Best Cross Country Skiing in Colorado

Trying to find the best cross country skiing in Colorado? Bivy has great hiking, biking, paddling, climbing, skiing, riding and more, with hand-curated trail maps, as well as detailed driving directions.

1

Colorado, Summit County

09 :15 hrs
6.4 mi
342.04443 ft
Easy

Named after the Ancient Greek god of the North Wind, Boreas Pass Rd. can be used to access the Section House in the winter months by snowshoeing and skiing. No motorized vehicles are allowed in the winter. This road is a very consistent low angle climb to the top. Baker's Tank can be seen about halfway up. This was used to quench the thirst of the steam locomotives that traveled the Pass in the late 1800s. There are beautiful view all along the way of Breckenridge and the surrounding peaks of the continental divide. Depending on snow conditions, it may be too flat to snowboard or ski down from the top.

2

Colorado, Boulder County

02 :07 hrs
1.8 mi
43.564453 ft
Moderate

Caribou Ranch was used as a site to film movies between 1936-1971. Dogs and Bikes are prohibited during the summer months from April 1st -June 30th. There are still historic buildings that have been preserved. It offers a scenic trail with waterfalls, streams and animals to see. This trail requires a lot of snow and isn't usually ready till after January.

3

Colorado, Summit County

08 :19 hrs
5.1 mi
464.05127 ft
Extreme

North Tenmile Creek is an excellent winter adventure into the backcountry. Wichita Mountain and Chief Mountain tower around you as you travel through the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area. The trail begins climbing steeply and quickly right in the beginning but this is the steepest section. Ski poles for snowshoers is a good idea and if you are skiing skins will be helpful. Plan on a full day for this adventure.

4

Colorado, Summit County

11 :23 hrs
4.7 mi
844.94214 ft
Extreme

Crystal Creek Trail is a scenic backcountry trail that leads to Francie's Cabin which is a popular destination for skiers and snowshoers to stay the night. The trail continues on through old mining sites and to the Lower Crystal Lake and Upper Crystal Lake. The trail is ungroomed, easy to follow and has beautiful scenery all.

5

Colorado, Boulder County

14 :58 hrs
9.3 mi
816.71924 ft
Extreme

This route begins at the Middle Saint Vrain Campground and follows the Middle Saint Vrain Road to the beautiful high mountain Lake Gibralter. There is possible snowmobile traffic for the first 5 miles until the road ends and heads into the wilderness where motorized vehicles are prohibited. The climbing gets more difficult and rugged the further you go. Once you reach the lake there are awesome views in all directions. Be sure to start early and plan on a full day for this adventure.

6

Colorado, Jackson County

03 :30 hrs
3.3 mi
36.28296 ft
Easy

Michigan Ditch is a popular trail in the Cameron Pass area. It is mostly flat and makes for a nice family outing that caters to all skill levels. Choose your own turn around length. It is a quiet and scenic route that won't disappoint you.

7

Colorado, Larimer County

03 :46 hrs
1.7 mi
294.19116 ft
Expert

Montgomery Pass offers amazing terrain and views. It is challenging but popular for telemark skiing and snowboarding. The trailhead is located in the parking lot for Zimmerman Lake and is maintained and plowed throughout the winter. Be aware there is avalanche danger in this area so be sure to check local conditions.

8

Colorado, Pitkin County

15 :21 hrs
23.3 mi
1164.938 ft
Extreme

This classic route is long, technical and takes you deep into the rugged Elk Mountains via Pearl Pass Road. Consider staying at either Tagert or Friends Huts to make this a 2 day adventure. The route begins at the Ashcroft Ski Touring Center. Be sure to get a free trail pass from the Ashcroft Ski Touring Center. There are possible avalanche hazards so check the local conditions before you leave. This adventure is for experienced skiers only and done with a shuttle ride parked at the end.

9

Colorado, Grand County

00 :37 hrs
0.6 mi
9.540527 ft
Easy

This short trip takes you to the well preserved remains of the Holzwarth ranch in Rocky Mountain National Park. The ranch operated as a fishing and hunting lodge as well as a general vacation getaway into the 1970's. There is a lot of history behind this ranch and the park service bought the property in order to include it under its protection. These folks lived here year round, and they are a great testament to the heartiness and ingenuity of western settlers. If you visit please be respectful and do not damage the property.

10

Colorado, Boulder County

04 :24 hrs
3 mi
148.79785 ft
Hard

Little Raven Trail is one of the more difficult trails in the area. It begins at the Red Rocks Lake trailhead and follows the Left Hand Park Reservoir Road. The trail forks off the road into thick forests and eventually intersects with the CMC South Ski Trail.

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