Outdoor Sports Guide by Outdoor Sports Guide

WINTER 2016

fat

bike fever! Tips & Trails for Winter Riding

VOLUME 34 ISSUE 1

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WHAT’S INSIDE LATE WINTER 2016 VOL. 34 NO. 1 PUBLISHER // Dan Miller ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER // Paula Bell MANAGING EDITOR // Jenny Willden CIRCULATION MANAGER/OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR // Cynthia Bell Snow

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ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Melissa McGibbon, Molly Newman

FEATURE Becoming a Fat Biker My Journey & Why You Should Try It

CONTRIBUTORS // Nick Como, Allison Laypath, Alexa V. Morgan, Mark Petersen

By Mark Petersen

ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION MANAGER // Jackie Medina

HEALTH Fats: Friend or Foe?

GRAPHIC DESIGN // Leslie Hanna, Ken Magleby, Patrick Witmer

By Molly Newman

TRAVEL Inversion Diversions Where to Escape the Smog for a Day or Weekend

REGIONAL ADVERTISING SALES // 801-467-9419 Paula Bell, Karen Malan, Paul Nicholas NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES // Brook Gardner, Jeremy Solomon

By Nick Como

5 Utah Hot Springs to Warm Up In

TRAILSIDES The NEW Park City Skiing the Mega Resort

By Alexa V. Morgan

By Jenny Willden

// ARTICLES

Many of the activities covered in the Outdoor Sports Guide are action sports carrying significant risk of personal injury or death. Outdoor Sports Guide, including its writers, photographers and other staff and management, does not recommend that anyone participate in these sports unless they are supremely expert, knowledgeable about the risks and willing to personally assume all responsibility associated with those risks. Also, the views herein are those of the writers and do not

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STARTING LINE Editor’s Note Editor’s Note, Banff Film Festival, Wasatch Yeti Bash, Wasatch Powder Keg, Skinny Tire Fest, Salt Lake City Marathon, FitCon Utah, Endurance Sports Show RESORT REPORT Spring Events and Workshops By Jenny Willden

OFFICE ASSISTANT/DISTRIBUTION MANAGER // Jessica Snow Distribution Inquiries Call 801-467-9419 DISTRIBUTION // Paige Silva, Rick Springer, Jenny Willden

LAST WORD Winter in Utah's National Parks By Allison Laypath

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT // Jody Martin

CALENDAR

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/outdoorsportsguide Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/OSportsGuideMag Follow us on Instagram instagram.com/sportsguidemag

ON THE COVER

Photo caption: Corey and Kevin Kopischke earning their views of Mt. Timpanogos in American Fork canyon. Photo by Amy Kopischke.

necessarily reflect those of the magazine’s management or ownership. Outdoor Sports Guide welcomes story, art and photo contributions. We will consider, but assume no responsibility for, unsolicited proposals, manuscripts, art and photographs; all such material must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope or it will not be returned.

other rights for resale, republication, etc. Outdoor Sports Guide is not responsible for unsolicited contributions, lost or damaged photo material. Send contributions to Outdoor Sports Guide, c/o Mills Publishing, Inc., 772 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah 84106, 801.467.9419; email editor@ sportsguidemag.com. For advertising information please call 801.467.9419 or email info@sportsguidemag.com.

MILLS PUBLISHING, INC. retains reprint rights, including affiliated internet site reprints, but contributors retain all

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MARATHON | 1/2 MARATHON | 5K | RELAY 速

Funded in part by the San Diego Tourism Marketing District Corporation with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds.

#RNRSD

FROM THE EDITOR Mother Nature’s delivered plenty of Utah powder this winter sp far, but we’re still hoping for free refills until spring! Do you have an epic powder shot? We want to see it! Share your pow day pics with us on Instagram by tagging @sportsguidemag and #sportsguidemag. You’ll be entered to win a gift card to Porcupine Pub and Grille! Deadline to enter is March 31, 2016. This spring, keep your eye out for The Keeper issue—Utah’s biggest annual guide to races and events—featuring training guidance, nutrition tidbits, and our favorite Utah half marathons. Race directors: add your events and races to our digital and print calendar for FREE. Just visit sportsguidemag.com before March 5, 2016 to create your listing. Jenny Willden

Comments, feedback, or complaints? Email editor@sportsguidemag.com or send mail to 772 E. 3300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84106. Powder Day at Park City

OGDEN WINTER RACE CIRCUIT Sick of the dreadmill? Sign up for The GOAL Foundation’s Ogden Winter Race Circuit to stay fit and train for the Ogden Marathon. The circuit includes five races for $160 with distances that build throughout the season. 5K held February 6 at the Dee Events Center with 10K, 10 Miler, Half Marathon, and 30K to follow in late February, March, and April. Full schedule and details online. getoutandlive.org

BANFF FILM FESTIVAL Get inspired watching athletes climb, ski, hike, and defy gravity in this spectacular festival of outdoor films. Performances in Utah are scheduled for February and March 2015. Salt Lake's screenings are February 16–18 at Kingsbury Hall. Logan's are February 11–12 at Utah State University Recreation Center, Ogden's are February 13–14 at Peery's Egyptian Theater, and Moab's are March 7–8. Radical Reels showcases Banff’s most extreme, high-adrenaline films and screens in Salt Lake on Thursday, February 25 at Kingsbury Hall. Tickets available online. banffcentre.ca

WASATCH POWDER KEG Take in stunning views and torch calories as you test your endurance and backcountry ski skills in this intense three-day ski mountaineering race festival at Brighton Ski Resort on March 4–6. Multiple races offered: elite 10-mile race with five climbs totaling 6500', recreational 6.5-mile race with three climbs totaling 3,700', and Sunday 14-mile team competition with six climbs totaling 8,600’. Saturday events followed by barbecue, awards ceremony, and raffle. Backcountry clinics on Saturday from Utah Avalanche Center. wasatchpowderkeg.com

SKINNY TIRE FEST Experience Moab's pavement riding at this annual festival from March 12–15. Stay all weekend and enjoy four beautiful rides: through Arches National Park, two along the Colorado River, and one to Dead Horse Point and back. The rides are fully supported with sag wagons, bike mechanics, and aid stations along the way. The weekend also includes yoga, event expo, cowboy dinner with live music, and Banff Film Festival screenings. Choose from weekender package (Sat/ Sun) $150 or all four days for $190. skinnytireevents.com

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WASATCH YETI BASH From February 22–28, Ogden’s eclectic shops and galleries will have extended hours, restaurants will have taste-bud tingling specials, and bars will be playing live music. Expect meet-ups and winter yoga by AndShesDopeToo, an InstaMeet and Shop Hop by Historic 25th Street, a Winter Art Festival by Nurture the Creative Mind, a Fat Bike Expo by Visit Ogden, and more. That Saturday, February 27, visit Powder Mountain for USA Cycling Fat Bike National Championships and the US Snowshoe Championships. skiogden.com

