cross country ski area options in New Hampshire
Choosing classic skiing or skate skiing
Snowshoeing at Vermont’s alpine ski resorts
Cross country ski getaways for women
Skiing on the trails of Breckenridge Nordic Center
You got the new cross country (XC) ski gear as a gift during the holidays or maybe you’re contemplating using XC skiing as a way to ward off gaining winter weight…how do you have a positive experience on your first few outings?
Here are some of the best secrets of XC skiing – insider tips from XCSkiResorts.com that can make a difference on whether you enjoy XC skiing or after trying it, you leave the gear in the garage until it becomes sidewalk sale fodder.
Where to go XC skiing? Avoid making your own tracks on a local golf course or unmaintained trail. At least the first few outings it is recommended that you go to a XC ski area or resort where they use machines to make the snow consistently skiable (Google cross country skiing near me). Take advantage of their tenderized trails instead of trying to deal with varied conditions in your back yard.
On your first few outings take a couple of lessons with different instructors. They’ll show you the ropes.
In the tracks in the Sun Valley, Idaho region
On your initial outings, ski on flat terrain and avoid significant uphill or downhill trails, if possible.
Don’t overdress. You’ll generate heat when XC skiing. Avoid cotton t-shirts and alpine ski wear – rather, wear a top and bottom base layer (long underwear), medium weight socks that will keep you warm if they get wet, light overpants and a turtleneck shirt. Wear a light weight jacket preferably with pockets and if it is cold, add a sweater. Find light gloves (more than a liner glove, perhaps with leather palms) rather than getting very wet hands from wearing alpine ski gloves. Consider bringing a second pair of light gloves. You can always add or remove layers, if you have them with you. A light hat is important, and bring a neck gaiter if it is a cold or windy day. If you are with a few people, make sure someone has some water to drink.
The final tips – don’t ski too far or for too long a time. If XC skiing is new for you it means that you’ll be using new muscles and body parts, and the techniques will also be new to you. Finally, stop and acknowledge nature and take some photos while you are out on the trails and have a great time!
When it comes to cross country (XC) skiing, the theory of what goes up must come down may be going out of style. Nowadays many people really enjoy the fun of just going downhill on XC skis, but they'd prefer avoiding the need to laboriously trudge uphill to earn that fun. Yeah, the skis have waxless bases that allow you to ski uphill without totally killing yourself, but it's so much easier with the onset of "lift or shuttle-served" XC skiing.
Simply put, lift or shuttle-served XC skiing allows the fun of the downhill with the use of a ski area lift or a shuttle ride so there's no need to "pay the price" of going miles uphill on skis. Of course, there are those who believe that one must earn such fun, but "no pain, no gain" may be a view that's, well a bit fuddyduddy.
At Bretton Woods in New Hampshire's White Mountains there is a $31 High Country lift ticket that gets an XC skier up near the summit to the Mountain Road by way of a chair lift, for a 7 kilometer (km) ski back down. The trail is easy enough and skiers can ski in the groomed tracks or on the flat skate lane, where they can make turns or snowplow.
The Bretton Woods lift ticket provides one ride on the high speed detachable quad (which slows down upon egress) and unlimited use of a T-bar, which is a few kilometers down the trail. The T-bar provides access to upper elevations of Mount Stickney and the Stickney Cabin, which has snacks, beverages and a place to hang out with indoor seating or outside by a stone fireplace. Skiing back to the Mountain Road offers some choices including a groomed trail or skiing through the glades (trees) with options for different levels of difficulty. The Mountain Road is one of the most fun trails to be had on XC skis in New England!
In the northwest at 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort there is a lift-served XC ski trail called the Summit Trail that is accessed near the top of Chewelah Peak. It descends and winds around the mountain for 12 km. On a clear day one can see all the way to Montana from the trail and many animal tracks or an occasional moose might be seen. It is a 2,000 foot decline in elevation but not all downhill though.
Other XC ski trails that are accessed by chair lifts can be found at Giants Ridge in MN with a free lift ride when you purchase a trail pass to access the 6 km Bronze Trail, the 6 km Summit Trail, or the 14 km Gold Trail. Boyne Mountain in MI has the Cold Springs Downhill trail. Royal Gorge in the Tahoe, CA area has two surface ski lifts for practicing downhill turns and also having accelerated fun.
Shuttles
At Garnet Hill Lodge, in North River, NY there's a shuttle ride from the bottom of a long downhill back to the lodge that has been offered since the early eighties. It originated when the lodge owner picked up skiers in his car and was then upgraded to a van and now it's a mini-bus. The shuttle is a free service for the skiers at Garnet Hill Lodge. Skiers must sign up for the shuttle and there are many routes that skiers can take using intermediate rated trails to reach the two pick-up locations that have a 500 foot and 900 foot vertical drop, respectively. Shuttles are offered daily and 3-5 times a day on weekends and holidays. During the week and on slow times, the shuttle is offered on demand.
The Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center in Gorham, NH is adjacent to the Mt. Washington Auto Road and offers an uphill ride to achieve "treeline status" in the SnowCoach, which is a tracked van. The comfortable heated tour takes folks to the 4,000 foot elevation up Mount Washington where the views are breathtaking. Intermediate and advanced skiers can handle skiing down this road as a thrilling four mile decent back to the base lodge. There are various price options for the SnowCoach.
Craftsbury Outdoor Center in Vermont has a free shuttle on the weekends that delivers skiers to the Highland Lodge for a 20 km return trek. There's a net drop of about 300 meters on the groomed trail, which traverses hill top pastures, farmsteads, and quaint Vermont villages. A shorter 5 km shuttled ride brings skiers back to the lodge from Craftsbury Village at the general store and deli.
At Methow Trails in Winthrop, WA the Saturday Ski Shuttle offers FREE transportation in January and February between Winthrop and Mazama for those looking for a one-way ski journey along the Methow Community Trail. A valid ski trail pass is required.
At Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, MT there is the Upper Trail Shuttle (available a few times per week) that takes you a couple of miles away from the facility and leaves you with a mostly downhill ski back to the lodge for about 10 km.
One might wonder that if the downhill ski run is the objective, why not simply go alpine skiing? The trails above are cross country ski experiences. They all require kick and glide techniques across some flat terrain and they do not have the consistent and necessary steepness for alpine skiing. As lift and shuttle services become more popular, they'll be available at more ski areas but until that happens, you'll have to seek out areas that offer this service if you want this level of fun on XC skis.
Skiing Through the Covered Bridge at Jackson Ski Touring in the Mt. Washington Valley, NH
The top New England ski towns are the topic of annual debate, but which are the top towns for cross country skiing? Some of the favorite New England towns and areas to go on a cross country (XC) ski vacation include Stowe and Woodstock in Vermont, the Mt. Washington Valley in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and Bethel in Maine. Here are more details from XCSkiResorts.com about XC skiing at these fabulous New England ski towns:
Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, VT is the home of the Trapp Family Lodge of the Sound of Music movie fame and there are other XC ski resorts in the nearby area including Bolton Valley, Stowe Cross Country Center, and Edson Hill. The town of Stowe, VT is quintessential New England with its white steepled church and main street lined with stores. For dining and shopping, Stowe has a full range of selection from down home breakfast nooks and retail shops to upscale restaurants and furriers. Trapp Family Lodge has a 110 km trail network with 60 km of groomed and machine-tracked trails.
Just over the mountain from Trapp Family Lodge is the Bolton Valley Nordic Center which features an alpine ski area and a resort village and there are more than 100 km of XC ski and backcountry trails that skiers of all ability levels can enjoy. The Nordic Center has 26 km of trails that are groomed for classic and skate XC skiing and additionally serves up some of New England's best backcountry terrain. There are guided tours for XC skiing and snowshoeing, clinics, and demo days scheduled.
