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Autumn on The Rio Grande
Autumn 2017
SLV Potato Festival brings new events, old favorites
BY CHELSEA MCNERNEY-MARTINEZ MONTE VISTA— The 10th Annual San Luis Valley Potato Festival will be held on Saturday, Sept. 9 and promises to fulfill its reputation as a fun, family event. The festival will feature many returning favorites to Chapman Park, including an archery contest, special guests from Colorado Gators, rock climbing wall, children’s train, bungee trampoline and lots of new, free children’s games. Of course the free baked potatoes will be a huge attraction in addition to the freshlyharvested potato sales. Proceeds from the potato sales are donated to a local charitable cause each year; this year’s will go to the family of Brian and Lynda Pauley. The Tator Trot 5K starts and ends at Chapman Park at 8 a.m. and includes optional potatothemed obstacles throughout the route, so organizers advise “be prepared to get messy.” Runners will also be entered to win door prizes. The fee to enter is 25 dollars. Other fun includes a performance by Community Band from 10-11 a.m. and an archery demonstration from 1-3 p.m. Chefs will be demonstrating potato recipes at the gazebo from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This year’s chefs include Klaus Krebs, executive chef of Isle of Capris in Black Hawk; JP Krauss, executive chef at Denver Children’s Hospital; Greg Sever, executive chef at Morning Star Assisted Living and Kevin Clarke, executive chef and director at Colorado Mountain College Apprenticeship program. The SLV Antique Iron Club will be offering hay wagon rides and homemade ice cream. There are still booth spaces available at
Chapman Park for $50, please contact CPAC at 852-3322, at their office at 1305 Park Ave or on their website, coloradopotato.org for more information. There will again be two informational train tours, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., departing from Fullenwider Park and traveling north so riders can experience the intertwined local history of the potato industry and the railroad, courtesy of San Luis Central Railroad. The Monte Vista Ambulance Service will also be at Chapman Park for their fundraiser from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The ambulance service will have coffee and donuts available in the morning and hot dogs and hamburgers for sale throughout the afternoon. They hope to raise enough money to purchase EVAC-USPLINTS, which “are used on patients with suspected spinal injury die to falls, accidents or any type of trauma. The adult and pediatric vacuum mattress provides fast, effective and comfortable immobilization for the entire patient. The mattress contours to the patient’s body without applying pressure, it reduces pressure point tenderness. The mattresses are filled with thousands of polystyrene beads, which act as a thermal insulator to help maintain the patient’s core body temperature.” The ambulance service responded to over 1,200 calls for service in 2016 alone and they regularly volunteer for numerous community events so be sure to support their hamburger fry at the potato festival. The newest event at the potato festival this year is their first annual concert, featuring upcoming country artist Brooke Eden. Eden’s concert will be held at Ski-Hi at 5 p.m. on
Photo by Anthony Guerrero
An archery demonstration will be offered again this year; safety tips and more will be given to interested children.
Saturday evening. “We are working to grow the event [the potato festival] and hopefully will make the concert as big as Stampede,” said CPAC Assistant Director Linda Weyers. She thanked the Stampede Committee who have been helping them develop the concert event and added they selected a country artist because the style “fits our geography and demographic and goes well with the potato industry… it’s another draw for Monte Vista, the festival and for the potato industry… We hope everyone will come out and support the event, be entertained and have fun.” Eden’s hit single, “Act like you don’t” has been streamed on Spotify over 17 million times to date. According to her website, “Eden has been named an Amazon Music ‘Artist to Watch in 2017,’ Vogue’s ‘10 Country ‘It’ Girls, one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, a SPOTIFY ‘Spotlight 2016’ Artist, PEOPLE’s ‘Seven Country Acts You Should Check Out’ and one of CMT’s ‘16 Listen Up Artists for 2016’ as well as ‘One to Watch’ by Country Music Rocks, NASH Country Weekly, MySpace, Nashville Lifestyles, Roughstock, Sounds Like Nashville, Whiskey Riff and more.” Eden has also opened Courtesy photo for several A-list country stars, including Tim Brooke Eden’s hit single, “Act like you don’t” has been streamed on Spotify over 17 McGraw, Alan Jackson, Sugarland and Florida million times to date.
Georgia Line. Randall Rahn has recently been added as the opening act for the concert. Rahn is a singer-songwriter originally from Los Angeles, Calif. but he relocated to Colorado Springs in 2015. Rhan has been performing throughout Colorado and heavily in the San Luis Valley region this summer. According to his website, in 2015 “Rahn released the ‘Words’ EP, winning the ‘Song of the Year’ Award for his song ‘Frozen’ and the ‘People’s Choice’ Award at the 2016 Southwest Independent Artist Awards.” His three new singles, “Incinerate,” “Mesmerized” and “HOME” are now available. Also new to the potato festival for 2017 is a semi and truck show at Chapman Park. There is no entry fee for big rigs, which will be on display for truckers and novices alike to view and vote for their favorites. Awards will be presented at 4 p.m. The Viewers’ Choice award is $100, courtesy of CPAC. The most original and furthest traveled trucks will also win $100. Two additional $50 gift certificates to Myers Brothers Truck and Tractor will be up for grabs. No trailers are allowed. For more information on the semi and truck show, please contact Jim Clare at 580-0072.
