General Weather – More chances of snow and cooler weather
Mountain Weather is forecasting more chances of snow the next few days and cooler temperatures returning. For a detailed daily forecast check out mountainweather.com.
What’s Groomed Today? Saturday, January 4
Every Day
- Turpin Meadow Ranch
- Trail Creek Nordic
- Teton Pines Nordic
- Shooting Star Nordic – season pass required
Saturday
- Teton Canyon
- Grand Targhee Nordic
- Alta Nordic Track
- Teton Reserves
- Stilson Loop / Emily’s Pond / Wilson-Centennial Trail
- School Fields Loop (Jackson)
Be sure to check the real-time grooming situation of your chosen trail by clicking the links above as trail grooming is dependent on conditions. Thank you groomers!
Training for a Nordic Ski Race: Physical and Mental Preparation
Training for a Nordic ski race requires a balance of physical conditioning and mental fortitude, as the sport demands endurance, strength, technique, and resilience. By combining these elements, you can prepare your body and mind for the rigors of competition.
Physical Preparation
The foundation of physical training for Nordic skiing lies in building endurance. Incorporate long, steady sessions of skiing, running, or cycling into your routine to strengthen your tolerance for distance. These sessions simulate the sustained effort required during a race and improve your ability to maintain a steady pace.
Strength training is equally critical. Focus on developing core, upper body, and leg strength, as Nordic skiing engages the entire body. Exercises like pull-ups, planks, squats, and deadlifts are excellent for building the muscular endurance needed to power through challenging terrains. Don’t neglect explosive movements like box jumps or burpees, which mimic the quick bursts of energy required for sprints or steep climbs.
Technique refinement is also vital. Work on your skiing form by practicing on varied terrains. Enlist an instructor (find one here) or record yourself to identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to your double-poling efficiency and weight transfer during strides, as these technical elements can greatly enhance your speed and energy efficiency.
Mental Preparation
A strong mindset is as important as physical readiness in Nordic skiing. Races can be challenging, with mountain weather and competition to test your limits. Begin by setting clear, achievable goals for both training and racing. These objectives will keep you focused and motivated throughout your preparation.
Visualization is a powerful tool. Regularly picture yourself skiing confidently through the course, overcoming challenges, and crossing the finish line. This mental rehearsal builds confidence and reduces race-day anxiety. Pair this with mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or deep-breathing techniques, to help you stay calm and centered under pressure.
Finally, train your mind to embrace discomfort. Nordic skiing can be physically and mentally taxing, especially during uphill climbs or long stretches of fatigue. Push your boundaries in training by incorporating high-intensity intervals or tackling challenging conditions. This practice will make it easier to stay composed and push through pain when it matters most.
By blending a structured physical training plan with mental conditioning, you’ll equip yourself to perform at your best on race day. The synergy of a well-prepared body and a focused mind is the key to success in Nordic skiing.
There are already over 100 racers registered – join in the fun and don’t miss out! Signing up early makes all the difference—for you and for the race organizers. Don’t wait until the last minute—secure your spot today! And ask your family and friends to join you – the more, the merrier! Thank you for supporting this incredible community event benefiting Teton Valley Trails and Pathways.
What’s New and Noteworthy for 2025:
- Tons of Snow: The latest storm cycle brought plenty of fresh snow, ensuring a pristine course and fantastic conditions for race day.
- Professional Timing: This year, we’re stepping it up with professional timing to ensure accurate results for all participants.
- 2km Kids Race – 9:30am: Introduce your little ones to the excitement of nordic racing with a fun, family-friendly 2km event. It’s a great way to get the next generation out on the snow!
- 8km Distance – 10:30am: Looking for a race that’s challenging but manageable? The 8km course offers a fun, balanced experience with scenic views and smooth trails.
- 28km Distance – 10:40am: Take on the “monster” course! With 2,000 feet of climbing and a thrilling 2km single-track section, this one’s for skiers ready to test their endurance and skills.
- New Start/Finish Location: We’re thrilled to host this year’s start and finish next to Moose Creek Ranch, providing a seamless experience for racers and spectators alike.
- Post-Race Party: After the race, join us for the Teton Ridge Classic Post-Race Party (TRCPRP) at Moose Creek Ranch. Warm up with delicious soup, fresh bread, and beverages while swapping stories and connecting with fellow racers.
Registration is live for the 2025 Moose Chase. Come join the fun on February 15th @ Trail Creek Nordic Training Facility in Wilson, Wyoming. This is a skate, or freestyle, Nordic skiing event. There is no specific classic division and no classic tracks. This Premier Nordic race includes distances for all ages and ability levels, with a 20k, 10k, 5k, 3k, 2k and a free 1k.
There is a lot of information on the Moose Chase webpage, so be sure to check it out!
Thank you to the groomer at Trail Creek for sharing the following race update: Currently the Super Tour #2 – U.S. National Championships at Kincaid Park in Anchorage, Alaska is ongoing and a small group of local IMD skiers are up there giving it their all. While there have been lots of great finishes, of note is that Lena Poduska finished first in the U18 female division Thursday, way to go Lena and all the rest of the JHSC racers! Results are available at this link and you can even catch the livestream at the event web page.
Get Ready for JH Nordic Free Ski, Fat Bike, and Snowshoe Day
In just over a week the annual JH Nordic Free Ski, Fat Bike, and Snowshoe Day will be here! There are a few things you can do to prepare for the festivities in order to get the most out of the day.
- First, please pre-register by signing the acknowledgment of risk.
- Second, make sure you’ve got all of your (and your friends) gear in your car! Demos will be available, however you are encouraged to bring your own equipment to enjoy on the trails between demos, lessons, and tours.
- Lastly, organize a carpool with your friends! You can use our JH Nordic Skier’s Facebook group and coordinate with others that plan to attend. There is a shuttle graciously provided by Teton Science Schools – Leaving Home Ranch at 9am – return – leaving Turpin at 2:45 pm. Two vans seating 10 people each. Only 20 people max. Nordic skis/poles welcome. No bikes. No dogs. Simply email hello@jhnordic.com and reserve your spot!
Events
Saturday, January 11
Less than two weeks left to get on your classic skis and train for this ‘classic’ race on the Southern Valley ski trails in Victor, Idaho.
Wydaho Nordic Race Series – Moose Chase
Saturday, February 15
This premier Nordic race includes distances for all ages and ability levels, with a 20K, 10K, 5K, 3K, and a free 1/2K.
Saturday, January 18
Put on your bell bottoms & get ready for the largest non-profit fundraiser in 2025 for the Sublette Trails Association (STA)
Bringing in the new year with great cheer!
Thank you to our platinum sponsors and community supporters.
JH Ecotour Adventures
Skinny Skis
WYldlife for Tomorrow
Jim and Mary Speyer
Scott Horn
Nancy Leon and Charlie Thomson
Nina Berlin Rubin and Shaena Ulissi
Chris and Gretchen Sebald
Michael and Trish Spain
The Storer Foundation
The Bitzer Family Fund
JH Travel and Tourism Board
