Cross-Country Skiing: Powered by Poor Planning (The Wood Pecker Encounter)

Today’s plan was downhill skiing at Pine Mountain. That plan was very optimistic.

After almost being pecked
Joe made a break for it!
Realized he didn't
have enough wax
on his skis. 
Thank goodness
this little guy only wanted
to peck wood.
Woodpeckers of MI
Burnt more calories!

After staying out a bit too late last night dominating a very competitive shuffleboard game, I pivoted to cross-country skiing instead. We had a light dusting of snow, and honestly, that’s one of the best things about living here—the outdoors are always just minutes from your front door.

The loop took me about 50 minutes, mostly because I realized halfway through that these skis have absolutely no wax on them. Rookie move. I should have checked beforehand, but hey, the extra workout was appreciated. Next time I’ll stop by one of our local hardware or sporting goods stores—assuming I can’t magically find wax hiding in the garage.

A word of caution: cross-country skiing uses a very different skill set than downhill skiing. I discovered this while sliding down a hill and landing squarely on my butt. Science.

Beyond the exercise, the real reason I get outside is nature itself. At one point, a little woodpecker decided to hang out and fly around me. I only managed to get a short video, but moments like that are exactly what make these outings special.

After I get back from visiting California (where apparently it is not cold like Michigan), I’m thinking about combining skiing or snowshoeing with some hunting. There are plenty of rural trails that likely have game, and it’s a great excuse to get exercise, take photos, and maybe bring dinner home.

If you’re curious, I’ve included some resources below for cross-country skiing in our area. Between that, snowmobile trails, ice fishing, and plenty of other outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of fun around here. And the best part? You don’t have to be rich to enjoy a pretty great lifestyle. 

More Calories are Burned Crosscountry Skiing versus Downhill Skiing. 

Visit Escanaba Winter Silence Support

Cross Country Skiing the UP