Funded Projects2024 Funded Project: Crested Butte Nordic

May 10, 2025

Setting a Standard of Excellence

Crested Butte Nordic fosters outdoor experiences and community well-being through high-quality programs, events, and winter trails. The organization maintains 55 kilometers of scenic cross-country ski and snowshoe trails surrounding the town of Crested Butte, Colorado, and strives to set the standard of excellence for outdoor winter recreation through accessible, inclusive, and fun Nordic-focused programming for all ages and abilities. Throughout the season, CB Nordic hosts high-quality recreational events that offer unique community experiences, whether through equipment rentals, skiing and snowshoeing lessons, backcountry tours, gourmet dining, and more. Through strong local partnerships, they are able to maintain an extensive winter trail system that connects residents and visitors to their natural surroundings!

Maintaining a Sense of Community

CB Nordic believes that when families are all involved in Nordic activities, it creates a stronger sense of community and support throughout its programs. As a result, CB Nordic hosts five major events each year, including the Alley Loop and Grand Traverse, both grounded in the uniqueness of Crested Butte. Throughout the winter months, the organization also offers outdoor, after-school youth sports programs not offered by the school district. In 2024 alone, there were over 100 youth program participants, with a record-breaking 40 kids active in the Devo Team (they are headed for the competition team in high school!). With the expansion of this team, CB Nordic aims to continue growing and maintaining the program’s affordability for all valley youth.

Creating a Home Big Enough for Everyone

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 2024, the Foundation awarded a $3,000 grant to CB Nordic to support the organization’s general operating budget, which funds annual trail maintenance and grooming, helps ensure high-quality cross-country skiing experiences for the community, and remains vital for running youth and adult programming. For CB Nordic, it’s not just about having the space—it’s about having people who show up and the support of fellow community organizations that help ensure CB Nordic can provide opportunities for everyone to thrive.

“CB Nordic is deeply grateful for the generous funding provided by the Chris Mikesell Foundation, which plays a crucial role in supporting our mission and programs. We are committed to using every dollar raised responsibly, ensuring that each donation directly enhances our trails, facilities, and community outreach efforts. The support from the Chris Mikesell Foundation enables us to continue offering accessible and high-quality outdoor experiences for all, and we are truly thankful for their partnership.”

—Hedda Peterson, Crested Butte Nordic