Cross-Country Skiing - by Jean Wolter

Coming up to the Winter Park/Fraser Valley this weekend? If you enjoy serenity, snow and want to escape the crowds. Try cross-country skiing this weekend. Saturday, March 15^th is a full moon. Its a wonderful time to put on your snow clothes, fill your bota bag with Schapps, and rent a pair of cross country skis. The moonlight will light up the trails and make you one with nature. Cross country skiing is great exercise working your legs and arms but it also is fun to be out in nature in the beautiful mountains. Who knows you may even see a moose. Where to go? The Winter Park Area has some of the best places to cross country ski in Colorado. There is the famedDevils Thumb Ranch in Tabernash and they rent skis too. They have over 100 km of groomed trails. You can even try skijourning with your dog. Dont worry, they offer lessons if you have never tried it. After your full moon cross country ski you can grab a glass of wine and relax in front of the huge fireplace at Hecks Tavern. They have a great menu if you have worked up an appetite. YMCA Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby offers cross country ski lessons and rentals with groomed trails. They have short trails perfect for the beginner or advanced longer, steep trails to really give you a work out if you enjoy climbing uphill. You can bring your best friend as they have dog friendly trails. Sometimes you dont have to pay a fee to enjoy nature. Full Moon weekends in the winter Pole Creek Golf Course invites everyone to put on cross country skis or snowshoes and enjoy an evening out on the golf course trails. They even have a bonfire and hot chocolate at Bistro 28 to warm you up. This event happens on Saturday, March 15^th from 9-5pm. Bistro 28 offers food and drinks after your ski. If you need rentals Ice Box Mountain Sports in Fraser rents snowshoes and cross-country skis. If I havent tempted you to enjoy an evening out in the snow and moonlight this weekend then have fun playing Bingo at Carvers at 6:30pm on Saturday, March 15^th. This event is family friendly and the first game begins at 7:00pm. Carvers will be serving light snacks and the bar is open. Hope to see you this weekend enjoying the peaceful trails in the Winter Park/Fraser Valley Area.