Cross country skiing offers a quieter alternative to the resort experience—a chance to move through winter landscapes at your own pace while getting a genuine workout. Park City maintains extensive Nordic terrain that ranges from groomed track systems to backcountry routes through pristine mountain scenery.
Where to Go
White Pine Touring operates the Park City Nordic Center, maintaining over 20 kilometers of groomed trails at the Park City Golf Course. The terrain suits all ability levels, from flat meadow loops for beginners to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
Soldier Hollow, site of the 2002 Olympic Nordic events, is approximately 30 minutes from Park City. The ability to make snow combined with groomed trails ensures both first timers and expert skaters will have an enjoyable experience.
For those seeking backcountry experience, the Uinta Mountains provide extensive ungroomed terrain accessible from Mirror Lake Highway when conditions allow.
Local Insight: Round Valley offers free Nordic access on ungroomed but well-packed trails. It's how many locals first tried the sport—accessible terrain within minutes of Main Street, no trail pass required.
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Getting Started
Cross country skiing has a shorter learning curve than many winter sports, making it a manageable activity for most visitors. Rental equipment is available at White Pine Touring and other local shops, with modest gear needs.
Lessons accelerate the process significantly. Proper technique transforms Nordic skiing from exhausting shuffling to efficient, enjoyable movement.
What to ask about: Trail pass requirements and current grooming conditions before heading out.
What to Expect
Nordic skiing provides cardiovascular exercise that rivals any gym workout while immersing you in winter quiet. The pace allows conversation, making it excellent for couples and families seeking shared outdoor time.
Dress in layers appropriate for aerobic activity in cold weather—you'll warm up quickly once moving. See our winter packing guide for layering recommendations.
If cross country skiing appeals to you, consider snowshoeing as another accessible way to explore winter trails without the learning curve of downhill skiing.
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Local Insight: Cross-country skiing is low impact, low speed and, therefore, safer than many of its winter sport counterparts.
