July 1st marks the start of a new fiscal year at CB Nordic. As we start anew this month, we reflect and learn from the season behind us as we prepare for the one ahead.

The Annual Report pays homage to this wonderful community that is CB Nordic. In it, you will find community, staff, and supporter spotlights, the 2023-2024 budget breakdown, highlights from last season, and what we’re looking forward to in the year ahead.

Thank you for being a part of CB Nordic.

By the way, have you seen the patches of fireweed? How many weeks until snow? 

Until then, see you on the (dirt) trails!

Save the date! Thanksgiving Camp returns November 29th. Start your Nordic season on the right ski with CB Nordic’s PSIA-certified instructors.

On Friday and Saturday, we’ll offer a variety of morning and afternoon clinics. Join us for one session or a few, or make it a full nordic long weekend, including a friendly Thanksgiving Camp race on Sunday.

We’re also bringing back U20 camp. Sign your athletes up for two days of classes with coaches and teams from around the West.

Clinics and offerings will be published in mid-August. Look for the program guide in the Nordic News and on the Thanksgiving Camp website.

As always, our operations team will take advantage of early-season snow with groomed Lily Lake trails. The Bench trails will open as soon as snow permits. It’s never too early to start your snow dances!

It’s almost that time. We’re gearing up for winter operations, programs, and events. Mark your calendars so you don’t miss out!

• Season Passes on Sale – Tuesday, September 3rd
• Yurt Dinner Reservations – Tuesday, September 3rd
• Youth Program Registration – Tuesday, September 10th at 10 a.m.
• Masters Registration – Friday, September 20th
• Thanksgiving Camp Registration – Friday, September 20th
• Alley Loop Registration – Tuesday, October 1st
• Annual Potluck – Thursday, October 3rd
• Grand Traverse Registration – Sunday, December 1st (midnight)

MetRec is working to identify the community’s recreation, arts, and cultural needs to help inform the Regional Recreation Master Plan. The vision is to create a Master Plan that addresses the community’s needs, enhances strategic alignment with stakeholders, and clarifies MetRec’s pivotal role in delivering high-quality recreation opportunities that improve the health and welfare of the citizens of the Gunnison Valley.

Share your feedback – the survey and map will be open through July 20th. Your input will guide MetRec’s future recreation decisions and influence potential renovation, expansion, and capital improvement projects in which MetRec may participate.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

• Season Passes on Sale – Tuesday, September 3rd
• Yurt Dinner Reservations – Tuesday, September 3rd
• Youth Program Registration – Tuesday, September 10th at 10 a.m.
• Masters Registration – Friday, September 20th

We’re looking for a few more volunteers for the July 13th Grin & Bear It Trail Run. Join us for bib pick-up, serve brunch to racers, or get out for a run and sweep the course. And, of course, we can always use help with clean up.

If you’re still looking to run, just a few spots remain in the 15k and 25k. Claim one before it’s too late.

Join Crested Butte Mountain Runners and CB Nordic Biathlon Club on Thursday, June 27th at 6 p.m. at the Nordic Center for a Biathlon Run and Shoot event. This will be an evening of introduction to the fun sport of biathlon with safe and easy-to-use Infrared rifles. Athletes will learn key skills like marksmanship and heart rate control on foot instead of skis. If you’re already versed in biathlon, come for the summer practice.

The Biathlon Run and Shoot event is free. CB Mountain Runners suggests a $10 donation for pizza and refreshments afterward.

MetRec is working to identify the community’s recreation, arts, and cultural needs to help inform the Regional Recreation Master Plan. The vision is to create a Master Plan that addresses the community’s needs, enhances strategic alignment with stakeholders, and clarifies MetRec’s pivotal role in delivering high-quality recreation opportunities that improve the health and welfare of the citizens of the Gunnison Valley.

Share your feedback – the survey and map will be open through July 20th. Your input will guide MetRec’s future recreation decisions and influence potential renovation, expansion, and capital improvement projects in which MetRec may participate.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

Each year around this time, we reflect on the last season and publish the Spring Newsletter. It’s a chance to recognize how lucky we are to have such an amazing winter season in CB. It’s also an opportunity to say thank you to all of you who make this little organization a reality year after year.

