If downhill skiing with multiple children intimidates you as much as me, I’ve got a new adventure for you to try — cross-country skiing!
One of the most valuable groups I am in on Facebook is the 1000 Hours Outside Michigan group. Not only do I adore the movement itself, but I adore the local families that come up with the best ways to spend time outside! It’s where I learned about Cross Country Skiing at Huron Meadows Metropark in Brighton, Michigan. {Thankful for group member Sara who fielded my questions!}
Nothing beats spending time outside and making memories, and with very little to do as of late, we decided to give it a try.
I have visited Huron Meadows many times and had no clue they had rentals available for their cross-country skiing trails. Anything to do with skiing typically intimidates me due to cost and logistics of three children and two inexperienced parents. I figured cross-country skiing on flat land *should* be relatively easier…right?
Full disclosure: I have only been cross country skiing once MANY years ago. I have downhill skied a bit, but not since high school. I am NOT athletic. So if I can do it…so can you!
Because going new places with kids is always stressful to me, I wanted to walk you through our experience so you will go in confidently and enjoy yourself.
How To Cross Country Ski at Huron Meadows Metropark
For starters, you will need a Metroparks pass to visit {pay $10 once or pay $40 for an annual pass}. Additionally, due to Covid, ski rentals must be made in advance. Visit the Huron Meadows Metropark website to check the snow conditions and make your reservations.
TIP: Before you register, you must create an account and add each of your family members. Each person will need their own reservation. I recommend booking on a computer versus a phone to make it easier.
Rentals are $15 for adults and $9 for kids. The course itself is an extra $5/person if you have your own skis. It adds up quick for sure, but cost MUCH less than downhill skiing as a family. They also have an adaptive sit ski for disabled friends, too!
The ski rentals are located in the golf course clubhouse. Follow the signs until you are inside. There are rows of skis, boots, and poles and the workers inside will help you get squared away. There is also a restroom and concessions {for non-Covid times at least}. Masks are required inside the building.
Once you have your skis, you will step outside and snap them on. Simply pop your toe on and click them into place. {Definitely took us some tries to get it right!}
You’re now ready to head out! We chose the trail called Buck’s Run — it’s 1.5 miles through the woods with multiple spots to head back if you need to, which I appreciated as a parent. The trail itself is well-groomed — they even make snow for it so it can be used during less-than-stellar conditions. It also has lights for evening skiing — though skiers need to be back at the lodge by 6:40 p.m.
How’d it go with kids?
Well, the first 30 minutes of our adventure were met with multiple falls {myself included} and tears from the kids. It’s tricky to get the hang of! I recommend staying in the tracks all the way to the right and starting off slow.
We barely made it through the trail and the kids were grumpy. I was questioning if this was going to work. So, after a few loops, we headed back to the start. We popped off our skis and visited our van for water, hot cocoa, and snacks.
Whew — that made alllll the difference. Soon after the kids were ready to go again.
Our second loop was SO much better. The kids enjoyed the hills {there are two larger ones} and there were minimal falls…and the falls that did happen were more graceful now that they figured out how to stand back up!
I was blown away by the huge confidence boost it was for all of them. They were SO proud of themselves afterwards. One kid wasn’t sure she loved it, but the other two asked if we could go again immediately. I’d say that’s a win!
Hours & Location
The ski center is open Mondays – Fridays 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sundays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. when conditions are suitable. Last available rental is two hours prior to ski center closing. Equipment rentals must be reserved online no more than 5 days in advance and there are no refunds.
Huron Meadows Metropark is located at 8765 Hammel Rd., Brighton, MI 48116. There are plenty of restaurants in nearby Green Oak Village Place!
Tips we learned:
- Snacks are KEY. It’s hard work — they will be hungry. Sneak a granola bar or something small into your pocket if you have an extra hungry kid.
- Pack water. We saw serval experienced skiers with hydration packs like runners use. So smart. We all got thirsty!
- Watch the pros…but don’t get caught up in doing it just like them. It takes practice! Figure out what works for you and stick to it.
- Dress in layers. It was 28 degrees when we started out. Believe or not, we got super hot and ended up taking off a layer when we got a snack. We all had wool or double layer socks too. The ski boots were really warm and comfy so no need to get crazy. It’s a workout!
- Remain calm. Do not get upset if your child gets mad. Learning can be frustrating. In the words of Glennon Doyle, I said “We can do hard things,” MANY times.
- Consider your kids’ ages and attitudes. My kids are 6, 8, and 10. There were younger children out there though. With the right attitude, this could totally be done with littles. You know your child best!
Have so much fun if you visit!
Find more fun things to do in winter around SE Michigan, including other spots for cross-country skiing, at this post.
What fun things have you tried this winter?
