The University of Denver’s ski team starts the weekend with a series of NCAA invite-only races. But don’t worry–over the weekend the competition lightens up.

Saturday opens with a timed men’s 15K ski and a women’s 10K race, but the citizen’s 5K and kids’ 1K follow.

On Sunday, the recreational ski and snowshoe tours pass by hot-chocolate-and-cookies and wine-and-cheese posts before ending at a barbecue.

Fri, Feb. 6-Sun, Feb. 8, times vary.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch, 3530 County Road 83, Tabernash

970-726-8231, Prices vary, registration