STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Socially distanced cross-country skiing has certainly helped many stay sane during this year of COVID. And, as slow as the vaccine rollout is, we will need a lot more Nordic skiing to keep us healthy and active while we wait.

Now, Galena Lodge Ski School is offering a distanced way to help you look like a pro as you wave to others from a distance.

The school has openings in both the DONS (Dudes on Nordic Skis) men’s classes and VAMPS women’s classes in January and February.

Classes are between four and eight weeks long. They’re offered for both skate and classic skiers, with different levels according to your ability. And that includes novice.

Classes are limited to seven people per instructor and take place at Lake Creek and/or Quigley Nordic.

And the imaginative coaches led by Muffy Ritz take classes beyond just learning V2 technique and more, with challenges and a weekly hunt for the big orange v that could earn you a BCRD season pass, Rossignol gear and other prizes.

To register, go to www.galenalodge.com. Questions? Call Galena Lodge at 208-726-4010.