Early Winter 2016 by Outdoor Sports Guide

EARLY WINTER 2016

FREE

VOLUME 34 ISSUE 6

Ways to Winter in the Uintas

Backcountry Skiing, Snowshoeing, Yurting

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

43 PICKS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

5 Must-visit

Ski Resort Lounges

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WHAT’S INSIDE EARLY WINTER 2016 VOL. 34 NO. 6 PUBLISHER // Dan Miller ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER // Paula Bell MANAGING EDITOR // Jenny Willden CIRCULATION MANAGER/OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR // Cynthia Bell Snow SENIOR EDITOR // Melissa McGibbon ASSOCIATE EDITOR // Molly Andersen

CONTRIBUTORS // Nick Como, Amy David, Lora Erickson, Alexa V. Morgan ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION MANAGER // Jackie Medina GRAPHIC DESIGN // Leslie Hanna, Ken Magleby, Patrick Witmer REGIONAL ADVERTISING SALES // 801-467-9419 Paula Bell, Karen Malan, Paul Nicholas NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES // Brook Gardner, Jeremy Solomon

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

10 6 STARTING LINE

Editor’s Note, Winter Races, Deer Valley World Cup, Solitude Snowboardcross

8 RESORT REPORT

Holiday Activities at Utah Resorts By Jenny Willden

10 FEATURE

By Nick Como

Is Excessive Endurance Training Putting You at Risk? By Molly Andersen

Backcountry Rescue Dogs How These Pups Sniff Out Victims, Save Lives By Alexa V. Morgan

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22 TRAVEL

Après Ski Adventures 5 Must-Visit Ski Resort Lounges

24 PROFILE

Anna Beninati Skiing Brought Her Joy After Losing Her Legs

26 FITNESS

Running with Kids 8 Fun and Creative Workouts Kids Love By Lora Erickson

16 TRAILSIDES

By Melissa McGibbon & Jenny Willden

By Amy David

12 HEALTH Heart Breakers

Holiday Gift Guide 43 Picks for Everyone on Your List

By Melissa McGibbon

Uinta Winter Three Ways Snowshoeing, Backcountry Skiing, and Yurting Await in Utah’s “Other” Mountain Range

18 GEAR

[ Contents

28 CALENDAR ON THE COVER Jacki Arevalo boots up a steep ridge in the Wasatch Range. Photo Credit: Louis Arevalo

sportsguidemag.com ]

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 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. MILLS PUBLISHING, INC. retains reprint rights, including affiliated internet site reprints, but contributors retain all 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. Published by Mills Publishing, Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah. © 2016. All rights reserved.

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STARTING LINE From the Editor Winter on the Wasatch was off to a slow start with ski resorts forced to delay their openings but the snow is finally falling! Here’s hoping that by the time you get this copy, Utah is blanketed with feet of the good stuff and you’re lounging après ski with a cup of hot cocoa at our best ski lodges (page 22).

Photo Credit: Melissa McGibbon

Until then, check out our holiday gift guide on page 18 to get your shopping done fast; it’s filled with 43 great ideas for travelers, campers, pets, kids, and fitness fanatics. If you’d rather focus on experiences than gifts this year, read about winter adventures in the Uintas on page 10. Another alternative to gifting is celebrating the season at free, festive events at Utah’s ski resorts (page 8). Happy holidays!

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

Riding at Park City Mountain

Baker’s Dozen Half Marathon and 5K Sugarholics: assemble! On December 10 in Hurricane, Utah you can race a 5K or half marathon—all while downing treats (cupcakes, cookies, donuts) along the way. Runners race a 3.25-mile loop course with half marathoners looping four times and 5K participants looping once. Half marathon runners receive a medal only if they eat a treat from the Sugar Shack aid station each time they pass it. bakersdozenhalfmarathon.com

Wasatch Citizens Cross Country Race Series TUNA (The Utah Nordic Alliance) hosts their popular Nordic races series beginning in December at major cross-country ski venues along the Wasatch. Race dates: December 17, January 7, 28, February 11 and 25. Two classic and three free technique races are offered with categories for age, gender, and ability level, so all can participate and compete. Points are accumulated throughout the season with prizes awarded to top three skiers in each class. utahnordic.com

Salt Lake Track Club Beat the New Year Run Ring in the New Year in your running shoes as you race around Sugar House Park on New Year’s Eve. This year there are two start times,11:15 p.m. and 11:30 p.m., so everyone can finish by midnight. Commemorative plaque given to all runners who finish before midnight. Costume contest held after race. slctrackclub.org

New Year’s Revolution Run and Ride If winter keeps you indoors, join 365 runners and walkers on December 31, 2016 for a five-hour indoor running party at the Utah Olympic Oval. Do as many laps as you like on the indoor track and receive a medal if you complete a full marathon. You can also participate by bringing a bike or trainer along, or mix it up and do a bike/run combo. newyearsrevolutionrun.com

Life Time Fitness Commitment Day 5K Start 2017 off on the right foot at this New Year’s Day 5K run or walk sponsored by Life Time Fitness. The family-friendly run begins at Life Time Fitness (10996 S. River Front Pkwy, South Jordan) on January 1 at 10:00 a.m. Just $25 for adults. Kids 13 and under race FREE with paying adult. commitmentday.com

POW Day Join Alta, Snowbird, Sundance, and Powder Mountain in protecting our winters at the second annual POW Day on January 13. Get perks for carpooling with at least three people like priority parking at every resort, a POW Day Discrete beanie, and the peace of mind knowing you helped reduce carbon emissions that day. UTA bus riders receive Discrete beanies too. skiutah.com

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Sports-am Snowshoe Stomp 5K Race in snowshoes on wooded trails and across streams at Mountain Dell (near Park City) at this winter 5K race. Kids can participate too at the snowshoe 1K held before the main event. Race is Saturday, January 21. If you don’t own snowshoes, $10 rentals are available at REI or you can race in running shoes. Event followed by hot chocolate, coffee, and blueberry pancakes. sports-am.com

Deer Valley FIS Freestyle World Cup Watch athletes from around the world compete in moguls, dual moguls, and aerials at Deer Valley’s annual freestyle championship February 1–4. The fun begins with a FREE concert on lower Main Street in Park City at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1. Moguls held Thursday, Aerials Friday, and Dual Moguls Saturday; followed by fireworks. All events free to the public. deervalley.com

Solitude U.S. Snowboardcross Grand Prix Watch ski- and snowboardcross champions compete at the first major international skiing and snowboarding competition to come to Big Cottonwood Canyon. In preparation for the 2019 World Championships, Solitude Mountain Resort will host the 2017 FIS Skicross NorAm World Cup and U.S. Grand Prix/FIS Snowboard World Cup. The finals for these skicross and snowboardcross events are free for the public to attend and take place January 20–22 from noon to 2:00 p.m. skisolitude.com

With a full selection of technical apparel and ski gear, as well as a huge demo fleet and ski shop, the Black Diamond Store is your local source for all things backcountry.

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Don’t wait until Spring to start training - be ready for competition when Spring starts! The 2017 KOPFC Winter Indoor Tri-Series will help you do that by motivating & gauging your training progress while you enjoy competing at TWO World Class facilities!

