Funded Projects2023 Funded Project: Crested Butte Nordic

August 1, 2024

The Premier Cross-Country Ski Destination

One of the country’s premier non-profit Nordic ski destinations, Crested Butte Nordic maintains 55 kilometers of scenic cross-country ski and snowshoe trails surrounding the town of Crested Butte, Colorado. The organization is dedicated to providing individuals of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enjoy, and improve their cross-country skiing and snowshoeing skills. Throughout the season, Crested Butte Nordic offers equipment rentals, skiing and snowshoeing lessons, backcountry tours, gourmet dining, and more! Their programs help provide essential outdoor recreation opportunities that support the community’s mental and physical health all year long.

Fostering a Place of Togetherness

While Crested Butte Nordic welcomes many visitors to the Gunnison Valley throughout the year, its priority remains serving local residents during the long, isolating winter. Its affordable and accessible programs allow locals to spend time outside, exercise, and connect with friends in a safe manner. Whereas certain financial and skill barriers prevent individuals from participating in other winter sports, nordic skiing and snowshoeing remain accessible for all, providing the Crested Butte community a sense of belonging and a place of togetherness.

Fueling Future 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. In 2023, the Foundation awarded a $3,000 grant to Crested Butte Nordic to support the organization’s general operating budget, which funds annual trail maintenance, various program offerings, and administrative costs. Due to inflation, many of the supplies and tools needed to fuel such a program have increased in price, and the support from the Chris Mikesell Foundation has continued to help navigate such challenges.

“We are very grateful for the continued support provided by the Chris Mikesell Foundation...

This year, we completed the construction of The Outpost, a new facility that houses a Team Room for the Junior Nordic Team and a beautiful space for our administrative offices. The Team Room was instantly filled with happy and (often) laughing kids, energized by having spent time outside, even in the depths of winter. Though I did not know Chris personally, I would like to believe this energy parallels what he believed in. Thank you for helping us cultivate it for the next generation.” —Hedda Peterson, Crested Butte Nordic