Your Online Resource for Hiking, Backpacking, Cross-Country Skiing, and Snowshoeing at Lake Tahoe
A research scientist recently revealed that aging athletes can maintain performance levels through smart and hard training. Contradicting common beliefs about age-related decline, the discussion emphasizes overcoming mental barriers, setting realistic goals, and breaking routines. Embracing challenges can lead to success in various endeavors, regardless of age.
During the winter of 2025-26, one of my subscribers asked about my use of the term “backcountry cross-country skiing.” Since that phrase is fairly generic and not used regularly, the person hadn’t heard it before. Therefore, they wanted to know how it differed, for example, from cross-country downhill (XCD) or backcountry touring. I see this…
Jared reflects on his summer of low heart rate training, recognizing initial lofty expectations that shifted to a more realistic approach. Embracing a run-walk-run method, he ultimately learned to enjoy running again. This experience fostered a deeper connection to nature and renewed commitment to sustainable training practices.
After reintroducing running in May 2025, Jared began logging 25 miles weekly as part of a long-term health plan to prepare for cross-country skiing. Embracing a more process-driven approach, Jared focused on maintaining a heart rate of 120-140 bpm while enjoying nature and setting mini-goals for a fulfilling experience.
Jared reflects on his lifelong journey as an endurance athlete, participating in various sports without competitive aspirations. He shares experiences from running marathons, hiking trails, and cross-country skiing, emphasizing the importance of sustainable training practices over sheer intensity. Recently, Jared decided to reintroduce running into his life to promote year-round health.
This article answers your questions about waxing waxless cross-country skis! Pretty obvious considering that title, right? Well, I felt compelled to write this FAQ as a stand-alone article because, over the years, I’ve been frequently asked the same questions about waxing waxless cross-country skis. And I wanted to consolidate all of those questions in one…
“I’m new to cross-country skiing. What type of skis should I buy?” Or, “Since I’m new to cross-country skiing, should I just buy a used set of skis?” People have asked me these questions countless times over the years. As a cross-country ski instructor and xc rental shop employee, it’s my duty to know the…
If you would’ve told me years ago that I was going to own multiple pairs of cross-country skis and sets of skis boots, I would’ve laughed. And then had you told me that I’d also own a full wax kit, wax profile, and loads of cross-country ski clothing, I would’ve laughed even harder. Not because…
The question of whether or not there exists one set of cross-country skis that’ll allow you to ski in all conditions is on the mind of every person buying their first set of skis. And, for good reason. People want to maximize their fun while spending the least amount of money. They don’t want to…
New cross-country skiers looking to buy gear for the first time consistently ask me two questions. The first is whether or not they can buy one set of skis to use on groomed and backcountry terrain. My answer to that question is “technically yes, but functionally no.” Click the following linked text to read my…