Quote Originally Posted by Crankin View Post
Emily, when I lived in Florida, in high school, many of my friends went to NC for ski vacations. They were always saying they were "going to the mountains." I bet some of those alpine ski resorts have x country areas, where you could rent skis. I know it's probably not super close to you, but probably no worse than when I have to drive to NH or VT. It might break the monotony of the cold weather... and it's no different than cycling: layers and wool is your friend. Plus, you get really hot and sweaty.
I honestly have never heard of anyone doing XC in NC. It's possible in a winter where we get a LOT of snow (like last winter; they are forecasting much less for this winter). I know the downhill resorts here have to make snow using machines much of the time just to keep the runs snowy, the surrounding areas are often brown and snow-free! Despite the odd cold snap here and there (like this past week - brrrrr!), the climate is not what it used to be, and the snow totals in the NC mountains have been way down in recent years vs. when I was growing up.

But thanks for the suggestion; it is a good one! I know DH would enjoy it too so it's worth looking into if there is a place that has enough snow. The problem would be getting there and back on the roads if there's enough snow for XC. Living in central NC, we have no chains or snow tires, and I don't feel at all comfortable driving in snow since I do it so infrequently.