Despite 60 degrees and sunny weather outside, winter will soon be upon us. With the current surges in Covid19, even in Grand County, the Grand Nordic Ski Club has decided NOT to hold it’s Annual Ski Swap. Instead we are asking people looking used or even last year’s gear to go to our normal partners at the Swap: Snow Mountain Ranch, Devils Thumb Ranch, and Winter Park Trading Company.
Snow Mountain Ranch will be opening officially about Thanksgiving according to MaryAnn Degginger, Recreation Director. Since the Nordic area closed quickly in March due to Covid19 response, none of the normal year-end sales took place. There will be lots of used equipment and other inventory available for good prices as the season starts up so watch for announcements. One good money-saving deal is the YMCA family membership which includes you, a spouse/partner, any dependent children you have, and any related family members living in your household. 1-year membership – $250 or a 3-year membership – $600. This includes Nordic skiing for the entire family for the entire season and access to all their facilities. Click here for more details. Also, Grand Nordic members receive 10% off regularly priced merchandise.
Devils Thumb is planning to be open to the public for Nordic skiing this winter but they will not be holding any special events this season in response to Covid19 precautions according to Marie Onge, Activities Director. Wisely, the Ranch has decided to put the equipment that they might have sold in sales at the end of last season back into their rental fleet. Grand Nordic members receive 10% discount on daily trail passes. For information call 970-726-8231.
Winter Park Trading Company offers consignment sporting goods for all seasons. This means that they accept your gear for sale and charge you a portion of the sale price for the service of selling your merchandise. They offer both used equipment offered on consignment sales and new discounted Demo gear, Nordic ski gear, snowshoes, alpine ski gear, Nordic and Alpine ski boots and poles, snowboards, parkas, outdoor boots, anything that is winter and outdoor activity related. If you are interested in selling gear, please call 970-363-7056 for more information on how to sell. If you are in the market for winter gear at discounted prices, stop by and look at their huge inventory. Remember – reduce, recycle, reuse. Additionally, all Grand Nordic members receive 20% off any purchase.
Grand Nordic will also be offering free lessons at both Snow Mountain Ranch and Grand Lake but on a modified and more limited basis. With Covid19 restrictions, we are unable to provide trail passes and equipment rentals for our members so the lessons will be available to Grand Nordic members only and all lessons attendees must sign up in advance. Classes will be smaller with masks and social distancing required. We are trying to see if we can work out details on our Annual fundraising Ranch2Ranch Trek as well. Watch for future announcements for dates and procedures as the pandemic and winter evolve.
With so many uncertainties about procedures at most Alpine areas, Nordic skiing is anticipated to have huge numbers since people can spread out over open terrain and not interact with other people unless they choose. But the caution is not to overextend yourselves. If you go into the back country, go prepared with proper equipment and supplies. Go with people who are experienced and always remember to let people know where you are going. At Nordic resorts, please observe mask and social distancing protocol as it is difficult not to have some personal interaction. Have patience with other people and stay safe this winter.
To join Grand Nordic and receive discounts as well as e-mail blasts on Nordic specials, events, volunteer opportunities, and more, go to www.grandnordic.org or call 970-887-0547. For more information on Nordic Centers, Ranches, free trails, backcountry trails, events, competitive programs, school programs, adaptive programs, and more, go to www.skigrandnordic.org for links direct to those sites offering information all about Nordic in Grand County. Remember – Grand County has MORE K’S MORE DAYS.
