The Vibe

Something for Everyone

With 120 kilometers of impeccably groomed trails set against the stunning Rockies, it's an eco-friendly haven where you can ski with peace of mind. High altitude means great snow and a little zip in your glide. After a day on the trails, unwind with friendly smiles, top-notch dining, and a little spa pampering. It’s not just skiing—it’s an experience wrapped in mountain luxury and hearty hospitality!

Tips for Beginners

If you're just starting out, glide your way from the Meadow to the Sawmill Loop—it's a scenic and forgiving introduction to the sport.

– Janet Conneely

Take a lesson when starting out. It’s the best way to ensure your enjoyment of the sport. A lesson will get you off on the right “ski” from the start.

– Sue French Smith

Layer up! Wool baselayers and a good windbreaker are your best friends.

– Meara McQuain

Black Ten Trail

For those who've already cut their teeth on the snow and are looking for a bit more thrill, the Black Ten trail is a must-try, offering exhilarating challenges that are perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers.

– Janet Conneely

The Crepe Shack

Don’t skip the crepe shack on Saturdays: buy your ticket in the Nordic shop, ski roughly 2 miles, and turn in your ticket for a crepe mid-ski. 

– Sue French Smith

Favorite Short Loop

Meadow/Broken Barn Loop

I love the Meadow/Broken Barn loop at Devil's Thumb! It's so conveniently located, and the trail's laid-back, cruising vibe makes for a relaxing glide. Even seasoned skiers will find plenty of charm on these gentle paths.

– Janet Conneely

Left Field

About a mile long and impeccably groomed daily, this loop is perfect for a quick workout.

– Sue French Smith

Favorite Long Loop

Any mix of Blue Extra, Disco, Waxwing, and Lactic Grande, and the old "Black Ten"

Combine them all, and you’re in for a real treat. And don’t forget the old "Black Ten" – it's a classic for a reason. 

– Janet Conneely

Blue Extra with loops around Swindler and Sawmill

This trail offers stunning scenery and a variety of terrain. Swindler and Sawmill are great for setting a rhythm on skate skis.

– Sue French Smith

Black Ten

For longer days, I enjoy the Black 10.

– Meara McQuain

Must Bring Items

iPod

Packing an iPod for a Nordic ski adventure is like having a secret superpower! There’s nothing quite like a killer playlist to keep your spirits high and your legs moving, turning each stride into a dance move. Plus, when the going gets tough, those upbeat jams distract you from the cold and the burn, making the miles fly by.

– Janet Conneely

Sunscreen

The high-altitude sun is no joke, so don’t forget to protect your skin. Even on cloudy days, UV rays are strong, so slather on that SPF before hitting the trails.

– Sue French Smith

Buff

This multipurpose accessory 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.

– Meara McQuain

Trail Etiquette

Courtesy on the Trails

Being courteous on the trails isn't just good manners—it's the secret sauce that keeps the ski vibes high and the glides smooth. First up, always stick to the right when you're cruising along, just like you would on a road. This lets faster skiers pass by without a game of snow tag. And speaking of passing, give a friendly shout or a quick "On your left!" to let others know you're zooming through. 

– Janet Conneely

Respect the Trails

Don’t walk on ski tracks.

– Sue French Smith

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.

– Meara McQuain

Nature Tips

Soak In Your Surroundings

Remember to take a moment to soak in the surroundings. The tranquility of the trails offers the perfect backdrop to appreciate Colorado's stunning natural beauty. If you pause, it's amazing what you can hear and see.

– Janet Conneely

Give Moose Distance

Moose are common in the area, so it's important to keep your distance, especially if calves are around. For a fun scavenger adventure, look for animal tracks in the snow and try to find as many as possible.

– Sue French Smith

Minimize Environmental Impact

We’re sharing the land with wildlife, and it’s our responsibility to protect it.

– Meara McQuain

Local Nordic Experts

Janet Conneely

Age: 66

Years Skiing: 12+

Janet's Nordic Tips

Meara McQuain

Meara McQuain

Age: 49

Years Skiing: 10+

Meara's Nordic Tips

Sue French Smith

Sue French Smith

Age: 65

Years Skiing: 10+

Sue's Nordic Tips

Help protect Colorado's natural beauty for future generations

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Proudly funded by the Colorado Tourism Office