FREE Take One
Photo courtesy of Keith R. Cerny
A Guide to Winter Recreation in Colorado’s San Luis Valley
Photo courtesy of Patrick Myers/NPS
Winter 2O18 Valley Publishing Photo courtesy of Scott Smith/ Wolf Creek Ski Area
(719) 852-3531 835 First Ave. • Monte Vista
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Winter on The Rio Grande
Winter 2018
12th annual hockey tourney skating into Creede
CREEDE—A chilly breeze, a warm bonfire, and an afternoon cocktail make the Creede Pond Hockey tournament one of the most loved winter events in town. Called “The Golden Pick,” it is sponsored by Tommyknocker and Kip’s Grill for Creede Athletics and will be held on Jan. 19 and 20, 2019. The event began with two business owners from the Creede area wanting to have some friendly fun among residents during the slow winter months and has now turned into one of the largest pond hockey tournaments in southwestern Colorado. Tommyknocker Tavern and Kip’s Grill came together with a few people at the beginning and allowed it to grow into a full-on hockey event that spices up the chilly, slow winter months in town. Updated facilities include a warming hut, and (NEW) zamboni shed constructed by Carhartt and Jason Mamoa’s Pride of Gypsies in February 2015. In the years since, the ponds above town have gone from mere recreational ponds to becoming a designated city park, suitably named for Creede’s unique mining history as Silver Ice Park. The City of Creede adopted the ponds, during a series of meetings in 2015 and helped with funding that purchased several lights that now line the outer edges of the ponds to allow for late night skating. The ponds are lined with burn barrels to keep players warm and bleachers for cheering fans to come and enjoy the friendly hockey fun. The ponds are located at 8,900 feet elevation which adds an additional challenge to the tournament and its players. The views surrounding the rinks add an incentive to those who travel from all over the southwestern US to take part in the hockey tournament. Players from all walks of life travel to Creede just to enjoy the laid-back fun tournament that caters to all levels of experience. The tournament consists of two levels of competition and is set up in a way that ensures each participating team gets to play at least one playoff game by the end. The schedule is known to hockey enthusiasts as a round robin format with a three-on-three team play. Registration is now open, so be sure to visit www.creedepondhockey. wordpress.com to get signed up.
Photo by Keith Cerny
Action is fast and furious during the annual Creede pond hockey tournament on the flume ponds across from the Creede Community Center and Mining Museum.
Guests gather around a roaring fire at the Silver Ice Park ponds during the tournament to keep the cold temperatures at bay. Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell
Don’t miss the 15th Annual South Fork Winterfest SOUTH FORK— The South Fork Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Rio Grande County Tourism Board and local businesses are getting ready to host the 15th Annual Winterfest Friday and Saturday, Dec. 7 and 8. The event will be held at the Rio Grande Club and the South Fork Community Building. Enjoy Christmas shopping close to home with favorite vendors on Friday and Saturday at the Rio Grande Club from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be hourly door
prizes, and lunch will be available for those interested. Santa will be in attendance on Friday as well. On Saturday, stop by the South Fork Community Building from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a fun-filled family day to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. Santa will be available, as well as children’s crafts, wreath-making, Bible stories and more. Free lunch and snacks will be provided. Call the South Fork Visitor’s Center at 719-873-5512 for more information.
s ’ k r a M
Outdoor Sports 719-589-2774
235 Craft Drive • Alamosa
www.marksoutdoorsports.biz
Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell
Vendors will again set up shop at the Rio Grande Club for the annual Winterfest, peddling homemade gifts, sweet treats and locally made wares.
