Quiet Time

Cross-country skiing gets the short end of the ski pole in these parts, and that's probably because it's a much more subtle rush than downhill — not to mention maybe more work. But as Holly Johnson of the Colorado Cross Country Ski Association notes, it's great exercise and brings with...

By Susan Froyd

December 17, 2009

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Cross-country skiing gets the short end of the ski pole in these parts, and that's probably because it's a much more subtle rush than downhill — not to mention maybe more work. But as Holly Johnson of the Colorado Cross Country Ski Association notes, it's great exercise and brings with it a sense of peace in nature that's hard to find on crowded slopes at the resorts. And snowshoeing? "If you know how to walk, you know how to snowshoe," Johnson maintains. All you have to do is strap 'em on and go for a hike.

The Colorado Cross Country and Snowshoe Season Kickoff makes it a little bit easier to try today and tomorrow, at any of more than ten Colorado Nordic centers that are participating in the CCCSA's $10-off coupon promotion. The Nordic Bucks can be applied toward trail passes, equipment rentals, lessons or lodging. "We want to remind people about the environmental and pocketbook-friendly aspects of cross-country skiing, and to take advantage of family-friendly winter sports without having to take out a second mortgage on their houses," Johnson says. Good thinking!

Go to www.coloradocrosscountry.com to download your Nordic Bucks and get a list of places to redeem them; each is good for one discount per person, per day.
Sat., Dec. 19; Sun., Dec. 20, 2009

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Susan Froyd started writing for Westword as the "Thrills" editor in 1992 and never quite left the fold. These days she still freelances for the paper in addition to walking her dogs, enjoying cheap ethnic food and reading voraciously. Sometimes she writes poetry.

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