Downtown Crested Butte is surrounded by miles of breathtaking trails for nordic skiing that will please beginner, intermediate and expert skiers.
Crested Butte Nordic Center
The Crested Butte Nordic Center grooms over 30 miles of trail for skiers of all abilities on its immaculately groomed skate and classic trails. Trails are varied in terrain, offer amazing views, and are easily accessible. Many of these trails are just steps away from the lodging properties in downtown Crested Butte. The Nordic Center also rents gear if you don’t have your own or you want to try a different setup for the day. Dogs are welcome on designated trails only.
-Visit the CB Nordic Center for more information on pricing, trails, and daily grooming report.
Ski / Snowshoe Moonlight Dinners
The Magic Meadows Yurt is nestled among the pines and surrounded by peaks in the peaceful setting of Magic Meadows, easily accessible from downtown Crested Butte. Ski or snowshoe there — guided or on your own — dinner in the moonlight. Warm and cozy, comfortably furnished and ready for you to build a crackling fire. For the average skier, it takes 30 – 45 minutes to arrive at the yurt.
-Get more information on Moonlight Dinners
Nordic Events
Crested Butte hosts a number of fun, competitive, and unique nordic skiing events throughout the winter.
The annual Thanksgiving Camp kicks off the Nordic Skiing season in Crested Butte. The camp offers beginning, intermediate, and advanced skate and classic clinics, as well as clinics for women only and Masters racers.
-Get more information on Thanksgiving Camp
The annual Alley Loop Nordic Marathon takes place in early-February. This race is part of the American Ski Marathon Series and is an American Birkebeiner qualifier. Starting and finishing on Elk Avenue and winding through alleyways, streets and trails located on the outskirts of town, Alley Loop features course lengths of 1.5K, 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K and 42K allowing all skill levels and ages to participate (many in costume).
-Get more information on the Alley Loop
Visit the Calendar of Events for a complete listing of Nordic Skiing events in Crested Butte
Nordic Skiing Clinics
The Crested Butte Nordic Center offers a variety of skiing clinics throughout the season. Topics range from beginner skate skiing to waxing to classic skiing technique. They also offer a learn to Skate Ski 4 Free class the first Thursday of every month for those looking for an introduction to skate skiing.
-Visit the CB Nordic Center for more information
Backcountry Skiing and Guided Tours
The nearby Slate River Valley and Washington Gulch, as well as several other pristine locations, are great places to explore and venture off into the nearby backcountry.
Crested Butte Mountain Guides offers half-day and full-day guided tours. Get off the groomed trails, and deep into the wilderness surrounding Crested Butte.
-Visit Crested Butte Mountain Guides for more information.
The CB Nordic Center backcountry ski and snowshoe tours will give you a chance to explore the spectacular terrain around Crested Butte with the security of an experienced guide. A guided tour is a terrific way to enjoy a half-day winter adventure. All tours are led by friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced guides.
-Visit the CB Nordic Center website for more information