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ATVs • Trailers Snowmobiles Service All Makes & Models Offers vary by model. Offers valid on select new 2016 – 2019 Polaris snowmobiles. On approved Polaris purchases. Minimum Payments required. Offer may not be combined with certain other offers, is subject to change and may be extended or terminated without further notice. All rebates are paid to the dealer. The Promotional Limited Warranty consists of the standard 12-month factory warranty plus an additional 12, or 24 months of additional promotional limited warranty coverage for a total of 24 or 36 months of warranty coverage. Any additional warranty coverage after the initial 12-month factory warranty is subject to a $50.00 deductible per visit. Valid at participating Polaris Snowmobile dealers only. Model & year exclusions apply. See your local dealer for details. Offers valid between 11/01/18 – 12/31/18. US: Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Program minimum amount financed is $5,000 and 0% – 10% down payment required. Sales tax, registration fees, and dealer fees not included. Minimum Amounts Financed, Interest Charges, and penalties for accounts non-current, may apply. Financing promotions void where prohibited. Canada: This is a limited time offer which is valid for the purchase of selected qualifying models and is subject to credit approval from TD Auto Finance (TDAF) on qualified purchases financed during this program. Rates from other lenders may vary. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Minimum amount to finance is $5,000. Example: $7,500 financed at 3.99% over 36 months = 36 monthly payments of $221.40 with a cost of borrowing of $470.27 and a total obligation of $7,970.27. Freight, license, PPSA/RPDRM, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees and other applicable fees and taxes are not included in the financed amount. Dealers are free to set individual prices, but must be enrolled with TDAF to participate. Does not apply to prior purchases.
Winter 2018
Winter on The Rio Grande
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Parade of Lights getting ‘beaching’ in Del Norte
DEL NORTE— Del Norte will officially welcome the holiday season on Friday, Dec. 7. The Del Norte Chamber of Commerce will host the 2018 Parade of Lights on Friday evening with the theme “Christmas on the Beach.” To kick off the festivities the Parade of Lights will be held at 6 p.m. Attendees can expect entertaining and colorful floats lighting up the night as they march through town. Many local organizations and businesses decorate their cars and even horses with Christmas lights to the delight of the crowd. Prized will be awarded for “most beachworthy” entry and “best overall float.” Following the parade the celebration is certainly not over. Immediately after the parade, the night sky light up with fireworks. Downtown merchants will also host their annual open house events from 5-8 p.m. Many local businesses will remain open past their normal operating hours to help consumers get a head start on their Christmas shopping. It is not uncommon for some to have refreshments and other goodies. A main event for the community’s youngins is the opportunity to see Santa. After the fireworks Santa will stop his sleigh at the High Valley Community Center at 595 Grande Avenue. He will listen to what each child desires for Christmas. Certainly not to be forgotten local residents will also have a hand in bringing Christmas illuminations to town. The “Light Up Del Norte” home decorating contest encourages residents to decorate and illuminate their properties. This contest has always resulted in some very creative and breathtaking decorations that add holiday cheer to the town. Prizes will be awarded to the top three residential and business entries. Voting will take place from Dec. 1-10, and prizes will be awarded on Dec. 18. For more information, visit delnortechamber. The Del Norte Head Start bus was decorated as a gingerbread house for the 2017 parade. org.
Evergreen wreaths made possible by Wreaths of America rest in the snow at Homelake Cemetery last December.
Photo by Teresa L. Benns
Participate in Wreaths Across America
HOMELAKE—The Homelake Cemetery has participated in the Wreaths Across America since 2007 and this program has encouraged families to purchase a wreath to be placed on the grave of their loved one or another fallen troop member, whether at Homelake or a cemetery of your choice. Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization, formed as an extension of the Arlington Wreath project. Morrill Worcester began this project in 1992 with the donation and placement of 5,000 Christmas wreaths in Arlington National Cemetery, which became an annual journey for him. This project spread to VA, national and state cemeteries, spurring the creation of Wreaths Across America. Worcester was unable to donate thousands of wreaths to each state, so he conceived the idea to send seven wreaths, one for each branch of the military as well as for POWs and MIAs to each state or participating military cemeteries. The Mission to Remember, Honor and Teach about the fallen who gave up their tomorrows
with family and loved ones so that we can enjoy our freedom, also to honor our armed forces who currently serve and place their-selves in harm’s way. By 2008 over 300 locations held wreathlaying ceremonies in every state, Puerto Rico and 24 overseas cemeteries. Over 100,000 wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves. Over 60,000 volunteers participated. Congress named the wreath laying, held annually on the second Saturday in December as “Wreaths Across America Day” at Arlington National Cemetery as well as veterans cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states, ceremonies at sea and 24 national ceremonies on foreign soil. This year’s ceremony will take place on Dec. 15. Volunteers who would like to help place the wreaths will meet at the Homelake Cemetery, 3749 Sherman Ave. in Monte Vista, at 9 a.m. The ceremony will take place once all the wreaths are placed, at approximately 10 a.m., to coincide with the Wreaths Across America official ceremony time.
Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell
Ken’s Service Center
719.657.2880 810 Grand Ave. Del Norte
Authorized Cooper Tire Dealer
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Winter on The Rio Grande
Winter 2018
C&TSRR conducting holiday toy, food drive
Children ride for free
ANTONITO—Once again, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is offering a special “Santa Train” to help make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need. The one-hour train rides are free for children and only $5 for adults (ages 12+) and will run Dec. 8 and 9 in Chama, N.M. and Dec. 15 and 16 in Antonito. A donation of a non-perishable food item or a new, boxed toy per person is requested. Last year, the railroad collected more than 5,500 pounds of food and 1,000 toys, which were all distributed in the San Luis Valley of Colorado and in Northern New Mexico. The highest and longest narrow gauge steam railroad in America is owned jointly by the states of Colorado and New Mexico with stations in Antonito, Colorado and Chama, N.M. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to experience the thrill of a steam locomotive during the beauty of winter, while also helping those in need in the community. The Chama departures will run to the Lobato Trestle and back while the Antonito departures will climb the foothills of the San The Santa Train will depart from Antonito on Dec. 15 and 16. Juan Mountains to the Ferguson Trestle and back. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit with children onboard and Santa’s elves will serve complimentary hot chocolate and cookies during the ride. Chama donations are distributed locally by the Chama Fire Department Toy Collection and the local Chama Valley Pantry operated by the Rio Arriba County Echo Food Bank. In Antonito, toys are distributed by the U.S. Marine Toys for Tots Foundation and food donations are distributed by the Antonito Food Bank. HOW TO BOOK: To make your reservation on the C&TSRR Christmas Trains, go to this website and click on the Christmas Train link or call the train depot at 888-286-2737. Train rides start at 10am, with the last train departing at 4pm. Ticketing will be available online starting November 1, 2018.
Photos by Roger Hogan
About the C&TSRR Built in 1880, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the longest and highest steam railroad in America and carried approximately 42,500 riders in 2018 on the most authentic steam railroad in the nation, traveling 64 miles across rugged mountain scenery between Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico, crossing the state borders 11 times. The railroad will begin regularly scheduled service with trains departing daily from both stations on May In 2017, the C&TSRR collected more than 5,500 pounds of food and 1,000 toys, which were all distributed in the San Luis Valley 25, 2019. and northern New Mexico.
Altitude sickness
When planning a trip to the San Luis Valley, keep in mind that much of the area sits above 7,800 ft. Symptoms of high altitude sickness include headache, lightheadedness, weakness, trouble sleeping and an upset stomach. These most often pass as your body adjusts. If you have confusion and difficulty breathing, even while resting, consult a Courtesy photo rest often and drink plenty of water. doctor immediately. Those with certain lung and heart problems Severe high altitude sickness can be treated are encouraged to consult their physician with doctor prescribed medications. A simple way to prevent altitude sickness before visiting the Valley. is to take traveling to a higher altitude slowly,
The Monte Vista Journal The Conejos County Citizen The Center Post-Dispatch The Mineral County Miner The South Fork Tines The Del Norte Prospector
Winter 2018
Winter on The Rio Grande
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Photos by Jefferson Geiger
Alamosa County’s large “Frozen” and Whoville inspired creation took first place in last Eryc and Eli Heredia donned outfits and took part during the first annual Rudolph Run in the spirit of the season. year’s event.
