As a senior at Carleton, it’s hard to believe that my first time ever cross-country skiing in the Arb was just last week. I’m not sure why it took me so long to try it out, especially as someone who loves spending time out in the Arb. Cross-country skiing is easily the most effective way to enjoy the beauty of the Arb in the winter. But, at the request of my friends, for the first time in my four years at Carleton, I ventured out into the Arb on skis. 

As anyone who keeps up with the happenings of the Arb would know, walking on the groomed ski trails is warned against as it can ruin the tracks. Because of this, winter walks in the  Arb can be difficult and I never got deep into the Lower Arb in the winter.. After my cross-country skiing escapade last week, I realized how much I was missing out on. The Lower Arb in the dead of winter is truly a sight to behold. While in the fall there is prairie as far as the eye can see, there is now snow covering the expanses of prairie, although some plants still persist and can be seen poking through the snow. I also had the privilege of skiing during the sunset and got to watch the sun fall below the flat expanse of prairie. Long story short, this is my plea for all those who haven’t given cross-country skiing a chance to get out into the Arb and experience winter to the fullest!