The Subaru Ski Fest 2000, presented by the automaker and Nature Valley Granola Bars, hopes to teach families the joy of cross-country skiing together. Aimed at making the Nordic experience a positive one, the lessons will take place on groomed trails emphasizing proper technique. Shanty Creek's Barry Godwin, vice-president of the council, said that by offering beginner lessons they hope to encourage family participation by skiers with little or no experience. We'll teach them the basics of the sport, and hopefully they will have fun and want to continue the experience. In addition to the free lessons and trail passes, many members are also offering complimentary trail picnics, and the members with lodging have created special lodging packages for the weekend.
Families have to call ahead to the facility of their choice and register for the free lesson.
Ski and Feast, another favorite, is slated for Sunday, March 31. Skiers can ski for their supper, brunch or lunch and enjoy trailside favorites such as Shanty Creek's famous Trailhead Pasties complimented by a hot cauldron of soup, or Lakeside Hills Nordic Resort's chunky white chili. There's even lake trout prepared trailside at Garland. The trail passes are purchased from the member resort you wish to visit. A Big Mac and a ride For the eighth year in a row, Michigan ski areas have teamed up with McDonald's restaurants to offer an affordable introduction to the sport of skiing and snowboarding.