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summer 2014

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SUMMER 2014

Boats docked at Grand Elk Marina , Lake Granby.

PHOTO BY BYRON HETZLER

SUMMER 2014 PUBLISHER Matt Sandberg ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Maggie Butler MANAGING EDITOR Tonya Bina ADVERTISING MANAGER Debbie Harris CREATIVE TEAM SUPERVISOR Afton Groepper ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Malisa Samsel CREATIVE TEAM Darin Bliss Ashley Detmering Carly Hoover PHOTO EDITOR Byron Hetzler CONTRIBUTORS Hank Shell Anna Winkel Cindy Kleh Tim Nicklas Gaylene Ore PRINTING & PREPRESS Colorado Mountain News Media CMNM GENERAL MANAGER Jim Morgan

GRAND COUNTY

IS A REALLY SPECIAL PLACE TO

For quintessential Colorado, no better place is Grand County. Our mountain peaks, inspiring vistas, mountain resorts, ranching and mining heritage, national parks, forest and wilderness, and friendly towns offer all that is purely Colorado. Shed your worries, workloads and demands of everyday, and get down to earth with regionally produced food and beverage, the best of nature, relaxation and family fun and entertainment, all here in Grand County. For this magazine, we offer a template for a summer’s day or week's worth of activity, from when the sun rises above Byers, to sunset in the Park, we welcome you to Grand County. Allow us to guide you on the way to …

inside this issue 05 BEOUTGOING A summer schedule of events in our Explore Grand calendar

10 BEACTIVE Mountain biking; fishing the fraser; hot new summer gear

16 BEINSPIRED COVER PHOTO BY

Byron Hetzler/ Sky-Hi News

Rocky Mountain National Park turns 100 years; we offer 100 ways to celebrate.

22 BEWILD

www.skyhidailynews.com news@skyhidailynews.com Phone: 970.887.3334 424 E. Agate Avenue, Granby, CO 80446

The Wilderness Act turns 50 years.

Discover wilderness in Grand County.

26 BECURIOUS Did you know there once were three mining towns in what is now the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park?

28 BEORIGINAL We plucked the most interesting art in local galleries to share with you

30 BEPAMPERED Best spa packages for a happy glow.

32 BEWINED & DINED Chefs throughout Grand embrace locally inspired menus. And find out how to make your own beer, too.

36 BEENTERTAINED A schedule of outdoor movies in Grand; plus, Giddy-up for the local rodeo!

43 BE(P E T )FRIENDLY Our furry four-legged companions love it here too.

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SUMMER 2014

ONGOING EVENTS FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS: MAY 23-AUGUST 30 || Bingo in the Park. Located at the Heckert Pavilion in Grand Lake’s Town Park every Friday and Saturday night, 7:30 p.m.9 p.m., all summer long.

SATURDAYS, MAY 24AUGUST 30 || Saturday Nights in the Park Visit Rocky Mountain National Park’s Kawuneeche Visitor Center, near the Grand Lake entrance, every Saturday Night, at 7 p.m.-8 p.m., to explore various topics related to the inspiring Rocky Mountain National Park. This is a free program and typically last an hour.

For more information call 970-627-3471 or visit nps. gov/romo/index.htm TUESDAYS: JUNE 6AUGUST 5 || Fraser Picnic in the Park Free live music every Tuesday night from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at Old Schoolhouse Park in Fraser. This is a family event, so children can enjoy kids’ activities and play outdoors while the adults enjoy the very fitting acoustic sounds lifting from the valley floor to the rocky peaks. For more information call 970-726-4118 or visit playwinterpark.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 15MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 || Skins and Things Visit the Kawuneeche Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park near Grand Lake, 3:15 p.m., everyday, to examine skins, skulls, antlers, teeth, and bones of park animals.

This is a 40-minute free program. For more information call 970-627-3471 or visit nps.gov/romo/index.htm.

THURSDAYS, JUNE 19-AUGUST 14 || HighNote Thursday Free Concert, every Thursday night, 6 p.m.-8 p.m., Hideaway Park, Winter Park. Enjoy a mix of musical genres, in-

cluding country, bluegrass, acoustics and more. This is a free event for everyone who loves great music. For more information and to see a line-up of performers, visit playwinterpark.com or call 970-726-4118.

FRIDAYS, JUNE 20AUGUST 29 || Freeride Fridays at Winter Park Resort Come hit the park every Friday for special deals and extended hours at Trestle. Call 970-726-1564 for more information or visit winterparkresort.com.

FRIDAYS, JUNE 20AUGUST 22 || Coca-Cola Family Movie Night: FREE ADMISSION The Village at Winter Park presents Family Movie Night!

We will be showing a great selection of family and kid-friendly movies every Friday evening from June 20 - August 22. Movies will be held outdoors on the lawn next to the Private Lesson Center and are free to the public. A limited number of chairs are provided. All movies will begin just after sunset. Times may vary week to week. For more details, contact Guest Services at 303-316-1564.

FRIDAYS, JUNE 20AUGUST 29 || Music on the Mall at Cooper Creek Square Enjoy free live music by the courtyard fountain every Friday night through Aug. 29. This is a free event. Thinking about

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ALL PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

dinner? Enjoy dinner from any of Cooper Creek's restaurants delivered right to your table and never miss a beat. Visit coopercreeksquare.com for performance line-up.

FRIDAYS, JUNE 20SEPTEMBER 5 || Friday Music Series at Winter Park Resort Enjoy a variety of live music on Friday afternoons in the Village gazebo from 4-6 p.m. With a great selection of local and Denver artists, relax by the pond after a long summer day on the mountain. For more information, contact Guest Services at 303-316-1564.

TUESDAYS, JUNE 24AUGUST 26 || S’mores by the Fire at Winter Park Resort Come and join us by the campfire in the Gazebo Plaza for S'mores after your fun-filled day!

This is a free family activity, but s'mores are on a first come, first serve basis from 4-5 p.m. Contact Guest Services for more information at 303-316-1564

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS-JUNE 25AUGUST 30 || Vista Vibe Concert Series at Granby Ranch Granby Ranch presents Vista Vibe, 5 p.m.8p.m., an acoustic patio concert series that is free and fun for all ages! Grab a drink or dinner in Granby Ranch Grill and then sit and enjoy some local favorites!

We are excited to host Kenny Lee Young, Branden Sipes, and many more musicians for you to enjoy.

Check out our website, granbyranch.com, to see which artist is playing each night!

WEDNESDAYS, JUNE 25-AUGUST 27 || Intro to Geocaching Geocaching is a world-wide, high-tech scavenger hunt! This growing sport has participants of all ages hunting for over 820,000 caches in nearly every city, town, and ski slope around the world. It is the activity of using a GPS (global positioning system) handheld device to locate hidden caches or treasure boxes. These caches contain treasure, usually toys or

Visitors examine several of the classic boats on display during the Grand Lake Wooden Boat show at the town docks in Grand Lake.

other little trinkets.

Looking for a little help to get started in your treasure-hunting? Attend the free weekly Introduction to Geocaching class on Wednesdays. Sign up at the Columbia Store and meet at the Gazebo in the Village at 11:15 a.m.

Contact Winter Park Guest Services for more information at 303-316-1564.

THURSDAYS AND SUNDAY, JULY 3AUGUST 28 || Fitness in the Park The Winter Park-Fraser Chamber, Mountain Moon Yoga and Grand Park Community Recreation Center are proud to offer free fitness classes throughout July and August at Hideaway Park in Downtown Winter Park. All classes are designed to accommodate a wide range of experience levels and abilities. Thursday classes run from noon-1 p.m. and offer Hatha Yoga; Sunday classes go from 9 a.m.10 a.m. and offer alternating Yoga and Pilates Mix classes as well as an energetic and enjoyable all level Zumba class from noon1 p.m. *Please bring personal gear if able. Contact the Chamber at 970-726-4118 for details.

SATURDAYS, JULY 5AUGUST 16 || High Country Stampede Rodeo-Jackpot Series Our motto is “The High Country Stamped Rodeo, where everyone has fun!” With beautiful Colorado sunsets and warm summer nights, over 8,000 spectators cheered on Mutton Busters, Calf Scramblers, and more than 2,000 contestants last

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OUTGOING year. This year is going to be even bigger. Gates open each Saturday at 3 p.m. for our Junior Rodeo followed by a mouth watering Chuck Wagon BBQ from 4 p.m.9 p.m. Main performance starts at 7 p.m. So strap in, hold on tight, and ride like never before!

Visit highcountrystampede. com for schedules, ticket information and directions.

Sponsored by the Winter Park Horseman’s Association.

DAILY EVENTS FRIDAY, MAY 23-SUNDAY, MAY 25 The Treasure of Shiver River Melodrama Curtain raises at 8 p.m., Grand Lake Community House. A holiday tradition for many years, this audience participation event provides wholesome entertainment for the whole family. Boo the villain and cheer for the hero in this traditional comic play.

Call 970-531-0804 or visit grandartscouncil.com for more information.

SATURDAY, MAY 24 Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act Rocky Mountain National Park Kawuneeche Visitors Center, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., offering a moderate hike to a hidden meadow and a picturesque creek.

Contact 970-627-3471 or visit nps.gov/romo/index. htm for details.

Spring Art Champagne Social Cozens Ranch Museum proudly host an exclusive preview of paintings by merit Esmoil, artist from Grand County. Esmoil worked with diverse media from landscapes to modern abstractions to designing campgrounds for the USDA Forest Service. The Grand County Historical Society was bequeathed Esmoil’s painting and they are displayed here for the first time. This event is Free is GCHA members and only $5 for the general public.

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Call 970-726-5488 for more information and to register.

SUNDAY, MAY 25 Memorial Day BBQ Kick of the summer at Devil’s Thumb Ranch in Tabernash for our Memorial Day BBQ. Join us for an old-fashioned and delicious Chef-prepared all you can eat good time from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The cost is $29 pp and allows Happy Hour drink specials with purchase. For more information, call 970-726-7013.

MONDAY, MAY 26 Memorial Day Parade in Grand Lake Start time 10 a.m., Grand Avenue.

Enjoy this annual tradition to kick-off the summer.

The parade and ceremony honor those who served to protect our nations in the western gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park. Afterwards, enjoy live music at town park. Veterans receive complimentary coffee and breakfast at Pancho & Lefty’s and treated to a potluck after the ceremony. Call 970-6273402 for more details.

SATURDAY, MAY 31 Rocky Mountain Repertory TheatrePrelude! Don’t miss this meet-and-greet with the entire Repertory Theatre family. Be the first to rub elbows with the 2014 Company at the Western Riviera Lakeside Events Center in Grand Lake. Be privy to a musical sneak preview of the season during the lively cocktail hour. Admission is $135. Call 970-627-3421 for more details or visit rockymoutainrep.com for the full schedule of summer shows.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7-SUNDAY JUNE 8 Daven Haven Acoustics Festival The Daven Haven Lodge will be hosting an Acoustics Festival for all to enjoy. With two days of music featuring local and front range acoustic musicians,

SUMMER 2014

A rider crosses Vasquez Creek during the Epic Singletrack Series race in Winter Park.

food and fun, you can witness how good tunes and nature are a perfect match.

For more information call 970-627-3402 or visit davenhavenlodge.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 8 Ridethe-Rockies comes to Winter Park Enjoy all of the entertainment that comes with this amazing bike ride event. From 11 a.m.-4 p.m. you can welcome long-distance riders, have lunch, feast at the Taste of Winter Park, and relax with a live concert featuring The Samples. It’s a great day to be in the Rockies. Call 970-726-4118 or visit playwinterpark.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 13SATURDAY, JUNE 14 15th Annual Grand Classic Golf Tournament Teeing-off Friday at 10 a.m., Granby Ranch/Pole Creek. 2 days, 2 beautiful pro courses. All are invited to participate or watch. The event benefits the Grand Foundations and the Fraser Valley Rec. Youth Programs.

