Category Archives: X-C Skiing

Snow is inconsistent in these globally-warmed parts, so there is no commercial XC skiing (with groomed trails) anywhere within hours. But if we get 8″ or more of snow-cover (which often happens at least once or twice each winter), you’ll find folks making their own tracks on local hiking trails and tow-paths…

Communing with Einstein (The Institute Pond and Woods)

Little known, but open to the public, is a lovely pond and woods on the campus of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, about a 20 minute drive north of Trenton. The pond supports solid populations of fish. It abuts the Institute Woods, which is transected by old woods roads which can be used as hiking trails (and cross-country skiing if there’s been a good snow fall) (Driving time is about 20 minutes; rated for Beginner hikers. Trails are flat and easy walking, though poorly marked. Be sure to bring a trail map).


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Canal Cycling Jaunt (D&R Canal State Park/D&R Greenway Land Trust)

Riding a bicycle, walking the dog, or XC skiing in the winter, are all things you can do along the towpath of this superb “linear park”, which (with a few interruptions) connects Frenchtown to New Brunswick. It’s an easy ride on a MTB or hybrid, a bit more challenging (due to the occasional loose hard-pack) on a full-out road bike.


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School, Old (Tyler State Park)

Tyler is an old school park. Yes, there’s some nature. You can hike, but mostly on paved or gravel paths. More to the point (and why it seems “old school” to me) it’s really about “activities”. Depending on the season you might find yourself riding a horse, paddling a canoe, playing “golf” with a Frisbee, swimming, fishing, cycling, sledding, or x-country skiing. (Driving time is about 25 mintues; as a hiking destination it’s rated for beginners)


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