SUMMER 2014
VOLUME 32 ISSUE 3
FREE
STR AYCATIONS
A 2014 Local’s Adventure Travel Guide For Grand Canyon Adventures | Moab Biking | Cache Valley Family Travel | Colorado Dude Ranches
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Start times: Non-licensed riders 7:00 am | USAC Licensed Riders 7:30 Awards Ceremony & Breakfast @ Porcupine Pub 9:30 am
what’s inside 10
STRAYCATIONS 2014 VOL. 32 NO. 3
13 PUBLISHER Dan Miller ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Paula Bell MANAGING EDITOR Jenny Willden CIRCULATION MANAGER/OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Cynthia Bell Snow
6 Starting Line
Editor’s Note, Snowbird Brewfest, Park City Food & Wine Festival, Venture Outdoors, Utah Arts Fest, Colorado Running Festival, Colorado Freeride Festival
8 Resort Report
Summer Happenings at Utah Resorts
Travel Tales
10
Mind the Gap: Adventuring in the Grand Canyon By Melissa McGibbon
13
Hey Dude! Getting Ranchy in the Colorado Rockies By Jenny Willden
16
Pedal Paradise: Moab Mountain Biking By BJ Platte
18
When in Cache Valley... Summer Shenanigans in Logan By Rachael Hodson
20
Cheers! Raise a glass to local makers of potent potables By Molly Newman
24 Gear
Getaway Gear: 29 Summer Travel Favorites By Jenny Willden and Melissa McGibbon
SUMMER 2014
VOLUME 32 ISSUE 3
FREE
STR AYCATIONS
A 2014 Local’s Adventure Travel Guide For Grand Canyon Adventures | Moab Biking | Cache Valley Family Travel | Colorado Dude Ranches
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED MILLS PUBLISHING, INC. PO BOX 526099 SALT LAKE CITY, UT 84152
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 3280 SALT LAKE CITY, UT Straycations 2014 Cover 1.indd 1
5/20/14 2:35 PM
ON THE COVER Grand Canyon Photo Credit: Ben Woodworth, twitter:@bwoodworth Moab Photo Credit: Derek Oldert Camping Photo Courtesy of Drowsy Water Ranch Horseback Riding Photo Credit: © istockphoto.com/amygdala_imagery
ASSOCIATE EDITORS Melissa McGibbon, Molly Newman CONTRIBUTORS Rachael Hodson, BJ Platte ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION MANAGER Jackie Medina GRAPHIC DESIGN Leslie Hanna, Ken Magleby, Patrick Witmer REGIONAL ADVERTISING SALES 801-467-9419 Paula Bell, Jim Copeland, Karen Malan, Paul Nicholas NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES Brook Gardner, Jeremy Solomon
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Kyrsten Holland OFFICE ASSISTANT/DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jessica Snow Distribution Inquiries Call 801-467-9419 DISTRIBUTION Rick Springer, Paige Silva, Jenny Willden
Find us on 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. Copyright 2014 by Mills Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.
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starting line FROM THE EDITOR Confession: Since my childhood days of watching Hey Dude on Nickelodeon I've dreamed of visiting a dude ranch. Last summer when I had the chance to stay at Colorado's finest ranches...I couldn't pass it up! Disconnecting from the digital world and spending a week on horseback in the mountains made me see why so many come back each year. Our second annual Straycation Issue features a story on this trip and others in Arizona and Utah. For the occasion, we've changed the focus of the Starting Line from races to festivals and have highlighted our favorites for your summer calendar. Flip to page 29 to learn about our Summer Social Media Photo Contest that celebrates our Instagram launch with incredible prizes: a digital camera, hotel stays, and restaurant gift cards.
JACKSON HOLE MOUNTAIN GAMES
Jackson Hole is kicking off summer with a huge three-day outdoor recreation festival June 20–22 that features mountain biking, bouldering, trail running, paragliding, and SUPing. Spectators and participants also enjoy free concerts, product demos, clinics, and kids’ competitions on Sunday. Register and get more information online. jhmountaingames.com
UTAH ARTS FESTIVAL
The state’s largest outdoor multidisciplinary arts event returns June 26–29 at Library Square in Salt Lake City. See unique works from talented artists, enjoy delicious ethnic cuisine, and watch live performances. Bike to the fest to save $2 on admission, and they’ll store your bike in a secure area. Utah’s own Color Me Rad 5K, where colored chalk is tossed on participants as they run by, takes place just outside the fest on Saturday, June 21. Save 10% on registration with discount code ARTS. uaf.org
Happy adventuring! Jenny Willden Comments, feedback, or complaints? Email editor@sportsguidemag. com or send mail to 772 E. 3300 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84106.
