Skiing In The City
Places To Go Cross Country Skiing
2021 is my first time trying Cross Country Skiing. I started by renting my skis and taking lessons at Theodore Wirth Park. I immediately enjoyed it. I knew I needed to start doing my research so this is where I started:
1.) Finding places to go around the Twin Cities.
2.) Look into what gear to wear for the weather.
3.)Where to buy my skis, poles, bindings and boots.
First let’s talk about where to get rentals and/or purchase your equipment. I went to Hoigaards because it was the closest to my home. Other places to rent are Gear West, REI, The Loppet .
Places To Cross Country Ski In The Twin Cities
1.)The Loppet Foundation- Theodore Wirth Trailhead
Photo by Instagram @loppetfoundation
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
It’s a scenic retreat in the heart of Bloomington. Hyland Lake Park offers breathtaking prairie landscapes and a major body of water as well as a large play area, the Richardson Nature Center, Hyland Hills Ski Area, an 18-hole disc golf course and a 3-hole disc golf practice area. With so much to do, this park has endless opportunities for outdoor fun.
Image from Instagram @
3.) Carver Park Reserve
11.3 miles of trails
An extensive network of trails groomed for skate and classic skiing winds through the western portion of the park, passing scenic overlooks along the way. One trail leads to Lowry Nature Center. Skiers ages 12 and older must have a Three Rivers Park District daily or annual cross-country ski pass.
NEW FOR THE 2020-21 SEASON: Classic and skate ski equipment rentals are available to reserve online up to seven days in advance, when conditions permit.
Don't forget to check the trail conditions before you head out.
Image from Instagram @threeriverspark
Three Rivers has miles of other trails for hiking and snowshoeing in the winter.
Baker – 9.1
Carver – 11.3
Cleary – 6 (2.8 lighted)
Crow-Hassan – 2.6
Eagle Lake – 3.6,
Elm Creek – 11.4 (3.4 lighted, 1.8 snowmaking)
French – 5.2 (2.9 lighted)
Glen Lake – 1.5
Hyland – 9.5 (5.3 lighted, 3.3 snowmaking)
Lake Rebecca –15.6
Murphy-Hanrehan – 9
What to Wear Cross Country Skiing
I quickly learned that less is more. I bundled up WAY to much. Rookie mistake. I observed several people at Theodore Wirth and this is what I need: Base Layer, Mid layer and Jacket or vest. For pants a soft shell is best. Women mostly had tights on. This is the biggest difference from downhill skiing. I also wished I had worn a light weight hat. Popular brands are Swix and Craft. Here are some ideas for you (These are affiliated links, which means I do get a small commission). I always recommend for you to shop local first!
Common Skiing Mid Layers are made of Fleeces, Merino Wool Sweaters, Vests, Technical Tees, Turtle Necks, Lightweight Polyester Sweatshirts
WHAT TO WEAR FOR APRES SKI