Vermont’s Woodstock Inn & Resort
Woodstock, VT is another mecca that has inns, restaurants, unique shops, and a national park. The Woodstock Nordic Center offers more than 45 km of skiing right in town on two trail systems. The Mount Peg trails begin on the golf course at the Woodstock Country Club and climb to the summit overlooking the village below. On nearby Mt. Tom, the Center grooms more than 20 km of trails on old carriage roads in the midst of Vermont's first tree farm and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. The Woodstock Inn & Resort, which operates the Nordic Center is a 142 room AAA four Diamond Resort in the heart of Woodstock.
The Mt. Washington Valley in the White Mountains of New Hampshire has some of the best cross country skiing in the east with North Conway as the prime ski town in the region, but for cross country skiers, the town of Jackson is the paragon of New England towns. The JacksonXC is a non-profit organization chartered to provide and maintain xc ski trails in and about the village of Jackson on more than 80 private properties and the national forest. Country inns are spaced throughout the region. The base lodge is located on the village loop and the Ellis River Trail accessed through a covered bridge is famous for newcomers to cross country skiing. The best word to describe the experience of a cross country ski visit to Jackson is “enchanting.”
The Inn at Ellis River in Jackson, is a romantic bed and breakfast on the banks of the Ellis River in one of the most picturesque settings. Yankee Magazine editors have called this Inn a "great romantic retreat" and rightly so with the charming rooms, game room pub, sitting room, atrium-enclosed hot tub overlooking the river, and sunny dining room
Great Glen Outdoors at the base of Mount Washington in New Hampshire is nearby to Jackson and you'll discover this magnificent setting with 45 kilometers of cross country skiing, snowshoeing plus an ol' fashioned tubing hill offering everything needed for a full day of winter fun. Great Glen's scenic trail system offers an enjoyable combination of well-protected spruce and fir-lined trails plus wide open options offering breathtaking views into the Great Gulf Wilderness and surrounding peaks of the Northern Presidentials. On the trails is the Glen House Hotel built in classic New England vernacular, with clapboards, and painted trim with 68 rooms, a pub and a restaurant. For even more adventure, guests of all ages can enjoy a comfortable winter tour on the 9-passenger Mt. Washington SnowCoach, which transports guests to treeline (about 4,200 feet) on Mt. Washington into a sub-arctic world for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Mt Washington above the Bretton Woods Nordic Center in NH
Bretton Woods Nordic Center is a golf clubhouse that is transformed to a thriving cross country ski center in the winter on the grounds of the Omni Mt. Washington Hotel on the other side of the great mountain from Great Glen. It has 100 km of XC ski and snowshoe trails, and the grand hotel at the southern base of the mighty Mt. Washington has 1,700 acres of spectacular scenery. The Mountain Road accessed via a lift at the Bretton Woods alpine ski area offers spectacular vistas of Mt. Washington from a 7 km groomed trail down to Route 302.
Maine’s Bethel Inn
Bethel, Maine is home to the Bethel Inn and Carter's XC Ski Center, and Sunday River Resort's alpine ski trails. The XC ski trails, which meander through the woods to a picturesque covered bridge are canine friendly as are several inns along the trails operated by the nonprofit Bethel Inland Woods and Trails organization. The Carter's XC Ski Center has beautiful views of the Mahoosuc and Presidential mountain ranges, and the land has been in the Carter family for generations.
Bethel was settled in 1774 and it has retained its small town lifestyle. In 1999 and again in 2008, the town set the record with the Guinness Book for the World's Tallest Snowman, a towering 113 feet, 7 inches. Besides XC skiing and snowshoeing at the ski centers, there's alpine skiing, dogsledding trips, and snowmobile rentals available near Bethel. Many of the businesses in Bethel and all the other ski towns organize special events on winter weekends and vacation weeks to encourage people to get out and enjoy the snow.
So that’s the rundown of New England ski towns that should be on every cross country skier’s list.
Ask the general public to name an alpine skiing “Mecca” — described as a location where people, who share a common interest, yearn to go — even those who don’t ski can come up with at least Aspen or Vail, if not Killington and Sun Valley. But mention the Gunflint Trail or the Methow Valley to cross country (xc) skiers and more often than not, you’ll elicit a blank stare. Yet these are just two of several xc skiing destination resorts that devout xc skiers revere. In fact, each of the following five regions is definitely an “xc skiing Mecca” — each one, a destination that all traveling xc skiers have put on their “must visit” list.
Comprising the small, picturesque towns of Conway, Sugar Hill, Bartlett and Jackson in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Mount Washington Valley has a half-dozen xc ski areas, all at the base of the most majestic mountain in the eastern U.S., the 6,288-foot Mt. Washington. Here, the spectacular scenery is enhanced by hundreds of inns, lodges and restaurants, plus unsurpassed outlet shopping. Ski past mountain streams, a white steepled church, or over a wooden covered bridge on the network of 150 kilometers (km) of trails that glide past numerous inns and stores and through the woods in Jackson Village.
Up in Pinkham Notch, Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center features 40 km of trails for cross country or snowshoeing and the more adventurous can take a snowcoach up the Mt. Washington Toll Road to unparalleled views and then make the choice to ski, snowshoe or ride the coach down. On the other side of Mt. Washington, Bretton Woods Nordic Center has its Mountain Road Trail, a 7-km downhill thrill that might be the most fun to be had on xc skis in all of New England. Franconia Inn is tucked away but is known for great cuisine in the evening and more than 50 km of trails. The region also has dog sledding, snowmobiling, zip lines, and 7 alpine ski areas to round out the snow sports offerings.
The Hills are Alive
The “Sound of Music” is more than 50 years old and another production by the Von Trapp family, America’s first xc ski center at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont is just two years younger. Nestled beside Mt. Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, the lodge is among the most famous and diverse xc ski trail networks in the country. Three Stowe xc ski areas interconnect to provide roughly 150 kilometers of groomed trails, and there’s a link to backcountry ski 14 km to Bolton Valley Nordic Center via the Catamount Trail. Plus, with the variety of trails for snowshoeing around Stowe, it’s no surprise that the quintessential New England village is the original home of Tubbs Snowshoes, the largest snowshoe manufacturer in the world. Stowe's Recreation Path, which runs 5.3 miles along the river (and over 11 wooden bridges) and Route 108 is perfect for an easy snowshoe jaunt. Don't miss the Vermont Ski Museum in downtown Stowe or the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream headquarters (most popular attraction in the state) in nearby Waterbury, Vt.
Scandinavians settled by the thousands in Minnesota so it stands to reason that their national sport, cross country skiing, would abound in the state. The trails in northeastern Minnesota near Grand Marais offers more than 200 kilometers of groomed trails in the Laurentian Highlands adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Here, xc skiers enjoy moose yards, overlook ridges, old trapper trails and railroad beds. The Gunflint attractions include extensive stands of white birch, spruce, and aspen and spectacular cliffs.
Of course, in the land of 10,000 lakes there’s a multitude of frozen lakes and there is also a great chance that visitors in northern Minnesota will see the oscillating luminary curtains in the evening sky known as the Northern Lights. Perfect for those wanting to get away from it all, this area is less populated than other xc Meccas and the region is sprinkled with many isolated lodges, bed and breakfast inns, lakefront cabins, and yurts (large circular heated tents with hard floors, bunk beds and room for 6-8 people). And count on hearing the distant howls of timber wolves.