MILLCREEK VENTURE OUT
Bring your lawnchairs and blankets to Millcreek Township every Friday evening from June–August for FREE family-friendly movies paired with live music, outdoor recreation, and farmer’s markets at venues throughout the area. Visit the website for exact locations and movie options. millcreekventureout.org
SNOWBIRD BREWFEST
Enjoy a cold brew in the mountains over Father’s Day weekend (June 14–15) at Snowbird’s annual beer event that pairs Utah’s best brews with a barbecue to celebrate Dad. Listen to live music and visit craft vendors throughout the day while sampling your way through the festival. snowbird.com
WANDERLUST FESTIVAL ASPEN-SNOWMASS
Yogis from near and far will converge on Aspen/Snowmass, Colorado from July 3–6 for this four-day fest dedicated to yoga, music, meditation, and great food experienced in a breathtaking outdoor mountain setting. Get off your mat and enjoy the scenery during outdoor adventures like stand up paddleboarding, rafting, biking, hiking, and running. Popular lectures on mindful living, live music, and gourmet food and wine sampling events are a great break from the activity. Get your tickets online, which vary in price based on which events and activities you plan to attend. aspensnowmass.wanderlustfestival.com
TWILIGHT CONCERT SERIES
Watch live performances by The Head and the Heart, Lauryn Hill, Beck, and more at Salt Lake’s ever-growing summer outdoor concert series in Pioneer Park. Concerts take place every Thursday evening in July and August this season, and admission is just $5 a show. Season passes also available for a limited time. See the full lineup online. twilightconcertseries.com
PARK CITY FOOD AND WINE CLASSIC
You don’t need to travel far to enjoy this classic event celebrating wine, food, and outdoor adventures from July 9–13 in Park City. Don’t miss the Grand Tastings on Friday and Saturday from 4:00–7:00 p.m. where you’ll sample food provided by local restaurants and wine from around the world. Pair wine and food with outdoor recreation at seminars for mountain bikers, road cyclists, stand-up paddleboarders, and hikers. New this year is Dashing Through the Woods, a guided trail run followed by a catered lunch, and The Walk of Wine and Whiskey, a hike followed by lunch at High West Distillery paired with wine and whiskey tastings. Last year’s Hike & Hops is our favorite returning seminar. You’ll enjoy a scenic hike beginning at the top of Guardsman Pass that ends at the Montage Deer Valley where lunch and beer pairings await. Get your tickets quickly as these events sell out! parkcityfoodandwineclassic.com
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RIDE SUN VALLEY BIKE FESTIVAL
Sun Valley, Idaho’s 400 miles of continuous singletrack are yours to explore at this bike fest from June 27–June 29. Experienced riders can compete in the Sun Valley Super Enduro, one of the country’s longest Enduro races, while newer riders try free bike demos, races, or complimentary shuttled and guided rides to the area’s best trails. There’s even a mountain bike race for kids! ridesunvalley.com
KEITH LADZINSKI
starting line
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PALISADE PEACH FESTIVAL
Get a slice of peach pie and a host of other peach treats at Palisade, Colorado’s annual Peach Festival from August 14–17. This eclectic town near Grand Junction samples peach recipes at free cooking demonstrations and hosts a free peaches and ice cream evening social as part of the event along with live music, kids’ activities, winery tours, and a farmer’s market. palisadepeachfest.com
FRIENDLY STAFF, EXPERT SERVICE AND LOCAL ADVICE The source for all your climbing, skiing and mountain gear needs. BlackDiamondEquipment.com/store
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COLORADO RUNNING FESTIVAL
Get your kicks at this 2-day trail running and multi-sport festival held at Colorado’s Copper Mountain Resort from July 12–13. Six different trail race options: 5K, 10K, half marathon, duathlon, Twilight 10K Fun Run, and kid’s half-mile dash. The weekend also includes an expo, pasta lunch, live music, and family movie night. copperhalf.com
COLORADO FREERIDE FESTIVAL
Watch the world’s best mountain bikers return to Colorado’s Winter Park Resort to battle it out for prizes and bragging rights at this event from July 24–27. The 4-day festival features slopestyle, Enduro World Series racing, air downhill, and cross country. But the Fest isn’t only for pros! Bike demos are available in the Festivillage for everyone, and you can take downhill mountain biking lessons from instructors at Winter Park Resort. coloradofreeridefestival.com
OUTERBIKE
Demo next year's bikes on Moab's worldclass roads and trails at this gear testing event from October 1–5. Guided rides and clinics with your own bike are scheduled for October 1–2 with shuttled bike demo rides and afterparties from October 3–5. Rides available for beginner and advanced riders. Tickets available online. outerbike.com
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4
resort report See a different side of Utah’s ski resorts this summer! Seasonal activities like hiking, mountain biking, live music, festivals, and children’s programs for all open resorts are summarized here, but check websites for full details. Photo courtesy of Deer Valley Resort
Brian Head
