Colorado Nordic Centers: Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

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Colorado’s more than 20 Nordic centers are a sure way to get on the snow quickly and start discovering the state’s winter wonderland.

Many of the centers are near or connected to Colorado’s ski areas and resorts, but there are also ranches, clubs and nonprofit organizations that maintain networks of trails each winter. The centers’ groomed routes, lessons, equipment rentals and warming huts with post-trek hot chocolate make exploring snowy landscapes a breeze.

Below are a few snowshoeing and cross-country experiences you can have in Colorado. For more locations and information, check out the Colorado Cross Country Ski Association. First time snowshoeing? Read Beginner Snowshoeing Tips in Colorado.

Aspen/Snowmass Nordic Trail System

With 80 kilometers of groomed trails, this is one of the largest free cross-country skiing and snowshoeing networks in North America. You can travel between the system’s hubs in Aspen and Snowmass, passing through wooded areas, hilly golf courses and peaceful valleys along the way.

Tennessee Pass Nordic Center

Visions of a four-course meal at the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, which awaits one mile from the trailhead, keeps trekkers moving along Leadville’s Tennessee Pass Nordic Trail. The meal will leave you full, but not too weighed down to make the easy journey back. The alpine views on the way to and from the mountain-top dining spot are almost as good as dessert. (Reservations required.)

The Frisco Nordic Center

Frisco’s 45 kilometers of groomed trails along the shores of Lake Dillon in the White River National Forest are located near several major ski resorts, making it the ideal activity for those in your party who prefer not to hit the downhill slopes. The center offers snowshoe tours, where you’ll learn about the history and nature of the area.

Never Summer Nordic

Never Summer’s network of remote yurts grants access to quintessential backcountry adventures. The yurts, all located in State Forest State Park near Walden, have beds and woodstoves, allowing you to stretch your adventure over several days and explore all the park’s nooks and crannies. (Reservations required; no on-site equipment rentals. Many of Colorado's 42 other state parks have trails as well.)

Crested Butte Nordic Center

In the charming village of Crested Butte, 45 kilometers of trails meander through the outskirts of town and through stands of pine trees. Flats, hills and steeps offer terrain for all skill levels. Those who want to make a full day of it can rent out the center’s cozy yurt for a mid-expedition picnic lunch or a moonlight dinner stopover.

Vista Verde Ranch

Spending several days at a guest ranch is the best way to truly immerse yourself in Colorado’s winter culture. The staff at the all-inclusive Vista Verde near Steamboat Springs takes care of all the details. Guests pop into the lodge for meals and rest, and spend the rest of their time traversing snowy trails, horseback- and sleigh-riding, dog sledding and more.

Eldora Mountain Resort Nordic Center

Just steps from Eldora’s downhill ski area near Nederland, 40 kilometers of trails wind through quiet, shady forests and wide-open meadows. For those who’ve mastered their skis and snowshoes, the resort holds a series of night races in January and February, where adventurous folks don headlamps and vie for top honors.