If you grew up in the 80s, you probably remember spending a lot of time outdoors. Whether it was playing in the backyard with your friends, going on walks with your family, or spending long, sunny days at the beach, you would often find yourself wishing there was something more you could do outdoors. Something that would make it feel like summer all year round.
If you’re a fan of the outdoors, but don’t want to spend your winters in a cold climate, you might consider trying out cornskiing. Corn skiing is a sport that was born in Wisconsin, but has since become a very popular winter activity all over the world. It combines elements of snowboarding and skiing, and allows you to enjoy the thrill of speed and adventure, while feeling more connected to nature. If you’re curious about what corn skiing is all about, read on!
Table of Contents
History Of Corn Skiing
If you’re not familiar, the name Wisconsin originates from an explorer called Miles Wright, who was commissioned by the US government to travel to the Orient and explore the region. After he discovered the lush green landscapes and mild climate of the American Midwest, he dubbed it the “Land of Pleasant Weather”. So it was named, but it wasn’t long before people started using it as a short-hand form of writing “Northwestern Wisconsin”, which abbreviates to “NW Wisconsin”. Hence, the region’s inhabitants became known as “Northwesterners” or “Wisconsinites”. It is this sense of being both American and German that really defines the spirit of the people in this part of the country. If you visit, you’ll find lots of folks wearing lederhosen and speaking German songs. It kind of feels like you’ve stepped back in time a little.
Cornskiing was first formed by brothers Dan and Joe Wurm in 1982, after they returned from an expedition to the Andes in southern Peru. They had been skiing for a while, and were looking for a way to combine their love of the powder with their passion for the outdoors. After falling asleep on a train to Chicago, they had the idea for a “Northwesterner’s summer vacation”. What started out as a weekend trip turned into a week-long camp, and eventually, the Wurm brothers founded the Corn Skiing Corporation in 1984. They started organizing events and running clinics, and over the years, the sport grew in popularity. Today it is one of the most popular winter sports in North America.
The Thrill Of Speed
One of the reasons why corn skiing is so popular is because of its unique blend of thrill and nature. While skiing is a great activity for people of all ages, it is especially popular with young adults who want to enjoy the thrill of speed without risking life-threatening injuries. It’s not a cheap sport to participate in, as you have to buy your own equipment, and pay for coaches and clinics, but it is well worth it. You’re bound to have a blast.
If you’ve ever watched a good documentary on Netflix about extreme sports, you will have seen people talking about how much adventure they get from participating in these sports. It’s definitely part of the appeal, as you are given the chance to test your limits and see how far you can go. Plus there’s always the added excitement of potentially meeting otherworldly creatures.
Sustainability
Another big draw for people to corn ski is the sustainability focus that the sport embodies. You’re always assured of making the right choice regarding the environment, as you know that corn farming is quite sustainable. According to the Montréal New Democracy Partnership (MNP), “agriculture is one of the most eco-friendly ways of generating power”. The process is also very regenerative, as you are returning nutrients to the soil. There are very strict rules regarding the use of pesticides and fertilizers, as these are harmful to the environment. Hence, you are helping to protect nature by participating in this sport.
The MNP further elaborates that “the US energy industry spends over $100 billion annually on fossil fuels. However, agriculture consumes between 4% and 14% of the nation’s total energy supply, depending on the region”. So switching to renewable energy resources, such as solar or wind power, is always the best option.
Connected To Nature
A third major draw for people to corn ski is its inherent connection to nature. You’re often assured of getting away from the hustle and bustle of the world, as you are cloistered away in the wilderness. Once the last ski run is over, you’re presented with a beautiful sun-set, and the sound of wolves howling in the far-off distance. It’s definitely a romantic ideal that comes with this sport.
These distinct elements of speed, nature, and adventure make corn skiing a winter sport to remember. If you ever get the chance to try it out, don’t hesitate.