Considering the number of trails and the length of the winter season in the mountains of Colorado, there really isn’t much in the way of excuses to keep you from enjoying both. But just to make sure all those excuses are officially exhausted, Snowsports Industries America, the American Hiking Society and the Cross Country Ski Areas Association have teamed up to bring you Winter Trails Day for, oh, 11 years now. If you missed the first 10, you get another chance this weekend.
The one-day event is geared toward families, hikers, recreational enthusiasts, school groups, youth organizations and anyone else interested in learning more about the sports of snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
If you’re new to snow sports, the free clinics at participating cross country ski areas across the state are a great way to discover the fitness benefits and social interaction of these easy-to-learn winter sports. Check out the programs at the following cross country centers:
* Grand Lake, Saturday, 1 p.m.-closing. Program limited to the first 15 to preregister. Phone: 970-627-0034; Web: www.rkymtnhi.com; E-mail: jspeck@rkymtnhi.com.
* Keystone Resort Nordic Center, Saturday, 1-4:30 p.m. Free introductory lesson at 2 p.m. (including rental equipment and ski pass). Call to get on the list and check in at 1:45 p.m. Phone: 970-496-4275; Web: www.keystoneresort.com; E-mail: jhlavaty@vailresorts.com.
* Steamboat Ski Touring Center, Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Call for information. Phone: 970-879-8180. Web: www.nordicski.net; E-mail: xcski@springsips.com.
