Cross-country skiing with the whole family

Most families go skiing on the normal slopes during their winter holidays. But there are so many other sports to discover. One of these underrated winter sports is cross-country skiing. Here you can find out what you need for cross-country skiing and why the sport is fun for the whole family.

How cross-country skiing works

When cross-country skiing, you glide on narrow cross-country skis over pre-marked trails. To do this, you push yourself backwards with your feet and poles. If your children can already ice skate or skateboard, they will quickly learn to cross-country ski.

You need this equipment for you and your children

In many winter sports resorts throughout Austria you can rent cross-country skis , cross-country ski poles and the right cross-country ski boots. These are much lighter than ski boots and therefore more comfortable. Since cross-country skiing is very similar to running, you should dress as you would for jogging in winter. Breathable, water-repellent running clothes for winter, cross-country ski gloves and a hat are sufficient.

Cross-country skiing courses for young and old

Just as your child takes a ski course to learn to ski, they should also learn to cross-country ski in a course. You can also take this course together as a family if winter sports are a new experience for all of you. So look for a ski school in advance that also teaches cross-country skiing.

The most family-friendly trails in Austria

Your child can learn cross-country skiing from the age of five. The cross-country ski trails in western Austria are particularly recommended for children and young people. There are family-friendly trails here and some sections of the trail are designed to be exciting especially for children. The cross-country ski children's area in Angerberg and the Leutasch ski school are particularly worth mentioning. They offer a course, a wave track and other attractions. The Saalachtal and Hochkönig ski areas in Salzburg as well as Wildschönau and St. Johann in Tirol are also family-friendly.

Your advantages when cross-country skiing with the family

The most popular winter sports equipment is skis. But there are some differences between skis for the slopes and cross-country skis. Here you can find out what advantages cross-country skis bring you.

Lower risk of injury for your children

It is not uncommon for children to injure themselves on the ski slopes. Either they go too fast, crash into something or a jump goes wrong. None of this can happen when cross-country skiing. Cross-country skiing has only a slight incline in the terrain. The most your children can do is fall on the flat. This will only result in bruises. Overall, cross-country skiing is considered to be an extremely safe winter sport.

Don’t wait for the ski lift

Don't feel like queuing for the gondola, chairlift and drag lift? You don't have to. When cross-country skiing, you do n't have to wait for a lift and you don't need an expensive lift ticket. You just drive to the trail with your family, put on your cross-country skis and off you go. There are usually comfortable hotels in the immediate vicinity of the trails.

With the dog through the snow

Man's best friend wants to accompany his family everywhere. However, taking your dog with you on the ski slopes would be too dangerous. This is different with dog trails. Here, four-legged companions are welcome and can romp through the snow with you. For example, you can take your dog with you on the dog trail in Seefeld in Tyrol . There are also trails in Upper Austria and Carinthia where dogs are allowed. Before you go on your winter vacation, find out whether there is a dog trail in the ski area of ​​your choice. If this is the case, you should also pack a small piece of equipment for your dog. Think about a chest harness and possibly attach a jogging leash to it. You hook this onto a waist belt. This way you have both hands free for the cross-country ski poles. In extremely cold temperatures, your dog should also wear a winter jacket. And since cross-country skiing is also a strenuous sport for your four-legged friend, he needs some water and a foldable bowl. The best way to transport this is in a small, narrow backpack that sits well on your back. This means your freedom of movement is not restricted.

Conclusion

Cross-country skiing is not a boring winter sport for adults. Your children can also easily learn to cross-country ski and have fun on family-friendly trails. You also need less equipment for cross-country skiing and you can even take your dog with you.