Our calendars are brimming this time of year in the Colorado mountains. Take a break from your routines and explore some of these must-do events for a little something new… Here are some of 2025’s standout Nordic Center events.
(Check the calendar for event details, start times, fees, and registration links, and even more fun stuff to pop onto your calendar).
For the Learning-to-Race Crowd: Frisco Nordic Race Series Classic Ski, February 5
This new event from Frisco Nordic Center and Team Summit invites racers of all ages and abilities to hop in and try a free 5K. While February 5th welcomes classic racers, the ongoing series alternates between skate and classic; sign up at the Frisco Nordic Center lodge at 5 p.m. day of, and races start at 5:30. (See? No fuss, no chance to chicken out.) Headlamps are encouraged.
For Those Who Love the Scenic Route: 2025 Ranch 2 Ranch, February 8
Start at Snow Mountain Ranch where trails will wind you all the way to the Granby Ranch trail system, complete with some of the most jaw-dropping Divide and valley views in the region. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with your friends for a day of great conversion or break a sweat on this once-a-year groomed trail. This well-supported event has two options—12K one way, or 24K out and back.
For Skiers Who Love it All: Devil’s Thumb Ranch Skiathalon Race 2025, February 22
If you’re a Grand County Nordic skier, then you likely knew Bill Chambers, a long time local who loved Nordic skiing and his mountain community with an irrepressible joy. This second annual 12K skiathlon in his memory consists of both classic and skate—Bill loved both. You can compete solo or as a two-person team, including all-male, all-female or co-ed categories. Registration includes a post-race get-together in the Broad Axe Barn with chili and beer (pssst—the Wagyu chili is legend, but there’s vegan for the non-meat-eaters too).
For the Luxury Lover: AVSC Nordic Bonfire Dinner, February 22
There’s a bit of magic to this one—ski candlelit tracks around the Aspen Nordic Center and sample the best of Aspen’s fine-dining scene. And there’s a reward at your last stop: Live music, desserts, and drinks to warm you. Pro tip: This is a popular event; if you need to rent skis on-site, dress warm in case there’s a bit of a wait.
For Those Who Adore an Insider Tip: Meadow Mountain Skimo and Snowshoe Race, March 1
Vail Nordic Center Director Dan Timm has a confession to make: of all the events Vail hosts (and they have tons), his fave Nordic center event of the year is skimo. For the uninitiated, ski mountaineering, or skimo, leans on free-heel backcountry skills tested on a course of uphill and downhill sections requiring skinning, hiking, and fixed-heel descents. In other words, eat a huge breakfast and get your crazy on. New this year: A snowshoe category, hosted on a separate course.
For the Fearless and Slightly Crazy: Latigo Skate Race, March 1
Any chance to hang out at the beautiful Latigo Ranch is draw enough, but the skate course this year—a challenging and technical ride—is designed by Shawn “Big Shooter” Scholl… the Grand County legend who competed in Olympic trials for rowing, cycling, and Nordic. (Translation: Unstoppable engine, limbs for days, and a terrifying VO2 max.) Long, short, and junior courses welcome all abilities; be sure to register by 2/28, as there is no day-of registration available.