This nordic event is one of the longest running cross-country ski races in Colorado and offers a variety of distances for both Skate and Classic disciplines, as well as prize money, post-race celebrations and live entertainment.
Talking of prize money, a total purse of $5,000 with First Place in the premier category of 30km Skate awarding $1,000 for both men and women, guarantees a top-class field.
Even though the state has been bereft of snow since the season began, the Resort has done a great job with the trails, so add in the spectacular scenery, and it should once again be a great occasion. I am a convert to cross country skiing, having downhilled for some 25 years, and just love the peace and serenity out at Devils Thumb - a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the Winter Park Resort mountains.
Furthermore, in the uk alongside snowshoeing, it's one of the best workouts going.
As a reminder, Devils Thumb is ranked #7 best Nordic Center in North America, and has undergone a 7-year transformation of the cross country ski center into a year-round, eco-frindly rach resort and spa.
The openings of the base area 52-room main lodge, Ranch Creek Spa facility and casual dining restaurant, Heck's Tavern, culminated the resort's mult-year capital improvement program. Nothing like putting the calories back on in "The Hex" after losing them on the trails at Devil's Thumb!
To give you some history, the hexagonal room that houses Heck's Tavern is a replication of a room in one of our country's national monuments, The Timberline Lodge located at the base of Mt. Hood, Oregon. The stone used to build the (6-sided) fireplace is from a nearby rock slide - and is the same stone used for the fireplace in the original 1937 Ranch homestead, which is now Ranch House Restaurant.
