Explorers live to chart the unknown recesses of the planet, taking every opportunity to investigate a critter-filled cave, abandoned paper mill, or Pat Boone's storage locker. Enjoy more scenic exploration with today's Groupon: for $10, you get $20 toward the purchase of a one-day trail pass or equipment rental at Flagstaff Nordic Center, located 15 miles northwest of Flagstaff along Highway 180.

Flagstaff nature trails feature scenic cross country skiing and hiking, set in the wilderness of Coconino National Forest. Unlike a jaunt around the world's largest Cheerio, the facility features 40 km of nonredundant trails, all traversable by classic and skating skis, or a pair of snowshoes. There are trail passes for adults, children, and students/seniors. Flagstaff's equipment rentals include pulk sleds and ski packages.

Taking cues from the scenery around it, the Flagstaff facility has been updated with all manner of green technology, including producing its own power through solar and backup generators, employing water-saving techniques, and recycling snowmen. When exploring the nature trails, keep an eye out for the easy-to-reach yurt, the welcoming warming facility with a wood-burning fireplace.

Reviews

Three TripAdvisors give Flagstaff Nordic Center an average of 3.5 owl eyes:

• Miles of groomed trails for x-country. Rentals of diff. types of skis, snowshoes, sleds, ski toboggans for babies… Easy to find, just past snowbowl exit, right off hwy 180. If you stay in the historic part of flagstaff, off route 66 (try aspen suites) this is only 15 mins drive. – LindaRan