Our staff is well versed in the active lifestyle. This hands-on experience with adventures big and small is something we look forward to sharing with you. Whether you are looking for the perfect day hike or a weekend getaway in one of the Rocky Mountain's hidden treasures, Colorado has it all. Below are some of our favorites. Have your own favorite? Let us know and we might include it in a future issue.   Activity: Nordic Ski or Snowshoe Difficulty: Beginner to Moderate Trip Time: 1/2 Day Distance From Vail: In Vail Description: The Vail Nordic Center located at the Vail golf course has a number of options for outdoor activity. The impressive 17 kilometers of nordic ski track is groomed daily for classic cross-country skiing or, for the more advanced, skate skiing. The Nordic Center also has miles of snowshoe trails that traverse the hillside into the East Vail area. While taking a break you can watch ice climbers on the world-class ice falls at the east end of the Nordic trail system. Skis are available for rental. For more information, call the Vail Nordic Center directly at (970) 479-2291. Activity: Snowshoe, Ski Tour Difficulty: Moderate Trip Time: 1/2 to All Day Distance From Vail: Approx. 1 mile Description: Meadow Mountain is very popular for nordic skiers and snowshoers. You will find extensive open meadows and ski runs from the abandoned ski area. The trail follows an old road which stays snow packed all winter. There is a cabin at 3.5 miles which makes a great lunch stop or a place to turn around. The road continues through wide open meadows to the top for sweeping views of the entire valley. On the descent you may choose to venture off into the wide open snowfields for some powder enjoyment. Sledding is a popular activity at the base of the mountain, so please use extra caution to avoid any run-ins with speeding children. Activity: Snowshoe, Ski Tour Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Trip Time: All day Distance From Vail: Approx. 15 miles Description: Located at Exit 190 (at Vail Pass) off of Interstate 70, this trip offers outstanding views of remote, high-altitude wilderness. Starting at 10,580 feet above sea level, leave the Vail Pass parking area and walk west to the forest service sign marking Shrine Pass Road. Begin skiing or snowshoeing past the first switchback until you reach the apex of the second major switchback. The trail leaves the road here and heads west/northwest to a gradual ascent up through the meadows that line a creek. The route winds 2.4 miles between the meadows and the trees to the crest of the pass. The trail is very well marked and when you reach the pass you will be in a flat, open meadow. The trail to the inn will be to your left among a thick stand of trees, 0.3 miles in. Keep an eye out for the white-tailed Ptarmigan in the high open meadows. To stay overnight, reservations must be made with the Tenth Mountain Hut Association at (970) 925-5775.	Going on a day hike or an overnight camping trip? View and print out our essential Ptarmigan checklist and make sure you are prepared for adventure. Ptarmigan Sports is open for business 7 days a week - Monday-Saturday: 9am-7pm - Sunday: 10am-5pm 137 Main Street Edwards, CO 81632-8118 (970) 926 8144 Contact us