The Larch Hills Ski Club hosted our first ‘Larch Hills Marathon’ in January 1985. The loppet name was changed in 1987 to honour and remember Reino Keski-Salmi, a founding member of our ski club and an international cross-country ski champion. Reino was twice a Canadian champion and also a North American marathon champion. Tragically, Reino died in a helicopter crash during the summer of 1985 while working with a forest fire-fighting crew.

Since those early years our ski club has evolved to the present day Larch Hills Nordic Society and our facilities have undergone developments and improvements, yet we continue to be true to our grass roots origins. Our volunteer based club promotes cross-country skiing by making it accessible to all. Our Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet encourages participation regardless of skiing experience. We take pride in hosting a fun and family friendly event for all ages.

This year marks the 26th anniversary of our loppet. With the help of over 300 LHNS and Salmon Arm community volunteers, we host a first class loppet for both competitive and recreational skiers. We hope you will join us in celebrating the joy of cross-country skiing by participating in the 2010 Reino Keski-Salmi Loppet.