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By Jenny Willden Deck the halls on a mountaintop with our comprehensive guide to free Santa skiing, torchlight parades, Kris Kringle visits, and New Year’s celebrations at Utah’s ski resorts. Visit skiutah.com for more information on all resort events.

EAGLE POINT The resort opens for the season on December 17 and is open daily until January 2, 2017 for the holidays. eaglepointresort.com

ALTA New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade Ring in 2017 at Alta’s annual torchlight parade. To participate you must wear goggles and be an intermediate skier or above. An adult must accompany children, and they’ll need to bring their own lights. Lifts load at 5:15 p.m. Parade and fireworks begin at 6:00 p.m. Entry fee is $10; proceeds go to the Utah Food Bank. alta.com

PARK CITY Santa Comes Down Town Lift Welcome Santa to Park City on December 17 at 5:30 p.m. at the Town Lift Plaza. The evening features complimentary hot chocolate, while supplies last, as you wait for Santa to ride in on the Town Lift on his lit up sled. Free photos with Santa courtesy of EpicMix Photo.

BEAVER MOUNTAIN Beaver Mountain is closed Christmas Day, but open on New Year’s Day. skithebeav.com

Snowfest Visit Park City from December 17–January 1, 2017 for a 16-day festival that includes après musical acts, village entertainers, Santa sightings, and more winter fun.

BRIAN HEAD New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade Ring in the New Year in Southern Utah with night skiing, a torchlight parade on the slopes at 7 p.m., fireworks, and after-party in Last Chair Saloon. brianhead.com BRIGHTON RESORT Consumer Demo Day Try the latest ski and snowboard gear before you buy it at this free demo day on December 7. Quad Wednesdays Ski or ride for just $20 on December 7, 14, and 21 with your donations. Bring a new unwrapped toy for Utah Foster Care Foundation (Dec. 7), new winter clothing (hats, socks, gloves, etc.) for the Road Home (Dec. 14), and a bag of non-perishable canned food for the Utah Food Bank (Dec. 21). Santa Skis Free Day Dress as Santa and ski for free on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day! Partial costumes don’t count, so be sure to wear red suit, beard, and Santa hat to get a free lift ticket. Limited to first 200 Santas. brightonresort.com

54th Annual Torchlight Parade and Christmas Eve Celebration Get in the holiday spirit on Christmas Eve by listening to festive music while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies at the Park City Base Area beginning at 5:30 p.m. Once the sun sets, the ski and snowboard school will ski down the PayDay trail in a traditional torchlight parade. Free admission and refreshments, while supplies last. New Year’s Eve Celebration Participate in family-friendly activities on New Year’s Eve at the Canyons Village: a concert, DJ, and a fireworks display at 7:30 p.m. (Early enough that the kiddos get to celebrate without staying up all night.) parkcitymountain.com SNOWBASIN RESORT Christmas Eve Celebration Ski with Santa during the day, then enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner at Earl’s Lodge from 4:30–8:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve. No reservations accepted; come early to get your spot. Hot cocoa and other refreshments will also be available at the lodge. Santa arrives at 5:30 p.m. for photographs with the kids. Torchlight parade and fireworks begin at 6:30 p.m. and are FREE for all to attend. snowbasin.com

DEER VALLEY Santa Claus Visits Deer Valley Ski on Christmas Eve and visit Santa in the Snow Park Lodge area from 9:00–11:00 a.m. or from noon–1:30 p.m. in the Silver Lake Lodge area. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with Santa.

SNOWBIRD SKI & SUMMER RESORT Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks   On Christmas Eve, stay after skiing for bonfires on the Plaza Deck followed by the Torchlight Parade, fireworks, and Santa rappelling from the Tram at approximately 6:00 p.m. Candelight Christmas Eve Service at 7:00 p.m. in the Snowbird Center. Catch Santa and Mrs. Claus on the slopes from 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. on Christmas Day.

Torchlight Parade Begins at about 6:00 p.m. (dusk) on December 30 on Bald Eagle Mountain’s Big Stick ski run. Complimentary hot cider and cookies will be served on the Snow Park Plaza. Snow Park Restaurant will also be open for dinner. For more information, call 435-649-1000. deervalley.com

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks   Enjoy fire pits and hot cocoa from 6:00–7:00 p.m. on the Plaza Deck on December 31. Torchlight Parade begins at approximately 6:00 p.m. followed by fireworks display at 6:30 p.m. Stay after for New Year’s parties in the Wildflower Lounge and Tram Club. snowbird.com

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Think Wednesdays Explore the endlessly fascinating worlds of nature and science each Wednesday night.

NATURE at 7PM NOVA at 8PM

Photo Credit: Rachael Smith

Uinta Winter Three Ways

Snowshoeing, Backcountry Skiing, and Yurting Await in Utah’s “Other” Mountain Range By Nick Como Wasatch too crowded? While there are actually plenty of wilderness and opportunities for solitude just beyond the popular trailheads and resort areas, locals seem to forget the options in the Uintas. Just an hour east lies a large wilderness area, high peaks, and nary a soul in sight for those seeking elbow room and a change of scenery. With multiple access points—and hundreds of thousands of acres of space—there are several ways to enjoy this hidden gem: snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and for the multi-day adventurer, yurt trips.

1. SNOWSHOEING & CROSS COUNTRY SKIING The simplicity of snowshoeing is its inherent beauty: grab lightweight layers of winter clothing, a pair of snowshoes, some poles, and start walking. The methodical step-by-step shuffle under towering pine trees weighed down by snow provides a magical canopy for this familyfriendly adventure. Modern snowshoes are capable of climbing steep slopes, but a tromp through a flat meadow is just as enjoyable after a fresh snowfall. Pack a thermos of hot cocoa or coffee and hit one of the many hiking trails, or 10

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cut your own path, following your footsteps back to your vehicle for a rewarding half-day activity. Beaver Creek Trail is one of the first trails heading out of Kamas, and its gentle rolling terrain is even groomed a few times a week. Great in big snow years (fingers crossed!), this trail parallels the highway and eventually connects to the North Fork Trailhead, allowing for both one-way and shuttled walks. Another favorite is the Norway Flat Road, which climbs gradually for four or five miles before steepening. Snowshoe as far as you wish then simply return the way you came. Pro tip: Use longer poles for less fatigued arms, and stay aware when trekking in avalanche terrain. Akin to snowshoeing is cross-country skiing, with many of the same trails shared by users from both groups. For beginners, rent gear for an easy tryout. Snowshoeing is the easier of the two sports, and even expert downhill skiers (translation: this author) have crashed on the thin, edgeless cross-country skis on gradual slopes, or icy areas.

2. BACKCOUNTRY SKIING On summer hikes I can’t help but ogle the Uinta’s high peaks and steep bowls, scouting for potential ski lines and safe skin tracks for next winter.

Utah’s highest mountain range has dozens of above-treeline steep faces: each more appealing than the next. Spring is the preferred season to tackle some of the big ones near Hayden Peak and Bald Mountain Pass, where most terrain is above 10,000 feet. However, the Wolf Creek Pass area—which is accessed from the town of Francis—offers several low-angle ski tours near the campground. Note: This area is also popular with snowmobilers (hey, free tow rides!) throughout the winter. This article is not the proper space to describe in detail any of the specific routes in the Uintas, as they can be complicated and often in high avalanche danger zones. Two books—which cover the entire state—are good places to start. Tyson Bradley’s Backcountry Skiing Utah and Jared Hargrave’s Backcountry Ski & Snowboard Routes: Utah are both great resources for the ski tourer seeking new terrain to explore. But the best way to experience ski terrain in the Uintas is on a multi-day trip, using a yurt as a head start into the backcountry.

