Thanksgiving Day opening expected for some Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System loops
Ray K. Erku/The Aspen Times
Aspen’s first snowfall is here, which means skiing is on everyone’s mind — including Nordic.
Luckily, the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System offers over 60 miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, which connects to Snowmass and Basalt.
Ute Mountaineer General Manager Paul Perley said Aspen’s Nordic trail system, with some loops expected to open by Thanksgiving Day, is one of the largest, free, cross-country ski networks in the United States. It offers locals and visitors a sustainable and cost-effective way to enjoy the outdoors in winter.
“We have 90 kilometers of free trails,” Perley said. “It stretches from North Star to the Aspen Golf Course, where it is more concentrated.”
He said the trails run to Snowmass via the Owl Creek Trail, and depending on the amount of snow, the trail continues as far down as possible on the Rio Grande Trail.
The Nordic trail system offers a look at the surrounding Elk Mountains and wilderness areas. Several of these free-to-use trails are accessible from town, making it convenient for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the winter landscape, even if it’s just during a lunch break.
Retired Ute Mountaineer owner and current Aspen Snowmass Nordic Council member Bob Wade said that the Aspen Nordic Center got its start when, in 1984, former US Ski Team member Craig Ward returned to his Aspen home after competing in Europe.
This led to the creation of the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System.
“He had seen these interconnect trails in Europe and was really impressed and motivated to create something similar in Aspen,” Wade said. “He saw the opportunity to connect the high school and the golf course to Snowmass with the Owl Creek Trail. That became the beginning of the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Council.”
He said the Ute Mountaineer is a direct result of Ward’s efforts.
“We took over the golf pro shop since it wasn’t being used in the wintertime and started running the Nordic program,” he said. “Ward was really the guy who pulled all these separate parts together to make all of this happen.”
Importance of the trails
The trails are a recreational asset and contribute significantly to Aspen’s identity as a winter sports destination. They provide an environmentally-friendly alternative to the more commercial alpine skiing, aligning with Aspen’s broader sustainability goals.
“It’s all human-powered,” said Perley. “I do not want to take anything away from SkiCo because they do an amazing job with sustainably operating the resorts and balancing the environmental concerns, but besides snowcats to groom the trails, there is little impact on the environment.”
He mentioned that the Aspen Nordic Center has been putting a focus on the type of wax that they use on skis over the past couple of years, so that there is less residue left when the snow melts.
Local schools and athletes continue to use the trails for training, and they also serve as the venue for races and community events throughout the winter season, including the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club (AVSC).
Beyond recreation, these trails offer residents and visitors a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of Aspen’s natural landscape. Whether skiing beneath the shadow of the Maroon Bells or gliding alongside the Roaring Fork River, the Nordic Trail System connects the community to the land in a way that is both immersive and respectful of the environment.
More information on the Aspen Nordic Center can be found at aspennordic.com.
Key trails in the system
Aspen Golf Course Loop
This three-mile trail, just minutes from town, is a local favorite for beginner skiers or anyone seeking an easy outing. With stunning views of Aspen Mountain and Mount Sopris, it offers a quick, scenic escape.
The loop is located at 39551 Colorado Highway 82, Suite 1.
Maroon Bells Trail
Known for its iconic views of the Maroon Bells, this 6.5-mile trail offers a moderate challenge. Ideal for both classic and skate skiing, it takes you through picturesque terrain, with the majestic peaks serving as a backdrop.
The trailhead can be accessed by taking Maroon Creek Road to TLazy7 Ranch wintertime closure.
Rio Grande Trail
This 42-mile trail, stretching along the old Denver and Rio Grande Railroad route, connects Aspen to Glenwood Springs. In winter, the segment from Aspen to Basalt is groomed for Nordic skiing, offering a gentle, scenic option for beginners and intermediates alike.
The Rio Grande Trail is typically accessed locally at Mill Street bridge over the Roaring Fork River or from the Cemetery Lane/Slaughterhouse Bridge.
Owl Creek Trail
This 9-mile trail links Aspen and Snowmass, winding through aspen groves and open meadows. In winter, it’s groomed for Nordic skiing, providing a moderately challenging route with stunning views of the Elk Mountains, ideal for those seeking a serene, backcountry experience.
“I love doing the Owl Creek Trail when I have time, especially on a nice, cold, crisp morning,” Perley said. “I love going from Aspen to Snowmass because there are gradual uphills.”
Parking is located at either end of the trail at the Snowmass XC Center and the Aspen Cross Country Center, or at intermediate points along the trail at the Aspen Recreation Center, the base of Tiehack on the Buttermilk Ski Area, West Buttermilk Road, or at the Tom Blake Trailhead in Snowmass, it states on Aspen Nordic online.
North Star Nature Preserve
Located east of Aspen, this peaceful 4-mile trail meanders through protected wilderness with views of the Roaring Fork River and local wildlife habitats. The serene setting makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet, nature-focused experience, although some areas are restricted to protect wildlife.
The trailhead is two miles east of Aspen on Colorado Highway 82.
Snowmass Golf Course Loop
A 9-mile loop through Snowmass, this trail offers a mix of beginner and intermediate terrain. Its open, rolling landscapes and breathtaking views of nearby peaks and valleys make it a great way to explore Snowmass on skis.
Parking for this loop is located at the XC Center off Brush Creek Road.
Basalt High School Trail
Advanced skiers will appreciate these challenging loops, featuring significant elevation gains and fast descents. Perfect for those aiming to enhance their endurance and technique.
The trail is located at 600 Southside Drive in Basalt.
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