JACKSON HOLE POLE PEDAL PADDLE Take a Wyoming road trip this March to participate in a fun Jackson race tradition held March 26, the second to last Saturday of skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The four-event race is open to individuals and teams and consists of four legs: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, bicycling, and boating. The event raises funds for the Jackson Hole Ski and Snowboard Club, a non-profit that provides affordable skiing and boarding programs to Jackson youth. jhskiclub.org

Endurance Sports Show Endurance athletes will love this show that brings together manufacturers, retailers, race directors, clubs, nonprofit organizations, coaches, and more from February 5–6 at the South Towne Expo Center in Sandy. The largest public endurance expo in the western U.S., it's a place where endurance athletes can learn about training and upcoming races, demo and purchase new gear, buy and sell gear at a bike and gear swap, and participate in FREE 5K, 10K, swimming, and cycling events organized by the show. endurancesportsshow.com

THE BACKCOUNTRY SOURCE Featuring a huge selection of top brands and the largest TELEMARK, TOURING and SKI MOUNTAINEERING GEAR and CLOTHING, the Black Diamond store is your local source for all things backcountry. • Wide selection of skis, boots, bindings, splitboards and accessories from top brands

FIS FREESTYLE WORLD CUP EVENT Watch as competitors race on runs used during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games at Deer Valley in Park City from February 3–6. Aerial, mogul, and dual mogul finals in the evenings are free to the public and followed by fireworks. FREE concert on Wednesday, February 3 on Main Street at 6:30 p.m. deervalley.com

• Technical and casual clothing for any weather conditions • Huge demo fleet and ski shop

For the best selection, friendly staff and local knowledge, visit the Black Diamond Store - your backcountry source.

BlackDiamondEquipment.com 2092 E 3900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84124 801-278-0283 Mon-Fri 10-7 | Sat 9-7 | Sun 11-5

Last year Utah Food Bank distributed 31.3 million meals to Utahns in need statewide. SALT LAKE CITY MARATHON Now is the time to sign up and start training for this popular race! Choose your distance: marathon, half marathon, 5K, kid’s K, 26.2-mile bike tour, and 10K skate. Quality of Life Expo held Friday, April 15. All races Saturday, April 16. The marathon, half marathon and bike tour all start at the Olympic Legacy Bridge at the University of Utah, site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Athlete Village. saltlakecitymarathon.com

FIT CON UTAH This unique fitness event coming to the South Towne Expo Center in Sandy on April 29–30 is dedicated to bringing the top fitness professionals and icons to improve fitness education in Utah. The event’s packed seminars, competitions, trainings, and keynote speeches from national and local fitness professionals. Bonus: live fitness classes from Shawn T, creator of Insanity. fitconutah.com [

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1 in 5 Utah kids are unsure where their next meal will come from

423,000 people are food insecure — 15% of Utah’s population

Go to UtahFoodBank.org today to donate, find food drop-off locations, or to find out more about volunteering.

Photo credit: Preston Roylance

Becoming a Fat Biker

Fat BIking on the North Ogden Divide

My Journey & Why You Should Try It By Mark Peterson

I came to fat biking from a unique place: bike commuting. For many years I commuted by bike year-round riding in rain, snow, and sun. There was a certain kind of grit developing in my character that compelled me to ride no matter what the weather was doing, and I liked that. But one day I was riding home from Salt Lake City to Ogden with a friend when an accident occurred. As a result, my carbon road bicycle was destroyed. I had no idea of the significance at the time, but this was the beginning of my new life. I had a choice to make: purchase a custom road bike or do the practical thing and buy a commuter-specific bicycle. At this point I remembered an ad I’d seen in a bicycling magazine for a fat bike. When I first saw it I remember thinking, “That would be

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the coolest thing in the world.” But who can spend that much money on a “Freakish” bike that seemed to have zero functionality in the real world? Despite these worries, I was drawn to fat biking. So I decided to explore this new genre and purchased a commuterspecific bicycle and a fat bike. LEARNING TO RIDE A FAT BIKE The first thing I noticed when riding my new fat bike was that the rolling resistance was not what I thought it would be. I expected an exaggerated mushy resistance equal with what the tires looked like, but I was pleasantly proven wrong. This fat bike rolled almost exactly like my full-suspension mountain bike. Next I noticed the feeling of confidence the bike was transmitting to me through its handling. It was quick, but not twitchy, and easily accepted my body

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language, making the bike handle just as well, if not better, than my mountain bike. Then there was the traction. Our local trails have loose rocks that make riding very technical. On my first ride I experienced the primary gift of fat bikes, traction! Sketchy terrain became easy to negotiate, allowing me to ride at a faster pace. Climbing loose, rocky sections of the trail and tight switchbacks became almost effortless. The increase in traction due to the fat tires at a relatively low pressure made braking a wonderful experience of control. I could ride faster into corners and brake effectively without skidding and go far faster than on my mountain bike. RIDING IN THE SNOW As the seasons changed, I felt a new excitement growing. I wanted

the back of the bike. This aspect impacts everything from traction to cornering. Once I learned these aspects and practiced them a bit it was time to experience the same trails I rode in the summer that were now covered in snow.

Photo credit: Preston Roylance

I knew that after a winter storm dumped over a foot of snow that the local trails would be packed down by snowshoers and hikers. This proved to be the perfect place to explore on my fat bike. Throughout the winter I explored more trails and found that anything packed is fair game to try to ride a fat bike on. It was the most fun winter I can remember, and it was then that I became a full fat bike convert, passionate about growing the community and getting others interested in the sport.

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North Ogden Divide

to see what a fat bike could do in the winter. I’d ridden in the snow ever since I was a kid, and those experiences were almost always comical, if not downright dangerous. Any extended rides on snow were on solidly packed trails or roads. You couldn’t ride very aggressively, and you had to stay vigilant about balance and direction of travel, and even then it was assured you would wreck at some point. But fat bikes were different. On my first snow ride I learned that this adventure machine was quite capable of conquering nearly everything I pointed it at, but was not invincible. In more than 8” of fresh snow a fat bike is still just a bicycle and you do get stuck. I also learned that momentum is key to winter fat bike riding, the more you keep up your momentum the easier you can ride. Body position is also important and differs for winter and summer riding. In winter, I found that my center of gravity moved towards

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Photo credit: Preston Roylance

FAT B I K E TIPS & TRICKS Biking on Antelope Island

READY TO JOIN THE FAT BIKING COMMUNITY? Visit Fat-Bike.com to find others who share a love for fat bikes. Here you can join this growing community and learn about fat biking events, best trails to ride, and more. Then go out and try it for yourself! Even hard-core road cyclists that proclaimed fat bikes a fad often change their minds after riding one. Visit sportsguidemag.com for a list of places to rent a fat bike locally. You can also watch pro and amateur fat bikers compete at USA Cycling Fat Bike National Championships on February 27, 2016 in Ogden. Amateurs ride 12 miles across Powder Mountain’s Hidden Lake terrain while pro and open class riders compete on over 18 miles of challenging terrain. TRAILS TO TRY NEAR OGDEN 1. Birdsong Trail from Rainbow Gardens on the east bench of Ogden. 2. Shoreline Trail at Pineview Reservoir.