Parade lighting up downtown Alamosa Dec. 22
Rudolph Run at Cole Park ALAMOSA— Alamosa Round-UP’s Eighth Annual Christmas Light Parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 22, at 6 p.m. on Main Street in downtown Alamosa. Each year the floats get bigger and brighter. With over 30 floats and 2,500 people downtown, it is an event not to be missed! The judges booth will be set up in front of The San Luis Valley Brewing Co, with
announcements and festive Christmas music. The event is put on and sponsored by The Alamosa Round-UP Rodeo and its sponsors. It’s all about giving back and having some good old fashioned community fun. The Second Annual Round-UP Rudolph Run will kick off the fun day of holiday joy. The 5K Run and 2K walk will start and end in Cole Park. Folks are welcome
to dress up in their favorite Christmas costume or ugly Christmas sweater. Who knows, participants may even see Rudolph and Santa along the trail! The race kicks off at 11 a.m. This year’s Rudolph Run with the help of some sponsors will be donating proceeds to give gifts to children in the hospital over Christmas. This year is all about giving back, the 2018 Round-UP Rudolph Run’s
slogan is “I ran as a gift.” Sign up for the run at ImAthlete.com Sponsors of The Rudolph Run include: 1st Southwest Bank, Friday Health Plans, SLV Brewing, SLV Federal Bank, SLV Health, U.S. Tractor, CRC Farms, SLV Sports & Wellness, Honeycutt Rodeo and of course The Alamosa Round-UP. For more information, go online to alamosaroundup.com/XmasLights
City of Alamosa receives Starburst Award
ALAMOSA— The City of Alamosa recently received a Colorado Lottery Starburst Award for using Lottery proceeds to construct the Alamosa Multi-Use Facility and Ice Rink that serves a huge portion of the region. The new pavilion was made possible thanks to a $350,000 Lottery-funded grant from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO). The award was presented to Alamosa Mayor Ty Coleman during a Youth Hockey Association game on Nov. 17 at the new rink. “There is no doubt this project has positively impacted the San Luis Valley and increased our quality of life through an affordable recreation amenity that is drawing youth and adults from an entire region,” said Andy Rice, City of Alamosa parks recreation and library director. At the center of the multi-use facility is a 200-foot by 85-foot sized ice rink that is open during the late fall to spring months. Nearly 80 kids participate in the city’s youth hockey program and the venue sees up to 200 ice skaters during the weekend. The ice rink is the only refrigerated venue in the San Luis Valley. The facility also includes full locker rooms and event space, opening opportunities to host concerts, tournaments and other large events. The Colorado Lottery Starburst Awards recognize excellence in the use of Lottery proceeds in outdoor recreation and conservation that enhance a community’s environment. The Alamosa Multi-Use facility and Ice Rink at 2222 OId Sanford Road in Alamosa
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www.montevistajournal.com www.conejoscountycitizen.com www.centerpostdispatch.com www.mineralcountyminer.com www.southforktines.com www.delnorteprospector.com
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Winter 2018
Winter Events Calendar Dec. 7
DEL NORTE— Del Norte will officially welcome the holiday season on Friday, Dec. 7. The Del Norte Chamber of Commerce will host the 2018 Parade of Lights at 6 p.m. with the theme “Christmas on the Beach.” Immediately after the parade, the night sky light up with fireworks. Downtown merchants will also host their annual open house events from 5-8 p.m.
Dec. 7-8
ALAMOSA — “Holiday Bazaar 2018” will be held Friday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 8 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 709 4th St. in Alamosa. SOUTH FORK— The South Fork Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Town of South Fork and local businesses are getting ready to host the 15th Annual Winterfest Friday and Saturday, Dec. 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will once again be held at the Rio Grande Club located just outside of South Fork. To visit with Santa or do children’s crafts, stop by the community building on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call the South Fork Visitor’s Center at 719873-5512 for more information.
Dec. 7-9
CONEJOS COUNTY— The weekend of Dec. 7, 8 and 9 has been designated as this year’s Winter Fiesta for the oldest parish in Colorado, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. Festivities will start Friday evening on Dec. 7, with a gun salute by the local VFW Post, followed by a Frito pie gathering at the parish hall with entertainment by Semillas de la Tierra. The event will continue through Saturday and Sunday with the crowning of the 2018 Fiesta King and Queen, luncheon, dessert auction, bingo and raffle winners. Everyone is welcome. SAN LUIS VALLEY– The Valley Community Chorus and the SLV Community Band will perform their holiday concert, “Hopes and Dreams: Music of the Season” at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, in Moffat High School, Moffat and again at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9 in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Alamosa.