Road trip to this Southern Utah resort for mountain biking and family fun without crowds. Every weekend, shuttles and chairlifts service over 200 miles of mountain biking trails, or try new tricks in the Mountain Bike Park. A self-guided activity course on scenic forest trails that includes gold panning, cattle roping, pictograph painting, and rock hounding is just $10 for adults and $5 for kids. brianhead.com
Canyons
Beginning June 12 you can choose from a multitude of summer fun options: mountain biking, hiking, fishing, pedal boating, put put golf, and disc golf. For an extreme, but safe, adventure, try the Zip Tour where you fly across the canyon between Lookout Peak and Red Pine Lodge on a zipline spanning 2,111 feet. Or learn the basics of biking on trails at a guided Mountain Biking 101 Clinic. The popular free Saturday Summer Concert Series returns on July 19 and continues weekly through August 30. thecanyons.com
Deer Valley
Ride challenging mountain biking trails, go on a scenic hike, or take a chairlift ride during summer season from June 13–September 1. While you enjoy a fun day outdoors, send your kids to their Summer Adventure Camp, which offers supervised outdoor activities for ages 2 months–12 years. deervalley.com
Park City Mountain Resort
Get your kicks on the zipline, alpine slide, alpine coaster, or climbing wall. Then venture into nature mountain biking, hiking, or taking a chairlift ride from Main Street. Base activities like the human maze, amusement park rides, and mini golf will delight younger kids. Open for summer May 23– October 19. parkcitymountain.com
Powder Mountain
Explore untracked terrain on a Summer Safari 4x4 Tour where you’ll see amazing scenery and wildlife. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 801-745-3772 or emailing adventures@powdermountain.com. powdermountain.com
Snowbasin
Hiking, singletrack mountain biking, disc golf, and kid’s activities are offered for summer beginning June 14. Shuttle service available for hikers and bikers on Saturdays and Sundays all season. Just hike or bike to the shuttle stop and they’ll drive you back to the resort. snowbasin.com
Snowbird
Ride down 3,120 feet of turns, drops, and loops at a speed controlled by the driver at Snowbird’s new Mountain Coaster. Add on all-day tickets to try the Alpine Slide, Ropes Course, Mountain Flyer, and climbing wall. Or enjoy scenic views on an Aerial Tram or Peruvian Charlift ride followed by a hike back to the base. Summer activities begin June 14. snowbird.com
Solitude
Chairlift rides and lift-served hiking or mountain biking are available on the Sunrise Chair Friday– Sunday starting June 13, or play a round of disc golf on their high-alpine course! On select summer dates, The Yurt is open for a five-course, chef-prepared dining experience preceded by an evening hike. skisolitude.com
Sundance
Scenic lift rides, downhill mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking are just a few summer activities that start mid-May and continue through October. Unique to Sundance, ride the chairlift under the full moonlight on a few summer and fall dates. sundanceresort.com
Utah Olympic Park
Located in Park City, the Olympic Park is a place for all-day adventures for kids and adults. Thrilling rides like the Comet Bobsled, Extreme Zipline, Ropes Course, and Alpine Slide keep the most adventurous entertained, but all-age activities are available too like park tours, chairlift rides, and museum visits. Watch the Flying Aces perform a choreographed freestyle aerial show on Sundays. utaholympiclegacy.com
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Mind the Gap: Adventures in the Grand Canyon By Melissa McGibbon
Photo Credit: Melissa McGibbon
I
fancy myself a world traveler, but as they say, you never visit the giant, gaping hole in your own backyard. I have been to more than 40 countries and countless destinations in the States. I have seen the sun rise or set at the Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, Great Wall, Machu Picchu, Haleakala, Table Mountain, and Sydney Opera House, to name a few. I’ve had dinner at Fidel Castro’s place in Havana (really) and gone diving with sharks in Fiji. They were harmless whitetip reef sharks, but still. Given its proximity to my homebase in Salt Lake City, a journey to the closest of the seven natural wonders of the world should have been cinched long ago, but adventures in the Grand Canyon always eluded me. I finally got a chance to go this spring and, gee, it sure is aptly named.
History
Formed between five and 17 million years ago, the Grand Canyon is 7,000 feet above sea level in the Colorado River basin. It’s 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and more than 6,000 feet deep. According to geologists, it deepens by the width of a single sheet of paper each year. In 1869, John Wesley Powell and a few of his pals led the first geographic expedition down the Canyon. It took them nearly three months to get some 900 miles from Green River, Wyoming to Grand Wash in the “Big Canyon.” Powell named it the Grand Canyon in 1871. In 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt declared it a National Monument and said, “The Grand Canyon fills me with awe. It is beyond comparison—beyond description; absolutely unparalleled throughout the wide world.” President Woodrow Wilson made it a national park in 1919.