Northwestern delights
More than 70 years as a winter sports destination, the Sun Valley/Ketchum, Idaho, area was developed by railroad mogul, W. Averell Harriman to attract train travelers. Known for its alpine skiing, the area features more than 160 kilometers of trails and now it touts itself as "Nordic Town USA." The Sun Valley Resort includes the Sun Valley alpine ski area, a Nordic ski area on the golf course, and a selection of accommodations. The North Valley Trails run from the Galena Lodge back to town and Sun Valley along the river. Expect to see colorful performance striders and skaters alongside snowshoers out walking the dog on this popular avenue.
For superb backcountry skiing amidst forests of pine and aspen, head to the Sawtooth Mountains and its high mountain reaches laced with granite spires and inviting cirques. Here xc skiers can enjoy trekking and guide services, even overnight accommodations in backcountry huts and Mongolian-style yurts.
The Methow Valley in northwest Washington on the eastern slope of the North Cascade Mountains is one of the best kept secrets among xc skiers. A network of 200 kilometers of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing combines at Methow Trails with lodges like Sun Mountain Lodge and warming huts along the trails, which are surrounded by more than a million acres of national wilderness and forest lands.
Snowfall here is not only plentiful, it is also dry thanks to the moisture traveling across 100 miles of mountains from the Pacific Ocean to get to Methow. And after the snow arrives, a crystal blue sky almost always follows revealing the incredible scenic mountain panoramas. Located only 2,000 feet above sea level, this 40-mile-long xc skiing valley requires no altitude acclimation.
Many other North American regions could make the list of xc skiing Meccas, including Michigan's Grayling region and the statewide GoMichigan, California’s Lake Tahoe, Colorado, Lake Placid in New York, and Canada's Quebec and British Columbia areas. Start your own list of “must visit” xc ski destinations, and use XCSkiResorts.com to explore the many choices and then make some reservations to explore different regions in your next winter adventure.
Nordic Walking burns 40% more calories!
Staying active outdoors during the COVID-19 virus crisis is easy and very accessible with Nordic walking, which is a fitness activity that combines walking with specially designed poles to engage the upper body muscles. Like cross country skiing, the poles are used to match each step a person takes and it’s an easy, inexpensive workout with remarkable benefits - according to a study by the Cooper Institute, Nordic walking burns up to 18% more calories compared to just plain walking.
It’s better than just walking because it provides an easier cardio workout by increasing the heart rate 5-17 beats per minute more than normal walking without increasing the perceived rate of exertion. It also provides an upper body workout that includes shoulders, arms, chest, and back muscles. And it’s a low impact exercise, so it’s easy on knees and joints. Core muscles are used and Nordic Walking can exceed ordinary walking in that area as well and it can provide enhanced balance (particularly for older people).
A good pair of walking or running shoes, comfortable clothing, and Nordic walking poles will get anyone started.
People of ALL ages and ALL fitness levels can unlock the calorie burning and aerobic benefits of Nordic Walking. The winning combination of improved posture, unique 4-Wheel-Drive type action and the shock absorbing benefits of the poles help many individuals to walk comfortably - even those with balance issues, knee issues or new knees, hip issues or new hips, back issues (including those with rods in their back), weight issues, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's (PD), neuropathy, arthritis, bursitis, scoliosis, lumbar stenosis, fibromyalgia, post polio, osteoporosis, stroke recovery and other limitations to walking.
There are many videos and books about Nordic walking (or ski walking) and the Human Kinetics book produced in 2009 entitled Nordic Walking for Total Fitness by Suzanne Nottingham and Alexandra Jurasin has still got it covered. For those who are unfamiliar, Trekking (hiking with poles) and Nordic walking are two different activities that use very different poles and techniques. It may sound silly, but perhaps "walking is not just walking." The pole angle, weight, grip, and straps are different between the aforementioned modes of walking. The Nordic walking pole is designed to allow your hands to relax in order to target the larger wrapping muscles of the back. But using poles of any kind automatically stimulates your spine and all of the muscles around it, even with inefficient technique. When walking, the key postural muscles of the core and upper body are engaged.
There are Nordic walking technique progressions, fitness exercises, power training, and variations for balance, agility, and flexibility. In the aforementioned book, common technique errors are reviewed as well as uphill and downhill techniques, advanced cardio training, and drills for strength training and calorie burning.
The book also includes fitness assessments, sample workouts for varying levels of interests from first timer to cross training triathletes. There are also suggestions about customizing your program. Training program recommendations are offered for building distance, fluctuating daily intensity, and rest days. If this all sounds a bit like overkill, that's because it is, particularly if you are a recreational fitness enthusiast but you need read only as much of the book as you feel is relevant to your personal situation.
I've been a Nordic Walker for a few years and found many of the claimed attributes for the activity regarding posture and exercise to be true. I've always been in search of a way to decrease the amount of time spent exercising, so I was sold when I heard that using the poles increases caloric burning. The pole clearly provide a boost in uphill walking. Cross country skiers will find it easy to quickly master Nordic walking. As a bonus, after a summer of Nordic walking, I noticed a marked improvement in my cross country ski poling in terms of strength and timing. It seemed that I increased the amount of forward momentum that was attributable to poling and I was able to pole stronger and longer when skiing.
Nordic Walking provides an exercise foundation for anyone, ranging from those just looking for an activity to lose weight to health aficionados interested in taking it to higher levels of fitness.
California couple at Bear Valley Adventures
There was an unprecedented surge of interest in cross country (XC) skiing associated with the pandemic as people flocked to outdoor recreation. XC skiing gets you into winter outdoors which is particularly magical when the land is covered with snow. Your immersion in the environment on skis can also help with your wellness as XC skiing is known for delivering physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
If you want to try XC skiing, the most obvious suggestion for a positive introduction is to take a ski lesson. Here are some recommendations to get started from XCSkiResorts.com for the best ways to discover XC skiing across the nation:
Close to metropolitan Boston is Weston Ski Track, a local county-owned golf course that is accessible by public transportation. They’ve got snowmaking to guarantee the snow cover and lights to ski at night. A 75-minute session covers the basics for newcomers to XC skiing such as the motion, turning, and negotiating small hills. A package of rental gear, a lesson, and trail access will be an attractive price for kids and a bit more for adults. There are well-priced multiple session packages, too.
Further north in New England is Great Glen Trails in Gorham, NH where they encourage people to plan ahead and book on line because there are limits for the number of skiers in a 75-minute group lesson. They practice putting their boots in the ski binding on the carpet inside the lodge. Coaching in the small group lesson goes at a pace that is comfortable for the whole group to learn gliding, stopping, and getting up (just about everyone falls on the snow when they begin skiing). The views of Mt. Washington will astound you from Great Glen Trails.
Mt. Peg at Woodstock Nordic Center
The folks at the famous Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT (associated with the Sound of Music movie) like to start many newcomers on a softer ski and help them with basic techniques such as the kick and glide motion on skis, using the poles, and how to stop. These skills help the beginning skier get control on the skis. The soft ski will make it easier for the skier to turn and stop. Woodstock Nordic Center at the Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont has a golf course behind the inn that is a flat area with a picturesque creek running through it. Their unique 20-minute “Mini Clinic” is perfect for the first time skier and it includes the trail pass, one hour equipment rental and a lesson for special price. Get their four lesson deal and you’ll certainly be able master XC skiing.
At Lapland Lake Vacation Center in Northville, NY (near Albany) they customize the introduction to XC skiing experience to the skier’s level of ability. There is terrain with a wide modest downhill and a run-out to make skiers feel more comfortable.
In the central part of the USA is the Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, MI where on weekend mornings you can take advantage of free lessons for beginners in classic or skate skiing. Their Winter Trails Day is in January when there will be free access to the facility and a lesson with a complimentary hot cocoa and hot dog cookout; and it they have a low price for rental equipment if you need XC ski gear to use.
