Soon enough I will be hiking on dirt instead of snow. But since that is coming quickly, I decided to try something I have NEVER even thought about doing before...cross country skiing. I haven't been snowboarding since I was 14 and here I am 14 years later finding myself on a pair of skis. I was actually able to wrangle in Chris on this one. He has been avoiding hiking in the snow, but this he could get on board with...if we had been snowboarding that would have been the perfect pun.
We took advantage of our REI membership and rented a pair of cross country skis and boots for $15 for the day. You can't beat that kind of deal. Since we have never been before we opted for Mountain Dell Golf Course up Parley's Canyon. The Utah Nordic Alliance creates groomed trails. Which for me was a dream, because starting out we both fell right off the bat. It's hilarious how hard it is to get back up on a pair of skis. I am used to boarding with both of my feet connected or I can take a foot out and balance myself.
Thankfully we both got the hang of it and before we knew it we were on our second loop of the trail. Something I need to get better at is going downhill and not being terrified. But for the first time, I was proud of myself and will for sure go again! I might even get myself a pair if I can find a good deal.
Oh and one last thing...this is an AMAZING workout. It was so similar to an elliptical workout but you get to enjoy a beautiful mountain view, and we all know you can't beat that.
What You Want to Know
Take Me There!
Mountain Dell Golf Course is turned into a cross-country skiing paradise by the Utah Nordic Alliance. Check their website for latest conditions and more details, they are awesome about keeping it up to date. To get there head up Parley's Canyon on I-80 and take exit 134 and turn left, than turn right after the overpass and head east again until you see a parking lot. This is where you can park and access the course.
How long is the course?
We did Mitten Loop & Lollipop Loop a few times, being inexperienced the first lap around the loop gets you warmed up and than you are ready to go again now that you have the hang of it. These loops combined are about 1.5 miles. Mitten Loop is rated as easy and Lollipop Loop is rated as Intermediate. There are maps at the park and signage that make it very easy to navigate the courses.
What Do I Wear?!
Compared to everyone else we were way overdressed. It is a great cardio workout so your blood will be flowing and warm you up pretty quickly so most people don't wear heavy clothing. We knew that we would be falling quite a bit and wore snow pants to keep ourselves dry. Even though I was sweating a bit, I don't regret that decision! For the top layer I wore a t-shirt and my Nano Patagonia jacket and a hat to keep my ears warm. I love the Nano because it keeps you nice and toasty but is not bulky or heavy and allows for lots of movement. They are pricy, but you can usually find one on sale at the end of the season, which is when I bought mine.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not allowed at Mountain Dell Golf Course. But if you are confident in your skills you can go up Millcreek Canyon with them and XC ski.
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