Estes Park Winter Getaway Guide 2024

Photo by: Julie Webb

A warm winter welcome to the Winter Getaway issue

Welcome to Estes Park!

Winter is a wonderful time of year here. With snow blanketing Rocky Mountain National Park and no shortage of fun activities to enjoy, our picturesque mountain town is a wonderful place to make lasting memories with friends and family.

Snowshoeing and driving tours offer wonderful ways to experience Rocky Mountain National Park, as do backcountry skiing, splitboarding and ice climbing Hire a guide to take you out on these adventures or to teach you the basics After your adventure, rest up with a local beverage, delicious food or go shopping. Finish out your days by relaxing in front of a fire or in a hot tub in your cozy room. If you ask me, there is nothing better after a full day exploring our mountain town We also have an incredible

event coming up. With great excitement, I invite you to check out one of Estes Park’s newest festivals, Frozen Dead Guy Days! It is just around the corner on March 14-17, 2024. This quirky festival encompasses four days of fun anchored around the March 16 main event, which features a music lineup packed with 15 bands and the world-famous coffin races. Find more information on the festival in this guide and at FrozenDeadGuyDays com

Winter truly is a chance to experience a different side of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Thank you for spending time with us this season.

Warmest regards,

Sean Jurgens

Chair of the Board, Visit Estes Park

Happy Winter, readers! Now is the perfect time to

visit Estes Park and see all that the town has to offer There is a plethora of places to explore, and with Frozen Dead Guy Days fast on the horizon, the town will be filled with energy and excitement. This edition has much to gaze your eyes upon, including a history of the Stan-

ley Hotel, year-round events to keep you entertained, and information on the stacked line-up for Frozen Dead Guy Days We’re excited to see where the season leads us, so bundle up and enjoy this edition of Winter Getaway!

The Estes Park Trail-Gazette Team

DAWN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY

A view of Longs Peak and Keyboard of the Winds from the trail to Nymph Lake on a winter day in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Estes Park Health here to serve all of winter’s needs

By Wendy Rigby Estes Park Health

Estes Park Health is ready and able to treat any health and medical needs that arise in our mountain town in the winter season.

Flu Shots

It’s not too late to protect yourself against the flu. Estes Park Health has plenty of vaccines on hand for the community.

Urgent Care

For minor injuries, broken bones, respiratory illnesses, gastric issues or when you simply cannot get in to see your primary care physician for a health concern the Estes Park Health Urgent Care Center located at 420 Steamer Court, Unit 101, is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p m Saturdays and Sundays

Emergency Department

Located at Estes Park Health at 555 Prospect Avenue, our ED is ready to serve all your emergency care needs, from cardiac problems to trauma from accidents. COVID-19 testing: PCR COVID-19 tests are available Monday through Friday by appointment. Call 970-5862200 to schedule your test.

Primary, Medical and Surgical Care

The Physician Clinic at Estes Park Health provides primary care, as well as medical and surgical specialty

care, to our community and visitors alike. We care for men, women and children of all ages. Most of our providers live and work full-time in Estes Park. You don’t have to travel far for the care you need because we bring in specialists each month who provide medical services that are typically only provided in bigger cities. Our providers are committed to the highest-quality, patient-centered care possible to promote your health and well-being.

Physician Clinic Hours

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call: 970-5862200 for an appointment in the Physician Clinic. Providers are listed under their specialty

Masks are required in patient-care areas at Estes Park Health at all times.

IV nurses are frontline caregivers who are crucial to treating the patients at Estes Park Health Pictured are Abigail Starcevich, RN, BSN, Kate Fulton, RN, BSN, CCRN and Sean Dau, RN, BSN Many other people on our staff provide this important professional service to provide healing and hope.

COURTESY

The ultimate guide to 2024

By Visit Estes Park For the Trail-Gazette

Prepare for an exciting ride as we guide you through the astounding lineup of events set against the backdrop of Colorado’s breathtaking mountain landscapes Get the adrenaline pumping with events like the Estes Park Marathon and Half Marathon, or immerse in the rich musical rhythms at the Friends of Folk Festival Go full cowboy at the action-packed Rooftop Rodeo or marvel at twinkling holiday lights during Catch the Glow The list doesn’t end there. No matter what your interests are, our event calendar is sure to become your event calendar.

FOR THE COZY

Winter in Estes is a serene yet exciting time. Bundle up and get ready for a season filled with immersive holiday experiences, whiskey and so much snow filled fun!

CATCH THE GLOW SEASON

Nov. 18-Jan. 1

The “Catch the Glow” holiday season in this charming town is an enchanting experience that lasts for a full seven weeks, filled with non-stop festive celebrations. There are so many holiday inspired events awaiting you From the Holiday Makers Market to a Miracle pop-up bar to the beloved Catch the Glow parade, Estes Park for the holidays keeps getting better and better. Prepare to see Bond Park burst with life, especially during two special weekends packed with pure entertainment at Frosty Beer Fest and Glow in the Park Family Day and Sweets Stroll. From Nov. 18 to Jan. 1, you’re warmly invited to stroll through breathtaking light displays, take photos

in front of life-sized picture opportunities, and be captivated by the massive pole light tree that dazzles with synchronized light and music shows, putting on a mesmerizing performance every half-hour in the evenings!

WHISKEY WARM-UP March 2

Add some warmth to your winter with a splash of whiskey at W hiskey Warm-Up! This event invites you to sample the finest Colorado whiskeys, enjoy live music and explore vendor booths, all set against the stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop in the George Hix Riverside Plaza. Delight in scrumptious treats paired with your favorite whiskey and bring home a bottle (or two) to reminisce about your adventure. Remember the best part about this is that it’s an outdoor event, so come ready for some winter weather fun!

FOR THE UNUSUAL

While Estes Park is known for its small-town charm, it also comes with lots of spunk. These events are for the weird and the weird-adjacent, which pretty much means everyone!

FROZEN DEAD GUY DAYS March

This festival celebrates the story of Bredo Morstøl,

a Norwegian man who was cryogenically frozen From funky music and bone-chilling games, to offbeat contests and races, this weekend is an explosion of vibrant festivities. The quirky highlight? The iconic coffin races! Yes, you’ve read that correctly!

Join the crowds cheering on courageous teams of pallbearers as they race against the clock. And to close out the weekend, wear your wackiest clothes and take on the polar plunge, which is exactly what it sounds like!

BIGFOOT DAYS FESTIVAL April 19-20

Bigfoot is coming to Estes Park in April! Kickstart the two-day event with a ticketed

JOHN BERRY, VISIT ESTES PARK COURTESY PHOTO

No matter what your interests are, our event calendar is sure to become your event calendar.

Andy Frasco & The U.N. to headline

By Visit Estes Park

For the Trail-Gazette

Exciting news! Andy Frasco & The U.N. are coming to Saturday’s Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival on March 16.

Andy Frasco & The U.N. are globally recognized for their fusion of musical styles and a unique flair during live performances. Known for their audacious stage conduct and a kaleidoscope of musical tal-

ent, the band has established quite a reputation among their fans Their latest project, L’Optimist, demonstrates their commitment to keeping their sound fresh and engaging

Get ready for the infectious beats of the Frozen Dead Guy Days lineup by diving into our specially curated Spotify playlist! So turn up the volume and let the music take you on a pre-festival adventure.

