Nordic skiing is more than just a sport—it’s a gateway to adventure, community, and personal growth. Yet, the excitement of gliding through snowy trails isn’t always easy to access. For many, cost, equipment, and proximity to ski areas are barriers that keep them from experiencing the joy of Nordic skiing. At the CCCSA, we’re passionate about changing this by making trails, lessons, rentals, and accommodations accessible to everyone.
While skiing has its solitary charm, we’re here to make it a little less solo and a lot more social. Our centers have curated events and resources to foster connections and create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, from seasoned skiers to total beginners. We’re laying down the snowy welcome mat to build a thriving, inclusive community for future generations of skiers.
Here’s how you can dive in, get involved, and help make Nordic skiing accessible and enjoyable for all:
1. Attend and offer women-specific events and instruction.
Clinics geared for women are great at introducing or re-introducing skiers to the sport by creating a collaborative and encouraging space (TBH, not always easy with you solo-loving go-fasters). Women generally prefer skiing and learning in collaborative and supportive learning environments.
Check CCCSA member events for upcoming women’s clinics and events like Frisco Nordic’s women’s skate-ski clinics. They include instruction and equipment and are offered for different ability levels so you can ski with like-minded students; classes run for four weeks in January/February.
2. Promote adaptive programming.
Sit skis, walkers, and kick sleds can provide access to skiers with different mobility needs. The Colorado Tourism Office keeps a comprehensive list of programs and opportunities throughout the state; Colorado is also home to the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD), offering private and group lessons and competition programs. Programs appreciate financial support as well as volunteers to accompany and teach skiers.
3. Coach and support youth-serving organizations.
CCCSA data shows that most adult Nordic skiers were brought up in Nordic skiing families. To help other kids who don’t have that family opportunity, volunteer coaches can be an invaluable source of encouragement and expertise.
Ask your home Nordic center about school- or youth-centered programs they offer and how you can help. Donate to mountain town community foundation funds that support young aspiring athletes, or check out organizations like Share Winter Foundation to help build pathways to Nordic sports participation.
4. Encourage and inspire beginners.
A friendly tip, a hand up after an awkward wipeout, or sharing a map and some trail recommendations can make a new skier’s day and be the difference between a frustrating afternoon or a pretty great time on the snow. Or get the nordic scoop from locals around Colorado.