Cross-country skiing with kids – here's how it works!

Basically, skiing on cross-country skis is recommended starting at the age of four. However, you know your children best – irrespective of their age, each child is different in terms of coordination and fitness. So you decide when it's time for you to hit the trail together. You start on the classic trail, as the movement of classic cross-country skiing is very similar to walking. If your children are already able to inline skate or ice skate confidently, you can also try skating right away (general recommendation otherwise starts at around 8 years old).

Right equipment = half the battle! The numerous rental stations definitely have the right equipment ready for you. Competent advisors on-site will provide you with up-to-date cross-country skiing shoes, skis, and poles.

When it comes to the right outfit, the layering principle applies: The layered look is a hit in cross-country skiing – not only for adults but also for your children! “Layer up” according to the weather while ensuring you have the necessary freedom of movement – Michelin men are rather impractical on the cross-country ski trail!

The network of trails in the region is virtually endless – in the most positive sense 😉 However, it is important to make the right choice for your shared adventure. Not too steep, not too long, not too strenuous, but also not too boring. There are many factors to consider in order to avoid ending up in the mentioned horror scenario. One thing is clear: a exciting environment, stops for refreshment, and the possibility to shorten (or also lengthen) the tours were 3 factors that should definitely be taken into account.

I claim: Hungry children (and adults 😉) are the most unbearable thing on earth! Blood sugar takes a trip to nirvana, and with it, the mood suddenly drops to rock bottom. To prevent this from happening, please always remember to bring along one or two mood-boosting snacks in your bags. Also, of course, a stop at the rest areas along the trail is a must. With full energy reserves, it just feels easier to run!

No one wants to hear this sentence. Therefore, the rule is: once you arrive at the trail, one thing is clearly in focus: Play & Fun! The endless kilometers of trails can understandably be far from fun for adventurous kids – no matter how breathtaking the beautiful winter landscape around is. Pack a small ball, a Frisbee, or a cloth, and you'll be on the safe side. What provides action at the beach in summer is also a hit on cross-country skis in winter: Catching, Cross-country soccer, Hockey, etc. are real mood boosters. Additionally, this subtly trains balance, coordination, and ski handling! Speaking of the beach: Building "sandcastles" is also possible in the snow and can be just as much a part of your cross-country day!

Tip: Good Company! If you have the opportunity to go cross-country skiing with other families, don't hesitate (maybe even in a joint cross-country course?)! It's well known that children enjoy everything even more when other kids are involved. And suddenly, everything goes like clockwork!

Just like in daily life - give yourselves and your children plenty of room for "imperfectness" on the slope too. As the saying goes - no master has fallen from heaven. In truth, it’s about much more than just perfect technique or the kilometers skied. It’s about your quality time as a family. It’s about laughing together and having fun in the fresh air - and creating such valuable memories for life!

Good Mood Tip: If your day doesn’t go as planned for any reason, we suggest following Oscar Wilde: "After a good meal, one can forgive anybody, even one’s own relatives." Treat yourselves and simply try again the next day!