Lovers of downhill skiing do not have to go to the mountains, there are several excellent places near the capital where you can have fun in winter. And for those who prefer cross-country skiing, there are huge Moscow parks and forest parks and vast fields near Moscow.
Where to go skiing in Moscow?
Every winter on Vorobyovy Gory ski slopes are organized, the length and steepness of which cannot be compared with the slopes of the best alpine resorts, but for an active winter pastime this is a good option: the height difference is about 40 meters, and the average length of the slopes is 200 meters. This place has a number of advantages - it is located right in the capital, has a well-developed infrastructure, including a network of lifts, toilets, restaurants and ski equipment rental.
More exciting skiing awaits in Krylatskoye, on the slopes near the Grebnoy Canal. Here the tracks are longer, up to 300 meters, and the elevation difference is more impressive - about 50 meters. The ski center is located near the metro and is equipped with everything you need: artificial lighting, snow cannons, ski rental.
It is not surprising that it was in Krylatskoye that the first Moscow ski club was created.
To enjoy all the possibilities of the ski resort, without leaving the region, you can go to the Volen sports park, 40 kilometers from the Moscow Ring Road. In winter, he specializes in skiing, snowboarding and sledging. This large sports center has several different slopes, including a children's track, excellent lighting, artificial snowmaking and everything you need to relax: cafes, bars, restaurants and other entertainment.
Where to go cross-country skiing in Moscow?
Cross-country skiers living in Moscow often ride in Sokolniki Park, where a 45-kilometer ski trail is laid every winter. There are several ski rental offices in the park.
But it also has several drawbacks: the condition of the tracks depends on the weather conditions and sometimes leaves much to be desired, only some of them are illuminated.
Izmailovsky Park is also popular due to its huge area, divided into "cultural" and "wild" parts. Both have good routes, but there are only two rental points in this large area: at the Partizanskaya metro station and at Severnaya Square. You can ride along wide alleys in the "cultural" part of Izmailovsky Park in the evenings, the tracks are well lit, but most skiers prefer to wind through more distant places, so in the dark they have to wear headlamps.
Physically prepared lovers of more active skiing, with ups and downs, difficult loops and the ability to ski in any style, can be advised to ski in Romashkovo, 58 kilometers from the Moscow Ring Road. This is not a very long, but rather difficult amateur track, where skiing competitions are often held.
