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Off the hill

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing have been a big part of Snowmass since its early days as a resort. Although Snowmass was designed as a downhill ski resort, it was shortly thereafter that trails from Snowmass to Aspen and around the Snowmass golf course were developed for those who didn’t want to ride the lifts to enjoy. Although the cross-country system is not as large of an operation, several people are pictured here with cross-country ski equipment at Snowmass below the Timbermill circa 1970. A sign by the door says, “Meeting Place for Snowshoeing: Lessons or Guided Tours.” By the 1980s, there were so many trails within the White River National Forest and as part of the county open space between Aspen, Snowmass and Ashcroft ski areas that maps were needed to help visitors find all of the opportunities. Image taken by John M. Smith.