For more information call 888-850-4615 or visit grandfoundation.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 13-SUNDAY, JUNE 15 Kremmling Days This long-time tradition in Kremmling is a community celebration featuring Fireman Games, homebaked pies, live music, contests and much, much more. Kicking off Friday evening with a concert in the park and continues Saturday morning with a parade down Park Avenue. For a full schedule description, visit kremmlingchamber.com/ events/kremmlingdays.html.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14 Beers and Gears Enduro Race Series at Granby Ranch Join us for this year's Gears and Beers Enduro Race Series at Granby Ranch. This is the first of four days of our enduro series throughout the summer. Gears and Beers is a fun race to get out on the mountain and test your skills. Each race will feature three different enduro stages, including uphill and downhill biking. Registration is $39 per race which includes a lift ticket and a burger and beer at the end of the race. To compete in our enduro race series you

need a smart phone and the Strava application. You can also sign up for all four days of racing for $149. Call 888850-4615 (choose the Bike option) for more information and registration! Trail routes are released two weeks prior to the race and only to those who are registered.

Habitat Hobble This 5K/10K Fun Run benefits Habitat for Humanity of Grand County. This is a pet-friendly event with live music, food, and a silent auction. Beginning and ending at Cooper Creek Square in Winter Park, this is one of the funnest runs of the season and all for a Great cause!

Entrance fee is $25 by June 6 and $30 afterwards. Contact Joan Boyle at 970-887-9138 for more information or register online at habitatgrandcounty.org .

Opening Day Winter Park Resort: Summer Activities Favorite attractions include the alpine slide, amaz-nhuman-maze, leaps and bounds bungee, rock-n-roll gyro and outdoor climbing wall. All at the base of Winter Park Resort. Summer activities run from June 14-September 28, 2014. For more information, please call 970-726-1564.

Winter Park Chocolate Festival A treat for the Winter Park vacationers and a destination for chocolate lovers around the state!

10 a.m.-4 p.m. in The Village.

Everyone loves chocolate!

The Winter Park Chocolate Festival will include chocolate samples and fine chocolates for sale from a wide variety of regional vendors. Special guests and a full-day's event schedule round out the fun!

Epic Singletrack Race #1: Excel Roofing Hill Climb Starting at 9,080’, this extreme race covers 5.2 miles and rises to 11,142’. Check-in starts at 8 a.m.; race begins promptly at 10 a.m. For more information, visit epicsingletrack.com or call the Winter Park Competition Center at 970-726-1590.

Moonlight Zip Tour Come join us for a zip line tour under the moonlight! Devil’s Thumb Ranch will outfit you with headlamps and guide you through our five zip lines that traverse two hilltops nestled in our little valley. Each zip line increases in height, distance, and speed! The tour will end with a complementary beverage. The tour last 3 hours from 8 p.m.-11 p.m. and cost $99 pp. Please call us at 970-726-8231 for more details and to register.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14-SUNDAY, JUNE 15 The Soul of the Rockies Arts & Crafts Fair This is the first of four Arts & Crafts Fairs to be held in Grand Lake, the Soul of the Rockies!

Join us for a full weekend of genuine and authentic handmade items. Find everything from jewelry, western themed materials, paintings, and just about anything else that you imagine the Rockies to be. Contact the Grand Lake Chamber at 970-627-3402 for more details. Admission and a good time for the entire family are free! Events times are Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 20 Flying Heels Rodeo Children’s Buckaroo Rodeo starts at 3 p.m., followed by the Open Rodeo at 7 p.m.

Located just a short distance south of downtown Granby, enjoy an entire afternoon of boot-stompin’ wild action.

From buckin’ broncs to calf ropin’ and bull ridin’, you will have the time of your life.

For more details, call 970-887-2005.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21 State Chili Cook-off at Grand Lake State Chili Championship at the Grand Lake Town Park, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. This is the “official” Red, Green, and Salsa Championship for the State of Colorado. The event is open to everyone. Contact the Grand Lake Chamber at 970-627-8428.

Art & Architecture Tour Grand Lake, 1 p.m.-5 p.m., sponsored by the Grand Lake Arts Council. Tour five homes in the area, including a beautiful old home on Grand Lake and four other unique homes. Your $25 ticket includes the tour of these homes and an after party at Sagebrush Grill to enjoy appetizers and drinks.

For $150, not only do you get the five-home tour and after party but you will also participate in the sixthHouse Dinner. A magnificent multi-course feast with wine or beer pairings in a most gorgeous setting. For more information call 970-627-3402 or visit grandlake chamber.com.

Flying Heels Rodeo 2nd Annual “Diaper Derby Challenge”. Bikers take on the Cowboys! Bring a package of diapers, newborn to age 3, and get ½ off your entrance fee, 2 p.m.-4 p.m., Granby. This fundraiser benefits Pregnancy Resource Connection. Call 970-8873617 for more information.

SATURDAY, JUNE 21-SUNDAY, JUNE 22 Grand Slammers Baseball Tournament Baseball at 9,000 Ft. This three-day tournament kicks off Friday night under the lights in Granby. Throughout Saturday and Sunday there will be more than 50 games held on the fields in Granby and Fraser with teams from all over the state. Stop by to cheer on your hometown team, the Grand Slammers, as they host their first tournament and fight to take home the trophy! Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Grand Slammers Youth Baseball, a Grand County non-profit. Go to grandcountybaseball.com or cabacolorado.com for times and schedules of games.

FRIDAY, JUNE 27-SUNDAY, JUNE 29 12th Annual Blues Festival Blues From the Top; Blues from around the world is presented by the Grand County Blues Society.

Kick-off the weekend with a Friday night Pre-Fest party at Smokin’ Moe’s (located in Cooper Creek Square, Winter Park). Great music and fun all day Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. at Hideaway Park, continuing on from 9 p.m. at Smokin’ Moes Ribhouse & Saloon.

Visit playwinterpark.com for more details and to buy your festival tickets.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28 Epic Singletrack Race #2: Super Loop Race #2 hits the singletrack with our super loop course that has some new twists (goal - more singletrack!). Racing for all ages and abilities. Check-in starts at 8 a.m. The race begins promptly at 10 a.m.

For more information, visit epicsingletrack.com or call the Winter Park Competition Center at 970-726-1590.

Winter Park HalfMarathon Looking for a challenge? Leave the city behind to enjoy this stunning, remote race. It is perfect

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OUTGOING for athletes of all levels, but will surely push you to your limits as you enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

100 percent of proceeds benefit the Shining Stars Foundations and children living with cancer. For more information visit shingstarsfoundation.org/events/winter-park-half-marathon.

20th Annual Signature Golf Tournament Grand Lake welcomes golfers to their twentieth annual Signature Golf Tournament surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains. With a welcome party Friday, June 27 at Pancho & Lefty’s at 5 p.m., an awards ceremony at Grand Lake Golf Course followed by an after party at Daven Haven Backstreet Steakhouse & Pub, anyone who participates is sure to gather fond memories.

For more information and details visit grandlakechamber.com/grandlakegolf.

SUNDAY, JUNE 29 Walk off the WarWarrior Hike Come join our Warrior Hikers as they trek into Grand Lake and a welcome reception at Daven Haven, 6 p.m. All are welcome to participate, meet the soldiers, show support, and encourage them onward, as well as join them on the start of their hike the following day after enjoying a send-off breakfast at Trail River Ranch at 9 a.m.

Warrior Hike has partnered with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, and the Pacific Crest Trail Association to create the “Walk off the War” program.

This program is designed to support combat veterans transitioning from their military service by thruhiking America’s National Scenic Trails. Go to warriorhike.com for more information or contact Duane Dailey at 970-725-3122.

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FRIDAY, JULY 4TH Granby Parade The biggest small town parade in Colorado beginning at 11 a.m. The parade proceeds down main street of Granby as children and adults applaud their arrival.

4th of July Kid's Carnival at Granby Ranch After you go to the Granby Parade head on over to Granby Ranch for an afternoon of fun from 1-4 p.m. Grab a burger or hot dog and let your kids enjoy the carnival.

We have free face painting, a bounce house, carnival games, and relay races set up for your kids. The relay races will begin around 2pm. Adults come grab a drink from the Granby Ranch Grill and enjoy the DJ on the back patio. It's a great way to be with your family, friends, and enjoy beautiful Granby on the 4th of July.

Lance Gutersohn’s 4th of July Celebration Start your celebration early by visiting the Annual Fraser Valley Lion's Club Pancake Breakfast in downtown Winter Park from 8-11 a.m., then join us at the Lance Gutersohn's 4th of July Celebration for a full afternoon of good plain fun! The Fraser Sports Complex will be bustling with activities including kids games and inflatables, hay rides, balloon rides by REMAX, a community picnic with food vendors available on site. Activities will be happening from 4 p.m. until dark when the REMAX Peak to Peak Fireworks Display begins. For more information call the Winter Park Fraser Chamber at 970-726-4118.

Fire up the Cliffs A small town Independence Day celebrations that begins at 6 p.m. in the Kremmling Town Square. With a BBQ dinner, home baked pies, live music and plenty of games for the kids, you will be ready to sit back and

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enjoy the spectacular fireworks display off the cliffs at dark. For more information call 970-724-3472 or visit kremmlingchamber.com.

Grand Lake Fireworks Extravaganza Join the Grand Lake Chamber and community in celebrating this year’s Independence Day Celebration on the the lakefront at dark. Bring a lawn chair or a picnic for the family and enjoy the surroundings prior to the night sky lighting up. For more details call 970-627-3402.

SATURDAY, JULY 5 The 2014 Rendezvous Run for Independence Continue your 4th of July celebration right and join us in beautiful Winter Park, Colorado's Favorite Playground, for the Run 4 Independence 5 Mile run/ walk. Race begins at the Vintage Hotel, 9 a.m., near the Winter Park Ski Resort.

Competitors wind their way through the resort village, along the Fraser River Trail, through green forests and

open valleys, and the town of Winter Park. Shuttle service begins at 6:30 a.m.

Call 970-726-4118 or visit playwinterpark.com for race details.

The Village Uncorked!

Stroll through The Village at Winter Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and visit with local Grand County artists as they show off their talents in this one-of-a-kind arts festival.

Regional wines and cheeses will also be available for sampling. Purchase one-ofa-kind photography, paintings, jewelry and more. Plus, bring your kids for free face painting and caricatures!

Admission to The Village UnCorked! is free. Unlimited tasting from noon to 4 p.m. is $25. For more details visit winterparkresort.com.

4th Annual Winter Park SolShine Music Festival A FREE show from 6 p.m.9 p.m. in downtown Winter Park at the Hideaway Park Amphitheater. Gates open at 5 p.m. Rob Drabkin opens for G. Love & Special Sauce.

SATURDAY, JULY 5-SUNDAY, JULY 6 Trestle Gravity Series Race in the 2014 Trestle® Gravity Series at Winter Park Resort and get your chance at taking home some of the thousands of dollars in prize money to be awarded throughout the series. The 2014 Trestle Gravity Series consists of 6 races over 3 weekends.

Each race occurs in the morning, leaving the rest of the day open to enjoy Trestle Bike Park! Visit winterparkresort.com for registration details and race schedules.

FRIDAY, JULY 11 2014 Second Annual Family Flyfishing Event The Colorado Headwaters Chapter of TU is hosting an event at the amazing Trail River Ranch property in Rocky Mountain National Park on July 11, 2014 from 10 p.m.-2 p.m. and includes lunch. This is a family fly fishing day and is sure to be very popular again. Last year's event sold out, so sign up early.

TU will provide fly fishing instructors (volunteers are needed) and loaner equipment. All proceeds go to preserving and protecting the Trail River Ranch. Cost is $150 per family of three if registration is completed online. Email jerrynis@gmail.com for more information.

SATURDAY, JULY 12 Epic Singletrack Race #3: Rendezvous Circuit Race #3 hits the singletrack with Race Rendezvous. Check-in starts at 8 a.m. The race begins promptly at 10am.

