Talkeetna has a new option for winter sports

by: Katie Writer – KTNA

North Shore Cyclery has morphed into a ski shop this November. Snow has been sparse in the Northern Susitna Valley and people are eager to get outdoors. Snow skiing conditions have yet to come. There has been great ice for skating, but also treacherous ice lurking everywhere. It is slippery out there.

With an El Nino winter, plan on lots of changing surfaces to slide on and use the ice grippers so you don’t slide unexpectedly. If you are wondering what gear to use outside, North Shore Cyclery in Talkeetna is offering daily gear rentals to give you a chance to try it out before making a big purchase and before the conditions change.

Bike shop owner, Shawn Thelan is encouraging people to get outside and enjoy this time of year, even though the days are the shortest. He has stocked his shop with all types of skis, including classic, skate and touring skis, boots, and poles. He also has headlamps and ice cleats. And of course, lots of bike options, including fat tire bikes suitable for snow.

KTNA’s Katie Writer spoke with Shawn Thelan about gear, trail etiquette, and how to find others to enjoy being active outdoors.

The Denali Nordic Ski Club is also a great resource for meeting people to get out skiing this winter. Check out: www.denalinordicskiclub.org

The fat tire bike group forming in Talkeetna thru the NorthShore Cyclery can be found on their Facebook Page or by calling (907)733-9999.

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