One popular spot for Nordic skiing in Pagosa Springs is West Fork. Featuring flat, groomed and natural terrain, the West Fork area provides numerous opportunities for beginners and families. The area offers skiers the chance to ski through stands of giant conifers, as well as scenic views of the valley floor and the headwaters of the San Juan River. West Fork is one of the few locations that typically provide early and late season groomed trails. Pagosa Nordic grooms up to 15 km for skate skiing, with set tracks for classic cross-country skiing.
For more advanced skiers, the backcountry trails throughout the San Juan National Forest offer a more challenging experience. These trails are not groomed, so skiers must navigate through ungroomed snow and potentially rugged terrain. However, the secluded, peaceful setting and the opportunity to see wildlife make it worth the extra effort.
Nordic skiing in Pagosa Springs is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery. The crisp, cold air and the peaceful silence of the forest make for a truly enjoyable and refreshing experience. Plus, with the variety of trails available, there is something for skiers of all levels to enjoy.
Aside from the physical benefits of Nordic skiing, it is also an eco-friendly way to enjoy the outdoors. Unlike alpine skiing, which requires the use of energy-intensive ski lifts, Nordic skiing is powered solely by the skier's own strength and endurance. This makes it a more sustainable way to enjoy the mountains.
If you're planning a trip to Pagosa Springs in the winter, be sure to add Nordic skiing to your list of activities. With its beautiful setting and variety of trails, it's an experience you won't want to miss.
