The Crested Butte Nordic Center has trails for cross-country skiers of all abilities. A pass is required to use Crested Butte Nordic trails. All trails are groomed for both types of cross-country skiing:

• Classic skiing is a style of skiing where you glide your skis forward, parallel to each other. Classic skiers travel in the grooves on the side of the groomed track.
• Skate skiing looks like roller skating. A skate skier angles their skis out to the side and glides forward. Skate skiers usually move at a faster pace than classic skiers. Skate skiers travel in the center of the groomed track.

The rating system for Nordic skiing is the same as downhill skiing:

• Green trails are easiest. These trails are generally flat. 
• Blue trails are intermediate and may include some hills or curves.
• Black trails are difficult. Skiers need the skills to navigate steep slopes and sharp curves.
• Double-black trails are expert. Expect very steep, sustained inclines.

The scenery and difficulty of Crested Butte Nordic Center trails vary based on their location:

• The Bench trails are located south of the Crested Butte Nordic Center, on the ridge known as the Bench. These trails are blue and black and wind through the woods. There are a few steep hills on some trails.
• The West Side trails are on the west side of town near Peanut Lake Road. This area has the most variety of trails in terms of terrain and ability level. Find green, blue and black trails in the woods and meadows. Enjoy sweeping views of Peanut Lake and Crested Butte (the mountain). Many of the trails parallel the Slate River. Watch for moose!
• The East Side trails are located in the valley between Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. Few skiers venture into this scenic zone underneath the west flank of Crested Butte, so you might have the place to yourself! Explore this area for hilly, advanced trails. Many trails dip in and out of aspen groves. 

Explore Crested Butte Nordic’s trails on a map that includes a real-time grooming report.

The trails at the Crested Butte Nordic Center are groomed, scenic and have a remote feel while close to town. You can ski trails that feel like the backcountry without having to venture into the backcountry. The trails are also signed to help skiers avoid getting lost. The staff is knowledgeable and ready to help with questions about gear and trails. 

Crested Butte Nordic offers adult, youth and family skiing lessons. Lessons are perfect for first-timers and those who want to hone their skills. Lessons are available for classic and skate skiing. All lessons come with gear and a day pass to the Nordic Center. 

Classic and skate skis and snowshoe rentals are also available from Crested Butte Nordic. Rentals are great for testing out gear. They’re also a good option if you’re traveling and don’t want to bring your own gear. 

All Crested Butte Nordic Center trails can also be used for snowshoeing.

Some of the trails are open to fat biking. Make sure the trail you want to ride allows fat bikes before you head out. You must have a Nordic Center pass to snowshoe or fat bike. Be courteous to other trail users, and avoid walking or riding in the parallel classic track.

The Town of Crested Butte operated the Big Mine Ice Arena, which offers ice skating adjacent to the Nordic Center. Skate rentals are available if you don’t have your own.

Some of the summer trails adjacent to downtown Crested Butte, including Woods Walk and Lower Loop, are closed to winter use. Please stay off these trails after the snow falls. These trails pass through private property. Learn more about public ski and snowshoe trails by clicking the button below.

Love sliding on snow? Check out downhill skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Downhill skiing (also called alpine skiing) is fast and exciting—and unlike cross-country skiing, a lift carries you uphill! Learn more about skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort at the link below.