Celebrate conservation at the 2017 Headwaters Hoedown
LA GARITA—The Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust (RiGHT) invites the whole community to the conservation celebration of the year: the sixth annual Headwaters Hoedown¨ on Saturday, Sept. 23 from noon to 4 p.m. This year the hoedown will again be held at the beautiful La Garita Creek Ranch on the west side of the Valley¨ just south of Penitente Canyon and west of the La Garita Store. Hosted by the ranch owners, the Carruthers Family, and manager Mike Spearman, also RiGHT’s board chairman, the La Garita Creek Ranch is locally known as the “Balloon Ranch” thanks to its history of holding ballooning events. This will be an opportunity for RiGHT’s friends and supporters to enjoy the beauty of this private ranch that is on track to be conserved. As always¨ kids are most welcome. Weather permitting, participants will be enjoying the afternoon in a meadow tucked between the creek and the fascinating canyon walls¨ framing the view across the Valley to Mount Blanca and the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. The ranch’s guest lodge is available for backup if the weather is not so favorable. Either way¨ it will be a lovely place to
gather to listen and dance to the fabulous music of Don Richmond and the Rifters and enjoy a barbeque from Pepita Catering with plenty of fine wine and beer. The ever-popular silent auction will offer fabulous items from local artists, businesses and adventurers, from fishing float trips to dinners and theater tickets to ski lift tickets and more. A highlight of the afternoon is RiGHT’s 2017 “Save the Ranch” campaign¨ with this year’s featured property being the Olguin Ranch just south of the confluence of the Rio Grande. This is a chance for the community to invest directly in conservation, helping RiGHT to complete conservation of the spectacular scenery and important wildlife habitat along both the Rio Grande and the Conejos River. “Here at RiGHT¨ we are grateful to the landowners who choose to conserve their land with us¨” said RiGHT’s Executive Director¨ Nancy Butler. “We continue to have tremendous interest and opportunities to protect important working lands¨ water and wildlife habitat. We’re working hard to meet the rising interest and work with the families that are reaching out to us. And we know that conservation can only be achieved
with the help of our community and partners. We appreciate everyone who has been part of this effort since 1999, and we look forward to yet another worthy celebration of the conservation that has been accomplished with the help of so many. Along with our community, we think the Valley is a very special place,
and we know that if we continue to work together, we can keep it that way.” For more information, directions and to get the early bird price of $30 (the price goes to $35 on Sept. 12) and kids 16 and under are free, please visit www. riograndelandtrust.org or call the Del Norte office at 657-0800.
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Autumn on The Rio Grande
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Farmers markets finish out season with tasty goods BY LYNDSIE FERRELL
SAN LUIS VALLEY— Higher amounts of precipitation this year have yielded a higher amount of fresh produce in local markets and the results are more than delicious. Local markets ranging from Alamosa all the way up to the high elevations in Creede are packed full of tomatoes, lettuce, squash and other local produce this time of year and there is only so much time left to fill the refrigerator with their spoils. With an agricultural based community surrounding the entire Valley, farmers markets take up the days of the week and should not be missed! Alamosa hosts two weekly markets— Saturdays, on the corner of Sixth and State streets in the downtown area from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and on Wednesdays at the Rio Grande Farm Park (on Highway 17 just north of Highway 160 or a short walk across the pedestrian bridge from Cole Park) from 4-6 p.m. The markets offer a wide variety of booths for the entire family to enjoy. Local farmers gather their produce and come out to sell their fresh fruits and vegetables that are grown locally and some that come from New Mexico. This time of year, is a great time to come out and see the green chilies roasting in their roasters while taking in the sights and smells of a small-town market. Homemade goods are on display for eager shoppers looking for a special gift for the coming holiday season. In Conejos County, La Jara boasts a weekly market on Fridays at the La Jara Town Park. It will continue weekly from 3-6 p.m. through Sept. 8. Stop by for fresh local food—meat, fruit and veggies! For more information, contact Krista Ross at Town Hall, 274-5363. Venturing into Saguache County, the Crestone Saturday Market opens weekly from 10 a.m. to mid-afternoon. Regular vendors offer an awesome variety of crafts, stones & gems, handmade jewelry, clothing, plants, produce, Crestone souvenirs, cosmetics & oils, snacks & goodies and more at Crestone Town Park. While venturing out towards the west end of the Valley, be sure to swing into the Monte Vista Farmers Market to stock up on fresh produce, freshly roasted green chilies and enjoy some live entertainment from local musicians. The market is held every Friday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and is a
great place to begin a day of fun in the small town. Located just off of Highway 160, across from the information center, the market cannot be missed by travelers heading through the area. Local vendors with homemade goods and freshly made food offer a decadent array of options for any hungry passerby. The market will run through September; be sure to stop by before it’s gone for the year. South Fork is an excellent location to head to on these lazy end of summer days, with its wide variety of activities to keep guests of all ages busy with something fun to do and two separate markets. Stop by the visitor center on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to see the local market and all it has to offer. Vendors set up along the path just outside of the center in the cool grass to offer their goods to avid shoppers. Fresh produce from local farms and ranches are a tempting treat to those who visit as well as several people offering local honey, homemade jams and freshly baked goods. On Monday in South Fork is another market and antique flea market where guests can grab that special gift for someone dear and fill their baskets with a myriad of fresh produce. The market takes place at the visitor center from Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. and is a great place to spend an afternoon wandering the booths. Local hemp growers Jim and Lisa Strang can be found with their homemade hemp remedies that have caused quite the stir over the last few years. Their products range from sandals and t-shirts made from the fibrous plant to lotions and ointments that can help ease the pain of arthritis and other pain-related symptoms. Among the other booths guests will find homemade honey, jams and salsas as well as a variety of trinkets from local and visiting vendors. Creede is another great place to venture to while out on the search for Valley farmer markets. There is a local produce stand that has been in the area for several years that offers fresh produce on a daily basis and is located next to the Best Little Dog House on Main Street. There is always a wide variety of baskets laid out on the table packed full of fresh produce at decent prices for guests to pick through. On Fridays behind Basham Park in the Days of ‘92 mining competition arena, another farmers market takes place from 10 vendors and a wide variety of booths to wander a.m. until 2 p.m. This market also offers fresh for venturing guests. All of the markets will be winding down soon, produce, homemade wares from local and visiting
Photo by Keith Cerny
Now is the best time of year to visit the many farmer markets scattered throughout the Valley. Fresh produce is coming in by the bucket loads and should not be missed!