VISIT ESTES PARK COURTESY

PHOTO

Andy Frasco & The U N are coming to Saturday’s Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival on March 16

Tickets on sale now for FDGD

By Visit Estes Park Special for Trail Gazette

Get ready for an evening you’ll remember for life and the next! The Royal Blue Ball is back at The Stanley Hotel on Friday, March 15 and new ticket options are now available!

This is your chance to experience a night where time freezes, with the coolest vibes ever and a Grandpa Bredo and Ice Queen lookalike contest! Plus, jam out to funk rock music by Here Come the Mummies and live-electronic trio Evanoff.

And due to popular demand, you can now snag a discounted Royal Blue Ball + Frozen Dead Guy Days combo ticket, offering fast pass expedited entry into the Saturday festival

For the most unforgettable experience, check out the Ultimate VIP Package, including early and expedited entry to both events, special service and a merch gift for guests of The Stanley Hotel.

The Royal Blue Ball is back at The Stanley Hotel on Friday, March 15and new ticket options are now available!

Already have your FDGD festival ticket? Single tickets to the Royal Blue Ball are available below.

For more information on FDGD and to buy tickets, visit FrozenDeadGuyDays. com.

VISIT ESTES PARK COURTESY PHOTO

Freeze has arrived with new museum, returning festival

By Dawn Wilson dwilson@ prairiemountainmedia com

The winter winds and icy temperatures in Estes Park have frozen more than just a few ponds and streams

After Frozen Dead Guy Days, the coolest festival in Colorado, moved to Estes Park in March 2023 following a 20year run in Nederland, event owner John Cullen wanted to take the macabre oddity to a new level.

The elevated height of appeal for the unique and quirky festival meant finding a way to safely and legally store a frozen man.

The resolution for the challenge came from Alcor Life Extension Foundation, a pioneering organization in the field of cryonics that currently has 222 preserved patients, and worked with Cullen to launch the International Cryonics Museum at The Stanley Hotel

Cullen, president of Grand Heritage Hotel Group and owner of The Stanley Hotel, always strives to take his business ventures to be the best they can be. Honoring the wishes of the Frozen Dead Guy’s family was no different.

“At The Stanley Hotel, we delve into the legacy of innovation, science and technology through our tours and offerings,” said Cullen. “These topics are intimately tied to F O Stanley and his groundbreaking contributions, such as the invention of the steam engine. Now, we proudly host the firstever International Cryonics Museum, seamlessly blending the past and future ”

For those unfamiliar with the history behind Frozen Dead Guy Days, let’s travel back to the late 1980s when the frozen dead guy, Grandpa

Bredo Morstoel, came to be Morstoel was born in Norway and passed away in 1989. His beloved grandson, Trygve Bauge, who moved to Nederland in 1980 and believed in cryonics, had his grandfather’s frozen body shipped to an institute in California before moving it again to Nederland. There, he placed the body in a metal box filled with dry ice under a Norwegian flag in a Tuff Shed as an improvised cryogenic container

According to Alcor’s website, “cryonics is the practice of preserving life by pausing the dying process using subfreezing temperatures with the intent of restoring good health with medical technology in the future ”

But Bauge’s visa expired in 1994 and he was deported back to Norway From more than 4,500 miles away, Bauge maintained his grandfather’s frozen corpse by hiring caretakers to fill his metal makeshift cryogenic sarcophagus with 1,200 pounds of dry ice twice a month

As word spread about a frozen man “living” in Nederland, locals thawed an idea to create a festival in his honor Started in 2002, that event, dubbed Frozen Dead Guy Days, grew to more than 20,000 attendees in 2022.

Due to the festival’s growing size and subsequent costs and safety issues, the town of Nederland put an end to 20 years of coffin races and polar plunges in November 2022.

That was until Cullen negotiated an opportunity to bring Frozen Dead Guy Days and Morstoel to Estes Park where he could provide him with an upgraded cryogenic tank. The new, stainless-steel pod, called a Dewar, is filled with liquid ni-

COURTESY PHOTO VISIT ESTES PARK

The new International Cryonics Museum at The Stanley Hotel houses information about cryonics, including the cryo chamber of the infamous Frozen Dead Guy, Bredo Morstoel, cryogeniclly frozen since his death in 1989.

Nine great things to do

By Dawn Wilson dwilson@ prairiemountainmedia com

Not everyone loves the cold. Fair enough. Winds can dry out the skin The cold, dry air can make that skin, and lips too, feel brittle as well. Layering up can make you feel like “a tick about to pop,” according to Ralphie in the holiday classic, “A Christmas Story.”

But there really is never bad weather, only bad preparation, so here are five things for anyone to enjoy this winter whether you like the outdoors or prefer to stay inside in warmer conditions.

Play indoors at the Estes Valley Community Center

Built in 2018, this award-winning recreation center caters to those who would rather avoid the snow and ice by staying indoors.

With a lap pool, kiddie pool, lazy river, indoor track, golf simulator, hot tub (well, okay that one is outside, but you can’t beat the views) and much more, there is sure to be something for anyone looking to stay active while avoiding the cold.

The center is open daily. Visit https://evrpd.colorado. gov/community-center for hours, class schedules and rates.

Climb at the Estes Park Mountain Shop

The most dedicated rock climbers like cooler weather. There is more friction with rocks, thus more grip, in cooler temperatures

But for those that are not into scrambling up 300-foot rock walls, would like to avoid the cold or want to try their hand at rock climbing, check out the climbing wall at the Estes Park Mountain Shop

With more than 4,500 square feet of climbing terrain plus bouldering opportunities, those avoiding the cold will sure to warm up to this adventurous sport.

For more information, visit https://www.estesparkmountainshop com/indoor-climbing-gym.

Take a class with Rocky Mountain Conservancy

For those always eager to set their brains on fire with more knowledge, and are

looking for something a little less strenuous for the rest of their body, a class about wildlife, geology, culture and more might be the answer.

Rocky Mountain Conservancy, the non-profit partner of Rocky Mountain National Park, is offering a free, biweekly program with RMNP staff and other experts. At 2 p.m. on the first and third Sunday of each month in January, February, March and April, RMC hosts a lecture about various things in

the park. Upcoming topics include Cultural Conflict and Cultural Solutions: Western versus Indigenous Perspectives at RMNP. Programs are held at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center auditorium.

For more infor mation and to register, visit https://w w w.eventbr ite. c o m / o / r o c k y - m o u ntain-conservancy-education-team-57646489383

Go

on an easy snowshoe hike

RMNP is loaded with trails for everyone from the novice hiker to the intrepid explorer looking for backcountry adventures.

In winter, when the trails become covered with feet of snow, venturing into the backcountry may not be top of everyone’s list of winter goals.

Instead, rent snowshoes in Estes Park and enjoy one of several easy trails to break in your snowshoeing skills.

In Estes Park, the 3.75-mile Lake Estes Trail is the easiest to access and enjoy. This paved trail loops around the lake and passes the parking

DAWN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY

A winter scene at Sprague Lake on a cold morning in Rocky Mountain National Park.