Fair warning: the walk down memory lane after all this snowy spring weather might make you feel a little nostalgic for winter and the peace of the nordic trails. But don’t worry, there’s still lots going on over here at CB Nordic through the summer. Don’t forget to sign up for Masters Summer Training. Join us for the Volunteer Party and Outpost celebration on June 14th – RSVP here. And a month later, we’ll return with the Grin & Bear It Trail Run.

See you on the (dirt) trails!

The Spring Newsletter offers us a chance to reflect on the winter season as we dive head-first into planning for the next one. This year was special. We moved into the Outpost and, in the process, unearthed piles of CB Nordic history. Please enjoy this small peek into the history of CB Nordic, as told through the evolution of our slogans – which, somehow, all still ring true today. And that feels like a good thing.

Note: The Spring Newsletter is filled with beautiful photos from Xavi Fane and other contributors. It is best viewed on a computer.

Please join us on Friday, June 14th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Outpost.

We want to say THANK YOU for another successful CB Nordic season. This little organization could not thrive without the hundreds of hours of volunteer time you give each season. Join us for food and drink, volunteer awards, and a huge selection of prize giveaways – RSVP here.

And while you’re here, come tour The Outpost. We’re moved in, the space is beautiful, and we’re ready for the kids to come back and fill the space with laughter next season!

We appreciate your thoughts and feedback on the winter season. We’re always looking to improve, and this survey is the first step in that process each year. If you forgot something in the survey, please don’t hesitate to reach out – email kylie@cbnordic.org!

And we’ve picked a winner! Congratulations to Marcel Medved. You’ve been selected to win a free season pass for the 2024-2025 season.

We’re thrilled to partner with our good friends at CORE to offer outdoor and indoor summer dryland training options.

Join CB Nordic for 10 weeks of Masters Summer Training starting Tuesday, June 11th at 4 p.m. Simultaneously, CORE is offering a CB Nordic 10-Pack of Classes. This is not a specific class but an opportunity to select from complimentary offerings that fit your schedule and training needs.

You can sign up for CB Nordic classes for $135, CORE 10-Pack for $230, or bundle both options and save for $350. If you choose to bundle, purchase the 10-Pack from CORE first to receive a discount code for Masters. Plus, CORE is generously donating 10% of each 10-Pack sale back to CB Nordic.

With all this daylight and more and more dirt showing each day, it’s training time for the Grin & Bear It Trail Run. Join us for the traditional 15k out-and-back to Green Lake, or go a little longer and loop around through Baxter Gulch for a 25k race. If you can’t run it this year, we’d love your help volunteering. We’re still looking to fill shifts for course sweeping, brunch prep and service, and event clean-up. Thank you!

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

Another season is in the books. Though we’re excited to spend some time with the wildflowers and the afternoon rainstorms, that nordic glide is always in the back of our minds.

So, in keeping with this week’s snowy forecast, we’re thrilled to share that we’re partnering with CORE to offer adult summer dryland training starting in June. It’s going to be a great mix of indoor and outdoor options that can be tailored to fit your needs and schedule. We’re also excited to bring back summer youth training for the devo and comp teams. Read on for more details about each program.

The end-of-season survey will be open for two more weeks. We’d love to hear your feedback. Don’t forget to include your email at the end for the chance to win a free 2024-2025 season pass.

And don’t forget to save the date for our Volunteer Party and Outpost Celebration on Friday, June 14th at 4 p.m. We look forward to welcoming you to this beautiful building and celebrating our amazing community of volunteers. Let’s kick summer off with a great celebration.

We’re thrilled to partner with our good friends at CORE to bring you outdoor and indoor summer dryland training options.

Join CB Nordic for 10 weeks of Masters Summer Training starting Tuesday, June 11th at 4 p.m. We’ll focus on nordic outdoor activities to keep you improving and strengthening your body for skiing through the off-season.

Simultaneously, CORE is offering a CB Nordic 10-Pack of Classes. This is not a specific class but rather an opportunity for you to select from various complimentary offerings. All CORE classes will translate to higher-quality skiing, running, and all the fun outdoor things. Work to improve your quality of movement from your core with more power, better balance, and improved efficiency.

