Truckee Reservations - Exclusive 10% Discount

Cross country skiing is a fun activity that many people participate in each winter. Cross country has its own unique appeal. This sport has its own special equipment and is done at many different kinds of snowy locations and can be affordable, is enjoyable, and provides good exercise.
 
The cross country version of skiing has a different appeal than downhill skiing and can be less expensive. Cross country only requires skiing equipment and snowy terrain at a minimum, and it may not require the purchase of a lift ticket.
 
Also called Nordic skiing, cross country skiing can be done at a slower pace than downhill skiing, allowing the skier to enjoy a lot of beautiful scenery. They may take as much time as they like to adore scenic views, but downhill skiers move faster and must keep their eyes directly in front of them to avoid falling or hitting a tree.
 
Cross country provides excellent aerobic exercise. A cross country skier uses upper body and lower body muscles allowing those who ski regularly to tone almost all of their muscles. It is a low-impact workout, easier on the knees, ankles, and other joints than lots of other sports.
 
Cross country skiers use different equipment than downhill skiers. Cross country ski boots only attach to the skis at the toe. This allows the skier to lift his heel in a walking motion that permits access to many different kinds of terrain. Planting ski poles assists forward gliding movement.
 
Cross country skiing is done in two different styles, classic and ski skating. The classic style skier glides forward on the flat bottoms of his skis. Classic skiers can ski on long backcountry trails that have varying amounts of ice and snow cover, using their ski poles to help them through rough spots. A ski skater skis on the inside edges of his skis in a V shape that is similar to ice skating. Ski skaters tend to ski faster and they ski best on groomed trails.
 
There are several kinds of cross country skis. In-track touring skis have less of a difference in width between the middle of the skis and the ends of the skis. These skis are excellent for classic skiers who use a kick and glide walking motion while skiing. Off-track touring skis are also available. Off-track skis have wider ski tips and are better suited for skiing in deep snow and on ungroomed trails. Skating skis are narrower than touring skis and make it easier for one to ski in an ice skating style.
 
Nordic ski parks specialize in cross country skiing and provide groomed trails that are easy for a beginner. Ski shops and ski parks offer equipment rentals. If you use rented skiing equipment, this can be a great way to try out the sport. Ski lessons are also offered at popular skiing venues. Lots of cross country ski buffs make up their own ski tours by skiing in ungroomed parks, golf courses, and on dirt roads.
 
Cross country, or Nordic skiing, can be a fun activity for anyone who wants to enjoy nature and some good aerobic exercise. Newcomers should seriously consider taking a lesson or two in order to get comfortable with the equipment and the techniques of this sport. As long as there is enough snow on the ground, cross country skiing will always be an enjoyable and popular sport.