Steamboat Ski Touring Center in Steamboat Springs (970-879-8180, www.nordicski.net ) is in northern Colorado snow country boasting incredible volumes of dry snow. The trails wind through meadows, aspen groves and evergreens along the Fish Creek in the Yampa Valley. The center is steeped in American xc ski history and it has 40 km of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing and 10 km of snowshoe trails through pine and aspen woods.

Sven Wiik has been involved with Steamboat for nearly three decades and has had a hand in operating the center since 1980. In fact, XCSkiResorts.com's editor attended an introductory presentation to xc skiing given by Sven in Boulder, CO in the late seventies. Boulder remains a popular center even now, and whether you're a local or you're looking at activities while checking Boulder hotel offers, then it might be worth looking into making a visit.

The trail fee at the Steamboat Ski Touring Center is $16 and after 1 PM it is $14. For kids the rate is $10 and $8, and for seniors older than 64 it is a flat $10 daily rate. There are multi-day passes such as a 4-day trail pass for $50.

The center has a rental gear operation with daily rates for an xc ski or snowshoe equipment package at $13 or $11 after 1 PM. Kids rentals are $10 or $8 after 1 PM. High performance gear is available at $18.

Group lessons are offered from 10-11 AM and 1-2 PM for $35 per person. Semi-private lessons for 2 skiers are $89 and $30 for additional skiers. Private lessons are held at 11-12 and 12-1 PM for $59 with a $30 for additional skiers. Skating lessons are at 10-11 AM for $35.

Backcountry Ski Tours are available with a 3-person minimum from Wed-Sat at 10 AM - 4 PM for $75 per person. Special Destination Tours or Private Parties are also available on a request basis with up to 5 skiers for $350 with a $20 charge for additional skiers. The region has incredible options such as Rabbit Ears Pass or Buffalo Pass.

The Nordic Shop has a huge selection of equipment, clothing, and accessories. The Picnic Basket offers snacks and lunch with soups, breads, hot drinks, and tasty goodies.

Special programs and clinics for women are held throughout the season. Nordic Ski Camp & Festival scheduled for Dec 13-14 www.thenordiclink.com

There is a shuttle from the Steamboat Springs Transportation Center to the Ski Touring Center at 9:15 AM and 12:30 PM.