About NSTA
Our cross country ski outings have been a tradition with our club ever since its origin. When we use the trails at Camp Manitowish we are on the very property that inspired the creation of the NSTA.
About us
“The purpose of the Association shall be for the advancement and enjoyment of cross country skiing”.
However, we also enjoy the silent sports of hiking, biking, alpine skiing and paddling on both lakes and streams. NSTA is a fun group. We promote exercise, safety, socializing and food!"
Some history
Back in the mid 1970’s Steve Burr was the manager of Camp Manitowish. He and manager Steve Mass from the North American Canoe Base of the Boy Scouts of America got together and sponsored a series of small meetings. The purpose of these meetings was to see if there was any interest in developing a winter program at Camp Manitowish. There were several very active cross country skiers from the area who attended the meetings which were held at meeting rooms at Camp Manitowish, the Bear Bar in Winchester and also at the Moraine Springs ski facility near Presque Isle.
President’s Welcome
Welcome to the website of the Northwoods Ski Touring Association (NSTA).
Now in its 45th year, NSTA is a vibrant group of people who love to experience the Northwoods through a wide range of silent sports. While our primary sport is cross country skiing, we also participate in downhill skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking and kayaking. Our all-volunteer organization does a fantastic job of creating fun, outdoor experiences.
During the winter we have cross country ski outings scheduled for two times per week. On Sundays, members ski at a variety of area cross country ski venues while on Fridays, we ski at YMCA Camp Manitowish in Boulder Junction. The latter opens exclusively for members and the camp grooms trails especially for our use. Depending on the snow conditions, some members may also choose to snowshoe during these times. We follow up our exercise with social get-togethers such as a pot luck or a meal at an area restaurant. Also, a group of active downhill skiers typically meets on Wednesdays at various area ski resorts.
During the warmer months, the club offers weekly kayak outings on Tuesdays, exploring many of the area lakes and streams. On Wednesdays, the group has bike outings on the myriad local bike trails and roadways. These are typically followed by picnics at local park.
The club also organizes at least three overnight trips per year: a winter one for cross country skiing, a summer kayaking/canoeing trip, and finally an early fall biking trip. These are a fun way to enjoy new locations with like-minded sports enthusiasts.
Finally, we have spring and fall banquets for more social camaraderie and this year we will hold out first members-only Winter Picnic in addition to our highly popular Summer Picnic and ice cream social.
As you can see, if your interests include cross country skiing and other aforementioned sports, NSTA has much to offer. For those seeking membership in NSTA, our Constitution and By-laws require new members to participate in cross country skiing and have a club sponsor. For anyone in need of sponsorship or for any questions about the club, please feel free to contact me at 734-730-8369 or at rmtheile@hotmail.com.
We hope you will join Northwoods Ski Touring Association for outdoor fun!
Dick Theile, President 2022-23