3. Canal Road above Ogden to North Ogden. 4. Bonneville Shoreline Trail from the lower trailhead north over North Ogden. 5. Ogden Nordic Center in North Fork Park in Liberty. Nordic Trail Pass required. OTHER NORTHERN UTAH FAT BIKING TRAILS 1. Corner Canyon in Draper. Easy to moderate trails. 2. American Fork Canyon near Highland. Fat bike singletrack paradise. Take Ridge Trail 157 from Alpine Loop Summit Parking Lot, descend Pine Hollow or take Salamander Flat Trail back to road. 3. Lambert Park in Alpine. 14 miles of trails for beginners to upper intermediates. 4. Round Valley in Park City. Great trails for everyone. Quinn’s Junction is the most popular trailhead and is easily accessible from Highway 40. 5. Antelope Island State Park in Syracuse.

Mark Peterson is a fat biking enthusiast living and riding in Ogden, Utah.

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Tire Pressure – Tire pressure can make or break having a good time on a fat bike. Not to mention the performance side of things. For winter riding, start at 10-12 psi. Ride for a bit then drop the pressure a little, and repeat until you find the perfect pressure for your riding style. I run 5 psi in the winter. Body Position – Move your weight back slightly from your normal positioning. This helps with traction and keeps the front end from washing out. Momentum –A fat biker’s best friend! Keeping your momentum up plays a huge role when riding twisting, rolling terrain. Apparel – Layers, layers, layers. Be prepared for cold, but know you will warm up throughout the ride. Wear gear that allows you to vent efficiently. Ride Time –Ride late at night or early in the morning when the ground is frozen so you don’t wreck the trails with ruts. Be aware of the tracks you leave and be considerate of others. Lighting – Invest in a decent lighting system. Darkness comes fast on the trails in the winter, and they’re easier to follow if you can see them.

NFL BROOKE CERSOSIMO Beginning as an SUU gymnast, Brooke has flipped her passion for sports to a career with the NFL after discovering her passion for writing. Her work is now on the national field as a digital content producer in LosAngeles for the NFL.

SUU.EDU

©barkstudio / Dollar Photo Club

Fats: Friend or Foe? By Molly Newman Creamy, chewy, delicious, deadly. Fats of all kinds have been nutritional boogeymen for decades. However recent research suggests that, not only are fats important as part of a healthy diet, but they may have special value for active athletes. So before you drench your salad with another “lite” dressing—or pile your plate with crispy bacon—get the skinny on what fats can (and can’t) do for you. What is a Fat? Chemically speaking, fats are made up of groups of fatty acid chains attached to a central molecule of glycerol, a colorless sugar alcohol. While our bodies can synthesize some of these fatty acids from other food sources, two of them—linoleic acid and linolenic acid— are essential fatty acids that must be obtained directly from food. Fats play a variety of critical roles in the body, including aiding the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. (See “Micronutrients,

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Mega Benefits” in the October 2015 issue for more details.) They’re used to build cell membranes and to regulate blood pressure and immune response. They also provide concentrated source of energy, containing twice as many calories per gram as proteins or carbohydrates. It’s this energy-dense quality that has given them their bad rap as contributors to obesity. Good Fats, Bad Fats? Not all fats are created equal, however. Saturated fats are typically of animal origin and solid at room temperature. (Think butter, bacon fat, and coconut oil.) Mono- and polyunsaturated fats, such as olive oil and avocado, typically come from plant sources and are often liquid at room temperature. (The terms “saturated” and “unsaturated” refer to the kinds of chemical bonds in the fatty acid chains.) To further complicate the issue, trans fats are unsaturated fats that have been chemically hydrogenated to make them solid and shelf-stable. These “Frankenfats” are

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universally unhealthy and are being gradually phased out of the American food supply. In the meantime, avoid any food with hydrogenated oils listed among its ingredients. Saturated fat has long been tagged as a nutritional no-no, with increased consumption being linked to heart disease and stroke. While the American Heart Association still recommends limiting your intake of saturated fats, other researchers point to their potential benefits: • Stronger bones. Saturated fat is required for the effective incorporation of calcium into bone. Female and senior endurance athletes, who are at special risk of osteoporosis or bone fracture, should make sure to get plenty of saturated fat along with supplemental calcium. • Cardiovascular health. Sound counterintuitive? Higher saturated fat

intake is associated with higher HDL, or good cholesterol, numbers. One study showed that it also cuts levels of lipoprotein (a), a substance that increases the risk of heart disease.

on candy or pasta, versus how quickly a nicely marbled steak fills you up.) Additionally, fat-rich meals provide better regulation of blood sugar and insulin than either carbohydrate- or protein-rich foods. This regulation is critical for people with Type I or Type II diabetes, but even those without blood sugar issues can avoid the sugar rush/ crash cycle by including fatty foods with a meal.

• Brain boosting. The brain is made primarily of fat and cholesterol, and many important signaling mechanisms in the nervous system depend on saturated fats to work properly. While the jury is still out on how much saturated fat is too much, rest assured that you’re probably doing a good thing for yourself by spreading real butter in your toast and enjoying full-fat cream in your coffee.

Making Fats Work for You Glycogen, a form of carbohydrate stored in the liver and muscles, is the body’s

That Full Feeling One critical role of dietary fat is regulating satiety: the feeling that you’ve had enough to eat. Low-fat diets tend to be low in satiety as well, leading to overconsumption of high-carb snacks. (Think of how easy it is to binge

primary fuel during exercise. But these reserves are quickly depleted in endurance competition, and the result is the proverbial “hitting the wall.” Sports nutritionists have found that you can actually train your body to break down fat for fuel more efficiently. A 2009 study learned that this process is fostered by a high-protein, high-fat, lowcarb diet. Put its power to work for you by eating a fat-rich diet in the days and weeks leading up to a major event, then switch to high-carb foods just before the competition. You’ll burn fat as fuel more efficiently and spare your glycogen reserves for later in the race when you need them most.

