Watching skiers much of my life (but flunking out on the slopes, myself), I've always considered the cross-country folks a hardier breed than those just schussing downhill. Now comes along the Cross Country Ski Areas Association to tell us that Nordic vacations are cheaper than alpine sports--and easier.
Compared with other winter vacations, a cross country ("XC") ski escape costs much less. Why? Much less equipment and trappings--no lift tickets for one; you're on the ground the whole time. A weekend vacation for a family of four, including lodge accommodations, breakfast and dinner, trail fees, rental equipment and a lesson is available in New England for under $500. This deal is available at the Lapland Lake Lodge in North Creek, New York (www.laplandlake.com) and The Sunday River Inn & Cross Country Center in Newry, Maine (www.sundayriverinn.com). If you don't have your own skis, rentals are onsite. Have more time and more cash? A week's getaway for two starts from $2,000 at Mountain Meadows Guest Lodge in Big Sky, Montana (www.mountainmeadowsranch.com). The package includes seven nights' lodging, all meals and skiing. At the other end of the spectrum are simple day trips with your trail pass costing as little as $8 at the Hildene Cross Country Ski Center in Manchester, Vermont (www.hildene.org/XCSki.htm) or up to $35 for a pass, equipment and a lesson at XC Headquarters in Roscommon, Michigan (www.cross-country-ski.com).
Cross-country skiing is quite accessible; many of the 350-plus ski areas in North America are less than two hours from urban centers, many within an hour's drive. It's a great total body workout, plus the whole family can take part in some way--infants and toddlers going along for the ride in a backpack or on a sled, parents and grandparents moving along with this kinder and gentler sport (since it uses natural body movement, it doesn't require any special skills to get started). And thrill seeking teens who want faster speeds can skate-ski, a technique that combines the leg motion of ice-skating and the arm push of cross country skiing. You may also try snowshoeing, and some centers even welcome dogs on designated trails.
For more information, including a list of resorts and trails by state, contact the Cross Country Ski Areas Association (CCSAA) at 877/779-2754 or visit www.xcski.org.