XCskiresorts.com

Has Snowmaking at XC Ski Resorts Arrived?

Trapp Family Lodge steeped in tradition in Stowe, VT has been added to the ever increasing list of xc ski resort snowmakers. That's right, they are making machine-made snow at Trapp's. In fact, a list of xc ski operators that have dabbled in snowmaking over the years is now at 32 xc ski areas. The list also includes Mountain Top Resort in VT, Bretton Woods and Great Glen in NH, Royal Gorge, CA, and Soldier Hollow, UT.

Why did Trapp Family decide to invest six figures in a snowmaking operation? The availability of less expensive and portable snowmaking systems are main motivations, but other business-driven issues are relevant too, such as filling lodge rooms and fulfilling season pass holders' desire to extend the ski season beyond Mother Nature's whim.

Twenty years ago, one industry consultant dubbed the xc ski resort quandry as "precipitation roulette," and some business-oriented reasons to install snowmaking include operational security to guarantee skiing, programs, and staffing; competitive advantage against xc ski resorts that do not have machine-made snow, and guaranteeing snow cover on important holiday periods (which can represent more than 30 percent of annual business).

The necessary components of a snowmaking operation include cold temperatures, water, high pressure, power, and system components such as piping, pumps, compressors, and snow guns. The power requires both manpower and energy supplied by electricity or fuel. There are many industry horror stories about the night hours and difficulty of the work associated with snowmaking. Getting the snow to efficiently cover a narrow corridor trail is also a challenge.

But the most significant issue has always been the investment required for many xc ski businesses that are small and seasonal. It is now at the point where operators at Mountain Top Resort in Chittenden, VT decided that snowmaking was a higher priority than selling retail products at the xc ski center. Snowmaking supports so many aspects of the business from rental operations and ski lessons to dog sledding and snowshoeing. In terms of the guest perspective, guests expect to book travel to a destination and get the experience that was desired...and that includes snow!

Who knows, perhaps there will be a day sometime soon when snowmaking will be a basic aspect of xc skiing at commercial resorts?

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Mike Gallagher Inducted in the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame

The cross country ski coach, who helped Bill Koch (the only Olympic medal in cross country skiing history ever won by an American) and his teammates win World Cup medals and the was inducted in the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame in October 2007. His name is Mike Gallagher.

A three time Olympian and holder of 13 national championship titles (9 individual and 4 relay), Gallagher was the US Ski Team Head Coach 1980-86 and US Olympic Coach in 1980, 1984, and 1992. Hailing from Rutland, VT, Gallagher was himself coached by his 10th Mountain Division (military) father in alpine ski events including slalom and downhill. He took up xc skiing at 17 and within two years, he won the junior nationals.

He attended the University of Colorado and led the pack at the national Cross Country Training Camp in Steamboat Springs in 1965. By the summer of 1967, Gallagher was training once or twice a day for a total of 2-5 hours, four to six days per week. He competed in the 1968 and 1972 Olympics.

In 1976, Gallagher became the Technical Director of the Edsbyn division of Vener Associates in Norwalk, CT acting as a liaison between Edsbyn and the US Ski Team. In 1978 he became the Director of Cross Country Product Development for Elan/Monark and in 1979 he was named the US Cross Country Ski Team coach. Later Gallagher ran the ski school at the Mountain Meadows xc ski area nearby Killington, VT.

Recently, Gallagher reminisced about Bill Koch, who shocked the world when he won the silver medal in the 1976 Olympics. "We were really surprised and we didn't expect it at all." By 1982, "there was no question" claimed Gallagher boasting of Koch's gold medal at the World Cup championship. "We scoped out the weather a week prior to the World Cup and it stayed the same" so the wax selection was right on.

Speaking about the team at that time, Gallagher said, "We were on top. Koch won the World Cup on Friday and the day after was the relay team competition with Caldwell, Galanes, Simoneau, and Koch. They won the gold medal in the relay race at the 1982 World Cup and they gave me the trophy." He remembered that during the race it started snowing, and in the last relay leg, "Koch caught the Norwegian racer after he had started his leg in second place. We went out and broke the trail in the track" before Koch got to that section of the race.

In 1983, Koch was in the hunt for the World Cup again, but he was beaten by a young Swede (famous champion Gunde Sven), who took his first world cup championship. American Tim Caldwell placed second and Koch was third in that race. The next day was the relay and our team won again beating the Swedes, Norwegians, Russians, and Italians. A great feat that is unparalleled in American cross country ski racing history.

In his later years, Gallagher ran the Mountain Top Inn ski school and while at Mountain Meadows he initiated sprint racing. Gallagher now works part time at Rutland High School with the racers and he is also a carpenter in Pittsfield, Vermont.

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Yellowstone Begins to Adapt

According to a story in the Casper Star-Tribune in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park's largest concessionaire Xanterra Parks & Resorts is offering services including more groomed xc ski trails, ice skating, and massage therapy at the Snow Lodge. The company still has snowmobile tours, but winter business in the park and the gateway town of West Yellowstone is undergoing a shift that is less focused on resolving the long standing dispute about snowmobiles in the park and more about adapting to a changing market.

Presently 720 snowmobiles are allowed in Yellowstone daily and all of them must be accompanied by commercial guides. A third major study of the associated issues has now created a permanent plan for snowmobile use in the park. The business in the town has been dependent upon the snowmobile tourism, but the national park should be a draw with or without the machines. The geysers and wildlife are great attractions for winter enthusiasts and so is the access to human-powered winter recreation such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter camping.

The companies that provide winter snowcoach tours have increased fleets and the snowcoach ridership has increased. At the same time, the number of snowmobiles decreased 20 percent last year compared to previous years. It is unknown whether the lack of snow last year was the prevalent factor causing the downturn in business or if the politics associated with the battle about snowmobiles had a negative effect. An updated report showed that since 2003, visitor interest in snowmobiling in the park has been about 250 per day. The National Park Service has reported that Yellowstone's air has improved dramatically in the past few winters resulting from a decrease in snowmobile traffic and increased snowcoach use.