COURTESY PHOTO EVRPD

An aerial view of the new leisure pool at the Estes Valley Community Center

The ultimate guide in 2024

By Visit Estes Park

For the Trail-Gazette

Feel the winter chill in the air? It’s that time of the year again to grab your ice picks and dancing boots because Frozen Dead Guy Days is back! This ultimate guide will walk you through the thrilling festivities taking place across Estes Park from March 14 to March 17, all anchored around the infamous Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival on Saturday, March 16, at the Estes Park Events Complex.

A WHOLE WEEKEND OF FROSTY FUN

Zombie Bar Crawl (March 14): Kick off the weekend by dressing in your best zombie garb and joining the Zombie Bar Crawl, exploring the craft beverage scene in Estes Park.

Royal Blue Ball (March 15): Exclusive to The Stanley Hotel guests, the Royal Blue Ball is the ultimate kickoff event with live music from Here Comes the Mummies, mind-blowing performances, and more.

Icebreaker Kickoff & Frozen Sweets Stroll (March 15): Join the Icebreaker Kickoff event at Bond Park and indulge in the Frozen Sweets Stroll in downtown Estes Park. More info to come!

All this leads up to the famous festival on Saturday, March 16, at the Estes Park Events Complex, followed by a Sunday filled with brunches, bands and polar plunges

MAIN EVENT AT ESTES PARK EVENTS COMPLEX March 16

Get ready for the epic Frozen Dead Guy Days featuring 15 bands including three major headliners across three stages, world-famous coffin races, frozen games sponsored by local businesses, and a whole lot of food and drinks. Get your tickets to Saturday’s

events and learn more about everything we have in store for you at frozendeadguydays. com

ROCK OUT WITH THE COOLEST BEATS

Immerse yourself in the pulsating live music lineup featuring renowned bands such as Andy Frasco and the U.N., Yonder Mountain String Band, Spafford, Deadphish Orchestra, and many more Check out the full lineup at https://frozendeadguydays. com/artists/.

COFFIN RACES YOU WON’T FORGET

Experience the high-octane thrills of the world-famous Coffin Races as teams fearlessly race across a frozen obstacle course in homemade coffins. Interested in joining the action? Register your coffin racing team online

SIP AND SHUFFLE AT THE BANDS AND BLOODIES BRUNCH

March 17

Cure your Frozen Dead

Guy Days hangover with a spirited feast and live tunes at the Bands and Bloodies Brunch Numerous restaurants throughout town will be offering brunch menus accompanied by live music Learn more about the brunch experience https://www.visitestespark.com/events-calendar/frozen-dead-guy-days/ bands-bloodys-brunch/. More info to come!

POLAR PLUNGE

March

17

Dress up in your craziest costume and take a frigid plunge into the frozen pond at Coffee on the Rocks. Learn more about taking the plunge online.

LODGING PACKAGES

Explore special lodging offers for Frozen Dead Guy Days 2024, including discounted rates and festival tickets included with your stay. Check into the Trailborn Rocky Mountains for a stay at Estes Park’s newest lodging option! Your FDGD stay will include tickets to the festival as well as access to the exclu-

sive geodesic ice caves experience featuring handcrafted ice cocktails from Dry Land Distillers! Book a beautiful cabin at Rams Horn Village Resort with their Don’t Wake the Dead Two-Night Special and receive 20 percent off your FDGD stay!

VISIT GRANDPA BREDO AT THE CRYONICS MUSEUM

Don’t leave town without paying a visit to Grandpa Bredo in his new home at the first-ever public Cryonics Museum inside the Ice House at The Stanley Hotel. Immerse yourself in the science of Cryonics and learn the full story behind Grand Bredo. Book your tour https://www.stanleyhotel.com/fdgtour.html.

Frozen Dead Guy Days is no ordinary festival, it’s a mix of quirky races, live entertainment, and blood-pumping activities. Bundle up, gather your friends, and make Frozen Dead Guy Days 2024 the most unforgettable yet! Secure your tickets at frozendeadguydays. com before they’re gone!

JOHN BERRY, VISIT ESTES PARK COURTESY PHOTO

Don’t leave town without paying a visit to Grandpa Bredo in his new home at the first public Cryonics Museum inside the Ice House at The Stanley Hotel

Spotlight: Nature Workshops

Educational Nature Workshops every other week starting

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail com

At the YMCA of the Rockies there are all kinds of things to do, no matter the season! Be sure to register ahead of time for the summer educational Nature Workshops, which cater to adult learners, providing an engaging and hands-on approach to exploring the wonders of the natural world in the beautiful setting of the Rocky Mountains.

Upcoming Workshops Include:

• June 2-4 Colorado Life Zones

Nine

FROM PAGE 9

garage, plentiful views, Wapiti Meadows, the marina and the bird sanctuary. With multiple access points, the trail can be broken up into smaller segments as well.

In RMNP, head out to one of three alpine lake loops, each less than a mile and with minimal elevation gain. Lily Lake, located south of Estes Park on Colorado Highway 7, includes views of Twin Sisters and Longs Peak and only gains 29 feet along the loop. Sprague Lake, located about halfway to Bear Lake along Bear Lake Road, has the lowest elevation and elevation gain of the three hikes, starting at 8,690 feet and only rising 22 feet. The third lake is Bear Lake, located at the end of Bear Lake Road. This is the highest of the three lakes at 9,475 feet but has views of Hallett Peak, Longs Peak and Keyboard of the Winds

By Steve Johnson: Spend time in each local life zone gaining insights and discovering connections between plants, animals, geology, and climate.

• June 19 -21 Birds of Habitat

By Debbie Bangs: Gain foundational knowledge about the birds that are found in the montane through alpine tundra life zones in the spring and summer seasons.

• July 8-10 Rocky Mountain Wildflowers

By Virginia Kent: Locate and learn about the many wildflowers in Rocky Mountain National Park.

• July 22-24 Geology of Rocky Mountain National Park

By Harvey Haines: Explore the geology of Rocky Mountain National Park learning

how and when the mountains were formed

• Aug. 4-6 On The Trails

By Steve Johnson: Awaken your curiosity and experience some of the lesser known trails in and around Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Aug. 12-14 History of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Estes Park Area

By Larry Schneider: Learn about the players and events that defined the area that is now Estes Park, YMCA of the Rockies, and Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Sept. 29- Oct. 1 Elk Ecology

By Steve Johnson: Fall is the time for elk to be in rut. Join us as we look into the amazing world of the Wapati (elk), in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Snowshoes can be rented at the Estes Park Mountain Shop, Kirk’s Flyshop and Scot’s Sporting Goods

Go sledding in RMNP

There is only one place in RMNP where sledding is permitted Hidden Valley. Once home to the Hidden Valley Ski Area, this forested bowl below Trail Ridge Road still has some of the old ski trails through the forest Sledding,

• Oct. 7-9 Astronomy at the YMCA

By Dr. Robert Potter and Dr. Jim Gallt: Participants will learn about the history of astronomy, how to observe the sky, the solar system, stars and constellations, and the basics of stellar birth and death, including white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes.