Maplelag Resort in Callaway, MN is a family-oriented operation that goes out of their way to make sure people are comfortable with these new adventures like XC skiing or snowshoeing and will want to come back for more. Maplelag is a community-based experience and many times patrons who are experienced skiers help provide extra attention to first time skiers. Be aware that a fire destroyed the Maplelag lodge in October 2022 and while the skiing remains open with a retail shop and warming hut, the lodge is no longer in operation.
Breckenridge Nordic Center lodge
In the Rocky Mountains, the folks at Breckenridge Nordic Center in Colorado will give a 20% discount if you register on the Internet for a group lesson. They specialize in working with people who have never been on snow and share the joy of the XC skiing by helping skiers learn efficiency and control. Josh Dayton who runs the operation has produced a 9-minute video that first timers can access with a QR code to watch in advance of their experience on the snow which covers the touch points about controlling the skis and maintaining balance. All staff at the resort are ambassadors who offer ski tips to anyone. As soon as the skier steps out the door there is a staff person there who helps skiers put the equipment on, review the trail map, talk about body balance, and so on. When people come to Breckenridge Nordic with old equipment, they get offered a free upgrade to see the difference that new gear can make in the skiing enjoyment.
The Lake Tahoe region boasts a number of California ski areas and Tahoe Donner Cross Country has low cost opportunities to help people learn basic ski skills while having a blast on the trails. The member price is discounted for a group lesson package that includes the rental gear, a trail pass, and a 75-minute lesson or tour with an instructor and other beginners.
In the Northwest, Methow Trails is hosting the Free Backyard Ski Day in January when there will be free access to the trails, free rental gear, and free lessons available for beginners at one of the largest trail networks in the US located in eastern Washington. These are just a few examples for people to try XC skiing this winter at XC ski areas across the nation - feel free to click through to any of the ski areas to find more information.
Light weight outing on a blue sky day. Cath Howard at Royal Gorge
As the cross country (XC) ski season winds down most XC ski areas close because of lack of skiers rather than lack of snow on the trails. The sun comes out, the temperature rises, and the XC skiers quit. Huh?
XCSkiResorts.com spoke with ski area operators around the nation to get their take on spring skiing. In normal years, many areas host springtime season pass holder parties and offer big discounts for purchasers of season passes for next year.
Lapland Lake in Northville, NY commented that their trails are compacted on a daily basis so the snow does not disappear like in the city or open areas in suburbia. Lapland's Kathy Zahray encourages skiers and snowshoers to get out and enjoy this weather and these great spring conditions!"
Zahray admits that “the reality is that in the spring it costs more for grooming and staffing than the amount of income earned from the diminishing number of skiing patrons, however this is one of the most fun times of the year to enjoy the outdoors. The milder temperatures and discounted rates are terrific for everyone and it is fun to ski in shorts and t-shirts." Lapland Lake is offering special lodging prices through the end of March at low prices.
Groomed trails awaits at Carter’s XC Ski Center
Carters XC Ski Center in Bethel, ME have host special programs for their patrons in March to encourage them to enjoy the springtime.
In Minnesota at Maplelag Resort, proprietor Jay Richards concurs "that people want to get on the snow early but get tired of winter and ready for warm spring days." He feels that "skiers in the Midwest are conditioned to colder and drier snow compared to skiers in other regions who are more accustomed to a wider variety of snow conditions."
Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton, VT has a big banner on its website offering discounts off day trail tickets, rentals, lessons and merchandise. This is a great incentive to attract skiers, snowshoers and fat bikers in the spring. Patrons who purchase the low priced season passes in the spring for next season get one free ski lesson, too.
Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT is offering private maple sugaring tours and they plan to stay open as long as the snow holds. Don’t miss the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall Restaurant, which is conveniently situated on the XC ski and mountain bike trails. The Bierhall is a gathering place for friends to enjoy “a little of Austria, a lot of Vermont,” serving fresh lager beers and a selection of freshly prepared Austrian lunch and dinner selections
At Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, MI they run spring events on machine-made snow but there has been warm weather and little snow late in the season. If there is new snow enough to groom, the trails will be open. Proprietor Lynne Frye invites everyone to celebrate all that is great about spring: long, sunny days of great cross country skiing in Michigan!
Breckenridge Nordic Center mountain views
The Breckenridge Nordic Center in CO has skiers who are enjoying the patio and lounging around with a glass of beer or wine. They expect to remain open through mid April, as the trail cover and base remains due to snowmaking in the fall. Owner Josh Dayton said “We’re having really fantastic skiing on beautiful sunny days and our snow holds up very well.”
Erika Halm of Methow Trails in Winthrop, WA stated, “This season has been another fantastic snow year! We have no shortage of snow but people stop skiing in late March which is really too bad because we often find the best skiing of the season comes in the spring. The trails are well packed, and the days are lighter and warmer making it much more comfortable to ski.
The website for Methow Trails in Winthrop, WA implores skiers to enjoy spring skiing at its best with sun, longer days, uncrowded trails, and the bird songs of new arrivals. Cold nights help keep the trails open for your skiing pleasure with the best skiing on trails groomed in the previous 24 hours. Usually trails will start to soften up quickly this morning. Spring skiing sounds delightful!
Cross country skiers rounding the corner
With a torrent of people hitting the trails and the outdoors across the country, XCSkiResorts.com wanted to give a shout out to hidden gem destinations for cross country (XC) skiing this winter. There may very well be an overflow of skiers at the most popular XC ski trails, so this guide will share some of the lesser known but excellent destinations.
In the east the Woodstock Nordic Center offers more than 45 km of skiing right in the town of Woodstock, VT on two trail systems. The Mt. Peg trails begin on the golf course at the Woodstock Country Club and climb to the summit overlooking the village below. On nearby Mt. Tom, the Center grooms more than 20 km of trails on old carriage roads in the midst of Vermont's first tree farm and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. The Woodstock Inn & Resort, which operates the Nordic Center is a 142 room AAA four Diamond Resort in the heart of Woodstock, a town that is the quintessential New England town with a wonderful collection of restaurants and shops.
Lapland Lake XC Ski & Vacation Center in Northville, NY features a touch of Finland in the Adirondacks from the food and the resident reindeer, to the Finnish woodburning sauna and children's games. They’ve got 38 km groomed for classic and skate skiing and 12 km of mapped snowshoe trails. The resort is located adjacent to the famed 133-mile Northville-Lake Placid Trail for limitless wilderness ski and snowshoe opportunities. Known for its courteous staff, this year-round family resort features a two-story warming lodge with a wax room, restrooms, changing room, and shower along with a snack bar, and eleven housekeeping cottages known as "tupas" that have fully equipped kitchens, living room, up to 4 bedrooms, electric heat, woodstoves, and a bath with showers.
The White Grass Touring Center is in the Canaan Valley and high Allegheny Mountains in West Virginia. It is a one-of-a-kind place to XC ski that gets 150 inches of snow annually. There's 50 km of trails that are groomed or maintained and the area has 1,200 vertical feet with slopes and glades for backcountry skiers, too. Established in the late 1970’s the “fleece and flannel” scene at White Grass is alive with a popular natural foods café.
XC ski destinations in the central regions include Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, MI which is a leading XC ski outfitter and ski area in the Higgins Lake area. Since 1974 this has been a premier destination for XC skiing in the heart of Michigan, with 19 km of trails groomed for classic and skate skiing for skiers of all abilities and there are also miles of trails all around the region. The Cross Country Ski HQ is known for its friendly and experienced staff, special events, and retail operation. Trails are groomed for classic and skate skiing characterized as 10% hilly, 50% moderate, and 40% flat.
