Cross Country Skiing

1. Complete an Assumption of Risk Form.
2. Check the weather forecast for the location. Set aside the appropriate equipment and clothing for the predicted temperature and conditions.
3. Review the meeting location address and directions.

• Cold weather gear (hat, gloves, scarf, etc.)
• Waterproof/breathable jacket
• Non-cotton long underwear
• Ski, snow, or rain pants (jeans or sweatpants are not recommended)
• Wool or non-cotton socks

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time for check in. This gives the Trip Leaders enough time to collect Assumption of Risk Forms and start the trip on time.

Venture Outdoors provides multiple directions for accessing the meeting location including GPS coordinates, closest address, Google map link, and driving directions from Pittsburgh. Please review these directions in advance and plan your route to allow ample time for travel and onsite preparation. The Trip Leaders’ cellphone numbers are provided as a courtesy, but they may not be available by phone during check-in. Any necessary contact should be made at least 30 minutes before the trip begins. It is the participant’s responsibility to arrive at the meeting location 15 minutes prior to the start time. Please arrive early as trips cannot be delayed for late arrivals.

Trip Leaders make every attempt to plan routes that include bathroom stops at or near the meeting location or during the trip. The type and availability of facility depends on the time of year and location. Urban settings and many parks offer flush toilets or port-a-johns. Some locations do not have bathroom facilities and participants are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles when going in the woods. The Trip Leader will share specifics about bathroom facilities at the beginning of the outing, and details are often provided in the pre-trip information sheet.

Cross country skiing depends on proper snow conditions. Venture Outdoors staff decide the day before the outing whether there is likely to be enough snow. If not, the Trip Leader may offer a hike instead. Participants who participate in the hike will receive a refund for the difference. Those who opt out will receive a full refund.

Yes, cross county ski trips will be canceled if the forecast calls for rains and above freezing temperatures. If the Trip Leader determines that outing conditions exceed the group’s comfort level, the trip may be canceled. If this decision is made during regular office hours (9 AM – 5 PM, Monday-Friday), staff will call/email participants. If the decision is made outside of regular office hours Trip Leaders and on-call staff try to decide at least two hours in advance. Weather is variable and the Trip Leader may opt to cancel the outing at the trailhead or make modifications during the trip.

If the Trip Leader determines that trip conditions exceed the group’s comfort level, the trip may be cancelled. If this decision can be made during regular office hours (9 AM -5 PM, Monday-Friday), participants will be called and emailed by staff. If the decision is made outside of regular office hours the Trip Leaders and on-call staff try to decide at least two hours in advance. Weather is variable and the Trip Leader may opt to cancel the outing at the trailhead or make modifications during the trip.