Oregon Nordic Club

Nordic Trails

The aim of many of our trips is to have enjoyably challenging experiences along with other skiers on winter backcountry trips. Since there is inherent risk in what we do, it is the responsibility of each of us to participate in a thoughtful and intelligent way, matching the trips we participate in to our skill level, and using each trip as an opportunity to improve our skiing and navigation skills and our ability to assess snow safety conditions.

Trip descriptions, maps and trip reports are not intended to provide adequate information for independent travel; and the Oregon Nordic Club does not recommend such use of the information on this site. Many of the trails shown are in backcountry areas and may be unmarked and unpatrolled. Navigation in winter conditions can be surprisingly difficult. Thoughtful consideration should be given to the advantages of making trips with experienced group leaders who have local knowledge of terrain and snow conditions.

The tours are of varying length and difficulty. Skill levels applied to touring are:
A – Easy: Trips require basic skills and the traversing of a few miles on largely level terrain.
B – Intermediate: Entry level backcountry trips, distances extend to 10+ miles, moderate hills are encountered and the accumulated elevation gain for the trip can exceed 1000 feet
C – Advanced: Mid-level backcountry trips with added elevation gain, frequent steep terrain and extended time “on the skis”.
D – Expert: Backcountry and high terrain skiing, best described as professionally challenging with substantial difficult terrain and long distances entailed.

Avalanches are always a possibility in backcountry Nordic activities so be sure to research conditions thoroughly before you attempt any backcountry activities. For the Pacific NW area you can visit the Northwest Avalanche Center forecasts.  If you have any question about the day’s snow safety / avalanche conditions, it is wise to await better conditions. The mountains will always be there.

For further information, see the Nordic Safety page.

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