3. YURT TRIPS These circular structures were originally used in Mongolia as semipermanent dwellings for their harsh climate, but have been adapted for Utah backcountry skiers and campers. Most yurts come equipped with cooking stoves, kitchen gear, outhouses, and beds, meaning trekkers can pack much lighter than if winter camping, while enjoying weatherproof accommodations. With packs free of heavy items, I usually opt for a light summer sleeping bag, gourmet food, and, if it feels worth the penalty weight, a few cans of beer. I’ve found the best way to travel to most yurts is with about 35 pounds in my pack and the rest on a sled, which I attach with a heavy backpacking style belt to my waist, or clip to my ski pack.

Photo Credit: Rachael Smith

As long as the route is not too steep, or full of narrow side hills, this method of splitting the weight works very well. I have also fallen into the trap of packing too much extra gear to compensate for all the eliminated gear and wind up with an even heavier load. Learn from my mistakes and leave some of those creature comforts at home, but don’t skip comfy yurt slippers.

WHERE TO YURT There are five yurts in the Lily Lake system (brorayurts.org) with the Boundary Creek and Ridge Yurts at the highest elevation—and longest approach—from the trailhead, and therefore the best touring opportunities. The Ridge Yurt is best for those whose priority is to ski some famed Uinta terrain, while the lower yurts are nice weekend escapes—especially for a mixed group that includes intermediate skiers. The terrain is mostly located in one of the basins above the yurts, and reaches above 11,000 feet. This area is accessed through Evanston, so it is a bit of an extra haul for Salt Lakers. Closer to home is the trailhead for Castle Peak Yurt (whitepinetouring.com), which is only 30 miles from Park City, making the logistics more preferable to Wasatch Front and Back residents. With access to Castle Peak and another peak named Duke, this yurt offers some great “backyard” terrain. The approach gains about 2,000’ and can take up to six hours, but the views from top and excellent terrain make it a popular choice. With everything from slide paths to cliff bands available here, options abound for an adventurous and experienced group. An added bonus is the wood-burning sauna to unwind in after a day of skiing, or waiting out nasty conditions and making sure your pores are extra clear before skiing back to the trailhead.

Snowmobile & Sled Access Mirror Lake Highway is closed about 14 miles from Kamas, but the 30-plus miles up and over Bald Pass, and eventually to the Evanston, Wyoming gate is open for snowmobiling. While snowmobiles are prone to breakdowns, they do provide fast access to this road and middle of nowhere terrain: great for exploring new skiing areas. However, avalanches are a major concern on and off sleds or skis, so be prepared for the unexpected.

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.

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Heart Breakers

Is Excessive Endurance Training Putting You at Risk? By Molly Andersen

In April 2016, nearly 40,000 runners gathered at the starting line for the London Marathon. 31-year-old British Army captain David Seath was among them. An experienced athlete and combat veteran who was running to raise money for injured soldiers, he completed the first part of the course with no sign of distress. But three miles from the finish line, he suddenly collapsed. Despite immediate medical attention, Captain Seath was pronounced dead soon after arriving at the hospital. The cause of death: Sudden cardiac arrest from a previously undetected heart defect, one which may have been linked to his long, challenging runs. Your reasons for exercising doubtless include its positive health effects. Regular physical activity promotes increased strength and flexibility, reduced stress, a tougher immune system and—as you’ve heard many times before—a healthier heart. But could your training actually be putting your heart at risk? Mounting evidence suggests that endurance athletes, especially marathoners and triathletes, are susceptible to a group of related cardiac conditions. The stress of these demanding events can damage the heart, causing dangerous, potentially fatal complications. Since the heart is a muscle, it naturally gets larger the more intensively it’s worked. Increased volume and pressure loads cause the heart’s lower left chamber, or ventricle, to enlarge and thicken; this common condition is called left ventricular hypertrophy, or “athlete’s heart.” Ironically, a larger heart doesn’t necessarily mean a stronger one. Bigger cardiac walls lead to reduced overall efficiency, causing the heart to have to work harder to keep pace with the body’s demands. Fortunately, athlete’s heart is a non-fatal, generally non-dangerous condition. Its primary threat is that it can mask the symptoms of other, more serious issues. 12

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In a minority of cases, however, and especially among endurance athletes who train for more than an hour a day, more concerning heart problems can develop. These include irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and general thickening of the heart muscle (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or HCM). Either of these factors—or, as is commonly seen, the presence of both—may lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

Healthy Human Heart

Venae Cavae Right Atrium

Aorta Pulmonary Artery L eft

Atrium

Right Ventricle

Left Ventricle

Cardiac Muscle/Myocardium

Unlike a heart attack, in which the loss of blood supply causes the heart muscle to die, sudden cardiac arrest is caused by a problem with the electrical signals that direct a heart to beat strongly and steadily. Early symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest palpitations, or fainting; more commonly, though, there is no warning before the heart simply stops pumping blood. Both the relatively benign athlete’s heart and its more dangerous cousins typically produce no symptoms. Your doctor can easily detect a resting heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute (bradycardia) during a routine checkup and may recommend further testing. However, distinguishing athlete’s heart from HCM requires more detective work.

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A recent study by Australian and Belgian researchers suggests that in order to successfully diagnose exercise-related heart problems, doctors should take an active approach. “You do not test a racing car while it is in the garage. Similarly, you can’t assess an athlete’s heart until it is under the stress of exercise,” said study author Dr. Andre La Gerche in a journal news release. La Gerche and his fellow authors prescribe electrocardiogram testing on a treadmill for an accurate picture of the heart’s overall health.

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Or, if an enlarged heart is confirmed but its cause is unclear, other authorities recommend stopping endurance activities for three to six months to see if heart wall thickness decreases. A heart that returns to size indicates athlete’s heart, while one that remains enlarged 1:56 normal PM is an indication of HCM. Of course, as with any medical condition, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So how much endurance training is too much? Extensive research suggests that the health benefits of exercise top out at about 10 metabolic equivalents (METS), a level far below that attained during a sprint or a 25-mph bike ride. But, as Dr. La Gerche writes, “All athletes know that their motivation... [is] not based on statistics but on the immediate satisfaction that comes from practice. You are more likely to be killed by a car when riding than you are to die of a heart attack, and yet cyclists do not spend all of their cycling hours avoiding this risk on a wind trainer.” With a clear bill of health from your doctor and a clear understanding of the risks, you should feel confident tackling that next marathon or hill climb—wholeheartedly. Photo Credit for the Healthy Human Heart: CC: Jumpingtree1992 Photo Credit the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy image: CC: Blausen.com staff. “Blausen gallery 2014”. Wikiversity Journal of Medicine. DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.010. ISSN 20018762.

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Molly writes about fitness and nutrition from her home in Portland, Oregon. When she’s not at her desk, you can find her teaching history, hiking the Gorge, or hitting the archery range.

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Photos courtesy of Tracy D. Christensen/Wasatch Backcountry Rescue.