Photos by Jennifer Alonzo
The Monte Vista Farmers Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, goat milk products, homegrown meats, jewelry, wafels, cheesecakes and much more. The market runs Fridays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. in the parking lot across from the Monte Villa Inn on 1st Avenue.
so be sure to get out across the Valley to enjoy the fruits of local farmers as well as enjoy a day of family fun!
Antonito celebrates Labor Day Cruise the canyon through Creede Sept. 16 BY SYLVIA LOBATO
CREEDE—Cruisin’ the Canyon Show inspires car fanatics to motor along the beautiful Upper Rio Grande and enjoy the fall landscapes of red, gold and yellow reaching a final destination in Creede, where Main Street is lined with a kaleidoscope of colors on Saturday, Sept. 16. The public is welcome to stroll through the variety of vintage vehicles, enjoy the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s music, and vote on their favorites from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; awards are announced at 3 p.m. The day ends with a
Rod Run to the famous North Clear Creek Falls Overlook and a burger at Freemon’s Ranch. Finish the weekend Sunday morning with breakfast and a fly-in at the Mineral County Airport at 9 a.m. Dozens of planes come in and out of the Valley, putting on quite the show. Pre-registration for the Cruisin’ the Canyon Car Show is on Friday, Sept. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a meet and greet at the Creede/Mineral County Chamber from 4-6 p.m.
ANTONITO — In a town that celebrates Labor Day on a grand scale, the entire community is involved. This year’s parade will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 2 and is expected to include community floats, specialty entries, walking and riding entrants and more. Vendors and live entertainment are planned from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Antonito town park, 6th and Spruce. More live entertainment will be offered Sunday, Sept. 3. The annual Labor Day Softball Tournament will be held Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 2 and 3 at the Antonito Baseball Fields. Teams from Colorado, New Mexico and beyond look forward to this two-day activity of skill,
competition and camaraderie. Entries will benefit the Maria T. Schmitz Memorial Scholarship Fund. The cost is $275 per team, with $175 for each additional team entered by the same sponsors. Men’s and Co-Ed Divisions will play by ASA Modified Rules, with prizes given to the top three teams based on six teams per division. A Home Run Derby will be held on Saturday and unlimited home runs are accepted. Men’s team members may hit their own balls, which must be 44 core, and ASA Modified Rules. Sponsors will provide balls for Co-ed team participants. To register or for further information: please contact Christopher Schmitz at 580-8325 or Leo Schmitz at 580-4258.
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Autumn on The Rio Grande
Autumn 2017
Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell
Courtesy photos
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
See autumn through 1880s eyes
BY SYLVIA LOBATO
SAN LUIS VALLEY—Autumn in the Colorado mountains offers unparalleled beauty, some of which can only be seen from a railroad car. In the 1880s, when rail travel was often the only way to access mining camps and mountain settlements, imagine what passengers on the trains were able to see. Think of the early businesspersons, farmers, ranchers and miners who worked in the San Luis Valley in the 1880s. What glory did they behold? To find out, ride the rails.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Hidden away in a little-known corner of the southern Rocky Mountains on the border of New Mexico and Colorado is a precious historic artifact of the American West that time forgot. Built in 1880 and little changed since, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the finest and most spectacular example of steam era mountain railroading in North America. Its equipment, structures and vast landscape exist today as if frozen in the first half of the twentieth century. Owned jointly by the states of Colorado and New Mexico, this tourist train has been called a “museum on wheels.” It is one of very few operating narrow gauge railroads in the nation and the operators have set forth an interesting — and exciting — fall schedule that runs from Sept. 4-Oct. 22. The time has long passed when the railroad last hauled precious metals over Cumbres Pass, but its steam locomotives still master steep grades carrying visitors over high trestles, through tunnels and along narrow shelves above deep gorges. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
was awarded National Historic Landmark Designation in 2012. Originally constructed in 1880 as part of the Rio Grande’s San Juan Extension, the C&TS served the silver mining district of the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. Like all of the Rio Grande at the time, it was built to a gauge of 3 feet between the rails, instead of the more common 4 feet, 8-1/2 inches that became standard in the United States. The inability to interchange cars with other railroads led the Rio Grande to begin converting its tracks to standard gauge in 1890. Trains travel from Antonito, Colo. to Chama, N.M. or from Chama to Antonito. Rides can be booked either way. This year, the season will again feature a trip into history on the Galloping Goose #5, which went into service on June 8, 1933. The railroad officially called these vehicles “motors” until 1950. Built with a 1928 Pierce-Arrow limousine body and running gear, the cost was $2,599. It was rebuilt after World War II, using a World War II surplus GMC gasoline truck engine and a Wayne Corp. school bus body. In 1950, the freight/mail compartment was converted to carry 20 additional passengers for sightseeing trips. With a one-man crew and operating on gasoline rather than steam, the Galloping Goose fit the bill for economic travel. Both experiences are unique to the Cumbres & Toltec. Add the glory of fall foliage and it’s just what the conductor ordered. The C&TS steam trains make daily excursions through Oct. 19 and offer several bus-train combinations, as well as one which rolls to Osier on one train, meets another and returns home to either Antonito, Colorado or Please see TRAINS on Page 6
Join in on the fun during Labor Day weekend in Creede and enjoy the last days of summer with a full schedule of family activities Courtesy photo including the The Gravity Derby sponsored every year by the Creede and annual Creede Mineral County Chamber of Commerce will be held Sunday, Mountain Run. Sept. 3 at 9 a.m. Don’t miss the excitement!
