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Ski, Sip, and Savor: Elevation Your Cross-Country Skiing Experience with Colorado Craft Beers

Thursday, October 12, 2023 For Immediate Release Download PDF

Fraser, CO. - The allure of the Colorado Mountains lies not only in the crisp mountain air and expansive groomed Nordic tracks but also in the delectable world of craft brews awaiting enthusiasts like yourself.

Why limit your ski day to just the slopes when you can extend it into the evening, making it an overnight escapade? Take a detour to a cherished local watering hole to raise a glass and revel in the satisfaction of a splendid day on the ski trails.

And here's the scientific nudge you need: According to a systematic review published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, opting for a lighter beer (4% ABV or less) can contribute to rehydration. The carbohydrates and sodium it contains provide additional benefits and let's not forget the bonus—beer is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and antiviral plant compounds that can bolster your immune system.

So, whether you secure a designated driver or book a cozy room, treat yourself to a well-deserved pint after your next Nordic ski day.

Breckenridge

  • Tracks: Breckenridge Nordic, boasting 2,000 acres at 9,800 feet, ensuring optimal conditions throughout the season.
  • Hangout: Rocky Mountain Underground is a laid-back haven exuding a distinct mountain-lifestyle vibe. It's employee-owned, carbon-neutral, and seamlessly connected to their bike and ski shop on Main Street.
    • Pour: Indulge in the Escape to Colorado IPA.
    • Bite: Try the tantalizing Jalapeño Poppin' sandwich, featuring jalapeño, bacon, blackberry jam, red onion, white cheddar, and muenster cheese.

Grand Lake

  • Tracks: Grand Lake Nordic is a hidden gem with roller-coaster-like intersecting trails for exhilarating and fast-paced laps.
  • Hangout: World's End Brewpub is a charming, on-the-boardwalk, in-town establishment serving up small-batch in-house brews and craft beers worldwide.
    • Pour: Savor The Reverend Belgian-style quadrupel ale.
    • Bite: Indulge in the jumbo Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese for the perfect dipping experience.

Tabernash

  • Tracks: Explore the wooded terrain near the cabins at Snow Mountain Ranch, where late-season snow lingers, creating a picturesque setting.
  • Hangout: Head down the road to Fraser and discover the charm of Fraser River Beer Company.
    • Pour: Indulge in the local favorite, Byers Peak Brown, a smooth and easy-drinking delight.
    • Bite: Elevate your experience with a walking taco from Shred's Taco food truck conveniently parked out front.

Beaver Creek

  • Tracks: Traverse the lift-served Nordic trails at Beaver Creek, offering multi-use paths with awe-inspiring, above-it-all views.
  • Hangout: Immerse yourself in the modern, chef-driven ambiance of Craftsman Brew Co. in Edwards.
    • Pour: Quench your thirst with DESTIHL cherry pie sour ale.
    • Bite: Delight your palate with artisanal apps like coal-roasted yams paired with lime yogurt, brown butter, hazelnut, and cilantro.

Eldora

  • Tracks: Conquer the exhilarating climbs and wicked descents of Eldora Resort, a haven for fitness enthusiasts.
  • Hangout: Experience the attitude and ambiance at Busey Brews, a family-run joint in Nederland.
    • Pour: Sip on the refreshing Cerveza mi Face-ah Mexican lager.
    • Bite: Indulge in the award-winning house-smoked wings, hailed as the "best in Boulder" – don't miss the Ned Dry Rub.

Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and flavor as you ski, sip, and savor through the unparalleled beauty of Colorado's Nordic wonderlands.

About Colorado Cross County Ski Association: 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.

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 2022, Colorado travelers spent $27.7 billion, generating $1.7 billion in local and state revenues, reducing the tax burden for every Colorado household by $760. For more information, please visit www.colorado.com.

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