February 7, 2017
Two days after 12+ inches of snow fell in the Northwoods, the Cross Country Ski class of Wheaton College made their way up to HoneyRock for MLK weekend. It was an awesome opportunity to learn a new sport and enjoy the beautiful (and snowy!) Northwoods.
Students learned about all aspects of the sport: dressing for the weather, waxing skis for optimal performance, technical skills required to ski, and more! Then, they applied their learning and hit the trails both at HoneyRock and on the Anvil Lakes Trail system in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
Bryce, a CFM Graduate Student, co-led the class. He remembers one of his favorite moments, saying, “On Saturday night we cut tracks out onto the lake and skied in silence under the stars. As we passed under the bridge I heard a voice behind me say, "This is one of the coolest things I've ever seen."
This class isn’t just about learning how to kick double-pole or dog trot (XC ski terms!). It goes deeper than technical skills. We love offering students a place apart from Wheaton College – allowing them time to reflect and silence themselves before the Lord. When asked what her time was like, one student noted the peace she felt. She continued, “I loved we got to spend so much time in the snowy woods just enjoying nature and enjoying hanging out with each other.” This is HoneyRock at it’s best: teaching valuable life skills while making space for authentic community and connecting people with God’s creation.
We can’t wait for next year!