Molly Newman lives in Portland, Oregon, where she hikes, walks, and runs whenever it isn’t raining—and often when it is. A contributor to Outdoor Sports Guide since 2009, she also hosts regular trivia nights and homeschools her two sons.

Never miss an episode of your favorite KUED and PBS Shows! Anywhere. Anytime. On Your Computer and Mobile Devices. video.kued.org

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Photo credit: Matt Crawley

Inversion Diversions

Snowbird Aerial Tram

Where to Escape the Smog for a Day or a Weekend By Nick Como

Most “dirty words” are four letters. Except one, at least to Salt Lakers: inversion. In an inversion, a dense layer of cold air is “stuck” under a layer of warm air. This warm layer acts like a lid, trapping cold air near the valley floor. This reversal of typical winter conditions (warm air in valley and colder air at higher elevations) causes a double whammy of bad news. First, high pressure means it’s not snowing in the mountains. For powderhounds, this is a bummer, though skiing groomers under blue skies in 40ºF temps is quite the solace! Second, colder air is trapped in valleys, such as the Salt Lake Valley, under the “lid” of an inversion. Auto exhaust, refinery emissions, and worse are trapped in this air, as the pollution cannot escape. Thankfully, we can.

Sandy to access to Cottonwoods. There’s ample space for your skis, snowboards or snowshoes aboard, and you can check email or social media on your way up the canyon. For Park City, the PC-SLC Connect bus, also operated by UTA, heads up Parley’s Canyon with stops at Canyons Village, Park City Resort, and Deer Valley. Keep in mind it’s an early start to catch this ride—the last bus departs before 7 a.m. If you want to leave an inefficient or 2WD vehicle at home, new this year is UberSki, which offers rides in vehicles with ski racks to the all four Cottonwood ski areas, as well as Park City and Ogden resorts. If it’s snowing and you don’t have a 4WD vehicle, this is your ride to the hill.

Day Trips The quickest escape is heading to higher ground in the Wasatch Mountains. Whether it be skiing or snowboarding at a local resort or cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails in the Cottonwood Canyons or Park City, you can breathe clean air just by increasing your elevation a few thousand feet. And you don’t even need to turn your engine on and add to the inversion to get there.

Weekend Getaways It may seem counter-productive, but inversion season is a great time for a road trip, provided you carpool and minimize adding emissions to already distasteful air. Team up with friends or couples and hit the road to explore resorts you don’t routinely visit: rent a cabin in the Huntsville area to explore Powder Mountain and Snowbasin or head south to Eagle Point on Brian Head and rent a large slopeside home.

Take TRAX (or a local bus) to one of several ski bus routes operated by UTA that originate downtown, in Midvale, or

Logistically, it helps to have a friend with a vehicle with a roof box. We’ve fit 10 people in two vehicles: a Prius that

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Image licensed by Ingram Image

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Spring Ahead If the temperatures at Wasatch ski resorts are in the 40s and 50s, there’s a good chance the mercury is climbing past 60°F in the St. George area. Now is a great time to get the mountain and road bikes back out, knock off some winter dust, and hit the trails. If biking isn’t your thing, the golf courses stay open year-round in Utah’s Dixie. Be forewarned temps can dip at night, and the sun sets quite early, so camping can be dark and cold. One advantage to the St. George area is a plethora of affordable motels. I’ve been known to perfect the art of “motel camping” on a few late winter trips down south and grill burgers on our tailgate just steps from running water and a comfortable bed. Should St. George be a bit too chilly or muddy for mountain biking, try the biking trails in the Vegas area, as well as worldclass climbing at Red Rocks. You’ll return ready for some fresh powder, but already looking forward to the spring months just around the corner. Nick Como escaped the skyscrapers of NYC for the tall peaks of the Wasatch. Climber, skier, canyoneer, mountain biker, and lover of food. Just don’t think of offering him pizza with pineapple on it.

BE A PART OF THE ADVENTURE Details for Exhibitors and Public at

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AdventureGearFest.com

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Photo courtesy of Mystic Hot Springs.

5 Utah Hot Springs to Warm Up in This Winter

Mystic Hot Springs

Got a chill in your bones? Warm up with an invigorating soak in one of Utah’s most unique and appealing hot springs. Mystic Hot Springs Location: 475 East 100 North in Monroe. 175 miles from SLC. Directions: Take Exit 188 off I-15 South. Go east on US-50 for about 25 miles to I-70 West, then proceed to Exit 31. Turn left, continue for 2 miles and turn right on Highway 118. After 3.5 miles, turn left on 100 North and head up the hill. Long after its early 20th-century heyday as central Utah’s “home of mirth and merriment,” Mystic (mystichotsprings.com) has experienced a revival under owner/ operator Mike Ginsburg, who took over in 1996. Visitors are embraced by the quaint, offbeat charm, not to mention plenty of soaking space in several bathtubs, and two swimming pools.

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Photos courtesy of Crystal Hot Springs.

By Alexa V. Morgan Overnight lodging is offered in the form of restored pioneer cabins and ‘60s psychedelia-inspired converted school buses, in addition to camping and RV sites. “You have this direct connection to the earth and it allows you to just be in the moment,” Ginsburg says. “A lot of times, we don’t have that opportunity to just contemplate and enjoy what’s going on around us.” Crystal Hot Springs Location: 8215 N. Highway 38 in Honeyville. 69 miles from SLC. Directions: Take Exit 372 off I-15 South. Head east on Highway 240 for about a mile, then turn left on Highway 38 and travel north for 1.7 miles. The springs are located on the west side of the road.

Crystal Hot Springs

This bona fide geologic wonder boasts a 135°F hot and 70°F cold spring just 50 feet apart, which contain the highest mineral content (46,000 parts per

Photo courtesy of Crystal Hot Springs.

Photo courtesy of Mystic Hot Springs.

Mystic Hot Springs

million, roughly 178 times greater than Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas) in the world. Over 1,600 gallons of water flow to the surface every minute. Prior to being established as a business in 1901, the area drew Native Americans and Chinese railroad workers to bathe and relax. During World War II, wounded

Crystal Hot Springs

soldiers undergoing rehabilitation were brought in by the busload. Today, Crystalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 160-person soaking pool, three 20-person tubs, Olympic-size pool with waterslides, camping sites, and reasonable $7 entry fee attract some 250,000 visitors each year, general manager Adam Nelson says.

Fifth Water Hot Springs Location: 40.0849 N, 111.3546 W (GPS coordinates) 74 miles from SLC. Directions: Take Exit 258 off I-15 South and head east on US-6 for about 11 miles. Turn left at the sign for Diamond Fork and follow the road to the Three Forks Trailhead.

