How to Cross Country Ski: From Beginner to Pro

From beginner to seasoned racer, this site is designed to provide guidance and clarity on every aspect of cross country skiing. Explore our guides to learn everything from trails to ski near you, to how to dress and how to select skis, boots, and poles.

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A snowy trail through a coniferous forest with tall evergreen trees under a clear blue sky and snow-covered mountains in the background.
  • Outdoor Spaces icon

    Where to Ski

    Collection of guides to ski locations near major metropolitan cities in the United States.

    Let's Explore
  • Cross country skis

    Equipment to Use

    Skis are confusing. Bindings make no sense. Poles are unwieldy. Make sense of it all with these guides.

    Make it make sense
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    How to Dress

    Not too hot, not too cold, dressing for cross country skiing is hard. These guides make it easier.

    Get Dressed
A person cross-country skiing on a snowy landscape near a forest with mountains in the background during dusk or dawn.

Want specific recommendations?

I’m here to help. I’ve quite literally done it all when it comes to cross country skiing as a former ski instructor, coach, racer, retailer, sales person, customer service rep, reporter, non-profit intern, aide station volunteer, and model.

Hot Takes for Confident Skiing

  • Follow the Leader

    Skiing behind someone better than you is the easiest way to accelerate the learning curve.

  • Skiing is a Controlled Fall

    Commit to a ski and linger there to build your confidence and ability. Those hips and body falling down the trail creates the momentum that helps you move forward.

  • Theres No Alternative to Time on Snow

    When you’re first learning, time on snow is the central factor in building ability and confidence. Rollerskiing is worthless when you’re still learning.