When it comes to winter sports in Park City, downhill skiing might steal the spotlight, but for those looking to explore this cute mountain town at a different pace, cross-country skiing (a.k.a. Nordic or XC skiing) is the perfect alternative. Park City is home to miles of groomed private and public cross-country trails. Your options range from flat fields, rolling hills, to bike paths with a layer of groomed snow on top. Many trails are adjacent to Park City landmarks—there’s something for every level of skier. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned vet looking to level up your skills, a guided cross country ski tour in Park City is a great way to experience the sport without the guesswork. 

Classic vs. Skate Skiing: Which One is Right for You

Cross-country skiing comes in two primary techniques: classic and skate skiing.

Classic skiing follows a straight, parallel track and mimics a natural walking or forward gliding motion. It’s generally easier to learn and ideal for beginners who want a self-paced endurance-based workout. If you’re looking for a smooth, meditative experience or an introduction to cross country skiing, classic is a great place to start.

Skate skiing, on the other hand, is more dynamic and resembles ice skating with a V-shaped push-off motion. It requires more balance, coordination, and strength but allows for faster speeds and a more intense workout. If you enjoy a challenge and are looking for a high-energy cardiovascular workout, skate skiing might be the better fit. Many guided tours offer both styles, so you can choose based on your fitness level and goals.

Trust a guide to show you the way!

White Pine Touring

If you're looking for the ultimate Park City cross country skiing experience, White Pine Touring is the place to start. With their own Nordic Center featuring groomed trails right out their back door, they offer lessons and tours for all ability levels.

I recently joined Art, one of White Pine’s seasoned guides, for a skate skiing tour that took us from their Nordic Center to the historic White Barn. Art is a Park City legend, having lived and worked in Park City for decades, he knew everyone on the trail and was able to give me and my friend coaching tips that significantly improved our speed and efficiency while skiing—a bonus to our tour as neither of us expected a lesson.

The route from the White Pine Touring Nordic Center to the Historic White Barn started with smooth, flat terrain just across the street from the White Pine Touring Nordic Center—ideal terrain for warming up—before transitioning into fun, rolling hills near the barn. The White Barn itself is an iconic Park City landmark, originally built as part of the McPolin Farm in the 1920s. Now preserved by the city, it stands as a scenic backdrop for winter adventures.

Whether you opt for classic or skate skiing White Pine Touring has rentals available for both options, White Pine’s guides will help you dial in your technique while sharing local knowledge about Park City’s rich skiing and mining history.

Why Take a Guided Cross Country Ski Tour

If you're new to cross-country skiing, a guided tour is the best way to get started. Here’s why:

  1. No experience needed—your guide will teach you the basics, from balancing on skis to efficient gliding techniques.
  2. Local knowledge—guides know the best trails for your ability level and can adjust routes based on conditions, skill levels, and daily objectives.
  3. Hassle-free adventure—no need to worry about logistics like trail maps or rental gear, your outfitter has you covered!

All Seasons Adventures

For a customizable cross country skiing experience, All Seasons Adventures offers guided tours that cater to your ability level and fitness, they only match your tour with others within the same ability levels/goals, making most of their tours private. Their guides will take you to some of Park City's best trails, whether that means a leisurely ski through scenic fields or a more challenging excursion into the Uinta Mountains.

All Seasons Adventures is perfect for families, groups, or even solo adventurers looking for a personalized experience. Never skied before? No problem. Their instructors will get you skiing with confidence in no time. All Seasons Adventures is an excellent choice for those who desire a more personalized and flexible experience. Their focus on flexibility and individual attention ensures that everyone can enjoy a memorable and rewarding skiing adventure.

You can't beat the views from Park City's miles and miles of Nordic track!

Wasatch Adventure Guides

If you're looking for a private group tour Wasatch Adventure Guides offer cross country ski tours that range from local Park City trails to half-day excursions in the Uinta Mountains. Their tours are designed to match your skill level, whether you're looking for an easy introduction to cross country or a more immersive winter backcountry experience in the Uintas. The Uinta tour features aspen groves and fresh mountain air, with lunch served afterward at the Samak Smokehouse.

Ready to Hit the Trails

Cross-country skiing is not just an incredible winter workout—it’s also a fun, social, and scenic way to experience Park City in the winter. Whether you're learning the basics on White Pine’s groomed trails, customizing a tour with All Seasons Adventures, or heading into the Uintas with Wasatch Adventure Guides, there’s a perfect cross country skiing tour waiting for you.

So, bundle up, clip into your skis, and get ready to explore Park City, Utah!

More Adventures in Park City

Things to Do and Winter Adventures

How to Spend a Winter Day off the Slope

A Personal Story About Leaning How to Nordic Ski