Golden Eagle Lodge trail through the White Birch forest
The Golden Eagle Lodge in Grand Marais, MN is a family owned year-round resort located on Flour Lake sitting at the Height of the Laurentian Divide in the Superior National Forest. It has 70 km groomed trails for classic skiing and 60 percent of the trails are groomed for skating. The Baumann family owns the Golden Eagle Lodge, and they are the only residents on the lake, welcoming skiers to enjoy 120 inches of snow annually and the tranquility and solitude of the surrounding ancient forests. The lodge is also amidst the Gunflint Trail 100-mile system, which is a mecca for Midwestern cross country skiers.
Maplelag Resort in Callaway, MN is located in the northwest region of MN and is within an hour of Fargo, ND. Maplelag has 75 km groomed for skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. The Maplelag lodge was destroyed in a fire in October 2022 and the area trails are being maintained with a retail store and a few cabin accommodations with kitchen facilities.
Methow Trails is located in north-central Washington just below the Canadian border and anchored by the towns of Winthrop, Mazama and Twisp. It has more than 220 km (136 miles) of perfectly groomed skate and classic ski trails. Kids 17 and under ski free everyday in the Methow Valley. Many of the trails also welcome fat bikers, snowshoers, and dogs. Methow Trails is a non-profit organization dedicated to connect people, nature and community through world class trail systems.
Bear Valley fatbiking enthusiast takes it in
The Bear Valley Adventure Company is in Bear Valley, CA on Highway 4 on the west slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the land of giant Sequoia trees. Bear Valley is perfect for new or experienced XC skiers with a trailhead meadow surrounded by hills and ridges. It is at 7,000 - 7,800 foot elevation and boasts substantial annual snow depths making it in most years the first to open and last to close among the Sierra XC ski centers. There are 70 km on 38 trails groomed for classic and skate skiing with 2 kids trails, a popular sledding and tubing hill, the Snowbound Café and 3 trailside huts There’s a groomed downhill ski area nearby, too.
Cross country (XC) skiing dates back 6,000 years depicted in cave drawings and recently there have been some significant transformations in XC skiing to the benefit of everyone who does it.
Posing at the Grand Tetons near Jackson Hole, WY
XC Skis
The most recent trend in XC skis is no wax skin skis, which is a return of the 1970s mohair strips embedded in the XC ski base. Most of the brands have integrated the concept with a synthetic blend of skin material strips to provide consistent grip in variable snow conditions. The advancement of “kick pockets” in ski construction has also been helpful and the combination of skins and ski construction allow a lightweight ski to work well on groomed trails or in ski tracks.
XC Ski Boots
Today’s XC ski boots are much lighter and provide more support, comfort and warmth compared to boots of olden days. The support is supplied by sole stiffness, plastic upper cuffs, and straps while the warmth is incorporated with lightweight insulation products such as Thinsulate. There are XC ski boot model versions that accommodate a women’s foot with narrower heels, rounder toe boxes, and more curvature in the upper.
Adjustable Ski Bindings
The XC ski bindings are now adjustable while out on the trail with the ability for the skier to slide the binding forward or backward to adjust weight distribution. Move the binding forward to get better grip or backward to provide more speed or better glide.
PFOA Ban
The international ski racing organization has limited or banned fluorocarbon compounds in ski wax due to health and environmental concerns. The waxes contained PFOAs or polyfluorinated materials that are linked to cancer, birth defects, hypertension and strokes in humans.
Snowmaking on the trail at Rickert Nordic Center, VT
Snowmaking
There are more than 50 XC ski areas now that employ snowmaking after deciding to invest in using machines to make snow. The availability of less expensive and portable snowmaking systems are main motivations to use snowmaking, but other business-driven issues are relevant too, such as filling lodge rooms, running programs, and fulfilling season pass holders' desire to extend the ski season beyond Mother Nature's whim.
The XC Skiing Quiver of Gear
There are distinct segments of XC skiing that take best advantage of different gear. Recreational or performance skiing on groomed trails at the XC ski area or resort allows a range of comfortable stability for those who want to avoid skiing out of control to responsive super lightweight speed sticks for the more athletic work out.
Ungroomed trails through the forest and downhill mountain slope descents call for sturdier gear such as wider skis with steel edges and heavier boots and bindings. Narrow skin skis are great for the groomed trails at the XC ski area. Before purchasing equipment, it is best to consider what type of XC skiing you might prefer…or better yet, rent some different gear, get a tour guide or instructor, and experience the different XC ski segments over time for yourself to help make this decision.
All of these changes to the XC ski world are beneficial and they’ll provide a better experience for people to enjoy the sport and maintain their fitness outdoors in the winter.
This may be the best year to purchase a season pass to cross country (XC) ski at a nearby XC ski area. Such ski areas maintain and improve their trails. Why do ski areas need to charge for skiing - Because they staff an operation, groom the trails, use fuel to groom and offer keep buildings warm, upkeep for facilities and so on.
Groomed trail at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in CO, winner of the USA Today 10Best XC Ski Resort Poll
For the XC skier, if you have a season pass, it is less costly for trail access for each additional time that you go. If the daily trail pass is $20 and you purchase a season pass for $100, then going 10 times for the whole winter gives you access to groomed trails at $10 per outing. Go 20 times and it is $5 per outing.
You can get a season pass on-line so you do not even need to go to the ski area to get it. With regard to the pandemic, you can drive to the ski area, get out of your vehicle, put on your boots and skis, and go jump on the trails for a ski. No need to even go to the lodge which allows you to avoid crowds of other skiers.
Factors in selecting which ski area to buy a season pass among different ski areas might include where you like to ski or the kind of trails you prefer to ski. For example, some ski areas have easier or more difficult terrain or some have a higher quality of grooming (or they groom more often). Some ski areas have wider trails and some have more protected or open terrain. Do you take your kids or a dog when you ski - because some ski areas are easier for young people to ski and some allow dogs on their trails.
Your ski area selection may depend upon the price of the season pass or how convenient it is to drive to the ski area. Perhaps there are extra benefits that are included with the season pass such as discounts at the ski shop (retail), clinics, lessons, or programs; guest passes; reciprocal skiing at other ski areas; and so on.
One of the things that is often true is that the earlier you purchase the season pass in the year, the lower the price. Many ski areas offer a season pass near the end of the ski year so a pass purchased in March includes skiing in March and April, and the entire next ski season.
Research of season pass prices for 2021 at about two dozen ski areas showed different rates among the states and individual ski areas. In general, the adult passes ranged between $100 and $300 per year and the family of four costs range $150-570. Season passes for seniors run from $75-200 per year. Again, be aware of end of the season rates in March versus higher pre-season rates in the fall. There are various special offers such as midweek passes at Methow Trails in WA for $199 or 10 visit punch cards in Colorado that are $50 less than the unlimited season pass. Crystal Lake Ski Center in PA offers an individual season pass for $120 with an $80 fee for each additional family member. The lowest priced season pass found among the researched areas was at the Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, MI where it cost $38 for an individual and $70 for a family. So there’s advice about the concept of purchasing a season pass.
Family at Great Glen Trails under Mt. Washington in NH
Plan to gather up the kids and head to the hills this 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 and snowshoe 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:
EAST
Lapland Lake Ski & Vacation Center in Northville, NY has nightly bonfires on the weekends 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. The range of trails include many that are excellent for family skiers that have different ability levels. The overnight cottages have kitchens, too.
Pineland Farms in New Gloucester, ME has family programs to engage kids and adults with outdoors and educational activities such as XC skiing, sleigh rides, mountain biking, equestrian, exploring life and animals on the farm, apple cider making, milking a cow, and much more.
Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT is 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.
