September 3 – November 2, 2012
Open by Appointment, or When Yellow Sign is Out!
As we ramp up for ski season, don’t hesitate to come shopping! Stop in if you see the yellow sign out by the road, or call 1-800-832-2663 and we’ll meet you at the shop. Click here or hit the “SHOP” button on the menu bar to shop online for ski packages and clothing. We have amazing deals running on all of your favorite XC and winter clothing brands, so be sure to stop by. Trails are open and free to the public for walking, running, biking and pole walking. Stop in to demo some Nordic Ski Walking poles for free! Yoga Hikes with Mariah will take place every Friday morning at 9am in the XC Ski HQ parking lot.
November 3, Saturday – November 21, Wednesday
Pre-season Sale, plus Season Opening Cider Press Party November 3rd & 4th
Cross Country Ski Headquarters is open daily starting Saturday, November 3rd, with hours from 9am-6pm Fri-Sat, 9am-5pm Sun, and 10am-5:30pm Mon-Thurs. We’re welcoming in the 2012-13 season with the largest selection of ski equipment and winter clothing that you’ll see all year… and almost ALL of it is 20-50% off!
Come see us and find fantastic savings on closeouts from Fischer, Rossignol, Salomon, Atomic, Alpina, and Swix. All these items are at least 40% OFF!
Get your wardrobe ready for winter weather without breaking the bank! Stop in and save up to 50% on last season’s clothing from The North Face, Columbia, Under Armour, Brooks, and more. Also check out our huge selection of this year’s clothing from all your favorite brands, including Patagonia!
We’ll also host a cider press party throughout the weekend! Make homemade cider with our vintage cider press and eat fresh baked goodies on the sun deck all Saturday and Sunday. The ski trails are open and free to the public! Try out the all-terrain C.A.T. Skis, the newest way to XC ski without snow. Or, try a pair of the ever-popular Nordic Ski Walking Poles and take your trail walking to a new level! Free demos until the snow flies.
November 23, Friday – November 26, Monday
Thanksgiving Weekend Sale, Bean Bomb Bash, and Fashion Show!
Skip the Black Friday headache and head over to XC Ski HQ for a whole weekend of sales and fun! Demo our Nordic Walking poles or C.A.T. skis for free, munch on some of Bob’s famous Bean Bomb, check out the latest styles from our Ski HQ crew during the ongoing fashion show, and cash in on some major deals on all of your favorite brands.
Come see us Thanksgiving weekend, and find fantastic selection and prices on new cross country skis, boots, poles, and ski packages, plus cross country ski apparel and winter wear for 2012-13 season. Plus 40-50% off 2012-13 Rep samples and closeouts from Fischer, Rossignol, Salomon, Alpina, Yoko and Swix!
Also, don’t miss out on last season’s clearance items, including X-C jackets & pants, winter boots, base layer, downhill jackets and pants, lots of kids winter apparel, plus carry-over skis and boots! Half off on many items!
And for those over-achievers who like getting a head start on Christmas shopping, please remember: There is no better Christmas present than a new ski package, followed closely by a Patagonia down sweater or Columbia Omni-heat base layer. Happy Thanksgiving!
December 1, 2012 – Saturday
Rolling Hills, Trapper’s Cabin, Mackinac Cut and Wild Turkey Trails Open
If we have received enough snow by December 1st, we will groom Rolling Hills, Trapper’s Cabin, Mackinac Cut and Wild Turkey Trails. All 19 kilometers of trail will be groomed by December 3rd snow permitting!
Take advantage of this great opportunity to demo some great skis that are still on sale at Pre-Season package prices!
December 1, 2012 – March 16, 2013
Headlight Night Skiing for $5
Experience the magic of winter at night with the help of an LED headlamp! For only $5 per night, rent a Princeton Tech headlamp and enjoy the trails in a new way. Please pick up headlamps during store hours – before 6pm Friday and Saturday and before 5pm Sunday through Thursday – and return them between 10AM and noon the following day.
December 8th, 2012 – Saturday
Wax Clinic & Team Dinner
Cross Country Ski Headquarters will host our annual wax clinic on Saturday, December 8th at 4PM. This clinic will be highly informative and of interest to racers and recreational skiers alike. There is no charge for this clinic.
The XC SKI HQ Team dinner follows the wax clinic, beginning at 6pm. Come join the 2004, ’07, ’08, ;09 and’10 Michigan Cup Champions (also the ’10 and ’11 Brumbaugh Cup Champions) in our annual kick-off potluck dinner, where we’ll introduce new team members, review last year’s performance, and strategize on how to bring home the MI Cup in 2013. Other topics will include technique, food and liquids for race day, race gear, and winter team training dates.