Members of Girl Scout Troop 35097 smile at the crowd during the 2017 Christmas Light Parade. parade will take place on Saturday Dec. 15 with Santa greeting boys and girls at Center’s Casa Blanca Park on Worth Street following the parade. Floats will line up at Second and Worth Streets at 12:30 p.m. The parade begins at 1 p.m. Floats, cars, wagons, ATVs – all are welcome. Prizes will be awarded for the floats with $100 for first place, $75 for second place and $50 for third place.
Dec. 15-16
ANTONITO—The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad’s special “Santa Train” will help make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need. The one-hour train rides is free for children and only $5 for adults (ages 12+) and will run Dec. 15 and 16 from Antonito. A donation of a non-perishable food item or a new, boxed toy per person is ALAMOSA — The Annual Villa Mall requested. HobbyTown Holiday Craft Fair will be held Saturday, Dec. 8, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3211 Main Street, Alamosa. Enjoy handcrafted gifts, jewelry, woodworking and local crafts CREEDE—Christmas Tree Walk & and visit local micro business people.Vendor Christmas Dinner – dates and location to be spaces are available. Spaces are allocated determined. based on date of reservation and payment. MONTE VISTA — Enjoy the “mall” Christmas experience without leaving the San Luis Valley. The One Stop Christmas Shop CRESTONE— The Pathway of Lights will event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ski Hi Complex, 2389 take place on the evening of Friday, Dec. Sherman Ave, Monte Vista. Get Christmas 21 from 4 -8 p.m. at the Baca Grande Golf shopping done in one spot. There will be tons Course, 67581 County Road T. The Pathway of local vendor booths including handmade of Lights is a dazzling display of lights that crafts, goodies, and direct sales. Santa will will include over 4,000 luminarias lighting the path of the Baca Grande Golf Course. also be there from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy sumptuous treats, hot cider and cocoa while you stroll amongst the warm glow of traditional luminarias. For more information, contact Fedrica Solano-Clark, Baca Grande ALAMOSA—Visit Santa at the Depot on POA- director of communications at 719Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be free activities for kids, hot 256-4171 or by email at communications@ chocolate, door prizes and of course plenty of bacapoa.org FORT GARLAND— Light up the darkest photo opportunities with Santa himself. Call Elizabeth at 589-9386 for more information. day of the year with all hopes and dreams for CENTER — This year’s Center Christmas tomorrow. Don’t miss the Winter Solstice
Dec. 8
TBA
Dec. 21
Dec. 15
Lantern Festival on Friday, Dec. 21 (2-7 p.m.) at the Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center. Enjoy music and entertainment throughout the afternoon, shop the holiday bizarre and gift shop, and bring the children for stories, crafts, and activities. Enjoy good food and friends while decorating a floating lantern. Then after sunset watch the night sky light up with the lantern launch. Tickets are $5 per person and include a floating lantern; children 10 and under are free.
Photo by Jefferson Geiger
is well known for. The tournament brings people from all over the southern U.S. to enjoy some good old hockey fun.
Jan. 25-27
ALAMOSA— Come check out the Rio Frio Ice Fest 2019 for some seriously cool fun! Professional ice sculptors come from all over to show off their ice carving talent. In addition, to the live ice sculpting, there’s snowman building, a scavenger hunt, 5k, the grub and pub, fire & ice bonfire and much more. Sunday will see the Fremont Haunt ALAMOSA— Alamosa Round-UP’s Eighth Parade and Fremont Haunt Races. Annual Christmas Light Parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 22, at 6 p.m. on Main Street in downtown Alamosa. The Second Annual Round-UP Rudolph Run will kick ALAMOSA—The fourth annual Rio Frio off the fun day of holiday joy. The 5K Run 5K will take place Saturday, Jan. 26 at 9 a.m.; and 2K walk will start and end in Cole Park, the entire race course is on the frozen Rio kicking off at 11 a.m. Grande River - as long as it is safe (alterations
Dec. 22
Jan. 26
Dec. 23
ALAMOSA— The Alamosa Live Music Association and La Puente present the Annual Holiday Sing-Along with Don Richmond at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 23 at Milagros Coffee House, Alamosa. Join in for an evening of traditional holiday carols and other holiday tunes. Admission is FREE, although it is suggested that attendees offer a donation of a non-perishable food for the food bank.
