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Cross Country Ski Headquarters (XC Ski HQ) is a specialty cross country ski shop and premier Nordic skiing destination in Michigan and throughout the country. Named #2 Cross Country Ski Destination in North America by USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Awards in 2018, XC SKi HQ is most known for pristine ski trails, a warm and welcoming lodge atmosphere, and an outstanding selection of cross country ski equipment and clothing with top notch service.

So much more than just skiing

If you’re looking for an authentic, unforgettable winter experience, you will find it at Cross Country Ski Headquarters. Make your way to Higgins Lake, Michigan, and immerse in the natural beauty of this “Nordic Skiing Mecca” (named by Outside Magazine Online). Ski your heart out on 18 kilometers of expertly groomed ski trails for both classic and skating technique, or snowshoe on the Aspen Wilderness snowshoe trail. Relax next to the roaring fireplace in the Stone Turtle Day Lodge, where a menu of delicious, consciously-crafted food and drink awaits. Rent modern ski and snowshoe equipment from friendly staff, who will teach you the basics of cross country skiing at no charge. You can also book a private lesson with a PSIA-certified ski instructor, or join the weekly free beginner ski lesson on Saturdays at 10:30am. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just getting started, XC Ski HQ feels like home.

Join us for events every weekend throughout the winter, including ski clinics, live music, barbecues, Paella, and more. Close enough for a day trip for most of Michigan, you can also stay the night with one of our lodging partners. Start planning your trip to Cross Country Ski Headquarters, where you’ll find so much more than just skiing.

About Us

In the winter of 1974, Bob and Lynne Frye opened a small cross country ski rental operation out of the shed of a Higgins Lake snowmobile repair shop. Many years and multiple expansions later, owners Mariah Frye Colie (Bob and Lynne’s daughter) and Stu Colie (son-in-law) are committed to the same goal with which they started: get people outside and having fun in the wintertime.

Your Best Source for Everything Cross Country

From humble beginnings, XC Ski HQ now welcomes skiers from around the world to experience the magic of northern Michigan Nordic skiing. Visitors are charmed by the personal care they receive from a staff of dedicated, outdoor enthusiasts, and inspired by the beautiful natural surroundings and full-suite amenities. Skiers and soon-to-be-skiers can trust in decades of expertise with ski equipment and fitting, how to dress for cross country skiing, ski technique (skating, classic, racing, back country, snow shoeing), other places to XC ski, and more.

Customers return year after year not just for great customer service, but for fiercely competitive prices on Nordic ski equipment and clothing, including specialty “ski package” discounts. They feel good about shopping one of the largest selections of Nordic ski equipment and cross country ski clothing in North America. During the winter, free equipment demos are available seven days a week, allowing customers to try before they buy.

Years of outfitting experience. Vast selection. Excellent prices. Plus, a ski area you won’t want to leave. For all things Nordic, Cross Country Ski Headquarters is your best source.

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