Smiley Face Cross Country Ski Headquarters Smile

Cross Country Ski Report – Wednesday, Jan 25th

It snowed more yesterday, and we are getting more snow this morning. The Trappers Cabin, Manitou, and upper section of Rolling Hills have almost full snow coverage, and are very skiable. Manitou has decent skied-in classic tracks as well. With the snow we get today, and with more man-made snow spread on the trails in the next couple of days, we are hoping to be able to snow comb a few of the trails in time for the weekend. You can use “A” skis on the above mentioned trails (you’ll run over scant bits of grass, but no rocks). The rest of the trails are open and in decent condition. The Pond Loop and practice area have a strong base of man-made snow and are freshly groomed as of this morning. Conditions there are excellent for skating and classic skiing, demos, lessons, and practice. The Stone Turtle Cafe is serving up lunch today!

Shop the Mid-Winter Sale, with 30% off all Marmot clothing, plus other steals and deals on fleece, sweaters, and insulated jackets!

Upcoming Events:

Saturday, Jan 28th – 10:30am: Free Beginner Ski Lesson
Learn how to cross country ski at our FREE beginner ski lesson! You will learn the basics of traditional (classic style) XC ski technique, plus hill climbing, descending, and turning. You will even learn how to get up when you fall down! Free lessons are limited to 25 people. Ski rentals are available at the rental desk on a first-come, first-served basis (we do not take rental reservations). The free lesson lasts 1 hour.

Sunday, January 29th: Paella on the Sun Deck
A favorite XC Ski HQ tradition, Paella on the Sun Deck celebrates a world-renowned, Spanish rice dish, and offers skiers a hearty, flavorful (and entertaining!) feast. Prepared in a massive cast iron pan over an outdoor fire pit, this lunch comes from an authentic Spanish recipe from Paella master Ayo from Nerja, Spain, and is served piping hot with Saffron-spiced chicken, shrimp, mussels and vegetables, this dish will be presented in two seatings: 1:00pm and 3:00pm.

Thursday, February 2nd: Winter Feast Gourmet Dinner
Indulge in a gourmet feast in the rustic Stone Turtle Day lodge at Cross Country Ski Headquarters. This five-course meal will feature creative and exquisite dishes to satiate your soul on a cold winter’s night! Bring a date or some friends and enjoy this delicious meal in a beautiful setting, complete with a crackling fire. Fine wine, craft cocktails and beer are also available. Reservations required: call 800-832-2663. *Please note that due to table size, small parties may be seated with other guests. Click here to reserve your spot!

Month of January: Discover Michigan Cross Country Ski Month!

Cross Country Ski Headquarters has teamed up with Michigan Ski Industries Association to offer a very affordable introduction to the sport of cross country skiing! Discover Michigan is designed to introduce this healthy, fun, outdoor activity to anyone with an interest in outdoor winter recreation. The program includes a beginner group ski lesson, full day ski equipment rental, and XC SKI HQ facilities pass for the day. The price is $40. Call 800-832-2663 to book your Discover Michigan Day!
All the best,

-Mariah, Stu, Bob, Lynne, George, Erin, Missy, Gill, Drew, Alex, Mitch, Krista, Will, Josie, Branden and the crew