How to Cross Country Ski in Illinois

You'll find the best terrain and conditions for cross country skiing in the northern section of Illinois. The weather is a little colder here than the rest of the state, but you'll find the views from a pair of skis well worth the temperature drop. Plus you'll have one more excuse to warm up with a hot cup of cocoa at the end of your cross country ski!

Things You'll Need

  • Proper attire including wicking, thermal and wind/water-proof layers
  • Cross country skis
  • Boots
  • Poles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plan a trip to Apple River Canyon State Park. Here you'll find nearly 300 acres of park, with 5 nature trails and 50 campsites. You can pack up the family in the RV and head out to this state park located in Apple River at 8763 East Canyon Road.

    • 2

      Discover why serious cross country skiers love the Kankakee River State Park. Here you'll find a series of trails which go for miles along the park's namesake, the Kankakee River. Ski the north side of the river if you are looking for well-groomed conditions for the beginner skiers in your family.

    • 3

      Check out Rock Cut State Park, the Illinois mecca for cross country skiers. Located in Loves Park, Illinois, this park has over 3,000 acres for cross country enthusiasts to explore. Expect to come across marked snowmobile trails, but you'll still have plenty of groomed and ungroomed expanses of snow to enjoy on your skis.

    • 4

      Visit Wolf Creek State Park in the winter months to enjoy the hiking trails which are converted to skiing trails. Of particular interest should be a 15-mile trail which will take you past beautiful woodland vistas where you might catch a peek at some wildlife in their natural habitat! But be warned, shotgun hunting is allowed during some months of the year. Check with the park ranger and take those warning signs seriously to avoid potential danger.

    • 5

      Take it easy and enjoy a couple of the more modest parks in Illinois, such as White Pines Forest or Argyle Lake State Park. Both of these sites feature short, manageable trails that are appropriate for beginner to intermediate skiers. You'll have a relaxing day in a beautiful nature setting when you ski these parks.