Planes, Trains, and Classic Automobiles
The most fun way to arrive is by flying to Phoenix and driving three and a half hours through Saguaro Cactus-filled Sonoran Desert to the town of Williams. It’s home to a little stretch of historic Route 66, and you won’t want to miss the gift shops filled with every type of classic car souvenir in existence. From Williams, hop aboard the vintage diesel-powered train, operated by the Grand Canyon Railway, and enjoy a two-hour train ride to the South Rim. Interpretive tour information is given throughout the entire ride so you’ll be a veritable Grand Canyon expert by the time the train arrives. Kids love the non-stop entertainment from banjo-plucking musicians to train-robbing theatrics.
Rafting
One of the most popular ways to experience the Grand Canyon is to take a whitewater rafting trip through it. River trips last from three to 18 days and can be commercial (guided) or non-commercial (self-guided), but both require permits. Make reservations (nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/whitewater-rafting.htm) up to a year in advance. Before the National Park Service overhauled the permit lottery system in 2006, a 16-year wait was not uncommon. This 225-mile trip through the canyon launches at Lees Ferry and ends at Diamond Creek with a whole lot of hootin’ and hollerin’ in between. It’s largely recognized as one of the most coveted whitewater rafting trips in the world and features a full spectrum of flow from quiet ripples to churning thunder at Lava Falls, which has the highest concentration of Class IV rapids in the Canyon.
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Climbing
Yes, you can climb in the Grand Canyon! There are close to 50 sport and trad routes with difficulty levels ranging from 5.6 to 5.13. Here are Mountain Project’s top picks:
The Classics Mountain Project's determination of some of the classic, most popular, highest rated routes for Grand Canyon National Park: South Face 5.8 HHH NE Arete 5.9 HHHH North Face 5.10a C1 HHHH Southwest Ridge, 5.10+ R HHH Comanche Point Pegasus 5.10+ HHHH
Trad, 3 pitches, 300' Mount Hayden Trad, 6 pitches, 600' Zoroaster Temple Trad, Aid, 4 pitches, 250' Monument Creek Pinnacle: Monument Creek Pinnacle Sport, 12 pitches, 2800' Comanche Ridge (NW Ridge of…) Trad, 3 pitches, 350' Mount Hayden
Mule Rides
The overnight mule ride trip to Phantom Ranch is a great option, but the park also offers a new tour called the Canyon Vistas Ride, which travels along the South Rim. This half-day tour stops at several observation points along the way so riders can appreciate how the varying light and locations influence the ever-changing visual perspectives of the Canyon. You will get a souvenir canteen that also serves as your ticket to ride. Impressively, disposable plastic water bottles are not sold anywhere at Grand Canyon National Park, but visitors can buy a variety of reusable water bottles and fill them up at designated water stations located throughout the Park.
Hiking
SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO HIT THE SLOPES The snow has melted, leaving behind pristine biking trails, stunning hiking, incredible chairlift views and the perfect setting for outdoor concerts. Join us on the slopes and experience the service, accommodations and premier restaurants that define the Deer Valley difference.
Photo Credit: Debi Lander
There are those who derive delight from running the Grand Canyon rim to rim. If you are one of them, congratulations—you’re amazing! For everyone else, there are four day hikes that are steep or very steep from the South Rim that range from two to 12 miles roundtrip. The North Rim boasts 13 trails with distances ranging from less than a mile roundtrip to 28 miles roundtrip. The park service strongly advises against hiking from rim to river and back in one day and recommends planning on taking about twice as long to hike out as it takes you to hike in. Some park rangers refer to the Canyon as a “Darwin Pit” because each year more than 250 hikers need to be rescued due to ill-preparedness. DEER VALLEY RESORT | deervalley.com | 800-424-3337
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Photo Credit: Melissa McGibbon
Historic Hotels, Tents, and Secluded Lodges
Ranch, but you have to obtain a backcountry camping permit (nps. gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry-permit.htm) to camp there.
Phantom Ranch is the only lodging facility below the canyon rim and is reachable by foot, mule, or raft. It’s a small, historic resort village near the Bright Angel Creek and Phantom Creek confluence and can accommodate just 60 people per night. Rafters have the option to take a half trip if they wish to hike in or out at Phantom Ranch. The creek is so named because of an elusive water flow on the property. Postcard senders get a kick out of Phantom Ranch Mail Service because it’s transported via mule and is marked, “Mailed by mule at the bottom of the Grand Canyon - Phantom Ranch.” Make reservations up to six months in advance for Grand Canyon Campgrounds. The Mather Campground on the South Rim is open year-round and the North Rim Campground is open May 15 through October 15. The Bright Angel Campground is the most popular area to camp because it’s located just below Phantom
The El Tovar Historic Hotel was built in 1905 and is the crown jewel of Historic National Park Lodges, but there are five other hotel lodges perched next to it on the South Rim that offer equally resplendent views. My room at the Kachina Lodge featured the best view from a hotel room window I’ve ever seen. Everywhere in the Grand Canyon is a feast for the eyes. I especially enjoyed watching sunlight spill into the Grand Canyon at dawn from Hopi Point. It made a nice addition to my collection of sun salutations at global travel destinations. Melissa McGibbon is an Associate Editor for Outdoor Sports Guide Magazine, a Lolë Ambassador, and a member of the Society of American Travel Writers. She is usually skiing, climbing, biking, practicing yoga, flying, surfing, or diving—and is always in pursuit of adventure, travel, or some daring combination of the two.
