably in the world—in terms of lift-accessed terrain. After the heartbreak of missing Olympic selection, I went to Kicking Horse for some soul-recovery laps. That’s where I reset.”
His journey has also taken him to Fernie Alpine Resort, where tough conditions have tested his grit and unique opportunities have sharpened his edge. “At the end of last season, we had the chance for private training at Fernie after the resort closed. Having the back bowls to ourselves with sleds and cats — it was such a cool, rare experience for Team Canada.”
And at Kimberley Alpine Resort, Mahler discovered something unexpected: a sense of community that reminded him of his early days in Ontario. “I was completely blown away by the community aspect of Kimberley. It reminded me of what I grew up with back east, where community is everything. Kimberley’s one of those sneaky spots with so much history in the racing community.”
Together, these mountains aren’t just venues. They’re teachers, each one contributing to the athlete Mahler is today — and the Olympian he’s working to become.
As he pushes toward Cortina, Mahler knows the mountains will keep shaping him. “Every RCR resort has played a role in my journey. They’ve each given me something different — but together, they’ve given me the foundation to chase my Olympic dream.”
The Mountains are Calling
This season, ski the same slopes that fuel Kris Mahler’s Olympic journey. Plan your own story at Resorts of the Canadian Rockies — the mountains that shape champions!