There is a new Old Faithful Express snowcoach service out of West Yellowstone with few stops getting visitors to Old Faithful more quickly so they can have more time to explore the trails before taking the return shuttle. There should also be express skier drops at Seven Mile Bridge or at Madison Junction for a 14-mile ski back to the park's West Entrance.

The Rendezvous Trails in West Yellowstone has a full slate of competition race events but town businesses and the park will need to increase the volume of recreational events, programs, and special offers as well as marketing efforts to encourage more winter awareness and visitation to the region. It sure appears to be a great place for family vacations!

New Info About Yellowstone Park From the Outdoor Industry Association

The National Park Service established a new policy about snowmobiling at Yellowstone Park. It defers the implementation of a final new policy until the winter of 2008-2009, leaving the existing level of snowmobile use in Yellowstone capped at 720 machines per day for this winter of 2007-2008.

* Actual use in recent years has averaged from 250 to 290 snowmobiles a day.

The policy decreases the cap on snowmobile use in Yellowstone from 720 to 540 machines when the new policy kicks in during the 2008-2009 winter and it will require that all snowmobiles and snowcoaches use the best available technology aimed at reducing noise and emissions.

All snowmobiles would have to be led by commercial guides.

The Blue Ribbon Coalition has said it will sue in protest of the lower snowmobile numbers and commercial-only rule. The conservation community is likely to file suit as well. Conservation groups want snowcoaches to transport tourists in the park. They cite government research that says noise and air pollution levels are too high even with the reduced snowmobiling and cleaner machines. The "sue you, sue me" blues continue and there appear to be little interest for negotiating by the sides. Can't we share the park?

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Eat Your Way to Fitness

Want a guilt-free way to indulge yourself with food while exercising? XC Skiing is one of the best forms of aerobic exercise but if you go on a "Gourmet Ski Tour" on your xc skis or snowshoes, you may very well eat your way to fitness at a number of trailside food stops. What a grand time so go ahead, eat, ski, and be merry - appetizers, wine, champagne, fondue, entrees, desserts, and more.

We've compiled a cross section of the culinary xc ski events held across the country during that were held this winter that feature a varied menu of fun and fine cuisine. Look for them next winter!

East
Eastman Cross Country's Nordic Nibbles in Grantham, NH is a brunch in late January with a Scandinavian theme with a visit to stops for cheese from a local smokehouse, Lindt chocolate, gingerbread cake and pastries from local bakeries, local dairy milk for hot coco, soup, and the main meal.

The Joy of Skiing Progressive Picnic in Bethel, ME at Sunday River Inn in late February ski to designated locations on the trails for fresh donuts made trailside, soup for lunch at the covered bridge, S'mores, and finish at the deck party in a fundraiser for the American Lung Association.

The Chocolate Festival at Mt. Washington Valley Ski & Snowshoe Center in Intervale, NH in late February is an inn-to-inn affair at 10-12 stops to experience your chocolate fantasies including moose and fondue. Go on a tour of any length and actually gain calories, even if you ski as far as 20 kilometers. A shuttle is also available for those that have overindulged.

The Craftsbury Marathon in Vermont in early February has 7 food stations starting at Highland Lodge in Greensboro, VT on a 25 km tour ending at the common at Craftsbury Outdoor Trails. Intermediate xc ski skills required. This is a race with limited registration but many people and families do it as a recreational outing.

Other xc ski food special events in the east include the Hearts of Jackson in Jackson, NH in mid February, a Valentine's Day fundraiser for the American Heart Association; Dartmouth Cross Country Ski Center's Progressive Dinner in Hanover, NH in late February.

Central and Mountains
Garland Resort's Gourmet Glide in Lewiston, MI invites skiers to the trails where they stop at five trailside feasts to fuel themselves along the way. Start with mimosas and breakfast at the lodge and make your way to the most famous stop at the Trout Pond Camp, where the family can fish for trout and then have it prepared right there over a wood fire. The program runs January-March on nine Saturdays with groups heading out at 9 and 10 a.m.

Just Desserts Eat & Ski in the Enchanted Forest in Red River, NM in late February features goodies from 20 different local restaurants at three trailside stations with up to 100 desserts within a 4 kilometer loop.12-2 PM. Reservations $5 for kids and $10 for above 12 years old. After Feb 19, $7 kids and $15 adults.

The Gourmet Ski & Feast is held in early March on the Noque Trails in MI near Cedarhust Lodge in Republic. Trailside buffet tables and music for $20 adults & $10 for kids. Tickets at Sports Rack, or DownWind Sports in Marquette and Nordic Bay Lodge Restaurant.

The Grand Huts Progressive Dinner is scheduled at Devil's Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, CO in mid March on lighted trails to raise funds for Grand County Huts. Ski or snowshoe a half mile for d'oevres at the horse barn and another mile to the Sawmill Yurt for soup and salad. Return to the Broad Axe Barn for dinner, dessert, drinks, dancing, and entertainment..

Crested Butte Nordic Center's Progressive Bonfire Dinner in Crested Butte, CO on March 22 where you will follow the illuminated trail for a 4-star, 4-course, 4 kilometer tour of Italian fare. $35 for adults and $15 for kids. 5 PM, 5:30 PM, 6 PM and 6:30 PM.

West
Thai Moonlight Tour at Tamarack Resort in Donnelly, ID is held in late December. Enjoy Thai food and wine on xc skis or snowshoes at night for $50 includes rentals and trail fee. www.tamarackidaho.com

Tahoe Cross Country's Gourmet Tour in Tahoe City, CA in mid March is a two hour affair (1-3 PM) to sample a dozen of Lake Tahoe's finest north shore restaurants featuring stops for seafood, crab cakes, soup, wine and pasta.

The Gourmet Ski Tour in Bear Valley XC, CA on Sunday, March 30 has 5 stations at scenic huts along 8 kilometers of trails for appetizer, soup, entrée, dessert, and champagne with strawberries. Local restaurants provide the fare, but register early because it is limited to 30 skiers.