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Hey Dude! Getting Ranchy in
the Colorado Rockies By Jenny Willden
I
t’s a place where doors are left unlocked and strangers say 'howdy' as you walk by. Horses are the primary mode of transportation, and people gather for dinner at the sound of a bell. The hum of electronics is absent, replaced by the sound of a creek outside one's window. No, I’m not talking about a bygone era in towns like Mayberry. This place still exists. Nearly two hours from the bustle of Denver, high in the Rockies at 8,300 feet above sea level are dude ranches that invite guests to experience this simple life in one-week doses. Last summer, I packed my cowboy hat and traveled to Colorado to try out ranching for myself at Drowsy Water and C Lazy U Ranches. Drowsy Water, located on the western side of the Continental Divide along Drowsy Water Creek, specializes in family travel and welcomes guests from June–September. Neighboring C Lazy U, more appropriately called a guest ranch, is open year-round and offers a Western experience with hotel-style amenities like a fitness center, spa, and cocktail hours. After visiting both ranches, I see why so many guests and employees decide to hang their hats here forever.
Drowsy Water Ranch
Popular with families, couples, and anyone looking to escape city life, Drowsy Water has been in operation for over 90 years as an authentic dude ranch experience. Unlike a typical resort where guests duck in and out of their own rooms, hardly daring to make eye contact in a hallway, strangers at Drowsy Water are just friends you haven’t met yet. Drowsy Water makes its home in Granby, Colorado right off the U.S. 40, and a red wagon in front of a dirt road marks the entrance. Tucked in a long canyon at the road’s end is this 700-acre ranch where livestock outnumbers guests and everything from stables, barns, rustic cabins, and kid’s playgrounds are within easy walking distance. I arrived around dinner and wondered what I would eat at as a pescetarian (vegetarian who eats fish) participating in a decidedly cowboy experience, but the staff was blessedly accommodating. Thanksgiving dinner was served the first night, but instead I enjoyed fresh
sportsguidemag.com
Photo courtesy of C Lazy U
fish topped in a tomato-avocado slaw. All meals are included in your stay, and special diets like mine are no problem with advance notice. Coming on my own to a press trip at the ranch, I worried it would be like the first day of school with me aimlessly wandering among the tables looking for a place to sit. Gratefully, it was the opposite. I dined with older couples who called dude ranching the “trip of a lifetime” and ladies who’d been visiting annually since the ‘90s. Our intimate group of just 15 visitors made getting to know everyone easy.
The Staff
Ken and Randy Sue Fosha, owners and operators of Drowsy Water Ranch since 1977, offer the down-home hospitality you’d expect in a Western vacation. They're some of the nicest people I’ve met, and their dedication to dude ranching shows in the annually returning families and repeated nods from Trip Advisor for Best All-Inclusive Resort. Their two sons and the wife of one have more recently joined them in business, and they all live here year-round and manage everything from the horses to children’s programs. Their staff hails from around the nation and are a mix of college-age first timers and returnees who (happily) work long days—upwards of 12 hours—all summer filling roles from kids’ counselors to wranglers. Many are former guests themselves who couldn’t wait to return. One long-time staff member, Ian, visited the ranch from England 17 years ago…and basically never left! My fellow guests are almost exclusively from the East Coast, minus two ladies who crossed the pond to visit from England. Despite their wild success, the Fosha’s like keeping it small, and the ranch is limited to just 50 guests each week. Because school was back in session, my September visit was designated an adults-only art week with painting clinics taught by artist Barbara Tiffany, in addition to the traditional schedule of riding and recreation.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is the heart of Drowsy Water, and you’re assigned a horse for the week based on ability forms filled out prior to arrival. They excel at matching horses and riders to ensure you enjoy your
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enjoy your ride... • Relieve discomfort • Increase efficiency • Enhance performance Contact John for a ride-enhancing bike fit.
twice-daily rides, and I was delighted to meet my horse Clifford, a large, reddish-colored gelding aptly given the moniker after the huge, red storybook dog. It fit. Although almost too tall to mount on my own, Clifford was a gentle giant. Drowsy Water emphasizes gentle communication with horses, and only allows kicking as a final resort if other command requests are ignored. Thankfully, Clifford needed just a little nudging to stay with the group. I started with a warm-up ride then moved into an advanced loping group for afternoon where we climbed out of the valley and onto a high peak to a dramatic overlook, spotting deer and a moose along the way. Throughout the week you’ll lope through meadows, trek up mountains, and view wildlife as you explore miles of scenic mountain trails.
