Winter Adventure Sport Alternatives

I bet you didn't know that over half the winter visitors to Aspen and Snowmass do not ski. Believe it or not-research has shown this to be true. One reason this occurs is the incredible variety of off-slope activities that are available in our area. Two of the more popular and fun activities are snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Our area features some of the finest trails and professional support available for taking advantage of these fun winter sports. Now, there's no reason to feel left out. Both these adventure sports are great avenues for the entire family to have fun together, while taking in all the sights and sounds of nature.

Snowshoeing has proven to be the largest growing winter sport in the nation over the past several years. The main reasons for snowshoeing's impressive growth are its simplicity, affordability, and element of fun. "If you can walk, you can snowshoe", has become the prevailing slogan in the industry. And it's true. Because snowshoeing is basically walking or winter hiking, the entire family can enjoy it. It's also affordable. A new pair of snowshoes will range in price from $80.00 for recreational models to $400.00 for carbon fiber or titanium racing versions. An average pair will run about $200.00. To top it off, once you purchase (or rent) a pair of snowshoes, there's no cost entailed to go snowshoeing. You can "shoe" on virtually any public lands. Finally, snowshoeing is just plain FUN. Just imagine a refreshing winter hike while soaking up the sun's rays and surrounding winter beauty- all at your own pace.

Cross country skiing is often referred to by locals as "Aspen's fifth mountain" because it's a major winter activity in itself-beyond the four major ski areas. Our local trail system is quite impressive as well. In fact, the Aspen/Snowmass nordic system is the largest free trail system in the U.S., offering over 200 kilometers of trials.

Besides being great aerobic exercise, cross country skiing offers locals and visitors alike a fun outdoor alternative to alpine skiing. Cross country skiing is also a great way to commune with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the ski areas.

Places to Go

Because our trail system is so extensive, there is plenty of variety in the terrain for all ages and ability levels. For the novice snowshoer or skier, try the Aspen Municipal Golf Course located on the outskirts just west of town. The golf course offers gentle rolling terrain with lots of flat sections too. The Rio Grande Trail, located directly behind the Aspen Post Office, is also nice for beginners or those wanting a mellow skiing or "shoeing" experience. The Rio Grande follows the scenic Roaring Fork River and will eventually lead you to Woody Creek, if you ski or shoe it to the trail's end. Try the Woody Creek Tavern, a fun and funky spot, for a warm drink or meal to fuel your trip back to town.

More challenging terrain can be found at Ashcroft Ski Touring Center, one of the most spectacular high alpine cross country areas in the Rockies. To get there, drive towards the head of the Castle Creek Valley, about 12 miles from Aspen. Besides breathtaking scenery, the trails offer plenty of variety- great for the more experienced nordic skiers or snowshoers. Novices can bypass the more advanced trails and simply head up the road, which is typically groomed each evening. For a delicious backcountry dining experience or a hot toddy, head back to the world renowned Pine Creek Cookhouse, which is about a mile from the main trailhead.

Another cool option for the experienced nordic skier or snowshoer is the Owl Creek Trail, which runs from Aspen to Snowmass via the Aspen Municipal Golf Course and Owl Creek Road. This trail offers "rollercoaster terrain" to keep the adrenalin flowing. The Snowmass Club's Golf Course trails also offer plenty of groomed fun. It's especially convenient, of course, for those staying in Snowmass. This trail system also features rolling terrrain, but not as many "steeps" as the Owl Creek Trail. For more detailed trail information, call the Aspen Cross Country Center at 925-2145 , the Snowmass Club Touring Center at 923-3148 and the Ashcroft Ski Touring Center at 925-1971.

If you'd like to snowshoe the lightest powder and experience the most breathtaking views in the area, start with a ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Ajax or the Summit Express chair to the top of Buttermilk. New this year are family and fitness adventure tours, operated by Sun Dog Athletics at Buttermilk. Beginnners will love the laid back forrested trails at the top of the mountain. Those wanting some exercise, can snowshoe right up Buttermilk for "the locals workout"! Complete the experience with Mongolian Barbeque at the Cliffhouse Restaurant located at the East Summit. Those heading to the top of Ajax (aka. Aspen Mountain) can tour along Richmond Ridge, starting directly behind the gondola. This natural (ie. not groomed) route is good for snowshoers of any ability level or "classic" cross country skiers. The views eastward towards Independence Pass and the Continental Divide or due west towards Highlands and the Five Fingers are worth the trip alone. Stop by the newly built Sundeck restaurant afterwards for a quick energy snack or a hearty hot salad made to order.

Guides Anyone ?

Aspen offers several outfitters who can teach or guide you. As mentioned earlier Sun Dog Athletics offers snowshoeing adventure tours for the individual or group and fitness adventures for exercise hounds. Sun Dog's instructor/guides can also introduce you to the thrill of cross country skiing. Call (970) 925-1069 for more details, rates and reservations.

Other helpful hints to fully enjoy your outdoor experience include staying well hydrated, eating healthy small meals throughout the day, and layering your (non-cotton) clothing. Also make sure to use a high altitude sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. By following these simple guidelines you will have more energy, be more comfortable and enhance the "fun factor".

Try snowshoeing or cross country skiing for some variety, fun and adventure during your Aspen experience. After all, that's why you're here-to experience the variety of activities our unique area has to offer. So get out there and enjoy all that Aspen and Snowmass have to offer!

(Erik Skarvan founded Sun Dog Athletics, Colorado's first mountain biking school, in May of 1996. He has expanded the business to include 6 aerobic sports, which are taught and guided by 8 highly experience instructor/guides).