Postcard views, endless terrain—for Nordic skiers missing their time in the mountains, trail running is the perfect summer pivot.
Summer trail running in the Colorado mountains is more than just a great escape—it's the perfect off‑season workout for Nordic skiers. Tackling ups and downs on uneven trails challenges your cardiovascular system and muscular endurance in ways that mirror long ski days. Dodging rocks and roots forces your core, ankles, glutes, and stabilizers into action—building balance and strength essential for skiing. Power hiking uphill and navigating technical footing on trails mimics the push-and-glide ski stride, while also training you to maintain effective fueling strategies during endurance efforts.
Plus, navigating changing terrain teaches neuromuscular adaptability, helping reduce overuse injuries by enhancing movement awareness and control. Best part? Trail runs keep you smiling in the mountains well into the summer, without a snowflake in sight. So pick an event or race to aim for, train up, and we'll see you there.
Mountain Trail Running Training Tips
Mimic the mountains
Seek trails with rhythm: roll into climbs, cruise down the other side, practice dodging tree roots.
Use effort, not pace
Trail pace often defies GPS; instead, listen to your heart rate and muscles.
Strength matters
Add lunges, single-leg hops, and balance drills into your routine to build trail resilience.
Climb smart
Power hike the uphills, focus on quick-step footing downhill, and consider using poles for extra stability.
Walk on the steep
Hey, go-fasters, take note: Walking steep sections saves energy and lets you run stronger later.
Trail Etiquette
- Heads up! A cheerful "on your left!" clears the way.
- Right-of-way rules. Yield to Uphill runners, hikers, and horses.
- Leave no trace. Everything you carry in, bring out—no excuses, no dog waste bags knotted and dropped to pick up later. By doing your part, you help to ensure a trash-free nature experience for your future adventures.
- Keep it serene. Trails are sanctuaries for people and critters alike. Keep the music low, or better yet, turn the headphones off—more mindfulness creates body awareness and can help build endurance.
Colorado Trail Run Events to Try
Aspen Parkrun (Saturdays, 9 AM, Herron Park, Aspen)
Register once at parkrun.us/aspen to get your personal barcode—then you're set for weekly 5 K fun through Oct 25, 2025
Training tip: Treat it like a tempo run—gentle start, pace up mid-course, strong finish. Use it to lock in race-day fueling practice with light gels or hydration.
Mountain Goat Kids' Trail Running Series (Frisco Adventure Park, July 15 & 29)
Register kids online for $15 per race or $45 for the series; day-of registration opens from 5:00 to 5:30 PM.
Training tip: Short and playful—prioritize fun and light variety workouts. Add an easy trail twice a week to build comfort off-road, with no pressure on time or pace.
Vail Berry Picker Trail Run (Gondola One to Mid-Vail, August 2)
Register via Vail Rec (event price: $40 online, day-of varies).
Training tip: Build leg strength with loaded hill workouts. Include core stability and hip drive drills—perfect prep for that sustained 14% gradient.
Run the Rockies Trail Races (Frisco Peninsula, August 9)
Sign up through the Town of Frisco events page: 5 K/10 K/half‑marathon divisions, adult fees $40–$75
Training tip: Tailor your plan to the distance. For a 5K, add speed and fartlek training; for a half-marathon, build long trails to prepare for 10–13 miles. Don't forget to do hill work twice a week.
Race Checklist
Gear
Trail shoes with grip, a hydration vest, weather-appropriate layers, a headlamp (for early starts), a whistle, and an emergency blanket.
Fuel & fluids
Hydration + electrolytes + trusted bars or gels—experiment early in training.
Know-your-course
Study the map, elevation profile, aid stations, and cut-off times.
Extras
Phone (yes—even with patchy reception), sunscreen, anti-chafe balm, bug spray, and basic first aid.
Race-day logistics
Register early, book lodging ASAP (trail race weekends fill fast), and sort parking or shuttles in advance.
Trail running offers Nordic skiers a fun, challenging way to stay fit and connected to the mountains through the summer. With the right training, gear, and a few local events on the calendar, it becomes more than just a workout—it’s a way to build strength, endurance, and joy that carries into the winter season. So pick a race, hit the trails, and keep the mountain spirit alive year-round.