Backcountry Nordic on the Jack Rabbit Trail

Come join me on an Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Nordic backcountry outing on the Jack Rabbit Trail.

Registration with the AMC is required: Jack Rabbit Trail BC Nordic

The iconic Jack Rabbit backcountry ski trail is outside of Lake Placid. We'll do the section as an out-and-back for 7 miles total.

Since we’ll be off the groomed track, light touring or backcountry skis with metal edges are required, as is a backpack to carry your lunch and other essentials necessary in the backcountry. You should be comfortable handling hills, skiing through ungroomed/variable snow, and possibly breaking a little trail. It’s going to be a great full day in the woods!

Required Gear & Skills for BC XC:

• Solid expert resort XC skills: Backcountry trails can be much steeper and narrower than resort blacks. They are ungroomed (or even unbroken) and may contain unbridged stream crossings, blowdowns, and other backcountry hazards.
• Backcountry cross-country gear: BC XC skis with metal edges are required, with a backcountry boot and backcountry binding (for example: Fischer Traverse 78 Crown). Skins are highly recommended.
• Layered winter clothing suitable for temps in the single digits: Wicking base-layer top and bottom; insulating top layer (usually fleece); windbreaker/softshell jacket; insulated water-resistant pants; waterproof shell pants and jacket; big puffy jacket; warm and water-resistant gloves and mittens (two pair); face protection; winter hat; headlamp; gaiters; chemical hand and foot warmers.