For more information, visit epicsingletrack. com, call the Winter Park Competition Center at 970726-1590 or 303.316.1590, or email ccenter@ winterparkresort.com.

Fourth of July fireworks light the sky over Granby.

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ACTIVE

Less is more in hot new summer gear From mountain to water, manufacturers think innovation

by Cindy Kleh

S

ports gear has come a long way in the past few decades in terms of technology and selection. But at some point, you have to look at your storage closet and wonder if some of that gear couldn’t multi-task.

Manufacturers are responding to this notion with a new trend helping to stretch consumer investments as well as use.

WATER SOLUTIONS Most outdoor enthusiasts carry in their own water on adventures because untreated stream water is generally unsafe to drink. But water weighs a hefty 8.33 pounds per gallon, so Local Experience, in Winter Park, offers some ingenious ways to forgo water lugging. CamelBak manufactures the All Clear UV Purifier that purifies water in 60 sec. with the push of a button. It is rechargeable by USB, lasts about 80 cycles per charge and is good for 10,000 cycles. Local Experience also carries the Frontier Sport Water Bottle Filter, which simply drops in to a CamelBak water bottle for filtered water whenever you want. If you’re really into being a minimalist, the pocket-sized Frontier Emergency Water Filter by Aquamira traps 99.9 Percent of Cryptosporidium and Giardia with an activated coconut shell carbon filter. (You will need to lie down to suck the water from the stream.)

SUPER SHOES Eric Russell, co-owner of Local Experience, has also noticed a trend toward multi-useful sports shoes. He pointed to the Go-Lite XT Comp as a perfect example of a fashionable, lightweight trail running shoe with a Gecko Grip sole and stiffer toe box for walking off-pavement.

HAPPY TOES The best-selling item at the shop is currently toe socks for blister prevention and moisture management — anatomically designed for left and right feet and so low-profile that you don’t feel any material or seams between the toes. Better yet, they are relatively inexpensive ($10-17 per pair) and come in a variety of vibrant colors. “If you have toes that tuck under each other, these socks prevent that and give you better balance and proper toe alignment (unlike the trendy toe shoes which splay the toes and lead to overuse injuries),” explained Lara Kurtak, co-owner of Local Experience.

The socks can be used for any sport, such as skiing, golfing, running and biking.

GRAVEL GRINDER In the past three to five years, the whole aspect of cross-over road biking has been catching on, according to Keith Sanders, owner of four ski and bike shops in Grand County and an accomplished competitor in mountain biking and cyclocross.

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“These are road bikes designed for off-road use,” explained Sanders, as he showed off a new “gravel grinder,” — a style of bike with a more comfortable body position and easier handling compared to the standard road bike. Gravel grinders have wider tires that can take advantage of the many dirt roads in Grand County that are low in traffic and high on scenery.

The Gravel Grinder has disc brakes and handle bars in a higher position, but the bars are curved like a road bike for efficiency and less wind resistance.

FLOATING ON YOUR FEET One of the hottest new sports out there is stand up paddling.

But stand up paddling is not really new. “Hoe he'e nalu” grew as a sport in the Hawaiian Islands after legendary surfer, Duke Kahanamoku, was given an “Austrailian surfski” in 1939.

Not only was the long paddle more efficient than mere arms for gaining speed to catch waves, a surfer standing up could see sets of waves on the horizon sooner. The sport started to explode in popularity in California in 2005, and from there, it spread worldwide because it’s beginner-friendly and a great workout.

Pump it up! — Inflatable stand-up paddleboards are relatively new on the scene, but have the advantages of durability and transportability. The entire craft can be rolled up to take camping or backpacking. The smaller size board is 10 feet long and 6 inches thick, and weighs 20 pounds with a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. The larger size is 14 feet long and eight inches thick, and can hold up to 800 pounds. Inflatable paddleboards open up a whole new world of camping and fishing possibilities.

“You can fit a cooler, a bundle of wood, your dog and your backpack on the board and paddle to an island or use it to fish a glacial lake. It also doubles as an air mattress,” said Mark Zieff with Island Adventure Tour (702-884-8734). Rocky Mountain Outfitters in Grand Lake rents Zieff’s Tower Board’s inflatable stand up paddleboards for cruising around the shores of Grand Lake. Trail Ridge Marina on Shadow Mountain Reservoir also rents inflatable paddleboard gear.

More experienced paddleboarders can conquer the Upper Colorado River by renting inflatable SUP boards and gear from AVA Rafting in Kremmling, and that can be on a full or half-day guided trip with drop off and pick up provided on the river.

The 2014 Season at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre Has Arrived!

Les Miserables June 13 - August 23

Hands on a Hardbody June 20 - August 21

Shrek The Musical July 5 - August 22

Double Trouble

(A Musical Tour de Farce) August 29 - September 27

Get Your tickets At (970) 627-3421 rockymountainrep.com Located in BeautifuL Grand Lake, co

ACTIVE

Catch, release, and conserve The Fraser River inspires anglers, advocates

by Anna Winkel

I

f every good fisherman has a story about “the one that got away,” fly fisherman Eric Palmer has thousands of such stories.

Because they all get away.

The Winter Park resident averages 125 days per year with his fly rod in hand and has never eaten a morsel of his fresh trout.

He releases every one.

“I love it [fishing] so much I don’t want to kill any of the fish,” said Palmer. “I just want them to get bigger so I can keep catching them.”

Fly fishing is a unique sport because it combines nimble hands for fly-tying with quick wits for strategy.

Choosing the right fly for the conditions is a huge challenge, and that is part of why it’s addicting.

“Every day is completely different,” Palmer said. “And then there’s the thrill of catching the fish. You don’t know if it’s going to be 6 inches- or 26 inches-long when you first hook it.”

EISENHOWER’S FISHING LEGACY The fishing in the Fraser River is of such quality, President Dwight “Ike” Eisenhower often cast his line here. He stayed at Byers Creek Ranch near Fraser, dubbed the “Western Whitehouse” during his administration.

A bronze likeness of Eisenhower nets a trout near the Lion’s Club fishing ponds in Fraser. He is quoted as having said, “Who’s counting my fish?” in response to a Denver newspaper headline that accused him of keeping more than his legal limit during a Colorado fishing trip in 1952.

ENDANGERED WATERS But the Fraser River of Eisenhower’s era was a different river than it is today.

In 2005 the Fraser River was identified as the third most endangered river in the United States. The two main culprits: An estimated 60 percent of the river’s native flow is diverted for use in the more populous Denver area. And excessive

√ WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE FISHING THE FRASER RIVER

» Colorado fishing license required for anyone over 15 years of age » Above St. Louis Creek confluence use artificial flies and lures only » Catch and release all rainbow trout above St. Louis Creek confluence » Carry a thermometer. Once the water temperature reaches 65 degrees, stop fishing » High water temperatures stress the fish. At 70 degrees, fish may begin to die

TYPES OF FISH IN THE FRASER RIVER Brown Trout Cuthroat Trout Rainbow Trout Brook Trout

sediment builds up from the large amounts of sand spread on Berthoud Pass to improve road conditions during the winter months.

Recent changes in the depth, temperature, and flows of the river impact the insect populations, which ultimately hurts the fishery.

Winter Park Fly Fisher Guides owner and guide Jeff Ehlert has noticed.

“The Fraser has a diverse insect population but we’ve lost a lot of green drake,” he said. “It’s a big insect so you get every fish in the river gorging on them.”

Ehlert explained that the last good hatch of green drake, lasting

We are the guardians of the river from the top. What we do affects a lot of people and a lot of wildlife.”

— Scott Linn, one of founders, Colorado Headwaters Chapter of Trout Unlimited 12

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SUMMER 2014

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PHOTO BY BYRON HETZLER

HAPPY HOUR

8-10 days, occurred seven years ago.

“Last year I only saw one,” he said.

Many local anglers’ passion for fishing has led them away from the riverbanks to the political arena.

Scott Linn, one of the founders of the Colorado River Headwaters Chapter of Trout Unlimited, sees “fisherman” as only one of his roles.

“I fish,” he said like it was an afterthought. Linn is more an advocate and educator. “We are the guardians of the river from the top. What we do affects a lot of people and a lot of wildlife.”

The efforts of Trout Unlimited to raise awareness of the Fraser’s plight contributed to a recent landmark agreement with Denver Water, Colorado’s oldest and largest water utility.

Under the new agreement, the water still gets diverted, but leaves flows in the river that more closely mimic nature.

“It’s new thinking in the water world,” Linn said.

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13

ACTIVE

Summer events to sharpen cyclists’ competitive edge Summer events lineup in “Mountain Bike Capital USA” offers events for every rider ability

by Gaylene Ore

14

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RIDE THE ROCKIES – JUNE 8

ROCK N’ RIDE – JULY 12-13

Winter Park is proud to be part of the first stage of the Denver Post's 29th Annual Ride the Rockies cycling tour. A non-competitive event, participants ride from Boulder and back to Golden, testing their endurance while creating unforgettable memories over the span of six days, 473 miles and 28,265 vertical feet. Winter Park spectators can welcome riders as they roll in from the 89-mile leg from Boulder on June 8. The festivities include a restaurant sampling for a “Taste of Winter Park” and a free concert in Hideaway Park featuring The Samples.

For more information on the route, stops and sponsors visit ridetherockies.com.

GEARS & BEERS ENDURO RACE SERIES – JUNE 14, JULY 26, AUG. 16, SEPT.13 This new event at Bike Granby Ranch features a three-stage series.

Each stage will be timed, and the shortest time for all three stages wins the day. Stage No. 1 is an uphill climb followed by downhill trail. Stage No. 2 is a short cross-country race with maximum distance of about 10 miles.

Stage No. 3 is a downhill race via lift access.

Registration is $39 per race or $149 for all four races. Call 888-850-4615 to register.

2014 EPIC SINGLETRACK SERIES – JUNE 14 – AUG. 23

2014 marks the 22nd year of epic cross-country racing hosted by the Winter Park Competition Center. The largest cross-country race series in Colorado, the Epic Singletrack Series includes over 600 miles of singletrack in the Winter Park and Fraser Valley.

Six different race categories challenge riders of all levels each Saturday, June 14, June 28, July 12, July 26, Aug. 9 and Aug. 23.

More details available at epicsingletrack.com.

SUMMER 2014

A brand new event to Winter Park, Saturday includes a variety of cross-country tours for all riding abilities, and the Epic Singletrack Race No. 3. After the event there’s a free concert at Hideaway Park featuring Leftover Salmon.

Registration starts on May 14 on the Mountain Bike Capital USA website.

WOMEN, WHEELS & WINE – JULY 19

The lead riders in the men's pro division make their way down the Ice Hill trail during the Epic Singletrack race in Winter Park.

TRESTLE GRAVITY SERIES 2014 – JULY 5 - SEPT. 1

Amateurs and professionals do some serious cycling in the Trestle Gravity Series, featuring six races in three weekends: July 5-6; July 20; Aug. 30-31 and Sept. 1. Male and female racers ages 14 and up can enter one, two or all three of the events and compete for prize money, as well as end-of-season awards.

WINTER PARK & FRASER CHAMBER The Winter Park & Fraser Chamber is a nonprofit Colorado corporation created to help further and maintain responsible growth in the Winter Park area.

Improve form and timing with tips and tricks from Granby Ranch’s bike experts, then test your new skills with two hours of open ride time. Dust off après-bike with a complimentary wine tasting and appetizers, slopeside at Granby Ranch Grill.

Registration is $160 per person (with gear) and $90 per person (without gear). Register by calling (888) 8504615.

COLORADO FREERIDE FESTIVAL – JULY 24-27

The best mountain bikers in the world return to Winter Park Resort and Trestle Bike Park to compete for over $45,000 in prize money. Spectators can watch the champs battle it out in slopestyle, Enduro World Series racing, air downhill, cross- country and pond crossing events.

For more information or to register for the event go to coloradofreeridefestival.com.

