Cross Country Skiing
Steamboat Springs has everything to complete a cross country skiing adventure of any type: Nordic centers with groomed trails, instructors and more; backcountry access into breathtaking mountain views; even yurts for multi-day epic trips.
Find it here:
- Between Howelsen Hill, Rabbit Ears Pass, and Pearl Lake, the cross country terrain is stellar.
- A day on cross country skis can be a relaxing, family-oriented affair at one of the Nordic Centers.
- There is backcountry access reserved to non-motorized sports, assuring a quiet, peaceful excursion.
- Under-used state parks become perfect areas in winter.
Overview
Cross country skiing has a long history in Colorado, including all three styles: classic Nordic skiing, ski touring and skate skiing.
- The classic style feels a lot like running or hiking on snow. It is a great activity for beginning skiers or families.
- Nordic ski touring is very similar to classic cross country skiing, except the skis have metal edges and “fish scales” that prevent the skis from sliding backwards. These are the skis generally used on multi-day backcountry trips.
- Skate skiing is the newest member of the cross country ski family. While it may prove difficult to master, it provides a fun, full body workout on a groomed track.
Where to go Cross Country Skiing
Rabbit Ears Pass
If you've been exploring this site for some time, you may have noticed that Rabbit Ears Pass consistently comes up as a place for backcountry activity of all sorts. There is a great reason for this: it's truly that versatile and exciting.
Cross country skiers have a quality selection of trails on the pass, mostly easy and moderate, with some expert terrain available to the adventurous.
Rabbit Ears Pass is 14 miles southeast of town on US 40.
Stagecoach State Park
While its 780-acre reservoir acts as a focal point of activity year-round, winter is quiet and reserved for the cross country skiers and snowshoers who venture out to this pleasant trail system, including 8 miles of trails to explore.
Stagecoach is located 16 miles south of Steamboat, taking Hwy 40 to CO-131, then turning onto Co Rd 14.
Pearl Lake State Park
It may be small, but this state park is a true gem. Nestled right against the Routt National Forest, this state park has two yurts for multi-day adventures, including the incredible option of cross country skiing into the remote backcountry. Make the reservations early, as they fill up quickly.
Pearl Lake is north of Steamboat Springs about 25 miles. Head north on County Rd. 129, past Clark, taking a right on County Rd. 209.
Nordic Centers
Steamboat Springs is a bustling area for cross country skiing including numerous Nordic centers that provide groomed trails, rentals, instruction and other services. Take a look at some of the companies below to find out which of the many options are best suited for your group.
Rentals & Fees
Shops in Steamboat Springs provide a wide array of equipment rentals, including telemark skis, cross country skis of all varieties, and other necessary gear for a great cross country ski excursion.
Nordic Centers usually have packages for pass and rental bundles, as well as family and group discounts.
Hire a Guide
Consider hiring a guide for logistical and safety reasons, on top of the guiding aspect to the job. The backcountry is an easy place to get lost, but a local guide will be able to navigate the group through terrain suitable for everyone, in addition to handing out pointers to improve technique.
Safety
Though not as dangerous as backcountry downhill skiing, cross country skiing outside of patrolled areas still exposes the group to avalanches and other winter dangers, so it's important to be knowledgeable and prepared for the unexpected.