Also regularly scheduled Full Moon Dinners at Galena Lodge in Ketchum, ID.

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Milestones of Modern XC Skiing in the USA

Since the time that wooden skis were found in a peat bog in Sweden dating to 2,000 BC, there have been many milestones that brought xc skiing to where it is today. Focusing on the USA, the forefathers of our recreation include people such as Snowshoe Thompson, who delivered the mail in the Sierra Mountains of California and JackRabbit Johannsen, who xc skied in northern New York.

The editors of XCSkiResorts.com using various sources considered the milestones and developed this list of the Milestones of Modern XC Skiing in the USA in order of significance:

1. Development of synthetic xc skis in 1974.
2. Development of the waxless based ski in the early 1970's, most notably the Trak ski with synthetic fishscales on the ski base to eliminate the need for ski waxes. The waxless base gave the recreational skier grip on uphill travel while also allowing gliding downhill.
3. Integrated xc ski binding systems, which provided substantial improvements in simplicity of boot/binding interface and control in the mid 70's.
4. Bill Koch won the Olympic silver medal in 1976 and World Cup in 1982, the only American to ever win at that level. The Nordic Trak exerciser used the Koch image as a fitness icon in advertisements for years.
5. The onset of the commercial xc ski area concept began in 1968-69 at Trapp Family Lodge. This brought designed, groomed, and maintained trails making xc skiing easier and safer for the average person.
6. The skating technique proliferated for a faster paced and higher performance form of recreation.
7. Revolution Skis developed by Fischer led the way to shorter skis, which were easier to use and consolidated ski sizing and simplified ski selection.
8. New lighter clothing with synthetic and breathable materials was more conducive to xc skiing comfortably; company brands such as Mother Karen led the way in the late 1970's.
9. Other technological advances such as the 2 Wax System that offered one wax for cold temperatures and one for warm temperatures simplified ski waxing while the BackCountry binding systems provided a beefed up boot/binding system that provided substantially more support and control for backcountry recreation.
10. Will the Nordic Integrated System (NIS) developed in 2005 change the ski/binding interface? This system combines the ski and binding at manufacture rather than at the retail store.

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Vermont's Nordic Ski Quest

Some xc ski areas in Vermont have developed a unique idea to encourage xc skiers and snowshoers to visit different resorts this winter offering clues for a treasure hunt at various xc ski resorts across the state. The Ski Vermont Nordic Quest is the brainchild of Vermont Ski Areas Association and Cabot Creamery.

Start a log book or order the official Ski Vermont/Cabot Creamery Log Book Starter Kit. If you don't have a pair of your own xc skis, you can rent equipment at any of the participating xc ski areas. At each of the ski areas there will be a stamp to find on a Nordic Quest trail. Simply stamp your log book, notebook, or pad. Collect six stamps and send them in to claim a prize.

Send a copy of the stamps from six completed Nordic Quests to Ski Vermont Nordic Quest, PO Box 368, Montpelier, VT 05601. Include your name and mailing address so a prize can be sent to you. Which was your favorite Nordic Quest and why?

Look up the participating xc ski areas listed below for specific Ski VT Nordic Quest trails on XCSkiResorts.com or email Heather@skivermont.com to get a Log Book Starter Kit and directions:

Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe - Prizo's Prizes Quest
Smugglers' Notch, Smugglers Notch - Heart of Smugglers' Notch Quest

Quests also at Highland Lodge in Greensboro,Mountain Top Inn Resort in Chittenden, and Bolton Valley, VT has one quest for beginners and one for advanced xc skiers.

Okemo Nordic Center, Ludlow - Okemotion Quest
Hazen's Notch, Montgomery Center - Wilde Trail/Spruce Brook Trail; Woodfern Loop
Morse Farm Ski Touring Center, Montpelier - Farming Quest
Woodstock Ski Touring Center, Woodstock - Mount Tom Quest

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Adaptive XC Programs

Here is XCSkiResorts.com information about adaptive programs. These programs positively impact the lives of people with physical or mental challenges through quality adaptive recreation.

XCSkiResorts.com is a sponsor of Ski for Light, Inc., which is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization founded in 1975. The primary goal of the program is to teach adults with visual or mobility impairments the sport of xc skiing. There are instructor guides that share a favorite sport with an enthusiastic skier and enable a disabled person to master an activity that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Details about the Ski for Light organization, regional events and the international week and costs associated with the program are available at www.sfl.org or contact Brenda Seeger on the Internet at brenda@sfl.org or by phone at (507) 274-5502. Visually impaired individuals may contact Lynda Boose at 906-250-7836 or lynda@sfl.org. Mobility impaired individuals may contact Jeff Pagels at 920-494-5572 or jeff@sfl.org.

* In another program, Maine Handicapped Skiing’s goal, through Veterans/No Boundaries, is to help any veteran (or active duty service man or woman) with a physical disability to learn new skills, build physical strength and gain self-confidence through participation in adaptive recreational activities.

Veterans/No Boundaries is coordinated by a volunteer planning committee that includes numerous veterans, local business people and Maine Handicapped Skiing staff. Several veterans serving on the committee are currently participants and/or volunteers at Maine Handicapped Skiing for winter and summer sports activities.

Maine Handicapped Skiing also offers a winter Veterans/No Boundaries program at Sunday River Inn and Cross Country Ski Center, which will be offered in February, 2008 (dates TBA). Veterans downhill and cross country ski, snowboard, and snowshoe all free of charge. Meals, equipment and lessons are provided by Maine Handicapped Skiing (along with discounted lodging) thanks to the generous support of Sunday River, Bath Iron Works, local businesses, individuals and many veterans organizations throughout Maine.

For complete details about the Veterans/No Boundaries program or to learn more about Maine Handicapped Skiing for adults and children with physical disabilities, go to www.skimhs.org , call 800-639-7770 or email MHS at info@skimhs.org.

