With the holiday season nearly in full swing, it’s tempting to hunker down indoors to finish decorating, prepping for guests or making holiday goodies. Don’t forget time to gift yourself, family and friends with a dose of fresh, winter air. From skiing to tubing and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Maple Grove’s Elm Creek Park Reserve.
To get the season started, Elm Creek will host its annual Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. December 7. Mark your calendars for this kickoff event at Elm Creek’s Winter Recreation Area. There will be free skiing, rental equipment and mini lessons, everything you need to start your winter off right. Follow the ski tours to explore the trails or head over to the Nordic Ski Expo to stock up on the latest gear. All ages and abilities are encouraged to attend.
Once you’re winter ready, consider the following outdoor activities.
Cross-Country Skiing:
Explore the path less traveled and surround yourself with the beautiful scenery that envelopes the 18.3K of cross-country trails. It’s a low impact workout that’s great for family bonding and spending time outdoors.
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding:
Outfitted with smaller training hills, Elm Creek is perfect for a new skier. Teach the young ones a new skill, or make it a new experience for the whole family. For more advanced hills, head over to Hyland Hills Ski Area.
Tubing:
Sit back, relax and slide! Perfect for all ages and skill-sets, tubing provides a range of laid-back lanes to steeper chutes in order to keep all members of your family entertained.
Sledding:
Sometimes the simplest form of fun is the best. Take part in this traditional winter activity at a number of hills in Elm Creek’s Winter Recreation Area.
Information for clubs, lessons, annual passes and rental is available at threeriverspark.org.
Elm Creek Park Reserve
12400 James Dean Parkway, Maple Grove
763.694.7894
Facebook: Elm Creek Park Reserve - Three Rivers Park District
Instagram: @elmcreekterrainpark
Twitter: @ElmCreekPark
