Cross Country Skiing in Aspen | Miller Sports Aspen

Aspen’s Nordic Paradise

Aspen isn’t just about downhill skiing. With the largest free Nordic trail network in the country, the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System offers over 60 miles of beautifully groomed cross-country trails connecting Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt. Whether you’re brand new to the sport or a seasoned racer, Aspen’s Nordic scene delivers everything from beginner loops to challenging endurance routes — all framed by the stunning peaks of the Elk Mountains.

Man cross country skiing in Aspen

Where to Start

For beginners, the best place to start is the Aspen Cross Country Center at the Aspen Golf Course. It’s the hub for rentals, gear sales, and lessons, and its gently rolling terrain is ideal for learning technique. You can take a lesson with an instructor or simply head out on your own. Start with a few laps on the practice loop, then explore the scenic trails with views of the ski mountains and Independence Pass.

Intermediate & Advanced Trails

  • Moore & Marolt Open Spaces – Close to downtown Aspen, these trails offer a little more variety and challenge than the Golf Course.
  • Aspen High School Trails – Situated near the base of Aspen Highlands, this network offers steeper, more technical terrain — a favorite workout spot for locals.
  • Snowmass Nordic Trails – Based out of the Snowmass Golf Course, the Snowmass Cross Country Center has its own rental shop and lessons. The terrain is hillier than Aspen’s golf course trails, providing a strong workout.

For a true Aspen endurance experience, ski the Owl Creek Trail — a stunning route that links Aspen and Snowmass. Some locals ski the full out-and-back, with a refuel stop at the Two Creeks base area. Advanced skiers can add on the challenging Terminator Loop near Snowmass, which lives up to its name with steep climbing and demanding terrain.

Nordic skiing course in Aspen Snowmass

Scenic & Unique Routes

  • Rio Grande Trail – Groomed from Aspen to Basalt when snowpack allows, this gentle riverside route is perfect for longer, steady skis.
  • Maroon Bells (T-Lazy-7 Ranch) – A spectacular ski up the snow-covered road to Colorado’s most photographed peaks. Groomed regularly, but subject to closures during high avalanche danger.
  • Castle Creek / Pine Creek Cookhouse – Ski through one of Aspen’s most beautiful valleys to the Pine Creek Cookhouse, where gourmet dining awaits. This fee-based trail is a bucket-list experience that combines exercise and atmosphere in a truly special way.

Nordic Events in Aspen

Aspen’s Nordic community is vibrant, with races and events throughout the season. Highlights include the Owl Creek Chase, a premier long-distance race that draws elite and recreational skiers alike, and the Aspen Nordic Festival, which celebrates the culture of skiing with competitions and community gatherings. Weekly races and clinics through the Aspen Cross Country Center keep the stoke alive all winter long.

Classic vs. Skate Skiing

Classic Skiing uses skis with scales or grip wax for traction and a straight-line kick-and-glide motion. Groomed tracks are set to keep your skis moving smoothly, and it’s the perfect style for beginners.

Skate Skiing is faster and more dynamic, requiring a skating motion with skis and a V-shaped push-off. It’s a powerful full-body workout and best enjoyed on wide, groomed trails.

Both styles are popular in Aspen, and the Nordic trail system is groomed daily to support both techniques.

Woman cross country skiing in Aspen wearing Colturi ski wear

Apparel for Cross Country Skiing

While Miller Sports doesn’t rent Nordic equipment, we carry a curated selection of apparel perfectly suited for cross-country skiing. Nordic skiing is a high-output sport where breathability, freedom of movement, and lightweight warmth matter more than heavy insulation. That’s where Crazy and Colturi shine.

  • Crazy – Known for its Italian design and performance-driven construction, Crazy offers lightweight jackets, stretch pants, and mid-layers ideal for skate or classic skiing. Their gear balances technical function with sleek style, making it perfect for Aspen’s Nordic trails.
  • Colturi – Focused on high-performance mountain wear, Colturi blends warmth and ventilation with a refined aesthetic. Their layering pieces and softshells excel in aerobic winter activities like cross-country skiing, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable even on longer outings.

Pairing pieces from Crazy or Colturi ski wear gives Nordic skiers the right mix of breathability, flexibility, and weather protection — all with the elevated look Aspen is known for. Whether you’re cruising the Golf Course loops, tackling Owl Creek, or skiing to Pine Creek Cookhouse, you’ll stay warm, dry, and stylish.