Kids of all ages will dig the Fun Zone at Smuggler’s Notch
Smuggler's Notch Resort in Smuggler's Notch, VT has a dynamic lineup of family programs with 1,000 acres for families that include XC skiers, snowshoers, alpine skiers and snowboarders. Smuggs as it is known, has teen centers, kids camps and the not-to-be-missed FunZone play area, all within the resort village with shops and restaurants, condo lodging, and walk-to free shuttles. There are XC ski and snowshoe trails and programs, winter walking, ice skating, and more. Recognition for Smuggs’ family focus has annually been awarded by numerous magazines.
CENTRAL
Maplelag Resort in Callaway, Minnesota is run by a 3-generation extended family and this resort has families coming back year after year.
The trails at Cross Country Ski Headquarters in Roscommon, MI are approachable, which means they can be skied by folks of different ability levels and that’s great for families to ski together. They got free XC ski lessons on Saturdays and weekend food and music programs for the whole family to make a day of it and have a memorable outing.
WEST
Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, CO has outdoor adventures from XC skiing and snowshoeing to Zipline, horseback riding and laser biathlon. There are "cowpoke camps" for overnight guests with kids in half and full day programs, heated pool, movie nights, game room, and more.
You'll be amazed by the giant trees in Sequoia National Park and Monument near the Bear Valley Adventures, in Bear Valley, CA. They’ve got junior sized XC skis and snowshoe rentals to fit kids and pulk sleds to pull the little ones. Sledding and tubing are also activities for the family to enjoy.
Fun on snowshoes - Laura Rose/SnowshoeMag.com
On a winter trail outing near my home, I ran into a neighbor and her granddaughter on snowshoes – and it was not going well for them. The kid was whining and uncomfortable and she headed back home (nearby) by herself. Grandma kept going and since she is a neighbor, I went along with her for a while and chatted. She was not aware of how to help her granddaughter have a good time snowshoeing on a cold winter day. Here’s a primer about going snowshoeing with the grandkids.
Snowshoes
You can get the kids snowshoes that are used or new but it’s best to get equipment that is appropriate for their size. For the youngest kids 4-8 years old get colorful snowshoes but most importantly ones that are secure and easy to put on. The Tubbs SnoGlow has LED lights, and also from Tubbs is a model called the “Snowflake.” Ideal has the SnoStompers for under $20, but expect to pay more than that for name brand snowshoes. Most of the companies have a snowshoe for kids.
Keep in mind that the older the kid the more important they’ll want “cool” looking snowshoes rather than a pair intended for babies. As kids get older, they’ll need a snowshoe that is intended for lighter people and has regular snowshoe and binding characteristics (looks and performs like an adult snowshoe).
Again, the key issue is that the snowshoes are easy to put on and easy to walk in. I’ve also found that it is easy to sell used kids snowshoes after your kid gets too big for them.
Snowshoers at any age - SnowshoeMag.com
Clothing
Light layers of clothing are comfortable and you can add or remove clothing as needed (i.e., if it gets too hot). A lightweight synthetic base layer of long underwear helps to keep you dry and transport perspiration away. A middle layer provides insulation such as a shirt or sweater and then a jacket shell on the outer layer works great. Don’t forget a headband or light hat and a pair of appropriate gloves. Alpine ski gloves may be too warm for snowshoeing unless it is very cold outside (or you have poor circulation issues).
The goal is for the kids to recognize when it is too cold or too hot and to encourage them to change to feel comfortable with the temperature. Wearing a backpack will allow kids to stash or pull out the extra clothes, and feel self sufficient.
Fun on Snowshoes
If you want it to be a good time for them (and you) you have to make the snowshoeing outing less “boring” and more exciting. Additionally, the first few outings should be short and easy so that the kids don’t feel that snowshoeing is “too much work.” Maybe they can use a camera or cell phone. Plan ahead and discuss what to look for - perhaps there are different kinds of scenic views, trees, animals, tracks, and silly poses that you can do. You can not stop too many times to take photos. Pose for them, take selfies, get some photos of them without you, send them out on social media, etc. You’re making and saving memories!
Perhaps you can print the pictures and create photo books of the adventures. Maybe the kids will discover that they love photography. It will give you an indoor activity to arrange the photos that you can do together with the kids.
Set up a scavenger hunt on the way out on the trail (hang or hide treats or something) and use the destination as a goal to be eligible to play the game. On the way back, the kids can look for and accumulate the hidden treasures.
Kids love candy and perhaps they’ll love to go snowshoeing to look for candy that is cached (hidden in specific locations in bags). Take them on a “Quest for the Candy” by following hints that you write in advance as a poetic treasure map to follow. This is a new type of orienteering for children.
“Orienteering” can be fun for older kids, whereby they snowshoe to find markers by using a compass. Set up five numbered markers in advance and figure out different ways to go to them by taking a compass reading. Give each snowshoer (or team of snowshoers) a compass and show them how to use it. Then see if they can go to the markers in a different but specific order. The first one to record all of the marker numbers wins.
“Snowshoe Biathlon” incorporates other backyard games such as ring toss or ball toss into a container. Set up a course and stations along the trails. If you want to have a competition, keep time as snowshoers race through all the stations to a finish line. Add time for each toss that is missed. If you do not have backyard games or are unable to easily create them, snowshoers can walk backwards or hop through a natural obstacle course at the stations. If you prefer not to have a competition, do the biathlon just for fun.
Choose the Trail
Don’t look down at your feet - look out at nature!
Make sure to take the kids on interesting trails and accept that “interesting” may be very different than it is for you. They may not like historic bridges or flat trails that lead to nothing. Have a destination such as waterfalls or a hilltop, or a site for wildlife spotting. Discuss this issue prior to planning the trek so you are aware of what they might enjoy. It may be like pulling teeth to get them to decide but it will give you a goal as to where to go. Make snow angels and slide down the hills and they’ll keep going. Be aware about whether the child is over his or her head – the trail may be too steep, too long, or you are not getting to the destination soon enough.
If you want to avoid all of this decision-making, go to a cross country ski area that can accommodate kids on snowshoes like Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center in Gorham, NH. They have a scavenger hunt called “Trail Tracker” which is a big hit for kids to track down signs of cartoon animals out on the trails. When they find the animated creature signs, they stamp a card and upon return to the lodge, they get a treat.
Hydrate and Snacks
Plenty of snacks and drinks are a must for a successful outing. If you are going out more than a half hour pack enough water or drinks. The kids get thirsty fast and they may like to play the “I’m thirsty” card when they want a break. Granola bars, sandwiches, energy drinks, fresh fruit and crackers can provide ample energy boosts but also consider some snacks that you know they enjoy like chocolate or candy bars.
A Great Time with the Grandkids
Try to teach them to have fun with snowshoeing. Take snack breaks or play I-spy in the middle of the woods to keep them interested in continuing to walk. Go for a snowshoe adventure rather than just a snowshoe hike.
Take the opportunity to get outside and enjoy nature and exercise, while at the same time get some bonding time with your family; you’ll be glad you did.
Rail Trail North Pathway in WY by Tim Young
In Lebanon, NH our greatest resources include the Northern Rail Trail and the Mascoma River Greenway, trails that were created on an old railroad line in the region. These multi-use corridors create powerful opportunities for active transportation and physical activity—improving our health and well-being and safely connect people of all ages and abilities to jobs, schools, businesses, parks and cultural institutions.
Older trail enthusiasts and potential trail users can thrive on the rail trails because they have been built with a minimum of grade for the railroads. In short, this means that these trails do not have significant uphill or downhill aspects so they are easier and safer to enjoy for recreational trail uses such as cycling, walking, running, hiking, horseback riding, dog sled training, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, bird watching, and to gain access to fishing areas.
