The Outdoor Recreation Center (ORC) is hosting its first drop-in cross country skiing and fat tire bike event with free rentals for NMU students on Fridays Jan. 24, Feb. 7 and Feb. 21 at the NTN Forestville Trailhead.
“The whole purpose is to try to get students out of the dorms, out of their houses, and get them outside,” said Adam Fancher, assistant director of Recreational Programs and Experiences. “[To] make sure they know they can rent cross-country skis and fat tire bikes for free out of the Forestville Trailhead.”
When students arrive at the trailhead, they will be greeted by the rec sports team outside the main lodge who will guide them to the designated area for renting equipment. Students will be shown the rental process and trailhead layout and then be able to hit the trails on their own or with an experienced team member to guide them. Students also have the opportunity to choose the trail loops they go on.
The items necessary for cross country skiing and fat tire biking are provided, and students are encouraged to wear layers and to bring water to this event.
All students are encouraged to participate in this event whether or not they have prior experience.
“Cross country skiing is not downhill skiing. You’re not being pushed into a big downhill. Sure, there [are] little, tiny hills and stuff. They kind of make people giggle,” Fancher said. “Bring some friends so you can laugh and have a good time with them.”
This event will kick off the recreation department’s winter events, and their main goal is to get students active in the environment while giving them experiences they may not have in post-college life.
“Now is the time in your life to try new things. You never want to look back and think, I wish I would have tried more,” Fancher said.