• Nov 25-26 Winter Native Plants and Nature Wreaths

By Megan Bach and Debbie Bangs: Join us to learn why native grasses are important, how to identify grasses and winter shrubs, and master skill of creating decorative wreaths just in time for the holidays

Questions? Call the Activity Office at 970-586-3341, ext. 1104.

tain-national-park.htm.

Venture onto the golf course with crosscountry skis

There are no Nordic, or cross-country, ski centers in Estes Park but when the snow falls and blankets the Estes Park 18-Hole Golf Course, it becomes one of the best places in the area to take on this tremendous workout.

however, is limited to the designated snow play area near the warming hut, the only place in the park with flush toilets and heat in the winter (best local tip you will ever learn about)

Although there is no fee to play on the sledding hill, you must bring your own sled and there is an entry fee for RMNP.

For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/sledding-in-rocky-moun-

With rolling hills and long straightaways perfect for cross-country skiing, this destination between Fish Creek Road and Colorado Highway 7 beckons anyone with skis after a fresh snowfall. The views aren’t too shabby either, with scenes of Lumpy Ridge to the north and Longs Peak to the south. You might even have an elk or two join you on the course.

The golf course, located at 1480 Golf Course Road, is closed for golf through midApril and is free to use for skiing. The course staff asks that you not ski across greens

TIM MOSIER TRAIL-GAZETTE

The Epic Mountain Climbing Gym inside of the Estes Park Mountain Shop on Big Thompson Avenue

Keeping lively pulse at The Stanley

By William Oster woster @prairiemountainmedia.com

With warm weather long gone, snow begging to pile up and community events decelerating, Estes Park is entering into what one could call its hibernation period The time of year when town activity slows to a loll and the only tourists to be found are here to admire the snow-covered Rockies.

If you’re a year-round resident of Estes, however, don’t let the boredom take over just yet, for The Stanley has events to keep people enthralled through the new year. Here is your guide to finding the ones that captivate your interests.

217 Wine Bar

Located in the elegant, historic music room inside of The Stanley’s main lodge, visitors of the 217 Wine Bar can sip from some of the finest wine selections in Estes Park while enjoying a frontrow view of the snow-capped Rocky Mountain backdrop.

When attending the new spot, guests will have more than 50 wines to choose from while snacking on assorted charcuterie offerings prepared by the house Michelin Star chef in one of the many conversational areas that allow for a quaint, communal atmosphere.

217’s maître d’ regales his listeners with stories about the venerable old hotel and wine-parodied show tunes. A magnificent Steinway and Sons concert grand piano beneath a gold-leafed dome stands at the ready to fill the entire room with music

Whiskey Bar and Lounge

Any guests craving more of a stiff beverage will have to travel just across the main lobby to the Whiskey Bar and Lounge at the Cascades

Restaurant. With more than 1,200 selection to choose from, the bar boasts the largest variety of whiskeys and single malt scotches in Colorado inclusions that earned it a spot on Men’s Journal’s top ten list of “Best hotel whiskey collections to sample around the world,” this past December. Whether sipping on the house favorite 291 smoked old fashioned or the signature redrum punch, this spot provides the perfect remedy for melting away that Colorado cold

The Vault

Looking for something more exclusive in your whiskey tasting? Look no further than The Vault. Located on the lower level of the main lodge, The Vault will be any whiskey connoisseur’s dream come true with a room full of single barrels and special bottles a majority of which are one of less than 200 in existence The Vault offers private, curated tastings, exploring interesting whiskey history, classifications and tips on the best way to enjoy the drink.

When it comes to spooky allure, The Stanley’s reputation precedes it. Made infamous for being the inspiration behind Stephen King’s thrilling novel and film adaptation, The Shining, the past spirits that roam the hotel halls are rumored to be as active as the live ones.

Spirited Night Tour

Guests have the opportunity to chase this rumored afterlife in the spirited night tours offered after dark. In this chilling attraction, tour members are led through the dark edges of the hotel by a knowledgeable storyteller to learn the history of the establishment and see if they can’t come away with some spirited encounters of their own

MATTHEW POUST ESTES PARK TRAIL-GAZETTE

The middle conversation section is seen at the 217Wine Bar

Reel Mountain Theater to close

What can be done to save it?

By William Oster woster @prairiemountainmedia com

Movie theaters are the perfect escape; a chance to immerse yourself into the sound and images of a new, enchanting world to distract from the routine and repetitiveness of our own But with the news of Reel Mountain Theater planning to close its doors in August, that escape may no longer be an option for many Estes Park residents, and potential memories and history nowhere to be found

Jenna MacGregor, the owner of the family-run Reel Mountain Theater, has known her passion for movies ever since her grandparents, Ola and Mickey Stanger, spoke with her about their time in the industry.

“They owned the Windsor Theater in Windsor, Colorado, and then they owned the Evans Drive-In in Denver,” MacGregor said. “Then they bought the Lake Estes Drive-In and then they started running the Historic Park Theatre That’s sort of our family’s theatrical history.”

Today, MacGregor owns and manages two theaters, the Historic Park Theatre and Reel Mountain Theater, alongside her mother, Sharon Seely. She purchased Reel Mountain Theater five years ago in June of 2019, less than a year before the start of the pandemic. Initially, she thought this was the perfect time to purchase a theater, and saw increased revenue from what the previous owners saw.

“We were doing really well,” she said. “Then the pandemic hit in March 2020 and literally shut us down ”

“We were doing really well. Then the pandemic hit in March 2020 and literally shut us down. ... My gross in 2020 was less than my rent amount”

Jenna MacGregor, owner od Reel Mountain Theater

The pandemic sent a shockwave worldwide, causing several businesses to shut down, with MacGregor’s no exception. With MacGregor signing a five-year lease on Reel Mountain Theater, she’s not making enough to make ends meet and keep the theater open.

“My gross in 2020 was less than my rent amount,” she said.

Outside of the pandemic, people have been slow to return to the theater in Estes Park. MacGregor sees a few reasons for this streaming consumption increased and “went crazy,” ticket prices have increased (although

ends meet, MacGregor would need around 1,000 members to sign up for a monthly movie theater membership at Reel Mountain Theater.

“Right now, we’re less than 200,” she said. “1,000 members would guarantee that I can pay my expenses for the month.”

In addition to high rental costs, there are the typical expenses MacGregor has to meet to keep her theater afloat consistently trying to keep expenses down and taxes being the two biggest but she still holds on to the love she has for the business as a motivator.

MacGregor got into the movie business because she saw the passion she saw her grandparents had in the industry. She remembers being pulled out of school and taken to movie screenings, watching then later dissecting everything with her grandfather

“I was blessed in the fact that I had an amazing childhood,” she said

She knows the industry isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, but constantly reminds herself that it’s a fun industry to be a part of.

comparatively to big theater chains, MacGregor’s monthly subscription amount is low) and the average age of residents in Estes may be a factor. But financially, one of the other biggest hurdles is the charges from movie companies for theaters to screen movies have risen sharply.

“My highest percentage that I had ever been charged on a movie prior to COVID was 62% from Disney on ‘Avengers: Endgame,’” she said. “62% is average now. I pay anywhere between 50% to 75% of every movie ticket now. It’s a huge increase in the amount they’re asking for.”

