Crested Butte may be known for its steep and extreme terrain on the mountain, but if you are looking for a nordic/cross country experience the Nordic Ski Capital of Colorado is at your doorstep. Between the beautiful groomed tracks and valley drainages, there are no shortage of landscapes for you to explore.
Nordic Center
The Crested Butte Nordic Center is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide individuals of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enjoy, and improve in the sports of nordic skiing and snowshoeing. They maintain over 50 kilometers of meticulously groomed trails around the Town of Crested Butte and offer complete ski and snowshoe rental packages as well as private lessons, clinics, tours, and fine yurt dining.
Pristine Groomed Track
With over 55km of maintained nordic track and over 100km of groomed ski trails in the area, you can be sure to get in a great workout with spectacular views of the West Elks. Renting gear for both skate and classic styles is inexpensive and easy from the Nordic Center. The track is known for some of the best cross country skiing in Colorado and regularly draws Olympians for training. Click here for the latest trail and grooming report from Crested Butte Nordic.
Lessons and Backcountry Tours
New to cross country skiing? Learn from some of the best instructors at the Crested Butte Nordic Center. They offer lessons daily at 9 am, 10:30 am, 12 pm, and 1:30 pm. Trail pass and rental gear is included in your lesson. Lessons must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance. Backcountry tours are also available for those wanting to safely explore local valleys including: Slate River, Washington Gulch, Brush Creek, and Gothic. For more info on lessons and tours: Click Here
A Valley Worth Exploring
Filter the guide below by clicking on only one of the criteria in a category above the trail images (Difficulty, Grooming, Dog Friendly, Price).
Passes and Rentals
There are a wide variety of pass options to suit your specific need including: 10 day passes, season passes and more. Day trail passes are $20 for an adult, $16 for seniors, and FREE for super-seniors (70+). Kids 16 and under get day passes for $10 and rentals for $10. Along with season passes, day passes can be purchased online or at the Nordic Center.
- We HIGHLY encourage everyone to reserve their skis and buy their day passes online in advance. It is not recommended to walk-up without a reservation (but is allowed).
- Masks are required outside the Nordic Center.
The Nordic Center also rents out skate and classic skis for $20 or less (depending on age). They provide waxing and repair service as well.
Click to view maps
Looking to Buy or Sell Property in CB?
Right out of college, Dawn moved to Crested Butte and discovered a mountain oasis. She has now lived in the valley for 27 years, married the love of her life, raised two kids, and built a thriving business. Dawn aspires to help her clients experience the lifestyle and community she has fallen in love with. During her time in the valley, Dawn has represented over 300 buyers and sellers in purchasing or selling their homes.