Other Activities
This is your vacation, and there’s plenty of free time to spend how you choose. Join planned activities like mountain biking, hiking, and river rafting, or just grab a book and read by the creek. Whatever you do, don’t miss the ziplining. Drowsy Water has rigged and operates over 3000 feet of lines, including a grand finale that launches you across their canyon with splendid views of the ranch from above. As a mild agrophobic, I felt panicky as I hurled myself off the edge and down the steep line, but speed is key to not getting stuck in the middle so I went full throttle until the platform came into view after what seemed like minutes in the air. What a rush!
Photo Credit: Jenny Willden
www.bikefitr.com john@bikefitr.com 801.230.2169
Ziplining at Drowsy Water Ranch. Affordable STD testing, birth control, condoms... Make an appointment today. 1.800.230.PLAN www.ppau.org www.facebook.com/ppacofutah
Nightlife and ranching sound like an unlikely pairing, but country dancing, bingo, hayrides, a staff show, and an outdoor candlelit dinner are part of the week’s experience. I visited for the dancing night, and loved learning square dancing steps and getting my Hokey Pokey on with the staff and fellow guests.
Kids’ Programs
Known for their spectacular children’s program, counselors supervise infants through teenagers in horseback riding, hikes, cookouts, crafts, swimming, and more. They’ll even take on diaper duty and bottle-feeding for babies so the adults can focus on mastering their riding skills. There’s also time for family togetherness as meals and many activities take place jointly. Learn more about kids’ offerings at drowsywater.com. After my two-day taste of Drowsy Water Ranch, I knew I wanted to return and am looking forward to one day booking my own week-long ranch getaway.
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C Lazy U
Though just 10 miles down the road from Drowsy Water Ranch, the C Lazy U experience differs greatly. A guest ranch for the last 95 years, C Lazy U has modernized with the times and offers impressive facilities more akin to a four-star resort than a dude ranch. Their Patio House boasts a gorgeous pool and indoor fitness center, and a short walk away is the famed Lazy U Spa. Perched along Willow Creek, this outdoor sanctuary of tentlike structures offers luxurious massages, facials, and copper tub soaks that feel otherworldy.
Activities and Horseback Riding
Not everything has changed over time here, and guests still gather every morning and afternoon to watch wranglers herd the horses in and out to open pasture. Known as “The Jingle,” seeing nearly 200 horses run free along the dirt road led by just a few cowboys and cowgirls was a highlight for me. Plus, the 'Cowboy Coffee' served at the morning Jingle is downright delectable. C Lazy U’s weekly schedule is similar to Drowsy Water with twice-daily horseback rides supplemented with activities such as trap shooting, ropes course, archery, horseshoes, hiking, ball sports, and of course...hot tubbing and swimming. In addition to trail rides, C Lazy U has a gorgeous indoor arena, and since my horse was of the stubborn variety, I spent nearly an hour wearing him down inside on our first ride before venturing back outdoors. On select mornings, guests can try their hand at herding cattle on horseback. Guiding 50 steers through a river and into an arena is a challenging—but fun—endeavor. On regular rides you'll experience the ranch's diverse trails with striking overlooks and a wildflower or fall color backdrop, dependent on when you visit. All this riding means you’re backside may get sore, but I can bet you’ll be loping by week’s end.
Photo Credit: Jenny Willden
Continued on page 28
The Afternoon Jingle
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Pedal Paradise Moab Mountain Biking By BJ Platte
s soon as spring blooms in here in Utah, we are blessed (see: A cursed) with some volatile weather (as if we don’t get enough of that over the winter). Rain and snow scatter our 70-degree days rendering our trail conditions in Salt Lake City unpredictable. In order to combat our wet-trail blues, my wife, Martina, and I decided to escape for awhile. For us, the closest and easiest way to do that is a road trip to the mountain biking mecca of Moab.
Usually the weather is much warmer and drier there, which is one of the many reasons it’s such an appealing destination. However, the weather in Moab can be iffy too. Checking weather forecasts is a critical part of trip planning because riding slickrock is more than just menacing when it’s wet and flash floods are possible. On Mother’s Day weekend, a storm rolled through Grand County that ranked as the sixth rainiest two-day period in the last 35 years! Summer can be incredibly hot, so plan to ride early and hydrate often if visiting in July or August. We are lucky enough to just be a 3.5-hour drive away from this famous section of Utah desert, and Moab is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities you will find in the West. Being that so much of the tourism is centered on cycling, the infrastructure in Moab is amazing. There’s an abundance of well-marked trails and plenty of maps and other resources for bikers, including a very welcoming attitude from the locals. There’s something for every level of rider in Moab, whether you’re keen to give the new Klonzo Trails a go or itching to do The Whole Enchilada. After a quick breakfast at The Love Muffin Cafe it was time to ride. For our first ride, we decided to hit up the Moab Brand Trails (also called the Bar M Trails), a really great trail system about eight miles north of town. This trail system is known for its variety, clear markings, and easy access. There are long stretches of doubletrack peppered with some rocks and tight turns that keep it interesting enough. Trails are assigned difficulty ratings like ski trails. Green for beginners to Black Diamond for experts, and are determined based on grunt, technical, and fear factors. For intermediate to advanced riders, there are several different trails ranging from green blue combos, all the way into your double
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black diamond rides— like Portal Trail, which necessitates full body armor and a strong confidence about where you’re going when you die. Warning signs read, “Dismount Now! Walk bikes along cliff edge. Three riders have died here. Save your life. Keep this route.”
