No terrain. No gain.

The change in weather and precipitation does not have to equate to a sentence of uninspiring gym workouts accentuated with blaring pop and rock hits. In fact, you can get one of the greatest workouts outdoors this winter while listening to the best sounds of the 1870s, 80s and 90s.

With the tranquil sounds of gentle wind, falling snowflakes and snapping twigs all around you – complemented by the breathtaking views of the Continental Divide before you – a day of Nordic skiing at Devil’s Thumb Ranch combines the cardio benefits of Zumba with the healing effects of Zen yoga.

Engaging nearly every muscle with both pulling and pushing motions, cross-country skiing – less reliant on gravity than downhill skiing – is a true full-body workout. Add the endless ranch views of peaks and pines and critters and creeks, and heart rates are elevated that much more.

With a variety of trails for everyone from the novice to the Nordic Ninja, the Ranch lures families, fanatics and even Fido to its snow-blanketed terrain daily. Yet one is not limited to gliding atop classic or skate skis through acres upon acres of pristine beauty. A trek on snowshoes or atop a fat bike offers similar slimming and stimulating effects.