DER N U D N A N E T S KID

! E E R F I SK ildren ages ten and under Now at Brighton Resort, ch d by a paying adult! ski for free when accompanie

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Photo courtesy of Homestead Crater

Homestead Crater

the continually circulating mineral water remains heated between 90–96°F.

Photo courtesy of Homestead Crater

A natural waterfall serves as the backdrop to several man-made soaking pools overflowing into a warm stream at this picturesque canyon hideaway, also called Diamond Fork Hot Springs. Temperatures vary from around 95° to upwards of 102°F. The 6-mile dirt road is closed to vehicle access during the winter months, making fat bikes the next best option. Making the trek by ski or snowshoe is a viable, yet labor-intensive, alternative. Watch for icy patches along the 2.5-mile hike in from the trailhead. Running into skinny dippers or wildlife is not uncommon. Keep kids and pets close, and be sure to pack the proper gear plus plenty of water to enjoy this offthe-beaten path adventure. The Homestead Crater Location: 700 N. Homestead Drive in Midway. 47 miles from SLC. Directions: Take Exit 146 off I-80 East. Head south on US-189, then take River Road to Homestead Drive.

Homestead Crater

formation, the natural opening at the top lets in sunlight and fresh air, while

The signature attraction of Midway’s Homestead Resort, The Crater is like no other hot spring in Utah. Formed by a geothermal spring hidden within a 55foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock

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For $16 per person, go swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving (the Crater is the only warm-water diving destination in the continental U.S.), try a paddleboard yoga class, or just relax and enjoy a therapeutic soak. Visitors can also take the self-guided tour and learn about the geology and history of this natural phenomenon 10,000 years in the making. Reservations are required; call 435-657-3840. Baker Hot Springs Location: 39.61051 N, 112.73069 W (GPS coordinates) 140 miles from SLC. Directions: Take Exit 282 off I-15 South and head south on US-68. Turn right onto US-6 and go west on Highway 174 for 17 miles. Turn right onto the first dirt road with a stop sign and follow it seven miles to the springs. Tucked away in one of Utah’s most remote desert expanses, Baker provides

Alexa V. Morgan has been a freelance writer in southern Utah since 2011. Her work has appeared in the Mainstreet Business Journal of Southern Utah, Utah Business Magazine, St. George News, and 15 Bytes, among other publications. In her spare time, she enjoys photography, tennis, and her adorable pets. Follow her on Twitter at @alexavmorgan.

Photo courtesy of Crystal Hot Springs.

utahhumane.org

Crystal Hot Springs

three tubs, each large enough to accommodate several people, with hot and cold water ditches giving bathers control over the temperature. The site was developed in the 1920s as the foundation for a health retreat that never took off. Today, residents of Delta help with upkeep on a volunteer basis by picking up trash and cleaning the tubs. About 150 yards upstream is the hot water source fed by the nearby Fumarole Butte, a 6 million-year-old shield volcano. Colloidal gold and silver, among other minerals, occurs naturally in high concentrations, resulting in unique deposits along the channel. Keep these precious natural resources clean and open for everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;please enjoy responsibly.

every cat should land on its feet . adopt one. help thousands.

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Photo courtesy of Mystic Hot Springs.

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{ Late Winter 2016 } 19

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Photos courtesy of Park City

Miners Camp, base of Silverlode Lift

The New Park City Exploring the United States' Largest Ski Resort By Jenny Willden I first visited The Canyons in 1997, when making the junior high Honor Role netted you a free season pass. It was the first Park City resort to allow snowboarders like me, and back then, the majority of their 2,800 acres were extreme and ungroomed, allowing my friends and I to get into plenty of trouble through our years of skiing/riding there for free. Since then, much has changed at the resort formerly known as The Canyons, including the price of a season pass. This season, for the first time, the new Quicksilver Gondola whisks you up Pinecone Ridge from the Iron Mountain side of Canyons and down the other side, showcasing stellar views before arriving at Silverlode lift and the new Miner’s Camp at Park City…. in just eight-and-a-half minutes. This feat—part of $50 million in capital improvements— came after Vail’s acquisition of PCMR last year. The gondola’s completion officially joined the two resorts, creating the United States largest ski area with 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, 41 lifts, and over 300 trails, according to Vail Resorts. Whether you’re already a holder of Vail’s Epic season pass or a virgin to the Park City experience, here are a few worthwhile reasons to visit (or revisit).

{ Late Winter 2016 }

[ Trailsides

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Speedy lifts. Riders now experience shorter lines after upgrading Motherlode lift from a fixed-grip triple to a detachable high-speed 4-pack and King-Con from a 4-pack to a 6-pack, both on the Park City side. 2. Skip the trek to the car and back. Ride both resorts in a day, and skip the long Canyons Cabriolet, Red Pine Gondola, Tombstone trek to reach Ninety-nine 90 and other great terrain via the Quicksilver Gondola. 3. Trek less, ski more. Ride both resorts in a day, and skip the long Cabriolet, Red Pine Gondola, Tombstone journey to reach advanced terrain via the Quicksilver Gondola from Park City. Or vice-versa: parking more easily on the Canyons Village side and ride Park City thanks to the gondola. 4. Few crowds. The former Canyons side still is the place to be a few days after a storm as even with the easy access of the gondola, there are plenty of powder stashes hidden in Dreamworld. 5. Improved dining options. Miners Camp, an expanded Red Pine Lodge, and Park City Main Street options accessible from the Town Lift mean finding gourmet eats is easier than ever. 1.

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Photos courtesy of Park City

Park City Gondola

ON- AND OFF-MOUNTAIN DINING

Photos courtesy of Park City

Miners Camp (Base of Silverlode Lift, parkcitymountain.com) Houses a pub, ski shop, and cafeteria-style eats with choices like Mediterranean kabobs, soup, salad, and pizza. Jafflz (Two on-mountain locations: Red Pine Lodge at Canyons Village and The Shack at Park City, jafflz.com) This fast-casual sandwich shop specializes in Jaffles, sweet- and savory-filled pocket sandwiches originating in South Africa that you can eat utensil free. Perfect for the chairlift! Tupelo (508 Main Street, tupeloparkcity.com) Local ingredients are favored at this restaurant that emphasizes unique, globally-inspired dishes. Great choice for a night out after a long ski day. Ritual Chocolate (1105 Iron Horse Drive, ritualchocolate.com) A small batch chocolate factory with café serving coffee, hot chocolate, and free chocolate samples. Weekly tours. Park City Brewery (2720 Rasmussen Rd. Suite A1, parkcitybrewery.com) Enjoy a local beer and grilled cheese sandwich at this brewery on the way back down Parley’s Canyon.

