The Larch Hills trail system grew from the vision and determination of local cross-country skiers in the 1970s. Members of Shuswap Outdoors!, formed in 1973, began exploring the old logging roads and trails in the Larch Hills and saw the potential for a permanent cross-country ski trail system.

Beginning in 1974, volunteers spent countless weekends clearing brush, deadfall and overgrown routes by hand. After an unsuccessful grant application in 1976, Shuswap Outdoors! incorporated as a society and successfully secured Canada Works funding. This allowed the first organized trail projects to begin in 1977, followed by a second project in 1978.

The early projects created an extensive network of trails, connections and loops, along with two simple shelters. Volunteers also developed the first trail map and created and installed signs throughout the system. Many trail names came from wildlife, plants and memorable experiences encountered while building them.

The Larch Hills Ski Club held its first meeting in May 1979 and incorporated in 1980. Club members continued expanding and maintaining the trail system, working alongside volunteers from Shuswap Outdoors!

As use increased, conflicts between winter recreation and logging access led to the development of a comprehensive Larch Hills Management Plan, completed in 1984. The plan formally designated the ski trails as winter cross-country ski recreation trails and established other areas for snowmobiling and resource use.

Since then, the trail system has continued to evolve. Logging has changed some routes, while volunteers have restored trails, created new connections and cleared deadfall and new growth each year. The spirit that built Larch Hills remains the same: people volunteering their time to create and care for a place they believe should be enjoyed by everyone.