Wait… Skiing Without Snow?

Yes, really. Roller skiing swaps snow for smooth pavement and replaces skis with narrow, wheeled platforms that mimic the feel of classic or skate skiing. Add poles, a good pair of boots, and suddenly you’re carving up bike paths and quiet roads like it’s mid-January.

And honestly… who needs snow to ski?

A Quick Trip Back in Time

Cross-country (Nordic) skiing dates back thousands of years, originating in the snowy regions of Scandinavia as a means of travel, hunting, and survival during long winters. Over time, it evolved into a sport known for endurance, technique, and that unmistakable glide.

Fast-forward to the 20th century: athletes didn’t want to lose their fitness when the snow melted. Enter roller skiing—a clever, slightly wild-looking solution that allowed skiers to train year-round. What started as a niche training method is now a sport in its own right—and one of the best ways to stay ski-fit through the off-season.

The Gear: Simple, Sleek, and Surprisingly Addictive

Roller skiing doesn’t require a ton of equipment, but the right setup makes all the difference:

• Roller Skis: Designed for either classic or skate technique, with built-in resistance to simulate snow.
• Bindings & Boots: The same style you’d use in winter—so your muscle memory stays sharp.
• Poles: Slightly shorter than winter poles, with durable carbide tips for pavement.
• Helmet: Non-negotiable. Think bike helmet, with lots of ventilation.
• Gloves: Save your hands (trust us).
• Eye Protection: A bug in your eye can spell disaster. And a good pair of visors can protect your eyes from dust, wind, and sunlight fatigue.

Pavement is Your “Snow”

Unlike winter skiing, where you can wander onto a trail and go, roller skiing depends on smooth, well-maintained pavement. Think bike paths, quiet neighborhood roads, or dedicated training loops.

Not all pavement is created equal—rough chip seal can feel like skiing through peanut butter. Smooth asphalt? That’s your perfect “corduroy.”

Safety First (but still fun)

Roller skiing is exhilarating—but it comes with a learning curve, especially around balance, stopping, and terrain awareness.

A few ground rules:

• Start on flat terrain until you’re comfortable.
• Avoid traffic-heavy roads whenever possible.
• Always wear a helmet (seriously).
• Use bright, high-visibility clothing so drivers can see you from a distance.
• Ski with a partner or group when you can—it’s safer and more fun.

You’ll feel a little awkward at first. Then, suddenly, it clicks—and you’re gliding.

Learn it the Right Way

If you’re new, the fastest way to fall in love with roller skiing (without literally falling too much) is to learn from professionals.

That’s where Team Soldier Hollow comes in. Based at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center in Midway, this program is known for developing strong, confident Nordic skiers—whether they’re just starting out or chasing competitive goals.

During the summer months, their training shifts seamlessly onto pavement. Athletes learn proper technique, balance, and safety in a structured, supportive environment. Coaches break down the movements, help you build confidence, and (importantly) teach you how to regulate speed and stop without panic.

It’s not just for elite athletes, either. Although they sure do make it look easy, it’s not for the faint of heart.  Beginners are welcome, and there’s something uniquely motivating about learning alongside a group that’s equally excited to be out there.

Why Roller Skiing is Worth Trying

• It keeps your ski fitness alive year-round so you’re ready to hit it hard on opening day.
• It builds balance, strength, and coordination.
• It’s a killer cardio workout (in a good way).
• It’s something new that you probably haven’t tried—yet.

And maybe the best part? That familiar rhythm—the push, glide, breathe—doesn’t disappear with winter. It just changes scenery.

So… Ready to Roll?

Summer doesn’t have to mean the end of ski season. With roller skis under your feet and a stretch of smooth pavement ahead, it might actually be the beginning of something new.

If you’ve ever been curious, this is your sign: grab a helmet, throw on something bright, and give it a go—with a little help from the pros at Soldier Hollow.

Because skiing is life, and it isn’t just for winter anymore.

Join Team Soldier Hollow in Midway this summer to learn: utaholympiclegacy.org

Team Soldier Hollow serves XC Skiers and Biathletes from the Heber Valley and surrounding communities in Utah. Team Soldier Hollow is based at the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Nordic Venue and now encompasses programs for ages 5 years and up.

VISION

Developing Champions in Sport & Life.

MISSION

Teach the sports of Nordic Skiing and Biathlon and develop regional, national and internationally competitive athletes, all while encouraging a life-long love of sport.

ABOUT SOUP & SOHO

Soup & SoHo is an annual fundraiser to celebrate and support Team Soldier Hollow athletes. The fundraiser has been happening for over 20 years and features soups and other goodies from several of our fantastic regional restaurants/chefs.
This year will be an online auction beginning October 30th at 6 am and culminating on November 4th during the gala from 6-8 pm. The auction will feature a broad selection of fantastic auction items that our athlete families and coaches procure from local businesses.
The funds raised from the auction directly support Team Soldier Hollow and help offset 70% of program costs that are not covered by athlete tuition. Our goal this year is to raise $15,000 for athlete development programs!

