ADVENTURE
The Frozen Bucket List
Top ten things to do this winter in Southwest Colorado
1
SKATE ACROSS A NATURAL POND.
The love for snow and ice doesn’t end with skiing and snowboarding. From December to March, small frozen waterways are another canvas for recreation. During the winter season, sheets of ice contribute to fun activities, such as broomball, curling and ice hockey. Ice skating is a winter activity that is fun for people of all ages and abilities. Though there are several places to enjoy ice skating indoors, nothing can match the magic of skating on a frozen natural pond. Don’t forget to bundle in warm layers. Bring personal ice skates or rent a pair from a nearby retailer. To see a list of places to enjoy ice skating this season, see page 11.
2
SLIDE DOWN THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE.
Colorado is known for its access to the Rocky Mountains. Though there are taller mountains located across the pond, the mountain range gives people an idea of what it feels like to be on top of the world. Lobo Overlook, located off highway 160 just above Wolf
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WINTER GUIDE
Creek Pass near Pagosa Springs, is the perfect place to sled down the continental divide. It has incredible views of the Wolf Creek valley, including the nearby ski resort. The trail is open to snowmobilers and other snow travelers, so proceed with caution. See more sledding destinations on page 10.
3
VISIT THE NORTH POLE.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad not only gives guests an opportunity to travel back in time by riding in vintage coaches, but it also turns into a magical portal that transports passengers to the north pole every winter. The D&SNG presents a spectacular interactive musical show inspired by the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express. Two of Santa’s reindeer and many friendly elves will greet visitors when they reach the north pole. Guests are invited to enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie while they tour Santa’s workshop. Bring a camera to take a photo with Santa. This year, the event has been altered to keep social distancing guidelines in mind. To
SOUTHWEST COLORADO
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schedule a trip to the north pole this winter, visit www.durangotrain.com.
4
TAKE A MOONLIT SNOWSHOE TOUR.
When the sun sinks below the mountains in the Animas Valley, light is reflected from clouds and mountains turning the sky a beautiful blend of pink, purple and orange. There’s no better way to experience the alpenglow phenomenon than with a snowshoe tour. Trek across blankets of snow that cover mountain tops near Purgatory Resort guided by the starlight overhead. Guests will begin with a chairlift ride on the last lift of the day. A guide will lead the group on pristine backcountry trails, sharing knowledge of the wildlife, geology, flora and fauna. Then, participants will stop to see a winter sunset before arriving at the Powderhouse and Pitchfork Pub to enjoy a picnic complete with hot cocoa, wine, beer, cheese and fruit. Clear, dark skies reveal bright constellations above on the hike back to base. To reserve a spot, call (970) 385-2147.
