Winter has come, snow has fallen, and it’s time to go cross-country skiing in Merrimack Valley! This winter sport is one of the most popular recreational activities you can find in scenic New England.
Why? Because it allows you to explore beautiful groomed trails throughout the woods, fields, and parks when the weather is crisp and the snow makes everything sparkle. While you ski, you can birdwatch, check the snow for signs of footprints and wildlife, and get some great exercise. Here are a few choice spots to go cross-country skiing this winter.
Great Brook Farm State Park
Want to explore notable Native American sites and see 17th-century cellar holes left behind by English settlers? Then go cross-country skiing at Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. This 1000-acre park features more than 20 miles of trails that are great to explore year-round.
In the winter, the beautiful hiking trails are groomed for cross-country skiers looking to explore the park. Parking is also free from December 1st until April 1st, so winter is the perfect time to plan a visit. Be sure to bring a thermos of hot chocolate to sip on as you explore this winter wonderland.
Walden Pond State Reservation
One of the most famous areas in Concord for its beauty and history, Walden Pond State Reservation is a must for any cross-country skier. It’s where Henry David Thoreau spent two years living in the wilderness, including two cold, snowy winters. So you can follow in his footsteps as you cross-country ski down the trails through the woods and around Walden Pond.
Follow the trail past the replica of his cabin near the parking lot all the way down to the original site of where he wrote his famous book Walden. It’s a must for cross-country skiers who crave a little history in their trip.
Nashoba Valley Ski Area
If you’re looking to move up from cross-country skiing to downhill skiing, it’s time to head over to Nashoba Valley Ski Area in Westford. Even during warmer winters, you can expect this ski resort to be 100% open, as they make their own snow when nature won’t provide!
While there, you can receive skiing and snowboarding lessons, or go tubing. There are 17 trails, with 20% of them being beginner-friendly. After you’ve had a full day of hitting the slopes, head over to the Outlook Restaurant for a hot, filling meal.
Winter sports are a great way to get outside when it’s cold and crisp, and cross-country skiing is undoubtedly one of the best options. Grab your skis, warm gloves, boots, binoculars, and a few snacks and prepare to explore Merrimack Valley on your next cross-country ski trip.
