Get the Nordic Scoop on Grand County, Colorado, with Meara McQuain

Golden, CO – We sat down with Meara McQuain, a passionate 49-year-old Nordic skier from Grand County, Colorado, who balances her love for skiing with a deep connection to the outdoors. As a long-time Colorado mountain local, Meara has an extensive history with Nordic skiing, from managing the Frisco Nordic Center to now working with Headwaters Trails Alliance. Meara’s first experience with skiing came in her early 20s during a mountaineering course in Alaska, which ignited her love for the mountains. She moved to Frisco soon after, where she learned to ski out of necessity—skiing to work at the Frisco Nordic Center was faster than taking the bus! Over the years, Meara has become a regular on both groomed trails and in the backcountry. Now living in Grand County, she spends her winters Nordic skiing and working for a local non-profit, Headwaters Trail Alliance, that builds and grooms nearly 65km of public trails. She shared her personal insight, favorite trails, and what makes Grand County such a unique Nordic skiing destination.

Overview—Grand County, CO: A Nordic Skiers Paradise

Grand County, Colorado, is a Nordic skiing haven, offering over 300 kilometers of groomed trails across five major ski areas: Snow Mountain Ranch, Devil’s Thumb Ranch, Grand Lake Touring Center, Latigo Ranch, and free public trails groomed by Headwaters Trails Alliance. Skiers can enjoy reliable snow from early November through mid-April, with even longer seasons in the backcountry. At elevations starting around 8,000 feet, the region offers diverse terrain, stunning views, and options for all skill levels.

Whether you prefer peaceful solitude or the thrill of local races, Grand County’s trails have something for everyone. Explore groomed classic and skate tracks or venture into the rugged backcountry for more adventure. With endless possibilities and breathtaking scenery, Grand County is a top destination for Nordic skiing enthusiasts.

Quick Facts

• Grand County Nordic Centers:
  • Snow Mountain Ranch
  • Devil’s Thumb
  • Grand Lake Touring Center
  • Latigo Ranch
  • Headwater Trails Alliance Groomed Public Trails
• 300km of Combined Trails
  • Grand County boasts "More Ks, more days" with the most groomed terrain in North America.

The Vibe at Grand County Nordic Centers

Grand County’s Nordic scene is known for its laid-back and friendly atmosphere with expansive mountain peak views. With the Continental Divide, Indian Peaks range, and the west entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park, guests are guaranteed a spectacular view. The local community takes pride in having endless options for trails—whether it's groomed loops at four Nordic centers or backcountry tours on public trails. With a variety of terrain available for skiers of all levels, the vibe is all about getting outside and enjoying the stunning surroundings, no matter your pace. Grand County hosts several local races throughout the winter, attracting skiers from all over. If solitude is more your style, a few kilometers away from any Nordic center’s clubhouse, you’ll find quiet trails where it's just you, the pristine snow, and most likely a moose!

Trail Highlights

• Best Short Loop: Meara’s go-to lunch ski is the "Lunch Loop" near her office in Fraser, which follows the Fraser River Trail and Marianne’s Trail for a scenic 5km trek through willows, ponds, and forests. Check out thistrail grooming map for trail details.
• Best Long Loop:For longer days, Meara enjoys the Black 10 at Devil’s Thumb Ranch or the challenging Blue Ridge and Lynchs at Snow Mountain Ranch. In the backcountry, her favorite is the Deadhorse Loop in the Fraser Experimental Forest. She also loves connecting the trails between Winter Park and Granby Ranch via the Fraser to Granby Trail, often turning it into a progressive lunch or dinner adventure.

Essential Packing Tips

• Buff: A versatile accessory that can be used as a neck warmer, hat, or headband.
• Ski Scraper and Quick Wax:Crucial for changing snow conditions.
• Layered Clothing: Meara always dresses in lightweight, non-cotton layers to stay comfortable.
• Safety Essentials:Water, food, a map, hand warmers, an emergency blanket, and a multi-tool are part of her go-to gear for longer outings.

Favorite Nordic Accessory

• Buff: Meara swears by this multipurpose accessory, which is useful for everything from neck warmth to protecting your ears and neck against wind and cold. In a pinch, it can be used as a hat.

Locals Favorites

• Best Grub:Meara’s top picks for post-ski meals include Pepe Osaka’s for Asian fusion tacos and infused margaritas, Hernando’s for pizza, and Fraser Valley Distillery for craft cocktails and an excellent grilled cheese sandwich.
• Best Craft Beverage Spot: After skiing, Meara enjoys the creative cocktails at Idlewild Distillery, wine from Adventures Decanted, and beers at Hideaway or Camber Brewing.

Environmental Stewardship

Meara emphasizes the importance of followingLeave No Trace principles when skiing in Colorado. She advises keeping a safe distance from wildlife, especially large animals like moose, and being mindful of the trails to minimize environmental impact. "We’re sharing the land with wildlife, and it’s our responsibility to protect it," she says.

Must-Know Trail Etiquette

• Be Kind and Courteous: Smile, say "Hi," and always be respectful of other trail users.
• Respect the Tracks: Stay off the classic tracks if you’re not classic skiing.
• Be Mindful of Your Pets:Follow Nordic center rules around leashing your dogs and keep them on dog-firendly trails. And don’t foget, pack out your pet waste.

Advice for Beginners

Layer up! "Wool baselayers and a good windbreaker are your best friends," she says. New to Nordic skiing, fat biking, or snowshoeing? Meara suggests grabbing adjustable poles, bar mitts for fat biking, and never leave home without quick wax—snow conditions can change fast!

Events and Gathering Spots

Meara recommends the Stagecoach Classic at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, commemorating the old stagecoach route over the Continental Divide, and the Snow Mountain Stampede, a 50km race that tests your endurance. For a more laid-back event, she enjoys the Progressive Ski Dinner hosted by Headwaters Trail Alliance, where participants ski by luminary light, stopping at different locations for food and drinks along the way.

Memorable Experience

One of Meara’s fondest memories is teaching her children to ski as toddlers, often alternating between skiing and riding in a sled. Her kids loved the adventure, yelling "Mush!" when they wanted to be towed along. These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong family tradition of skiing together, from moonlit treks for hot chocolate with her youngest to epic singletrack downhills with her older son, who is now on the US Ski Team for freestyle.

About Colorado Cross County Ski Association (CCCSA): The CCCSA is a member-based 501c6 nonprofit organization comprised of 17 Nordic resorts and 2 Nordic retailers. The CCCSA aims to define Colorado as a premier Nordic Destination, providing world-class skiing and snowshoeing to a diverse group of visitors while enhancing the visitor and local experience through engaging educational content. The CCCSA strives to promote sustainable, low-impact recreation and tourism while boosting economic activity in rural mountain communities. This CCCSA press release was supported by funding from the Colorado Tourism Office. 

About The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO): The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) is a division of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade. The mission of the CTO is to empower the tourism industry by inspiring the world to explore Colorado responsibly and respectfully. The Colorado Tourism Office seeks to advance the strength and resilience of the entire industry through collaboration, inclusivity, innovation, and leadership. In 2023, Colorado travelers spent $28.2 billion, generating $1.8 billion in local and state revenues, reducing the tax burden for every Colorado household by $800. For more information, please visit www.colorado.com.