Views on Nordic Ski Trail Easements and Property Values

The Crested Butte Nordic Council is developing a system of skiing trails in cooperation with private landowners that will connect towns and developments throughout the upper valley.

The following quotes are from a brochure the Council provides to inform landowners.

"One of the misconceptions is that properties tend to be devalued if they have trail easements across them or even trails nearby. Nothing could be further from the truth in a resort and vacation mecca like Crested Butte. The judicious placement of a ski trail easement will give a property owner additional recreational opportunities and the perception becomes one of amenities for the property owner rather than a burden."

-- James Gebhardt, Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker Bighorn Realty

"As a property owner at Trappers Crossing I feel that the Nordic Trails have been an asset to our lifestyle and property values. What a great opportunity to be able to hop on our skis and participate in this wonderful sport on your well groomed trails.

"Nordic skiing is surely a low impact sportÉ and today the wildflowers bloom where we skied last winter.

"I would encourage future planning and developments in the Crested Butte area to provide access and rights of ways for the Nordic skier. This investment into the future will not hinder property values and can only encourage a healthy well-rounded community by providing winter access and recreation in this valley during the long winter months."

-- Jeff Neuman, Trappers Crossing Landowner

"When considering the property, we were surprised that there was a right of way for two cross-country ski paths across our land. We do not feel that the ski trails are a problem for several reasons. First, cross-country skiing is a quiet and self-contained sport that follows pre-determined paths. Second, the trails are well situated so that they do not come too close to our proposed homesite. Third, we have some avid cross-country skiers in our family who look forward to being users of these paths. And finally, we believe, that as cross-country skiing is a 'natural' part of the landscape and is an indigenous sport to Crested Butte, there should be a right of way reserved for skiing as new development occurs."

-- Lisa Roberts, Trappers Crossing Landowner

"When I purchased my lot, I was grateful that the developers had already granted a right of way for the Nordic track. I feel that it is so important for these new developers to have a good relationship with the community of Crested Butte and allowing the track to stay in place on the Bench was a wonderful step toward accomplishing that goal. Besides, cross-country skiing is what I consider a 'no impact' sport.

"There has been an unforeseen benefit as well. Since my house is not close to the ski area, I've been able to tell guests and renters that they can not only have the fun of watching this beautiful sport, but can step right out the door and participate! I truly feel that you have enhanced the value of my property in many ways including as a rental property."

-- Phyllis Cowell, Trappers Crossing Landowner

"I was the first purchaser of a Trappers Crossing lot and purposely chose my lot for its proximity to town and its accessibility to the track. Besides recreational opportunities, nordic skiing offers a very low impact method for experiencing and appreciating the wilderness. As a resident and property owner, I could not be more supportive of your efforts."

-- Jeff Hermanson, Trappers Crossing Landowner

More articles in this category

2023 Economic Contribution of Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in Colorado

posted Apr 24, 2024

Colorado offers unique opportunities for motorized recreation throughout much of the state. As such, the sport and industry of motorized recreation has increased in popularity in Colorado, both for residents and non-residents. Abt Global, LLC (Abt) evaluated the economic contribution of motorized recreation throughout Colorado for the 2022–2023 season (July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023). This study is an update based on a previously conducted study, completed in December 2016, that estimated the economic contribution for the 2014–2015 season, referred to as the “2016 study” in this report.

Wisconsin ATV - UTV 2023 Economic Impact Report

posted Apr 24, 2024

In 2023, ATV/UTV riders in Wisconsin were responsible for generating an estimated $4.2 billion in direct economic activity, supporting the creation of 25,845 jobs. This spending was distributed across a wide range of industries including motor vehicle dealers, lodging facilities, restaurants, gas stations, and retail stores. The study provides detailed insights into the scope and size of Wisconsin’s ATV/UTV industry, demonstrating its significant economic footprint.

Bridging the Urban-Rural Economic Divide

posted Oct 26, 2023

It’s time for the narrative to shift from urban vs. rural to a shared economic future. Bridging the economic divide between urban and rural areas will require states, regions and localities to understand and bolster the relationship between urban and rural areas in economically meaningful and strategic ways.

Great Allegheny Passage Economic Impact Report

posted Oct 19, 2023

This report was developed by Fourth Economy in partnership with the Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy (formerly the Allegheny Trail Alliance). Research was conducted between the fall of 2020 and the spring of 2021.

1,104 views • posted 04/03/2018