Jenny is the Managing Editor of Outdoor Sports Guide and a self-proclaimed gear and grammar nut. She loves adventure and is happiest when riding horses or snowboarding in Utah’s mountains. Llama racing and deal finding are her secret superpowers. Follow Jenny’s exploits on Twitter @jennywillden or on Google+.

{ Late Winter 2016 }

[ Trailsides

sportsguidemag.com ]

Murdocks

Moving is the best medicine. Keeping active and losing weight are just two of the ways that you can fight osteoarthritis pain. In fact, for every pound you lose, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four pounds less pressure on each knee. For information on managing pain, go to fightarthritispain.org.

RESORT REPORT By Jenny Willden Enjoy ski days in new ways at these upcoming skiing and snowboarding events and workshops at Utah’s resorts. These listings are complete as of press time, but we’ll continue adding listings to our website (sportsguidemag.com) as more information becomes available.

Fireworks display! Visit website for further details.

ALTA Coed Steep Skiing Camp with Kim Reichhelm (February 29–March 3) Work on your technique in steep terrain, powder, and other challenging conditions in a safe, controlled environment. Alta’s large variety of slopes allow for terrain progressions suitable to different comfort levels. Includes four days of lift tickets, training, daily lunch, and après ski parties. Visit website for details and pricing. skiwithkim.com

DEER VALLEY FIS Freestyle World Cup Event (February 3–6) Watch as competitors race on runs used during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. Aerial, mogul, and dual mogul finals in the evenings are free to the public and followed by fireworks. FREE concert on Wednesday, February 3 on Main Street at 6:30 p.m. deervalley.com

Alta’s 3 Day Off Trail Workshop at the Snowpine Lodge (March 6–9) For advanced and expert skiers looking to improve their off-trail skiing. Participants stay at the Snowpine Lodge. Package includes lift tickets, some meals, hotel, taxes, and fees. Call 801-742-2000 to book. alta.com BEAVER MOUNTAIN Beaver Bash (March TBA) Send ski season off in style at this party featuring boxcar racing, pond skimming, live music, costumes, and plenty of sunshine. skithebeav.com BRIAN HEAD Winter Star Party (February 13 and March 19) Join Cedar Breaks National Monument’s “Dark Ranger Dave” for a star gazing party at Brian Head’s Navajo Lodge. Star parties kick off with a laser tour of the constellations, followed by telescope viewing of deep-space objects. Telescopes provided by rangers, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own as well! Free hot chocolate too! brianhead.com BRIGHTON RESORT Night Party and Fireworks (February 12) Join us for our annual Night Party and

{ Late Winter 2016 }

[ Resort Report

32 Day (March 2) Hang out with the Thritytwo Pro Team, crush the banked slalom course, and rip in the rail jam! Visit the website for more details. brightonresort.com

Easter Bunny Visits Deer Valley (March 27) See the Easter Bunny and take pictures at Snow Park Lodge from 9:00–11:00 a.m. deervalley.com PARK CITY Sprint U.S. Grand Prix (February 3–6) See the world’s best ski and snowboard athletes compete on the Eagle Superpipe and King’s Crown Slopestyle courses. FREE admission. irideparkcity.tv Spring Gruv (March 19–28) This wild spring bash begins with a rowdy Pond Skimming Contest on Saturday, March 19 outside Red Pine Lodge. Contestants sport a costume as they attempt to cross a 100-foot pond on skis or a snowboard. FREE après-ski concert in the Canyons Village after pond skimming. parkcitymountain.com SUNDANCE MOUNTAIN RESORT Full Moon Cross Country Skiing (February 20) Cross-country ski or snowshoe by the light of the full moon from 5:00–9:00 p.m. Grab the family or a date and independently explore their wooded trails at night. Unguided so you can explore for as long as you like. Bring a headlamp!

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Night Owling (March 9 and 25) Take a professionally guided snowshoe tour at night with Sundance's expeirenced staff where call for owls on the trail and wildlife experts will use live owls in teaching about wildlife in winter. sundanceresort.com SNOWBIRD SKI AND SUMMER RESORT Subaru Winterfest (March 12–13) Come celebrate your passion for winter at the 2016 Subaru WinterFest, coming to Snowbird. Visitors can demo the latest equipment from Nordica and LibTech, gfe great giveaways and hot chocolate, support Wasatch Adaptive Sports and participate in Subaru scavenger hunt. Easter at Snowbird (March 27) Sunrise service on Hidden Peak, pancake breakfast, and FREE Easter Egg Hunt for kids 11 and under. snowbird.com SOLITUDE Nordic Center’s Annual Spring Fling (March 12) Enjoy a Nordic ski racing, live music, and food. Registration at 8:00 a.m. Event begins at 9:00 a.m. Dress in a funny outfit for a chance to win great prizes! Other contests and a schedule of events will be released in February. If you’d like to volunteer, need more information, or pre-register for a discount, call the Nordic Center at 801-536-5774. 26th Annual Chocolate Lovers’ Tour (March 19) Taste chocolate on this tour where you’ll follow a map on your Chocolate Lover’s Passport to different stations on and off the mountain, where complimentary goodies are given beginning at 9:00 a.m. Receive a stamp from each station and you’re entered to win great prizes! Completed passports due by noon; prize drawing at 1:00 p.m. Easter Egg Hunt and Skiing with Easter Bunny (March 27) Children ages 2–10 are welcome at this FREE Easter Egg Hunt at the Snowsports Academy in the Moonbeam Base Area at 9:30 a.m. skisolitude.com

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CALENDAR

{ CLINICS / CYCLING / REI }

[ Clinics and Events ] FEBRUARY 6

AVALANCE AWARENESS SEMINAR Learn the skills you need to safely navigate the backcountry. This is an extensive 6-hr course that begins with 3 hrs. of in-classroom instruction followed by 3 hrs. of onmountain instruction and drills, taught by Snowbird Backcountry Guides and Ski Patrol. Bring your ski/ snowboard as well as a transceiver if you have one. ww.snowbird.com/events FEBRUARY 5 & 26

FREE BEACON CLINIC In this free 1-hr clinic, you will learn the anatomy of avalanche beacons and how they work during a search. There will be a brief classroom discussion followed by a field session in Chickadee Bowl. Dress warmly and bring a transceiver if you have one. Walk-ins welcome. Meet at the Snowbird Backcountry Guides office: Level 1 of Snowbird Center

snowbirdguides@gmail.com, www.snowbird.com/events FEBRUARY–MARCH

BANFF FILM FESTIVAL Get inspired watching athletes climb, ski, hike, and defy gravity in this spectacular festival of outdoor films. Logan, USU Recreations Center, February 11–12; Ogden, Peery's Egyptian Theater, February 13–14; Salt Lake City, Kingsbury Hall, February 16–18; Moab, March 7–8. banffcentre.ca FEBRUARY 26–28

