The Nordic News

With longer, warmer days and dynamic spring-like storms, the natural world is waking up and beginning to stir. The return of the moose to Mike’s Mile and intermittent storms teasing the potential for avalanche hazards remind us that we are visitors in nature’s house. When we play, it is essential that we remain observant and respectful of our surroundings and play appropriately, otherwise the consequences may be dire. We hope that you’re out there having fun but being safe and smart when doing so.

Speaking of the moose… its return to the trails reminded us of what it means to play a role in stewarding conserved lands. The majority of our Nordic trails, including Mikes Mile, traverse land conserved by the Crested Butte Land Trust and Town of Crested Butte. These areas have been protected for a host of reasons. When skiing across the valley bottom recreation may seem like the obvious conservation value, and it certainly is a good one. But of equal importance is wildlife. Thank you for respecting the temporary trail closure and helping us balance these sometimes-competing values.

Spring skiing is some of the best skiing and we have plenty more in store during the coming weeks. Read on for details about the fun events and programs we have lined up to celebrate this sunny time of year!

Two weeks ago, CB Nordic hosted the 17th Annual Gothic Mountain Tour. Thank you to all who helped with this year’s event. The rugged race hosted a full roster of challenge-inspired individuals who made the 22-mile trek around Gothic Mountain. Thank you to Crested Butte Mountain Rescue, the CBAC, and all of our volunteers. We couldn’t have done it without you!

If you’ve been looking to brush up on your technique, or are interested in getting some regular instruction on the nuances of nordic skiing, sign up for Masters. Our fourth and final session begins on March 7th, so it’s not too late to get those tips that could be the game changer you’ve been looking for. Check out our Program Guide to learn more or sign up at cbnordic.org to secure your spot.

Crested Butte Nordic is collaborating with the Crested Butte Museum again this year to offer Historic Ski Tours to the yurt. If you missed the last one, mark your calendars for March 9, 2023 to learn some local history with our friends from the Museum from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Magic Meadows Yurt complete with a hot lunch by the cozy fire. For more information and to register, visit the Museum’s website at crestedbuttemuseum.com.

The third and final night in our Yurt Trivia series is coming up on Wednesday, March 15. $40 cost covers admission, a trail pass, pizza, appetizers, non-alcoholic beverages, and one entry to the ticketed giveaway. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Visit cbnordic.org to learn more and register.

Starting tomorrow, March 2, pass prices for the 2022/2023 season are dropping to $200. For more information or to purchase a pass, visit the Season Pass page on our website or stop by the warming house where our friendly staff can set you up for fun.
*Be advised that this is not a pre-sale on passes for the 2023/2024 season.*

Also starting in March, our entire inventory will be discounted by 20%. This does not extend to rentals, but does 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 stock up on waxes for next year, now is the time!

Crested Butte Nordic and Eddyline Brewery are bringing back the Beer Ski World Championships! On Saturday, April 8, at the Magic Meadows yurt, individuals and relay teams will chug beers then ski a 1/2 mile loop for this end of season event. This is a 21+ event with a Team Relay and Solo Racer Challenge.  If you’re not into racing, come out anyway to celebrate an amazing season with us at the Yurt!

This season, Crested Butte Nordic is happy to partner with The Alpineer, Crested Butte’s premier outdoor equipment shop and a local’s favorite. Accommodating a wide variety of rental equipment needs whether your a summer or winter adventurer, The Alpineer has what you’re looking for. Not looking to rent? Stop by their store, conveniently located at the 4-way stop in Crested Butte, for expert service and advice or to shop their well-stocked retail inventory. For more information, explore their website online at The Alpineer.

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.