Other programs by state:

Alaska - Alpine Alternatives, Inc. - www.alpinealternatives.org
California - Discovery Blind Sports - www.discoveryblindsports.org

Colorado - Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center and Breckenridge Nordic Center - www.boec.org
Adaptive Adventures in Denver - www.edaptive.org
Adaptive Sports Center of Crested Butte - www.adaptivesports.org
Foresight Ski Guides in Denver - www.foresightskiguides.org
Nat'l Sports Center for the Disabled in Denver- www.nscd.org

Idaho - Sun Valley Adaptive Sports - www.svasp.org

Illinois - Adaptive Adventures - www.adaptiveadventures.org

Maine - Maine Handicapped Skiing - www.skimhs.org
Central Maine Adaptive Sports - www.lostvalleyski.com

Montana - Eagle Mount in Bozeman - www.eaglemount.org

New Hampshire - Northeast Passage in Durham and Jackson Ski Touring Center - www.nepassage.org

New York - Stride, Inc. - in Rensselear - www.stride.org

Utah - National Ability Center in Park City - www.nac1985.org
SPLORE in Salt Lake City - www.splore.org

West Virginia - Challenged Athletes of WV in Snowshoe - www.cawvsports.org

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Smart Ski Travel Using the Internet

Here are some ski travel tips from Charles Leocha of SkiSnowboard.com, the SkiSnowboard America and Canada guidebook, and MSNBC about booking a ski trip or vacation using the Internet (we've incorporated xc skiing) - excerpted from SkiPress Magazine.

1. Booking hotels - Leocha suggests to use Expedia, Hotels.com, Orbitz, and Priceline to find packages that combine air, lodging, transfers or rental cars, and lift tickets. If you are an xc skier or snowshoer, who does not want to go alpine skiing or snowboarding, the lift ticket aspect is useless to you. Additionally, it is unlikely that many xc ski resorts are involved with these conglomerate Web sites and we think that you can get the best price on lodging if you work directly with the resorts that are on XCSkiResorts.com. But you could very well find great prices by combining the other aspects of your trip (air and vehicle). Leocha recommends using Sidestep.com, which compares packages from a collection of different Web sites.

2. Booking flights - Use aggregator and meta-search engine Web sites such as Sidestep.com, Kayak.com, or mobissimo.com. They search multiple airline sites and offer info in an easily comparable format. None of these sites include Southwest Airlines, so you need to go directly to Southwest.com for the best deals that involve that airline. Leocha recommends that after finding info about flights, book directly with the airline Web site to save service charges that are added by travel agents and aggregators.

3. Rental Cars - Orbitz.com displays a great matrix of available rental cars and you can usually get better prices at off-airport locations (they require a shuttle trip from the airport to get there). Leocha also suggests that Priceline.com has the best prices because of the "Name-your-own-price" booking engine. Be aware that you are not allowed to change the dates of the car rental with this service.

4. Traveling with Ski Gear - Check with the airline about free luggage limits when it comes to skis because some airlines now charge an additional fee to transport skis. Leocha suggests that you take your ski boots on the trip and rent the skis. This idea allows you to try different ski brands, models, and higher performance skis. Of course, with xc skiing you need to be aware of the different binding systems so if you have a Salomon boot or NNN boot, you need to have the respective binding on the rental skis. Call the resort ahead to double check about this issue.

5. Get the Facts - It's best to clearly understand what is included in your ski trip. Does the package price include trail fees? Does the resort offer breakfasts and lunch? Can you find out in advance about other services that are available such as massage or swimming pool availability? Do you want backcountry guided ski trips or do you like to ski on groomed trails, need nearby alpine skiing?

We obviously think that starting with XCSkiResorts.com is a great idea to compare resort alternatives. Create a list of places you've been and destinations that you want to visit. For more info about the "meccas of xc skiing," check out the recommendation lists on the XCSkiResorts.com Top 10 Page. Have a great trip!

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What is Backcountry Skiing?

Thanks to Steve King and the Mountain Peeks newsletter of Vista Verde Ranch in Steamboat Springs, Colorado for contributing this insight to backcountry skiing.

After all my years guiding, I've come to realize that most people don't understand what it is that we do here in the winter. Many of the summer guests tell me, "I tried cross country skiing once and didn't like it." But as soon as I start describing our winter program, they quickly realize that it is nothing like they had envisioned.

We definitely do offer xc skiing on our groomed trails, and improvements in ski equipment as well as grooming equipment has made this experience so much better than even five years ago. But, the even lesser known secret about our winter ski experience is the backcountry touring. When you hear the term backcountry skiing, do you envision avalanches and extreme skiing movies? Well, as much as I think Warren Miller should pay us a visit, he might be in for a surprise. Backcountry skiing at Vista Verde means anything from a quiet morning tromp through the woods, getting back in time for a bowl of hot soup in front of the fireplace, to a challenging all-day trip through Hole in the Wall Canyon that will leave your legs calling for the hot tub.

We plan the trips with you in mind, matching your adventure to your skill level and desired intensity. The equipment we use is the latest and greatest for the type of skiing we're doing- heavier duty than a typical cross country ski, but not as heavy as an alpine ski. The boots are like hiking boots, so they provide lots of support and stability while still being comfortable. We bring along climbing skins which allow you to walk up hills on your skis, and then take them off so you can shoosh back down. If you don't want any hills, we can ski over lakes, alongside rivers, or through meadows.

We take our trips off into the untouched powder where the snow is fresh and fluffy. The pace is like a hiking trip- we can hustle along if you're looking for a killer workout, or just take our time and enjoy the scenery. What surprises many of our skeptical winter guests is that without any prior experience, they are able to get out there and do it! Even with all these words, I find it's hard to describe backcountry ski touring in a way that does it justice. So, we'll have the skies waxed and ready to go if you're game to give it a try!