You can sign up for CB Nordic classes for $135, CORE 10-Pack for $230, or bundle both options and save for $350. If you choose to bundle, purchase the 10-Pack from CORE first to receive a discount code for Masters.

Coach Ben is bringing back a fun-filled 10 weeks of summer training for the devo and comp teams. Crested Butte Nordic Team’s summer training is designed to offer a structured, focused training group environment with an emphasis on fun and exploration. Summer training will help athletes improve their general fitness through a variety of dryland activities – including, but not limited to, roller skiing, running, mountain biking, strength, and plyometric games (aka speedball) – and provide an introduction to year-round, periodized training models for endurance performance. Athletes should have some background in nordic skiing. Find more information or register here. Training starts Monday, June 10th.

It’s not too late to share your feedback on the 2023-2024 winter nordic season in our end-of-season survey. We promise to read every comment as we plan for the year ahead. Leave your email at the end for the chance to win a free season pass for the 2024-2025 winter. We’ll announce the winner in two weeks!

If you received the season pass holder email sent on April 24th, I linked the wrong survey. I apologize. Feel free to respond to this email letting me know you filled out that survey, and I’ll add your name to the season pass drawing.

Green Lake Trail and Baxter Gulch may still be drying out, but there are plenty of other trails open and ready for you to kickstart your training. Race day is just two months away. Last year, the race sold out, so don’t wait. Register for the 15k or 25k today!

Our summer events are right around the corner. The Grin & Bear It is happening on Saturday, July 13th, with the Summer Grand Traverse Run and Bike shortly after over Labor Day weekend. We’re looking for help with both events in all different kinds of roles. Join us for bib pick-up, course marshalling, work at an aid station, or fun at the finish line!

Did you volunteer for the Nordic Center or an event this year?
Would you like to see the finished Outpost?

Everyone is invited! Please join us on Friday, June 14th at 4 p.m. We’ll gather in the training area and the new Outpost Murray Banks Team Room to celebrate another season, share our beautiful new space, and thank our amazing community of volunteers and supporters.

Whether you stayed up all night supporting GT racers, moved bridge planks through waist-deep water, or answered millions of questions at Alley Loop bib pick-up, we want to say THANK YOU for helping us through another season. We hope to see you there.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

Another season has come and gone. In the dark days of December, the expanse of winter ahead can seem long and daunting, but every year, it seems to go by faster and faster. The longer days are making way for new sports and new muscle groups – watch for dryland summer offerings for the CB Nordic Team and Masters soon!

As we transition into this new season, thank you for respecting all trail closures. The CB Nordic trails pass through conserved and private land. Even though there’s still snow on the ground, it’s time to turn the land back over to the wildlife and the generous landowners who make our winter trail system possible. If you’re looking for early morning crust skiing opportunities, we suggest exploring drainages like Washington Gulch and Gothic.

In the process of turning the land back over, we’re looking for volunteers to help with Bridge Removal Days. You can sign up here for the next round on Saturday, April 20th.

Thank you all for another incredible season. Though we’re excited for the off-season, we’re already brainstorming and planning for next winter season. The snow will fly again before we know it.

See you on the (dirt) trails.

Each year, we try new things and offer different opportunities. The summer season gives us a chance to reflect on the last year and make improvements for the coming one. CB Nordic exists by and for the community, so we need your help in this annual reflection. Please share your feedback on the End-of-Season Survey. We read every response!

Enter your email at the end for a chance to win a free season pass for the 2024-2025 season.

The nordic trails are officially closed. Hartman Rocks is officially open. It’s dirt season! That means it’s time to register for the Grin & Bear It. Join us on Saturday, July 13th for the 25k loop or the traditional 15k out and back to Green Lake. Both races feature an optional (but encouraged) mid-race dip in the lake! As always, the first male and female 15k runner to the lake has the option to take the awkward load back to CB Nordic for a $100 premium. Last year, it was a nordic ski in the lake…what will it be this year?