SHERIDE SNOWBOARD CAMP A snowboard camp for women, coached by women. From beginners to experts, all riders, at all levels, spend the weekend improving their snowboarding together. www.sheride.com, www.snowbird.com/events MARCH 3–6

SKI TO LIVE CAMPS High End 4-day camps. Intermediate to expert

skiers, men and women. At the glamorous Chalet Day Johns at Alta, Utah. $1550 camp only (yes you can do the camp only) Additional charge for all inclusive $2300-2900 (fluctuates with sign ups) for private room, 4 nights lodging,3 days of bfast/dinner and apres ski, and 3 lift tickets. www. kristenulmer.com

Mountain’s Hidden Lake area terrain while pro and open class riders will compete over 18 miles. Free fat bike demos provided by Borealis and local bike shops. Powder Mountain also hosts the US National Snowshoe Championships the same weekend. www.usacycling.org

MARCH 12–13

SKINNY TIRE FEST Moab, UT. Enjoy four beautiful road bike rides: through Arches National Park, two along the Colorado River, and one to Dead Horse Point and back. The rides are fully supported with sag wagons, bike mechanics, and aid stations along the way. Yoga, event expo, cowboy dinner with live music, and Banff Film Festival screenings also included. Weekender package (Sat/Sun) $150 or all four days for $190. www.skinnytireevents.com

SKI TO LIVE_SKI CAMPS 2 Alta, UT. Great if you want to troubleshoot specific ski or life questions, finding clear, physcially embodied answers. Intermediate to expert skiers, men and women. $590 Camp Only. www.kristenulmer.com/ options/ski-to-live

[ Cycling ] FEBRUARY 27

USA CYCLING FAT BIKE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Powder Mountain, UT. Amateurs ride 12 miles across Powder

MARCH 12–15

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{ Late Winter 2016 }

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on what you need and where to go to get started.

JACKSON HOLE POLE PEDAL PADDLE Jackson, WY. Four-event race for individuals and teams: alpine skiing, crosscountry skiing, bicycling, and boating. Raises funds for the Jackson Hole Ski and Snowboard Club, a non-profit that provides affordable skiing and boarding programs to Jackson youth. www.jhskiclub.org

15% off

SNOWSHOE BASICS Join our experienced REI staff for a class on the basics of snowshoeing. We will focus on the appropriate selection of gear as well as the basics

START AT 40% OFF NEW PRODUCT ARRIVALS MONTHLY

FEBRUARY 18

AVALANCHE AWARENESS – KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Not much science, no warnings, no formulas to memorize. You will understand when and why avalanches happen, and how you can have fun in the mountains and avoid avalanches. Subjects include: avalanche rescue, how avalanches work, reading avalanche terrain, obvious clues to instability, avalanche weather, safe travel practices and essential equipment. This talk is presented by a representative of the Utah Avalanche Center. For ages 12 and older. FEBRUARY 25

BIKE MAINTENANCE FOR TRAIL RIDING Mountain bikes are made for the trails, but sometimes they still need a little care and attention to keep performing at their best. In this class, we’ll cover critical maintenance tips that will help you get the most out of every ride, no matter the season. FEBRUARY 27

INTRODUCTION TO SNOWSHOEING - FIELD CLASS Registration required Discover the joy

Calendar ]

{ Late Winter 2016 } 27

FRIEND US! AMER SPORTS FACTORY OUTLET KEEP UPDATED ON NEW PRODUCT!

CAR TOPS SKI/BOARD RACKS • UNDERWEAR • BACKPACKS • SNOW SHOES

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HANDS ON SKI/ SNOWBOARD TUNE AND WAX WORKSHOP Registrastion required. Spend four hours with an REI shop tech learning the basics of tuning your own gear. We’ll have all the tools, just bring a set of alpine skis or snowboard. We ask that you have basic knowledge of the gear and tools, or attend one of our Basics classes in store. Space is limited to 4 students. Minimum age 18 years or older to register and participate in this class. Preregistration required.

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INTRODUCTION TO SNOWSHOEING - FIELD CLASS Discover the joy of winter and the freedom of snowshoeing! You will learn snowshoeing techniques, ascending and descending hills, snow hazard awareness, and winter preparedness. Don’t have snowshoes? We provide snowshoes, snowshoe poles and professional instruction on proper use of equipment, to make every trip a success. 18 years and older.

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SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. Registration is required. Seating may be available at the door, even if the registration is closed. For more information and to register, visit our website at rei.com/Sandy or call 801-501-0850.

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{ REI / RUNNING / WINTER SPORTS }

of winter and the freedom of snowshoeing! On this field outing, you’ll learn snowshoeing techniques, ascending and descending hills, snow hazard awareness, and winter preparedness. Don’t have snowshoes? We provide snowshoes, snowshoe poles and professional instruction on proper use of equipment, to make every trip a success. 18 years and older. SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI SLC is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. Registration is required. Seating may be available at the door, even if the registration is closed. For more information and to register, visit our website at

rei.com/saltlakecity or call 801-486-2100. FEBRUARY 2

MAP AND COMPASS NAVIGATION BASICS Registration required. Come learn basic navigation skills using map and compass. In this in-store class you’ll learn the parts of a compass, how to read a topographic map and how to use them in tandem. Small class size, registration required. FEBRUARY 7

HANDS ON SKI/ SNOWBOARD TUNE AND WAX WORKSHOP Registration required. Spend four hours with an REI shop tech learning the basics of tuning your own gear. We’ll have all the tools, just

bring a set of alpine skis or snowboard. We ask that you have basic knowledge of the gear and tools, or attend one of our Basics classes in store. Space is limited to 4 students. Minimum age 18 years or older to register and participate in this class. Preregistration required. FEBRUARY 9

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN. — BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

{ Late Winter 2016 }

[ Calendar

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to instability, avalanche weather, safe travel practices and essential equipment. This talk is presented by a representative of the Utah Avalanche Center. For ages 12 and older. FEBRUARY 17

SNOWSHOE BASICS Join our experienced REI staff for a class on the basics of snowshoeing. We will focus on the appropriate selection of gear as well as the basics on what you need and where to go to get started. FEBRUARY 23

BIKE MAINTENANCE FOR TRAIL RIDING Mountain bikes are made for the trails, but sometimes they still need a little care and attention to keep performing at their best.

CALENDAR In this class, we’ll cover critical maintenance tips that will help you get the most out of every ride, no matter the season.

