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General Information

Athletes and adult participants are expected to provide their own equipment (Nordic skis, boots, poles). Skiers that will compete in JNQ races will need skate and classic skis/poles. Combi boots NNN compatible recommended.

Purchase, or rental is available through:

  • The Team has Junior skate / classic skis and poles for rent ($100) December 1, 2026 - April 1, 2027. Juniors are responsible for providing their personal ski boots. There is a limited selection of used skate/classic skis for sale at reasonable pricing.
  • The Base Camp  
  • Pioneer Midwest  Pioneer Midwest has a trade in / trade up program for Junior skiers.

Please reach out to the coaching staff for assistance with Nordic ski equipment selection.

Skiers and their families are encouraged to support and become members of the Last Chance Nordic Ski Club. Without their tireless grooming we could not ski and have a team. Please visit LCNSC and become a member!

All GDNST coaches and volunteers undergo background checks and Safesport training 

The Head Coach (Dave A) is USSA L-200 Nordic certified.

Our vision is to support Nordic skiing across the lifespan, promote physical fitness, a healthful lifestyle, and an appreciation for the natural environment.

Our programs build character, life skills, friendships, perspective, and the courage to pursue dreams, whatever they might be.

Overview

The Great Divide Ski Team (GDST) offers a growing Nordic skiing program based in Helena, Montana, focused on introducing youth to cross-country skiing and preparing athletes for competitive events across the state. Our Nordic team trains regularly at local venues including MacDonald Pass and Bill Roberts Golf Course, which offer accessible and quality terrain for skill development.

Our program includes early season dryland training to build endurance and strength, followed by structured on-snow sessions throughout the winter. Our coaching is focused on skate skiing techniques to develop athletes who can participate in—and excel at—Montana Nordic citizen races. For those seeking a challenge there are the JNQ (Junior National Qualifier) races sanctioned by the US Ski and Snowboard Association.

The program is open to a wide range of abilities and ages, and our coaching staff works hard to balance fun, skill progression, and competitive preparation. Emphasis is placed on personal growth, teamwork, and developing a lifelong appreciation for Nordic skiing.

Skiing is an intensely equipment-oriented sport. One of the most significant barriers to entry is access to skis, poles, and boots. To address this, GDST is actively purchasing Nordic gear to make available for rent and scholarship use. This effort ensures that juniors who want to ski—but don’t have the resources—can still participate fully in training and competition. Go here for more information on applying for a scholarship.

 Questions? Contact Dave Armstrong

Dryland bounding
Early Season Dryland Training
  • Prepare for the season ahead. Focus on body weight strength, aerobic fitness, agility and roller skiing.
  • Eligibility: Open to Alpine and Nordic Junior skiers. Interested athletes should contact Dave Armstrong for more information.
  • Schedule: Begins December 1, 2026 and continues until there is skiable snow. 
  • Practice: Tuesdays and Thursdays at Bill Roberts Golf Course Ski School (driving range) from 4 pm until 5:30 pm. Saturday 10a-Noon (optional).

  • Program Fee: $150

    Register

Junior Nordic Skiing

  • Eligibility: Open to Juniors age 10-18. 

    No ski experience required. 8/9yos with Nordic ski experience may petition to join the program.

    Athletes must become a U.S. Ski and Snowboard (USSA) member. Skiers that do not intend to race in USSA sanctioned events sign-up as a General Member ($42). Those skiers that will compete in sanctioned events sign-up as a Competitor ($141)

  • Schedule: Regular practice begins when there is skiable snow on the golf course or on MacDonald Pass 

    Practice is from 4-5:30p Tuesday and Thursday. Saturday from 10-Noon

  • Juniors are encouraged to race but competing is not required.
  • Contact Dave Armstrong for more information

  • Program Fee: $450

    Register

Skating
V-1 skate
Introduction to Skate Skiing (Adult)
  • Eligibility: Any adult wishing to learn to skate ski. No experience necessary!
  • Schedule: Classes begin in January. Earlier if there is skiable snow.

  • Details: One (1) 2-hour lesson for students new to skate skiing. $75

    Additional lessons are offered to previous "old" students for $50 per session

    Groups are limited to 5 skiers per session.

    Lessons will be offered at various dates and times depending on interest and snow at the Bill Roberts Golf Course. Classes for intermediate skiers may be scheduled depending on interest.

    Contact Dave Armstrong for more information

  • Program Fee: $75 New students; $50 for "old" students

    Register