FEATURES

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Photo Annual
We celebrate huge vistas, the grit of athletic achievement, a throwback ski race and one very cute pup in this collection of images from some of our favorite lenspeople. Immerse yourself in these photos of wintry splendor, then head outside to your own favorite Nordic landscape.

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Come for the Lights, Stay for the Skiing
Solar activity is at a peak now, which means northern lights viewing is at an all-time high. Combine sky gazing with kicking and gliding in Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska. Just don’t forget the extra layers.

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Carnival Spirit
When the Eastern Intercollegiate Ski Association’s race season launches, the stakes are high for both the competition and the hijinks afterward. Sure, there are future Olympians and current World Cuppers, but there are also epic tailgating, zany costumes and Ben Ogden’s barbecue truck.

MASS START

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Editor’s Note
Goodbye but Not Farewell

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Wax Box

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Essays
Jayme Moye finds awe, Nicolas Joly pursues a lifelong dream and Ellen Hollinshead turns a so-so day into gliding euphoria.

THE SKINNY

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Safety in Numbers
Colorado’s Bryan Mountain Nordic Ski Patrol has been helping cross country skiers at Nordic centers and in the backcountry for 50 years, thanks to the strong community that’s evolved among patrollers.

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Back to the Future
What’s old is new again as U.S. Nordic combined athletes must once again fund their sport after an organizational split with U.S. ski jumpers.

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Navigating the Transition
What happens when high-level athletes retire from competition? One skier and researcher set out to learn more about the aftermath.

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Overland: Tracks Through Time
After learning about a World War II sabotage mission in Norway, one writer retraced the rugged ski route that the secret operatives forged.

DESTINATION

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A Perfect Pair
Northern Vermont’s Jay Peak and southern Quebec’s Plein air Sutton deliver a top-notch, two-in-one Nordic experience.

THE FINAL STRETCH

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Inside Line
A look at how Nordic bindings have evolved into an essential component of ski performance.

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Gear Bag
A slew of apparel and accessories—tights, gloves, sunglasses and more.

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Perspective
College president and master’s biathlete Scott Thomas explains why Nordic skiing is essential to his well-being.

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Classics
Ashcroft Ski Touring in Aspen, Colorado, offers jaw-dropping vistas and creature comforts in a valley that skiers have explored for almost 100 years.

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Photo Finish
Cross country skiers come to life in this unique artwork.