jackiedoherty.org

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13th December 2009

A X-Country Ski Outing

posted in Uncategorized |

Today, I joined friends on a drive to Windblown, a x-country ski center in New Ipswich, NH, just over the Massachusetts border somewhere west of Townsend. It took us about 45 minutes to get there, but we were hopeful that the conditions would be good for our first ski-outing of the season, and we weren’t disappointed. The parking lot was full, so I was afraid that the trails would be crowded, but once we got out we rarely saw more than 2 or 3 other skiers at a time. With 25 miles of trails, there is plenty of room to spread out! It was moderately hilly, which gave us a good workout, and we enjoyed a great view of Mt. Monadnock after one of the steeper climbs. Windblown is a small, family-run business that has been in operation since 1972. They have a friendly, relaxed style; a comfortable lodge with both a woodstove and a fireplace; and plenty of space for enjoying a picnic lunch – all for $16 a person ($10 for students, children under 8 can ski free). I was left wondering why I had never heard of this place before today, but now that I’ve experienced Windblown, I’m definitely going back.

There are currently 5 responses to “A X-Country Ski Outing”

Why not let us know what you think by adding your own comment! Your opinion is as valid as anyone elses, so come on... let us know what you think.

  1. 1 On December 14th, 2009, Kim said:

    Jackie,
    Is this something we could do with a 4 and 5 year old? We would love to get them outdoors as soon as possible.

  2. 2 On December 14th, 2009, Margaret said:

    Hi, Kim,
    It’s Margaret – they may be just a little too young. We did see many families, some with quite little kids, but I’m not sure of ages. It’s a great family activity, but the learning curve can be a little steep, so don’t expect them to love it right away. It can seem like just hard work when starting out – with proficiency comes a love of the sport and enjoyment of the wintry outdoors. Maybe start out at Great Brook Farm in Carlisle which is closer. They have some nice flat trails through the fields which are perfect for beginners. Check out their – http://www.greatbrookski.com/. There is also a center in Weston – they offer lessons for children, ages 6 and up (http://www.skiboston.com/skitrack/skischool/kids_lessons.php) With some patience and planning this activity could be something your whole family will enjoy for years to come. Good luck!

  3. 3 On December 15th, 2009, Kim said:

    Thank you for the information. We are not so keen on down hill but we love long walks outdoors so this may be right up our alley for winter entertainment. We may wait one more year though and start them off with some snow shoes on short walks.

  4. 4 On December 17th, 2009, Urbanek said:

    I’m just going to throw this out there since no one ever wants to discuss this topic:

    ritz crackers are better than triscuits

  5. 5 On December 17th, 2009, Jackie said:

    I heartily disagree, but by far my favorite cracker (which is really a chip) is Food Should Taste Good multigrain tortilla chips.

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