This event always ends up being a lot of fun, so even if you think you might only do one race this season, come and enjoy this annual gathering of the most fun-loving skiers out there!
Don’t forget, we are very welcoming to new team members! Our team spans a wide range of age and ability, and members are always willing to help out fellow skiers. To find out more, join us on Team Night, or call or email Devan Thielfoldt at 248-740-8825 or dthielfoldt@omniurce.com, or Bob Frye at bob@crosscountryski.com.
December 8, 2012 – Saturday 4pm
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
December 15, 2012 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
December 17, 2012 – March 17, 2013
Bring a Friend Skiing and Win!
Bring a Friend Skiing and Win a Ski Vacation! This winter, if you bring a friend cross country skiing at Cross Country Ski Headquarters, you and your friend can enter to win a trip for two to one of three ski destinations: Park City (Utah), Sun Valley (Idaho), or Smugglers’ Notch (Vermont). All destinations include 5 nights stay in premier lodging, 4 days’ rental equipment, plus trail passes. The Rockies’ trips include airfare from any major airport. You will also be awarded a FREE cup of hot cocoa or Starbucks coffee at XC Ski HQ! Here’s how it works: Bring a friend or family member who is new to cross country skiing to XC Ski HQ. Have him or her take a ski lesson from one of our instructors (this includes our FREE one-hour group lesson every Saturday at 4pm, or our “basics-only” lesson included with any equipment rental, or a private lesson). Just mention “Bring a Friend” and we will give you a coupon for two free hot cocoas or coffees, and a lesson receipt. Then just go www.bringafriend.org and enter to win your destination ski vacation for two (you will need the lesson receipt). Bring as many friends as you can, because there is no entry limit! Prizes will be awarded March 17, 2013. Vacations will be for the 2013-2014 ski season. Contestants must be at least 21 years old.
December 22, 2012 – Saturday 9:00AM-6:00PM
Yoga Ski Retreat
Kick off your holidays with a blissful day of yoga, skiing, and food! The day begins at 9am with a mild yet invigorating Gentle Yoga class, taught by yoga and ski instructor Mariah Frye at the Gerrish Township Fire Hall. Then it’s off to Cross Country Ski Headquarters for a full day ski rental, trail pass, and hour long group ski lesson with a friendly, knowledgeable instructor. Top it all off with a delicious lunch at the Stone Turtle Day Lodge café, and enjoy the rest of the day skiing or relaxing by the huge fieldstone fireplace! Both lessons are taught in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment, and all are invited to participate. That includes newbies to yoga, skiing or both! Over a $60 value for only $35 if you pre-register! $45 if you register the day-of. Ask questions or pre-register by emailing mariah@crosscountryski.com, or sign up online at stoneturtleyoga.com.
December 22, 2012 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some feedback on your technique? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
December 23, 2012 – Sunday 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm
Ski Clinic with Eli Brown and Toko Wax Clinic with Nick Baic
The 2011-12 Michigan Cup Men’s Champion and former University of Utah cross country ski coach Eli Brown will run a clinic for both classic and skate skiing at the XC Ski HQ. Eli is an excellent coach for both the skate and classic techniques, regardless of your ability level. He has a keen eye for form and a lot of tips and tricks to get you skiing faster and more efficiently. Skate clinic ($25) will be 10am to 12noon. Classic clinic ($25) will be 1pm to 3pm. If you want to attend both clinics it will only be $40. Maximum 25 skiers for both morning and afternoon, so sign up quickly by calling 800-832-2663 or emailing mariah@crosscountryski.com.
Our annual Toko Wax Clinic, presented by Toko guru and coach for the Great Lakes Junior Olympics team, Nick Baic, will start at 4pm. Nick will talk you through the latest and greatest from Toko, as well as review time tested wax techniques in an understandable and informative way. Come get any and all wax questions answered by one of the best sources of XC knowledge out there. There is no charge for this wax clinic.
Eli Brown Skate Ski Clinic – St. Patty’s Day 2012
Tuesday, Christmas Day December 25, 2012
Merry Christmas!
Cross Country Ski Headquarters Store is closed. Parking lot and trails are open during daylight hours, on the house.
December 28, 2012 – Friday 6PM-8:30PM
Full Moon Night Skiing!
