5 Loops Shared Nordic/Snowshoe Trail Among the most favorite winter activities for those who live at 10,000+ feet elevation in Leadville, Colorado are Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. NorthRidge has a network of 5 trail loops that are shared by enthusiasts of both sports.
The length of the loops varies from just over 2 miles to 5.5 miles. The Nordic skiing has numerous gradient changes with some downhill at over a 5% grade, so this experience is not for novices.
Snowshoeing is the optimum use of these loops, with a net vertical gain of over 300 feet from the bottom of the longest loop near the Arkansas River to the ridge top. The loops are expected to be packed after every significant snowfall.
Gasoline-powered snowmobiles are not allowed on this trail network, although e-snowmobiles are.
Access to the beginning of all these loops is Lake County Road 17, which is on the western side of U.S. highway 24 immediately past the intersection of highways 24 and 91, when driving south into Leadville. Parking for about 40 cars is available in the flat area about ΒΌ mile from the highway.