2ND ANNUAL EPIC 50 – SEPT. 6

The Winter Park Competition Center will host the 2nd annual Epic 50 endurance race. Novices, experts and pros ride solo or in relay pairs on a 25-mile loop consisting of classic Fraser Valley singletrack and county connecting roads.

More information at epicsingletrack. com/epic50.

PHOTO BY BYRON HETZLER

T

he Winter Park & Fraser Chamber invites bike riders to gear up for the area's summer bike events and races.

The Winter Park area is nicknamed “Mountain Bike Capital USA,” and recently a new website (MTBcapitalUSA.com) and branding campaign were launched to laud the moniker. The campaign encourages visitors to “put some mountains in your mountain biking” by visiting Winter Park.

Winter Park’s races and festivals are just one way to enjoy Mountain Bike Capital USA’s 600-plus miles of trails. The region also boasts two downhill bike parks: Bike Granby Ranch and Trestle Bike Park, the fastest-growing bike park in North America. The parks offer lift-serviced downhill and cross-country trails for experts and beginners alike, equipment rentals, as well as coaching and private lessons.

Here’s a look at the events that are in store this summer.

EXPLORE THE ROCKIES THE OLD FASHIONED WAY Photographing the Continental Divide out your car window just isn’t the same as viewing it from horseback.

Nothing really replaces the sense of awe experienced by early Colorado settlers as you duck through spruce and pine forests, meander across meadows of sage and columbine, and ride quietly past herds of grazing deer or a wandering fox or moose… All the while surrounded by stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Uniquely situated on the 5,200 acre YMCA property, Sombrero Stables at Snow Mountain Ranch is open for horseback riding year round, for all ages and abilities.

Or join Old Man Nibbles, who sticks out his tongue for the camera, and a number of other kid-friendly horses, and take your whole family on a 1 or 2 hour ride. Looking for more adventure? Join us on our 3 and 4 hour rides as we summit “9 Mile” and Sheep Mountain. While you’re here, don’t forget to stop by the farm and say hi to our noisy spring goats and lambs, all vying for your attention!

A REAL OLD WEST EXPERIENCE

CHUCK WAGON MEALS

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Our Pony Posse – the ladies Peaches, Spirit, and Flicka – look forward to carrying the little Buckaroo in your family on a lead-around pony ride.

Add a meal, and dismount beside the century old Rowley Homestead to enjoy a home-cooked chuck wagon spread. From all you can eat pancakes to Colorado Steaks cooked to order, it’s the perfect way to start –or endyour Rocky Mountain Day. For those who would prefer not to ride, Wagons pulled by our 2000lb draft horses are also available. Come meet giant Chad who stands at 19 hands (6 feet at his shoulder) or the affable Clydesdales Junior and Scotty.

Sombrero Stables at Snow Mountain Ranch is part of many family traditions, and we invite you to start yours with us this year.

(970) 887-1999 or (970) 887-2152, ext. 4146 Located at Snow Mountain Ranch/YMCA of the Rockies

www.sombrero.com s k y h i da i ly n e ws .co m

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INSPIRED

ways to enjoy A

CENTURY AGO, mountaineers, statesmen and early environmentalists came together to protect a beloved swath of Colorado mountain landscape. Thanks to their efforts that land endures.

Rocky Mountain National Park was dedicated on Jan. 26, 1915, and this year marks the kickoff of its 100th birthday celebration.

“The 100thAnniversary is not only a way to celebrate the first 100 years of history, but also the next 100 years,” said Barbara Scott, the Park’s anniversary coordinator.

The Park’s future isn’t without its challenges. A changing climate is altering its delicate alpine ecosystem.

Increasing urbanization threatens wildlife. And as society becomes more dig-

01

CELEBRATE THE NIGHT SKY with a ranger-led astronomy programs. Telescope viewings are available on at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center throughout the summer.

2. Explore the Colorado River Headwaters ecology and history on a ranger-led Coyote Valley River Walk.

3. Check out high-alpine 16

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SUMMER 2014

itally connected, many are making fewer trips outdoors.

National parks must grapple with staying relevant.

Still, there’s no doubt people love Rocky Mountain National Park. They travel from near and far to witness its extremes, to reconnect with nature and to channel the wild mountain landscape that has inspired humanity since before history was recorded.

In honor of this monumental birthday, we’ve assembled 100 ways to celebrate the Park’s “wilderness, wildlife and wonder” with a focus on the Park’s west side and gateway in Grand County. Jump in and experience all things quintessentially Rocky, build stories of your own and continue adding to the Park’s legacy. wildflowers. Peak bloom season is typically the third week in July.

4. Go on an overnight backpacking trip.

5

7. Walk through a slice of early Colorado history by exploring Lulu City, an old mining town that thrived during the 1870s and 1880s.

8. Visit Shadow Mountain Lookout, the only surviving wildfire watchtower in the park.

Originally constructed in the late 1920s and early 1930s, the tower hasn’t been fully staffed since 1968. Park officials used the tower again during the wildfire summers of 2012 and 2013, however, and could use it again in 2014 depending on the season’s fire danger.

09

SEE A DEVASTATED LANDSCAPE ON THE HILLS AROUND GRAND LAKE, WHERE THE PINE BEETLE EPIDEMIC BEGAN OVER A DECADE AGO.

10. Climb the Never Summer Range on the Park’s boundary, and learn how the mountains got their name.

11. Visit the north and east inlets in spring to watch them swell with snow runoff.

EXPERIENCE THE ELK RUT IN 12. Take a week to become LATE FALL. acclimated to the Park’s high

6. Drive Trail Ridge Road.

It’s RMNP’s “highway to the sky,” peaking at 12,183 feet.

altitude, then hike Mount Ida, a 12,880-foot peak with a hike that has a 2,112 elevation gain.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

by Leia Larsen

13. Capture a photograph

of a moose, preferably with a long lens.

14. Enroll your kids in “Rocky’s Junior Ranger Program”

15

ADMIRE THE GEOLOGICAL HISTORY OF THE KAWUNEECHE VALLEY, CARVED FROM GLACIERS OVER 20,000 YEARS AGO.

16. Listen for the squeaks

of pikas, the vocal “rock rabbits” that can be found scurrying through rocky areas in the tundra, collecting food for winter.

17. Snap a photo of the

colorful aspen leaves, which change from vibrant green in summer to golden yellow, starting in September.

18. Make the short hike up

22. Take the Grand Ditch

loop off the Colorado River Trail, and observe one of the state’s first trans-mountain water diversions. The Grand Ditch was first constructed in 1890, and is still has an active right-of-way delivering 20,000 acre-feet of water over the Continental Divide each year. The ditch breached in 2003, scarring the nearby hillside.

23. Tap your inner mycologist and hunt for the many varieties of mushrooms growing in the Park. Remember, it’s illegal to collect mushrooms in Park boundaries, so take photographs instead.

GOBBLE UP SOME SWEET WILD RASPBERRIES, HUCKLEBERRIES AND STRAWBERRIES, WHICH PEAK IN THE EARLY FALL.

24

Huffer Hill, right outside the Alpine Visitor Center, and marvel at the view from 12,000 feet.

25. Take a guided

19. Try biking Trail Ridge

26. Enjoy the view from

Road in April, before it opens to vehicles.

20. Pick up some children’s nature books at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center.

21. Have a picnic at the

Coyote Valley Trailhead, then take the short one-mile hike —it’s wheelchair accessible.

snowshoeing tour with a Park Ranger in the winter.

“Colorado’s Favorite Front Porch” at the Grand Lake Lodge.

27. Stroll through the Grand Lake Cemetery. It’s one of only a few active cemeteries located within a national park. Many of the town’s rugged pioneer founders are buried there.

countdown to the park’s centennial starts now

RMNP BY THE NUMBERS 72 peaks over 12,000 feet 100 square miles of alpine tundra 359 miles of hiking trails 95 percent designated as wilderness.

170 million visitors to RMNP since 1915.

416 square miles total

28. Volunteer your time to help with trail maintenance, historic interpretation or campground hosting.

29. Attend one of the public

presentations from the artist-inresident program to learn about the stories and scenery inspiring artists working within the Park’s boundaries.

30. Take a walk along the

East Shore Trail. You soon might be able to bike it, too — it’s an important link on a county-wide effort to link each town by bicycle.

If approved, the trail will become an important leg connecting Grand Lake to Granby.

31. Even if you can’t make it for the centennial celebrations, pick up a copy of Rocky Mountain National Park: The First 100 Years, available online at http:// www.marytayloryoung.com/ to commemorate the Park’s birthday.

32. Get up early and make

the difficult but rewarding hike up Long’s Peak, the Park’s most famous summit and only 14er. Be sure to check conditions beforehand and come prepared.

33

TAKE A MOONLIT CROSSCOUNTRY SKI OR SNOWSHOE OUTING.

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The Shadow Mountain Lookout on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park is the only surviving wildfire watchtower in the park.

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

54.

TAKE YOUR YEARLY FAMILY PHOTO WITH THE PARK’S BREATHTAKING SCENERY AS A BACKDROP

46. Channel your inner

entomologist by trying to identify some of the Park’s 141 identified butterfly species to date.

47. Make the drive up to the Alpine Visitor Center

34. Take a hike up 12,007-

foot Mountain Craig and enjoy the view through the glacial valley to Grand Lake. See why the mountain is known locally as “Mount Baldy.”

35. Catch (and release) trout in an alpine lake.

36. Take a horseback tour

through the park. Around 260 miles of trails are open to horse use.

37. Bundle up, take plenty of

gear, and try winter camping in the Park.

38

HIKE THE 30 MILES OF THE ICONIC CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL LOCATED WITHIN THE PARK’S BOUNDARIES.

39. Hike or drive up to the Continental Divide, simultaneously observing where watersheds lead both west to the Pacific Ocean and east to the Atlantic Ocean.

18

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tracks from bears, fox and moose.

48. Learn about the Kawuneeche Valley’s birds through a class with Rocky Mountain Nature Association during prime nesting season on June 14. Visit rmna.org for more information.

41. Take the easy hike to the

49. Travel the entire park

40. Keep an eye out for

west side’s most scenic waterfall, Adams Falls.

42. Switchback up the steep

hike to Timber Lake.

43. Walk across the Kawuneeche Valley to visit the Holzwarth Historic Site and learn about the history of the old dude ranch.

44. Get a sense of the Park’s

many tree species on the Green Mountain Loop, which passes through forests of spruce, aspen, subalpine fir and lodgepole pine.

45

WATCH A HIGH-ELEVATION METEOR SHOWER AUG. 10-13, WHEN THE PERSEIDS SHOWER BRINGS 50 TO 100 METEORS PER HOUR.

SUMMER 2014

by bus with a Rocky Mountain Nature Association naturalist “safari” Tuesdays in June, July and August. Visit rmna.org for more information.

50. Take a wildlife

photography course in the Park with Rocky Mountain Nature Association in June or Bighorn rams play on the tundra in Rocky Mountain National Park.

September. Visit rmna.org for more information.

51. Drive to the Gore Range Overlook on Trail Ridge Road and watch the sunset.

52. Join the Colorado Headwaters Chapter of Trout Unlimited for a family flyfishing event at the Trail River Ranch site on July 11.

53. Visit the park from afar by

visiting the “Photos and Multimedia” page on the Park’s website.

55

PROPOSE TO YOUR SWEETHEART ATOP AN ALPINE PEAK.

56. Look for a furry marmot at the summit of Trail Ridge Road.

58. Ask a NPS ranger what

they like best about the Park.

59. Listen for an elk’s bugle in the fall. Many bugling elk can be spotted in the Kawuneeche Valley.

60. Stand atop Thunder

Pass for a spectacular view of the Never Summer Range.

61. Grab a selfie next to the

snow piles right after Trail Ridge Road opens.

62. Dip your toes into the

headwaters of the Colorado River, which begins in the Park and ends in the Pacific Ocean in Mexico.