Today, in order to make

“It’s exciting,” she said. “When you have a packed house, it’s awesome and it makes you feel good. And when you hear people laughing, having people be able to enjoy something, whether it’s being frightened with a horror film or laughing because it’s a comedy…it gives me such great joy.”

The Historic Park Theatre will remain open, but for now, Reel Mountain Theater is expected to shutter its doors It’ll take hundreds of Estes residents to change the course of the theater, but MacGregor still has a glimmer of hope.

“We have a long time between now and the end of August,” she said

REEL MOUNTAIN THEATRE COURTESY PHOTO

The lobby of the Reel Mountain Theater is pictured in Estes Park.

History of industry in Estes Park

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail com

Estes Park has developed a strong craft beverage community, now with four micro-breweries, three distilleries, and one winery. It all started back in 1994 when Estes Park Brewery first opened.

Local entrepreneur and businessman Ed Grueff was the original owner who converted the former gym into the brewery. When asked about the experience of opening the first Brewery in town, he tells us, “It was exciting, but the biggest key was to educate people about micro-brew beer. Most people were not familiar with it.”

Because of that they decided to invest in Raspberry Wheat and some lighter beers to get people introduced to microbrews. From there, demand kept growing, and the city began to rethink its regulations in regards to alcohol production.

A change to city code in 2014 allowed microbreweries and micro-distilleries to operate without being attached to a restaurant. There was already an existing exemption for Snowy Peak Winery in place since 2005, but this change allowed for accelerated development.

After the change in code regulation, which was approved unanimously by the town board in July of 2014, the first establishment to open was Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. in July of 2015. Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. stands alone on Hwy. 7, the former gas station is now a comfortable two-room lounge with great views of Lake Estes from the patio Then in 2023, owner Nick Smith, opened a tasting room just off downtown Elkhorn’s west arm, on Cleave St. called the Publick House.

Then next brewery to be established in Estes Park

was Rock Cut Brewing Co. opened on Aug. 29 a month after Lumpy Ridge Brewing. Rock Cut Brewery is located right on the river in front of the iconic Fun City slides, and is named after the famous turn in Rocky Mountain National Park that overlooks the steepest valley on Trail Ridge Road.

Then on July 4, 2016, the

first micro-distillery, Elkins Distillery Co., opened specializing in Whisky. For the first 5 years Elkins Distillery manufactured at their location on Hwy. 34, but after a fire the operations had to be moved 2022, going by the name of Estes Park Distillery, the company is better known as Full Throttle Saloon, which is a national

brand that has micro-distilleries all over the United States In Estes Park they have two locations, one in the refurbished and combined Bob and Tony’s Pizza/ High Country Gifts shops plus up the street on Moraine, right next to The Barrel

A few minutes drive down Moraine Avenue is the way to reach the newest craft beverage producer in town, the Hogback Distillery, which opened in July 2023. Hogback Distillery is originally from the Boulder region, while the owner Graeme Wallace, is native of Scottland. Wallace has brought highland distilling practices to Colorado’s rocky mountains, try them out to taste the difference in highland flavors.

Estes Park’s wandering trails make for a full craft beverage tour. Check them all out, but please take your time and drink responsibly

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Estes Park Brewery offers 12different craft brews.

JOHN BERRY COURTESY PHOTO

Avant Garde Aleworks will be on the long list of the local breweries offering delicious local craft beers at this year’s The Glow in the Park Frosty Beer Fest

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Lumpy Ridge Brewery’s Frozen Dead Guy Days pale ale is one of the special food and beverage offerings that festival goers will be able to sample

Mustang Mountain Coaster

Ride will be open every day in March, except Wednesdays

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail com

Are you looking for a fun way to kick off 2024? Head up to Estes Park where you’ll see some of America’s most spectacular scenic beauty and what better way to experience it than on a ride down the Mustang Mountain Coaster!

Stanley

Sleepytime Gorilla Museum

Step into the world of the bizarre and captivating as Sleepytime Gorilla Museum takes over The Stanley Hotel on March 8 & 9, 2024, for a ‘minifest made manifest’ like no other! Located in the eerie and mystic backdrop of The Stanley Hotel, this promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience.

On March 8th, the main attraction of the evening is none other than the enigmatic Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, with a special guest performances by Dreadnought and Surplus 1980 with Moe Staiano Then, on March 9th, immerse yourself in the world of Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, accompanied by special guests In The Company of Serpent’s and Playground Ensemble featuring music from ‘The Shining’ Here’s just a taste of what awaits:

Instrument Petting Zoo: Get up close and personal with the instruments that create the magic. Try your hand at creating spine-tin-

As the weather gets warmer the Mustang Mountain Coaster in Estes Park stays open longer. Staring in March, the coaster is going to be rolling every day, except Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with extended hours on Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Don’t delay, go today, because during April the coaster will be closed Monday Thursday but in May it really will be open everyday! For full details visit the website at www.mustangmountaincoaster.com.

gling sounds and experience the music like never before.

The Last Human Being Himself: Encounter the enigmatic character from Sleepytime Gorilla Museum’s world and get a glimpse into a truly unique perspective on humanity.

Arts & Crafts Bazaar: Discover the artistry and craftsmanship that complements the band’s eccentric style. Explore and shop for oneof-a-kind creations that will transport you to another dimension

Donkey-Headed Adversary of Humanity: In the Stanley’s mysterious halls, stumble into a room and find yourself face to face with a donkey-headed creature, brimming with sass and intrigue An experience that’s both bewildering and exhilarating!

Prepare to be astonished, to be enthralled, and to be thoroughly mystified as Sleepytime Gorilla Museum orchestrates this unique event at The Stanley Hotel. It’s a minifest made manifest that you won’t want to miss!

Royal Blue Ball

Get ready for an evening you’ll remember for life and the next! The Royal Blue Ball is back at The Stanley Hotel on Friday, March 15 and new

ticket options are now available!

This is your chance to experience a night where time freezes, with the coolest vibes ever and a Grandpa Bredo and Ice Queen lookalike contest! Plus, jam out to funk rock music by Here Come the Mummies

And due to popular demand, you can now snag a discounted Royal Blue Ball + Frozen Dead Guy Days combo ticket, offering fast pass expedited entry into the Saturday festival.

For the most unforgettable experience, check out the Ultimate VIP Package, including early and expedited entry to both events, special service and a merch gift for guests of The Stanley Hotel.

Already have your FDGD festival ticket? Single tickets to the Royal Blue Ball are available here

Ben Bailey Comedy Show

Get ready to buckle up for a wild ride with Ben Bailey from Cash Cab, brought to you by Comedy Works Entertainment and Stanley Live!

Join us at The Stanley Hotel Concert Hall in Estes Park, CO on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm for a night of laughter you won’t forget With Bailey’s hi-

larious stand-up and antics, this isn’t your average comedy show it’s an adventure! Don’t miss out grab your tickets now and let’s make some memories.

Bailey’s comedic prowess extends beyond the cab, showcased in two Comedy Central specials: “Road Rage and Accidental Ornithology” (2011) and “Ben Bailey: Live and Uncensored” (2016). He’s graced top TV shows like “The Tonight Show,” “The Today Show,” and “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” along with a slew of other morning shows. In addition to his stand-up success, Bailey has made memorable appearances in TV series like “MADtv,” “30 Rock,” and “Law and Order SVU,” and in films including “Bad Parents” and “Don’t Shoot the Pharmacist.”

