The Mt Shasta region has an abundance of un-groomed, backcountry winter trails, which are suitable for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. At this time, the large majority of these trails are undocumented and unmarked. The intent of MSNSO is to mark and maintain backcountry winter ski trails that are currently used, but unsupported; identify, develop, and maintain new backcountry winter trails; and document and publicize the backcountry trails with trail maps and interpretive natural history brochures, to be distributed free of charge via the Forest Service office, local ski shops, and the internet.

Our initial hope is to resurrect the markings and redo the mapping of the trail system in the Sand Flat area on Mt. Shasta, a trail system steeped in local Nordic history. What better way to get a new organization off the ground than to seek out the forefathers and folklore of our own endeavors? Stay tuned for news regarding the development of this project and tidbits from our historical research. Of course, if you are interested in helping with this project, please contact us.

Interested in something steeper?

The Mt. Shasta area nurtures a delightful selection of backcountry ski terrain, suitable for anything from the tranquil tour to the harrowing plunge. While Nordic is an umbrella wide enough to cover the latter (and many of us partake), as an organization we currently focus on groomed trails and backcountry touring opportunities. We recommend you visit our neighbors for information regarding the steep, deep, and untracked:

Mt. Shasta Avalanche Center
The Fifth Season
Shasta Mountain Guides