Backcountry Rescue Dogs

How These Pups Sniff Out Victims, Save Lives By Alexa V. Morgan

Being trapped or buried in the backcountry is a skier’s worst nightmare— injured, lost, and alone, willing to give anything to see a friendly face. Perhaps that face will belong to Ninja, a 5-year-old pointer/lab mix employed as an avalanche search and rescue dog at Deer Valley Resort in Park City. Sue Anderson, who works as the resort’s avalanche mitigation supervisor, brought Ninja home when he was only 49 days old. He spent his first summer riding the chairlifts and socializing with hundreds of visitors. Deer Valley has two or three avalanche dogs patrolling on any given day during the ski season, and Ninja accompanies Anderson to work each day and rides the lift to his assigned sector. His outgoing personality makes him popular with skiers, especially kids. “He loves to work, but he also loves people,” says Anderson. “But the second I walk into the shack, he’s ready if I need him.” Though the slopes at Deer Valley are usually quiet, Anderson and Ninja also respond to emergencies in the remote mountain wilderness as members of Wasatch Backcountry Rescue. Founded in 1976, WBR is a nonprofit, volunteer partnership between professional ski patrollers from nine area resorts: Solitude, Brighton, Alta, Powder Mountain, Snowbasin, Snowbird, Park City, Deer Valley, 16

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and Sundance, plus the Utah Department of Transportation. Other affiliates include AirMed, Life Flight, the Utah Department of Public Safety, the Utah Avalanche Center, and law enforcement across five counties: Salt Lake, Summit, Wasatch, Weber, and Utah. WBR is much more than dogs, president Tracy D. Christensen says, but canine search has always been an integral part of their rescue efforts. “Dogs come into play when people don’t have an avalanche beacon,” he says. “They find human scent. They dig and bark to signal when they find the scent and demonstrate victim loyalty; they don’t leave their target.” German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, English Shepherds, and mixes are among the 41 dogs currently in the WBR program. Some are purchased from breeders, while others are adopted from shelters. “There’s a lot of work and research that goes into the selection of our dogs,” Christensen says. “We’re looking for a high-drive dog that has a lot of desire to be the pack leader out there.” Puppies begin training at six to eight weeks old. They spend their first year as a C-level dog, learning basic obedience and social skills while becoming familiar with riding on chairlifts, snowmobiles, and helicopters.

teams must re-certify every other year. “It’s not easy,” Christensen says. “Once you get certified, it’s continued training year-round with these dogs.” At age eight or nine, handlers typically evaluate a dog’s overall health and fitness to determine what the next step in their career should be. Some dogs retire then, but others have stayed on until age 11. Anderson has been involved with WBR for 15 years, and Ninja is her second avalanche dog and she tries to do a drill or obedience lesson with him every day. In the summer of 2015, the duo expanded their proficiency to urban and non-winter wilderness searches. They were deployed to southern Utah in September following a deadly flash flood. “His primary focus is being an avalanche dog, but it would be a shame to have such a good work dog that I couldn’t use year-round,” she says. WBR members meet every month to discuss and practice the latest, most efficient rescue techniques, and the Anderson/Ninja duo has traveled as far as Switzerland for training opportunities. Dogs are more frequently used to clear an avalanche site and ensure no one was caught beneath the snow than to find a specific victim, says Christensen, which he credits to improved ski safety education in recent years. The number of deployments WBR dogs receive each season varies greatly depending on weather conditions and snowpack. “If we don’t get called out, that’s a good day for us,” he says.

Wasatch Backcountry Rescue dogs are trained using the Swiss 4 Phase Progression: 1. The owner teases their dog with a toy, and then jumps into a large hole in the snow. Another person gives the command to search before letting the dog loose to try and track down his owner.

But when they’re needed, backcountry first responders—on two legs or four—are up for the job. Learn more about Wasatch Backcountry Rescue by visiting wbrescue.org.

2. Next, the hole is partially—and then completely—blocked by snow, forcing the dog to dig to reach his owner. By now, he has figured out that “Search!” means it’s time to go sniff out his toy. 3. The other person is given the toy next, so the dog learns that he isn’t always going to find his owner. 4. Finally, the owner sends their dog in to search for someone else. Repetition of these stages and positive reinforcement are key, Anderson says. After mastering the Swiss method, a dog/handler team may obtain their B-level certification, allowing them to participate in rescue operations within the boundaries of the resort for which they work. With an A-level certification, a team is authorized to respond to any Utah avalanche incident. In the A-level test, teams are given a 100 X 100-yard square search field, beneath which one to three “victims” are buried. Distractions and possible clues—including clothing and other objects—have also been placed in the snow. The handler must flag these items and work with their dog to clear the entire area within 20 minutes, followed by an oral examination by certified evaluators. In addition to management of their search dog, handlers must be proficient in avalanche rescue skills, shoveling and probing techniques, and wilderness first aid.

Alexa has been a freelance writer and photographer in southern Utah since 2011. Find her on Twitter @alexavmorgan or get in touch directly at furryfurbi@gmail.com.

WBR dogs also undergo an obedience test every year. A-level [ sportsguidemag.com

Trailsides ]

[ Early Winter 2016 ] 17

Gift Holiday Guide

Gift Guide

43 Picks for Everyone on Your List By Melissa McGibbon & Jenny Willden

CAMPERS AND ROADTRIPPERS 3

1. Coleman Rugged Axe Every outdoorsperson needs an axe. Use this heavy-duty carbon one to easily split wood for your campfire; wear flannel and pose like a lumberjack to get the full effect. $19 coleman.com

2. Snow Peak Candle Lantern Make camping romantic again with this long-burning flamelight. Perfect for using up nearly empty fuel canisters. $40 snowpeak.com 5

3. Therm-A-Rest Down Pillow Attention fluffy feather pillow lovers: you need this for camping. Updated with 650-fill stay-dry hydrophobic down with space to stuff clothing for more support. $30–$40 thermarest.com 4. Therm-A-Rest Honcho Poncho If a sleeping bag and a sweatshirt had a baby, it would look like the Honcho Poncho. Crazy cozy and doubling as a blanket or pillow, it makes cold camping mornings and fireside nights better. $130 thermarest.com 5. Rumpl Superfleece Blanket Take your gear obsession into the bedroom (or van) with this technical blanket made to repel water, stains, and bacteria while keeping you toasty. This Jeremy Jones design is limited edition—get it while you can. $149–$249 gorumpl.com 6. Leatherman Tread Multi-Tool This is one seriously enviable multi-tool. Get screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, hex drives, and even a bottle opener in a stylish, sizeadjustable wrist accessory. $165 leatherman.com

7. Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Jacket Meet your new favorite down jacket. The welded baffles and soft, stretchy fabric move with you during any activity, and Q.Shield® down fill repels water to keep it warm and lofty even when wet. $250 mountainhardwear.com 18

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sportsguidemag.com ]

Holiday

Gift FURBABIES

1. Zuke’s Treats Your furbabies want to eat healthy too. Try these snacks made from safe, natural, nutrient-dense ingredients to keep your pup energized. Prices vary. zukes.com

Guide

2. GoPro Fetch Dog Harness Get a dog’s-eye view with this harness featuring back and chest camera mounts for different perspectives from over-the-head to playing fetch. $39 gopro.com