Dec. 31
CREEDE—The annual New Year’s Eve Dance will be held at the Elks Lodge in Creede.
Jan. 19-20
CREEDE— The Annual Golden Pick Hockey tournament will hit the ice Jan. 1920, offering a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the winter wonderland that Creede
to the course will be made to avoid any danger areas). The start/finish is on a wide spot in the river adjacent to Alamosa’s Cole Park. A wave start allows for more even distribution of weight on the ice and creates a colorful stream of people who first head downstream under the Highway 160 bridge only a short distance before turning back up toward the adoring fans who are jumping up and down from the excitement.
February, TBA
CREEDE— The Creede Cabin Fever Daze began small, but soon gained speed and has become an event many look forward to during those long lonely months in February. The 2019 event will be held in mid-February offering residents and visitors a plethora of activities to keep that pesky cabin fever at bay. Events include an ice sculpting contest, curling competition and much more. Winter residents sure know how to have a good time and are more than willing to take on visitors during the festivities.
Winter 2018
Winter on The Rio Grande
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Enjoy winter fun at the dunes
MOSCA—Visitors to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve always experience something wondrous, and wintertime is even more magical. Covered with snow in winter, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains rise above dunes up to 750 feet tall, extending for mile after mile—an ocean of sand. While the mountains are mostly inaccessible in the winter, the dunes welcome the intrepid. They also are home to herds of elk and other hardy creatures. Even humans venture there, carrying rock skis and snowboards, not to mention sleds, toboggans and snowshoes. The work of going up is amply rewarded by the trip down. Meanwhile, those given to ponder may wonder how the dunes came to be. They were formed over millennia, when streams and creeks flowing out of the mountains carried gravel and sand into shallow lakes on the Valley floor. When the lakes dried— they are now called “the dry lakes” —sand particles were carried away by action of the wind, piling them up against the mountainsides. The resulting dunes are the tallest in North America, covering more than 30 square miles. Winds that often top 40 miles an hour continually reshape crests of the tall dunes, while smaller dunes may “migrate” several feet in a week. “Escape dunes” at the edges offer fun for hikers, walkers and persons on horseback, as well as wandering wildlife. Then there’s the preserve. Through a cooperative effort among government agencies and private conservation groups, the purchase of private lands, identified as important to the protection of park resources, was completed on Sept. 13, 2004. A preserve established in 2000 comprises the original national monument, the vast Baca Ranch, and mountains east of the monument previously managed by the U.S. Forest Service to safeguard the small streams flowing into the area. All this means that visitors have access to a great diversity of habitats, beginning in the desert dunes, continuing up to the pinons, cottonwoods and aspens of the foothills, and arriving even higher at the spruce-fir forests and tundra of the summits of the Sangre de Cristos, with seven peaks over 13,000 feet. The region’s geology and biology make it a fascinating scene, unique among our national parks. Just down Colo. 150 to the south, Zapata Falls offers challenge to ice climbers, while the campgrounds host winter campers. It’s well worth the trip, even if one just gazes in awe at this spectacular place. From the east or north, take U.S. Highway 160 west from Walsenburg 59 miles to Colo. 150 and drive north 16 miles. From the south or west, take U.S. Highway 285 to Alamosa and drive 14 miles east to Colo. 150, continuing north to the monument and preserve. Facilities are limited as the mountains tuck
Snow-covered dunes make for a breath-taking site. themselves in for a long winter’s nap, so visitors are advised to bring food and beverages. Building fires at campsites is easy, but wood may also be scarce. In an area where temperatures often dip below zero, bundle up. Ski wear is good, but must often be worn over long, insulated under garments. Boots with good, gripping soles are essential, as are insulated gloves, heavy caps that cover the head and ears and ski masks to protect the face. The visitor center is open every day of the year except federal winter holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day). Hours are generally open 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily in summer months, and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. fall through spring. Call the Visitor Center at 719-378-6395 for exact hours during the time of visit.
