Elm Creek Park Reserve Prepares for Cross Country Opener
In spring, it’s all about the fishing opener. In the winter, it’s all about the third-annual Nordic Ski Opener, which is Saturday at Elm Creek Park Reserve.
If you are a skiing buff and crave a chance to get out on the snow-covered trails, this is the perfect opportunity.
“We’re going to get 3 to 4,000 people here,” said Karl Huemiller, who is with the Three Rivers Park District. “It’s a big day. It’s just really exciting for the community. The whole Nordic skiing community comes out because Nordic skiing is so important to them. It’s important to the state at large too. It impacts resorts up north.”
Snow conditions good for Nordic Ski Opener
The Three Rivers Park District is waiving fees for ski lessons, rentals and day passes for the Nordic Ski Opener.
The current snow conditions are good. Elm Creek has been making snow for 2-3 weeks and a couple of recent storms have turned the popular spot into a winter wonderland.
There will be advanced skiers at the Nordic Ski Opener and those trying out the sport for the first time. For snow-lovers, it’s never too early to start skiing – even for newbies who just learned to walk.
“No absolutely not,” said Marcus Magnusson of Champlin, who brought his 2-year old grandson Finn to ski on Thursday. “There are days when it seems like it’s maybe too young, but for the most part these guys just love it. Get ’em out having fun and winter is no problem.”
The first thousand people who show up to the opener will get a free Nordic ski buff. The Saturday forecast predicts a high of 34 degrees for the event.
