Eastern Idaho has provided locals with many recreational activities during the traditionally long winters. One of the most prominent sports is cross-country skiing, which can be enjoyed by skiers of all different levels of skill.

“I’ve done it, but I wouldn’t classify myself as a cross-country skier,” said Doug Stutz, Athletics coordinator.

Stutz said Athletics will hold tryouts for the newly organized cross-country ski competitive team Jan. 11-12.

Cross-country ski competitions are found around the world. One-third of all Winter Olympic medals are awarded in cross-country skiing and other Nordic sports. As a native of Ashton, Idaho, Morris Christensen, of the Activities Program, recommends the groomed trails around Teton Canyon located near Driggs, Harriman State Park, the Brimstone/Buffalo River area, Bear Gulch/Mesa Falls and the Fall River Ridge.

The Bear Gulch and Mesa Falls ski area also offers quality trails and is located seven miles northeast of Ashton, Idaho, on Mesa Falls Forest Highway 47. Here skiers can enjoy views of Upper and Lower Mesa Falls and a challenging nine-mile trail.

Christensen started cross-country skiing in high school and got into it more as he got older. “West Yellowstone has a great Nordic center where they have great trails where Olympic athletes have trained,” he said.

For more information on recreational cross-country skiing in the Idaho area, visit www.idahoparks.org/rec/ccskiing.