Cross-country Skiing
"Glide through snowy forests and across frozen lakes on a pair of cross-country skis. Experience the thrill of the winter wilderness as you breathe in the crisp, cold air and exert yourself in a full-body workout. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for a new outdoor adventure, cross-country skiing has something for everyone."
Cross-country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, is a popular winter sport that involves skiing over long distances on groomed trails. Unlike downhill skiing, cross-country skiing is done on relatively flat terrain, and involves propelling oneself forward through the use of skis and poles.
The origins of cross-country skiing can be traced back to Scandinavia, where it has been a traditional means of transportation for centuries. Today, it is enjoyed by people all over the world as a recreational activity and competitive sport.
One of the great things about cross-country skiing is that it can be done almost anywhere there is snow. From groomed trails at ski resorts to backcountry routes through remote forests, the options for where to ski are endless. Many people also enjoy skiing on frozen lakes and rivers, which provide a unique and beautiful setting for the sport.
In terms of why you should try cross-country skiing, there are many benefits. In addition to being a fun and exciting outdoor activity, cross-country skiing is also an excellent form of exercise. It works the entire body, including the arms, legs, and core, and can provide a great cardiovascular workout. It's also a low-impact activity, making it easier on the joints compared to other high-impact sports.
To get started with cross-country skiing, all you need is a pair of skis, poles, and proper footwear. You can choose between classic cross-country skis, which are narrow and have a groomed track down the middle, or skate skis, which are wider and allow you to push off to the side to mimic ice skating. You can also choose between different types of bindings and boots, depending on your preference and skill level.
Once you have your equipment, it's time to hit the trails! If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to take a lesson or two to learn the basics of technique and safety. With a little practice and persistence, you'll soon be gliding through the snowy landscape with ease.
So why wait? Bundle up and hit the trails for a thrilling and rewarding experience on cross-country skis.
Here's some of our favorite cross-country ski trails
Bear Gulch
Ashton, Idaho
9.7 miles NE of Ashton, IdahoBear Gulch is an abandoned ski hill out of operation since 1969. While the vegetation is beginning to take over, there's still some great sledding to be had. It's just far enough into the...
Camp, Cross-country Ski, Hike, SledTeton Lakes Golf Course
Rexburg, Idaho
1.7 miles NW of Rexburg, IdahoThis golf course is open year round, for golfing in the summers to cross country skiing in the winter. During the winter the course has over two miles of groomed cross country ski trails. You can...
Cross-country Ski, Sled 0.6-4.7 miHarriman State Park
Island Park, Idaho
8.3 miles SW of Island Park, IdahoHarriman State Park is found 38 miles from Yellowstone along Henry's Fork. This 11,000-acre wildlife refuge is open year round for most activities. In addition to having beautiful scenery and...
Cross-country Ski, Hike, Horseback, Mountain Bike, SnowshoeMesa Falls
Ashton, Idaho
10.0 miles NE of Ashton, IdahoUpper Mesa Falls, aka Big Falls, is an absolutely awesome waterfall on the Henrys Fork of the Snake River. The falls drop 114 ft. and measure 300 ft. across. To get to the falls from the parking lot...
Cross-country Ski, Hike, Kayak 3.2-47.0 miYellowstone Branch Line Trail
Ashton, Idaho
7.6 miles NE of Ashton, IdahoYellowstone branch line trail runs from Warm River to the Montana border totaling 39 miles. There are a few places to jump on and off the trail as well as a few smaller trails that branch off of this...
Backpack, Cross-country Ski, Hike, Horseback, Mountain BikeMueller Park Trail
Bountiful, Utah
2.9 miles SE of Bountiful, UtahThe Mueller Park Trail is a great year-round trail that's almost right off the road. It's considered moderate difficulty. It's a gradual grade with beautiful views. It's a popular...
Cross-country Ski, Hike, Mountain BikeMccall Area
McCall, Idaho
10.4 miles NE of McCall, IdahoMcCall is a beautiful resort town located in western Idaho, two hours north of Boise. It's feautures a multitude of activity of activities in both the Winter and Summer months, including:...
Backpack, Camp, Canoe, Cross-country Ski, Hike, Kayak, Mountain Bike, Sled, Snowshoe, Swim 5.7-8.1 miSpace Cruz
Ririe, Idaho
9.0 miles E of Ririe, IdahoCLOSED. This land is owned and managed by the US Forest Service and the upper portions of this route are not designated for use. As of July 2024, being caught mountain biking on PINE LOOP or THE...
Cross-country Ski, Mountain Bike 1.1 miChristopher Creek Campground
Payson, Arizona
17.3 miles E of Payson, ArizonaChristopher Creek is a popular campground situated just east of Payson, nestled between the Christopher Creek river, and the town of the same name. This site is used for both overnight and day-use...
Camp, Canyoneer, Cross-country Ski, Hike, Swim 3.8 miKelly Mountain Trail
Ririe, Idaho
8.2 miles E of Ririe, IdahoKelly Canyon Trail is a moderate, uphill trail that can be used by hikers, mountain bikers, and ATV riders. The trail features views of hills, mountains, trees, wildflowers, and some wildlife. Dogs...
Cross-country Ski, Hike, Mountain Bike, Snowshoe- Plan Ahead and Prepare. Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit. Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies. Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use. Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups. Repackage food to minimize waste. Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces. Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow. Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams. Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.
- Dispose of waste properly. Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter. Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.
- Leave what you find. Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them. Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species. Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.
- Minimize campfire impacts. Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the environment. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
- Respect wildlife. Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers. Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely. Control pets at all times, or leave them at home. Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.
- Be considerate of other visitors. Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail. Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock. Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors. Let nature's sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.