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Vermont Ski Museum XC Ski Exhibit

The Vermont Ski Museum in Stowe, VT has an exhibit called "Vermont's Nordic Traditions." It chronicles the development of xc skiing in Vermont with particular focus on how Vermonters shaped the sport, technological innovations, and Vermont's extensive network of trails as enjoyed by recreational and competitive xc skiers.

The exhibit includes a 1968 Olympic coaching jacket donated by John Caldwell, Warren Chiver's scrapbook documenting his trip to the 1936 Olympics and more. Vermont is the home of two of the oldest commercial xc ski resorts in the US, Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe and Viking Nordic Center in Londonderry. It is also home to Bill Koch, the only American to ever win an Olympic medal and the World Cup crown in xc skiing.

The museum also has an exhibit about the Catamount Trail, which is a backcountry trail that stretches the length of Vermont. The Nordic Traditions exhibit was made possible by grant donations by Trapp Family Lodge, Putney School, Concept II and some individuals. The Vermont Ski Museum is in downtown Stowe Village and is open 12-5 everyday except Tuesday. XCSkiResorts.com encourages all of the ski museums to create similar exhibits to celebrate xc skiing history in the USA and Canada.

For more info go to www.vermontskimuseum.org

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GREEN EFFORTS at XC SKI RESORTS

Many of the operators of cross country (xc) ski areas are eco-active, or in other words they are exemplary of the "greening" of xc skiing. They pay heed to ideals such as: protecting scenic values and wildlife habitats, practicing water and energy conservation, reducing waste and reusing products, designing and building facilities in an environmentally-sensitive manner, managing forest and vegetation properly, handling potentially hazardous waste properly and educating their clientele and staff about environmental awareness and their eco-activity. Some common themes among operators are evident, such as, wildlife sensitivity, using biodegradable hydraulic fluid in snowcats that groom the trails, and trail designing for streambed protection. These eco-active efforts are not typically hundred thousand dollar investments, but xc ski area operators have much to be proud of with many small but meaningful accomplishments.

Many areas are conducting environmental interpretive group programs and many display trail signs to tell their environmental story. For example, a simple idea that is done at Kirkwood Cross Country in Kirkwood, California is the listing of recent wildlife sightings on its trailhead blackboard. At Devil's Thumb Ranch in Tabernash, Colorado, a geothermal heating system is used in the majority of its new buildings. The system consists of glycol-filled pipes that have been installed in the Ranch's on site lake. Heat is transferred to the glycol from the water, and then heated to 105 degrees by compressors in each building. The pipes are placed in the flooring providing radiant heat. The system uses very little electricity.

The White Grass Ski Touring Center in Canaan, WV is the recipient of the WV Environmental Council's 2003 Green Entrepreneurs Award. The facility is heated soley with wood and used about $2.50 worth of electricity a day. Environmental education is a key element at White Grass as there are regular outings in the WV Highlands Conservancy and the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

Ted Young of Boundary Country Trekking on the Gunflint Trail in MN will offset the carbon produced on the Banadad Trail (such as snowmobile grooming) by investing in reforestation in the area. They'll determine the cubic tons of carbon emissions associated with trail maintenance volunteers' transportation to the site and grooming machinery and other mechanical equipment used on the trail. They will sequester a number of acres to match the amount of carbon taken by red and white pines to derive a dollar amount value to contribute to the "Gunflint Green Up" tree-planting program. This is a planting estimated at 75,000 trees! Boundry Country Trekking has a sustainability statement and a comprehensive implemention plan at the boundary country implementation.html that is tops in the xc ski world.

Want to visit a sustainable resort that practices what it preaches? Nipika Mountain Resort in BC is off grid for its power. It uses micro-hydro and solar. The furniture is built on site with wood from trees that were killed by the Mountain Pine Beetle. The "Interpretive Trappers Cabin" is loaded with info about wildlife, natural surrounding, history, telescope, and more.

John and Sue Chase of A Fierce Chase in Maine incorporate their concern for the environment into the development of their business plan and they are most cognizant of their impact on the Earth's natural systems. They are both teachers and want to educate skiers about different ecological issues at the area. Chase worked with a local forester to design trails so that wildlife habitat would not be adversely affected. They developed 20 self-guided wildlife stations at the area featuring informational highlights. Special moonlight group wildlife tours hosted by a local biologist are very popular at the area, too. The Chases have developed partnerships with schools and community organizations to foster more local ecological awareness. Their warming hut is decorated in a wildlife theme with books and information about different species on display. And the ski area also does field research for the Maine Wolf Coalition.

At the Lodge at Jackson Village in New Hampshire, the owners are members of the NH Sustainable Lodge Program, changed to fluorescent light bulbs, healthier cleaning and lawn care products, initiated a voluntary towel and linen reuse program, installed solar PV panels to power attic fans, and changed outdoor and holiday decorations to LED lighting.

Soldier Hollow, which was the Utah site of all of the Nordic skiing events at the 2002 Olympics has an 11,000 square foot lodge built with recycled timbers as construction materials for building beams, columns, perlins, siding, interior roof, baseboard, and casing. Approximately 90 percent of the wood used in the lodge was salvaged from a 1902 railroad trestle that once crossed the Great Salt Lake. The bridge was no longer used in the 1950's and a wood reclamation project extracted the materials from under the water. Devil's Thumb Ranch has also rescued a Civil War-era barn from Indiana to frame its Broad Axe Barn with hand-hewn white oak and beech beams. In addition, the Ranch's roads and parking lots are constructed with recycled asphalt from a highway construction project.

Other Eco-Active Examples
An inventive environmental idea at Sleepy Hollow Inn, located in Huntington, Vermont runs its tractor on bio-diesel fuel, which is comprised of any kind of vegetable oil. This reduces emissions such as carbon monoxide, but it also provides better engine lubricity and is less expensive to run. Sleepy Hollow also offers free skiing (one time) to anyone, who drives to the area's trails in a hybrid, electric or bio-diesel powered vehicle. Maplelag in Callaway, Minnesota is an active tree farm on the White Earth Indian Reservation where it has planted thousands of trees and has created more than 20 ponds to benefit wildlife there. Hardwood Hills in Oro Station, Ontario designed and installed a septic system that recovers most of the water, which enters the system. The water is filtered, diluted, and recycled for use in the snowmaking system. Devil's Thumb Ranch has installed EPA-approved specially designed chimneys that minimize emissions from wood burning fireplaces.

