There are a couple cross-country skiing trails in Basalt. “Most Popular” doesn’t always mean best, but it does mean these are the trails people are snowshoeing a lot. Here are 5 of the most popular cross-country skiing trails in Basalt:
Remember: Winter weather can be crazy and unpredictable. Be sure to check/ask about the local trail conditions before you go!
1. Rio Grande Trail
The Rio Grande Trail offers a groomed XC skiing route direct to Aspen when conditions allow. The trail winds through the Snowmass Canyon following the Roaring Fork River to Woody Creek and into Aspen. It’s a wonderful winter workout with gorgeous scenery on your cross-country adventure.
2. Crown Mountain Park Loop
Crown Mountain Park is a popular huge open space and park. In the winter there are two loops for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing with a dedicated track for fat biking. This is a prefect winter getaway right near town.
3. Roaring Fork Club Trails
The Roaring Fork Club Trails offer a series of groomed winter trails right off of the Rio Grande Trail on the popular golf course of the Roaring Fork Club. This is a fun extension of trails for snowshoeing you can access quickly from the Basalt High School.
4. Dinkle Lake Road (FSR #311)
A short escape away from town heading toward Mt. Sopris is Dinkle Lake Road (FSR #311). West Sopris Creek Road (CR 6) is plowed to the beginning of The Crown where Dinkle Lake Road begins. A real winter treat awaits if you make it the full 2.5 miles to Dinkle Lake. This is not a groomed nordic track.
5. Fryingpan Lakes Road (FSR #505)
You’ll have to drive 32 miles up Frying Pan Road (CR 104) to the winter road closure to reach the true escape and beautiful setting of Fryingpan Lakes Road (FSR #505). The road winds around the mountain and is popular with hut trip adventurers headed to the Betty Bear Hut. Another option is Hagerman Pass Road (FSR #105) that leads to Hagerman Pass. These roads do not have groomed nordic tracks.
