What We Do
Since 2019, XNF has led the effort to connect members of the Lummi and Nooksack Nations with winter recreational activities in the Snowqualmie - Mt Baker wilderness. We supply rides, food, lift tickets, gear, warm clothes, ski lessons and anything else that kids need to have a great time in the mountains.
Our Mission
Mt Baker ski area is one of the premier ski and snowboard destinations on the planet and we aim to provide local native youth with the opportunity to enjoy these sports and build a deeper connections with this sacred part of their traditional territory. We hope to build friendships that last a lifetime and foster better communication and trust between native people and the mountain community.
“Living near Mt Baker and not being able to snowboard or ski, is like living in Hawaii and never having the opportunity to surf. Most native youth in Whatcom county never get a chance experience these sports, even though most have lived in close proximity to the mountain their whole lives.”
— Zack Giffin
What We’ve Achieved
Connected underprivelagded youth to healthy recreational activities.
Built lasting friendships
Facilitated better communication and trust between native and non native people
Provided athletic opportunity at a time of year when many other youth actives are not available.
Helped to increase diversity in the mountain community
Smiles… lots of them
Tail Grabs
New ways for native youth to enjoy the spectacular beauty of their traditional territory