Full Moon Xc Skiing at White Grass / Exploring Canaan Valley

OVERVIEW

Want to explore winter forests in 2 feet of natural snow *without* needing a lift ticket? White Grass is one of the best places on the east coast for cross country skiing, offering 50km of trails right next to Dolly Sods, easy classes, and an awesome cafe for lunch. Check out www.whitegrass.com for more background info.

Dolly Sods, Blackwater Falls, Canaan Refuge, and the rest of the area will also be covered in beautiful pow, so we’ll pick the best daytime options depending on group interest and skill level.

General game plan:
–9:00 am Saturday – Meet at the wall outside of Echols to gather gear and arrange carpools
–Noonish – Lunch, xc ski
–7:30 pm – Free, guided, full moon cross-country ski at White Grass
–9:00 pm – Dinner at Hellbender Burritos in Davis, WV ($10)
–10:00 pm – Head to Purple Fiddle Guest House in Thomas, WV (http://www.purplefiddle.com/roost.html) where we have our own room (~$15 each). The “appalachian americana roots group” Hey Mavis will be playing that night if we want to check them out ($10).
–Sunday – Ski to Bald Knob or elsewhere around White Grass ($20 day pass if skiing, another $15 if you need to rent gear), eat at the café or packed lunch, then return to Cville in the early evening.

What you need to bring:
–XC skis if ya got ’em, otherwise the club has some and there are rentals.
–Warm, waterproof gear similar to what you’d wear while skiing or snowboarding. Temps will stay below freezing, so aim for layers (thermal base layer, fleece, coat, wool socks, waterproof pants, hat, gloves).
–$$ for food, lodging, etc
–Snacks and water for the trail, maybe a thermos
–Overnight stuff, optional sleeping bag since the hostel room can get cold
–Bathing suit (never travel without one!)