The Swellesley Report

Since 2005: More than you really want to know about Wellesley, Mass.

Where to cross-country ski in Wellesley (and beyond)

Cross-country skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter scenery and get some exercise. The popular winter sport offers a variety of benefits for both the body and the mind. Here are a few reasons why people enjoy cross-country skiing:

  • Exercise: Cross-country skiing is a great way to get exercise. It is a low-impact activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Cross-country skiing works out the entire body, including the heart, lungs, and muscles. It is also a great way to burn calories and lose weight.
  • Nature: Cross-country skiing allows people to enjoy the beauty of nature. It is a great way to get outside and explore new places. Cross-country skiing can be done in a variety of settings, from groomed trails to backcountry forests.
  • Socialization: Cross-country skiing is a great way to socialize. It is a great activity to do with friends or family. Cross-country skiing can also be a great way to meet new people.
  • Challenge: Cross-country skiing can be a challenging sport. It requires both physical and mental strength. Cross-country skiing can be a great way to push yourself and set new goals.
  • Fun: Cross-country skiing is simply fun! It is a great way to get outside and enjoy the winter weather. Cross-country skiing can be a great way to relieve stress and have some fun.

Where to cross-country ski in under an hour from Wellesley Square

Elm Bank Reservation
900 Washington St., Wellesley, MA
Beautiful trails along the Charles River.
A few minutes from Wellesley Square.
Trails are not groomed. There’s no snow making. And it’s free.

Nordic skiing, Wellesley
We park in the small lot across the road from this darling cottage on the Elm Bank property. The home is a private residence, but the lot is available to Elm Bank visitors.

 

Elm Bank Reservation, cross country skiing
Here’s where we enter the trails. As this is not an official cross country skiing destination, don’t expect bathrooms, or a warming hut, or signage. It’s just you and the snow and the trails. We love it here.

Weston Ski Track
190 Park Road
Weston, MA, 02493
617-965-5110
Distance from Wellesley Square: 10 minutes
Trails are groomed. Snow making.
When natural snow comes down, groomed trails that do not benefit from artificial snowmaking open up on the other side of the road.

Weston Ski Track is a cross-country ski and snowshoe center located on the Leo J. Martin Golf Course. Snow guns keep track covered as long as temps allow. Track is easily accessible to the Boston area. The Ski Track grooms 15 kilometers of trails and lights a two-kilometer loop for night skiing. This is a family-friendly area with lots of support and teaching for beginner skiers and snowshoers. Trails passes & equipment rentals available.

Great Brook Farm State Park
1018 Lowell Street
Carlisle, MA 01741
Trails are groomed. No snow making.
Distance from Wellesley Square: 45 minutes

The Department of Conservation & Recreation maintains over 10 miles of machine-groomed trails for cross country skiing on the property of the 1,000-acre Great Brook Farm State Park, which is about 45 minutes from Wellesley Square. From Dec. 1 to March 20, snow conditions permitting, those 10 miles of trails are set aside for skiing only. There is no snow-making equipment at the popular spot, so make sure you check Great Brook’s Facebook page ahead of time for the latest report on trails conditions.

Great Brook has a large rental inventory with skis in every size, as well as snowshoes and pull sleds for pulling children. Machine-groomed trails require a paid trail pass to access.

Great Brook Ski Touring Center, Carlisle
Great Brook Ski Touring Center, Carlisle. Winter 2022
     

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