3. Thundershirt Sport Does your dog suffer from anxiety at the sound of thunder? This shirt helps calm anxious pups by applying gentle, constant pressure, similar to swaddling an infant. $44 thundershirt.com

4. Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat Don’t leave your best friend behind when you go paddling. Use this dog PFD with a strong handle and reflective trim to keep him safe and visible. $79 ruffwear.com 5. PetChatz Connect with your four-legged friends from anywhere using this pet audio and video camera system—you can even use it to remotely dispense treats. Pair with PawCall and your pet can call you. $379 petchatz.com

CAMP CHEFS

1. De-fishing Soap For strong odors like fish, smoke, and onions, try this waterway-safe soap. Perfect for washing dishes and your hands while camping or fishing, and the unique formula actually rinses away odors. Available in 5ml travel packs perfect for stuffing in stockings. $.99–$6.99 defishingsoap.com 2. Kyocera Camp Kitchen Knife Lightweight and rustproof, this knife is ideal for camp meal prep. Comes with sheath for safe storage and transport. $35 kyoceraadvancedceramics.com

3. Platypus MetaTM Bottle+ Microfilter From backcountry camping to globetrotting, this pump-free bottle/filter combo cleans water fast and effectively for total peace of mind. Uses hollow fiber technology to remove 99.9% of bacteria and protozoa. $50 platypushydration.com

4 6

4. Therm-A-Rest Uno Chair Festival-height and super lightweight, this chair’s a winner for Red Butte concerts and camping trips alike. Bonus: Its circular base converts into a tiny table for extra versatility. $90 thermarest.com 5. Big Agnes Helinox Table This low-to-the-ground table pairs well with Uno chairs and is great for backpacking and concertgoing. Two cup holders secure drinks, leaving plenty of space for prepping food or playing games. $120 bigagnes.com 6. Yeti Tundra Cooler This all-purpose cooler features three inches of PermaFrost insulation, is UV resistant, and practically bombproof. Depending on the size, the Tundra can hold 20-222 cans of beer. $299+ yeti.com [ sportsguidemag.com

Gear ]

[ Early Winter 2016 ] 19

Holiday

ADVENTURE SEEKERS

Gift

1. Patagonia Lightweight Travel Mini Hip Pack Fanny packs are back in style, except now they’re called hip packs. This one is lightweight, durable, and stows into its own pocket for economy packing. $29 patagonia.com 2. Black Diamond Iota Headlamp Don’t let this rechargeable headlamp’s size fool you—it features a DoublePower, 150-lumen LED with full strength, dimming, and strobe settings. $39 blackdiamondequipment.com

Guide

3. Sea to Summit 20L Hydraulic Dry Bag Any watersports enthusiast will appreciate this super heavy-duty dry bag. Designed to withstand extreme conditions and securely seal for waterproof performance. $49 seatosummit.com 4. Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pant Whether you’re sitting on a plane or climbing all day, you’ll want to be wearing these versatile, comfortable pants. No one will judge you if you sleep in them too. $70 mountainhardwear.com 5. Columbia Kline Falls Shirt Jacket Outdoor guys will love this travel-ready button-down that marries the best features of a shirt and jacket. Insulated front and back panels and fleecelined pockets take the chill out of cold days. $98 columbia.com

5 6

6. Sony RX100 IV Camera Capture moments your phone can’t keep up with, from fast skiing to roasting s’mores around a campfire and paddling on a lake in darkness. The RX1000 IV fits in your back pocket and is powered by an incredible sensor that shoots clearly at high-speeds and in low-light. Shoot 4K movies, high-speed, and super slow-mo too—features long available only in pro cameras. $899 sony.com

FITNESS FANTATICS

1. Balega V-Tech Enduro Socks You can never have too many socks, but this pair’s hand-linked toe closure, seamless fit, and enhanced arch compression will make it your runner’s new favorite. $12–$14 balega.com

2. FlipBelt This armband alternative stash phones, keys, and accessories around your waist while on the go. $28 flipbelt.com 3. MyPakage Men’s Pro Series 2-in-1 Tight Designed for men who wear shorts over tights, these combine two layers into a single waistband with a supportive liner for comfort during athletic pursuits. $90 usa.mypakage.com

4 3

4. Brooks Women’s Threshold Shirt She’ll love ditching the dreadmill and running outdoors in this moisturewicking thermal top. The longer length and high neckline keep wind and cold out. $90 brooksrunning.com 5. Brooks Mazama Trail Running Shoes For runners who wanna go fast, this grippy shoe sticks to slick, rocky trails so you can focus on the run—not your feet. $140 brooksrunning.com 6. Lululemon Men’s Surge Thermo Running Vest Staying warm—without overheating—is key for winter workouts. This vest’s Primaloft Active Silver Insulation is toasty, but breathable, and is coated in DWR to keep your man dry in wet weather. $198 lululemon.com

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sportsguidemag.com ]

Holiday

GLOBETROTTERS

Gift

1. Espro Travel Press Designed for coffee and tea lovers who prefer French Press-style, this travel-size press is strong enough to survive the harshest conditions and keeps beverages hot for up to six hours. $37 espro.ca

2. PacSafe RFID-Blocking Travel Pouch Prevent thieves from accessing private microchip information in your passport and credit cards with this RFIDsafe blocking material-lined pouch with internal organization for cards. $39 pacsafe.com

Guide

3. Camelbak All Clear Uses UV technology to turn tap and natural water into potable drinking water in 60 seconds. Don’t leave the country without it. $99 camelbak.com 4. Pakpod When documenting adventures, bring along this durable, waterproof, freezeproof tripod, which weighs less than a pound and packs to under a foot long. $99 pakpod.com

5. Forsake Women’s Loop Shoes Styled for the street but built for the trails, these waterproof, breathable shoes are perfect for traveling when space is limited and you need a do-everything pair. $129 forsake.com

6. Cotopaxi Nazca Backpack The ultimate carry-on, this bag unzips like a suitcase to keep everything organized and accessible. Protects your gear in transit thanks to padded laptop sleeve and fleece-lined sunglass pocket. $140 cotopaxi.com

7. Maloja GraceM Hooded Vest A smart addition to your bike or travel backpack, this hooded vest is windproof and PrimaLoft Silver 60 insulated but cute enough to wear everywhere. $161 malojaclothing.com

OUTDOOR FAMILIES 1. GSI Outdoors Roll-Up 5-in-1 Game Set Keep the whole family entertained with checkers, backgammon, chess, ludo, and snakes and ladders with this five-in-one game set. Rolls up into compact 8” x 8” mesh travel pack. $19 gsioutdoors.com

2. Patagonia Reversible Puff-Ball Vest So cute you might want one for yourself. Tots love these reversible, insulated vests made from recycled polyester. Wind-resistant and water repellent—they’re practically kid-proof. $41–$69 patagonia.com

3. Keen Kid’s Elsa Boots Built for wintry weather, this adorable waterproof boot is insulated to keep toes toasty. Bungee closure makes it easy for kids to put on and take off themselves.$85 keenfootwear.com 4. Cairn Obsidian Box If your partner loves surprises, an Obsidian box subscription is the perfect gift. Each box is curated to their interests and contains 5–10 items like apparel, survival and camping gear, electronics, skin care items, and food valued at over $300. $199 getcairn.com