Sand sledding/boarding Sand sledding or sandboarding can be fun with the right gear and conditions. Below are tips for an enjoyable and safe sledding or sandboarding experience at Great Sand Dunes. What Works? Yes: Sandboards and sand sleds are specifically made for sand, featuring a special design with extra slick base material and special wax; these work best for sliding in most conditions. No: Snow sleds, snowboards and skis only slide on very wet sand after rain or snow. The sand surface is usually dry. No: Cardboard, saucers, and soft plastic items don’t slide on sand; they will dig into or drag on the sand. No: Rectangles of rigid, ultra-slick plastic or masonite might slide, but are not safe: there is no way to control or steer them, and their angled edges could cause injuries. Rentals: The National Park Service does not rent sleds or sandboards; these may be rented or purchased at three retailers in the San Luis Valley. Sandboards and sand sleds are available yearround for rent or purchase at Kristi Mountain Sports, located 40 miles southwest of the Visitor Center, 719-589-9759. To protect the special slick material on the bottom of each board, Kristi will not rent them when the sand is frozen. Sand Dunes Swimming Pool and Recreation, located 32 miles west of the Visitor Center near Hooper, rents sandboards and sand sleds year Nearby Zapata Falls are frozen into a round. Follow the link or call 719-378-2807. The dramatic, glassy sculpture inside a deep facility is closed on Thursdays for pool cleaning. From April through mid-October, sandboards crevasse.
Photos courtesy of Patrick Myers/NPS
and sand sleds are available for rent at the Oasis Store just outside the park entrance. Hours vary; call 719-378-2222. To protect the special slick material on the bottom of each board, Oasis will not rent sleds when the sand is wet.
Zapata Falls One of the SLV’s most popular summertime hikes, Zapata Falls is also an amazing winter destination. Freezing winter temperatures turn the falls into a giant ice sculpture and ice climbing destination. Of course, the snow and ice make Photo courtesy of Carol Sperling/NPS the hike in treacherous, so be careful. (www. There is plenty of open space for backcountry skiing at the dunes. slvgo.com)
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Winter on The Rio Grande
Winter 2018
Wolf Creek opens early, enjoys fresh powder
WOLF CREEK — Mother Nature blanketed Wolf Creek Ski Area with a 20-inch storm in early October making it Wolf Creek’s second earliest opening ever and the first ski area in the country to open this season. As of Nov. 20 Wolf Creek had received 61″ of snow so far this season, bringing our all-natural snow depth to 25 inches at the midway. Conditions are powder, packed powder with excellent early season conditions. There has also been extensive grooming of much of the lower, middle, and upper-mountain. Eight lifts are currently operating seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.— including holidays. The Wolf Creek Lodge is open with a full lunch menu. Pathfinder Bar, the Continental Espresso Bar, Prospector and the Base Camp Lodges are all open as well. The Ski School is available for private and group lessons for both adults and children, including the Wolf Pup Program. The Ski Rental and Boarder Dome are open, as well as Treasure and Noel Sport Shops. The Nordic Trails are open and the Meadow Loop was last groomed and tilled on Nov. 11. For current conditions or additional information, visit www.WolfCreekSki.com or call 970-2645639.
