The Hardwick Trails Committee has been making full use of this early ski season, regularly grooming our extensive trails network. These trails are open to all community members. We just ask that if you are walking or snowshoeing on the trails, you avoid the ski tracks which are created for classic skiers. As in the past, the blue/Shepard’s trail is for skiers and snowshoers only.
Loans of snowshoes or skis (classic or skate), boots and poles are available to community members of any age on Saturday mornings, between 9:00-11:00 AM, in the cabin behind Hazen Union school starting January 10. You can head out for a morning on our trails or consider a week loan option.
We are excited to again offer free Saturday morning beginner ski lessons for Hardwick area community members (snow/weather dependent). They will start this coming Saturday, January 10, and go through to February 14. Experienced instructors will share their love of skiing with those who are new to the sport or would like to improve their skills. Beginner nordic ski lessons are from 9:15-10:00 AM, gathering at the log cabin behind Hazen Union. If you would like to borrow equipment for a lesson, arrive 15 minutes early to be fully outfitted. Young children must be accompanied by an adult. Family participation is encouraged!
This year we are excited to expand the options for furthering your skill development beyond this introductory level. We offer three options:
Option 1: We will host multi-generational games (on skis!) out in the Hazen field from 10:00-10:45. Remember playing Red Light/Green Light with your neighborhood friends? Now imagine adding some skis on your feet! Playing games is a great way to improve your skiing comfort level – and have a hoot in the process! No pre-registration is required.
Option 2: Participants will head out on our trails in small groups from 10:00-11:00AM, based on your skill level and with the help of an experienced skier. We ask that participants pre-register for this option so that we can ensure the availability of volunteer guides. Email how many in your party will be participating and your estimated skill level to [email protected] by the Wednesday preceding the Saturday offering and look for confirmation.
Option 3: For those who want to develop their skate skiing ability, we will offer several clinics in the 10:00-11:00 time slot. Look for notice of this offering and a sign-up process.
Lessons may be canceled due to adverse weather or trail conditions. Check the Hardwick Trails website (https://hardwicktrails.com/) or our Facebook page by 8:30 AM on the morning of the lesson for notice of cancellation.
The goal of the Hardwick Trails and Recreation committees is to increase the number of people using the trails during the upcoming winter months, and ensure that access to equipment is not a barrier. The Hardwick trails are one of the hidden treasures of our community – here for you to explore in all their quiet beauty.