Catch Bailey live on his national tour at comedy clubs across the country (check cities and dates at therealbenbailey com), or enjoy his hilarious stand-up on his YouTube channel, “Ben Bailey Comedy” Don’t miss the chance to laugh along with one of comedy’s brightest stars!

For more information on entertainment at The Stanley Hotel, interested persons can go to https://www.stanleyhotel com/entertainment html

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The Mustang Mountain Coaster offers more than 2,000feet of twists and turns as it travels down the mountain

New management team takes helm

By Sarah Edge, Director of Digital Marketing

In a move aimed at revitalizing one of the region’s prominent hospitality establishments, Rocky Mountain Hotel and Conference Center has announced a change in ownership and management.

East Avenue (hotel owner/development), in collaboration with Vista Host (hotel management), has taken over the reins of the esteemed hotel, promising a fresh perspective and enhanced guest experiences

The transition comes as part of a strategic initiative to elevate the hotel’s standing within the industry and cater to the evolving needs of modern travelers. With years of combined expertise in hotel management and a track record of success, East Avenue and Vista Host are poised to bring innovative solutions and personalized services to Rocky Mountain Hotel.

“We are thrilled to be entrusted with the ownership of Rocky Mountain Hotel and Conference Center,” said Jus-

tin Mabey, CEO of East Avenue. “Our team is committed to upholding the hotel’s legacy of excellence while introducing new elements that will exceed the expectations of our guests such launching a new complimentary breakfast and kid-friendly amenities”.

The partnership between East Avenue and Vista Host signals a collaborative effort to enhance all aspects of the guest experience, from accommodation to amenities and event services. Plans for renovations and upgrades are already underway, with a focus on modernizing facilities and incorporating sustainable practices.

“We see tremendous potential in Rocky Mountain Hotel and Conference Center,” remarked Evan Studer, CEO of Vista Host.

“Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where guests can truly feel at home while enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the Rocky Mountains.”

In addition to physical enhancements, the new management team is dedicated to

fostering strong relationships within the local community and promoting tourism in the area. Collaborations with local businesses and organizations are in the pipeline, with initiatives aimed at showcasing the rich cultural heritage and outdoor attractions that define the region.

“We believe in the importance of being active participants in the communities we serve,” added Studer. “By working together with local stakeholders, we aim to contribute to the economic growth and vitality of the Rocky Mountain region ”

Rocky Mountain Hotel strategic location near the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park presents an unparalleled opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape. With easy access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife encounters, the hotel serves as an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in the Rockies.

Moreover, as the annual Frozen Dead Guy Days event approaches, excitement is

building within the community and among visitors alike. This quirky and beloved festival, held in nearby Nederland, celebrates the unique history and culture of the area with a lively array of activities, including coffin races, polar plunges, live music, and frosty beverages.

Rocky Mountain Hotel is poised to offer accommodations and convenient access for guests looking to partake in the festivities, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience during this one-of-akind event.

Experience the chilling thrills of Frozen Dead Guy Days by calling Rocky Mountain Hotel to book our FDG package which includes tickets to the music festivities.

As Rocky Mountain Hotel enters this new chapter under the stewardship of East Avenue and Vista Host, anticipation is high for the innovative initiatives and exceptional experiences that lie ahead. With a shared vision for excellence, the stage is set for the hotel to claim its position as a premier destination in the heart of the Rockies

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Rocky Mountain Hotel & Conference Center has announced a change in ownership and management East Avenue (hotel owner/ development), in collaboration with Vista Host (hotel management), has taken over the reins of the esteemed hotel, promising a fresh perspective and enhanced guest experiences

Explore Estes Valley in style

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail.com

What is it about Estes Park that is so extraordinary? One might say it is the natural beauty surrounding the mountain valley, much of it protected by Rocky Mountain National Park, maintained by the Park Rangers, and managed for wildlife preservation.

Estes Park has a robust history of growth and development too, the area was one of the first mountain towns in Colorado to supply electricity to their residents and continues to be powered by energy-efficient hydropower. The women in this area from those who homesteaded, managed ranches and opened hotels to Olympic athletes and world-class climbers have made notable impacts.

Learn about these facts and more from your host and driver, Bruce Davies, of Tour Estes Park. As the only tour company in Estes Park using an electric vehicle, Davies puts a spotlight on the importance of preservation in this unique region plus the car is silent as can be, a great feature for

Museum

FROM PAGE 8

trogen to preserve the body at -320 degrees Fahrenheit until the technology is developed to create a younger genetic twin of Bauge’s grandfather.

All of this technology, history and artifacts about cryostasis, including Morstoel’s long-term care Dewar, are on display in the new museum, which is located in the historic Ice House on The Stanley Hotel property. The small, wooden building, built in 1909, was used to store ice from the property’s adjourning pond before being con-

watching wildlife without disturbing them.

Reserve a tour online at www tourestespark com or call 303-260-8134. Depending on the tour, one can spend a few hours or venture out on multiple days for an in-depth experience. Tours are offered daily at 5:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 1 p m and 5 p m or call to schedule a custom time.

“What I tell people when we are getting ready to go is that this is your tour,” said Davies. “If you don’t want to hear about history, we can focus on finding wildlife That’s the

verted to a museum, which opened earlier this fall.

So, now with the unofficial but very cool grand marshal of Frozen Dead Guy Days resting peacefully in his new modern home, the threeday festival will continue its rebirth in Estes Park. The event, which started in 2002 and moved to Estes Park after Cullen purchased the festival in Dec. 2022 for $250,000, will be held on March 15-17, 2024 The event is produced by Visit Estes Park and The Stanley Hotel.

“Last year we honored Grandpa Bredo’s legacy by resurrecting the Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival in Estes Park,” said Cullen “This

best part about a private tour.”

Davies grew up in northern Colorado, and has lived in Estes Park for the past few decades. In his time here he has volunteered with the Estes Park Museum and Library giving presentations about town and local history; Davies has now been an independent guide for over ten years!

Davies, who talks passionately about nature and history with equal gusto, knows an impressive amount of information about projects in RMNP that are helping restore habitat, local history stretch-

year, we’re excited to give this year’s attendees the opportunity to visit Grandpa Bredo himself, at the new International Cryonics Museum located inside the Ice House at the Stanley Hotel.”

The highlights for the 2024 festival include:

• Coffin Races: Teams of “pallbearers” will race headto-head, through a course full of obstacles, mud, snow and drills in a grandstand setting (Additional registration required to participate.)

• The Blue Ball: This iconic FDGD event will be held at the historic Stanley Hotel and will feature live music, dancing, DJs and more.

• Polar Plunge: Dress up

ing back to when Native Americans roamed this area and the wildlife that live in the region. The depth of information Davies knows is what makes his tours so unique.

For example, the case of the beaver in RMNP is one tidbit of info that Davies likes to point out as he drives his clients through the park. After a substantial increase in elk and deer populations in RMNP caused the demise of willow and other riparian vegetation, beavers struggled to have enough healthy habitat. Without the beavers there weren’t dams, which caused the fish, frogs, otters and other animals, which rely on wetlands created behind beaver dams, to not have a place to stay. Davies explains how the use of exclosures is helping to repair these ecosystems.

