Learn to cross-country ski!
Tsalteshi Trails Association is offering classic and skate skiing lessons in January and February. For ages 18 and older. All* ski levels welcome, from first-time-on-skis through those wanting to refine their technique. (*We'll probably have limited coaching capacity for advanced skiers... we might put you to work teaching others! :)
Classic technique lessons: 2-3 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 7-Feb. 11 (register in advance online or in person)
Skate technique lessons: 6-7 p.m. Mondays, Jan. 8-Feb. 12 (register in advance online or in person)
Guided drop-in skis to practice what you're learning and get acquainted with the trails: 6-7 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 14 (no registration required)
TTA members: $5 per lesson (start or renew a TTA membership here)
Non-TTA members: $10 per lesson
No fee for Wednesday drop-in skis
Must have your own skis, boots and poles! Tsalteshi does not have rental equipment (try Beemuns in Soldotna for rentals. Beemuns and Wilderness Way sell ski equipment.)
- Check your equipment before lessons. Make sure you have the right skis and poles for the technique you want to learn (classic and skate skiing require different equipment). Make sure your boots attach to your ski bindings!
- Arrive at lessons a little early to get into your ski gear so we can start on time.
- If you need to wax your skis, do it ahead of time.
Dress for the weather. Layers are best! Expect to start out chilly and warm up as you get moving. No cotton! Lessons will start on the field behind Skyview, which can get a little windy. It's best to wear an outer layer that has wind-blocking properties.
Bring a headlamp for Monday and Wednesday evening skis. Tsalteshi has lights on the field where lessons will take place and on some of our trails through the woods, but your group might progress to a non-lighted loop.
Lessons will be canceled for adverse conditions. Winter weather can be fickle. If temperatures get too cold OR too warm, we will cancel lessons and refund your fee.
You don't have to attend every lesson but we will progress in skills each week. Tsalteshi has two events in February: Ski for Women on Feb. 11 (yes, guys can participate, too) and the Tour of Tsalteshi on Feb. 18. We'd love for anyone taking lessons to graduate into participating in these events and will structure lessons with that goal in mind. But if you have to miss a lesson, please come back the next week!
Questions? Contact Jenny at info@tsalteshi.org or 907-394-6397.