Youth Programs

Fun, skill-building, and adventure on skis — programs for every young skier.

At Durango Nordic Ski Club, skiing isn’t just a sport—it’s a way to explore, play, and grow. Our youth programs help kids build confidence, develop skills, and make new friends on the snow. Explore the programs below to find the perfect fit for your young skier.

Children resting on snow during a winter outdoor activity, with ski equipment in the background.

SNOWBURNERS

  • Perfect for Beginner + Intermediate Skiers

    Introduce your child to cross-country skiing through fun and games in a non-competitive environment.

    Key Info:

    -  Focus on fun & fundamentals
    -  Discounted registration before mid-December
    -  Rental equipment available
    - Recommended ages 5-14

Group of children and teenagers in winter clothing and ski gear, standing on snow with ski poles, in a snowy landscape with trees in the background.

W.A.C.O

  • Winter Athletic Conditioning Outdoors

    Stay in shape during winter! Ideal for high school athletes focused on fitness for other sports.

    Key Info:

    - Great for mountain bikers, runners, and summer athletes
    - New and experienced skiers welcome!
    - Recommended ages 14-19

Silhouettes of people cross-country skiing on snow-covered terrain at sunset with mountains and trees in the background.

CRUISERS

  • Skill Development & Winter Fun

    For kids who love being outside with friends, improving ski skills, and staying active.

    Key Info:

    - Ideal for less-competitive athletes
    - Open to younger skiers by coach approval
    - Pair with Snowburners for a 3-day ski week option!
    - Recommended ages 8-14

People lying on the snow with their arms and legs spread out, surrounded by skis, in a snowy landscape at night under a cloudy moonlit sky with mountains in the background.

NORDIES

  • Explore the Outdoors

    For adventurous kids who love the wilderness and want to ski off the beaten path.

    Key Info:

    -  Learn to ski on ungroomed trails
    -  Includes an overnight ski adventure!
    - Recommended ages 7-18

Winter Youth Programs:

  • This summer training program is for competitive skiers (U16 and up or advanced U14s) looking to train hard in order to race competitively in the winter. Practices will be 3 hours including a warm up, hard interval of skiing, running or bounding and then a strength training session. In addition to in-person coaching, athletes will have access to a comprehensive and personalized training plan including additional gym or at home strength training.

    Key Info:

    • When: July and  August

    • Days:  Tuesdays and Thursdays

    • Time: 8am - 11:00am (subject to change during high heat weather events)

    • Cost: 2-Month Option (the entire program) = $600 or 1-Month Option = $350

    Registration will close on July 1st. Contact Head Coach, Abe, with questions: headcoach@durangonordic.org

Register Now

Click here to learn about our Youth Race Team

scholarships

We offer scholarships to athletes and families in need of support. Please submit your application prior to the start date of your program, or as soon as possible after YOUR PROGRAM STARTS!

APPLY HERE
Group of five young people in skiing gear standing together on snow-covered ground with mountains in the background.
A cross-country skier in a race, wearing a red, black, and yellow outfit with the number 48, skiing on snow with spectators watching in the background.
Two female cross-country skiers racing in a snowy landscape with evergreen trees and mountains in the background, wearing colorful sports gear and sunglasses.
Children and adults cross-country skiing on a snowy trail in a forested area during winter.
Two young girls standing outdoors in a snowy landscape, waving at the camera with mountains and trees in the background.
A female cross-country skier in a red, white, and blue uniform, wearing sunglasses and a headband, skiing on snow.
Group of people in winter clothing on snow-covered ground with trees and wooden houses in the background, some standing with ski equipment, and two children sitting on the snow.
Group of people in winter clothing with skis and ski poles standing in a snowy landscape during daytime, with a forest of pine trees in the background.