Experience the magic of winter in a whole new light! Every full moon during the ski season, we will light the Trapper’s Cabin trail with torches, creating a truly unique and memorable nighttime experience. We will also have a bonfire and serve hot chocolate at Trapper’s Cabin from 6-8:30PM. Skiers who need to rent skis must do so before 6PM, as the store will close at 6PM per our usual schedule. Join us for an evening you’ll never forget!
January 1 – 31, 2013
McDonald’s Discover Michigan Skiing Month
Cross Country Ski Headquarters has teamed up with Michigan’s McDonalds restaurants to offer an exciting and very affordable introduction to the sport of Cross Country Skiing. The program is designed to introduce a healthy outdoor winter activity to anyone with an interest in outdoor winter recreation.
The program includes a 1-hour group lesson, ski equipment rental, and a XC SKI HQ facilities pass for the day. The price for this Discover Michigan Skiing program is $20 for adults and children 6 years old and older. The lesson covers basic maneuvering on skis, including classic technique, turning, controlling speed going downhill, and getting up from a fall. At the end of the program, participants receive a $20-off coupon valid at participating Michigan Ski Industries Association ski shops.
The Discover Michigan group lesson usually starts at 10am on Saturdays throughout the month of January, but if you have a group of 4 or more you may schedule a “private” group lesson most any day or time. In either case, sign in at the rental desk at least 15 minutes prior to the lesson time to get fitted for ski equipment. Please pre-register by calling 800.832.2663.
January 5, 2013 – Saturday 4 PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
January 12, 2013 – Saturday 10AM to 3:30PM
Pure Michigan Winter Trails Day
Entering its 18th year, the Pure Michigan Winter Trails Day offers children and adults who are NEW to snow-shoeing and cross country skiing, the chance to try both activities for FREE. Come join us and discover how fun winter fitness can be, and enjoy the social aspects that accompany these easy-to-learn winter sports.
Check-in is at 10am. Please make sure to pre-register, and remember, this program is aimed at XC ski and snowshoe NOVICES only. Check-in is followed by free outfitting in snowshoes, boots, skis and poles.
10:30: X-C Ski & Snowshoe clinic. Learn how to get the skis and snowshoes on, how to hold the poles, and how to start cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Also learn the important skills of how to fall down and how to get up!
11:10: Go on a tour to Trappers Cabin for Hot Dogs, bonfire and Hot Cocoa, all on the house. After lunch at the Cabin, skiers and snowshoers will have the choice of exploring more trails, or be guided back to Cross Country Ski Headquarters.
3 PM (or earlier): Skiers return from their tours and return snowshoes, boots, skis & poles. They are invited to relax in front of the Fireplace in the Stone Turtle Day Lodge.
We ran completely out of equipment last year, so we insist upon pre-registering! We have a limited number of skis and snowshoes. If we are fully booked we will reschedule you to a Saturday later into January. Please pre register by emailing your name, address, age, shoe size, and choice of X-C Skiing or Snowshoeing to: skibones@aol.com We will respond to your registration and we will confirm your reservation for participation and equipment (based on availability of equipment) with a return email confirmation.
January 12, 2013 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
January 12 & 13, 2013 – Saturday & Sunday – Noon to 3pm
Get your Fill at the Grill – Fire on the Mountain!
Grill Cook Garrett Gabalis will make a special appearance on the Stone Turtle Day Lodge Sun Deck to Fire Grill your choice of Seafood, Lean Beef Burgers or Black Bean Veggie Burgers. Choose your entree and Garrett will grill it to perfection. If you dare, ask that your entree be cooked “Fire on the Mountain Style” – Grilled with sizzling hot sauce and topped with Jalapenos, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion and a creamy Buffalo Blue Cheese dressing.
January 14 – 18, 2013 – Monday through Friday
Silver Streak Week
This week, Cross Country Ski Headquarters would like to welcome all “seasoned” outdoors people, age 60 and older, to a complimentary X-C SKI HQ Facilities Pass, plus a coffee or hot cocoa on the house. They are also welcome to demo any of the latest and greatest 2012-13 skis, boots or snowshoes at no charge.
January 19, 2013 – Saturday
Cote Dame Marie Ski Loppet at Hanson Hills
This exciting Nordic Skiing Adventure, sponsored by XC Ski HQ, will take you through the scenic hardwood trails of Hanson Hills Recreation Area, located in Grayling, Michigan. There is a course option for every kind of skier, including 8km Citizens Races (classic and freestyle) for those new to racing, an 8km Juniors race, plus a 15km and 30km Michigan Cup race. This is a really fun event for racers and non-racers alike, and it is followed by an awards ceremony and lunch at the Ramada Inn in Grayling. Visit www.graylingnordic.com for more information.