Creede hopes for less rain on Labor Day
BY LYNDSIE FERRELL CREEDE— Over the last two years, the town of Creede has seen some very wet weather over the Labor Day weekend. The increase in precipitation has not stopped festivities from happening in the small mountain town, but everyone is hoping for a drier outcome for the coming celebrations this year. Creede always likes to end summer on a high note, with colorful celebrations to ring in the Labor Day weekend and welcome fall in the best light possible. This year will be no different and will even include some additional activities for families to enjoy. Every morning during the Labor Day weekend, local balloon pilots will be down at the Mineral County Airport at the crack of dawn to send their colorful balloons up into the air. The past two years, have been difficult due to the rain, making it almost impossible for the balloons to lift off the ground let alone be filled with hot air. Balloon owners are watching the weather reports and preparing for another year and hope to fill the skies above Creede with their flying delights. The annual balloon glow will take place one of the evenings during the weekend when the balloons stay on the ground, but light up the night sky. It is a scene not to be missed and usually comes with guests gathered around the launching area to watch the spectacle take place. The event is hosted by Creede Mining Heritage and all proceeds gathered from paying passengers go towards the restoration of Creede’s Sunnyside Chapel. On Saturday morning, just before the balloons take flight, hungry spectators and passengers can help another cause by participating in the second annual Mineral County Search and Rescue (SAR) breakfast. SAR members gather at the airport and dish out the goods to the gathering crowd, offering pancakes, sausage and bacon. All proceeds go towards purchasing equipment and help with training expenses for the SAR team. The organization also holds a barbecue lunch consisting of hamburgers and hotdogs during the ATV rodeo that takes place on Monday. Saturday morning comes with a fresh start for those who want to compete in the Creede Mountain Run. This run is a great way to say goodbye to the summer and welcome fall as runners of all abilities
take to Main Street and head up along the Bachelor Loop. Runners can choose from a two, 12 or 22-mile run that takes runners all the way to the top of the Continental Divide and then back down into Creede. The race tests a runner’s endurance and is a fun way to celebrate Labor Day weekend. Guests can spend the rest of the day watching runners as they come back into town while partaking in a delicious competition. Local businesses pull out all of their hot talents and offer delectable salsa to participants as they wander along Main Street and venture into shops and local restaurants. The Salsa Festival will kick off at 10 a.m. on Saturday morning where participants will walk town and taste different homemade salsas. There are four categories to compete in: red, green, fruit and freestyle. Participants are the judges and choose their favorite for both Saturday and Sunday in each category. The winning salsas get the glory of having bragging rights for the rest of the year and is a wonderful way to get to know Creede and its locals. Sunday comes with even more fun family activities as the annual gravity derby starts at 7:30 a.m. and has only three rules. Participants must make their soapbox cars with steering, stopping and braking capabilities and let gravity do the rest. Participants of all ages gather at the top of Main Street near the sheriff’s department and roll down the hill as fast as their soapbox cars will take them. Spectators come out in the early morning to cheer them on as they race to the finish line. End the last of summer on a rodeo note with the annual ATV rodeo. Participants gather at the Mineral County Fairgrounds to test their skills as an ATV rider. A course is set up inside the rodeo grounds that is full of obstacles that consist of mud, jumps and fun. Riders of all ages participate during the event and people gather in the stands to watch the rodeo unfold. There is always something for everyone in Creede and while enjoying the Labor Day festivities, be sure to grab some theatre tickets to see Creede Repertory Theatre’s Tally’s Folly which will have several showings throughout the weekend. Whether taking in the sites, tasting salsa or racing down Main Street in a soapbox car, there is something for the entire family to enjoy during Labor Day weekend in Creede!
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Fall fishing in the San Luis Valley
BY TERESA L. BENNS
SAN LUIS VALLEY — Pack up the tackle and combine a tour of the gorgeous fall colors in the high country with a fishing trip, now that the tourists have gone and the kids have headed back to school.
There’s great fall fishing at any one of the many locations below, whether it’s trout, salmon, bass or German browns destined for the hook. Fish are anxious to feed in the fall to survive winter temperatures. Because it is spawning season, anglers are asked to not disturb the spawning process. Fishing enthusiasts look forward all summer to the cool water temperatures of fall, when fish, invigorated by the cooler water temperatures are most likely to be biting any time they want to set down a line. For bait, try BWOs, tricos, midges, a few caddis flies and nymphs for those big ones feeding far below. Once the monsoons have passed, water levels will lower some and the temperatures will bring out the frisky in the fish. That’s when to head for any number of lakes and streams in the Valley and the list is nearly endless. Some 13 lakes and reservoirs are only 20 minutes from the town of South Fork. Among these are: • Million Reservoir — four acres of water, 8,700 feet elev., rainbow, great sightseeing; • Big Meadows, — 114 acres of water, 9,200 feet elev., rainbow, brook trout, salmon, German browns, great for kids and seniors, handicap access; • Beaver Creek Reservoir — 114 acres of water, same 8,850 elev., same amenities as Big Meadows;
There is great fall fishing in many locations around the Valley.
