24 Dec 24 - Daily Trail Report - Jackson Hole Nordic Alliance

General Weather – Warmer weather continues

Mountain Weather is forecasting daytime highs in the 30s this week with snow showers but not a lot of accumulation. For a detailed daily forecast check out mountainweather.com.

What’s Groomed Today? Tuesday, December 24

Every Day

Turpin Meadow Ranch – early season conditions
Trail Creek Nordic
Teton Pines Nordic
Shooting Star Nordic – season pass required

Tuesday

*Be sure to check out the real time grooming situation of your chosen trail by clicking the links above as trail grooming is dependent on conditions. Thank you groomers!

Skiing Through the Holidays: Traditions on the Trails

Skiing under the night sky at Turpin Meadow Ranch, photo courtesy of Elee Deschu

There are some lovely Christmas Eve traditions involving cross-country skiing in various parts of the world, particularly in regions with strong skiing cultures and snowy winters. Below are some examples which may inspire an adventure for you and your loved ones today.

Skiing Under the Stars: In Nordic countries like Sweden, Norway, and Finland, it’s common for families and friends to enjoy an evening cross-country ski outing under the stars on Christmas Eve. Some trails are illuminated, while others rely on the serene glow of the moon and snow to light the way. This tradition combines exercise with the peacefulness of nature, setting a magical tone for the holiday.

Candlelight Skiing: In snowy communities across Europe and North America, some trails host special candlelight or lantern-lit skiing events on Christmas Eve. These create a festive, romantic, and family-friendly atmosphere, allowing skiers to glide along beautifully lit paths while soaking in the holiday spirit.

Caroling on Skis: In a playful twist on traditional caroling, some groups ski from house to house or along a designated trail, singing holiday songs.

Ski to Church: In Scandinavian countries, particularly Norway, cross-country skiing is sometimes used as a way to travel to Christmas Eve church services. This tradition blends practicality with a sense of adventure and nostalgia, as it recalls the historical significance of skiing as a means of transport.

Silent Night Ski: Some skiers choose a peaceful Christmas Eve ski to reflect on the year and enjoy the stillness of nature. This personal tradition allows for a moment of mindfulness and gratitude in the midst of the holiday hustle.

Festive Ski Gatherings: In ski-loving areas, families and friends may gather for a Christmas Eve ski, often followed by a cozy bonfire or hot drinks like mulled wine, cider, or hot cocoa. This tradition brings people together for an active yet relaxing way to celebrate the holiday.

No matter if you choose one of the traditions above or create your own, cross-country skiing on Christmas Eve can be cherished for its ability to combine physical activity, connection with nature, and the magic of the season.

Paws and Reflect: Doggone Good Manners for Winter Trails

Being a responsible dog owner on winter trails begins with knowing where to go. There are almost 70 dog friendly trails listed on the JH Nordic website! Check them all out here. Once there, always keep your dog leashed at the trailhead and in busy areas to prevent accidents or conflicts. Respect wildlife by keeping your dog under control at all times, even a well-behaved dog’s curiosity can disturb wintering animals.

Trail etiquette for dog owners also includes leaving no trace. Always bring mutt mitts to pick up after your dog and dispose of them properly—leaving waste bags on the side of the trail is not acceptable. If your dog picks up sticks along the way, toss them off the trail to prevent hazards for skiers and headaches for groomers. Likewise, ensure you bring home any toys or gear your dog uses during your outing.

By embracing these simple yet impactful principles, you’re not just a trail user—you’re a trail hero! Each thoughtful choice you make, from properly disposing of waste to ensuring your dog’s behavior is trail-friendly, contributes to a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable experience for everyone. Imagine the smiles on fellow trail users’ faces as they pass a well-mannered dog and a considerate owner.