January 19, 2013 – Saturday Noon to 3PM
Fire Grilled Pizzas on the Sun Deck!
Build your own gourmet flatbread pizza and have it grilled to perfection on our wood-fired Sun Deck barbeque pit! Choose from a variety of toppings to create your own pizza masterpiece, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of delicious fire cooked crust, savory sauce, bubbling cheese and fresh toppings. Mama Mia!
January 19, 2013 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
January 20, 2013 – Sunday Noon to 3PM
Paella Fiesta
A huge hit with our skiers last season, Paella, a hearty, deliciously savory Spanish rice dish, will be served from Noon to 3pm this Sunday. After learning the ropes from Paella chef master Ayo of Nerja, Spain, Bob and Lynne are excited to share this traditional dish to hungry skiers at Cross Country Ski Headquarters. Prepared in a massive cast iron pan over open flame, this lunch is almost as enjoyable to watch being cooked as it is to eat! Served piping hot with vegetables and slow-cooked, Saffron infused seafood and chicken. Buen Provecho!
January 26 & 27, 2013 – Saturday & Sunday, Noon to 3PM
Get your Fill at the Grill – Fire on the Mountain!
Grill Cook Garrett Gabalis will make a special appearance on the Stone Turtle Day Lodge Sun Deck to Fire Grill your choice of Seafood, Lean Beef Burgers or Black Bean Veggie Burgers. Choose your entree and Garrett will grill it to perfection. If you dare, ask that your entree be cooked “Fire on the Mountain Style” – Grilled with sizzling hot sauce and topped with Jalapenos, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion and a creamy Buffalo Blue Cheese dressing.
January 26, 2013 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
January 26, 2013 – Saturday 6PM-8:30PM
Full Moon Night Skiing!
Experience the magic of winter in a whole new light! Every full moon during the ski season, we will light the Trapper’s Cabin trail with torches, creating a truly unique and memorable nighttime experience. We will also have a bonfire and serve hot chocolate at Trapper’s Cabin from 6-8:30PM. Skiers who need to rent skis must do so before 6PM, as the store will close at 6PM per our usual schedule. Join us for an evening you’ll never forget!
February 2, 2013 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
February 2 & 3, 2013 – Saturday and Sunday, Noon – 3pm
Fire Grilled Pizzas on the Sun Deck!
Build your own gourmet flatbread pizza and have it grilled to perfection on our wood-fired Sun Deck barbeque pit! Choose from a variety of toppings to create your own pizza masterpiece, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of delicious fire cooked crust, savory sauce, bubbling cheese and fresh toppings. Mama Mia!
February 9 & 10, 2013 – Saturday and Sunday, Noon to 3PM
Bob’s Bean Bomb Nachos
What do you call beans that aren’t yours? Nacho Beans!! Bob’s Bean Bomb, a legendary, mouth-watering bean dip with a cult-like following, is making a special appearance this weekend in the form of Bean Bomb Nachos. Feast on layers of heavy tortilla chips loaded with Bob’s signature spicy Bean Bomb, melted sharp cheddar cheese, black olives, onions, tomatoes and sour cream. Need we say more?
February 9, 2013 – Saturday 4pm
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
February 16, 2013 Saturday Noon to 3PM
Jimmy Mac’s Favorite Panini Lunch Special
Enjoy Jimmy Mac Frye’s culinary triumph! Sliced grilled chicken breast, Canadian turkey bacon, chopped spinach, sliced tomato, jalapenos, provolone cheese and delicious pesto in a flatbread sandwich. Grilled to perfection for a perfect lunch.
February 16, 2013 – Saturday 4PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
February 17, 2013 – Sunday Noon to 3PM
Paella Fiesta
A huge hit with our skiers last season, Paella, a hearty, deliciously savory Spanish rice dish, will be served from Noon to 3pm this Sunday. After learning the ropes from Paella chef master Ayo of Nerja, Spain, Bob and Lynne are excited to share this traditional dish to hungry skiers at Cross Country Ski Headquarters. Prepared in a massive cast iron pan over open flame, this lunch is almost as enjoyable to watch being cooked as it is to eat! Served piping hot with vegetables and slow-cooked, Saffron infused seafood and chicken. Buen Provecho!
