Funded Projects2021 Funded Project: Crested Butte Nordic

May 4, 2022

Colorado’s Premier Cross-Country Ski Destination

Crested Butte Nordic is a community-owned and operated nonprofit Nordic ski area located in Crested Butte with the mission of providing people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enjoy, and improve in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. By grooming a trail network, hosting events, and offering various programs, the team at Crested Butte Nordic has been able to serve the local community through access to affordable, safe outdoor recreation. Their programs help sustain the community’s health and wellbeing, their trails provide safe places for people to access nature, and their events give people reasons to get outside and connect with others.

Supporting Community Growth

In honor of Chris’ adventurous spirit, love of people, and passion for travel, the Chris Mikesell Foundation aims to support opportunities for young people to experience nature and recently awarded a $4,000 grant to Crested Butte Nordic and their efforts toward expanding their facilities. With over 2,000 season pass holders, waiting lists for youth programs, an extensive amount of lessons and tours given daily, and a Masters Community of nearly 300 members, Crested Butte Nordic is in need of additional space. By constructing “The Outpost,” the organization will almost double its current facility’s square footage and be able to provide critical space for the Crested Butte Nordic Team. The proposed addition will include changing rooms, a waxing room, and a coach’s office, also serving as a flexible space for other programs and events to take place.

“We have gratefully been a recipient of Chris Mikesell Foundation grants in the past, know some of Chris's family, and have heard his story through connections in the community of Crested Butte...

We are so grateful for the Foundation’s steadfast support. Thank you for believing in what Crested Butte Nordic is doing, for understanding how recreation outside in winter is critical to people’s health and wellbeing, and for recognizing that teaching kids cross-country skiing is about giving them lifelong physical, social, and emotional skills to live happier, healthier lives.”
— Laura Puckett Daniels, Crested Butte Nordic

Forging a New Path Forward

Before garnering support from the Chris Mikesell Foundation, Crested Butte Nordic had already raised $700,000 of their $1.4 million goal for their Outpost Capital Campaign. They continue to gain support from local organizations ready to help construct the exciting new 2,880 square-foot community amenity. Not only will the funds donated help build The Outpost sooner than later, but it will allow more kids to access the benefits of Crested Butte’s only outdoor, after-school program. As someone with great pride in his local community, admiration for Crested Butte, and an adoration of young people, we know Chris would be ecstatic about Crested Butte Nordic’s plans to create a warm, welcoming gathering place that supports its vibrant programs and surrounding community!

“Your gift is helping provide more kids with the joy, growth, and health of Nordic skiing. It’s also helping strengthen our community and forge connections between people from all walks of life. Thank you for believing in us and investing in our future.”

— Crested Butte Nordic