Please join us on Friday, June 14th for our annual Volunteer Appreciation Party and the official Outpost opening. This community and our amazing volunteers are the backbone of CB Nordic. Without your help and support, we could not maintain 55km of winter trails, put on unique events like the Alley Loop and The Grand Traverse, or get hundreds of local kids out on skis.

More details to come, but we hope to see you there!

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

It’s officially spring, though the recent weather may suggest otherwise. It’s always a mixed bag this time of year, but for us, we’ll hold onto the snow as long as we can. We’re thrilled to be able to offer groomed trails through Sunday, April 14th. Be sure to check the trail report before you head out, as conditions change daily this time of year.

As we round out the next couple of weeks, please remember that though crust skiing is tempting, there are very few places in our trail system where off-trail access is permitted. Most of our trails cross private property, so if you ski off-trail, you’re likely in someone’s backyard. Make the most of the late-season groom, and when you need some more freedom in your glide, try Gothic or the Slate River corridor beyond the Magic Meadows Yurt.

See you on the trails!

Please join us in celebrating the life of Jan Parker on Saturday, April 6th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Magic Meadows Yurt. Together with Marcel and the Parker and Medved families, let’s take time to gather as a community, share stories and memories, and enjoy each other’s company. We’ll soak up the spring evening sunlight and fresh air in Jan’s honor. There will be light appetizers and a few beverages. No need to RSVP; just stop by for an evening of remembrance.

Wow! The Grand Traverse is notorious for bringing in the weather. It doesn’t quite feel like spring at CB Nordic until The Grand Traverse is in the rearview mirror. This race truly takes the whole village to pull off. Our longstanding partnership with the Crested Butte Avalanche Center and Crested Butte Search and Rescue allows us to send racers out in the night with confidence, whether that means a traditional finish in Aspen or a reverse back to Mt. CB like this year. Our amazing community of volunteers who come back time and again to stand in the cold, put on a smile for anxious racers, and support CB Nordic in countless ways are the backbone of this organization. Thank you all!

There’s still time to try your hand at nordic skiing. Join us Friday, April 5th at noon for a pop-up skate skiing clinic. Come see what all the fun is about before the season is up. We promise you’ll love it!

The clinic is $20 – rentals and day passes are included. Email programs@cbnordic.org to reserve a spot today.

The Beer Ski is back. Come celebrate the nordic closing weekend in style. Join us on Saturday, April 13th for the 3rd annual Beer Ski. You can compete as an individual or collect your three favorite friends to join in the fun. Feeling adventurous? Sign up for the half-time Tequilla Bonus Round.

We are so grateful for our generous sponsors of this event. The beer ski laps are brought to you by Acme Liquor, with an after-race celebration and spectator beverages brought to you by Irwin Brewing.

It must be the end of the season because the last Yoga at the Yurt is here. Join Thrive Yoga on Saturday, April 6th. $45 per person includes a Fireside Yoga class, use of a travel mat provided by Thrive, tea, and a trail pass to get to and from the yurt. The fee does not include ski gear, which can be reserved at CB Nordic. End the season on the right note.
Book with Thrive Yoga Today!

Whether you’re hanging onto skiing a little longer or you’ve already transitioned to the springtime search for dry trails, it’s time to register for the Grin & Bear It. Join us for the 25k loop or the traditional 15k out and back to Green Lake. We look forward to welcoming you at the finish line with no construction zone and a tour of the Outpost!

The Nordic Center closes for the season on Saturday, April 13th. Get your skis in for a $12 storage wax before then! The trails will remain open through Sunday, April 14th.

After that, we look forward to seeing you on a different kind of trail for a few months. Or stay tuned for bridge days

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

The sunshine is back this week, punctuated by bursts of snow in the forecast. The predicted highs of 50 degrees and overnight lows in the teens can only mean that spring is officially here. Whether you like to hit the trails early in the morning or enjoy the lingering evening light, it’s magical out there right now.

For us winter people, the season goes by way too fast – especially when you think about the numbers. There’s one more Sunday Bistro left. You have two more chances to jump into Yoga at the Yurt (March 23rd and April 6th). There are just over three weeks left in the nordic season – the Nordic Center’s closing day is Saturday, April 13th, with trails closing on Sunday, April 14th. And because we’re on a roll here, join us at the Beer Ski closing weekend to drink four beers.

