Bear Valley Cross Country Ski-O'
January 25, 1998

Last year was our first year at Bear Valley, a major cross-country ski area. This year we will have a similar format, with four courses to accommodate beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers. In Ski-O, the controls are on trails, so the navigation is not technical. All levels of orienteers are welcome. The challenge comes primarily from route choice and rapid map reading. For people new to cross-country skiing, you can take professional lessons on Saturday, or learn from your orienteering friends. Cross-country skiing is an easy sport in which to get started, and rental equipment will be available.

The following are the tentative stats for the courses, giving skied (not point to point) distances:

White           3 km       Beginner skiers
Short           4 km       Beginner skiers
Medium          9 km       Intermediate skiers
Long           12 km       Advanced skiers

There are places to stay in Bear Valley or other towns if you want to spend the weekend. Other activities available include downhill skiing, back-country skiing, ice skating, snow-shoeing, and sledding.

Bear Valley is located at the top of Highway 4 just before Mt. Reba. Parking for cross-country is on the north side of the highway. A trail pass will be required.

For more information about the orienteering event, contact me at 650-327-8231, or michaelpoulsenkennedyjenks.com.

For more information about Bear Valley, check out http://www.adventuresports.com/asap/ski/bearvaly.htm

-- Mike Poulsen


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