We’re cross country skiers of all kind – from pioneers of the sport in our region, to career racers and athletes, to enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. We all have a deep love for skiing, and we’re here to help share it with everyone and bring more people into this incredible sport! Far West Nordic serves clubs, families, and individuals, from professional racers to those trying it out for the first time. We support and offer a wide variety of Nordic ski programs in California and Nevada, and encourage participation from clinics to group training to racing across our region.

Far West Nordic is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation, officially named Far West Nordic Ski Education Association. As a division of the United States Ski and Snowboard, our goal is to promote, develop, and expand XC (Nordic) ski racing within the Far West Region (California, Nevada and Hawaii). Our vision is to develop cross-country skiers to their full potential through various educational, communication, certification, financial and coordination programs.

Nordic skiing offers wonderful opportunities for anyone that enjoys the outdoors. For junior skiers, Nordic skiing promotes athleticism, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishments that comes from building and achieving endurance. Masters skiers derive many health benefits by staying in aerobic shape and enjoy the camaraderie of each other’s company on the trails and at the races. Nordic skiing uses all the major muscle groups, offers a great cardiovascular workout, and is a low impact sport that’s usually easy on the body’s joints. Many of us involved in this sport are convinced it “keeps us young”, and we’re inspired by many of our masters skiers that are still actively competing well into their 70s and beyond.

Much of Far West Nordic’s efforts are focused on supporting, developing, and nurturing our Junior skiers (up to age 20). Programs for Juniors include training camps, race trips, race series, the U14 Cup, and Junior Nationals. Additionally, Far West works to provide financial support to our highest-achieving junior athletes and alumni who represent Far West and US Skiing on the international stage.

Juniors need the most on-going training and guidance, and this requires significant financial support. These programs are funded by our business sponsors, donations, and income raised from programs.

Far West’s Masters programs are designed to motivate and encourage on-going participation and help Masters skiers improve their skiing and reach their personal goals. Our masters serve as the “backbone” of the organization, providing significant financial support and volunteer time.

Far West Nordic offers several racing programs for its members. The Masters Challenge is a race series to see how you stack up competitively against your age group peers. The series consists of 10 races, of which any 5 must be finished. A racer’s best 5 races are scored in 5 year age groups and at the end of the season, the top 3 racers in each age group receive awards.

The Sierra Ski Chase is open to skiers of all abilities and is going into its 18th season. It’s a low-key racing series and all Far West members are eligible to participate. The purpose of the Sierra Ski Chase is to encourage participation in racing events regardless of a skier’s abilities. All members who participate in at least 5 races this season will receive a commemorative participation prize and are eligible for raffle prizes donated by sponsors.

Far West Nordic is built around our Nordic community – we seek to provide opportunities for everyone in our community to get involved in the sport of skiing, and in turn we rely on our community for insight, engagement, and support. Joining Far West Nordic as a Member is the best way to get the most out of your involvement! 

Stay connected, be the first to know about all our events, races, clinics, and more, and be a vital part of the Nordic community. There are multiple levels of membership, from Individual, Family, and Supporting levels. 

Membership benefits include eligibility for scored races and series, invites to special programs and clinics, and much more! For complete details and to join, see our membership page.

Far West relies 100% on donations and fundraisers to support our programs, from races and programs locally to supporting our athletes at the highest level. We need your help to make it all happen! Participate or attend one of our fundraiser events to get in on the fun and keep the wax trailer lights on.

• • • • Auction-Raffle Party. The single greatest cross country ski social event of the season. Featuring incredible deals on auction items from all your favorite gear and local shops, the Best Raffle Prize in the West, guest speakers, and more!

• • • • Tahoe Rim Race & Tour. All proceeds from this race go to the Far West Nordic and Auburn Ski Club Junior Skier programs.

• • • • Billy Dutton Uphill. Billy was as athlete extraordinary endurance, equally famous for his great smile as he was for his daily (!) routine of skiing UP the Mountain Run on classic skis. As one of the founders of Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue, Billy’s legacy lives on today. This 3.2 mile Uphill race from the base of Squaw to High Camp commemorates Billy’s life and his many contributions to our community. All proceeds from the Billy Dutton Uphill go to benefit Far West Nordic’s juniors program.

Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws