Five of our favorite places to practice the art of skate-skiing.
1. Giants Ridge
Biwabik, Minnesota
A few hours north of the Twin Cities, Giants Ridge (above) offers a luxury lodge, restaurant, and spa, as well as more than 37 miles of groomed trails through Superior National Forest. Roller-coaster hills, gradual climbs, plenty of vistas, and nearly two miles of lighted trails make for plenty to explore. [giantsridge.com]
Trail fee: $12
2. Craftsbury Outdoor Center
Craftsbury Common, Vermont
The rolling, meandering trails of Craftsbury wind through woods and gentle meadows,
providing the kind of bucolic experience you’d expect from Vermont. [craftsbury.com]
Trail fee: $10
3. Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Tabernash, Colorado
Roughly 5,000 acres of raw Colorado showcase huge views of the Continental Divide and
more than 62 miles of perfectly groomed trails. The resort has gone green as well, featuring geothermal power, recycled lumber, and other eco-upgrades. [devilsthumbranch.com]
Trail fee: $18
4. Royal Gorge
Soda Springs, California
Perched in the Sierras, Royal Gorge’s 180-plus miles of tracks earn it the title of North America’s largest cross-country ski resort. But don’t be overwhelmed: The resort helps skiers navigate the trail network with lifts and lets you take breathers at warming huts and restaurants scattered throughout. [royalgorge.com]
Trail fee: $29
5. Galena Lodge
Ketchum, Idaho
Just 30 minutes up the road from Sun Valley, Galena features 31 miles of tracks that connect to the region’s even larger network of trails. You can’t stay overnight at the lodge, but you can reserve a yurt. And the restaurant’s hearty lunches are great for fueling up during a long day of skiing. [galenalodge.com]
Trail fee: $15
Print this article
Leave a Reply