Nordic Tradition Helps You Find the Rhythm of Winter 

Utah is known for its snow-capped peaks and world-class downhill skiing, but the state’s winters also boast an exceptional experience beyond the groomed slopes.

Long enjoyed in Nordic countries, cross-country skiing has made a name for itself in the Wasatch Back with miles and miles of pristine trails not far from the ski town at destinations like Soldier Hollow, Wasatch Mountain State Park, and Homestead Resort.
It’s easy to see why visitors and locals seeking a more serene sport might find cross-country skiing a refreshing alternative as they glide across open meadows and climb gentle hills.

Part of the sport’s appeal is its meditative rhythm. Cross-country skiing brings a blend of physical effort and mental relaxation—not to mention the stunning landscapes that make it one of the Wasatch Back’s most rewarding winter pastimes.

The Benefits of Cross-country Skiing

Cross-country skiing involves rhythmic, repetitive motions often in quiet, peaceful environments. This creates the perfect recipe for mindfulness, improved mood, and feeling connected to nature.

A long-term Swedish study published in 2019 on the United States National Library of Medicine website found that cross-country skiers had a significantly lower risk of developing depression over time and a lower risk of anxiety disorders compared to non-skiers. The findings support that physical activity associated with cross-country skiing is associated with positive long-term mental health.  

Of course, there are also physical health benefits associated with cross-country skiing.
The full-body workout involves keeping the arms, core, and legs engaged simultaneously, and helps improve balance, coordination, and overall endurance. Despite being a low-impact exercise suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, cross-country skiing is also an excellent cardiovascular workout with a high-calorie burn.

Where To Go?

Soldier Hollow Nordic Center
2002 Olympic Drive, Midway, Utah
An Olympic legacy venue, Soldier Hollow Nordic Center has easy trails for those just starting and more challenging courses for the experienced skier. The Nordic Center combines snowmaking and groomed trails to create a quality, varied network of terrain that’s fun for everyone. Soldier Hollow has an approachable, family-friendly atmosphere with lessons, clinics, rentals, and a fun-packed calendar. Soldier Hollow Nordic Center has more than 20 miles of trails.

Wasatch Mountain State Park
1281 Warm Springs Road, Midway, Utah
Located in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, the views of farms and mountains at Wasatch Mountain State Park are stunning year-round. The state park provides more than 7 miles of Nordic ski track with diagonal stride and skating lanes on the golf course. The terrain is flat and hilly, offering variety that will please everyone. There are affordable day-use passes and rentals. Wasatch Mountain State Park also offers opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing. 

Homestead Resort
700 Homestead Drive, Midway, Utah
Homestead Resort is built on 183 acres in Midway, providing exceptional year-round offerings for outdoor adventurers. About 18 miles south of Park City, Homestead Resort offers 12 miles of traditionally groomed trails on its golf course. Guests can also enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and the Homestead Crater—a 90-plus degree geothermal hot spring inside a 55-foot dome of limestone that boasts swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Homestead Resort also helps guests explore the Wasatch Mountains with guided excursions that take advantage of the greatest snow on earth. 

Broader Summit County
visitparkcity.com/outdoors/cross-country-skiing
Between Basin Recreation, the Mountain Trails Foundation, and the White Pine Nordic Center, Summit County’s Nordic trail system has grown to nearly 80 kilometers.
Mountain Trails Foundation explains that fat-tire bikes, snowshoeing, and winter trail running have grown in popularity, along with single-track trails. There are several winter trail venues in Summit County including Round Valley, Utah Olympic Park, and Willow Creek.

Nordic skiing in Utah has gained a well-deserved reputation as another popular winter sport on the Wasatch Back. Whether skiers are taking quiet loops at historic Olympic venues, moving past snow-covered farmland, or gliding on a mountainous trek, each outing is sure to create core memories. With accessible trails, rental options, and offerings at every ability level, the Wasatch Back is the perfect place to slide into cross-country skiing for the novice and for those who return season after season.

View more in the Winter 2025/26 Adventure Guide