Skiing - Nordic & Downhill

Nordic Skiing
Seven miles west of town you’ll find the Spring Gulch Nordic Trail System; visiting and local Nordic enthusiasts find its 12 miles of tracked trails ideal.  The trail system is maintained and operated by the Mount Sopris Nordic Council, a community-based non-profit organization. No fees are charged for the use of these trails, but membership in the Mount Sopris Nordic Council is encouraged. These tracks are for cross-country skiers only and no dogs are allowed.  All levels of skiers can find trails in this system that will suit their abilities.

Head east to Aspen for some of the finest Nordic skiing in the country - all for free.  Trail systems link over 80 kilometers of pristinely groomed trails.

For backcountry trails, Nordic skiers head to Avalanche Creek just off Highway 133.  The route is good for both snowshoers and skiers, but no dogs are allowed.  The trail follows Avalanche Creek up a beautiful, steep-walled valley; once it enters the Wilderness Area past Avalanche Campground, you may need to break your own trail.

Another backcountry option is McClure Pass. Its altitude guarantees good snow conditions, and the route which climbs through a peaceful forest up to a ridge has a quiet beauty all its own. This route follows Ragged Mountain Road from the top of McClure Pass on Highway 133 for five miles to the end of the road.  The last section may involve breaking track in deep snow, so be prepared with gaiters and either skis or backcountry snowshoes.

Downhill Skiing
From Carbondale, head east to Aspen/Snowmass and you can choose from four different ski mountains.  Aspen Mountain is located in downtown Aspen.  With its steeps and bumps, it’s a mountain for intermediate to expert skiers.  Aspen Highlands has been a locals’ favorite for years, because of its expert terrain, groomed cruisers and the infamous Highland Bowl.  Buttermilk is known as the premier mountain for beginners with its wide rolling trails, but there are also black diamond runs for advanced skiers and snowboarders, as well as a challenging terrain park.  Snowmass has something for everyone - cruisers, steeps, terrain parks and half-pipes.  It’s often rated on of the best family resorts in the U.S.

Sunlight Mountain Resort, 12 miles south of Glenwood Springs, offers an uncomplicated trail system with a variety of terrain for beginner to expert skiers and riders.  All the trails lead back to the main lodge, so it’s easily navigable for families.  The laid-back, friendly resort also has trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.


For more details, please visit the U.S. Forest Service, Aspen/Sopris Ranger District web page which lists many area trails by category. Also check out All Aspen for more information covering Aspen and Glenwood Springs.