But limited time just means all the more reason to put your skis on, head out the door, and enjoy this big, beautiful backyard.

See you on the trails!

With spring comes more sunshine, beautiful bird songs, and big temperature swings. This also means variable trail conditions. The fast, icy morning conditions are replaced with soft corn snow in the afternoon.

The Maze is closed for the remainder of the season due to water under the snow infiltrating the system. Middle Earth and Mordor are groomed and open and can be accessed from the Rec Path via the Gulch Connector and the Old Ditch Trail.

Great Blue Heron were spotted returning to the valley this past weekend. In partnership with the Crested Butte Land Trust, Magic Meadows 1 (the loop closest to the Slate River) is now closed due to its proximity to the river and the heron rookery. Thank you for obeying this and all trail closures and for keeping the rookery safe during this critical nesting period.

The last Crested Butte Land Trust field trip of the season is coming up on Friday, March 22nd at 10 a.m., just in time for the Great Blue Heron return to the valley. Join us for a ski followed by pastries at the Magic Meadows Yurt. Learn about the partnership between nordic skiers and land conservation with updates from both local nonprofits.

Enjoy a free day pass and ski the trails afterward. Email jessica@cblandtrust.org to sign up!

Get unlimited skiing for the remainder of the season! Pass prices for the 2023/2024 season are now just $200 – and $170 for seniors. You can purchase a pass online or stop by the Warming House, where our staff can get you set up for fun. Be advised that this is not a pre-sale on passes for the 2024/2025 season.

We’re also having our annual spring sale! All inventory is now discounted by 40%. Yes, you read that right, 40%! This includes apparel, waxes, gloves, hats, glasses, and more. If you’ve been thinking about a new pair of Dynafit ski pants, some Swix spring-weight gloves, a Skida hat, or want to stock up on waxes for next year, now is the time.

There are just over three weeks left in the nordic season. Our closing day is Saturday, April 13th. Get out there and make the most of it, but don’t forget to take care of your skis before we head into the summer off-season.

Drop off your skis at the Nordic Center for a storage wax for just $12. 

Did you know, you can donate your Colorado state refund or a portion of it back to Colorado nonprofits? ReFUND Colorado makes it easy to give back to the community.

Enter Crested Butte Nordic Council and our registration number 20073006852 in the Donate to a Colorado Nonprofit Fund line on your state income tax return, or give this information to your tax preparer. Learn more here.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

Spring skiing is upon us. Time to get out there and make the most of these beautiful groomed trails.

Much like last season, March has come in like the Lion we’ve referenced in the past. We are proud to have had our trail system open “Wall to Wall” for some time now. Folks are raving that they got up to ski some of our signature trails like Rudy’s Rollers, Middle Earth and Mordor in pristine conditions. On the West Side, the trails have been as magical as they get, pun intended. Paradise Park and Red Lady Loops even got some realigning to enhance the uniqueness of the Crested Butte Nordic trail system. As we move into spring, we can expect great skiing conditions courtesy of the deep snowpack. We are looking forward to runoff filling our lakes and rivers, but watch out for running water in and under the snowpack.

Though the temperatures are getting warmer and the snow softer, we have lots planned for the last five weeks of nordic ski season. There are two more Masters pop-up clinics coming your way – one skiing and one painting in the next two weeks. As always, the yurt schedule is packed with trivia and Sunday bistros. We’re calling all volunteers for GT weekend at the end of the month. Plus, registration is open for the Beer Ski and Grin and Bear It.

The skiing is magnificent! See you on the trails!

We’re official. We have our certificate of occupancy, and we’ve moved into The Outpost. We’re so excited to share this new space with you. The kids’ programs are settling in downstairs, and the floor is already covered in ski wax. Our admin offices have moved upstairs, and we’d love to show you around next time you’re in the area.

We’re in the process of cleaning out the Warming House upstairs and are working on transitioning it to a community gathering space. At the end of the week, the space will be open for you to leave your shoes while you’re skiing and have tea with friends after a workout. We will continue to improve the space and add cozy touches through the spring and summer.