5. Arc’Teryx Men’s Atom LT Jacket Dads love this essential winter mid-layer because it has the comfort and warmth of a sleeping bag, but weighs almost nothing. $239 arcteryx.com 6. Triple F.A.T. Goose Arkona Coat Every mom deserves a beautiful, warm winter coat, and the Arkona delivers. Premium white goose down stuffing and water-resistant fabric keeps her warm and dry. $450 triplefatgoose.com [ sportsguidemag.com

Gear ]

[ Early Winter 2016 ] 21

Cinnabar

Après Ski Adventures 5 Must-Visit Ski Resort Lounges By Melissa McGibbon If you only go to the resorts to play in the powder, you’re missing out. Utah’s ski and snowboard resorts have much more to offer than lift rides and snowy slopes. Each resort’s unique atmosphere is replete with niche hot spots where good eats and drinks are the perfect complement to après ski adventures. Also, if you’re really at the resorts just to show off your new faux fur (note: real fur—always tacky) trimmed outfit, there’s no need to wait for beer thirty: You can revel in the many see-and-be-seen locales on the mountain bell to bell.

THE FARM - PARK CITY MOUNTAIN Located 32 miles east of Salt Lake City, Park City Mountain is America’s largest ski and snowboard resort, boasting 7,300 acres of skiable terrain ranging from beginner to expert. The Farm features an innovative menu focusing on regionally sourced ingredients and offers indoor and outdoor dining. Found in the heart of Canyons Village, this rustic restaurant features a welcoming lounge with a great selection of wines. At The Farm, you’ll find fresh, prepared from scratch, sustainably raised fare. The charcuterie board is one of the most popular dishes and is paired with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Try the Canyons Cider Cocktail or the Park City Sour; both are made with local High West whiskey.

CINNABAR - SNOWBASIN RESORT Nestled behind Mount Ogden, in Huntsville, Utah, Snowbasin Resort combines 3,000 acres of skiing with world-class lodges. Steeped in history, the resort opened in 1940 and is one of the oldest continually operating ski and snowboard areas in the United States. The resort’s elegant lodges feature stunning views, grand fireplaces, and marble finishes. Snowbasin’s award-winning slopeside restaurants include Cinnabar, the perfect place to defrost with a specialty hot cocoa made with locally crafted vanilla custard vodka, chocolate liqueur, and house-made hot 22

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cocoa with whipped cream. Or, if you want something a little more spicy, try the Cinnabar Bloody Mary made with top-shelf vodka and a house-made mix, served with bleu cheese-stuffed olives and asparagus. Pair these specialty cocktails with the Utah cheese and Italian meats plate, or the mini flatbreads trio. If you’re visiting the resort sans skis, you can still enjoy the posh amenities of the mid-mountain lodges via a gondola ride, such as the John Paul Lodge, which serves up 360-degree panoramic views along with signature dishes.

GOLDMINER’S DAUGHTER SALOON ALTA SKI AREA Alta Ski Area is in the heart of the town of Alta, Utah, and owns its place in history as the first lift-served ski resort in Utah. Since 1938, Alta’s been known for its legendary terrain and consistently accumulating more snow than any other resort in Utah (and indeed most other resorts worldwide), with an average snowfall of 520” per season. Good news—you don’t have to be a skier to enjoy Alta’s many comforts, including the authentic atmosphere at Goldminer’s Daughter Saloon. Even snowboarders can enjoy the surreal views of Mount Superior with a local craft beer and a mountain of tasty pizza. You might even find yourself thawing out next to some of the famous Alta personalities and professional athletes who are regulars here. An affordable pint of PBR and delicious plate of Goldminer’s Nachos are hard to say no to in the world of highfalutin, spendy ski lodge lunches.

Après ski at the Owl Bar is a one-of-a-kind experience. The restored bar dates back to the 1890s and was moved from Thermopolis, Wyoming, to its home at Sundance. The original Rosewood Bar was once frequented by Butch Cassidy’s Wild Bunch gang, so have a drink at the bar where the infamous outlaws did too. The Owl Bar menu’s inventive seasonal selection includes charcuterie, fish tacos, wings, and pizza. Hot toddies, craft beers, and selections from their private label wine list make this a great spot to relax at after a cold day on the mountain.

The Owl Bar

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WE HAVE TWIN TIP SKIS! TRY OUR DEMOS & GET HALF BACK! Twelve miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon, you’ll find Solitude Mountain Resort. Delighting skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities since 1957, Solitude is known for its diverse terrain and short lift lines. In 2015, Deer Valley Resort purchased Solitude and invested $7 million in SkiTruck.Nov.2015.indd 1 11/11/15 improvements, including adding some of Deer Valley’s cuisine, like their famous turkey chili, to the resort’s menus.

Locals have been longtime fans of the Thirsty Squirrel for mid-day breaks and après drinks and dining, especially lovers of turkey chili nachos. The great views, classic pub fare, and relaxing atmosphere—along with shots and beer specials—make this place a favorite watering hole of ski patrollers and their patrol dog sidekicks after work. Who doesn’t want to hang out with patrol puppies after a great day of skiing?

Thirsty Squirrel Melissa McGibbon is the Senior Editor of Outdoor Sports Guide magazine. She is an award-winning journalist and is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers. She is usually in pursuit of adventure, travel, or some daring combination of the two. IG @missmliss // melissamcgibbon.com

[ sportsguidemag.com

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[ Early Winter 2016 ] 23

11:11 A

Anna will tell you losing her legs has changed her for the better. At the time she was a 17-year-old girl studying Music Therapy at Colorado State University. Anna describes herself then as being in a very bad place emotionally and not feeling the joy of life prior to the accident. But as she healed physically and mentally from the accident, her life was transformed.

JOY OF SKIING During an emotionally dark time in the hospital, Anna finally got sick of it and said to herself, “Give up or get up.” Four months after the accident she began mono-ski (sit-ski) lessons with Wasatch Adaptive Sports (wasatchadaptivesports.org) at Snowbird, Utah. Her skills progressed at an exponential rate, which in turn expedited her intrinsic recovery. “I saw what skiing did for me. As my physical recovery improved, my mental and emotional recovery improved. It’s like skiing gave my body a purpose again, instead of just being this damaged thing wheeling around in a chair,” says Anna, who soon became an instructor for the adaptive sports program at Snowbird. To this day, she loves watching the program change others like it changed her, “It’s like there’s power in me now. To be able to see that in my students as they harness that power they didn’t know they had anymore, it’s amazing.” Anna believes outdoor sports provide an intrinsic appreciation for our bodies, “When I’m skiing, I’m able-bodied again. The fact that I don’t have any legs doesn’t mean anything on the ski hill. When I’m in the mountains, when I’m skiing, I feel whole.”

PARALYMPIC ASPIRATIONS Currently, Anna is training full-time for Paralympic ski races. With a World Cup bronze medal under her belt, she is a strong contender for the national team with her sights set on qualifying for the 2018 Paralympic Games. While focusing on skiing as a career, she sees skiing as a major source for personal well-being.

Anna Beninati

Skiing Brought Her Joy After Losing Her Legs By Amy David

Everyone has challenges to overcome. Anna’s perspective on life is one we can all learn from. In addition to her athletic pursuits, she is a public speaker spreading the message of normalizing the human experience for people with disabilities and trusting your instincts.

LIFE LESSONS FROM ANNA •

Follow your gut: “If you get a feeling that something’s not right, no matter what the situation is, don’t do it.”

•

Choose your perspective: When life gets you down, decide to move on with a positive, ambitious attitude.

“You realize how much you have to be thankful for when you almost die.” - Anna Beninati

On September 5, 2011 Anna Beninati’s life changed forever. She was running at full speed alongside a moving freight train, leapt towards the ladder on the side, grabbed ahold of the bars, got her right leg up, and realizing her left leg was dragging, slowly let go. Minutes before the attempt to jump onto the train, Anna’s mind was rushing. She says, “I had a very clear feeling for several minutes before I ever ran for that train. Just thinking, something tells me I’m not gonna get on that train. Something tells me this is going to go really, really badly.” Seconds later her head hit the ground, and she felt her femur snap as the train ran over her legs just below her hips. 24

[ Early Winter 2016 ]

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Photo Credit: Croshane Media

NEAR-DEATH ACCIDENT

Photo Credit: Croshane Media

•

Don’t take no for an answer: “If that’s what you want, find a way to make it happen because there’s somebody who sees the same dream as you and will help you achieve it.”

•

Learn from your mistakes: “In your life, you will make mistakes. (Like trying to jump onto a moving freight train…) And when you make those mistakes the worst thing you can do is dwell on what could have been. What is, is. You can’t change that. So live without regret, and learn to move forward. Own your mistakes, but don’t let them own you.”

•

Own your power: “You never know how strong you are until strength is the only choice you have. When the time comes that you need resiliency, you may be surprised by your own capability.”

2016 World Cup Final Slalom

Photo Credit: Adam Clark

Amy David is an outdoor sports athlete and content producer. She grew up in the mountains of Wyoming and spends the majority of her time guiding wilderness trips, producing outdoor-themed media, and seeking adrenaline rushes on skis. With a degree in the Psychology of Communication and minor in Outdoor Education and Leadership, her work fuses the outdoor and entertainment industries. Keep up with her adventures at @AmyJaneDavid.

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[ Early Winter 2016 ] 25

Running with Kids

5. FAMILY-FRIENDLY PARK RUN

By Lora Erickson Do your kids hate running? There’s a way to change that. As a mother of four, I’ve learned a thing or two about involving children in fitness. Here I’ve compiled my best ideas for making running fun and getting your kids excited about running with you. Try these activities, and they’ll be running races with you in no time.

6. LOCAL TRACK RUN

8 Fun & Creative Workouts Kids Love

1. EXPLORER RUN

Instead of running your regular route, go and explore a new neighborhood. Let your child choose the direction at each turn and have fun finding new streets. Pay attention so you know how to get back. Smaller children can always ride their bike while you run.

2. REVERSE ROUTE

If you’re bored with your regular running routes, but don’t have the time to map out new ones, just do them in reverse. You’ll be amazed at how different it might look going the opposite direction. Bring your children along with you!

3. GLOW NIGHT RUNS

In the winter when it gets dark early, it’s hard to fit a run in. But glow sticks make it easy and fun! I don’t know about your kids, but mine have always loved glow sticks. I also have cool light up vests (Tracer 360 by noxgear.com, get 20% off with code BLONDERUN) and invite my children on short evening runs with me in the dark. We decorate ourselves with glow necklaces and use headlamps to enjoy fitness and laughter together.

4. MY JAM MUSIC RUN

Bring music along and after warming up, run hard for one song and then easy for next. Invite your child do the same and have fun passing each other back-and-forth, or stay together. Don’t be afraid to experiment with changing it up. Run hard for two songs and easy for three songs or vice versa. Make the workout as long or short as you want it, and let your child pick when to run hard or easy. 26

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Start by choosing a nearby park and running to it. This run can be done easily with all ages by pushing a stroller with your child in it or having kids ride their scooters, skateboards, or rollerblades to keep up with you. At the park, have your kids join you in core exercises: push-ups, lunges, and your own strength routine. If they have monkey bars, do some pull-ups. No equipment needed. Track runs can be great fun for kids! A typical track is approximately 400 meters around making it four laps to a mile. Often they are broken up into four 100-meter sections, which you can do different exercises in to break up a run. Try lunges, grapevines, dancing, jump rope, and let your children contribute ideas of their own. Be prepared to do silly things like run like a monkey, or hop like a bunny. Running form drills can also be done at the track. Learn more at BlondeRunner.com.

7. LEAP FROG

Invite your neighbors or friends for a fun family night at the track or around a neighborhood block. I suggest five to eight people for best results. Have everyone run in a single-file line and every hundred meters or so the last person sprints up to the front and then leads for a predesignated distance (i.e. 100 meters, .1 mile, etc.). This is usually done after warm-up and can add up to two to five miles of running. It’s a fun, but challenging, workout that all ages will enjoy.

8. LOCAL RACES

Local races are a great way to get involved in the community. These can be fun to train for together and can become healthy family traditions. Many local races offer kids Ks and other family-friendly events. Visit sportsguidemag.com for a race calendar of upcoming local events. Coach Lora Erickson is a nationally ranked triathlete and longtime runner and certified running & triathlon coach. She is the mother of four children and loves to promote family fitness. She offers custom designed training plans online as well as in-person coaching. To learn more, visit BlondeRunner.com or join her annual charity race at RaceForGrief.com.

Come discover Snowbasin Resort. Where wide open highway leads to wide open runs. Where two gondolas whisk you to 3,000 perfectly skiable acres—and 3,000 vertical feet of unspoiled bliss is attainable by a single lift. This is Snowbasin Resort. A9R708746.pdf

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[CLINICS AND EVENTS | RUNNING | TRIATHLON & MULTISPORT | WATERSPORTS | WINTERSPORTS] medal only if they eat a treat from the Sugar Shack aid station each time they pass it.

CLINICS AND EVENTS JANUARY 28–29

SKI TO LIVE TWO-DAY IMMERSION Ski to Live offers two

camp options. 10AM-4PM each day. Both offer an experience with Kristen’s Game of 10,000 Voices and the camaraderie of amazing, like-minded people. In either camp you will receive personalized attention on and off slope, to help you identify and break free of any places where you’re stuck. You will experience how easy it is to get unstuck. You will receive guidance to take you into whatever unique flow state you desire, which best serve your goals in skiing and in life. kristenulmer.com

RUNNING DECEMBER 3

UTAH SANTA RUN - PROVO (RUNNERS WEAR SANTA SUITS)

The Shops at Riverwoods, Provo, UT. All registered runners get a full and complete Santa Suit to run this 5K in. Along the course you will find milk and cookie stops (with water) to aid the Santas on their journey. Christmas Music plays overhead. This race is followed by a Christmas Concert. runsanta.com

DECEMBER 3

WINTER SUN 10K Moab, UT. A

fast course, great raffle prizes, and delicious finish food make this 10K a good reason to visit Moab when the air is crisp and the skies are blue and sunny. moabhalfmarathon.com