• Supporting Member: Any business donating an item (or cash) up to a $250 value will be
  • Recognized on the virtual bid sheet during Soup & SoHo and
  • Listed on the TeamSoHo.org wall of supporters.
• Bronze Sponsor: Any business providing a $250-999 value will be
  • Recognized on the virtual bid sheet during Soup & SoHo and
  • Listed on the TeamSoHo.org wall of supporters as a Bronze Sponsor
  • Included on Team Sponsor Banner that travels to local & regional events
• Silver Sponsor: Any business providing a $1,000-4,999 value will be
  • Recognized on the virtual bid sheet during Soup & SoHo
  • Listed on the TeamSoHo.org Wall of Supporters as a Silver Lever Sponsor and
  • Included on Team Sponsor Banner that travels to local & regional events
  • Placed on the Team SoHo trailer as a Silver Level Sponsor.
• Gold Sponsor: Any business providing a $5,000 value or higher will be
  • Recognized on the virtual bid sheet during Soup & SoHo
  • Listed on the TeamSoHo.org Wall of Supporters as a Gold Lever Sponsor
  • Included on Team Sponsor Banner that travels to local & regional events
  • Placed on the Team SoHo trailer as a Gold Level Sponsor.
  • Displayed in the Soldier Hollow stadium during summer & winter events

Team Title Sponsorship – Please inquire with program leads.

TEAM CONTACT:     

Gerrit Garberich
+1218-839-6340
ggarberich@uolf.org

Buy tickets here.

Whether you’re a seasoned snowmobiler or a first-timer, there are plenty of options for snowmobile tours and rentals in the Heber Valley. If it’s your first time out, a guided tour is a great way to get to know the machines and the safety protocols before setting out on your own. Once you’re comfortable, plenty of shops offer rentals with proximity to local trails. Most outfitters also offer gear rental so you can stay comfortable on even the coldest winter days!

Adventourage, Daniels Summit Lodge, North Forty Escapes, Park City Peaks, Summit Meadows, Wasatch Excursions, and Weller Backcountry Adventures are some of the Wasatch Back’s go-to places for snowmobiling adventures. Each one offers unique experiences for both locals and those visiting “Utah’s Greatest Snow on Earth.”

One of the newest adventure companies on the scene in Heber Valley is Adventourage. Based at the Homestead Resort, Adventourage crafts customized private tours in the Uinta Mountains. Private guided tours start at $499 for a half day, with additional options for full day or overnight trips that include a stay in their four-season ‘glamping’ village at Strawberry. They offer a variety of the newest snow machines in order to ensure the best experience for all abilities.

For an immersive snowmobile experience, Daniels Summit Lodge is the premier snowmobiling destination in the Uinta National Forest. They groom more than 200 miles of trails right out the backdoor of their full-service lodge. They offer guided two-hour tours or two, four, and eight-hour rentals if you prefer to explore on your own. You don’t have to be a guest of the lodge to join a tour, but the indoor pool, hot tub, and day spa are awfully tempting after a day on the trails. They also have groomed cross-country ski trails, so it’s pretty easy to make a whole weekend of your visit.

Set on the expansive Stillman Ranch in Oakley, North Forty Escapes offers four guided snowmobile tours every day in the winter. Tours take you up through dense aspen forests to open bowls where you can test your speed skills under the watchful eye of experienced guides. This is a great place for first-time snowmobilers and personally one of my favorite properties for outdoor adventure in the Uintas. They also have sled dogs on the property, so you can book a combo tour of snowmobiling and dog-sledding. Guided two-hour snowmobile tours start at $189.

Fans of the Yellowstone television series just might recognize some of the scenery as they speed through Thousand Peaks Ranch. Several scenes from the popular series were filmed at the ranch located at the head of Weber Canyon in Oakley. With access to over 20,000 acres of some of the best snow in the Uintas — a snowmobile tour of Thousand Peaks Ranch with Park City Peaks is definitely worth it! Options include: two, three, and four-hour guided tours.

Deer Valley’s snowmobile operator, Summit Meadows Adventures, offers daily tours at Garff Ranches in Brown’s Canyon. Two-hour tours start at $229 and are offered four times per day throughout the winter season. Enjoy expansive views across the Jordanelle Reservoir back towards Deer Valley and the Wasatch Mountains. With ample open terrain, this is the perfect tour for beginners who want to test out their new skills in the wide open fields.

Operating out of the golf shop at Wasatch Mountain State Park, Wasatch Excursions offers two-hour guided tours three times each day, as well as riding clinics and unguided rentals. Tours start at $239 and are great for both beginners and experienced riders. Explore the backcountry trails of the state park, see the hidden homes of Brighton Estates that are only accessible by snowmobile, and spend time zooming across a frozen lake. On a clear day, the views of Heber Valley are outstanding.

Most folks know Weller Recreation as a one-stop-shop for Northern Utah motorsports. But did you know that this Kamas motorsports dealer also offers snowmobile rentals and tours? With easy access to the Mirror Lake Highway their snowmobile adventures seem like a no-brainer. The scenic trail tour starts at $250 for a two-hour guided tour, while the backcountry tour gives you four hours on the sleds. When you’re ready to hit the trails on your own, they have rentals with a variety of horsepower for all riders.

Snowmobiling in Heber Valley typically starts in mid-December and will continue through late March, weather-permitting. For the most part, your ski clothes are perfectly suitable to wear snowmobiling, although you may want an extra layer as you won’t have quite the same workout as skiing. Most outfitters rent snowmobile suits, gloves and boots if you don’t have the proper gear. Remember: the warmer you are, the more fun you will have, so don’t skimp on your layers. I know I’m not alone in my excitement to get out and explore the beauty of our mountains while snowmobiling!

Get out this winter and explore the backcountry in safety with a professionally guided snowmobile excursion.

Adventourage
adventourage.com  |  435-315-2234

Daniels Summit Lodge
danielssummit.com  |  435-649-1341

North Forty Escapes
northfortyescapes.com  |  435-631-4011

Park City Peaks
powderutah.com  |  888-304-7669

Summit Meadows
deervalley.com  |  888-896-7669

Wasatch Excursions
wasatchexcursions.com   |  435-729-9595

Weller Backcountry Adventures
wellerbackcountryadventures.com  |  435-990-4095