Cross Country Skiing
Skinny skiing—aka cross-country skiing —is popular for all ages because it is accessible to beginners, it is affordable, and it is a fun way to enjoy winter!
One of the best things about the sport is its versatility — you can stroll at your own pace or go out for a serious workout; but regardless of how strenuous you make it, you’re still strengthening nearly every muscle in your body, including your glutes, core, back, chest shoulders arms and legs — all while enjoying the scenery.
While it is possible to go on your own and get the hang of the basic movement, you’ll learn faster and progress more quickly if someone teaches you. Additionally, a groomed area like Enchanted Forest offers the best environment to learn to cross-country ski — sort of like learning to kayak in a pond before heading for the rapids.
Frequently Asked Questions
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With downhill, or Alpine skiing, you ride a chairlift to the top of a mountain, then ski down — as long as your legs hold out or the lifts are open. With cross country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, you use your own power to travel across rolling terrain — and you still get to enjoy the downhills! Thanks to gravity, you’ll go a lot faster downhill skiing than cross country skiing. Cross country ski boots are also a LOT more comfortable to wear than downhill ski boots. Additionally, our free-heel, waxless class skis have a pattern on the bottom that enables you to “kick and glide”.
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These are different ways of describing the same sport. “XC” is shorthand for “cross-country.” “Nordic skiing,” which derives from the region where it originated, is just another word for cross-country skiing. There are two main ways to enjoy cross-country skiing: You can either classic ski or skate ski. With each one, your heel is always “free” (not connected to the ski as with downhill skiing) and you use your muscles and gear to move yourself forward.
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Classic skiing is most similar to how you walk or run, which makes it the best starting point for new cross-country skiers—many beginners can enjoy our trails even if they’ve never had skis on before, especially if they’ve had a lesson!
Skate skiing looks a lot like speed skating on ice. As you push your skis out to the side, you use the edges of your skis to propel yourself forward. It’s a fun and fast activity that many people can learn to enjoy, but it’s not usually where beginners start.
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Absolutely! We will need to make sure your boots are compatible with our skis. Our skis use NNN bindings which is the modern standard for cross country ski equipment. We also rent skis and poles a-la-cart.
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We have lockers and shelves to store your shoes or boots while you are out skiing but you may choose to leave your footwear in a locker or in your vehicle. We ask that any additional belongings like jackets, clothing and backpacks be safely stored in a locker or vehicle and not all over the Warming Hut.
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All rented equipment is due back by 4:30 pm. If you are running late, please call so we know you are safe.
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Wear layers: moisture-wicking long underwear, waterproof pants and jacket (insulated are good for cold days, but wind-proof and uninsulated are ideal for warm days), gloves, hat (or headband). Always wear sunscreen and UV sunglasses!
