Cross-country Skiing

Rick Kelly tells the following story about a day trip on the Main Range - part of a cross-country ski trip in September 1986. "On 11 Sept, and a day of mixed weather - Warner, Stuart and Rick set off from Orona Ski Club in North Perisher. We had maps, compass, a bit of survival gear, lunch and cross-country skis. First we headed up to Blue Cow and then down a long run into Guthega. We then headed west crossing Form Creek and following the Snowy to Illawong Hut. Here we had morning tea with Paddy Pallin! From the hut we crossed the Snowy and skied on beautiful snow up Twynan Creek valley then to Twynan. The weather closed in and visibility became nil. We headed carefully down to Blue Lake where we had lunch in a snow cave. Visibility improved a little as we worked our way down to the river and up to Charlotte's Pass. From the Pass we followed the snow-covered road back to Perisher. We enjoyed the trip - it was plenty long enough for one day as we had left at 8am and got back to the Lodge by 5pm."

Skiing as a Club activity was revived in September 2001. Chris Cuthbert tells of "a 'not to be forgotten' week as it coincided with the collapse of the World Trade Center! Fourteen club members stayed at Eagles Range for 5 days. Eagles Range is a unique 300 acre high country farm about 12 kilometres from Jindabyne. It is very reasonably priced and offers fully catered delicious meals or self catering in an adjacent chalet. Needless to say we all indulged ourselves with Eve's home cooking! With stunning views of the Snowy Mountains it is a great place to stay.

"The idea of the week was for people to enjoy the snow whether by skiing down hill or cross-country, snow shoeing or just being there. The week began with a morning cross country skiing lesson for those wishing to give it a go or revive some past downhill skiing skills. We mainly skied the groomed trails at Perisher as they were in good condition with excellent snow coverage. Four great days were enjoyed around the trails with the final day up to Porcupine Lookout and across the Mount Wheatley Link. Skiing skills are now ready for a more adventurous time next year!

"Snow shoeing was also popular and offers people the opportunity to walk on the snow and enjoy the mountains. An intrepid trio almost climbed Mt Wheatley!"