Hardwick Trails Offers Free Ski Group Lessons and Equipment Loans
by Helen Beattie
Community Journalist
HARDWICK – The Hardwick Trails Committee is gearing up for our cross-country ski season. Once there is a snow base, the trails network will be groomed regularly and open to all community members.
The committee asks walkers and snowshoers to avoid the ski tracks, which are created for classic skiers.
The trails committee is upgrading the equipment loan inventory, thanks to the Prevot Family Foundation and the recreation committee. Loans of snowshoes or skis (classic or skate), boots and poles are available to community members of any age on Saturday mornings between 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Short-term equipment loans are available or there is a weekend loan option.
Free Saturday morning ski group lessons for Hardwick area community members will be offered starting January 14 (snow dependent). Experienced instructors will share their love of skiing with those who are new to the sport or would like to improve their skills. Both Maxfield English and Emily Willems are Hazen Union teachers with significant coaching experience.
Classic ski lessons will start at 9:15 a.m., and skate skiing at 10:15 a.m., behind Hazen Union at the log cabin. For those who wish to borrow equipment for a lesson, arrive 15 minutes early to be fully outfitted. Young children must be accompanied by an adult. Family participation is encouraged
Lessons may be canceled due to adverse weather or trail conditions. Check the Hardwick Trails Facebook page by 8:30 a.m., on the morning of the lesson for notice of cancellation.
The goal of the Hardwick Trails and Recreation committees is to increase the number of people using the trails during the upcoming winter months, and ensure that access to equipment is not a barrier.