A good warm-up ride is the Lazy-EZ loop. While the name can be deceiving, this is a very fun trail. The trail is moderately technical with some sandstone ridges and sweeping turns that beg to be ridden fast. After a quick loop on the Lazy-EZ Photo Credit: Martina Platte you get spit out at the main trailhead where you can pick up the North 40. The North 40 is an intermediate to advanced trail, as it does have some technical features that could give beginner riders some trouble. This trail offers a little bit of everything that makes mountain biking in Moab so great. Taking the trail counterclockwise, it starts with some winding singletrack that snakes through the desert offering amazing views of red canyon walls and massive rock features. The fast, flowy singletrack eventually gives way to large expanses of slickrock where you have to follow the painted lines so you do not lose your way. After hopping from rock to rock and riding down some exposed ridgelines you snake your way back to the trailhead once again. An important thing to remember in the desert is how fragile the environment can be. Many articles on Moab seem to forget to talk about Cryptobiotic Soil: a living soil containing bacteria and algae that desert life relies upon for survival. This special top crust is nutrient packed, it aids the dirt in retaining water, and is one of the only reasons any plant life can exist in the region. Plant life is very important in preventing trails and natural features from eroding away. This dirt is very fragile, and if you wander off marked trails it is very easy to damage the beautiful areas we want to preserve. Stay on trail, even if the views off trail are tempting. After riding the Moab Brand Trails, we visited Miguel’s Baja Grill for dinner. Miguel’s is home of the M.O.A.B., the mother of all burritos. They are not kidding, it’s massive. One burrito could easily feed a few people, or one very calorie-starved cyclist. Combine that with a margarita that’s mixed and made in house and you have yourself a winner. A little sore from the aforementioned biking, we decided on a slower start the next day and headed to ride at Moab’s Anonymous Park. This public park is amazing! It's not often that you can find jumps, a pump track, and a BMX track all in one place. And the best part is that it’s legal because the property was donated to Moab anonymously for such a purpose. Riding here will make you want to bring a very playful bike along. A tight pump track and steep jumps can make many bikes feel more than a little unwieldy. Even on a responsive bike you may have a hard time
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weaving through the tight turns of the expertly crafted pump track. If you’re feeling a little run down from long rides or just want to relax a little, take some time to explore the town. Moab is not very big, so walking from end to end is only a 20-minute endeavor. Check out some of the bike shops too. They’re full of great people who are super passionate about the sport. On our first trip to Moab we stopped at Poison Spider Bicycles on the north side of town where we were promptly greeted with enthusiasm as well as maps and fantastic local insight. The shop and its employees have a lot of character, and it’s truly a Moab gem. No bike trip to Moab would be complete without a ride on the infamous Slickrock Trail, so waking up the next day we knew what our mission was. The name of the trail can be a tad confusing because while a lot of trails contain elements of the sandstone known as slickrock, that does not necessarily make it part of the Slickrock Trail. The actual Slickrock Trail consists of riding almost entirely on and over the sandstone dunes for which the trail is named. Riding on this terrain is unlike anything most riders have ever experienced. The trail itself has a roughly two-mile practice loop that allows riders to get a feel for the sandstone before making the 10.5-mile commitment. It takes awhile to get used to riding on the terrain, but once you do it is a blast. The backside of every sandstone slab feels like a concrete pump track with little ledges and rock drops thrown in on either side of the trail. One of the things that makes Slickrock so challenging is how intense the climbing can be. Though the downhills are swoopy and fun, for every descent you make, there is a challenging uphill battle to follow. Slickrock terrain, despite its name, is grippy when it’s dry, and enables you to lean into every corner and still have perfect traction. The overall feel and experience of this trail is amazing and something everything hardcore cyclist needs to experience.