Classic Glide Technique
We’ve got a pop-up clinic coming your way this Friday, March 8th. Join us at the Nordic Center from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. to improve your classic glide and finish out the season strong. The clinic is $15/skier – pay at the front desk. Email kylie@cbnordic.org for more information or to reserve a spot.

Plein Air Painting Class
Join us for an immersive journey into the world of plein air watercolor painting on the CB Nordic Trails! Plein air, meaning, “open air” in French, refers to the practice of painting outdoors directly from nature. This enriching class offers you the opportunity to look at the nordic trails from a different perspective as you learn the fundamentals of water color painting en plein air. This class will meet on Wednesday, March 13th, from 2 – 4:30 pm at the Magic Meadows Yurt. All painting materials will be provided. The class is $55/skier – pay at the front desk. Email linsey@cbnordic.org for more information or to reserve a spot.

Trail passes are required.

Get unlimited skiing for the remainder of the season! Pass prices for the 2023/2024 season are now just $200 – and $170 for seniors. You can purchase a pass online or stop by the Warming House, where our staff can get you set up for fun. Be advised that this is not a pre-sale on passes for the 2024/2025 season.

We’re also having our annual spring sale! Starting March 6th, all inventory will be discounted by 20%. This includes all apparel, waxes, gloves, hats, glasses, and more. If you’ve been thinking about a new pair of ski pants, some spring-weight gloves, or want to stock up on waxes for next year, now is the time.

There’s still lots of fun left to be had at the Magic Meadows Yurt.

Yurt Trivia
The last Yurt Trivia is just one week away. Join us on Wednesday, March 13th, from 6 – 10 p.m. $40 admission covers a trail pass, pizza, appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages, and one entry to the ticketed giveaway. Will your team snag a win or the whole series?

Yurt Bistro
We’ve got three more Sunday Bistros for you this season. Stop by the Magic Meadows Yurt from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Sundays through March 24th for pastries and other treats, hot drinks, local coffee, and soup next to a warm fire or out on the sunny deck. Grab your skis and trail pass, and head on out to the yurt.

Yoga at the Yurt
Yoga at the Yurt returns this Saturday, March 9th! Book your spot today with Thrive Yoga. $45 per person includes a Fireside Yoga class, use of a travel mat, tea, and a trail pass to get to and from the yurt. Rental gear can be reserved at cbnordic.org.

You may have heard that we’ve got a ski race to Aspen shaping up! The 26th Grand Traverse Ski is right around the corner with festivities starting Friday, March 29th and continuing through the weekend. So, we’re calling all volunteers. If you’re feeling inspired to be part of this amazing race, we need a few more key people in CB and Aspen. Sign up here or email Hannah at hannah.lang@cbnordic.org for more information.

The Beer Ski is back. To celebrate closing weekend, join us on Saturday, April 13th for the 3rd annual Beer Ski. You can compete as an individual or collect your favorite three friends to join in the fun. Feeling adventurous? Sign up for the half-time Tequilla Bonus Round.

Green Lake may be frozen right now, but think of how good a mid-run dip will feel come July. Crested Butte’s oldest trail challenge is back. Registration is now open for the traditional 15k sprint to Green Lake and back, as well as the newer 25k loop. Join us on Saturday, July 13th for this fun community event. Rumor has it, there might be a little dirt showing at Hartman Rocks. Time to start throwing some running into your weekly training.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

Happy Valentine’s Day! What a fantastic day to celebrate our love for this wonderful sport and the CB Nordic Community.

Thank you for another great Alley Loop. The 38th Annual tour of the Crested Butte alleys is in the books. This event would not have been possible without your support. This year, we counted on 112 volunteers contributing over 650 hours, welcomed a record 1,194 skiers, relied on the support of the Town of CB and our neighbors along the course, and relished in the costume parade of Barbies, hoop skirts, animal onesies, and of course, so much Spandex. The Alley Loop really is a celebration of this town, this community, and a whole lot of love.

Looking ahead, we’re excited for another five weeks of winter, Masters pop-up clinics, and good times on the trails with friends. Let’s make the most of it all!

