Trails: Craftsbury Outdoor Center grooms 85 km (53 miles) of cross-country ski trails for classic and skating. Approximately 10% of the total length is rated Easiest, 15% More Difficult and 75% Most Difficult. Caution: Some groomed trails cross frozen lakes — check with the center to assure that the ice is safe to ski on. There are also some backcountry trails, including a section of the Catamount Trail and a link to Highland Lodge.
The easiest trails are located around the outdoor center in the northern section of the trail network, while the only trails near the inns at Craftsbury Village are the most challenging ones. Therefore, novice skiers would be advised to stay at the outdoor center near the trails best suited to their ability.
In 2008 the center was re-organized under new owners as a non-profit corporation with the primary purpose of promoting rowing and nordic skiing. The center hosts the Craftsbury Marathon race and tour in January, one of 12 races on the American Ski Marathon circuit. Trail fees: Adults $10, students and seniors $5 (winter 2009-10) includes rights to ski the Highland trails Tel: 802-586-7767
Snow report: Trail conditions are posted on the Craftsbury website. Nearest town: Craftsbury Common, VT Web site:Craftsbury Outdoor Center Trail map: Available at the center and on the center's website Equipment rentals: XC ski equipment, snowshoes, pulks Ski lessons: Private lessons for all levels of ability Other winter activities: Ice skating, snowshoeing, telemarking Facilities: Restauarant, snack bar Lodging on site: Outdoor center has rooms, appartments and lakeside cabins and includes all-you-can-eat meals. Craftsbury Inn has 10 rooms, 1-800-336-2848; Inn on the Common has luxurious rooms, 1-800-521-2233 Lodging nearby: Weather forecast:Craftsbury Tourism info:Northeast Kingdom Travel and Tourism Association Location of trails: Craftsbury Outdoor Center is located at 535 Lost Nation Road in Craftsbury Common, about 40 miles northwest of St Johnsbury. The center is about 4 miles north of Craftsbury Village and 2 miles north of Craftsbury Common. See the website for exact driving directions. Map of local region:Craftsbury Outdoor Center
Name of area: Craftsbury Outdoor Center Times that I have skied there: A few times I last skied there in: Feb, 2001 Trails that I skied: My favorite trails: Trail marking: Very good Trail grooming: Very good Rating: 5 stars What I liked: Great trails and lots of them. Very helpful staff and varied terrain. Good for all levels, no one could get bored here! What I disliked: Comments: Beautiful place to ski and stay. Wonderful people, scenery, and trails. Don't miss the Gourmet Ski tour held in February each year. A wonderful ski area in a charming town. Don't go if you're looking for night life. Submitted by: klf from: Northport, NY Date submitted: Jan 20, 2003