The mountains of Central Colorado receive an abundance of snow each year, creating outstanding cross-country skiing conditions throughout the region. The Central Rockies have some of the most scenic cross-country ski trails in the nation with a wide variety of terrain among pine and aspen forests. Whether you are a beginner or an expert there are trails to match your experience. Some established routes follow high mountain jeep roads or hiking trails. They travel through historic mining districts, or lead you to mountain lakes. Other trails follows the abandoned route of the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad. Local companies and outfitters offer instruction, tours and clinics at various locations in the region. Backcountry huts linked by over 300 miles of trails are available for  backcountry travelers. A word of caution, always check local weather and avalanche conditions before entering the backcountry of Colorado.

Cross-Country Skiing Trails

General Backcountry Safety--This training program was prepared by Charley Shimanski of the Mountain Rescue Association Education Committee. It is an introductory course in backcountry safety for those with little or no experience in mountainous and backcountry terrain.

(All backcountry recreationist should read this. It could save your life in an emergency.)

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