ONC Willamette

Ski School

Ski School – 2026 Date TBD (To Be Decided)

Whether you’re brand new to Nordic skiing or have decades of experience, our annual Ski School is a great way to sharpen your skills and start the season strong. Join us for a day of instruction, practice, and camaraderie on the groomed Nordic trails at Hoodoo.

Who Should Attend?

Everyone! Ski School is not just for beginners. Whether you’ve been skiing for 10, 20, or 40 years, a day spent refining your technique can help you:

  • Improve efficiency and reduce fatigue
  • Build confidence on backcountry tours
  • Learn or polish skills like diagonal stride, kick double pole, snowplow, skating, or telemark turns

Come as a student, mentor, or observer—you’ll be glad you did.

General Information

  • Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
  • Date: 2026 Date To Be Decided (after the first snow, usually a Saturday at the end of January/beginning of February)
  • Location: Hoodoo Ski Area, 27400 Big Lake Road, Sisters, Oregon on their Nordic Trails
  • Cost: ~$47 per student (includes trail pass and group lesson)
  • Rental Gear: Nordic ski, boot, and pole rentals available from Hoodoo for ~$10

Note: Willamette Chapter membership is required to participate ~$20

What to Expect

  • Group Lesson: Taught by PSIA-certified Nordic instructors from Hoodoo’s Ski School
  • Practice Session: Mentoring from experienced ONC skiers
  • Departure: From Salem (rideshare details will be emailed to registered students)
  • Return: Approximately 5:00 PM
  • Bring: Your own food, water, gear, and transportation

After Ski School, the club will offer beginner-friendly ski tours so you can continue practicing your skills.

Register Now

Clothing & Gear Tips

Cross-country skiing is an aerobic activity—you’re more likely to overheat than get cold. Dress in layers and avoid cotton. Bring a backpack to store extra clothing and carry plenty of water.

For a helpful guide, visit:
REI: Cross-Country Ski Clothing

Skill Development Resources

A professional lesson is the best way to start, but you can also learn on your own. Here are some recommended resources:

Books

  • Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness by Steve Hindman (The Mountaineers, 2005)

Videos

Classic (Diagonal Stride):

Free Style (Skate):

Telemark Turns:

Questions?

Contact us for more details!