Let’s admit it—as skiers we’re creatures of habit; we may have invested in season passes or even a second home in our favorite places to cross-country ski, making it easy enough to focus on just one spot.
But why not mix it up and plan some trips? Our brains crave what a destination ski weekend can do for us—not just the variety of trails and terrain, but the very act of traveling somewhere different has anti-aging effects. A new study out of Edith Cowan University in Australia found that traveling can potentially slow signs of aging and yield positive health benefits.
When you pivot from daily life and routine, you’re often trying things you usually don’t do, like meeting new people, participating in more relaxing activities or exercise, and getting more sleep. The study findings suggested that new settings and environments can elevate metabolic rates, and more calming travel-related activities like yoga or spa time can help with chronic stress—all of which slow age-related decline. Bonus.
Planning pro tip: With a CCCSA 2024-25 punch pass, you can get your travel on and visit eight Nordic centers at some of Colorado's most desirable mountain destinations, plus unlimited skiing at Aspen Snowmass.
Here’s inspiration to get you trip planning.
Breckenridge Nordic, Gold Run Nordic
Grab a bite: Aurum, for inspired New American cuisine with an Asian kick—like hamachi crudo, Korean fried chicken, roast duck with fondant potatoes, and blackberry-duck jus.
Stay: The Breck Boutique Hotel has a walkable downtown location that lets you immerse in the vibes of Breckenridge.
Crested Butte Nordic Center
Grab a bite: Secret Stash Pizza, home to the Notorious F.I.G. pizza—prosciutto, mozz, bleu and asiago cheeses with figs and a drizzle of truffle oil made this the winner of the World Champion Pizza Challenge.
Stay: The Purple Mountain Lodge is a stylish, modern downtown B&B experience with gourmet breakfasts inspired by a nutritionist.
Frisco Nordic
Grab a bite: Opt for authentic and warming Nepalese dishes like lamb biryani at Himalayan Cuisine.
Stay: AC Hotel Frisco is a Marriott property with clean, modern vibes.
Keystone Nordic
Grab a bite: Keystone Ranch invites diners to cozy up in a historic homestead log lodge.
Stay: Keystone Lodge & Spa puts you in the heart of the village, with a full-service onsite spa for maximum relaxation.
Snow Mountain Ranch Nordic Center
Grab a bite: Order an allspice Old Fashioned, an Impossible Burger, and order of hand-cut fries with garlic aioli for sharing at the Distillery in nearby Fraser.
Stay: Book a hilltop cabin with valley views at Snow Mountain Ranch
Tennessee Pass Nordic Center
Grab a bite: You’re not leaving—the Cookhouse dinners here are legendary.
Stay: Get cozy at a fully furnished luxury yurt on property, complete with log beds and down comforters.
Vail Nordic
Grab a bite: Chasing Rabbits fuses sophisticated Mediterranean fare with a Colorado vibe; start at Moon Rabbit, their speakeasy-style bar.
Stay: Gravity Haus Vail has a curated, clubby feel and won design accolades from Conde Nast Traveler.
Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System
Grab a bite: Il Poggio in Snowmass has handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy environment.
Stay: Snowmass’ The Crestwood has lodge-style apartments that make great weekend basecamps.
We may love our home resorts and our routines, but making plans for destination ski weekends at different resorts is the perfect way to add adventure and variety into your winter—especially if you make it a mini vacation that’s just a bit off the beaten path.
2024-25 season punch passes are available now for $120 through November 10. Purchase yours today!