In the event world, we’re turning our sights towards the Gothic Mountain Tour this coming Sunday. If you’re out on the West Side Trails, give those 200 skimo athletes a cheer as they skate their way to the finish line at the Magic Meadows Yurt. There will be no Sunday Bistro this weekend. But fear not; we’ll be back the following five Sundays to round out the winter season.

See you on the trails!

The Town of Crested Butte, in partnership with Crested Butte Nordic, is collecting data to better understand winter travel patterns and trailhead experiences on Peanut Lake Road. This information will help inform future considerations on transportation and trailhead improvements.

Share your thoughts on the Peanut Lake Road Survey. The survey is open until March 29 at 5 p.m. Thank you for your time and input.

The CB Nordic Biathlon Club is thrilled to bring you more biathlon. Join us for a full-day expo on Saturday, February 24th from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Offerings will include:

Basic Rifle Safety Course
Try-It Event with Infrared Rifles on Ruthie’s Run
Regulation .22 Rifle Clinic on GB Loop | 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Try-It Biathlon Race with Infrared Rifles on Ruthie’s Run

Email programs@cbnordic.org for more information or to reserve a spot today.

The first Masters Pop-Up Clinic is here. Join our PSIA-certified instructors this coming Sunday, Febrary 18th from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. We’ll focus on skate skiing climbing technique in this one-off session. The clinic is $50 per skier. A day pass or season pass is required.

Email programs@cbnrodic.org to reserve a spot.
The deadline to register is Friday, February 16th, at 8 p.m.

Yoga at the Yurt is back! Join CB Nordic and Thrive Yoga for four peaceful Saturday morning classes. The first class is this Saturday, February 17th from 10 – 11 a.m. Classes are $45 per person, which includes a fireside yoga class, the use of a travel mat provided by Thrive, tea, and a trail pass to get to and from the yurt. Rental ski gear is not included but can be reserved online with CB Nordic. Sign up for Yoga at the Yurt today!

Snowshoe and Ski Tours are 20% off for the entire month of February. Our experienced and friendly guides will take you safely into the backcountry around Crested Butte for a half or full-day tour adventure. All tours are private, and rental equipment is included. Register online with the discount code sweetheart to receive the February discount.

The Gray Hares, recreational skiers ages 50 and beyond, meet weekly on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. through mid-March. Gray Hares are not super athletes but social folks who love to go out as a group, get some fresh air, and enjoy the views along the trail. Now is the perfect time to join as the days get warmer and longer. While the program is free, ski passes and rental equipment can be purchased at the Nordic Center prior to each class. Email Jane Banks for more information and meeting locations.

Our trails run through a combination of private, conserved, and public land. Access to these trails is governed by agreements with landowners, the Crested Butte Land Trust, Western Colorado University, and other entities. Please educate yourself on the trail rules and uses before you head out.

On the East Side, dogs are allowed on Town Ranch, Riverbend, and the Rec Path. On the West Side, dogs are allowed on Beaver Trail, Kapushion, Pooch’s Paradise, and Mike’s Mile (moose permitting).

Thank you for bringing your furry friend along on the dog trails ONLY. Dogs on other trails may jeopardize our agreements and access to trails for all.

Thank you for displaying your trail pass!

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.

We’ve been planning for months and prepping for weeks. Finally, the Alley Loop collage of costumes and competition is here. In most respects, this will be a traditional looping of the alleys that you all know and love, but there are a few key differences to this year’s event, including an additional block of alleys and Elk Avenue, so be sure to read all the resources below so you know what to expect when you’re in town or on the trails this weekend. Check out the CB Nordic Website and Alley Loop Racer Manual for ALL the information.

We’re still looking for last-minute volunteer heroes! Email kylie@cbnordic.org for a volunteer shift.

Though the parade of Spandex-clad skiers flying through town may be the highlight of the season for many, there’s still plenty of skiing and fun to be had through April. Our entire trail system is open wall to wall – all 55km of glorious nordic skiing and snowshoeing fun. Join us for the Sunday Yurt Bistro after the Alley Loop this weekend, Yurt Trivia in a couple of weeks, and another round of Masters sessions through February to hone your nordic technique.