63. Pitch your tent at Timber Creek, the only campground on the Park’s west side.

57.

WATCH FOR BIGHORN SHEEP, ONE OF THE PARK’S MOST POPULAR RESIDENTS AND THE COLORADO STATE ANIMAL

64. Experience the Park with

your taste buds by visiting the Trapper’s Wild Game Culinary Affair, Sept. 26-27 at Grand Lake’s Town Square. The event will feature a range of dishes from the last 100 years that have featured local plants, meat and fish found in the Park and surrounding area.

65

Indulge in a sweet treat and kick-off the centennial celebrations during the ice cream social at the Holzwarth Historic Site on Sept. 4.

66. Join the Colorado

Mountain Club in conquering 100 of the Park’s peaks on guideled tours.

67. Celebrate two birthdays

at once – the Park’s centennial and the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act – by hiking through some of the Park’s 250,000 acres of wilderness.

68. Pack a blanket and

snuggle with your sweetie under the stars.

Mountain National Park: The First 100 Years.”

71

Give Halloween a Rocky Mountain National Park twist during Grand Lake’s “Wilderness, Wildlife and Wonder Halloween,” featuring a children’s costume contest.

Prizes will be given to spooks with the best Park-themed costume.

72. Enjoy a holiday tribute

to the wilderness, wildlife and wonder of the Rocky Mountains during “Home for the Holidays: The Wonder of Christmas in the Rockies” at Grand Lake’s Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater on Dec. 20 and 21.

73. Ring in the New Year

and the Park’s birthday in style with fireworks at Grand Lake on Dec. 31.

74. Take a 100-mile hike through the Park in honor of its Centennial. Contact the Colorado Mountain Club for guided trips, starting in September 2014.

69. Hear local Grand County 75. Keep the kiddos musician Peggy Mann share songs written about the Park during Grand Lake’s Constitution Week on Sept. 20.

70. Listen to a natural history of the Park during the Centennial Speakers Series at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center. On Sept. 26, writer Mary Taylor Young will discuss her book, “Rocky

entertained with a 100th Anniversary Coloring Map, which also helps teach youngsters about the history of the Park’s west side. Maps, including a crayon pack, are available at the Grand Lake Chamber and Visitor Center.

76. Learn about the history of the Park’s western gateway through a walking tour, offered by the Grand Lake Chamber and Visitor Center.

77. Earn a commemorative 100th Anniversary wood coin on a GPS treasure hunt with Grand Lake’s Geo-cache Adventure, with geo-cache sites located throughout town.

78. Experience the Park’s quieter side by visiting it in the winter.

79. Switch off your phone,

pack up your tablet and leave your car behind to experience nature completely disconnected.

80

ENJOY COFFEE WITH A VIEW AT THE TRAIL RIDGE COFFEE BAR NEXT TO THE ALPINE VISITOR CENTER.

81. Learn about the Park’s

rock history with a ranger-led High Country Geology class, meeting at the Alpine Visitor Center in the summers.

82. Learn about alpine life from the Park’s many highaltitude critters with a rangerled High Country Trails class, starting from the Alpine Visitor Center in the summers.

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89.

WILDLIFE-WATCH FOR BABY ANIMALS IN MAY AND JUNE. BE SURE TO GIVE MOMS AND THEIR YOUNG PLENTY OF SPACE. A herd of elk crosses Trail Ridge Road in the Harbison Meadow in Rocky Mountain National Park.

90. Purchase an “America

the Beautiful Pass” and enjoy Rocky and all other national parks for the year.

BOOK A FLIGHT AND TRAVEL TO ROCKY’S SISTER PARKS. THE TATRA NATIONAL PARKS IN SLOVAKIA AND POLAND SHARE SIMILAR MOUNTAIN ECOSYSTEMS AND FACE COMMON ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES. THEY’VE BEEN CONSIDERED ROCKY’S SISTERS SINCE 2007.

91

92. Observe the skins, bones, teeth and antlers of the Park’s many animal residents through “Skins and Things.” The ranger-lead program is hosted throughout the summer and fall at Kawuneeche Visitor Center.

83 20

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84. Watch short videos about

how Park staff has grappled with ecological challenges like the mountain pine beetle and wildlife management at Kawunechee Visitor Center.

85. Plunge deep into Park territory by exploring Little Yellowstone Canyon.

86. Support the Park’s visitor centers and programs by making a donation to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, a

SUMMER 2014

cooperating agency working to benefit and support the Park.

87. Go camping with

Fido — but remember, pets are only allowed in designated campgrounds, picnic areas and along roads. Dogs must be on leash at all times.

88

Visit the Park in spring and see if you can’t experience sunshine, rain and snow – all on the same day.

94. Find your inner artist by

practicing plein air water color, oil painting or photography in the Park, drawing inspiration from its scenic mountain beauty.

95. Write down your memories of the Park for posterity to enjoy another century from now.

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

HELP YOUR LITTLE ONES LEARN ABOUT PARK INSECTS THROUGH THE “COME BUG A RANGER” PROGRAM AT THE HOLZWARTH HISTORIC SITE EACH WEDNESDAY THROUGH THE SUMMER.

93. Pick up some Park and high Rockies memorabilia at the Park’s west gateway, Grand Lake, which has over 60 shops, restaurants and galleries.

96. Take a break from work and watch live webcam footage, transporting yourself away from the grind into mountain paradise.

97. Enjoy a campfire Parkstyle. Either build one of your own at a designated campground, or join a ranger, toasting marshmallows and telling stories, during evening programs held in the summer and fall.

98

SKIP STONES ON ONE OF THE PARK’S MANY MOUNTAIN LAKES.

99. Submit your own Rocky Mountain National Park memories as part of the centennial celebration at rmnp100.com.

100. ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ (create your own adventure)

TOP: A mule deer eyes to visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park.

ABOVE: Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park.

LEFT: Rocky Mountain National Park visitors explore the tundra and views at Forest Canyon Overlook.

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WILD GRAND COUNTY WILDERNESS GROUP TURNS 20

More than 78,000 acres of wild lands is a lot to manage, but luckily the U.S. Forest Service Sulphur Ranger District has a local wilderness champion.

The Grand County Wilderness Group is celebrating its own birthday milestone along with the Wilderness Act. Two decades ago, residents and second homeowners organized to help the National Park Service manage and protect its wild lands. To date, they’ve grown to 120 members. Last year, they clocked 2,500 hours of volunteer time repairing trails, helping with cabin hosting, maintaining registration boxes and guiding visitors.

For more information and to become a member, visit www.gcwg.org

Wilderness Act celebrates 50 years Grand County includes five designated wilderness areas || by Leia Larsen "To those devoid of imagination, a blank place on the map is a useless waste; to others, the most valuable part.” – Aldo Leopold

O

n Sept. 3, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a milestone piece of legislation – the Wilderness Act. With that act, “Wilderness,” as op-

posed to wilderness, became lands forever protected from mining, logging or development. The American people set aside these wild lands so they can stay immaculate and remain refuges for solitude. By writing these protections into law, Wilderness also stays protected for future generations.

“It provides an opportunity to have that real primitive experience, you can go out with your horse, have a camping experience, go hunting or hiking,” said Reid Armstrong with the U.S. Forest Service, “away from the noise of civilization.”

Wilderness has come to define Grand County. It has four different wilderness areas — Indian Peaks, Vasquez Peak, Never Summer and Byers Peak

It provides an opportunity to have that real primitive experience, you can go out with your horse, have a camping experience, go hunting or hiking, away from the noise of civilization.”

— Reid Armstrong, U.S. Forest Service 22

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— totally 78,800. Around 94,000 acres of wilderness in Rocky Mountain National Park also lie in the county.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act, the U.S. Forest Service Sulphur Ranger District in Grand County will be hosting numerous events throughout the summer. From organized wilderness hikes, to children’s’ education wilderness walks to picnics to volunteer opportunities, there’s an opportunity for everyone to participate and continue to forge bonds with all things Grand and all things wild. For a list of planned events, visit gcwg. org. For more information, contact the Sulphur Ranger District at 970-887-4100 or stop by their office at 9 Ten Mile Drive in Granby.

Opening Summer 2014

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78786 US Hwy 40 • Winter Pa www.volariosw

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CURIOUS

The mining boom that turned bust Mining towns sprouted in what is now Rocky Mountain National park

by Tim Nicklas GRAND COUNTY HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

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n 1879, Grand County saw the beginning of its one and only mining boom.

At the time, Colorado was caught up in the frenzy of a silver rush, caused by the discovery of rich ore at Leadville. As a result of the silver boom at Leadville, prospectors scoured the peaks and valleys of the state in search of the next great strike.

The mining boom in Grand County centered on the Rabbit Ears Range, known today as the Never Summer Range. The young town of Grand Lake greatly benefitted as the supply center of the mining district. As was typical of other Colorado mining booms, several towns with great ambition sprang up in the vicinity. Within the current boundary of Rocky Mountain National Park were Gaskill, Lulu City, and Dutchtown. The largest town within the Rabbit Ears Mining District was Gaskill, located on the western slope of the Never Summer Range in North Park. At the time of the mining boom, North Park was a part of Grand County.

Lulu City was perhaps the first of the towns to be established in the Rabbit Ears

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Mining District, in 1879.

Located on the headwaters of the Colorado River, the town was probably named for the daughter of Benjamin Burnett, one of the founders of the settlement.

By 1881, Lulu City was flourishing. The town was awarded a post office in 1880 and soon had around a dozen businesses, including several saloons, a hotel, a butcher shop, barber shop, two sawmills, a grocery, hardware store, and real estate agency. The town even had a small red-light district that consisted of two cabins.

A satellite town of Lulu City was Dutchtown. The story of Dutchtown’s origin is a curious one and the only information about the settlement came from a letter written in 1940,

by Cloyd Redburn of Grand Lake. According to Redburn, Lulu City was a segregated town of Dutch (Germans), Irish, and Swedes. In speaking of the Germans, who he called Dutchmen, Redburn wrote “One day they went to Grand Lake and returned in the night sometime pretty well under the influence of liquor and proceeded to eliminate some of the other races of Lulu City.” Apparently, the Germans wrecked

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part of the town and injured a few of its citizens.

As a result town founder, Benjamin Burnett decreed “that no more Dutchmen be allowed to build or live within the limits of Lulu City.” As the story goes, the Germans moved two miles and 1,000 feet above town and started Dutchtown.

Gaskill was founded in 1880 at the mouth of Bowen Gulch. The town boasted a post office within a year, as well as many of same amenities of Lulu City, including a drug store. Gaskill was located by the Toponis, Ruby, and Wolverine mines, which were perhaps the most productive of all the Rabbit Ears mines. The settlement was named for Lewis

HISTORY AT ITS BEST The Grand County Historical Association, founded in 1974, operates museum sites in Fraser, Hot Sulphur Springs and Kremmling, being the Cozens Ranch Museum, the Pioneer Village Museum and Heritage Park, respectively.

For information, call 970-725-3939, or visit grandcountymuseum.com

DeWitt Clinton Gaskill, foreman of the Wolverine Mine. L.D.C. Gaskill was a well-respected citizen in Grand County and formerly operated the toll gate on the Summit of Berthoud Pass.

Grand Lake greatly benefitted from the population growth that occurred from the mining excitement. Hot Sulphur Springs had traditionally been the population and economic center of Grand County for many years. As the mining boom progressed, the center of activity shifted to Grand Lake. Consequently, the county seat transferred from Hot Sulphur to Grand Lake in 1882. This, among other circumstances, would have dire consequences. The county seat dispute would

be a part of a long-standing political feud in Grand County that culminated in the Grand Lake Massacre on July 4, 1883. On that fateful day, Grand County Commissioner John Mills gathered Sheriff Charlie Royer and Undersheriff Bill Redman and ambushed Commissioner Ed Webber, Commissioner Barney Day, and County Clerk Thomas Dean. A gunfight ensued and as the smoke settled, all three Grand County Commissioners lay dead.