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors to build healthier places for healthier people. Thirty years ago, a group of walking and biking enthusiasts, railroad history buffs, conservation and parks groups, and active-transportation activists began meeting regularly in Washington, D.C., to mobilize efforts to preserve unused rail corridors for public use. The group quickly realized the need for a dedicated organization, and on Feb. 1, 1986, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy opened its doors.
RTC serves as the national voice for more than 160,000 members and supporters, 31,000 miles of rail-trails and multi-use trails, and more than 8,000 miles of potential trails waiting to be built, with a goal of creating more walkable, bikeable communities in America. The national RTC office is located in Washington, D.C., with regional offices in California, Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
RTC has supported the development of thousands of miles of rail-trails and multi-use trails for millions of people to explore and enjoy. The work combines national policy advocacy and research expertise with on-the-ground trail development. RTC advocates for trail-friendly policies and funding at the federal and state levels—in the courts, in Congress and throughout the country. This trail development work has helped hundreds of communities in America plan, build and maintain trails in urban, suburban and rural areas.
Elizabeth River Rail Trail by KR Murphy
Since 1986, they’ve worked from coast to coast, supporting the development of thousands of miles of rail-trails for millions to explore and enjoy helping to craft rural trails that spool out over a hundred miles of open prairie, snake through mountain passes, span canyons and hug riverbanks, offering views of the countryside often unknown to the highway traveler. These trails are part of the connections between towns and suburbs, linking communities along vibrant corridors in much the same way as the railroads did in their heyday.
RTC’s mission, and its value, is magnified in urban areas, where one mile of trail can completely redefine the livability of a community. Where trails are more than just recreational amenities, creating opportunities for active transportation and physical activity—improving our health and wellbeing—as they safely connect us to jobs, schools, businesses, parks and cultural institutions in our own neighborhoods and beyond. And, through the promotion of rails-with-trails—trails alongside active rail lines—they are now unlocking the true potential of transportation systems that reflect how people really get around in the 21st century.
Northern Rail Trail
XCSkiResorts.com Editor rides the Northern Rail Trail
In my hometown, the trails are used by people of all ages, from toddlers to senior citizens, for cycling, walking, running, hiking, horseback riding, dog sled training, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, bird watching, to gain access to fishing areas, and even by handicapped people with walkers and in wheel chairs! This use includes residents of the contiguous towns as well as many surrounding areas, and from Vermont and Massachusetts and other New England areas.
The Friends of the Northern Rail Trail in Grafton County (FNRT) is a non-profit organization, founded in 1996, dedicated to the conversion of the Northern Rail Corridor into a multi-use recreational trail. The Friends have built an organization of approximately 130 paid members from all over New England, with the majority from the Upper Valley, and a twelve member volunteer Board of Directors who come from many Upper Valley towns and represent a variety of interests including cyclists, runners, snowmobilers, hikers, and cross country skiers. The Friends also have a strong base of volunteers who attend workdays and activities.
In support of the trail development in Lebanon, Enfield, Canaan, Orange, and Grafton, the FNRT has sponsored its own workdays and held clean-up days. This work has included removing ties and metal, decking bridges, bridge demolition and reconstruction, clearing brush, ditching, signage installation, landscaping and mowing, litter clean-up and surface improvement work.
The FNRT has promoted the trail through a newsletter and local newspapers, as well as at events sponsored by Riverfest, the Upper Valley Trails Alliance, and Eastern Mountain Sports. The Friends have written and received numerous grants and maintain a web site (www.northernrailtrail.org), which has allowed new users to get information about the trail including surface conditions, access points, and nearby facilities.
A series of color maps and informational displays of historic interest, produced by volunteers have been posted at various points along the trail. A number of small parks have been developed through the efforts of the organization and other volunteer groups in Lebanon and Canaan. Finally, benches have been placed at scenic intervals along the trail, which people find comforting for rest breaks.
Take the kids on a memorable cross country ski outing (Great Glen Trails)
You might save money by giving your kids outdated and hand-me-down cross country ski equipment, a heavy nylon parka, and a fur-lined cap with earflaps, but this gear will increase your kids' chance of having a rotten time while cross country (XC) skiing.
Improper equipment may be too heavy, cause blisters, and expose kids to frostbite. Too much or too heavy ski clothing (often used by alpine skiers when they go XC skiing) will lead to a common but misguided perspective: that is, XC skiing is tiring and "too much work." Dress correctly and get equipped properly and XC skiing can be a blast.
Poorly equipped kids won't be able to glide, turn, or stop as quickly as their appropriately outfitted friends. They may have trouble getting the skis to grip while going up hills. How much fun is that?
Use the tips in this article to get properly fitted equipment and clothing for children, whether it's brand-new or previously used. As they grow out of gear and clothing, pass them on to another child but make sure that it is appropriately sized for the one receiving the hand-me-down. Some shops have buy-back, trade-in, or long-term rental plans for children's gear, so check with ski shops in your area.
The Right Gear
Waxless skis are great for kids and even toddlers can enjoy a stroll on wide plastic XC skis that they can strap on to their regular snow boots. Make sure the boots fit well and feel as comfortable as a pair of sneakers. Sizing XC skis has changed so you can have short skis that are both very maneuverable and provide long glides. Use the "paper test" to see if a particular pair of skis supports your weight effectively for both gripping on the uphills and gliding on the flat terrain or downhills. Here's how to do it: On a hard floor surface, you should be able to slide a piece of paper under the skis when you stand evenly weighted on both of the ski centers. When all of your weight is applied to one ski at a time, the paper should be unable to slide.
Light layers of clothing should help you feel comfortable and you can always remove a layer if you get too hot while going uphills. A lightweight synthetic base layer of long underwear helps to keep you dry and transport any perspiration away. A middle layer that provides insulation such as a shirt or sweater with a jacket shell on the outer layer works great. Don't forget a headband or light hat and a pair of appropriate gloves (not alpine ski gloves) that are made for movement.
Have Fun
Kids love to race (Fischer Sports)
Make sure XC skiing is fun for the child; this means avoiding strenuous hills and scary out-of-control downhill runs. The key is for your child to have a positive experience on the first few XC ski outings. It may be easier (and a good decision) to have your child begin with a qualified instructor in a class with other kids. After the lesson, join him or her for an easy family XC ski to a nearby destination.
XC ski areas often have special terrain or incentives for kids. Trail Tracker is a scavenger hunt at Great Glen Outdoor Trails Center in Gorham, NH, which is a big hit for kids to track down cartoon animals out on the trails. When they find the animated creatures, they stamp a card and upon return to the lodge they get a treat. Other programs at Great Glen include the winter-long Bill Koch Ski Club, Ski with a Naturalist, and a day long Kids Ski Fest.
Annie’s group at Methow Trails (Valley Photography)
The Methow Trails in the Methow Valley in Winthrop, Wash. welcomes “kids to XC ski free” for those aged 17 or under! They also invite kids to participate at no charge in their 4 annual on-snow race events.
"StorySki" trails are 1-kilometer XC ski loops lined with the stories of delightful children's books by local children's book author and illustrator, Erik Brooks. The 3 Methow ski trails allow young skiers and their families to ski while reading an entire book and gliding through the magic of winter in the Methow Valley with 18 colorful story-panels that usher kids along the trails for a self-guided storybook tour.
The Methow’s "Wild Side" trails appeal to slightly older kids (6-12) and encourage playful skill building on skis through engaging challenges that the panels suggest.
Bring some chocolate treats, talk about animal tracks, and encourage your child. Make it about more than skiing, and it can give you many years of quality family time and memories cross country skiing with your children.
Motivate yourself to get out on the trails!