• Shaw Lake — 20 acres, 9,850 feet elev., great trolling for cutthroats and brookies, handicap access, boat ramp and restrooms; • Alberta Park Reservoir — Elevation 10,202, forest and meadows, large trout and Courtesy photos brooks; • Hunters Lake — Eight acres of water, 11,400 elev., fly-fishing good for rainbows, one-half hour hike from car; • Tucker Ponds — Four acres of water, 9,700 elev., rainbows, great for kids and novices, camping, picnicking, restrooms, handicap access; • Pass Creek Pond — Good for bait and fly fishing, rainbows, limited parking; • Three high mountain lakes — Archuleta, Crystal and Crater — are all between 11,300 and 12,700 elevation. Archuleta and Crystal require a four-wheel drive vehicle or involve a difficult hike. • Rio Grande Reservoir – 9,541 ft., 2,000a. Rocky and steep shoreline; rainbows and browns with some cutthroats. • Road Canyon Reservoir – 9,725 ft. 100a. Bordered by grass and conifer/aspen forests. 1-3 lb. rainbows, 10-15 inch brooks. (Winter access by car.) • Brown Lakes – 9,840 ft., 180a Grassy meadow area surrounding pine and aspen forest. Rainbows and cutthroats, 1-4 lb. Courtesy photo browns and 10-16 inch brooks. Occasional This photo from the national competition shows contraptions that are used to send winterkill; best fishing early summer. • Rito Hondo Reservoir – 10,240 ft., 40a. pumpkins through the air. Aspen groves and meadows, 1-3 lb. Stocked rainbows: 10-14 inch wild brook trout. • Spring Creek – Good flyfishing for 8-12 inch brooks in upper end. (Car/RV access with walk-in fishing.) • North Clear Creek – 10-14” rainbows LA JARA — Unique and scientific for groups up to an eight-person team. and cutthroats, and 8-12” brooks. (Car/RV entertainment will be offered at the La Jara For more information, call Krista at La Jara access with walk-in fishing.) Smash Fest Saturday, Oct 28, the town’s first- Town Hall, 274-5363. Seepage Lake – 9,019 ft. 20a., fair for 1-6 ever Pumpkin Chunkin contest. It’s a great way to get rid of extra pumpkins in the fall and has been a crowd favorite across the country since 1986. Pumpkin Chunkin is the sport of hurling or ‘chucking’ a pumpkin solely by mechanical means for distance. The devices used may include slingshots, catapults, centrifugals, trebuchets and pneumatic cannons. The Guinness world record shot is held by a pneumatic cannon dubbed “Big 10 Inch”, at 5,545.43 feet (1,690.25 m), on Sept. 9, 2010 at Moab, Utah. The range achieved by devices greatly depends on their mass, shape, and size; the yield limits, stiffness, pitch and elevation of the hurler, as well as the weather. One of the core rules for competition is that the pumpkin must remain whole after leaving the device until hitting the ground for the chunk to count. Pumpkins that burst after leaving the barrel or sling are referred to as “pie” (short for “pumpkin pie in the sky”). A $25 registration fee applies to the La Jara event and all registrations are due by Sept. 15
Pumpkin chunkin’ will offer autumn excitement in La Jara
lb. cutthroats and rainbows and 12-24 inch brooks. • Continental Reservoir – 10,300 ft. 150a., stocked rainbow, cutthroat and brook, (overnight camping prohibited). A few fall fly fishing spots to consider are Poso and Storm King campgrounds in the middle fork of Carnero Creek, also Carnero Guard station. Comstock and Rock Creek Campgrounds, also Valle Verde Group picnic site are fly-fishiog destinations in Monte Vista. Embargo, Burro and Bennet Creeks in Del Norte, also Benino Trail and La Garita Creek Trail are additional places for some quiet fishing moments. The Conejos River also is excellent for wild browns and rainbows. Best fishing is in June or July. Sanchez Reservoir and San Luis Lakes experienced extremely low water levels in 2013. Call 719-587-6900 before visiting. For a more comprehensive list of fishing spots, visit http://www.creede.com/fishing. html
Local hardware stores sell fishing licenses, which must be purchased by those 16 and over. Or purchase a license online at http:// cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing. aspx And don’t forget the flies, especially the mayfly and the elk hair caddis fly, for those into fly fishing. Other suggested choices can be found on the website above.
One of the best chances to catch a trophy trout may just be a four or eight-hour float rip down the Rio Grande, offered in South Fork by South Fork Anglers. Or fly-fishers can try their wade trips and private access ranch adventures. For more information, go to https://8200sports.com/south-forkanglers/
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Autumn 2017
Don’t miss the great Penitente bike race Oct. 14
LA GARITA — The Third Annual 12 Hours of Penitence endurance mountain bike race is set for Oct. 14 at Penitente Canyon Recreation Area. Race solo, duo, or trio teams on this gnarly 16-mile course. Stay tuned for more details to come. Registration runs $100/racer. Registration is capped at 150 riders, so register early to save your place! For those not riding but who would like to volunteer, there is a volunteer sign up opening up soon. Check this site and the12 HOP Facebook page for updates. Interested in sponsoring this year’s race? A big thank you goes out to all of the individuals and companies helping make 12HOP happen through sponsorship funds. Those interested can also support this year’s race by becoming a sponsor! Check out the sponsor page below for more information. This year ’s race is centralized, so everything riders, volunteers, and attendees/ visitors need will be within Penitente Canyon. Vendors interested in being on site for this great event can visit the Vendor page at https://12hoursofpenitence.com/2016/07/25/ racers-volunteers-sponsors-vendors/ to learn
more. Send an email to 12hoursofpenitence@ gmail.com with any questions. About the race The “12 Hours of penitence” will consist in riding a 21-mile lap that gains 2,000 feet in elevation per lap as riders course the tortuous footpaths of Penitente Canyon. For now, racers are asked to use the map found at https://12hoursofpenitence.com/the-racecourse/ for practice laps. The actual lap will not be made public until the week of the race in accordance with the BLM permit. Raleigh Burt, Kristi Mountain Sports, LLC, business development manager, offered the following summary of the challenging event following last year’s race. “Rich in history, full of perfect trails, flagellation, cactus fields, bouldering-bybike, and a large rattlesnake population to keep it interesting, Penitente Canyon is going to make for a memorable weekend of suffering on two-wheels,” the group’s website predicted. The site has been recruiting “mountain bikers who like to suffer… not unlike Los Hermanos Penitente” for the ride for the past several months. The Windsor Hotel and Three Barrel Brewing Co. in Del Norte sponsored the ride last year. “Thanks to the BLM and the Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, we are working to create new trails that will make our laps amazing, raise enough money for signage and open some otherwise impermissible trails to 12 Hours of Penitence racers (only on race day!).”
