For the uninitiated, Nordic skiing is “any type of skiing that isn’t downhill, aka alpine, skiing. It refers to non-fixed heel sports such as ski jumping, cross-country, skate-skiing, alpine touring (AT), and telemarking. Snowshoeing is a gray area, because it’s not skiing, but it is considered a Nordic sport,” says Chris Frado Executive Director/President of the Cross Country Ski Areas Association (CCSAA).

Once you get past the initial expense of investing in Nordic gear, you’ve got a free, easy way to access public trails and backcountry (note: do not attempt this unless you’re with someone experienced and in possession of their avalanche certification and you both have the appropriate emergency gear (beacon, probe, transceiver). I just keep my cross-country touring skis and boots in the back of my car all winter, and when I have a bit of time to spare, I pull over and step in. If you’re just visiting, Nordic rentals are easily obtained in Aspen at Ute Mountaineer, or in Ashcroft.

Pitkin County has over 60 miles of free cross-country and snowshoe trails to suit all levels- some of these areas are even dog-friendly. Check out the Roaring Fork Valley’s top spots for free-heeling it, lift tickets be damned.

Aspen Nordic Center

The Aspen Nordic Center is the ideal place to take a lesson and get details on the three free Nordic trail systems/centers in the Roaring Fork Valley (the others are Snowmass and Spring Gulch, deets below). Located on the Aspen Golf Course, it’s convenient, groomed, and particularly good for skate-skiing.

Snowmass Cross Country Center

Cross-country skiers enjoying the groomed nordic trails in Aspen.

Located on the Snowmass Golf Course, the Snowmass Cross Country Center provides over six miles of trails for Nordic pursuits; other trails lead up to Snowmass Mountain and to Aspen. You can also rent gear, and take group or private lessons tours.

Uphill Skiing in Aspen

A group of cross-country skiers in Aspen uphill skiing on a nordic trail.

Aspen is considered one of the most uphill-friendly ski resorts in the nation. This calorie-blasting pastime is fast becoming a major draw at all four Aspen-area ski resorts, where you can uphill on select routes. Consult the above link for details on access, permissible times, and downloads (some, but not all of the routes have chairlift or gondola access down the mountain). Reward yourself at the top of Tiehack or Elk Camp with breakfast or a cocktail.

Rio Grande Trail

Part of the former Denver-Rio Grande Railroad bed, this multi-use, riverside bike path begins at Herron Park in Aspen, and runs the length of the Roaring Fork Valley, all the way to Glenwood Springs, 41 miles away. Its ski-ability depends on snowfall (not it’s not groomed), but this season has made it possible for Nordic enthusiasts to access sections including Basalt to Carbondale- a rarity. It’s all stunning but the best stretches feature red sandstone formations and cross wooden railroad trestle bridges. If you end your tour in Carbondale, be sure to stop by Marble Distilling Co. for a well-earned drink.

Ashcroft Ghost Town

The Pine Creek Cookhouse in Aspen, open for nordic skiers on a winter night.

Image Courtesy of Pine Creek Cookhouse

Located 12 miles from Aspen up Castle Creek Road is the Ashcroft Ghost Town. This area is privately-owned and fee-based, in addition to rental fee, but you can sign up for tours or take in the 21 miles of groomed nordic trails around this famed ghost town on your own. Do be sure to stop by Pine Creek Cookhouse at some point for lunch (reservations recommended) or a toddy.

Spring Gulch

Spring Gulch is a privately-owned swath of land operated by the Mount Sopris Nordic Council, a local non-profit organization. There are 19 miles of (usually) groomed trails, access to which is made possible with the permission of the North Thompson Cattlemen’s Association and the Crystal River Ranch.

Aspen’s 10th Mountain Huts

A mountain hut for nordic skiers in Aspen, which is part of the 10th Mountain Hut System.

McNamara Hut. Image Courtesy of Laurel Miller

If your backcountry skills are up to snuff or you’re with experienced, avy-certified skier, nothing beats Colorado’s historic 10th Mountain Hut System which is headquartered in Aspen. The Aspen area itself is home to a number of the huts, including those that are operated by the Braun & Friends hut system. Accommodations range from rustic, dormitory-style beds to more stylish digs with private rooms; some huts have saunas. Be sure to book as far in advance as possible. For guided tours, contact Aspen Expeditions.

If you are an avid nordic skier and are looking for a home base for your adventure, make sure to check out the multi-night stay offers at the Limelight Hotel.

About Laurel Miller

Laurel is a Basalt-based food and travel writer, cheese consultant and the editor of Edible Aspen magazine. When not sitting in front of her computer in her pj's, Laurel can be found enjoying the outdoors, or backpacking around the world eating street food and acquiring new and exciting tropical diseases.