Cochrane residents are strapping on the skis and taking part in the popularity of cross country skiing this winter. In and around Cochrane a large number of people are trying to combat the pandemic restrictions with fun, safe activities that will get them out of the house.

Annika Andersson with Trailblazers Camping & Outdoor Store says they have seen an increased interest in the sport.  “Cross country skiing has been more popular this year than previously. It’s similar to biking, in that it’s fairly accessible and it’s fairly easy to learn, and it’s a good way to get out.”

This winter has provided the perfect recipe for the sport: Mix together the need for people to get out and be active in a socially distanced atmosphere, a heavy snowfall in December, and temperatures hovering around the freezing mark in January. Combine all the ingredients and it makes for a rise in the popularity of cross country skiing.

The fact that cross country skiing is more economical than some other sports is another reason for the rising popularity. Andersson adds, “It’s easy to borrow gear, it’s easy to rent gear, it’s easy to buy pre-owned and even if you’re buying new, it’s going to cost you a lot less than say downhill skiing.”

Cochranite’s are aware that we live in a very beautiful part of the world and getting outdoors and enjoying the scenery is a big part of our lives.

Again, Andersson points out that we have the cross country arena right in our own backyards. “ It’s also a lot easier to get out, you can just go in your own backyard or there are lots of parks and such where you can go for no cost. You don’t have to pay to go to the hill as you would with downhill skiing.”

The only downfall to cross country skiing's newly acclaimed notoriety is that equipment is becoming hard to find. Hopefully, you already had some, or you were proactive enough to have it on your Christmas wishlist.