Why We’re Here: Reflections of nature and purpose.
The seasons of Northern Michigan are captivating. In spring, muddy brown gives way to glistening green, and the return of regular sunshine brings tears to the eyes. In summer, we swim in crystal lakes and paddle winding rivers, grow bountiful food, and take respite in vibrant green forests bustling with wildlife. In fall, the leaves of the maples, birches, aspens and oaks shock us […]
Looking back on 50 years: An interview with the founders, Bob and Lynne Frye
Stu: What was the inspiration or catalyst for starting Cross Country Ski Headquarters in 1974? Bob: I had gone out to Jackson Hole Wyoming to go downhill skiing and it was so cold, the hydraulic fluid in the chairlift froze, so they closed the lift. So my friend Archie Macgillivray and I found, in the corner of a downhill ski shop, some cross-country skis […]
World Cup Recap: A Weekend at the races in Minneapolis
For most of us, the only experiences we have with FIS World Cup races are what we see on our screens of inspirational athletes skiing at faraway European venues. However, once twenty years or so, the FIS World Cup comes to America. For many of us, the idea of attending a World Cup race is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity – and that is how we […]
Saturday, Jan 25th – 10:30am: Free Beginner Ski Lesson
Learn how to cross country ski at our FREE beginner ski lesson! You will learn the basics of traditional (classic style) XC ski technique, plus hill climbing, descending, and turning. You will even learn how to get up when you fall down! Free lessons are limited to 25 people. Ski rentals are available at the rental desk on a first-come, first-served basis (we do […]
Saturday, Jan 25th: Bavarian Ski Festival
Dust off your Lederhosen and join us for a taste of the Alps! Enjoy skiing on the HQ trail system, then test your strength at Masskrugstemmen, with stein-holding contests for men and women starting at 2:00pm. Make a team of three, and ski in unison atop our giant pair of “Team Skis” in the Team Ski Time Trials, beginning at 3:00pm. Of course, we […]
Sunday, Jan 26th – 11:00am: Learn to Skate Ski Clinic
Have you been thinking about trying skate skiing, but aren’t sure how to get into it? Join us for our Learn How to Skate Ski Clinic, which includes a Facilities Pass, and 90 minute group skate ski lesson. Cost for the clinic is $20. Ski rentals are available at our normal rates. The lesson starts at 11:00am, and skiers are welcome to pick up […]
Sunday, Jan 26th – 2:00-4:00pm: Eric McDonald Live
Enjoy some great tunes by local guitar player, singer and songwriter, Eric McDonald! Bring your friends and delight in some food and drink from the Stone Turtle Cafe.
Friday, January 31st- 6:00pm: Winter Feast
Indulge in a gourmet feast in the rustic Stone Turtle Day lodge at Cross Country Ski Headquarters. This four-course meal will feature wine pairings with creative and exquisite dishes to satiate your soul on a cold winter’s night. Bring a date or some friends and enjoy this delicious meal in a beautiful setting, complete with a crackling fire. Fine wine, craft cocktails and beer […]
Saturday, Feb 1st – 10:30am: Free Beginner Ski Lesson
Learn how to cross country ski at our FREE beginner ski lesson! You will learn the basics of traditional (classic style) XC ski technique, plus hill climbing, descending, and turning. You will even learn how to get up when you fall down! Free lessons are limited to 25 people. Ski rentals are available at the rental desk on a first-come, first-served basis (we do […]
Sunday, Feb 2nd – 12:00pm and 2:00pm: Paella on the Sun Deck
A favorite XC Ski HQ tradition, Paella on the Sun Deck celebrates a world-renowned, Spanish rice dish, and offers skiers a hearty, flavorful (and entertaining!) feast. Prepared in a massive cast iron pan over an outdoor fire pit, this lunch comes from an authentic Spanish recipe from Paella master Ayo from Nerja, Spain, and is served piping hot with Saffron-spiced chicken, shrimp, mussels and […]
Sunday, Feb 2nd – 2:00pm: Live Music with Kat and Wil
Jam to the fun sounds of this great local duo. Warm up by the fire in the Stone Turtle Day Lodge and Cafe with a beverage and a snack, and let the music move you!
Saturday, Feb 8th – 10:30am: Free Beginner Ski Lesson
Learn how to cross country ski at our FREE beginner ski lesson! You will learn the basics of traditional (classic style) XC ski technique, plus hill climbing, descending, and turning. You will even learn how to get up when you fall down! Free lessons are limited to 25 people. Ski rentals are available at the rental desk on a first-come, first-served basis (we do […]