Cross country skiing brings people outdoors to appreciate nature - and at such a slow pace, skiers can not help but be affected by nature's beauty and spiritual wonder. Many xc ski area operators are committed to creating and implementing innovative and effective environmental programs to enhance eco-awareness and foster responsible stewardship of natural resources. It's a natural symbiotic relationship!

For story about Karhu's Greenlight Core click Gear News.

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Ski Walking - Get Ready for the Season by Hiking with Poles
by Pete Edwards - owner/founder/coach WWW.SKIWALKING.COM

One way to prepare for the ski season - ski walking! And it's a healthful fitness activity, too.

Dr. Christaine Northrup, author of "Mother-Daughter Wisdom" and "Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom," said "My Ski Walking poles have been a terrific addition to my regular exercise program. I love the way they incorporate my upper body during a walk, thus giving me more strength-training and calorie burning for the time spent. I highly recommend them to everyone!"

Ski Walking, also called Nordic Walking, is the fastest growing fitness activity in Europe. Over 760,000 Finns of all ages and all fitness levels are hiking with their poles - that's 20% of Finland's entire population and millions are Ski Walking all across Europe.

The Finns saw the success of their elite skiers utilizing poles in the summer for Ski Walking and Hill Bounding. They also saw how a hiker with knee pain could eliminate the pain while hiking by using a walking stick and back packers complaining that their backs hurt until they were given poles. So with some removable rubber tips over special carbide ferrules, and the most comfortable xc ski pole straps they could find it was discovered that the perfect length poles for recreational Ski Walking were poles that put the Ski Walker's elbow at 90 degrees when strapped in and standing tall.

Ski Walking not only provides a better aerobic and cardio workout than regular walking, but radically reduces the pounding and stress to the knees, hips and back. And folks with sore or new knees, sore or new hips, back problems, MS, Parkinson's, running injuries including shin splints, have all been pleasantly surprised by the benefits of Ski Walking.

How? By utilizing the correct length poles, we are automatically forced to walk taller, with hips forward and the back straighter. Better posture is biomechanically a good thing! Combine this improved posture with the unique 4-Wheel-Drive action of walking with fitness poles and there is a huge decrease in the stress put on the weight bearing joints.

Marketing hype? No, Ski Walking really does burn up to 40% more calories than regular walking. Ski Walking produces up to a 46% increase in energy consumption compared to regular walking (Cooper Institute, Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sports 2002 publication).

Perfect fitting poles are important. Quality 1-piece fixed length poles are hassle free and user friendly - ideal for everyday use. I had a participant in one of my Ski Walking clinics tell me that she super glued her $140 titanium poles because she couldn't get them to stop compressing while walking.

I've hosted 100's of folks in my Ski Walking clinics and they all comment about how the poles really makes them stand tall (with a straighter back), makes them feel their arms working and eliminates any knee, hip or back pain they may have had prior to Ski Walking. I also coach runners and occasionally a couple of my runners get painful shin splints and now they can Ski Walk for over an hour - pain free.

For an unabiased blog about Nordic Walking or Ski Walking, check out Claire Walter's Nordic Walking USA Blog.

For a resort that is into winter walking click Smugglers' Notch, VT and for more information about Ski Walking and product info, contact www.SkiWalking.com or call 877-754-9255.

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Family XC Ski and Snowshoe Destination Vacations

Plan to gather up the kids and head to the hills during the school breaks next winter. No need to head to warmer climes - winter can be snowy, yet mild, and perfect for a family vacation with plenty of activities such as cross-country (xc) skiing and snowshoeing. According to the experts, who regularly update XCSkiResorts.com, the nation's top xc ski resorts are exceedingly family-friendly with lots to enjoy together both on the snow and off. What families want and need is exactly what an xc ski vacation delivers: multi-generational participation, quality time and shared memories.

There are special touches such as talent shows, child-friendly classes and family style meals to help your xc-ski vacation become the perfect memorable getaway with your loved ones. Families can find resorts that offer the perfect combination of carefree atmosphere and picture-perfect views together with beautiful lodging, family dining, and expertly groomed trails and learn how they can enjoy the winter outdoors together. The following are top suggestions from the site:

Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont - One of the most famous family resorts where the hills come alive with the "Sound of Music." In the Green Mountains of Vermont, Trapp Family Lodge is a paradise for families with a fitness center, an indoor pool and the Mountain Kids Club provides playtime, craft time and movies for kids.

Vista Verde Ranch in Steamboat Springs, Colorado - Here's the best of both worlds with backcountry guided xc skiing in addition to groomed trails. They have programs to engage kids and teens, sleigh rides, cooking classes and evening entertainment.

Palmquist's "The Farm" in Brantwood, Wisconsin. - As the name implies, this xc ski center is a farm that offers kid-friendly animals such as rabbits, horses, cats and dogs. There are tubes and sleds to use on sliding hills and an ice skating pond, plus horse-drawn sleigh rides and kids rental ski equipment.

Maplelag Resort in Callaway, Minnesota - Run by a 3-generation extended family, this resort has families coming back year after year. They serve family style meals, and host a talent/variety show, which is a big hit for families whose performances feature everything from jugglers and family skits, to jokes, musical instruments and German beer drinking songs. The show is followed by the Saturday Night Dance, which offers an eclectic collection of music for dancers of all ages.

Montecito-Sequoia Lodge in Kings Canyon National Park, California - Visit giant trees in Sequoia National Park and Monument. There is a daylong program for children, which has a break for the family to join together during lunch. The kids build igloos, go tubing and xc skiing or snowshoeing on nature hikes to see and learn about animal tracks. At night there is a dance, karaoke and bingo.

Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana - There are programs for outdoor youth adventures that include animal tracking, snowshoeing, tubing, snow kickball, obstacle Olympics, finger painting, scavenger hunts and ice cream socials. Parents will love the cuisine, massage and xc skiing on picturesque trails.

Lapland Lake Ski & Vacation Center in Northville, New York - Weekends feature nightly bonfires and the kids love to play Napa Kikku, which is a Finnish game on ice with a sled and a pole. Kicksleds, tubing, ice skating and parents use pulk sleds to pull the kids along the xc ski trails.

Smuggler's Notch Resort in Smuggler's Notch, Vermont - This resort has a dynamic lineup of family programs with 1,000 acres for alpine skiers and snowboarders, teen centers, kids camps and FunZone play area, resort village with shops and restaurants, condo lodging, and walk-to free shuttles. There's xc ski and snowshoe trails, winter walking, ice skating, and more. Recognition for family focus has been awarded by numerous magazines.

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Choosing a Destination XC Ski Resort

For people interested in traveling to xc ski resorts this winter, here is info about making a destination selection from the editor of XCSkiResorts.com.

In general, xc skiers select their winter xc ski destination resorts using some rating system of how xc ski areas perform in eight categories of criteria including trail quality and grooming, scenery, food quality, staff friendliness and service, the ski lodge facility and family issues. There is a great range of xc ski areas in North America and in the eyes of xc skiers these characteristics delineate areas without concern to whether the area is an inn, a ranch, a day area, a destination resort, or a recreation park area. I've purposively avoided the issue of cost - whether you like to travel to distant resorts or only travel within your region, you will still compare the other criteria to select your destination resort.

The information below describes what a quality xc ski resort is all about in terms of services and amenities at some of the leading xc ski resorts in North America.

XC SKI TRAILS
Trail Quality relates to the skiers' comfort on the trails, even though those skiers might be at different skiing or experience levels. The trail signage should help skiers understand where they are on the area's trail network. And signs should help skiers know the direction that will help them return to their starting place. The trails should provide a skiing flow so there aren't too many long uphills or sharp turns at the bottom of steep downhills. One idea that is done at Lapland Lake in Northville, New York that makes trails seem less crowded is to have skiers go in the same direction (one-way). The result is that the trails never seem crowded. Jim Richards of Maplelag in Calloway, Minnesota said, "Feedback from the majority of our skiers let us know that they preferred double-tracked trails over single tracks. And we had overwhelmingly negative opinions about allowing dogs on the trails, too."

Some of the best xc ski areas are just blessed with great terrain for xc skiing. The location of Royal Gorge in Soda Springs, California is perfect for xc skiing as the area's land diversity offers flat, rolling and more challenging variety. And Jane Dulaney, marketing kingpin at the area comments, "Our Sierra maritime snow it consolidates well and is great for the base on our trails. This means that skiers can count on excellent conditions when they ski there.

Trail grooming can make or break the ski conditions. Olavi Hirvonen of Lapland Lake states, "We groom every morning unless we have to wait for the snow to dry out or cool off - and I groom the way I like to ski the trails myself." Hirvonen gets the Lapland Lake staff out on the trails after windy periods to rake and pick up the debris from trees like fallen limbs and pinecones because "I don't want the skiers to have to ski over the debris as it appears on the trails from the Springtime melt."
One thing that most of the best xc ski areas share in common is that they acquire and use the latest trail grooming technology to give them a mechanical advantage. They do not skimp when it comes to using snowcats with their grooming attachments to break up ice or powderize the snow into the finest trail surfaces.

Without getting into the details of grooming machinery and techniques, the personal pride of the area operators is paramount to the trail quality issue. Brian Wadsworth of Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana was a world class cross country ski racer, who groomed trails for eight years at the Ranch. He was selected by the Soldiers Hollow Olympic venue to groom the 2002 Olympic Cross Country Ski competition trails. He knows grooming from a technical and a skier's perspective. He knows the "best line tracks." But when he comments, "My goal is to be able to hold a World Cup race here any day of the winter" it sums up his pride and commitment to the quality of the trails at Lone Mountain Ranch.

STAFF SERVICE AND FRIENDLINESS
You know it when an area's staff is a great one - they seem happy to see you. In most instances, areas that have veteran employees have them because it is a great place to work. Most of these great employees do not need "customer service" training. They already have the personal touch. At Lone Mountain Ranch the staff has become "the hallmark in the industry," according to Wadsworth because they are "encouraged to create life-long relationships with the guests." Most of the people that work at the best xc ski areas want to work there as a lifestyle choice. This is apparent with their attitudes with the guests and about working at one of the best xc ski areas.

The Richards family, who own and run the Maplelag Resort in Callaway, Minnesota, treat their guests as part of their family. It may sound trite but their guests sincerely feel welcome and they state it unequivocally in testimonials. The staff often greets the guests by name. They Richards constantly ask their guests if there is anything that can be done and they drop everything to help their guests, be it in the lodge, on the trails, in the rental shop or at the dinner table. Richards feels, "One of us (the Richards family) is always around to help with our guests. It's fun to be talked to and pampered by the actual owners of the resort." Many testimonials from different areas claim the same thing with regard to their feelings about the service at the best resorts - they feel welcome, comfortable and "at home." And Maplelag avoids posting rules or signs saying "Don't do this or that."

RESORT LODGES
XC ski lodges can be designed to provide space, convenience and efficient utilization, but there are also other factors that make a difference to skiers. Ann Hirvonen of Lapland Lake states, "Clean is huge to us. We are cozy and convenient, but facilities such as restrooms can get pretty yucky, so we keep them in good condition throughout the day." Lapland also takes into account brown baggers (bring their own lunch rather than purchase food at the area) by offering them a picnic area. And they have a public shower and changing area for skiers, who want to clean up before their drive home.

