Morton Arboretum perfect setting to try cross-country skiing

With a fresh coating of snow, relatively mild temperatures and no crowds, Maredith and Greg Stoffel of Batavia decided to give cross-country skiing a try Monday morning at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle.

As members of the arboretum, the couple knew they could rent skis, boots and poles at the outdoor museum to take a crack at the sport.

While Maredith had tried cross-county skiing before, it had been about 15 years since she had last put on a pair of skis. It was Greg's first time.

"I enjoy it," he said, "and it is great exercise."

The two chose a trail that worked its way through open and wooded areas. The arboretum has multiple groomed and ungroomed trails for winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

The rental cost of skis, poles and boots for nonmembers is $15 for two hours or $20 for all day, while members receive a discount.

To learn more about trying cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, visit the arboretum's website at mortonarb.org.