When the heavy Colorado snow blankets the high desert and mountain peaks, Moffat County transforms into a peaceful, crowd-free winter wonderland. If you are looking to escape the packed lift lines and high prices of major ski resorts, the Craig and Moffat County area offers a refreshing, authentic alternative.

From perfectly flat, groomed community paths to rugged backcountry mountain climbs, here is the complete guide to Nordic skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities in Moffat County.

1. Loudy-Simpson Park: The Convenient Community Track

Best For: Beginners, families, skate skiers, and quick afternoon workouts.

Location: Just south of downtown Craig, along the scenic Yampa River.

You don’t have to drive deep into the mountains to find fresh tracks. Loudy-Simpson Park is the crown jewel of Craig’s winter recreation. When the snow conditions permit, the county grooms dedicated cross-country ski trails right through the park.

• The Experience: The terrain here is mostly flat and incredibly forgiving, making it the absolute best spot in the county for beginners trying out Nordic skiing for the first time or for local skate skiers looking to log quick training miles.

• The Atmosphere: You’ll glide past snow-draped cottonwood trees along the banks of the frozen Yampa River.

• Bonus: The park features an enclosed ice-skating rink, making it easy to turn a visit into a full day of traditional winter fun.

2. Black Mountain & the Routt National Forest: High-Country Backcountry

Best For: Adventurous snowshoers, classic cross-country tourers, and solitude seekers.

Location: Approximately 20–25 miles north of Craig.

For those who want to earn their views and step into untouched powder, the Black Mountain area (managed by the U.S. Forest Service) is Moffat County’s premier winter playground. Rising north of Craig, this region sits at a much higher elevation, ensuring a deeper, more reliable snowpack that lasts well into the spring.

• Black Mountain Trail (#1185.1): This multi-use summer trail becomes an incredible winter route for robust cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The trail stretches roughly 7 miles (out and back) and climbs through mixed aspen and pine forests up toward the 10,800-foot summit of Black Mountain. The reward is a breathtaking, sweeping panorama of the Yampa Valley stretching all the way to Utah and Wyoming.

• Freeman Reservoir & Forest Service Roads: The gravel roads leading up to Freeman Reservoir (like County Road 11) turn into non-motorized, snow-packed corridors perfect for flat, distance-trekking on classic Nordic skis or snowshoes.

Important Backcountry Tip: Unlike major Nordic centers, the high-country trails on Black Mountain are wild, un-groomed, and shared with winter wildlife (keep an eye out for elk and moose tracks!). Bring a partner, download your maps offline via apps like COTREX, and dress in layers.

3. Cedar Mountain: Short & Scenic Snowshoeing

Best For: Fast snowshoe hikes, panoramic photography, and dog walking.

Location: Just a 10-minute drive north of Craig.

Cedar Mountain is a local favorite for a quick winter escape. Because the trail climbs quickly onto a basalt-capped plateau, it is highly recommended for snowshoers rather than cross-country skiers, who might find the rocky steps and steeper switchbacks tricky on skinny skis.

• The Experience: A short, moderate hike brings you to the rim of the mountain. Strap on a pair of snowshoes, pack a thermos of hot cocoa, and enjoy a stunning view of the vast Moffat County landscape blanketed in white.

Why Choose Moffat County for Winter Trails?

Local Gear & Preparation Tips

Because Moffat County’s winter trail system leans heavily toward the natural, DIY experience, keeping a few things in mind ensures a smooth day out on the snow:

• Gear Rentals: Craig does not have a dedicated commercial downhill/Nordic ski shop in town. If you need to rent cross-country skis or snowshoes, it is best to pick them up in nearby Steamboat Springs or check with local community programs like the Nature Connection to see if gear-loaning programs are active during your visit.

• Snowshoe Courtesy: If you are snowshoeing on a trail that has been tracked out by a cross-country skier, please walk to the side of the ski tracks. Snowshoes can easily chew up the smooth grooves that skiers need to “kick and glide” efficiently