Thomas Dean survived with a gunshot to the face, but succumbed to his wound a few days later. Redman was spotted leaving the scene wounded. No one suspected Royer’s involvement in the massacre. Nonetheless,

a few days after the event, guilt-ridden, he rented a hotel room in Georgetown and committed suicide. Redman was able to escape from Grand County. Several weeks later, a body was found riddled with bullets in Utah. Nearby was Redman’s saddle and scrawled in the sand was Redman’s name. It was presumed that this was indeed Bill Redman, though no one positively identified the body.

The Grand Lake Massacre can be viewed as a foreshadowing of the quick death of the mining boom.

The mines never produced a high grade of ore. The most productive year for Grand County mining bore just more than $10,000.

Furthermore, there was not adequate transportation to justify mining such lowgrade ore. Not long after the tragic event of Grand Lake, the mines shuttered and the population fled the defunct towns of Lulu City, Dutchtown, Gaskill, and Teller City. From a high peak of 8,673 people in 1884, Grand County’s population declined rapidly to just 1,223 in 1885. Before long, the towns themselves would disappear. Many of the structures would be moved to elsewhere or simply decayed under the harsh winter snows. What was left of Lulu City was removed by the CCC in the 1930s. Today, nothing remains of Lulu City and only a few rotting logs are all that is left in Gaskill. Grand Lake declined, as well, and by 1888, the county seat was returned to Hot Sulphur Springs.

Photos courtesy of the Grand County Historical Association

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ORIGINAL

Seek a conversation starter in Grand galleries One-of-a-kind finds to add character to your day || by Cindy Kleh

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rt lovers can find unique pieces in all corners of Grand County. Here are some interesting works to get you started on your treasure hunt.

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Jess Cieply is a Penn State graduate with a degree in ceramics who works at the YMCA/ Snow Mountain Ranch craft shop during the winter months. She creates the design on both sides of this plate and bowl by starting with a terra cotta base and adding a white clay layer onto which she carves her designs. Cieply’s pottery can be found at Winter Park Framerwerx, a custom picture-framing shop that features unique, quirky paintings, sculpture and jewelry — most of which are made from recycled materials.

78878 Hwy 40, Winter Park, wpframewerx.com, 970-726-5656

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Nancy Larner uses scraps of vintage metal to create sculptures that make you smile. Based in Evergreen, Colorado, Larner has always collected bits and pieces of metal since she was a child, and she creates “Recontrivances”— sculptures made from rusty findings.

“Doin’ Lunch” is a scene of two ladies at a table drinking wine made from a 1930s-era lunchbox adorned with a spice grater, silverware, hooks, Jello mold, drill bits, steel wool and a stove knob. This and other Larner pieces can be found at Winter Park Framewerx.

78878 Hwy 40, Winter Park, wpframewerx.com, 970-726-5656

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The necklace and napkin holder are created by James and Doris Del Coriz — Native American turquoise and stone bead makers from Santo Domingo Pueblo in New Mexico. Each bead is handcrafted from Kingman and Sleeping Beauty Turquoise and spiny oyster seashells. The Del Coriz husband-and-wife team learned the art of jewelry making from their parents and have passed it on to their own children. They will be in Grand Lake at Bob Scott’s Indian Jewelry and Gifts on July 18-20 to demonstrate their talents. Scott is an expert in Native American art, jewelry and artifacts. On Aug. 2, his shop will have an all-day silver polishing and restoration seminar in the store, with a free appraisal offered on one Indian jewelry or antique.

912 Grand Avenue, Grand Lake, bobscottindianjewelry.com, 970-531-6645

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Formerly a Forest Ranger from the Adirondacks of Upstate New York, Kremmling resident, Jim White of Mountain Leather Craft, found himself drawn to the Wild West of the Rockies.

Exploring dyeing and coloring techniques and perfecting his hand stamping and carving skills has deepened his satisfaction in his leatherwork. He also crafts custom-made pieces such as sidearm holsters, belts and purses that can be found at the Gore Range Artisan’s Group in Kremmling – a new art co-op gallery that used to be a vintage motel, but is now being renovated into an artist community.

110 West Park Avenue (Highway 40), Kremmling, gorerangeartisans.com, 970-531-0065

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The subjects of Elizabeth Kurtak’s watercolor paintings are often local wildlife that visit her garden in the different seasons of the year.

These chickadees are year-round residents. Kurtak Gallery is located in the Fraser Mercantile Building — a historic structure that she and her husband Andrew Peterson (an ordained minister) have transformed into a beautiful outdoor garden venue for weddings.

201 Eisenhower Drive, Fraser, elizabethkurtak.com, 970-531-0230

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Also members of the Gore Range Artisan’s Group are Bill and Judy Schempp of Naya Studio, who like to think “green.” This metal sphere is 3-D, and meant to be hung. It was cut from recycled steel pipe, welded together piece by piece, then enhanced with a brass braising. Nothing goes to waste! gorerangeartisans.com, 970-531-0065

908 Nob Hill Road, Evergreen, CO Just off I-70 at Evergreen Parkway Rusticpoint.com | 303-225-4660 s k y h i da i ly n e ws .co m

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PAMPERED

Say 'Ahhh' to Spa Best packages for a post-vacation, relaxation glow

by Cindy Kleh

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here’s something about a real vacation that just demands a spa day. It’s not until you are completely removed from everyday life and allow yourself to relax that you notice that tightness between the shoulder blades or that soreness in the neck and lower back from long hours sitting in front of a computer or driving a car.

For some time now, your body has needed some pampering. Finally, you have the time to do it.

DAY SPA For many, a spa day includes a massage, but for those who feel uncomfortable about getting one, it can seem more like an ordeal than a pleasant experience. According to Amy Weeks, owner of Bella Vita Mountain Day Spa in Winter Park and a certified massage therapist, esthetician and nail technician, establishing a relationship with your massage therapist is the first step.

“We do a very thorough client intake that helps the therapist know if there are any contraindications to massage — past injuries and surgeries, or any allergies.” This gives the therapist and client information to discuss beforehand, as well as problem areas to focus on during the massage.

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Bella Vita also offers a vast array of spa services, including manicures and pedicures, facials, herbal body wraps, and Honey Glow Foot and Hand Scrubs. There are many spa packages described on their website (bellavitagc. com) such as a side-byside couple’s aromatherapy Healing Hot Stone massage after a cocoa powder, ginger and cinnamon sea salt foot soak; maternity massage with a balancing facial; aromatic warm oil scalp massage; waxing; manicures and pedicures; even a gentlemen’s facial.

You can invent your own custom spa day or even your own special hour by combining any of services that Bella Vita offers, and that’s a long list from which to choose. The spa is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. by appointment.

RESORT SPA The drive out to Devil’s Thumb Ranch & Spa is already reminding you that you are escaping the everyday grind. Rated 2014 Top Ten Green Spa

by Organic Spa Magazine, Ranch Creek Spa is a luxurious experience of elegant serenity, with 14 treatment rooms, a couples’ suite, a yoga studio, men’s and women’s locker rooms (each with a steam room), and a spa gift shop

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that carries the same essential oils, bath salts and skin care lines that are used in their spa treatments.

If you feel the need for pampering and romance, the Spa Bliss package includes two nights lodging and two 50-minute spa treatments of your choice. This leaves you plenty of time to take a hike, attend a yoga class and unwind in the hot tub before your spa experience, with an extra day just to maintain that blissful state.

“We have soaking tubs that will accommodate a couple,” says Charity Baxter, executive director of Spa & Recreation for the resort. “One of our great couple’s packages, Elemental Reconnection, includes a couples soak, a couple’s 80-minute massage, followed by wine and cheese.”

If you have just arrived in the mountains, try the Altitude Adjustment Massage — a custom blend of essential oils and specific acupressure points that ease respiration, headaches

and other altitude-related ills. Soothe sun- and wind-burned faces with a probiotic cucumber and yogurt facial or the Climate Control Face Hydration. Add microdermabrasion to erase fine lines and wrinkles.

“This high-altitude environment is harsh on the skin,” explains Baxter.

“Every person’s skin conditions are different and can change weekly, depending on altitude, weather, hormones and stress. Our skin care lines — Eminence

Bella Vita Mountain Day Spa in Winter Park.

PHOTO BY BYRON HETZLER

Zoya nail products — free of toluene, formaldehyde, camphor and phthalate.

“We also have an outdoor, co-ed hot tub for spa guests only,” Baxter adds. “The hot tub patio area has some of the best views on property. In addition, guests can order food and beverage at the spa. We often host spa parties that include treatments, drinks and food.”

Ranch Creek Spa is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Yoga classes are held at 4:30 on Thursdays and 9:00 and 4:30 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, or private classes can be scheduled.

Call 970-726-1054 to book an appointment.

Organics and Lunaria — are customized to each guest, and are available to purchase.”

The Road To Wellness package begins with a soak in a copper tub with your choice of therapeutic mineral salts — Detox, Deep Rest, Muscle Soother or Stress Release — followed by a full-body massage that corresponds with the bath-salt remedy. Ranch Creek Spa also offers customized massage and spa services to cowboys and cowpokes (rec-

ommended for children 14 and under with a parent or guardian present).

Love the look of manicures and pedicures, but hate the fumes? Ranch Creek uses all-natural s k y h i da i ly n e ws .co m

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WINED & DINED

Grown and raised in Grand Local food products inspire healthy, fresh menus

by Anna Winkel

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efore guests even step foot in the Ranch House Restaurant at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, they preview the fresh ingredients that will soon appear on their plates.

Gardens that flank the entrance to the rustic yet elegant restaurant in Tabernash are planted with herbs and vegetables harvested daily by Executive Chef Evan Treadwell for his award-winning menus.

What we have is a gift, and we love what we do. The chefs sense that. The chefs that really, really support us sense our gift and our love for farming.” — Carol Morales, Morales Farms Inc., Granby Think of those gardens as visual appetizers.

“When you’re picking it right out of the ground, the flavor is better. It tends to have a fresher and more vibrant flavor profile,” said Treadwell.

Speaking of fresh, don’t get too attached to the cows grazing in the nearby meadow if you plan on enjoying a steak while there.

Treadwell’s mission to create a more sustainable dining experience began by procuring Wagyu cattle to graze on some of the 32

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ranch’s 6,000 acres. Literally translating to “Japanese cow,” Wagyu beef is naturally marbled with healthier monounsaturated fats.

In Japan, the cattle are massaged and drink sake or beer, but Devil’s Thumb doesn’t go quite that far.

“We treat the cattle as humanely as possible. We let our cattle roam. The overall philosophy Chef Evan has is 'take great care with the food,'” said Chris Bettey, marketing manager for Devil’s Thumb Ranch.

The beef may have

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originated from a Japanese tradition, but the gardens at Devil’s Thumb are decidedly local. Hearty plants that thrive in mountain soil and cold nighttime temperatures grow alongside native edible plants like wild strawberries and Solomon plume, which has shoots similar in flavor to asparagus.

Locavores won’t want to miss the salad of local greens with native mountain rose, raspberry and twisted stalk.

GROWING LOCAL AS A WAY OF LIFE Joe and Carol Morales are experts on farming at high altitudes. Morales Farms in Granby reached its 70-year milestone last fall. It’s one of the longest-standing businesses in Grand County.

“We don’t make it complicated. We keep it simple. We follow our instincts… What we have

is a gift, and we love what we do. The chefs sense that. The chefs that really, really support us sense our gift and our love for farming,” Carol said.

Morales Farms has been putting fresh, locally grown produce on the tables of Grand County restaurants since 1994.

Their Denver distributor at that time didn’t have a market for their asparagus because the mountain variety is thinner than what was popular. So

Carol started selling it to local restaurants instead.

Twenty years later, some area restaurants feature Morales Farm’s most wellknown produce, such as spinach and beets. Others work extensively with them to create uniquely Grand County dishes.

“A small handful of restaurants — whatever we grow, they will find a way to incorporate it into their menu. It’s an inconvenience to these chefs.

