Nordic skiing, also known as cross-country skiing, offers an opportunity to appreciate the Colorado winter landscape while engaging in a low-impact exercise that enhances overall well-being. This activity is highly beneficial for cultivating endurance, refining balance and strengthening core muscles, all while traversing spectacular terrain within a pristine winter setting.
Beaver Creek Nordic Center
Beaver Creek
This full-service Nordic center offers a unique opportunity for those seeking an elevated skiing or snowshoeing experience. After taking a lift to McCoy Park, guests can enjoy vistas of the Sawatch Range and 19 kilometers of both groomed and rustic trails. For those seeking a lower-elevation experience, trails are also accessible on the Beaver Creek Golf Course. Refreshments are available at Eaton Haus for rejuvenation.
Visit: beavercreek.com
Breckenridge Nordic Center
Breckenridge
This locally owned and family-operated Nordic center established in 1969 is conveniently located just five minutes from downtown. It offers a range of trails, from beginner (green) to advanced (black), categorized by experience level. Following your skiing session, guests may relax and warm up with hot cocoa or a signature cocktail at the Oh, Be Joyful Lodge.
Visit: breckenridgenordic.com
Crested Butte Nordic
Crested Butte
This nonprofit Nordic center manages 55 kilometers of trails, with three trailheads in downtown Crested Butte. It provides accessible, inclusive Nordic events for all ages and abilities. It also maintains an extensive winter trail system that facilitates connections for both residents and visitors, allowing them to experience the natural splendor of Crested Butte. Visit: cbnordic.org
Durango Nordic Center
Durango
The Durango Nordic Ski Club, a nonprofit organization in the San Juan Mountains, provides access to over 25 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for both skate and classic skiing, accommodating participants of all ages. This Nordic club offers equipment rentals and 90-minute instructional sessions for both skate and classic skiing, supplemented by 2-hour clinics for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
Visit: durangonordic.org
C Lazy U Ranch
Granby
This award-winning, all-inclusive luxury ranch provides 38 cabins and access to more than 6 kilometers of groomed cross-country skiing trails. Patrons may explore independently or reserve a guided excursion to appreciate the extensive views of the Rockies and potentially observe red foxes or elk herds. Supplementary activities encompass trail rides, sleigh rides, snow tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, ice hockey and rejuvenation at the Lazy U Spa. Visit: clazyu.com
YMCA of the Rockies - Snow Mountain Ranch
Granby
The YMCA of the Rockies in Granby offers an expansive winter recreational area, encompassing over 5,100 acres of natural beauty. The Nordic Center features more than 82.5 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for all ages and skill levels, with single-day passes starting at $29 for adults. Guests may also enjoy cozy private cabin rentals, ice skating, snowshoeing, tubing, dog sledding and snowmobiling. Visit: ymcarockies.org
Tennessee Pass Nordic Center
Leadville
Reservations are not required, and guests have ample opportunities to enjoy the Sawatch Mountains and over 27 kilometers of trails suitable for all styles and abilities. This Nordic center operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, guests may reserve a cozy solar-powered sleep yurt and a multi-course dining experience, both conveniently accessible from the trails.
Visit: tennesseepass.com
Woodmoor Nordic Center
Monument
The Country Club at Woodmoor Golf Course in Monument transforms into a meticulously maintained Nordic winter destination for skiers. Woodmoor Nordic, a registered nonprofit organization, provides instructional sessions (reservations required), with private lessons starting at $75 or group instruction for five or more participants priced at $35 per person. Visit:woodmoornordicnonprofit.org
Vail Nordic Center
Vail
This full-service Nordic center provides 17 kilometers of daily-groomed trails, equipment rentals, lessons, a lodge area, a restaurant and an evening race series. The restaurant serves signature soups, snacks and hot beverages for replenishment. Day passes are available for purchase at $29, and children aged five and under receive complimentary admission.
Cultivate endurance,
Refine balance,
Strengthen core muscles,
in a pristine winter setting.
A low-impact exercise that enhances overall well-being.