Understanding the environment in a scientific way is important but it helps to also have a spiritual perspective. Davies relates to how Native Americans describe the spirit being in all things and how others describe our world as an interconnected being known simply as Gaia

in your craziest costume and take the plunge!

• Deadman Fashion Show: Come dressed in your finest “dead guy” duds to win prizes and mingle with your fellow attendees.

• Bands and Bloodys Brunch: Close out the frigidly fun weekend with live music and themed brunch menus at restaurants around town.

• Frozen Dead Guy Tours in the International Cryonics Museum are $20 per person and run daily from 10:20 a.m. to 8:20 p.m.

Tickets for Frozen Dead Guy Days go on sale Dec. 8.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https:// www stanleyhotel com

TOUR ESTES PARK COURTESY PHOTO

Reserve a tour online at www tourestespark com or call 303260-8134direct for Bruce Davies

History: Turning the hotel into a profitable business

By Dawn Wilson dwilson@ prairiemountainmedia.com

NOTE>> This is an installment in a series that examines the history of owners of The Stanley Hotel as the property approaches a transition of ownership in Mar. 2024.

In 1909, The Stanley Hotel was an opulent, modern hotel with amenities not found in other hotels of the time, especially in a remote mountain valley

Estes Park was a fledgling town, with only a few businesses and log cabins flanking dirt roads in the area that would eventually become downtown. The two roads into town what are now U.S. Highways 34 and 36 were rough at best, more comparable to what would today be described as primitive, four-wheel drive roads.

But that is how this mountain valley started its path to becoming one of the premier recreation destinations in the U S

The Stanley Hotel opened on June 22, 1909. At that time, it was the first hotel in the world to provide electricity throughout the building, a rarity even for the more established, high-end accommodations in places like New England, New York City, Chicago and New Orleans.

But for all its glory in design, appearance and accommodations, The Stanley Hotel struggled to make a profit Under several owners, including the hotel’s builder and namesake, F.O. Stanley, the hotel cost more to run than it collected in revenue. Under the management of a couple of owners after Stanley, it fell

into bankruptcy and dilapidated disrepair

All of that changed when an envelope was opened in April 1996 Inside that envelope was the bid John Cullen and his fellow partners at Grand Heritage Hotel Group submitted several months earlier. That bid in the third envelope opened during the bankruptcy auction wound up being the winning bid.

A hotel in Amsterdam

John Cullen spent the first few years of his life in Ohio.

When Cullen was five years old, his father, who was a business consultant, accepted a position in the Netherlands. The family, including John and his sister, mother and father, moved to the historic town of Laren, Holland.

This small, affluent town in the Amsterdam metropolitan district would become Cullen’s home for the next six months where he and his family lived in the historic Hotel Hamdorff.

While his mother would be

away from home picking up his sister from kindergarten, the hotel’s engineering team would watch Cullen.

These few individuals would become some of the most unintentionally influential people in carving out the path Cullen would follow for his career. In their care, he would learn Dutch, play with the engineers and hold the tools they used.

“Mom and dad asked me a long time ago, ‘How did you find a business plan going into historic hotels?’” said Cullen during a recent interview “Mom and dad, you were there!” Cullen enthusiastically remembered telling his parents, giving a big smile as he reflected on the subconscious path instilled in him by those few short months at that historic hotel in Europe

Believing he would follow a path as an architect or engineer, Cullen pursued physics in college, but macroeconomics also fascinated him. He quickly fell into working in real estate after college, tak-

ing a role at a real estate consulting firm as a Lotus 1-2-3 software engineer. This new platform, launched in 1983, was considered the most powerful spreadsheet software available.

“I became the fastest problem solver in the room,” said Cullen. “I don’t think I was getting paid $10 an hour at the firm I volunteered for every single travel assignment because I got a meal stipend. Literally, in my first year working for this firm, I had 200 plus days on the road in hotels, consulting on hotels and fixing hotels ”

Cullen was in his early 20s and confidently admits that even then he was good at running numbers to solve the problems of struggling hotels. He was quickly recruited by a consulting firm in Annapolis. While there, he received a $40,000 bonus (equivalent to about $84,000 today), which he used to start his first hotel company.

That company is now

DAWN WILSON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY PHOTO

The Stanley Hotel, one of the landmarks in Estes Park, was built in 1909

Grand Heritage Hotel Group, the company that owns The Stanley Hotel.

The envelope that changed everything

In the summer of 1995, Cullen’s company managed The Stanley Hotel in an attempt to help turn it around.

The property was in severe disrepair as the owner, Frank Normali, struggled to make money on the historic hotel. Bad investments and neglect left Normali struggling to maintain the property.

Three buildings had been condemned. The roof of the concert hall had a hole in it big enough to see the weather in the sky above. Eleven of the 14 buildings no longer had utilities supplied to them because they did not meet code

Cullen, at 30 years old, had invested about $100,000 into the property to help get it back on the right path

What he didn’t know was that the hotel was already in bankruptcy proceedings, and his investment in The Stanley Hotel would fall to the bottom of the priority list for repayment

When a judge ordered the bankruptcy to be changed from a Chapter 11 protection to a Chapter 7 liquidation because of the significant debt owed by the owner of the hotel, a bidding process commenced for the hotel.

Because of his knowledge of the hotel, Cullen’s general counsel suggested he put in a bid to buy the property out of bankruptcy court.

“My general counsel comes in and tells me it is as simple as cake to put in a bid,” said Cullen. “First of all, the phrase is as easy as pie, but no, I wasn’t going to put in a bid. But he finally cajoled me to submit a bid, saying just put in a joke bid. I said fine and you have already heard my number. I decided that was my bid. I put in a $3 14 million bid because that is pi.”

Cullen said he never thought he and his six partners in Grand Heritage Hotel Group would win the bidding with such a low amount so, after a delay in the auction date, they proceeded to purchase another hotel in San Francisco from the Four Seasons.

Then March 1996 rolled around and the envelopes with the bids were opened

“They open up the first bid; $10 million,” said Cullen. “Phew! I would get my $100,000 back ”

But the court rejected it because of a legal matter with the bidder

A second bid from a California investor with a collection of boutique hotels was also disqualified because it was not an all-cash offer, a requirement of the bankruptcy court.

Then the third envelope was opened revealing the pi number.

“Not only do I not get my $100,000 back but I have to raise the other $3 million in 29 days,” said Cullen. “Before, when we were looking at buying it, we had partner money available. We had spent it on the Four Seasons Clift Hotel. That was our down payment on the Clift.

After borrowing $3 million from an L.A. law firm to pay for the hotel, the partners had to come up with another $500,000 of equity.

“My share [of the bid] was $57,000,” said Cullen. “I had $51,000 in checking. I put the last $6000 on my Visa card.”

Yes, the managing partner of the Grand Heritage Hotel Group was now the proud owner of the once lavish but now dilapidated historic hotel in Estes Park thanks to the swipe of a credit card machine

Making a profit

In the state the hotel existed, tearing it down was a reasonable possibility. The Stanley Hotel and its adjoining buildings sat on 31 acres of prime Estes Park land, just a small portion of the original 160 acres when Stanley built the hotel 87 years earlier. Breaking up and selling

the land may have been a more logical and obvious decision for a business.

