Cross-country skiing in Fort Collins offers a variety of trails and opportunities for both beginners and experienced skiers. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely glide through scenic landscapes or a challenging backcountry adventure, Fort Collins has something to offer.
What are the Best Cross-Country Skiing Trails Near Fort Collins?
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Lory State Park: Located just west of Fort Collins, Lory State Park offers multiple trails with varying difficulty levels, making it a great destination for cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
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Blue Lake Trail: Situated in the upper reaches of the Poudre Canyon, the Blue Lake Trail offers a 4.75-mile one-way trail with beautiful views of Blue Lake surrounded by towering mountains.
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Meadows Trail to Zimmerman Lake: This trail system offers two options: a 1.5-mile steep trail and a 9-mile more demanding trail that goes through the Neota Wilderness area, gaining an elevation of 1,970 ft.
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Zimmerman Lake Loop Trail: A 3.1-mile trail in the Upper Poudre Canyon, the Zimmerman Lake Loop Trail is considered more difficult but popular for its late-season snow and downhill areas.
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City Park Nine Golf Course: Located in the center of Fort Collins, the City Park Nine Golf Course offers beginner cross-country skiing opportunities.
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Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: West of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space provides multiple trails with varying difficulty levels and beautiful snowy vistas.
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Cache la Poudre River Canyon: This area offers many trails with fantastic opportunities for cross-country skiing.
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Trap Park: Located in the upper reaches of the Poudre Canyon, Trap Park offers a moderately difficult trail that follows a small canyon for 11.5 miles.
What are the Free Cross-Country Skiing Spots in Fort Collins?
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City Park Nine Golf Course: Located in the center of Fort Collins, the City Park Nine Golf Course offers free cross-country skiing opportunities when there is enough snow.
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Collindale Golf Course: This golf course also allows cross-country skiing when there is enough snow.
What are the Most Popular Cross-Country Skiing Spots for Beginners in Fort Collins?
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City Park Nine Golf Course: Located in the center of Fort Collins, the City Park Nine Golf Course offers beginner-friendly trails and a “trail counter” to tally day use for skiers.
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Lory State Park: With its multiple trails and varying difficulty levels, Lory State Park is a suitable destination for beginners.
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Blue Lake Trail: The shorter, easier trail option on the Blue Lake Trail makes it a popular choice for beginners.
What Rental Services and Lessons are Available for Cross-Country Skiing in Fort Collins?
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Eldora Nordic Center: Located 21 miles west of Boulder in Nederland, the Eldora Nordic Center offers rentals, season passes, group lessons for kids and adults, and private classes.
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Angles Ski, Board, & Fly Shop: Located in Longmont, this shop offers cross-country equipment rentals locally.
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Fort Collins Nordic Group: This group provides timely updates and trail conditions on their Facebook page.