The following is my selection of guidebooks I've found on cross country
skiing in the United States.
If you have any suggestions or see a subject missing,
please send me a message.
-- Dan Anderson
Snow Sense: A Guide to Evaluating Snow Avalanche Hazard
5th ed.
(1999)
by Jill Fredston & Doug Fesler
If you ski backcountry, you need this book.
Not because you want to be in avalanches,
but because you want to avoid them and want
to know what to do if you ever get caught.
This book is written by avalanche experts and
used by pros.
A small book, but packed with essential information.
Avalanche Safety for Skiers, Climbers & Snowboarders
(1999)
This book has more detail than Snow Sense, yet doesn't
put you to sleep like The Avalanche Handbook does.
Avalanche Safety is packed with illustrations and
practical advice.
The Cross Country Ski, Cook, Look, & Pleasure Book
2d ed.(1998)
by Hal Painter.
A good subtitle would be Zen and the Art of Cross Country Skiing.
A great classic from the 1970's, which really captures the spirit
of cross country skiing.
The Essential Cross-Country Skier: A Step-By-Step Guide
(1999)
by Lovett, Peterson, & Morton.
Good guide for beginners who want to get started quickly.
Covers clothing, gear,
skating, telemark, backcountry, & racing techniques, and maintenance.
Backcountry Skier
(1998)
by Jean Vives.
Book on technique, condition, and nutrition for skiing beyond the roads.
Cross-Country Skiing for Everyone
(1998)
by Jules Older.
Good book for the casual cross country skiier
with tips on technique, gear, conditioning, and ski centers.
Good for those who don't take the sport too seriously and want to have fun.
Skier's Caution! Skiing can be dangerous!
These books aren't a substitute for your own common sense.
Don't use these books unless you are willing to take personal responsibility for your own safety.
When skiing, be aware of hazards from inclement weather, ice, and hidden obstacles (such as holes, trees, streams, and rocks).
Prepare yourself--bring proper gear, be fit, and obtain sufficient training and experience appropriate for the ski tour.
Take part in a regular conditioning program and professional ski instruction--this will increase your enjoyment of skiing.
Nothing in these books grants the right to trespass over private land.
Cross Country Ski Bookstore