They are willing to put up with the inconvenience because they care about their customers. They know it makes a difference on the plate,” Carol said.

RESTAURANTS TO STOREFRONTS The demand for healthy, locally grown food has

FROM LEFT: Morales Farms employees Martin and Roberto harvest green leaf lettuce at the farm outside of Granby where a variety of fresh produce are grown; Carol Morales with lettuce grown at Morales Farms in Granby; A yearling name Sue starts Wagyu beef on-site at Devil’s Thumb Ranch.

The resort hopes to have its own herd eventually; Devil's Thumb Ranch Chef Evan Treadwell shows off two of the Wagyu beef dishes, meatloaf sliders and a cheeseburger, served at the resort.

led one Granby business to pair bikes with bison. When V.J. and Sue Valente, the owners of Full Circle Cyclery, learned that Bear Mountain Bison near Kremmling was looking for a place to sell cuts of sustainably-raised buffalo, the Valentes volunteered their shop. They’ve attracted a whole new clientele.

“We get an eclectic group in here who aren’t cyclists. RVers and people on boat trips stop.

They’ve emptied their coolers so they can fill them with Bison before they head back,” said V.J. V.J. feels confident selling a product that he believes in and eats himself.

“I really can’t do beef because I had high cholesterol, and buffalo is lower in cholesterol than chicken.

All our meat is grass fed and grass finished from beginning to end…

I like supporting them,” he said.

Karen Hammer, owner of the Moose Café in Kremmling, feels strongly that restaurants that buy locally keep business — and jobs —in Grand County. She buys all the supplies for her restaurant from stores in Kremmling.

“That keeps jobs in the county,” she said. “Every job counts up here.”

Signature

REGIONAL DISHES DEVIL’S THUMB RANCH, TABERNASH: Kinnikinnik smoked trout with sorrel, pancetta and wild onions

TABERNASH TAVERN, TABERNASH: Beet Salad made with Morales Farms beet, arugula, and fresh goat cheese

MOOSE CAFÉ, KREMMLING:

Hamburgers made with fresh ground beef (never frozen)

MIRASOL SOUTHWESTERN CANTINA, WINTER PARK: Chili Pepper Spiced Elk Tacos with caramelized onions, peppers, and avocado

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

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WINED & DINED

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rom the Front Range to the Western Slope, Colorado is a beer tourist’s paradise.

If you’re traveling to the Rockies this summer, there are a number of ways to acquaint yourself with Colorado’s amber obsession.

Options run the gamut from brewery tours to beer festivals, but interested in quenching your thirst with your own customized version?

Granby’s home-brew outfitter Kirk Main has been brewing beer for longer than 20 years and offers his expertise to brewers of all experiences.

Main’s business Everybody’s Brewin’ It, based in the bottom floor of the former Granby Mart, offers supplies, on-site brewing and classes.

Malt, hops and brewing expertise Become a skilled brew master in your own home || by Hank Shell “I recommend for most people to take a class, and if you’re not going to take a class at least get a good book,” said Kirk Main of Everybody’s Brewin’ it, Granby. “It will save you a lot of headaches, and you’ll learn some shortcuts.”

Main’s classes start, like any gastronomic endeavor, with a recipe. Cue your inner beer connoisseur.

Main has a plethora of recipes on hand, from heirloom concoctions to clones of the world’s most popular beers.

But with more than 20 styles of beer and the 34

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innumerable variations in between, it all depends on your taste.

“I lean toward pale ales, but I try to mix it up,” he said. “I like a good wheat beer or a good Belgian beer.”

Once you’ve selected a blueprint for your beer, Main will set you up with the materials. For a cheaper and quicker option, choose a malt-extract brew.

You’ll bypass the “mashing” and “sparging” processes, cutting your brewing time by one to two hours, and you’ll save on propane, which is

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OUT ON THE TOWN Don’t have the time to make your own?

For fine craft beers in Grand, visit the Moffat Station Brewery, The Cheeky Monk, the Library Brewery, or try Grand Lake Brewery beer, sold in bars and in the liquor store.

included in the site fee.

If you choose the more traditional route of allgrain brewing, head to the back of the shop where Main will help you process your malt in his mill.

Then it’s time to brew.

BREWING YOUR BEER “Mostly it’s procedure, not ingredients, that make a good beer,” Main said.

He’s referring to sanitization and temperature, which you’ll address in the next stage of brewing.

While you boil your freshly milled malt, you’ll want to maintain a steady tempera-

LEFT: Kirk Main of Everybody's Brewin' It, right, helps Hank Shell check the progress of his beer.

dining

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

EVERYBODY’S BREWIN’ IT

For a schedule of class times, to arrange a class with Main or to tour his brewing repertoire, stop by Everybody’s Brewin’ It at 62 E. Agate Ave. in Granby or visit everybodysbrewinit.com. For those who don’t like beer or just want to try something new, Main also offers classes on wine-making and cheese-making.

H O T S P OTS Winter Park’s Premier Steak & Seafood Restaurant serving up its finest food.

OPEN AT 4:00pm!

ALL YOU CAN EAT

THURSDAY NIGHT

Prime Rib $22

SUNDAY

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970-363-7047 || WWW.STRIPANDTAIL.BIZ

ture to ensure that the malt’s starches are converted to sugars. If the temperature’s too high, the grain husks can release tannins, making your beer too bitter.

Though it sounds like an intensive process, don’t fear. Main will be there to help.

Once your mash is finished, you’ll sparge it, adding water

while draining the sweet, syrupy liquid, called “wort,” into another container.

Here you’ll boil the wort once more, then “pitch” your yeast, which eagerly converts the sugars into alcohol.

From there, all that’s left is fermentation and bottling. When bottling, you’ll add a bit of “priming” sugar to feed the now-famished yeast, which carbonates your new brew.

Wait a while for your young beer to mature, then ice it down for your summer fishing trip on Grand Lake or save it for the end of a long day of rafting the Colorado River. Or, simply indulge in your new accomplishment, and let your friends and family enjoy the fruits of your labor.

It’s a simple pleasure.

“I just like to be able to say, ‘I made that beer you’re drinking,’” Main said.

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN WINTER PARK ON THE NORTHERN END AT 78259 US HWY. 40 The bar is located under our restaurant featuring a “Speak Easy” atmosphere hosted by Jeremy Farmer.

Karaoke on Monday, open mic on Wednesdays

SLY FOX RESTAURANT

AT GRAND LAKE GOLF COURSE COME TRY OUR FAMOUS TRAIL RIDGE BURRITO

fri-sun serving breakfast & lunch 8-3 mon-thurs limited menu

CALL FOR TAKE OUT 970.627.3922

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ENTERTAINED

Not your average movie night Gather in the love of cinema and the outdoors || by Tonya Bina

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rive-in movies may conjure up nostalgia, but there are still opportunities to share that outdoor movie experience with others —even without the ’57 Chevy. Grab your blanket, some delicious picnic snacks, and attend an outdoor movie on a pleasant summer’s eve. Here’s a list of venues.

WINTER PARK RESORT, WINTER PARK

Every Friday from June 20 – Aug. 22. The Village at Winter Park presents Family Movie Night, showing a great selection of family and kid-friendly movies, held outdoors on the lawn next to the Private Lesson.

A limited number of chairs are provided. All movies will begin just after sunset.

Times may vary week-toweek. For more details, contact Guest Services at 303.316.1564.

BOATER’S CHOICE MARINA, GRAND LAKE

Every Friday night at 7:30 p.m., from July 4 - Aug. 8. Experience moviewatching on the wooden dock of Boater’s Choice Marina, right on Grand Lake. Call 970-627-9273 for details.

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GRANBY REC. DEPT., GRANBY Movie night on June 19, in Polhamus Park of Granby’s town square.

Contact the Granby Recreation Department at 970-887-3961 to find out what’s showing.

PREFER INDOORS?

The Foundry Cinema and Bowl in Fraser offers showings nightly. Grand County’s only movie theater offers two HD cinemas, with oversize stadium seating, stow-away tables and cupholders for your food and drinks (even those from the bar). For more information, go to foundry-wp.com/ movies/

LEFT: The dock at Boater's Choice Marina is transformed into a movie theater on Friday evenings during the summer in Grand Lake.

BELOW: The Granby Recreation Department offers outdoor movies in Polhamus Park during the summer.

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

Families enjoy watching a movie outdoors at the base of Winter Park Resort.

BLUE STAR CONNECTION This is a what the Blue Star Connection donation to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana looked like. BSC has been able to make a donation like this to 34 of the nation’s Children’s Hospitals. Music Therapy has turned the corner in the treatment of childhood illnesses. When a child shows a desire to continue playing music after being released, Blue Star Connection gives them a personal instrument. This has happened almost 500 times in the past nine years. You can make a difference in a child’s recovery by donating instruments and cash to our effort. Visit www.bluestarconnection.org to learn how. All donations are tax deductible.

Giving The Gift of Music Since 2005 www.bluestarconnection.org

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ENTERTAINED

Cowboy-up for summer rodeo fun Rodeo grounds are in east, central and west Grand County || by Cindy Kleh

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ne way to get a taste of the real West is to see a live rodeo with genuine cowboys and cowgirls competing head-tohead for money and titles. It’s not easy to find high-caliber, live rodeo action, but Grand County is home to three separate rodeo grounds.

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FLYING HEELS RODEO ARENA The rodeo season kicks off on the weekend of June 20-21 at the Flying Heels Rodeo Grounds in Granby with a fundraiser for Pregnancy Resource Connection during the Motorcycle Barrel Race. Two trailers will be set up to represent the cowboys on horses vs. the motorcyclists to see who is faster in barrel racing and who can bring in most donations. Bring

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a pack of diapers to the rodeo and get in half price.

The 4th of July Celebration includes fireworks on the 5th, and the rodeo action all weekend. Don’t miss the Westernaires – a top team of senior high school riders that pull off amazing feats of horsemanship and Western riding. You can also catch them in the Fourth of July parade in Granby.

The Junior Rodeo and the Children's Buckaroo

Rodeo are held at 3 p.m. on Saturday July 5. Events include Mutton Busting and Goat Tying events for little kids. The older ones show off barrel racing, roping and bronc-busting skills. Main Performance begins at 7 p.m. with the crowd favorites: Bronc and Bull Riding.

“Bull riding is the most dangerous event,” explains rodeo volunteer Pam Minear. “A horse will run off after it bucks a rider

There is nothing like the action of our live rodeo to bring out the heart of the Western culture of Grand County.” — Cindy Greiner, Winter Park Horseman’s Association

ABOVE: Kelly Allen prepares to make her pole bending run during the junior rodeo at the Middle Park Fair in Kremmling.

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

RIGHT: Cody Butler hangs on during his bareback bronc ride at the High Country Stampede Rodeo in Fraser.

but a bull might charge!”

Cost for an afternoon and evening of entertainment: $10 for adults and $4 for kids and seniors.

Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and military get in free.

For more information, call 970-887-2311.

HIGH COUNTRY STAMPEDE RODEO The High Country Stampede Rodeo has been based in Fraser for longer than 30 years, keeping alive a history of ranching and farming skills that were necessary just to survive back in the

pioneer days.

“It is a unique experience of fast-paced rough-stock events, horse riding events and our entertaining clown acts,” says Cindy Greiner, Treasurer of the Winter Park Horseman’s Association, which produces the High Country Stampede Rodeo Series.

“There is nothing like the action of our live rodeo to bring out the heart of the Western culture of Grand County.”

High Country Stampede holds rodeos on Saturday nights from July 5 to Aug. 16. The Junior Rodeo begins at 3 p.m. for wranglers 18 and younger, and is open to anyone who

signs up. The main event, featuring amateur and professional rodeo stars, begins at 7 p.m., and will keep you glued to your seat watching cowboys and cowgirls buck broncos, ride bulls, wrestle steers and compete in pole bending, barrel racing and various roping events.

