Current Issue
#44.2 | 2025 Photo Annual
We celebrate huge vistas, the grit of athletic achievement, a throwback ski race and one very cute pup in this collection of images from some of our favorite lenspeople. Immerse yourself in these photos of wintry splendor, then head outside to your own favorite Nordic landscape.
Inside the Issue âș
Features
Page 46
Photo Annual
We celebrate huge vistas, the grit of athletic achievement, a throwback ski race and one very cute pup in this collection of images from some of our favorite lenspeople. Immerse yourself in these photos of wintry splendor, then head outside to your own favorite Nordic landscape.
Image by Nicolas Joly
Page 64
Come for the Lights, Stay for the Skiing
Solar activity is at a peak now, which means northern lights viewing is at an all-time high. Combine sky gazing with kicking and gliding in Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska. Just donât forget the extra layers.
Words by Lisa Maloney | Image by Mike Still
Page 72
Carnival Spirit
When the Eastern Intercollegiate Ski Associationâs race season launches, the stakes are high for both the competition and the hijinks afterward. Sure, there are future Olympians and current World Cuppers, but there are also epic tailgating, zany costumes and Ben Ogdenâs barbecue truck.
Words by Peggy Shinn | Images by Steve Fuller
Mass Start
Page 13
Editorâs Note
Goodbye but Not Farewell
Page 14
Wax Box
Page 16
Essays
Jayme Moye finds awe, Nicolas Joly pursues a lifelong dream and Ellen Hollinshead turns a so-so day into gliding euphoria.
The Skinny
Page 22
Safety in Numbers
Coloradoâs Bryan Mountain Nordic Ski Patrol has been helping cross country skiers at Nordic centers and in the backcountry for 50 years, thanks to the strong community thatâs evolved among patrollers.
Page 24
Back to the Future
Whatâs old is new again as U.S. Nordic combined athletes must once again fund their sport after an organizational split with U.S. ski jumpers.
Page 28
Navigating the Transition
What happens when high-level athletes retire from competition? One skier and researcher set out to learn more about the aftermath.
Page 30
Overland: Tracks Through Time
After learning about a World War II sabotage mission in Norway, one writer retraced the rugged ski route that the secret operatives forged.
Destination
Page 38
A Perfect Pair
Northern Vermontâs Jay Peak and southern Quebecâs Plein air Sutton deliver a top-notch, two-in-one Nordic experience.
Words and images by Jesse Huffman
The Final Stretch
Page 82
Inside Line
A look at how Nordic bindings have evolved into an essential component of ski performance.
Page 84
Gear Bag
A slew of apparel and accessoriesâtights, gloves, sunglasses and more.
Page 94
Perspective
College president and masterâs biathlete Scott Thomas explains why Nordic skiing is essential to his well-being.
Page 96
Classics
Ashcroft Ski Touring in Aspen, Colorado, offers jaw-dropping vistas and creature comforts in a valley that skiers have explored for almost 100 years.
Page 98
Photo Finish
Cross country skiers come to life in this unique artwork.
The Journal of Nordic Skiing