February 23, 2013 – Saturday Noon to 3PM
Famous Pulled-Pork Barbeque on the Sun Deck
Legend has it that the only barbequed pulled pork better than ours exists on the Combs Pig Farm in northern Las Vegas. Decide for yourself and come feast on what is surely some of the best barbeque East of the Mississippi River, while basking in the winter sun on our sun deck. Served on a warm sourdough roll with a big pickle spear and veggies. All for just $5!
February 23, 2013 – Saturday 4 PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
February 24, 2013 – Sunday 9AM
21st Annual Junior Muffin Pursuit Races – Classic/Freestyle
The longest standing Juniors race in Michigan, the Muffin Race will be held at Cross Country Ski Headquarters on Sunday, Feb 24th. The race is a Junior Girls & Boys 8km Pursuit race. Skiers will classic ski the first half of the race then ski freestyle the second half of the race. Registration begins at 9am on Sunday, and we will shoot for an 10:30am start. This is a Michigan Cup Junior Race. Medals will be awarded to the top 3 finishers in the girls and boys races.
After the 8km Senior Muffin Division Pursuit race, we will hold three Junior Muffin freestyle races: Ages 6 years and under, 7 to 9 and 10 to 12. All racers 12 and under will be awarded a medal!
There is a $10 entry fee for the Senior Racers (13 and older) and it includes a Pig Roast Lunch. There is no entry fee for the Junior Muffin Racers.
The Pig Roast is $5 for anyone else who might be hungry too. All racers and family members who partake in the Pig Roast will also receive a complimentary 1-day XC SKI HQ facilities pass.
February 25, 2013 – Monday 6pm-8:30pm
Full Moon Night Skiing!
Experience the magic of winter in a whole new light! Every full moon during the ski season, we will light the Trapper’s Cabin trail with torches, creating a truly unique and memorable nighttime experience. We will also have a bonfire and serve hot chocolate at Trapper’s Cabin from 6-8:30PM. Skiers who need to rent skis must do so before 6PM, as the store will close at 6PM per our usual schedule. Join us for an evening you’ll never forget!
March 2 , 2013, Saturday Noon to 3 PM
Fire Grilled Pizzas on the Sun Deck!
Build your own gourmet flatbread pizza and have it grilled to perfection on our wood-fired Sun Deck barbeque pit! Choose from a variety of toppings to create your own pizza masterpiece, and enjoy the satisfying flavors of delicious fire cooked crust, savory sauce, bubbling cheese and fresh toppings. Mama Mia!
March 2, 2013 – Saturday 4 PM
Learn to Ski for Free!
Never tried cross country skiing, but always wanted to? In the market for some technique feedback? Interested in learning how to use your poles more effectively or get more glide? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, a free ski lesson might just be the trick! Each Saturday at 4pm, from December 8th – March 2nd, learn the basics of Cross Country Classic Skiing or Skate Skiing at no charge (conditions permitting). This is a beginner class for adults and kids. Lesson will start at 4pm sharp, so if you need to rent skis, please sign in at the rental desk no later than 3:45pm. This class is free and lasts approximately 1 hour.
March 3, 2013, Sunday 2pm
Ribs and Blues
A well-celebrated tradition at Cross Country Ski Headquarters, Ribs and Blues brings together live music from local artists and our famous Sweet Baby Ray’s slow cooked barbequed ribs. Kick back to the tunes of some truly talented blues musicians while feasting on succulent ribs, scalloped potatoes, and cole slaw. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 8 and younger. Reservations will get first seating. Some adult patrons choose to bring their own beverages. Email skiboneslynne@aol.com to reserve.
March 10, 2013, Sunday 9:30am
Michigan Cup Relays at Cross Country Ski Headquarters
A Michigan Cup Relay Race with 3 skiers per team: 2 legs freestyle, one leg classic; approximately 8km per leg for freestyle and classic. Registration starts at 9:30am. Relays start at 11am. Entry Fee is $20 per racer. All entrees score Team Points. If you do not have a team but would still like to ski, we will try to find a team for you. Registration fee includes refreshments (some teams bring special refreshments), Pulled Pork sandwiches served on a sourdough bun, grilled hot dogs, and fresh baked chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies for dessert. Each racer will also receive an official 2013 Michigan Cup Pint Glass!
March 27, 2013 – Wednesday 6-8:30 PM
Torch-less Full Moon Night Skiing!
Due to sunset occurring at 8:00pm, and Civil Twilight ending at 8:30pm, there will be no need to light torches for this Full Moon Night Ski. The trails will still be open to public use, free of charge. Trappers Cabin will be stocked with firewood for any skiers who would like to build a bonfire. If you need to rent skis, please do so by 5:30pm.