While the UK does not have many places where cross country skiing (also known as Nordic Skiing) is possible, places like the Clashindarroch Forest in Aberdeenshire offer specially laid out trails for cross-country skiers.
Numerous ski clubs across the country offer the opportunity to take part in cross country skiing, often preparing tracks if there is not enough snow to ski on, while some organise trips to snowier climbs for the authentic experience.
Cross country skiing differs from skiing in several ways, as the skiing tends not to take place on slopes, but across flat terrain and up and down hill.
Types of cross-country skiing:
Stand-up skiers: Skiing standing allows people with amputations or physically able people to ski independently using one or two poles for balance and to propel them forward.
Visually-impaired skiers: Visually impaired skiers will also be standing, using poles and will have a guide. That guide will often have a microphone and a speaker to ensure that communication between the pair works.
Sit skiers: For people with spinal injuries, or those unable to stand, cross country skiing is still possible thanks to sit skis. The sit ski is a seat mounted on top of two fixed skis, often starting with a guide before getting used to the technical movement and skiing independently.
Things you might need to get started:
All equipment required can be hired at the centre and includes:
- Ski boots
- Skis or similar
- Helmet
- Warm, waterproof clothing
Find out more
GB Snowsport is the National Governing body for Para Snowsport https://www.gbsnowsport.com/
Disability Snowsport UK work to make sure that anyone with a disability, may it be learning, sensory or physical, can ski or snowboard alongside other people. http://www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk/What-We-Do.aspx