Courtesy photos
The third annual bike race in Penitente Canyon will hit the trails on Oct. 14 offering vigorous fun for all participants. “The general course overview is 16 miles with 2,000 vertical feet of climbing/descent. The course ascends the Penitente Canyon (which is generally closed to bike traffic). The climb out of the canyon is very difficult with a bike — basically every racer has to push/drag their bike to the top. “After that they descend to the southern portion of the trail network which is fast and open desert single track. The route then becomes much more technical as riders climb the rocky trail named Sunshine Kitty, then
TRAINS Rio Costilla Studio Tour planned Sept. 8-10 SAN LUIS VALLEY — The 19th Annual Rio Costilla Studio Tour will be held on Friday, Sept. 8, from 4-7 p.m. with free live music on the Costilla Plaza and some selected studios open. The tour continues on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 9 and 10, from 10 a.m.5 p.m. Visit 22+ artists’ studios featuring fine art painting, bronze and glass sculpture, ceramics, woodworking, hand made musical instruments and more. Enjoy home made baked goods and see acres of cultivated wild flowers. Enjoy lunch on the historic Costilla Plaza. Tour maps available are available at the Costilla Plaza and at all artist studios. A l s o s e e w w w. riocostillaart.com For further information contact Courtesy photo David Saturn, 575 ‘Fusion’(color phase transition) is light illuminated new media 586-1581, dman@ fine art by Kathryn Tatum, one of the artists featured in the taosnet.com. 19th Annual Rio Costilla Studio Tour.
descend through Rock Drops, Blue Sky and the San Juan Iglesia trail back to the finish line.” Overall the event was a success with almost every rider planning to return next year, Burt concluded, happening now with the third annual Penitente registration for 2017. Proceeds from the race will benefit “Youths on Bikes” this year. The following schedule is listed at the site (http://12hoursofpenitence. com/the-area-what-to-do-where-to-stay-andplay/):
Continued from Page 4 Chama, N.M. Garden and festival booths before the train For reservations and information, call 719- heads back to Alamosa. 376-5483. Fall Colors Explorer: Rio Grande Scenic Railroad Enjoy views of the rich golden tones of the The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad begins in Aspen leaves contrasted against the green pines, Alamosa and travels on historic tracks over rugged rocks and the wide-open blue skies. La Veta Pass that were completed on June Colorful aspen and reddish underbrush wave at 22, 1878. Alamosa was quickly put on the the traveler as watchable wildlife emerge from map by this narrow gauge rail supplying ore, the forest to watch the train roll past. lumber, cattle, sheep and farm products to the Making Mother Nature’s stunning seasonal developing valley and in turn, shipping out show even better, a range of autumn activities agricultural and mining products. From 1890 has been added to this popular ride. to 1950, Alamosa hummed day and night with Guests will begin their journey in a fullthe activity of both passenger and freight trains length dome car, where every guest is treated from Denver, Durango, Santa Fe, Salida and to a reserved seat. Appetizers are served in the Creede. After the 1950s, the track was used historic and restored Club Car, complete with exclusively for freight until becoming part of full service bar. Premier Rail Collection in 2006.Passengers can A staged photo opportunity is available on again experience excursion trains on rails that Mule Shoe Loop, where a historic cattle chute curve and wind through steep rocky grade and and snow fence provide a scenic backdrop as mountain meadows with elk, eagles and bears the train tackles the steepest grade of the route. often in view. Another staged photo opportunity will feature Today, trains pulled by diesel and electric the majestic Spanish Peaks, rising to 13,626 feet locomotives depart from the historic Alamosa and 12,683 feet in altitude. An open-air car for depot and travel over scenic LaVeta Pass to the viewing and photographing the wonders along railroad-mining town of LaVeta to explore the the line is always part of the train. quaint downtown. It’s an unequaled opportunity A spectacular experience is offered from the to enjoy the majestic mountains. Full breakfast comfort of famous dome cars where a freshly and lunch service is available in the dining room. prepared lunch will be served with a fall Each train departs Alamosa 9:30 a.m. A stop themed menu. An engaging onboard speaker in Fort Garland leaves at 10:15 a.m. will present talks and other information. Be In addition, The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad sure to book tickets early or miss out on the is pleased to offer two special events that most colorful ride of the season. celebrate autumn in Colorado. This spectacular railroad has obtained and The Fall Colors Explorer runs weekends from restored cars from the “train they call the City Sept. 9 to Oct. 20 and the special Oktoberfest of New Orleans,” made famous in song by Train rolls out Oct. 7. folk singers such as Arlo Guthrie, and takes the rider back to the opulence of yesteryear. Oktoberfest: Those who ride in the famed dome cars will Board the train in Alamosa to try a selection also dine in elegance. of beer inspired by the season from the SLV For more information, see coloradotrain.com Brewery. Live music will be played in the or call 877-726-7245. Club Car and a variety of food choices will be Take a trip back in time on one or both of available for purchase. An extended stop in the San Luis Valley’s historic railroads. The La Veta will offers a visit to the German Bier memories will never disappear.
Autumn on The Rio Grande
Autumn 2017
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Celebrate fall in Saguache at annual festival SAGUACHE—The 24th Annual Saguache Fall Festival and Quilt Show will take place on Sept. 16 at Otto Mears Park and the Saguache Community Building in Saguache. A hot cakes and sausage breakfast will be served by the Saguache County Museum from 7-11 a.m. Outside in Otto Mears Park starting at 9 a.m. there will be a variety of vendors— food booths, jewelry and artisans displaying everything from handcrafted items to artworks, kids’ activities, hot roasted chilies, live entertainment and more. The event is hosted by the Saguache Chamber of Commerce and is the primary fundraiser for the chamber to support community activities. Otto Mears Park is located on the east side of US 285 between Pitkin and Christy (1st and 2nd streets on the right when traveling north on U.S. Highway 285 through Saguache or the last two streets on the left when traveling south on U.S. Highway 285).
