Cross-country and snowshoeing

For a truly different Nordic experience at an Alpine ski area, head to McCoy Park at the top of the Strawberry Park Express Lift. Instead of skiing on the flats (usually a golf course) at the base of a ski area, you'll be on a 32-km. system at the summit, 9,840 feet, with spectacular views in every direction.

Groomed and tracked for both skating and diagonal skate skiing, the trail system has one advanced (and exciting) loop, the Wild Side trail, but is basically beginner and intermediate. An ungroomed single track for snowshoers is called the Upper Atlas Traverse. Skiers and snowshoers can take one of several trails to the base, download on the Strawberry Park Express Lift or take the very gradual Home Comfort trail (6 km.) all the way down—fun with new snow to slow you down but speedy if there isn't. Here's a trail map.

Tours, lessons and rentals are available. The park also has snowshoe rentals and tours. One such full-day tour includes a gourmet lunch; snowshoe tours include rental equipment. For more information on Nordic activities, call the Beaver Creek Nordic Center at (970) 845-5313.