At Lone Mountain Ranch, part of their ambiance is the historic facilities. Of course they have also added new updated facilities such as a dining room and some cabins, but many guests go there to enjoy the rustic and original facilities. "It looks like what people expect Montana to look like and we continue to renovate with cozy features such as antique furniture and old fashioned quilts to retain our historical aspects," said Wadsworth.

Royal Gorge's Wilderness Lodge has had the same managers for years and according to Dulaney, "they are fabulous with their employees and it trickles down to the guests."

The main lodge at Maplelag is the area's group meeting place, and it is a living folk art museum. Jim Richards has collected unusual items from around the world. He stated, "We work very hard cultivating this look to be a feast for the eyes." There are nooks and crannies where people can sit and relax, read a book, play games with the family, etc. The lodge also houses the main dining room, hot tub, sauna, massage rooms, rental shop, gift store and it is where the Saturday night talent show and dance takes place.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Whether Nordic skiers bring a picnic lunch, stop at a trailside snack shack or relax with a first class dining experience, the best areas usually are known for their outstanding cuisine. Good food service is a result of the area's commitment, quality chefs with pedigree culinary backgrounds, wine selection, and so on. A comment from Royal Gorge's Dulaney about the chefs at the Wilderness Lodge sums up the quality, "What these women do with food is just amazing and they've produced a cookbook, which is very popular with the guests and going into its third printing."

The Maplelag kitchen is run by Debbie, the chef who has been on the job on and off for 25 years. There is a window opening to the kitchen where guests can speak with Debbie and see the staff cooking the meals. They make everything from scratch using only natural and fresh ingredients. They call it homestyle, hearty, and wholesome and it is a unique menu that is endorsed by the guests. Richards' summarized, "Food is a real joy at Maplelag.

QUALITY FAMILY TIME
Some xc ski areas are highly touted for their commitment to families. They cater to family needs by "dealing with the kids." Ann Hirvonen of Lapland Lake says, "We are a family and we raised our daughter here and when you raise a family at a ski center, you focus on families. So our trails have plenty of flat terrain for kids and we offer pulks (sleds that skiers use to carry small children), children's sized snowshoes, skis, boots, and ice skates." XC skiing offers families an activity that they can all do together. And that can include a four-year old on Snoopy skis skiing right alongside of grandpa skiing on his pine tarred woody originals.

Child-oriented instructors are a key element for families. For the kids to have a positive attitude about Nordic skiing they must have positive first experiences. It is suggested that the most successful lessons do not intermingle children with their parents in the same classes. Kids get comfortable with child-friendly instructors as individuals and on subsequent visits the kids commonly request to take additional lessons so they can spend more time with those friendly instructors.

Another important way to cater to families is to offer a variety of other skiing and non-skiing activities. At Lapland Lake a game played in Finland called Napa Kiikku is organized on weekends and holidays. The game involves a pole on ice with a sled that goes around in a circle. Adult lessons are conducted to correlate to the time that the kids play the game.

Kids love a campfire by the lake, sleigh rides, or just playing on a big pile of snow. Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont conducts many kids "classes" from swimming to puppet classes or making stuffed animals. The kids' classes provide parents with some child-free time for going on harder ski trails or getting a massage while the kids are being entertained.

Jay Richards (Jim and Mary Richards' son) of Maplelag commented, "Seeing our large family with our own kids running around, being involved makes families feel welcome here. We try to make parents feel at ease about having their kids run around." Maplelag cabins and cabooses are great accommodations that can fit large families and the Richards try to help families focus on being together doing family activities. Serving meals "family style" is a key element to the atmosphere. But so are the other family activities such as the dance and the talent show. Baby sitting services are available on site, too. Jay feels that one of the biggest reasons families visit is that there are many families already at Maplelag every time people visit and that makes families feel welcome.

CONCLUSION
Of course, there are other criteria for selecting winter destinations - for example, couples that are looking for a romantic weekend will have different needs (and desires). There is something more memorable about traveling to a destination compared to going to the local trail network for a couple of hours to xc ski or snowshoe. Whatever your interests, there is a perfect xc ski resort for you.

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RESORT NEWS PAGE

News of XC Ski Resorts

and XC Skiing in North America

XC Action in the EAST

XC Action in the CENTRAL

XC Action in the WEST

Has Snowmaking at XC Ski Resorts Arrived?

Mike Gallagher Inducted in the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame

Yellowstone Begins to Adapt

Eat Your Way to Fitness

Milestones of Modern XC Skiing in the USA

Vermont's Nordic Ski Quest

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Adaptive XC Programs

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Smart Ski Travel Using the Internet

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What is Backcountry Skiing?

Vermont Ski Museum XC Ski Exhibit

GREEN EFFORTS at XC SKI RESORTS

Ski Walking - Get Ready for the Season by Hiking with Poles
by Pete Edwards - owner/founder/coach WWW.SKIWALKING.COM

Family XC Ski and Snowshoe Destination Vacations

Choosing a Destination XC Ski Resort

RESORT NEWS PAGE

News of XC Ski Resorts

and XC Skiing in North America

XC Action in the EAST

XC Action in the CENTRAL

XC Action in the WEST

Has Snowmaking at XC Ski Resorts Arrived?

Mike Gallagher Inducted in the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame

Yellowstone Begins to Adapt

Eat Your Way to Fitness

Milestones of Modern XC Skiing in the USA

Vermont's Nordic Ski Quest

[BACK TO TOP OF PAGE]

Adaptive XC Programs

[BACK TO TOP OF PAGE]

Smart Ski Travel Using the Internet

[BACK TO TOP OF PAGE]

What is Backcountry Skiing?

Vermont Ski Museum XC Ski Exhibit

GREEN EFFORTS at XC SKI RESORTS

Ski Walking - Get Ready for the Season by Hiking with Poles by Pete Edwards - owner/founder/coach WWW.SKIWALKING.COM

Family XC Ski and Snowshoe Destination Vacations

Choosing a Destination XC Ski Resort

Ski Walking - Get Ready for the Season by Hiking with Poles
by Pete Edwards - owner/founder/coach WWW.SKIWALKING.COM