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Cross country skiing is a fun outdoor winter activity, perfect for fresh air and exercise too. The good news is, there are many places to cross-country ski in Des Moines!
So, whether you’re an experienced skier or want to give it a try, you have options. In this article, we’ll cover the best places to go cross country skiing, area ski rentals, and more!
What is cross country skiing (Nordic skiing)?
Cross country skiing, or XC skiing, is using skis to propel yourself across snowy terrain. Downhill skiing relies on gravity to move you forward, but XC skiing is on flatter terrain. You use a walking/striding technique (classic) or skating motion (skate), and your arms and/or poles thrust you forward.
Equipment for cross country skiing includes skis, poles, and boots. The skis are shorter and heavier than downhill skis, and only the toe of the boot gets attached to the ski.
You can use trails groomed for xc skiing or go off-trail for an adventure. Most xc skiing is done over mostly level terrain and is easier on groomed trails.
If you’ve never used skis, it might take some practice to perfect your technique. There are lots of online tutorials to help you, or you could take lessons. But it won’t take long before you’re ready to get out there and go!
Where to rent cross country skis in Des Moines
Jester Park Recreation and Wellness Center (Polk Co. Conservation)
Jester Park rents cross-country skis for adults for half-day increments. And you can call ahead to make reservations (515-323-5330)! (They also rent snowshoes!)
Active Endeavors
Active Endeavors has one and two-day rentals. Rentals include skis, poles, and boots. You can call them at (515)226-9345 or visit their website for more information. (They also rent snowshoes!)
Dallas County Conservation
Ski rentals at Voas Nature Area are available when there’s enough snow (and staff availability). The fee is $3 each to rent skis, poles, and boots, with instructions when needed. Sign up with Dallas Co. Conservation to get notified when ski rentals are available. Call 515-465-3577 or email conservation@dallascountyiowa.gov. And be sure to follow their Facebook page for up-to-date information.
JAX Ames Outdoor Gear
JAX rents a variety of outdoor gear, including nordic skis, poles, and boots. Check with the store for availability.
Cost to rent skis
Ski rentals range from $3-28, depending on where you go and how long you use the ski equipment.
Interested in snowshoeing near Des Moines? Check out
Snowshoeing in Des Moines: Find the best trails, rent snowshoes, and more!
Where to cross country ski in Des Moines
You can use groomed trails or explore off-trail on XC skis. Bike trails that don’t get plowed are great for skiing, and of course, groomed trails are often ideal. Some golf courses also allow cross country skiers when there’s enough snow.
The Des Moines Nordic Club Facebook page is an excellent resource for trail conditions. Many members report their experiences and which trails get groomed. It’s a must-follow page if you’re interested in cross-country skiing in the Des Moines area.
Jester Park
Jester Park has several miles (6+) of groomed cross-country ski trails! Easy and moderate routes are available – see the snow ski trail map here. There must be at least 6 inches of snow before trails get groomed. Trailheads are at the Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center and Campground Registration.
Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt
Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt has flat, easy groomed XC ski trails that run the length of the park. All routes start at the campground – see the snow ski trail map here. There must be at least 6 inches of snow before trails get groomed.
Big Creek State Park
Most years, Big Creek State Park has a groomed trail loop near the disc golf course (on the park’s east side). See the park map for details, and check the Des Moines Nordic Club page for updates.
East River Valley Park/Carr Woods, Ames
The City of Ames grooms XC trails at East River Valley Park. For details, see the Ames Parks and Rec Facebook page and the trail map.
Here are more suggestions for where to cross country ski in Central Iowa:
- Maffitt Lake
- Gay Lea Wilson Trail
- Great Western Trail
- Voas Nature Area
- Kuehn Conservation
- Chichaqua Valley Trail
- Raccoon River Valley Trail
- Annett Nature Center
- Whiterock Conservancy
- Middle River Park
- (Cross country skiing coming soon to Sleepy Hollow Sports Park!)
Tips for an excellent cross-country ski adventure
Wear layers!
It may be cold outside, but when you’re hitting the trails, you will work up a sweat! Cross-country skiing is a full-body workout. So, dress for the cold temps and remove layers when you get hot. The best way to prepare is to wear the appropriate layers and stay dry!
Take water.
It’s best to have water at all times – and maybe a snack too! XC skiing burns a ton of calories and will probably make you sweat!
Go with a group.
As with any other outdoor activity, there’s safety in numbers. Going with a small group ensures that, in case of an emergency, you get help faster. That said, if you plan to head out on your own, make sure you tell someone where you’re going and when to expect your return.
Learn more about cross-country skiing
- Instructional video from REI
- Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness (book)
- Basic Illustrated Cross-Country Skiing (book)