Improvements this year at Wolf Creek include: A new high-speed detachable quad chairlift: The Charity Chair, formerly the Meadow Lift, is the 10th lift in Wolf Creek’s current lift system and will be the third lift in the spacious 900-acreAlberta Area. The new addition to the Wolf Creek Lift System is a Doppelmayr high-speed, detachable quad chairlift benefiting all ability levels of skiers and boarders. Beginner and intermediate skiers will have 55 acres of previously underutilized terrain available to them, whereas advanced skiers and riders coming from the Knife Ridge and Horseshoe Bowl area will have a convenient return connection to the Alberta and Elma Lifts. The change of name to Charity Chair is a salute to Charity Jane Pitcher, past owner of Wolf Creek Ski Area, wife of Kingsbury Pitcher and mother of current CEO, President and Area Manager Davey Pitcher. The bottom terminal of the Charity Chair is to the East of the Alberta Lift towards Alberta Lake; the top terminal is to the East of Tower Eight of the Alberta Lift. The Charity Chair will be over 2,200 feet in length with a vertical rise of 341 feet spanning over eight towers. • Purchase and implementation of department modules through the current RTP Point-of-Sale technology used in the ticket office: With the computerized system implemented and launched during the start of the 2017-18 ski season in the ticket office, all departments will now be on the same program. A mountain wide POS will offer guests a more fluid and efficient visit to Wolf Creek through RTP. The ski area has chosen to offer the highest level of security through RTP in all credit card transactions through an encrypted tokenization. • Finishing touches on the Lynx Lift and Interpretive Center: Guests enrolled in the First Day Beginner Ski Package will now have the option of purchasing lesson tickets and renting skis in the Interpretive Center, located behind the Sports Center. Offering Beginner Ski Packages and rentals in the Lynx Interpretive Center will simplify novice skiers’process of getting started for the day. Beginner ski packages purchased on the eStore will now be picked up at the Interpretive Center too. The Beginner Specials will also include access to the Charity Chair, making five beginner lifts available to those enrolled. The eStore will continue to offer all group lessons for any ability level, ages
Eight lifts are currently operating seven days a week at Wolf Creek Ski Area. five and older, including Beginner Specials, Wolf Affairs Conditions Series where a discounted lift Pups, Wolf Riders and Hot Shots. Private lessons ticket is paired with a two-hour morning lesson that will still need to be arranged through the ticket will highlight how best to ski and/or ride the current office or booked over the phone because of the conditions. Tuesday Turns is the second new series to be added to the clinic roster. Tuesday Turns will many details required. • Wolf Creek Ski Area is celebrating its first year also be a discounted lift and morning lesson combo anniversary of going solar! Wolf Creek has always that will take skiers and boarders of all abilities out been a leader in maintaining sustainable business on the mountain and refine their technique. • The highway leading to the ski area from Pagosa practices by purchasing renewable energy, using biodegradable oils in machinery and having water Springs has had its own improvements this summer. free restrooms. November 2018, Wolf Creek took a big step and became the first solar powered ski area. The first year anniversary of Wolf Creek having its main source of energy come from the Penitente Solar Project in the San Luis Valley is to be celebrated. The 2018-19 ski season will be the 13th season Wolf Creek has used a form of renewable energy year-round for 100 percent of the mountain. Wolf Creek continues to maintain its logging program in cooperation with the forest service to cut and clean dead beetle kill in an affordable manner. Another eco-friendly practice that will become standard is paperless Season Passes and rental forms. Thanks to the point-of-sale system, Season Pass Holders and guests renting equipment from either Rental Shop will now fill out Contracts and Liability Waivers online, eliminating the need for paper contracts. An option of uploading a photo to be used on season pass cards will also be available online for pass holders. Pass holders will continue to go directly to lifts and skip the Ticket Office. Colorado Search and Rescue cards will continue to be included in the purchase of a season pass for the sixth consecutive season. • Ski and snowboard clinics have been revamped for 2018-19! Wolf Creek will now offer two new clinics and has polished the existing ladies day to Ms. Mondays, and Baby Boomers’ clinics to Forever Young Ski and Board Clinics. The new clinics to debut for the ski season are a Current
Courtesy photos by Scott Smith/Wolf Creek Ski Area
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) spent over $9 million dollars to make major improvements to approximately 30 miles of road. US highway 160 improvements consist of a new surface overlay, upgrade guardrail and improvements to the scenic overlook hairpin, all on the West side of Wolf Creek Pass. CDOT’s summer improvements compl3ment their work of keeping Wolf Creek Pass well maintained in the winter months.
P OW ERED BY THE SUN First Solar Powered Ski Area Wolf Creek Ski Area, Colorado
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