DECEMBER 10

HOOVER DAM MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, 10K, 5K Lake

bakersdozenhalfmarathon.com

DECEMBER 31 –JANUARY 1

BEAT THE NEW YEAR 5K Sugar

House Park, Salt Lake City, UT. Beat the clock countdown to 2017! The race starts at 11:30 p.m. and the goal is to finish before 12:00 a.m. Jan 1, 2017! Stay tuned for special events celebrating 40 years of BTNY. slctrackclub.org/btny

JANUARY 1

LIFE TIME FITNESS COMMITMENT DAY 5K Life Time Fitness,

10996 S. River Front Pkwy, South Jordan, UT. Start off on the right foot at this New Year’s Day 5K run or walk sponsored by Life Time Fitness. Just $25 for adults. Kids 13 and under race FREE with paying adult. commitmentday.com

JANUARY 7

ABOMINABLE RUN Gardner

Village, West Jordan, UT. 5K winter run. gardnervillageraces.com/ abominablerun.html

JANUARY 14

LAKE MEAD MARATHON, HALF MARATHON, 10K & 5K RUN Lake

Mead National Recreation Area, NV. Run starts at Boulder Beach and leads you onto the paved Mountain Loop Trail. Offering Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, this run will take you on an epic journey up a mountainous paved trail. bbscrun.com

5K FEBRUARY 4 10K MARCH 4 15K APRIL 1

RUN SLC RACE SERIES Salt Lake

Mead National Recreation Area, NV. Run starts at Boulder Beach and leads you onto the paved Mountain Loop Trail until you reach the packed-dirt Historic Railroad Trail. Offering a Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and relay, this run will take you all the way to Hoover Dam and back to Boulder Beach.

Running, Salt Lake CITY, UT. Get a start on spring training and beat the winter blues with this races series by Salt Lake Running Company. Do one race or all. Every races starts and ends at their Sugar House store and are open to all ages and abilities. Work your way up from the 5K to the 15K and receive a Run mug for each race you complete. runslcseries.com

DECEMBER 10

TRIATHLON & MULTISPORT

bbscrun.com

BAKER’S DOZEN HALF MARATHON AND 5K Hurricane, UT. Race

a 5K or half marathon—all while downing treats (cupcakes, cookies, donuts) along the way. Runners race a 3.25-mile loop course with half marathoners looping four times and 5K participants looping once. Half marathon runners receive a

[ Early Winter 2016 ]

JANUARY 21

2017 KOPFC WINTER INDOOR TRI-SERIES Kearns, UT. Rather

than racing over a fixed distance as traditional triathlons are designed to do, this indoor triathlon will have you race for the greatest distance you can within a fixed timeframe. You will compete for a total of 1 hour

[ Calendar

sportsguidemag.com ]

(with 2 transitions) no matter how fast anyone is. You will receive a score based on the distance you complete in each of the disciplines (swim, bike, run), and an overall score based on those combined scores. Registration opened on Black Friday and typically sells out early. kopfc.com

DECEMBER 31

NEW YEAR’S REVOLUTION RUN AND RIDE If you prefer indoor

running for your New Year’s run, join 365 runners and walkers for a five-hour indoor running party at the Utah Olympic Oval. Do as many laps as you like on the indoor track and receive a medal if you complete a full marathon. You can also participate by bringing a bike or trainer along, or mix it up and do a bike/run combo. newyearsrevolutionrun.com

WATERSPORTS DECEMBER 1–23

CHRISTMAS CRUISE AT CLAS ROPES COURSE Provo, UT. Come

and enjoy a lighted Christmas riverboat ride on the Provo River. What you can expect: Thousands of lights reflecting off the water; Cruise boat seating up to 40 people; Holiday scenes along the shore; Christmas music. Round trip taking approx. 20-25 minutes. Since the boats are uncover blankets and warm clothes are strongly encouraged. clasropes.com

WINTERSPORTS DECEMBER 4

DEER VALLEY CELEBRITY SKIFEST

Watch Olympic ski legends be paired with television and film celebrities at this annual invitational ski event to fundraise for the environmental group, Waterkeeper Alliance. Come watch the giant slalom ski races on the Birdseye ski run. dvskifest.com

DECEMBER 19–20

SKI TO LIVE SKI CAMPS 2 Great

if you want to trouble shoot specific ski or life questions, finding clear, physically embodied answers which will affect the way you experience not just skiing, but everything. Intermediate to expert skiers, men and women. $590 Camp Only. kristenulmer.com/options/ ski-to-live

DECEMBER 17, JANUARY 7, 28, FEBRUARY 11 AND 25 WASATCH CITIZENS, CROSS COUNTRY RACE SERIES TUNA

(The Utah Nordic Alliance) hosts their popular Nordic races series

beginning in December at major cross-country ski venues along the Wasatch. Two classic and three free technique races are offered with categories for age, gender, and ability level, so all can participate and compete. Points are accumulated throughout the season with prizes awarded to top three skiers in each class. utahnordic.com

DECEMBER 24

CHRISTMAS EVE PARADE AND FIREWORKS Snowbird, UT.

There’s no place like Snowbird for the holidays! Join us at dusk on the Plaza Deck for bonfires, the Torchlight Parade and a great fireworks display. At the end, Santa Claus will rappel out of the Tram to say hello to the kids! snowbird.com

JANUARY 13

POW DAY Change your routine

and raise awareness about carpooling and/or taking UTA to Utah’s ski resorts on POW (Protect Our Winters) Day. Four resorts (Alta, Snowbird, Sundance, Powder Mountain) are offering perks to participants. Carpool with at least three people and get priority parking at every resort, a POW Day Discrete beanie, and the peace of mind knowing you helped reduce carbon emissions that day. Bus riders receive beanies too. skiutah.com

JANUARY 20–22

SOLITUDE U.S. SNOWBOARDCROSS GRAND PRIX Watch

ski- and snowboardcross champions compete at the first major international skiing and snowboarding competition to come to Big Cottonwood Canyon. The finals for these skicross and snowboardcross events are free for the public to attend, from noon to 2:00 p.m. skisolitude.com

JANUARY 21

SNOWSHOE STOMP 5K A course

with open terrain, wooded areas, stream crossing, some down & up hills and flat trails. sports-am.com

FEBRUARY 1-4

DEER VALLEY FIS FREESTYLE WORLD CUP Watch athletes

from around the world compete in moguls, dual moguls, and aerials. Fun begins with a FREE concert on lower Main Street in Park City at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1. Moguls held Thursday, Aerials Friday, and Dual Moguls Saturday; followed by fireworks. All events are free to the public. deervalley.com

Donate Now

UtahFoodBank.org

T:7”

WHEN THEY’RE TUNING YOU OUT.

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/KIDSBUCKLEUP

no one does more for as many. adopt one. help thousands.

utahhumane.org

HUMANE SOCIETY 2!UTAH

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NEVER GIVE UP UNTIL THEY BUCKLE UP.

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S N O W +

“I’ve skied Alta for all of my 25 years. Having a dad who was a 35-year Alta ski patroller made that possible. I learned to ski in the Alta Youth Club with a group of eight girls. We called ourselves the Mega Mountain Girls and they’re still some of my closest friends. From server and intern to yoga teacher and barista, my jobs at Alta have changed but my love for this place stays the same. Family is why I’m here and family is why I’ll stay.”

E L L I E J O H N S O N , Skier

Come for the snow. Return for the family. Buy your pass today — A LTA . C O M