As the first early storms hit the Rockies, Nordic skiers across Colorado know: it’s go time. Not for perfect corduroy tracks, but for laying the foundation that will define your season. October is that sweet, fleeting month where focus and preparation meet possibility.
Looking ahead now will help you create a roadmap to a more satisfying season—goals are powerful motivators, even for the strictly non-racing recreational skier. Here’s a checklist that will get your gear and head in the game, and have you making the most of winter when it arrives.
1. Gear: Don’t Wait for the First Snow
We can’t totally overlook the gear prep. Too many skiers wait until November to find out their gear’s a mess. October is the time to get ahead.
- Skis - Check bases for any damage or dryness. If they haven’t seen wax since March, give them a good cleaning and a few layers of storage or base wax.
- Bindings - Look for cracks or missing screws, and clean any grit or wax that’s accumulated.
- Boots - Laces, zippers, and cuffs, test them all. Walk around the house in them to make sure they’re still supportive and warm.
- Poles - Check for cracks, missing baskets, and worn grips or straps. Replacing a strap in October is much better than improvising on day one.
- Swap - If you’re ready to level up, sell, or replace gear, look for early-season ski swaps, which hit this time of year.
Bonus Tip: Get your skis professionally tuned now. Shops are less crowded in the fall than after Thanksgiving, and you’ll be ready for opening day if we get an early snow.
2. Your Body: Transition from Fall Fitness to Snow-Ready
You don’t need to be in race shape, but now’s when your body should start tuning into ski-specific movement.
- Rollerskiing - If you’re comfortable on rollerskis, fall is prime time to dial in technique and balance.
- Ski-Specific Strength - Hill bounding with poles, core circuits, and balance drills build the foundation for explosive skiing later.
- Flexibility and Mobility - Add a 10-minute yoga or stretch video to your morning routine. A few extra minutes of stretching each day can pay off in smoother gliding and fewer injuries when snow returns.
3. Your Mind: Set Goals (without Pressure)
October is ideal for reflection and intention-setting. Nothing too deep or formal, but what gets measured gets done. Here are a few ideas to get started:
- What worked last season? What didn’t?
- What terrain or trail systems can I explore this year that will delight and challenge me?
- From gear fit to training and lessons, how can I leverage pro advice this year?
- What would “a great winter” look like for me?
Take time to journal or casually map out your performance-based and personal season goals. Even something as simple as “ski 2–3 days a week through March” can anchor your habits and mindset.
4. Trails & Conditions: Start Watching, Not Worrying
Don’t panic about early snow—or lack of it. Use October to:
- Stay Informed - Bookmark your favorite Nordic resorts or grooming reports.
- Scout Trails - Get in one last hike or run the trails you plan to ski on. It’ll help with navigation, muscle memory, and general excitement.
- Support Your Local Nordic Scene - Buy passes early, donate, or volunteer. Trail systems and Nordic programs rely on early-season revenue to kick things off.
5. Community: Don’t Go It Alone
Skiing is more fun and easier to commit to when you’re connected.
- Join a local ski club or reconnect with your winter training group.
- Sign up for a clinic or early-season camp.
- Follow local Nordic centers and events for updates, meetups, and early opportunities to connect.
Start in October, and show up week after week with consistency and care. You'll gain the edge you need to crush it by January.