20 Years of Crossroads’ Ski-for-Free

Allie Sommerfeldt and Linnea Schmelzer of Sturgeon Bay enjoy the winter wonderland at Crossroads at Big Creek using ‘Ski-for-Free’ ski equipment.

The community is invited to borrow free cross-country ski equipment and snow shoes on March 14 from 12 to 4 pm to explore Crossroads at Big Creek Preserve. Enjoy hot chocolate and cake to celebrate 20 years of free equipment being provided to the Door County community.
20 years ago, John Rosenthal, then a Middle School Social Studies teacher, gave birth to the beginnings of the now ’Ski-for-Free’ program at Crossroads at Big Creek Environmental Learning Center. Back in 1995, John had the vision of providing a cross country ski experience for his students. “It was a matter of providing a physical outdoor activity for kids and having them enjoy the winter environment we have in Door County”, said Rosenthal.
People of all ages and abilities are provided with free ski equipment to venture outdoors for physical activity on the groomed trails and to enjoy the winter environment we have in Door County.