You can’t mention skiing in Perisher without the words ‘Cross Country’. A pastime that gets veterans and first-timers excited, Cross Country skiing is just as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Where downhill skiing and snowboarding are more often than not all about decline, Cross Country skiing flips the script and focuses on utilising your skis on the incline and trekking uphill – making way for much more rewarding downhill skiing segments interspersed throughout a session. If Cross Country skiing piques your interest or you are eager to learn more, you’ve planted your skis on the right blog!

A Brief History Lesson on Cross-Country Skiing 

Image source: National Parks NSW

So what is Cross Country skiing? Simply put, it is a form of skiing where skiers utilise only their skis to traverse various snow-covered terrain, rather than use ski lifts or snowmobiles. You heard that right, it is all purely on the skier and their skis to move around the mountain – so be sure to toss that lift pass out the window if you intend on Cross Country skiing. Originating in Norway, it was originally a form of travel across the harsh Norwegian snow terrain, but as time wore on throughout the 19th century it turned into a sport and eventually into what we see now today. Serving as both an international sport and leisure activity, Cross Country skiing involves the practical elements of its rich history mixed with the faster-paced segments of downhill skiing making for a great balance between the two.

Cross-Country Skiing Equipment and Safety Tips

Looking to delve into the world of Cross Country skiing for the first time? Ensure you have enough knowledge on the mountain you’re cross-country skiing on, and also how to best get through some of the more challenging sections. Ski safety is crucial on the slopes – whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier be sure to plan your trip within capability levels. Stick to appropriate ski trails for your level of experience and use equipment that is suitable for both fine and changing weather conditions. One of the main things to remember when Cross Country skiing is that safety, technique and equipment are all incredibly important. 

Cross Country skiing equipment must be of the correct size and sturdy quality to be able to tackle the terrain with complete confidence. Pole straps, gloves, boots and bindings that fit snugly are key to making for smooth skiing. Skis that can gain great momentum downhill to help push you uphill with traction will also add to a much more enjoyable experience. To cap off your equipment we recommend that you don’t go without a good pair of sunglasses, goggles will most likely not be required, but in the case of a bluebird day on the slopes, sunglasses would not go amiss. 

Are you Classic or Skate Style?

Now that you’re all set with your equipment, you can get your technique and style down pat. There are two specific techniques that you can attempt, with both requiring a different approach and set of equipment. If you go for the classic technique, you’re looking at a style of Cross Country skiing that mimics how one would walk with arms and legs working in time on opposite sides. Skate style offers a different approach, with lateral movements that are likened to ice skating. These techniques are unique and over time you discover which approach is best suited to your style of Cross Country skiing.

Where to from here: Cross Country Skiing Australia

Some of the best Cross Country tours you can do are right here on home soil in Australia, and more specifically at Perisher snow resort. Cross Country Skiing NSW has a wide range of options, with various trails, courses and time trial hikes that will get the competitive juices flowing. One of the great advantages of most resorts like Thredbo or Mount Hotham in Victoria is that their Cross Country trails offer different experiences based on the level of difficulty you can handle. At Perisher, we offer different trails based upon three different experience levels, so whether you are new to the Cross Country skiing game, intermediate or a seasoned pro – we have got the courses covered. It’s as easy as taking a look at the Perisher trail map, and finding out what runs best suit your style and experience.

The Next (Snow-filled) Steps

Image source: National Parks NSW

Perisher offers a host of lessons for those wanting to dip their toe in, with multiple clubs and trainers on-mountain that will give you the best tips and resources to get you on a solo or group run. Lessons are a great way to get comfortable in your snow boots and confident tackling different types of snow terrain, without the dangers of going solo. Lessons at Perisher range in cost depending on which training group you wish to go with, but the outcome will always be the same; greater confidence in your skiing ability and knowledge to read the terrain.

If you are looking to join a club to expand your Cross Country skiing horizons, there are also multiple clubs on Perisher, Thredbo and other snow resorts that will be more than happy to take you on board if you are ready to delve into the social and competitive side of cross country skiing. A quick Google search would lend itself to a number of different clubs that all range in vision and goals when it comes to Cross Country skiing. The beauty of this, of course, is that depending on how competitive or social you are, you will find the best club that suits you.

Cross Country skiing is an incredible sport or hobby that can provide that next challenge that you may be looking for on your next snow adventure. If you’re eager to get the blood pumping and work on specifically groomed Cross Country runs that take you on a journey, Perisher offers a wide range of trails to consider.

If you’re planning your next Cross Country skiing trip to Perisher, why not book with us at Eiger Chalet? With the world-famous White Spider restaurant to relax and dine in after a long day of Cross Country skiing on the slopes, it is the perfect place for your on snow stay.