Like with any sport, you will need appropriate equipment, clothing, and know-how to have a good time! Here are the tools you will need to get you started on your cross-country skiing adventures.

• Avalanche Awareness: When travelling in snowy environments, especially in Colorado, it is essential that you “know before you go” to avoid getting caught in avalanche terrain. Visit the Colorado Avalanche Information Center and become avalanche aware. If you are unsure, the Nordic Centers or recreation path are safe bet!
• Cold-Weather Clothing: Dressing to exercise in cold-weather environments can be tricky! You want to be warm, but don’t want your clothes to become damp with sweat. A good rule of thumb is to wear a quick-drying base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a weatherproof outer-layer. And of course, wear your hat, balaclava, and gloves!
• Cross-Country Gear: In addition to your weather-appropriate clothing, you will need your cross-country skiing equipment. You will need skis, boots and poles. If you are unsure of where to start, pay a visit to a Nordic center- they will point you in the right direction! The Nordic centers have cross-country ski equipment available for rent as well.

Now you’ve got the gear and are ready to head out onto the trails- where do you go? Breckenridge has an extensive trail system available to cross-country skiers- some groomed, most ungroomed. Here are a few of our favorite places to spend a day cross-country skiing!

• Boreas Pass: This trail offers stunning views of the Tenmile Range, gradual grade, and a wide road to ski on. The road goes all the way to Como, but you can go as far as you like or take a side trail through the forest
• Breckenridge Rec Path: The recreation path is a bikers haven in the summer and is groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter! Take a ski down the path to Broken Compass or continue all the way to Frisco!
• Lake Loops: When the ice becomes thick enough, Dillon Marina will groom cross-country ski trails on Lake Dillon! Enjoy the expansive views while you get your exercise
• Golden Horseshoe: The Golden Horseshoe area offers trails (Tom’s Baby and Middle Flume) groomed by the Town of Breckenridge.
• Sallie Barber Mine: This trail is popular in both summer and winter, taking you through a forested area past relics of the mining era. Learn about Breckenridge history while you ski!