Cross Country Ski Headquarters has been a beacon of authentic, outdoor experiences for half a century. Since its founding in 1974, this unique location has offered people the opportunity to get outdoors and have fun in the winter time.
Based in Higgins Lake, Michigan, the Headquarters serves as an essential retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This peaceful escape allows visitors to reconnect with the natural world around them, in an environment that feels welcoming and tranquil. Groomed Nordic ski trails, nestled within a vibrant evergreen forest, offer a serene getaway for the mind and body. Over the years, Cross Country Ski Headquarters has grown to much more than just a ski facility; it's a sanctuary where one can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
The unique setting at Cross Country Ski Headquarters also fosters genuine human interaction and fun. Whether it's chatting after a ski session, sharing a meal, or picking out a new ski package, visitors tend to be nourished by the culture of people drawn to this rare establishment.
From humble beginnings as a small rental operation, Cross Country Ski Headquarters has grown to a nationally recognized cross country skiing destination and specialty retail shop. They serve customers from all around the world, both in their physical store and through their online platform. Their offerings are not limited to just skiing events - they also provide consciously crafted meals and drinks, shopping, and other exciting activities. All these offerings culminate in an exciting winter season that you wouldn't want to miss! So, join them for an unforgettable winter experience at Cross Country Ski Headquarters!
EVENTS
There’s no better occasion to visit the Headquarters than for one of their signature events! Join them for any of the fun activities below, plus many more throughout the ski season:
- Bavarian Ski Festival on January 25th. German sausages, beer, Stein-holding contests and more.
- Ribs and Blues 50th Anniversary Celebration on February 22nd. Dress in your best vintage ski apparel, or as your favorite snowy animal, and celebrate 50 years of nordic spirit with us!
- Winter Feast on January 31st. Gourmet, candle-lit, five course dinner with wine pairings.
- Gourmet Lunch at Trapper’s Cabin on January 18th. Delicious beef stew and rustic, fresh bread around the bonfire at Trapper’s Cabin.
- Bob’s Bean Bomb served at the Stone Turtle Cafe on January 11th-12th. A legendary bean dip with a cult following.
- Junior Muffin Race on February 23rd. Fun XC ski races for kids ages 2-19. Costumes encouraged!
- Michigan Cup Relays on March 9th. A 5km ski race open to the public. All ages and levels are welcome.
LEARN TO SKI
With a large and modern equipment rental fleet, skilled instructors, and easy to moderate groomed trails onsite, Cross Country Ski Headquarters is perfectly suited for a positive XC ski experience. Book a private lesson, or join a group learn-to-ski event:
- Free Beginner Ski Lesson every Saturday at 10:30am. Open to the Public!
- Pure Michigan Winter Trails Day on Saturday, January 11th. This free event includes a facilities pass, group lesson, and lunch at Trapper’s Cabin! Rentals available at discounted rates.
- Jordyn Ross Classic and Skate Ski Clinics on January 4th and 5th. For beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers.
- Golden Years Ski School on January 12th. For ages 55+.
- Learn to Skate Ski Clinics on January 26th and February 9th.
NEW FOR THIS SEASON - LOCAL & SUSTAINABLE FOOD
Onsite at the Headquarters is the Stone Turtle Cafe, a restaurant specializing in delicious, nourishing food every day in the winter time. They feature a variety of healthy menu options that are lower-impact on the planet, including chipotle veggie chili, mediterranean grain and veggie bowls, and veggie paninis. This year, they’re also serving regeneratively farmed, local protein! Anavery Fine Foods in Traverse City will be providing local, humanely raised, antibiotic and GMO-free turkey, chicken and lamb to the Cafe this winter. Skiers will love to relax by the fire and enjoy the taste of local, delicious, consciously crafted food at the Stone Turtle Cafe, plus craft beer, wine and hot cocktails, and live music most weekends.
ABOUT
Cross Country Ski Headquarters is dedicated to promoting snow fun for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Along with the trails, there are shopping facilities, a day lodge, a cafe, and a lineup of events throughout the season, including learn-to-ski events, live music, ski races, and more. Visit www.CrossCountrySki.com to plan your visit, and explore their extensive range of cross country ski packages.