But Cullen saw potential in the property and had a vision for its future success. He was, after all, good at fixing hotels.

When reflecting on his first night staying at the hotel, he said, “I asked the one female [on the wait staff] her name was Mary Ann why are you the only person when you come walking by me that doesn’t make a jingly chainlike noise? She goes, ‘I can’t tell you because the owner won’t let me.’ Well, I am the owner at noon tomorrow so why don’t you tell me. She said, ‘I am the only one that’s here that’s not on prison work release ’”

According to Cullen, the previous owner had been working with the state of Colorado to employ prison workers to staff the hotel. The sound he asked her about was their old-style ankle bracelets that used chains. These men saved Normali money on hiring

staff while their employment helped the state by providing a halfway house for the men.

Cullen also reflected on other oddities that resulted from Normali’s financial struggles. The housekeeping staff used the bed linens as curtains at night, hung during evening turndown by hotel staff to block out light. A construction crew also discovered an old hot air balloon tether when building the Aspire Hotel and Spa, hastily covered when the safety of balloon rides in windy Estes Park proved a poor idea during Normali’s ownership

In the first year that Cullen owned the hotel, it only made $1.4 million in revenue and lost nearly $500,000

“We have turned a profit every year after that first year,” said Cullen Cullen, who has owned The Stanley Hotel longer than any other titleholder, is also the first owner to put the hotel in the black Cullen credits not only his

Events

FROM PAGE 5

BBQ dinner, where you’ll get the chance to rub shoulders with renowned Bigfoot enthusiasts. Further, immerse yourself in the free Bigfoot Days Festival on the following day, where the mysterious world of Bigfoot takes center stage. From live talks and appearances by Bigfoot TV celebrities to riveting games, music, crafts, and food, the festival offers an unforgettable experience for all.

FOR THE LEAF-PEEPERS

This is our favorite season for fun events in Estes Park because who doesn’t love a backdrop of yellow and gold leaves! Compete in the bugling contest at Elk Fest and dance among the gold aspens at Autumn Gold!

ESTES PARK ELK FEST

September/October

Estes Park just wouldn’t be Estes Park without its resident elk, and that’s why every year, this family-friendly festival throws a celebration during the Elk Rut Season perhaps the most active and fascinating times of year for our elk. From riveting live music and Native American dancing to engaging storytelling, educational sessions, and a fun 5k Rut Run, Elk Fest rolls out the red carpet for its elk.

AUTUMN GOLD FESTIVAL September

As if the fall colors weren’t reason enough to come to

History

FROM PAGE 21

ability to fix hotels for the success of The Stanley Hotel but also the timing of when he purchased the hotel.

In 1996, the internet was in its infancy. It would become a powerful tool for Cullen to

Estes, Autumn Gold is the cherry (aspen leaf?) on top! A festival of beer, brats and bands in Bond Park makes for a great setting for basking in the fall colors.

FOR THE ACTIVE

Take the movement that already comes with a mountain vacation to the next level by signing up for one of these challenging events.

with strollers and disabilities

ROCKY’S BACKYARD ULTRA Fall

ROOFTOP RODEO

July 5-10

Known as “The Rodeo with Altitude,” the Rooftop Rodeo is the rodeo held at the highest altitude in the United States Unlock your cowboy at events like bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, mutton busting, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing!

ESTES PARK MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON June

15-16

The Estes Park Marathon and Half Marathon are total Colorado classics! Forbes Magazine even gave them props, ranking them in the top 7 most scenic courses in the USA Bring the whole gang to Estes Park for a jampacked weekend of running and mountain fun. Enjoy that crisp mountain air, soak in those epic snow-covered peaks, cruise down to Estes Park valley, run through meadows, and wrap it all up at the track and field finish line.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HALF MARATHON

July 28-29

The Rocky Mountain Half Marathon, 5K, and Elk Double (Half Marathon + 5K) offer you the freedom to select your ideal adventure. This course promises a challenging yet picturesque run along paved roads. It starts and ends at Stanley Park near Lake Estes, ensuring you’re treated to breathtaking mountain views. These events are accessible to individuals

use and exploit for sharing information about the hotel.

And shortly before Cullen purchased the hotel, Denver opened its new international airport in Feb. 1995. Now the third busiest airport in the world, Denver International Airport and the growth along U.S. Interstate 25 make accessing Estes Park and its infamous hotel a piece of cake

Rocky’s Backyard Ultra is a 4.167 mile trail loop consisting of a small section of gravel road and single-track trails. This race runs on the YMCA of the Rockies campus bordering Rocky Mountain National Park The Backyard Ultra is a form of Ultra Trail race where runners must complete 4 167 miles in less than one hour, every hour, until only one runner remains to complete a lap.

FOR THE COMMUNITY SEEKERS

In Estes Park, we value belonging and creating places where we can truly be ourselves!

FIRST PEOPLES FESTIVAL Jan. 12-14

Immerse yourself in a captivating celebration of Indigenous culture at the First Peoples Festival! This festival is an intriguing blend of art, music, language, and oral traditions. The main event, scheduled for Jan 1214, 2024, is just the highlight of a series of captivating happenings including educational workshops, artwork displays, and interactive demonstrations.

PRIDE IN THE PARK June

Come show your pride at Performance Park this June! This annual family-friendly event is overf lowing with love, live bands, guest speakers and performances, food trucks and so much more!

A visit by Stephen King also gave Cullen a tale to tell about the hotel. After King’s 1974 stay at The Stanley Hotel, he was inspired to write “The Shining.” The book and subsequent movie and television series told a gripping horror story about a hotel caretaker and his family living at a haunted hotel during the off-season The Overlook

FOR THE MUSIC-LOVERS

Of course, almost every event in Estes Park comes with live music but here are a few completely dedicated to the song and dance.

SNOWYGRASS

July 12-14

Set in the stunning Stanley Park, get ready for 3 days at Snowygrass, an Estes Park tradition that showcases some of the area’s best roots, bluegrass and Americana singers, songwriters and performers. Bring your picnic blankets, camping chairs and maybe even your camper if you want the full experience of staying on-site.

FRIENDS OF FOLK FESTIVAL June

There is an inexplicable energy manifested at the Friends of Folk Festival, one that can only be attributed to the community’s love for local legend Dick Orleans. Dick Orleans’ legacy lives on in many ways, Friends of Folk Festival being one. This music-packed event is put on annually at Performance Park, a beautiful amphitheater backed up by a dramatic rock face. Come dance to local and national talent in late June

Hotel in the story is based on The Stanley Hotel.

And although Rocky Mountain National Park had been welcoming visitors since the early 20th century, it too gave the hotel a steady stream of customers. But pie, and pi, is what started this story of success at the historic hotel.

“The secret to success is not being secret,” said Cullen

Start planning at VisitEstesPark.com

There is so much to discover this winter in Estes Park The air is crisp and the smell of pines fills the air Whether you’re looking to get cozy by a fire, go on a snowshoe adventure or stroll a picturesque downtown, you can have it all and more with a winter trip to Estes Park.