GOLD RUN NORDIC CENTER

BILL HOUGHTON

WHAT TO KNOW:  GOLD RUN NORDIC CENTER is a much more “refined and civilized” approach to nordic skiing. This recreational area has something for almost everyone during the winter season. There are ski, snowshoe and fat bike rentals, a clothing and accessory shop, a nice open space to have snacks or “bring it yourself” lunches, a warm spot to change into ski boots and clean, well-equipped restrooms. All it could use would be a nice restaurant, but there are several nearby. Activities are separated and well-maintained. With 26 km of trails, both beginner (with lessons available) and expert can get a great workout.

GETTING THERE: From the intersection of Hwy 24 and I-25 take, Hwy 24 west to Hartsel and Hwy 9 north through Fairplay and Breckenridge. After Breckenridge, drive north on Hwy 9 for several miles to Tiger Rd, turn right and go another half mile to Clubhouse Dr, turn right again and left at the stop sign for the clubhouse. Total mileage is 106.5 miles.

ON THE TRAILS: As indicated above, the trails are well-maintained and the tracks are well thought-out. Most of the trails are out in the open, so be sure to bring sunscreen. We skied Silver Star, Sunset, Buffalo Flats, Prize Box, Dyer Straits and Smuggler. About the only spots in the trees are Silver Star and Smuggler. Silver Star is a good place to start as a warmup. It has reasonably flat terrain to get your kick and glide going and a few, very skiable, hills. The downside is that you must cross Clubhouse Rd close to the start and take off your skis. For the beginning skier, the Buffalo Flats are a wide-open area to practice various skiing skills. The Prize Box trail is where we encountered the moose. Should you also see them, give them lots of room as they are ornery and aggressive animals and you do not want to get in a foot race with them. Because of the amenities and condition of the trails, Gold Run will be high on my list to return. The cost for a day ski pass is $25 (2019).

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