parks
PitCo Open Space and Trails approves updated Nordic Trail Plans
By River Stingray Follow
rstingray@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times
· July 2, 2026
· 4 min read
Pitkin County Open Space and Trails have approved the updated Nordic Trail Plans in an attempt to prioritize the long-term viability of Nordic skiing by enhancing the current trail system in the face of shorter, warmer and drier winters.
The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System currently spans 1...
Key takeaway The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System currently spans 106 kilometers of machine-groomedtrails, comprising the largest free Nordic ski trail network in North America, according to a staff report provided prior to Thursday’s meeting.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The updated Nordic Trail Plans come at a critical time for Pitkin County, as the region grapples with the impacts of warmer and drier winters on its winter recreation economy. The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System is a vital component of this economy, attracting thousands of visitors and locals alike to its 106 kilometers of machine-groomed trails. As the county's open space and trails department works to enhance the trail system's long-term viability, it must also balance the needs of various user groups, from Olympic athletes to recreational skiers. The plan's focus on climate resiliency is particularly noteworthy, given the region's vulnerability to avalanche risk, spring runoff flooding, and wildfire danger. By prioritizing the Nordic trail system's sustainability, Pitkin County Open Space and Trails is helping to ensure the continued health of the local recreation economy and the community's identity as a winter sports hub.
About this story
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Category: parks ·
Published: July 2, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Pitkin County Open Space and Trails have approved the updated Nordic Trail Plans in an attempt to prioritize the long-term viability of Nordic skiing by enhancing the current trail system in the face of shorter, warmer and drier winters.
The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System currently spans 1...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 2, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by River Stingray Follow
rstingray@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more parks coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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