Can’t make the Alley Loop? We’re always looking for volunteers to help with our other fun events, the next of which is the Gothic Mountain Tour on February 18th.

Here’s to a snowy start to February. See you on the trail!

Alley Loop weekend is the best. This massive nordic race and costume party requires an orchestra of logistics that we could not pull off without the support of the Town of CB and an army of volunteers. Thank you for helping us put on the third-largest nordic race in the country!

Race Changes: This year, we’re adding an additional block of alley and Elk Avenue skiing to the course. All races will extend to 4th Street before turning up Elk. The race expo area will be located in the Post Office Parking lot.

Parking Restrictions: Parking restrictions will begin Thursday night and continue through Saturday late afternoon. Please take a look at the map on our website to make your trip into town this weekend as smooth as possible. We recommend parking at the 4 Way or the Crested Butte Community School and walking or using the bus to move around town.

Spectating the Race: It’s going to be a busy weekend. With over 1,000 racers and their families and friends supporting, Crested Butte will be full. We recommend spectating with your cowbells along Elk Avenue and at the corner of Elk and 1st Street. The expo area in the Post Office Parking Lot will be limited to racers only. 

Not Racing the Alley Loop: If you’re hoping to get in a good ski, your best bet is to ski on the East Side or The Bench Trails this Saturday. While it’s fun to cheer on the racers and check out the costumes on the West Side, please expect a little bit of chaos with the sheer number of folks out on the course. If you find yourself on the West Side Trails, please be mindful and keep your dog on a leash so everyone gets along.

Join us Friday, February 2nd, from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. on the 00 block of Elk Ave. for a “Try-It” Biathlon Event brought to you by Fischer Skis and CB Nordic. Come demo a pair of Fischer skate skis and learn to shoot an infrared rifle (no live bullets). Walk-ups are welcome and encouraged, or reserve your gear in advance, email joellen@cbnordic.org.

Then, once you’re hooked, sign up for Adult Biathlon Masters on Wednesdays and/or Saturdays through February. 

Olympic Champion, Cancer Survivor, and Active Mom

From her debut in Salt Lake City to a decisive sprint finish in Pyeongchang, Kikkan Randall defined her career through Olympic aspirations. Straight from her gold-medal performance to a cancer diagnosis, she barely had a chance to catch her breath before finding herself navigating life as a single mother. The film, KIKKAN, chronicles the life of the 5-time Olympian from childhood through her US Ski career to her return to Alaska.

Crested Butte will be hosting the American premiere of this documentary on Saturday, February 3rd, at 7 p.m., followed by a Q+A with Kikkan Randall after the film. Brought to you by Fischer Skis. The perfect end to Alley Loop weekend.

Want to read up on Kikkan before you brush arms with an Olympian at the 21k Skate? Check out this interview in Cross Country Skier.

Snowshoe or Ski Tours are 20% off for the month of February. Our experienced and friendly guides will take you safely into the backcountry around Crested Butte for a half or full-day tour adventure. All tours are private, and rental equipment is included. Register online with the discount code sweetheart to receive the February discount.

Somehow, we’re knocking on February’s door, which means our last Masters session is here. Sessions start Monday, February 5th. Sign up for Skate and Classic technique classes, Mom’s Power Hour, Silver Gliders, Adult Biathlon, or Performance Group.

If a full Masters session doesn’t work for your schedule, be on the look-out for pop-up sessions at the end of February and the beginning of March.

Yurt Trivia is back on Tuesday, February 13th. Take a mid-week break and head out to the yurt with a group of friends for a little skiing, friendly competition, music, pizza, and prizes. Tickets are $40, reserve your spot today.

There will be one more trivia night this season on March 13th.

Just two short weeks after the Alley Loop, we’re hosting the Gothic Mountain Tour. The race is full, but we’re looking for volunteers. We’re in need of check-in help, course marshalls, race dispatch, finish-line volunteers, and shuttle drivers. There’s something for everyone! Pick your shift here. Volunteer swag always included!

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Crested Butte Nordic depends on your support to keep our trails world-class and our programs top-notch. Thank you for all the time, energy, and money you donate to make us a true community nordic center.