How to Train for the Colorado Grand Traverse

Read these training tips for the Grand Traverse in Crested Butte, Colorado:

Training for the Colorado Grand Traverse requires preparation, smart gear choices, and focused practice long before race day. From registering early and dialing in comfortable equipment to building race-specific fitness and learning from experienced athletes, success comes from consistent, intentional training. Quality workouts, real race simulations, and time on your gear are key to being ready for this demanding backcountry ski challenge.

• Registration opens at midnight on December 1 and fills quickly.
• Prioritize comfort and familiarity with your boots, pack, and clothing for long hours in the mountains.
• Practice skinning, transitions, and skiing in varied conditions to build confidence and efficiency.
• Train smart with quality workouts, consider racing in tune-up events like the Gothic Mountain Tour, and learn from experienced Grand Traverse athletes.

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#1 Late bird catches the worm

On December 1st, set those alarms for 12:00 am (midnight), and make sure your computer is charged, because at 12:01 am, registration for the Colorado Grand Traverse opens, and it won’t be open for long! This year, it was only open for 10 hours.

#2 Go for comfort

Yes, lightness makes a difference, but make sure your boots, pants, and pack are comfortable because you will be spending quite a bit of time in them. In addition, get comfortable IN your gear. Get used to what you will be skiing in and make certain you are happy in it!

#3 Practice makes (close to) perfect

Spend time on your gear. There’s no set time or distance one must spend on their gear, but just make sure to actually practice using your gear. From skinning up Crested Butte Mountain Resort, or practicing gliding on one of the many Nordic trails, make sure you’re using your gear and getting used to it.

#4 Race!

Put that practice and those tips to the test. Practicing for race day by entering a race is a great way to prep you for the real thing. The Gothic Mountain Tour is an official Grand Traverse Training Race that will lead you on the right track.

#5 Quality, not quantity!

As a 3rd grade teacher, finding time to train during the week isn’t easy. Therefore, I make my workouts quality. I have an hour before school, where I push hard going up and enjoy the down. After school, I try to get another workout in, and for me, it’s quality over quantity, and I make my ski workouts worthwhile. Weekends are a great time for me to put miles on my legs and skis, and I don’t focus on pushing hard, but rather getting used to being out for a longer amount of time.