FEBRUARY 4

FEBRUARY 25

REFRESH YOUR RUN So, you want to be a runner? Whether you are just starting or are getting ‘back on track,’ this class will help you get in the groove and provide training and technique insights to get you back in shape and/or prepare for your upcoming 5-10K or more. FEBRUARY 29

or just want to learn more! Ragnar and REI vendors will be in attendance. Registration recommended but not required.

The following classes are being offered by partner organizations.

GPS BASICS: UTM Registration required Just getting started with GPS navigation? Would you like to learn a hiking friendly coordinate system? Join us for this beginner’s class and learn all the basic concepts to get you on the trail with your GPS. You’ll learn the UTM coordinate system which can be used with or without a GPS and is very hiker friendly. GPS is not required, but you can bring one from home if you desire.

[ Running ]

BACKCOUNTRY 101 FOR SNOWSHOERS 5:30pm8:30pm, REI SLC

MARCH 12

FEBRUARY 6

BACKCOUNTRY 101 FOR SNOWSHOERS 8am-4p,Location TBD REI, Cottonwood Canyons Foundation & Utah Avalanche Center are teaming up to bring you Backcountry 101 for Snowshoers. One evening classroom session and a day on the snow with pros. $80 per person. Pre-registration required at www. utahavalanchecenter.org FEBRUARY 10

RAGNAR TRAIL KICKOFF / GEAR UP EVENT 6pm8pm, REI SLC. Get pumped for the Ragnar Trail Zion! Join Ragnar and REI for a free Gear Up Party to learn more about the Ragnar Trail Relay, what gear you need, and meet your Ragnar Ambassadors. Also, learn about the various trainings, classes and meetups leading up to Ragnar Trail Zion. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to network, especially if you need to complete your Ragnar team

CANYONLANDS HALF MARATHON & 5-MILE RUN Moab, UT. Run your way down scenic Highway 123 through towering red rock cliffs that mark the border to Arches National Park. www.moabhalfmarathon. com

[ Winter Sports ] FEBRUARY 22–28

WASATCH YETI BASH Ogden, UT. We will be showing Warren Miller films, retailers will be open later, and a festival. www. visitogden.com/ski-ogden/ ski-week FEBRUARY 27–28

SNOWSHOE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Powder Mountain Resort, UT. Many of the country finest winter endurance athletes, representing 25-30 different U.S. States, are expected to heed the starter's call. Junior and adult races plus half marathon and new full marathon.

Athletes of all ages may qualify to compete. www. snowshoeracing.com MARCH 4–6

WASATCH POWDER KEG Brighton Ski Resort, UT. A test of speed, strength, and endurance for any backcountry skier. 3 races offered and racers have the option of doing any individual race or all 3 races. Sanctioned by the International Ski Mountaineering Association (ISMF) as an ISMF Series Race. www. wasatchpowderkeg.com MARCH 12

STEVE YOUNG SKI CLASSIC Join Steve Young and other celebrities as the Forever Young Foundation and Wasatch Adaptive Sports (WAS) team up for a fun-filled day of skiing followed by an evening dinner and auction. Funds raised support WAS in providing year-round recreational, educational and social activities to the children, adults, and veterans with special needs. 801-933-2188 or elizabeth@ wasatchadaptivesports.org, www.snowbird.com/events

THE 17TH ANNUAL

KEEPER ISSUE Post online and get your events into the KEEPER issue www.sportsguidemag.com

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{ Late Winter 2016 } 29

LAST WORD

Winter in Utah's National Parks Why It's the Best Time to Visit By Allison Laypath One of my favorite vacation memories is hiking to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park with my children and parents in February. It was the first time my youngest child and my mom had hiked to Delicate Arch, and it was especially challenging for Mom. When she finally made it, she exclaimed, “I’m glad I did it. Everyone should see this at least once.” Does it matter that this story happened in February? Yes. The hike to Delicate Arch can be unreasonably hot and crowded at other times of the year. If we had been unable to find a parking space, if the sun had been relentlessly hot on the sandstone slopes, if large crowds made it difficult to find a place to sit, catch our breath, and contemplate nature’s splendor at the end of the trail, my mom probably would not have tried the hike, and this family memory would have never happened. Why else should you visit in winter? Here are four great reasons: 1. See the parks in a new way Bryce Canyon is stunning year-round, but if you haven’t seen its orange hoodoos capped with fresh white snow against a bright blue sky, you’re missing out. Rangers lead snowshoe hikes to viewpoints unreachable by car in the winter. Some park roads are left unplowed for crosscountry skiers and 40 kilometers of trails are groomed for both classic and skate cross-country skiing. The cold, dry air is perfect for stargazing in Bryce Canyon’s famous night sky. Bryce also hosts their annual Winter Festival February 14–16, 2016, which features cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, running and skiing clinics, free demos and tours, and a concert. 2. Great hiking weather All of Utah’s national parks get some snow in the winter, which adds to their beauty, but it usually doesn’t last long. Some trails close in the winter, but many of the sunny hiking trails in Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, Capitol Reef, and even Bryce Canyon are accessible year-round. 40o F was just about right when my family hiked up the sun-soaked slickrock to Delicate Arch. Be sure to watch the weather forecast before your trip and pack layers and footwear with exceptional traction so you’ll be prepared for any temperature or terrain. 3. Avoid the crowds Trolling for a parking space at the visitor center or a popular trailhead and sharing spectacular viewpoints with busloads of tourists is no fun. Nobody wants that at national parks, but during peak seasons, it’s often a reality. Winter attracts far fewer visitors, making it easier to contemplate the parks’ beauty in solitude or get that perfect photo. At Zion, you can even drive on the park’s famous red roads in the winter from mid-November to mid-March and skip the crowded summer shuttle. 4. Save money Savvy travelers know that off-season is the time to find the best rates at local hotels and resorts. Look for bargains in Moab, Springdale, Torrey, and other communities near the parks from November to March. Some park campgrounds are open year-round as well. Expect to find fewer restaurants and other services open during the off-season though. When my husband and I visited Bryce Canyon in January, just one restaurant was open—Ruby’s Inn. We ate dinner there, but packed our own picnic supplies to eat in the park, which is a great way to save money.

Allison is the founder and co-editor of the family travel blog Tips for Family Trips at tipsforfamilytrips.com. She believes that travel makes families stronger, smarter, and happier, whether you are visiting exotic locales or exploring your own hometown. Allison's work has been featured on ABC's The Lookout, The Huffington Post, Parents Magazine, and on Studio 5 on KSL-TV. Allison has an MBA from the University of Utah. She is a married mom of two, ages 11 and 8, and lives near Salt Lake City.

{ Late Winter 2016 }

[ Last Word

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