The Bear Valley Adventure Company (BVAC) is poised and ready for winter. Now, we just need the weather to cooperate and deliver more natural snow in the meadow. In the meantime, our store is filling with winter items, and we are preparing sales on last year’s ski models and used rental skis. Don’t hesitate to visit us and see if there is something you can’t live without. Of course, we think everybody in Bear Valley needs a pair of cross-country skis or two ;-)
As winter gets underway, a common question for new cross-country skiers is whether to try classic or skate skiing. In general, for those new to skiing, the classic style (aka striding) is best for learning the skills of balance, sliding, and stopping. Classic skiers can opt to walk in their skis or pick up the tempo and include a glide. The Bear Valley meadow is an ideal place to learn, with scenic and forgiving terrain. The hills and ridges nearby provide additional challenges. Many accomplished skiers have been humbled by the black diamond cross country trails at Bear Valley. In fact, the “Grin & Bear It” trail was featured at a recent ski conference as one of the nation's most challenging Nordic ski descents.
Skate skiing is the other option and best suits those already possessing strong skiing skills. Skate skiers use their skis in a V-formation to generate speed, similar to ice skating or inline skating. Coupled with longer poles, skate skiers can move considerably faster than classic skiers. Many accomplished alpine skiers find skate skiing both exhilarating and challenging and a great way to improve fitness and balance. Regardless of which discipline you choose, we look forward to seeing new and experienced skiers out on the Bear Valley Adventure Company trails system this winter.
