Colorado Nordic Centers for Snowshoeing & More

Take your time absorbing the sights and sounds of the Rocky Mountains and tread easy knowing that your snowshoes are the only footprints you’ll be leaving on the environment.

Many of the state's Nordic 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. With groomed routes, lessons, equipment rentals and warming huts with post-trek hot chocolate, exploring these centers' 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? Brush up on beginner snowshoeing tips in Colorado for all you need to know to hit the trails with confidence.

Breckenridge Nordic Center

With natural snow and snow-making capabilities, it's easy to find freshly groomed snow at Breckenridge Nordic Center for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The center even has guided snowshoe adventures and Nordic ski lessons to help you get your snow legs before hitting the trails on your own. Learn about adaptive skiing and snowshoeing at Breckenridge Nordic Center.

Crested Butte Nordic Center

In the charming village of Crested Butte, more than 50 kilometers of trails meander through the outskirts of town and into the backcountry. Flats, rolling terrain and hills offer space for all skill levels. Those who want to make a full day of it can reserve a spot at the Magic Meadows Yurt for a gourmet backcountry dinner. Learn about adaptive skiing and snowshoeing at Crested Butte Nordic Center.

Keystone Nordic Center

Keystone's Nordic center offers rentals, lessons and guided tours in snowshoeing, skate skiing and cross-country skiing on their 16km of local trails, with access to 27 more in the nearby White River National Forest. Afterward, hit the center's soup buffet to warm up and grab an après-Nordic-ski beverage. Learn about adaptive skiing and snowshoeing at Keystone Nordic Center.

Vail Nordic Center

Right in the heart of Vail, hop on Vail Nordic Center's 17km of cross-country and skate skiing runs and utilize the center’s video analysis to improve your technique. For those who like a slower pace, take in the sights and sounds of the mountains by snowshoeing 10km of trails. Either way, with homemade soups, snacks, beverages and rentals available on site, as well as lessons and trails ranging from easy to difficult, Vail Nordic Center makes sure a good time will be had by everyone. Learn about adaptive skiing and snowshoeing at Vail Nordic Center.

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. Traveling between the system’s hubs in Aspen and Snowmass, you'll pass 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 — located just over 1km 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 the dessert. (Reservations required.)

The Frisco Nordic Center

Situated along the shores of Lake Dillon in the White River National Forest, the Frisco Nordic Center is located in Frisco 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 on 45km of groomed trails, where you’ll learn about the history and nature of the area. Learn about adaptive skiing and snowshoeing at Frisco Nordic Center.

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 for you. 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 a stone's throw from Eldora’s downhill ski area near Nederland, 40km 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. Learn about adaptive skiing and snowshoeing at Eldora.

Additional Adaptive Lessons & Courses

• National Sports Center for the Disabled
• Telluride Adaptive Sports Program
• Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (multiple locations)

Other Nordic Centers

• Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby
• Telluride Ski Resort's TopAten Nordic and Snowshoe Area
• Gunnison Nordic Club
• Vail Mountain Nordic Activities at Golden Peak
• Winter Park Snowshoe Tour Center
• Sunlight Mountain Resort Nordic Center
• Steamboat Ski Touring Center
• Purgatory (formerly Durango Mountain Resort)
• Beaver Creek Nordic Center
• Grand Lake Nordic Center
• Crown Mountain Park

Want More?

Check out other trails for wintry fun.

Take a look at Colorado hut trips for advanced cross-country skiers and snowshoers.