Don’t miss the Calf Scramble for kids 6 to 10 years-old, where calves with a bandana tied to their tail are let loose in the arena. The kids who untie one win. The Mutton Bustin’ event has a 20-child limit, so sign up early. To be kind to the sheep, there is a 50-pound limit for the kids. Everyone wears a helmet and receives a ribbon.

The show goes on, rain or shine. The grandstands are covered, but the action in the arena can get pretty muddy. A Chuckwagon BBQ is served from 4-9 p.m. Adult tickets are $10; kids and seniors $8; 5 and under free. Group rates are available: 970-449-9040.

>>>>>>

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MIDDLE PARK FAIR AND RODEO The Middle Park Fair and Rodeo in Kremmling is a two-week event that opens with livestock and dog show on Aug. 2, and culminates in rodeos, livestock competitions, cowboy singers and exhibits Aug. 8-11.

Celebrating its 98th year, this is a true country cowboy experience — the real deal, according to Chris Murphy, secretary of the rodeo’s board. “It’s a chance to see national-level rodeo competitors, livestock grand champions and the finest products of local farmers and crafts people.”

The Junior Rodeo starts out the action on Aug. 8th with free admission. The

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night includes goat-tail untying and mutton bustin' for the littlest buckeroos, and goat-tying, barrel racing, pole bending, roping, and rough stock events for the older kids.

“There is a dress code for all competitors,” says Meghan Rivera, district director for the National Barrel Horse Association.

“Boots, jeans, cowboy hat and a long-sleeve button down Western shirt – buttoned up. If a rider loses a hat during the competition, it’s a five-second penalty.”

Friday night features the Ranch Horse Versatility competition as well as the Grand and Reserve Champions of Showmanship competing in the Round Robin. Saturday is the

SUMMER 2014

Ranch Hands Rodeo and the 4-H Livestock Sale.

Sunday features a barbecue — included in the $10 entry fee and a Colorado Pro Rodeo Association rodeo with bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and bull riding, to name a few.

BELOW: Taylor Miniat competes in the breakaway roping event at the Flying Heels Rodeo in Granby.

BOTTOM: Jesse Cornett gets thrown from his bull during the Flying Heels Rodeo in Granby.

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

IT’S NOT YOUR TYPICAL DAY. Our day pass gets you miles of family-friendly biking and hiking trails, mini golf, swimming, horseback riding, climbing, archery and much more!

CHECK IT OUT!

SnowMountainRanch.org 970-887-2152 PLUS...enjoy winter fun under the summer sun.

Our NEW summer tubing hill opens on July 15th!

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A Full Service Salon & Day Spa • Sanijet Spa Pedicures • Shellac & Classic & Spa Manicures • Gel & Acrylic Nails • Swedish & Deep Tissue Massage • Facials featuring Sanitas Skincare • Chemical Peels • Waxing • Hair Design for Men, Women & Children • Bridal & Large Parties • Makeup Application • Ear Piercing • Many lines of retail professional products & tools 78737 US 40 | Winter Park, CO 80482 (next to Ski Depot & Hideaway Park) Open Mon-Sat 10am to 6pm | Sunday hours vary

970-726-5200

| winterparksalon.com

All in a beautiful and relaxed setting overlooking Vasquez creek with views of Hideway Park and Winter Park Ski Area

FRIENDLY

Lapping up the high life

Pe t

Grand County is the perfect place for pets || by Anna Winkel UPCOMING PET-FRIENDLY EVENTS

PHOTOS BY BYRON HETZLER

H

arry, Bo, and Miss Kitty have their pink tongues lolling and tails wagging. They look ecstatic, especially considering they are about to go to work.

These sled dogs are part of a team of huskies about to pull passengers along a scenic trail with spectacular views of the Continental Divide.

But there are no sleds in sight. These rides are on wheels.

Jeff Martin, owner of Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park, added cart rides six years ago as a way to continue dog sled rides past the winter season.

His was the first kennel in Colorado to offer cart rides, in which the passengers ride in golf carts pulled by a team of dogs during the non-winter months.

“We started offering the cart rides because we kept missing the Thanksgiving weekend, and we have to run the dogs anyway to get them in shape. Before then, we would have the dogs pull a four-wheeler or car. Since we were doing all the work of hooking up a team and running, it just made sense to offer the experience to our customers as well,” Martin said.

Cart rides are interactive for the passengers. They steer and use the brakes, while sled rides are about sitting back to enjoy the wintery ride. The dogs

• June 28, 2014, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Ace Dog Days of Summer at Ace Country Hardware in Granby Hot dogs on sale to benefit Grand County Pet Pals • Aug. 30, 2014, 9 a.m.

— Doggie Drag 5k Fun Walk/Run at Grand Park in Fraser Leashed dogs welcome.

Race followed by silent auction and pet costume contest.

Participants in the annual Doggie Drag head out on the course at Grand Park in Fraser.

The event serves as a fundraiser for Grand County Pet Pals.

love to pull either way.

“The dogs don't really care too much what they are pulling or what the surface of the trail is like.

The main difference for the dogs is that there is no snow on ground to eat or roll in. Because of this, we have to stop for water breaks,” Martin said.

Martin’s huskies aren’t the only mountain dogs sweating for a living. Jeannine Jones of Kremmling breeds

People up here love their dogs, and we have all these amenities to give them a great life. People take their dogs hiking, biking and cross-country skiing, and give them lots of exercise.”

— Sarah Greenberg, co-owner of Happy Tails Inc., a dog-walking and pet-sitting service. s k y h i da i ly n e ws .co m

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shelters that are at capacity.

“As a society, I think we are learning more and more about the benefits and value of providing a loving and responsible home to shelter animals who, typically through no fault of their own, become homeless,” said Lisa Jones, president of Grand County Pet Pals.

The Rocky Mountains are great for pets for all the same reasons they are great for people: wide open spaces, pleasant temperatures, and tons to do.

“People up here love their dogs, and we have all these amenities to give them a great life. People take their dogs hiking, biking and cross-country skiing, and give them lots of exercise,” said Sarah Greenberg, co-owner of Happy Tails Inc., a dog-walking and pet-sitting service.

Once pets have found

TOP 10 THINGS ABOUT

GRAND COUNTY (ACCORDING TO DOGS) 1. Lots of great sniffing, digging, and dead things to chew 2.

Outdoor dog-friendly seating at restaurants such as Carver's, Randi's, Pancho & Lefty’s, The Crooked Creek, and Big Shooter’s.

3. Dog water bowls at many businesses 4. Dog-friendly shopping at Country Ace Hardware in Granby 5. Search and Rescue Dogs of Grand County 6. Hundreds of miles of trails 7. Hunting and fishing and wearing those cool orange vests 8. Rivers and ponds and lakes, oh my!

9. Taking pictures with Santa every holiday season

homes here, they won’t be without support. There are five veterinary clinics in the county to serve pets and their families.

“Grand County is a great place to have dogs, because we don't have many pests or diseases to worry about,” said Martin.

“And most people in the valley are dog people.”

That aptly describes Julie Moseley, owner of K9 Bliss Dog Swim Therapy in Granby. Moseley has a warm water pool to treat dogs that are healing from injuries or want to learn to swim. She can perform reiki and massage on the animals.

“Ninety-nine percent of my clients are locals.

The vets are huge supporters of it… Swimming is the perfect exercise.”

Or it may be pulling a cart of passengers. Just ask Harry or Miss Kitty.

10. Did we mention dead things to chew?

PAY MIND TO DOG LAW: KEEP DOGS LEASHED AND AWAY FROM WILD ANIMALS. MOOSE ARE KNOWN TO CHARGE PEOPLE WITH DOGS. 44

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SUMMER 2014

Participants in the Grand County Pet Pals annual Doggie Drag wait for the start of the race at Grand Park in Fraser.

and raises short-hair border collies as herding dogs that also compete in trials, showing off their abilities to maneuver through pins and gates. Rebel, one of her three girls, is heading to the National Cattledog Association’s finals in Steamboat Springs in June.

“Working dogs earn their keep,” she said, laughing. “But mine are still pretty spoiled.”

Jones’ dogs mind her small herd of sheep, and also work with cattle.

“When I was young, we raised Australian shepherds.

After having the border collies, I won’t ever have anything else. They’re smarter than I am,” she joked.

While pure-bred dogs have their place, the majority of pets in Grand County are adopted. Many are rescued from nearby states or other Colorado

cooper creek square in the HEART OF DOWNTOWN winter park

Fridays, June 20-Aug. 29

Music on the Mall, 6-8 pm

Enjoy free live music by the fountain. Hungry? Order from any of Cooper Creek's restaurants and have dinner delivered right to your table.

Saturdays, July 5-Sept. 13 (excluding July 19)

Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides, 3-7 pm Saturday, July 5

Ice Cream Social, 1-4 pm

Live music with Denver favorite Exit 232, free ice cream, face painting, balloon artist, and bouncy castle.

Saturdays, July 12-August 9

Face Painting & Balloons, 1-4 pm

Free face painting, balloon artist, bouncy house and kids play area.

Saturday, July 12

Live Music in the Courtyard, 1-4 pm Live music with local favorite, Andy Straus.

Saturday, July 26

Live Music in the Courtyard, 3-6 pm

Live music with Colorado Springs artist, Stephanie Pauline.

Saturday, Aug. 30

Labor Day Block Party & Sidewalk Sale, 1-4 pm

Sidewalk sales, live music, face painting, balloon artist and bouncy castle.

Enjoy spectacular flower gardens, courtyard fountain and kids playground.

coopercreeksquare.com / 970-726-8891 s k y h i da i ly n e ws .co m

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free chair lift rides

And so much more at granby ranch this summer

FOR FOOT PASSENGERS, LATE MAY–SEPTEMBER 28

MOUNTAIN Biking SUMMER HOURS (weather dependent) Wednesday–Sunday, 10 am–5 pm Late May–September 28 GEARS AND BEERS ENDURO RACE SERIES June 14, July 26, August 16, September 13 SHE MTB WOMEN’S MOUNTAIN BIKING CLINIC Saturday, July 19, 11 am–6 pm

hiking GUIDED NATURE HIKES Saturdays, 10:30 am–12 pm, June 25 through August 17 Discover the flora, fauna, and breathtaking views at the top of Granby Ranch.

Grab a hiker’s lunch to-go from Granby Ranch Grill.

FISHING Filled with brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, this private, three-mile stretch of gold-medal Fraser River– for anglers of all abilities.

Guided and unguided options available.

GOLFING

dINING

NIKE GOLF CAMP August 4–7 For kids ages 9–16

WEEKLY SPECIALS Wednesday: 3- and 4-course menus Thursday: 1/2-off wine selections Friday and Saturday: Dinner specials Sunday: Pizza and pasta specials

Daily, Late May–October 5 Colorado mountain golf at its finest

Granby Ranch Grill open 10 am–9 pm Wednesday–Sunday

activities VISTA VIBE Wednesday, 5–8 pm and Saturday, 2–5 pm June 25–August 30 Live acoustic music on the patio

JULY 4TH KIDS’ CARNIVAL Friday, 1–4 pm Arts and crafts, treats, and entertainment for the youthful

RESERVATIONS AND INFORMATION: 1.888.850.4615 | GRANBYRANCH.COM 1000 VILLAGE ROAD, GRANBY, CO 80446

HAPPY HOUR Wednesday–Sunday, 3–5 pm Mountainside appetizer and drink specials

Explore Grand Summer Guide

Reel in the perfect getaway.

This summer, book one room and get the 2nd room half off.*

3530 County Road 83 • Tabernash, Colorado 80478 • 970-726-5632 • www.devilsthumbranch.com * Limited quantities available. Other restrictions may apply. Blackout dates may apply. Not valid for previously booked reservations or groups. Taxes not included.

This offer may not be combined with any other promotion or package. Half price room must be equal or lesser value. Half price room must be booked for the same night.

One half price room per full price room. Sunday through Thursday, based on availability.