HARDWICK – This year’s early snow cover has allowed the Hardwick Trails Committee to get an early start grooming the extensive trails network. Trails are now open to all community members.
photo by Helen Beattie
For the first time in the history of the Hardwick Trails ski program, a team of volunteers glide-waxed the entire ski inventory. Five volunteers joined the waxing party, Saturday morning, Jan. 3, with an upgrading of the loaner skis, owing to the Prevot Family Foundation’s contributions over a number of recent years.
The waxing crew included Kristen Leahey, Brendan Buckley and Hardwick Trails members Eric Remick, Corey Hathaway and Andy Gilbert.
With loaner skis waxed, the committee was ready for the January 10 start of beginner ski lessons and staffing the cabin to offer loaner skis and snowshoes last weekend.
Loans of snowshoes or skis (classic or skate), boots and poles are available to community members of any age on Saturday mornings, between 9 and 11 a.m., in the cabin behind Hazen Union school through to February 14. There is a week loan option.
photo by Helen Beattie
Those walking or snowshoeing on the trails should avoid the ski tracks created for classic skiers, with the blue-Shepard’s trail reserved for skiers and snowshoers only.
Saturday morning beginner ski lessons for Hardwick area community members are offered when snow and weather conditions are favorable. Instructors are available to work with those who are new to the sport or would like to improve their skills.
Beginner Nordic ski lessons are from 9:15 to 10 a.m., with skiers gathering at the log cabin behind Hazen Union School.
Those wanting to borrow equipment for a lesson should arrive 15 minutes early to be fully outfitted. Young children must be accompanied by an adult. Family participation is encouraged.
This year, expanded options are being offered to further skill development beyond the introductory level. There are three options.
Multi-generational games on skis at the Hazen Union field will be held from 10 to 10:45 a.m. each Saturday. The variety of games might include Red Light-Green Light on skis. “Playing games is a great way to improve your skiing comfort level and have a hoot in the process,” said trails committee member Helen Beattie.
Small group tours of the trails from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday’s will be tailored to participant’s skill levels and led by an experienced skier. Participants must pre-register to ensure the availability of volunteer guides. Email how many in a party will be participating and the estimated skill level to [email protected] by the Wednesday preceding the Saturday offering and look for confirmation.
Skate skiing clinics will also be offered in the 10 to 11 a.m. time slot. Look for notice of this offering and a sign-up process.
Lessons may be canceled due to adverse weather or trail conditions. Check the Hardwick Trails website at hardwicktrails.com or the Hardwick Trails Facebook page by 8:30 a.m. on the Saturday morning of the lesson for notice of cancellation.
The goal of the Hardwick Trails and recreation committees is to increase the number of people using the trails during winter months and ensure access to equipment is not a barrier. The Hardwick Trails are one of the hidden treasures of the community, available to explore in all their quiet beauty, said the committee.
Paul Fixx is editor of The Hardwick Gazette and lives in Hardwick.