Check out all the great vendors during the annual fall festival and quilt show in Saguache on Sept. 16. Photo by Teresa Benns
37th Early Iron Festival welcomes nitro dragsters ALAMOSA— The Early Iron Festival is a huge, small town car show featuring vintage hot rods and custom cars driven to the Valley from all over the country. This is one of the largest car shows in southern Colorado and cannot be missed. Held in Cole Park in downtown Alamosa, Sept. 1-3, the festival brings visitors from Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, Utah and Kansas. The show, which started some 37 years ago, now draws well over 600 rodders and street car enthusiasts. On-site registration will be held from 3-7 p.m. on Friday, Sept 1. A sponsor/rodder party will be held in Cole Park; food and beverages are provided by the Early Iron Club beginning at 4:30 p.m. with the party winding down around 9 p.m. when the nitro dragsters will light up the sky. The park opens at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2. The Show and Shine will be held from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with winners announced from 3-4 p.m. The Panel Jam Auction will be
held at 11 a.m., and a Ladies Tea and Vintage Fashion Show will be held from 1-2:45 p.m. The Nitro Car Burn kicks off at 2 p.m., and dinner will be at 5:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus with door prize drawings, rodders’ choice and ladies’ choice awards presented. The day will close with a slow cruise through downtown Alamosa at 8 p.m. Sunday will include a rodder church service at 8:15 a.m. followed by the poker run at 9:15 a.m. The Vintage Nitro Display and Early Iron Panel Jam is a new part of this 37-year legacy of hot rod awesomeness in southern Colorado. Pinstriping is a craft that the Early Iron Club appreciates and honors as an integral part of hot rodding and it’s history. Don’t miss out on this annual event; Alamosa is a true “Hot Rod Town” with the city council even setting aside an actual day as ”Early Iron Day” on the Saturday before Courtesy photo Labor Day! For more information, visit www. The Saturday night slow cruise through downtown is a community favorite. earlyironclub.com.
Flying W Wranglers perform at Orient Land Trust event SAN LUIS VALLEY — Orient Land Trust, providing land conservation, recreational and educational opportunities in the upper San Luis Valley, is proud to present the Flying W Wranglers on Sept. 16, at 4 p.m. at the historic Everson Ranch for a Chuck Wagon Harvest Dinner Concert & Dance. Register online at www.olt.org. Tickets for the dinner and concert are $50 per adult, $25 for minors aged 13-17 and there is no extra charge for kids under 12. All kids and minors must be accompanied by an adult. The Flying W Wranglers have been performing music for more than 63 years, making them the second oldest Western music group in the world. Riding with the
Wranglers promises the experience of classic country, western swing and gospel music with a bit of cowboy wit. Expect unique western harmonies, fantastic yodeling, superb instrumentation and great songs of the American West. The Flying W Wranglers are a Colorado tradition. See http://www. flyingwwranglers.com. The Chuck Wagon Dinner will include all the fixins, with vegetarian and gluten free options. The dinner will feature meat and vegetables from the ranch served in true farm-to-table fashion. Help celebrate the wonderful efforts and successes at the ranch this year. The Everson Ranch is part of the Orient
Land Trust’s Land Conservation Program which protects more than 2,200 acres. The ranch engages in historic ranching operations with the goal of soil and water restoration. Other ranch projects improve riparian areas and eliminate invasive weeds. The reservoir at the ranch is also protecting Rio Grande Chub and Rio Grande Sucker fish species. Ranch tours will be available throughout the day. Visit the animals, the community garden and walk to the Everson Reservoir to see the meanders project, a joint effort with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to protect endangered species of fish. All proceeds go to support Orient Land Trust. Thanks go to RustingRam Catering.
Buy tickets now at www.olt.org. Call 719256-4315 or email info@olt.org for more information. Event s chedule Gathering for dinner and drinks at 3:45 p.m. Dinner begins at 4 p.m. Main concert and dance with the Flying W Wranglers 4-6 p.m. Ranch tours will be offered before the event. Orient Land Trust is a nonprofit land trust dedicated to the preservation of Valley View Hot Springs (VVHS) and its viewshed— including natural and biologic resources, agricultural lands, wildlife habitat, open space, and historic and geologic features of the northern San Luis Valley—for the education and enjoyment of current and future.
Visit our IMPROVED Web Sites for the latest local news! www.montevistajournal.com www.mineralcountyminer.com www.conejoscountycitizen.com www.southforktines.com www.centerpostdispatch.com www.delnorteprospector.com
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Autumn on The Rio Grande
Autumn 2017
South Fork Colorfest begins Sept. 16
BY CHELSEA MCNERNEY-MARTINEZ MONTE VISTA— The San Luis Valley has many famous routes for fall foliage viewing, both on and off the beaten path. By roughly midSeptember it will be easy to see the breathtaking yellows, oranges and reds cascading down the mountains and throughout the Valley, formed from the native Aspen, Cottonwood and other trees’ fall foliage proclaiming the coming winter. Here are some of the favorite, easy-to-drive routes for novices or non-four wheel drive vehicles to view and photograph changing leaves throughout the San Luis Valley. Northern San Luis Valley routes Saguache County Road T: From Highway 17 turn east in Moffat to take County Road T to Crestone, Colo. The 18-mile route is easy for drivers to get a good view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in autumn. Cochetopa Pass: The 69-mile route from Saguache to Gunnison down Highway 114 offers views from high elevations and riverside foliage views as well. Southern San Luis Valley routes Heading South on Highway 17 in Antonito offers fans of fall foliage a great view down the Conejos Canyon. If snow hasn’t fallen yet, turn onto Forest Service Road 250 for another 24 miles of spectacular colors up mountains and down valleys all the way to Platoro Reservoir. This drive is slow-going but most vehicles can make it. The Cumbres and Toltec Railroad also offers autumn train routes to Chama, N.M. that take passengers through the southern mountains to see changing aspen trees at their most glorious stages. Eastern San Luis Valley routes
