Though winter at Diamond Lake is known primarily as a snowmobiler's paradise, cross-country skiers of all skill levels can find a phenomenal variety of terrain.

A relatively small investment in technology made possible by Oregon's Recreational Trails Program promises to have a big impact on cross-country skiing in Southern Oregon.

Fueled by a fresh coat of snow on Mount Ashland, a shuttle service is once again offering rides for skiers and snowboarders wanting to slide down the mountain.

Think skiing across a tranquil backcountry meadow near Diamond Lake. Think steep and deep powder stashes in hidden places around the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. Think silky groomed tracks at the Mount Shasta Nordic Center.

Car-challenged skiers and snowboarders no longer have a shuttle service to help them reach the slopes of the Mt. Ashland Ski Area.

Mother Nature may dust many local valleys with snow and dress the mountains in a shiny new coat of white by Saturday, potentially heralding an early ski and snowboard season.

The Medford Ski Education Foundation will hold its annual Ski and Snowboard Swap next weekend, Nov. 11-13, in the multipurpose room at St. Mary's School, 816 Black Oak Dr., Medford.

For years the wide trail between Fish Lake and Lake of the Woods has presented cross-country skiers with myriad experiences that only most of the time were fond.