Lean snow years across the country have had effects on cross country (XC) skiers. There have been droughts and sunny stretches in the west, ice storms, meltdowns, and freeze ups in the central and eastern regions, and more. This is not intended to be a meteorological report; it is an annual ritual and a skiers’ lament! And another one of the greatest challenges for many people who love to XC ski regardless of the snow conditions is making time to get out there. Skiers struggle with this, but there are easy ways make time and to be more prepared to enjoy skiing.
Skiers can reframe their perspective on the sport and here are some tips from the folks at XCSkiResorts.com:
Event Skiing
Making skiing a big event means that it requires preparation, planning, travel, and so on. You can make plans to go to a ski area or resort, trail network, or a famous ski destination such as Sun Valley, Lake Tahoe, Methow Valley, Colorado, Stowe, VT or Jackson, NH and these destinations depend on travelers. Obviously XC skiing is not only a form of recreation, it is also a business that will not survive if skiers do not visit spiritual Mecca’s such as the ones listed.
Not every ski outing needs to be such an event. It takes time to consider and plan a trip to these destinations and the weather has a way of impacting the advance planning. We can expect that if we visit one of these destinations that it will be memorable, but if you live where there is snow, there are plenty of days in the winter when you can get outside and enjoy XC skiing and this takes into account that you may have to work five days a week and all the other things that you need or want to do.
Spontaneous Outings
There is no guarantee that the snow conditions will be perfect no matter how much planning you do to prepare for your event. To take advantage of spontaneous skiing, you need to be prepared for the moment.
Get an accessories bag or ready-to-go-ski kit together
When it is time to go skiing it should only take a few minutes to get out the door. Of course, it takes some time to dress with base layer, selected socks, and top (ski shirt) and bottom (ski pants). I admit that it may be a bit obsessive to organize a "get away" bag of accessories; but the first step to get on the snow quickly entails reaching into my oversized bag that is readily available to get the accessories needed. This is a common sense list of things that you might need and here’s an entire article about setting up your Accessories Bag. Perhaps such a bag can also be developed as a “Ready to Go Ski Kit.” The kit is simply available to go anytime, anywhere, no matter what. My full accessories bag has snowboard gear (hats, gloves, sunglasses, goggles, hand and toe warmers, repair and replacement stuff, etc.) and it contains a smaller XC ski backpack that has XC-specific gear (survival stuff, spare gloves, water bottle, etc.)
Skis, boots, and poles must be readily accessible, and some people just leave this gear in their car during winter. My gear is in the garage next to my car, so it is easily available. Perhaps you might leave gear in your car that is not your prime equipment so that if it is stolen, it will not be the end of the world. I cover my gear in the car with a blanket to dissuade potential robbers. When it’s time to go skiing, I grab my Accessories Bag, ski boots, poles and skis and I’m off to ski.
If you have waxable skis, you are probably aware about waxing and your associated wax accessories and can get it together quickly, but I feel that having no-wax skis can be an important part of the equation because they save time and eliminate the need for waxes and associated accessories. You may sacrifice some performance due to your type of waxless ski (old, new, skin, pattern, etc.) but the intention is to get out quickly rather than get optimum ski performance. Conceptually the Ready to Go Ski Kit is set up so that you will not have to go through such a long mental checklist every time you want to go skiing.
The key thing is to establish your kit and gear readiness so you can go skiing when the opportunity presents itself – early morning, at lunch break, coming home from work, or whenever. You can literally pull over at the side of the road and go for a ski. Perhaps a nearby open field has set up and would be great for crust cruising or maybe new snow has made that popular riverside trail magical for a short jaunt.
Where Else to Ski
If you are dedicated to a certain ski area, a season pass makes great sense for the quickest and least expensive way to more regularly enjoy the groomed trails. The more often you go to a ski area, the easier it will be to get out on the trails because of familiarity with the situation. You could also check XC ski area websites to find advance online discounts that might be available. I bookmark my local ski area website ski condition reports on my Smartphone and it is amazing how valuable this is if I want to quickly decide which area to visit on a given day. The areas post their conditions, the weather, special events and programs, and more.
Some states have ski area organizations that have developed a reciprocal pass program where you can use your season pass to visit different ski areas in the state. This may be helpful to seek the best ski conditions in your region. Additionally, about forty XC ski areas now employ snowmaking and that can guarantee snow cover at those areas (check a list of some of the ski areas with snowmaking).
Finding Others to Ski With
Jackson Ski Touring Center like many other ski areas has programs to bring skiers together
If you don’t like skiing alone you could develop a list of other skiers who can be spontaneous and ready to go. The call to ski may be a day or two in advance, or perhaps it can be a text on the prior evening to make arrangements to meet at a trail. Talk with other skiers and ski area employees to start your list of others. Maybe you can ask other skiers who you have met at the area or on the trail. Carpooling or ride sharing might help you to ski more often.
You also can participate in programs such as JacksonXC’s Friday Sliders group or join a ski club at other ski areas. You can send out a message to club members (or your list of other skiers). Keep in mind that in many cases, involving other skiers may make things more complex and not align with a spontaneous outing.
Many of us are fair-weather skiers looking for the best circumstances – but you may be surprised even if the snow conditions on a given day are not soft or have a cover of sleet, or are wet because of rain or warm temperatures. Experiencing different conditions can be fun to see how techniques and equipment are put to the different tests. The key point is, motivate yourself, make time, and get out there to XC ski!
Warm up, ski safe, and avoid obstacles
Cross country (XC) skiing is a sport with a very low incidence of injuries for a number of reasons including the low impact nature of XC skiing, low sliding speed, and the free heel allows twisting if you fall (the ski boot is connected to the ski binding only at the toe and the heel is free), but there may be some injuries during the ski season in falls or by aggravating pre-existing conditions. Like the Maytag repairman, ski patrollers at XC ski areas are not the busiest employees at the XC ski area because they do not have to address many serious skier injuries.
According to Sophia Sauter, a registered physiotherapist, who authored an article in "Active Life Physiotherapy" about 75% of injuries sustained by XC skiers are a result of overuse due to the repetitive nature of skiing, while the remaining 25% are a result of trauma. The following outlines some common injuries and appropriate treatment.
Traumatic XC ski injuries (25%), for example include ankle sprains, thumb sprains, knee ligament sprains, groin muscle strains, and wrist sprains. Upper body injuries are often the result of falling down but since XC skiing speeds tend to be somewhat slow, the impacts are often less severe than impacts at much higher speeds. The recommended treatment for the traumatic injuries is RICE: Relative rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Then, slowly restore range of motion, strength, proprioception (such as the ability to drive using brake, accelerator, and steering wheel without looking at your arms and legs), and power. It's suggested to see a physiotherapist to obtain a proper diagnosis and set of rehabilitative exercises.
Overuse injuries (75%) from XC skiing, for example could include (not intended to sound like a list of possible side effects in a pharmaceutical ad) knee pain, compartment syndrome on shins, Achilles tendon problems, rotator cuff and shoulder problems, and low back pain. The recommended treatment for these problems is a bit different. In these cases it's important to correct muscle imbalance (e.g. tight/weak), equipment faults, and possible training errors. Seek medical advice from a physiotherapist or other qualified health professional specializing in injuries common to XC skiers.
Most people skip the warm up or preparing for recreational activity altogether, but the best way to avoid injury is prevention. This means utilizing appropriate training progressions, maintaining physical strength, balance, flexibility, adopting appropriate recovery techniques, and treating any lingering individual alignment problems, weaknesses, and imbalances. It makes sense to warm up before hitting the trails. The physiotherapist suggests a full body analysis with a professional to identify individual mechanical inadequacies. Also consider an athlete specific core stability and functional strength program. Popular core-strengthening strategies might include yoga, Pilates, and a regular fitness regimen.
Think about getting in shape, warming up, and dealing with your injuries before going out on the trails and you can start your next season off right!