Highway 160 over La Veta Pass is a classic route, famous throughout the state for the waves of yellows visible to the south from changing Aspens. Rio Grande Scenic Railroad also offers a series of Fall Colors Explorer trains from Sept. 9 through Oct. 17 to see these beautiful colors up close. Western San Luis Valley routes Highway 160 from South Fork to Pagosa Springs takes drivers 43 miles over Wolf Creek Pass. A scenic overlook near the top of the pass is a favorite spot for tourists to take photos, but places like Big Meadows Reservoir and Treasure Falls are easily accessible from the highway and offer additional photo opportunities The Silver Thread Highway 149 from South Fork to Creede is a 22-mile canyon drive, very popular with tourists. As the canyon is narrow and many people stop to take pictures of the Aspen and Cottonwood trees descending the mountains toward the glorious Rio Grande, please use caution and heed the signs along the route. South Fork Colorfest The Town of South Fork and the South Fork Visitors Center put on an annual Colorfest celebration from Sept. 16-24. During the peak foliage viewing season, Colorfest highlights five routes through the western side of the San Luis Valley, listed below. Please contact the South Fork Visitors Center at 873-5512 before attempting these to determine if they are recommended for any vehicle, for jeeps only or for ATVs only. Platoro: Take Park Creek Road (380) toward Summitville. Take the turn to Ellwood Pass which will take you to Platoro. On the way down you will drive through canopies of Aspen and have
Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell
Fall is just around the corner, the Valley will once again offer an array of beautiful colors. incredible views in all directions. The trip is 40 the mesa to be surrounded by golden aspen. miles one way and should take around two hours. Beaver Creek Road: Take Highway 160 west Lake City: Take the Silver Thread Highway three miles to Beaver Creek Reservoir road/road (149) from South Fork to Lake City for spectacular 360. Head south toward Poage Lake. The first five views of the mountains and a patchwork of color. to seven miles are through aspen forest. You will Be sure to stop at North Clear Creek Falls. pass through the pines then the spruce and fir for Pool Table/Wheeler Geologic Area: Take the great views of the surrounding mountains. Silver Thread Highway (149) toward Creede. Willow Creek/Del Norte Peak: Head two miles Just past Cottonwood Cove, there will be a sign east of South Fork on Highway 160 to Gerrard that says “Pool Table.” It is road 600, which is 14 Road/Road 350, also known as Willow Creek miles. You may drive a two wheel drive vehicle road. You may follow it south up to the junction of to Hanson’s Mill then take the hiking trail up 6.5 road 345 where you will turn back to the northeast, miles to the geologic area. After the mill you will then meander back to the north west around Del need a four wheel drive vehicle. Drive on top of Norte Peak for beautiful views of the mountain.
SLV Local Foods Coalition hosting Harvest Soirée
ALAMOSA—The San Luis Valley is a cornucopia of agricultural production that culminates in the fall season. In observance of the plentiful harvest the San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition (LFC) will host its fifth annual harvest celebration at the Rio Grande Farm Park on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All are invited to experience a diversity of food featuring local ingredients, the delicious spirits of SLV Brewing Company and Vino Salida, plenty of live local music provided by our own Alamosa Local Music Association (ALMA) and many fine local artists with their arts and crafts for sale. This year’s event will include the local Alamosa Farmers Market. All vendors will be relocating the usual Saturday Farmers Market to the Rio Grande Farm Park with normal market vendors and hours. The Rio Grande Farm Park is located at 6935 Highway 17 in Alamosa. This family-friendly event will also feature a petting zoo, games, hayrides, and farm tours, and educational activities. This event is made possible from a generous grant to several community partners through the LFC from the Colorado Health Foundation with a goal to activate outdoor spaces focusing on the Rio Grande corridor. The LFC is also very grateful to its host sponsor the First Southwest Bank for their business sponsorship of the organization’s mission. Local foods will be prepared and served from all across the Valley and of many unique cuisines including: Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant, The
MOKI with delicious crepes prepared by local chef Dave Gordon, Crestone’s The Fox and Owl Noodle Cart with creative noodle dishes with local veggies and meat, Chris Gosar’s famous Gosar Sausage, Buy The Scoop local residents Nathan and Brittany serve ice cream with cow’s milk from a front range dairy in Longmont, and local resident Lucia Gaspar’s homemade tamales. “We are really excited about our fourth annual event festival-style showcasing many of our amazing local chefs, cooks, musicians and artists as a ‘friend-raiser. Old friends and new.’ Please come celebrate with us on the land” said Liza Marron, Local Foods Coalition executive director. Tickets Tickets are available online for the Soiree at HarvestSoiree.eventbrite.com or at the event itself. Tickets are $5. Children five and under get in free. Please be prepared to support local artists and food truck vendors. For information on the event call the LFC office at 937-2319 or email to slvlocalfoods@gmail.com About SLV Local Foods Coalition and the Rio Grande Farm Park The SLV Local Foods Coalition works to foster a more equitable local food system that restores the health of the people, community, economy and ecosystem. It achieves this mission through the Valley Roots Food Hub an aggregation and distribution hub in Mosca of local foods to regional restaurants, retail outlets, institutions and a seasonal fresh box to families. Cooking Matters teaches
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The fifth annual Harvest Soirée comes to Rio Grande Farm Park on Saturday, Sept. 9 offering family-friendly fun including hayrides, educational activities, games, a petting zoo and more. cooking courses to parents showing them how to cook healthy on a budget. Healthy Habits conducts cooking demonstrations at both Monte Vista and Alamosa Farmers markets sharing recipes and tastes of the day and finally the “Local Roots” Food Guide featuring all known SLV producers who make their product available to SLV eaters. The third edition of the Local Roots Guide
will be available soon. www.slvlocalfoods.org The Rio Grande Farm Park is an innovative, multi-use agricultural park designed to provide public economic development and a space for the community to gather and learn about sustainable food. When finished, it will feature walking trails, a working farm, a commercial kitchen and more. www.riograndefarmpark.org