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Our final day in Moab we awoke feeling energized, but a bit sore from a couple near crashes and lots of quad-busting climbs. We took a relaxed start to the day and decided to session some of our favorite little bits of trail as we headed out of town and back to reality on the Klondike Bluffs Trails. Klondike Bluff Road is roughly 17 miles north of Moab and three miles down that dirt road is the southern trailhead. The trails here are as equally diverse as the Moab Brand Trails with rides encompassing all skill levels. The trails offer picturesque views into Arches National Park, and on some of the trails in the area you can even find fossilized dinosaur tracks. Small loops like Jurassic to Baby Steps make for a quick ride if you have to get back on the road quickly. From the trailhead Jurassic starts a little bit down a doubletrack road. It’s just over three miles of fast singletrack without too much climbing. At the end of Jurassic, hop on a short connecter trail over to Baby Steps, a mostly singletrack ride with elements of technical slickrock to keep you on your toes. If you want more fast singletrack back to the car, hit up the Dinoflow Trail. Both of which would bring you just a bit north of where you started your Jurassic adventure. We finished our trip with post-ride beers, the La Sal Mountains to our backs, and some beautiful red rock in front of us. It was obvious that our mission to find prime trails was a huge success. BJ is a career bicycle mechanic who enjoys sharing his enthusiasm of the great outdoors with anyone and everyone. You can generally find him riding his bike on local trails in Salt Lake City or running up and down Millcreek Canyon. He enjoys exploration, traveling, and anything to do with riding his bicycle in the most scenic and challenging terrain he can find. A regular contributor to TheMountainBikeLife.com, BJ loves sharing his stories, insight, and tech tips on all things mountain biking.
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When in Cache Valley… SUMMER SHENANIGANS IN LOGAN BY RACHAEL HODSON
Tony Grove Lake in Logan Canyon.
V
isiting Cache Valley is in some ways like coming home. Although I’ve never lived here, gone to school here, or spent more than a few days here, my roots are firmly planted in Logan’s rich soil. My ancestors helped settle the area, and as a child I heard stories from my grandfather about his antics growing up in Providence. Utah State University educated a lovely woman I call “mother,” and this is the place of my beginning on this earth. So over the years, Logan has drawn me in time and time again. Cache Valley is green, lush, and surrounded by the majestic Wellsville Mountains to the west, the Bear River Mountains to the east, and the Wasatch Range to the south. My great grandparents raised cattle here, and to this day the valley boasts some of the best dairy herds in the state as well as many food production companies. Some regional and nationally-known food brands are based in Cache Valley such as Pepperidge Farm products and Fat Boy ice cream. For years I’ve paused in Logan to grab a bite to eat before heading up Logan Canyon to the cold, sparkling waters of Bear Lake for summer boating or the pristine slopes of Beaver Mountain. Even though I love it here, I rarely take time to enjoy the wealth of recreation, activities, and cultural events this quiet Northern community offers. This summer, escape the heat and bustle of Salt Lake and point your nose north for an exciting getaway less than a tank of gas away.
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Image licensed by Ingram Image
WHAT TO DO City of Logan Just an hour and a half from Salt Lake City, Logan is a college town with a growing arts scene that hosts enough cultural events and activities to fill the locals’ summer calendars. Cache Valley has one of the state’s largest farmer’s markets, and it has been voted one of the top 20 Farmer’s Markets in America (gardenersmarket.org). Just a few minutes west of town is the American West Heritage Center (awhc.org) and it should be on your “must-do” list, especially if you have children! Learn about the past at this living history museum, farm, and old west town. Stay updated on current area happenings at nothingtodoinlogan.com. Road cyclists of all ability levels will enjoy safe, scenic riding through the nearby towns and farming communities. Logan’s little-trafficked country roads are perfect for group riding, and large cycling events including LOTOJA and MS 150 are held here annually. Logan Canyon and Surrounding Area Logan Canyon boasts a seemingly endless array of activities: hiking, fly fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, ATV touring, kayaking, and biking. The canyon’s National Scenic Byway offers beautiful views and is lined with camping spots and hikes in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Wildflowers peak in the area between June and August.
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If you’re an avid kayaker, try the “staircase section’ starting on Logan River’s 2nd Dam. Hikers should hit the Crimson Trail, which follows along the top of what is known as the Great Wall of China to Tony Grove. Don’t forget your water and sunscreen when you seek out the Wind Caves, a delicate triple arch and natural cave at the top of the trail. Keep your eye on your kids as there is a BIG drop off at the front of the cave. What a view!
Looking for a cold drink with the kids, or maybe one without? The Beehive Grill (thebeehivegrill.com) serves up Moab Brewery’s winning ales along with their very own homemade root beer. If you’re looking for a tavern-style stop, have a drink on the deck at The White Owl. Pool, TVs, loud music, and even an outdoor grill make this Logan’s favorite bar.
There are over 275 rock climbing routes in Logan Canyon and about 230 are bolted sport climbs. Beginning climbers can try out the Date Wall, near the mouth of the canyon, where you can find routes ranging in difficulty from 5.6 to 5.10a. Many other routes in this canyon are considered to be some of the toughest on Earth. Super Tweak and White Out (both 5.14b) will separate the pros from the amateurs. Visit logancanyonhiking.com for more information. Pack a picnic and head to Blacksmith Fork Canyon to enjoy it, but be sure to stop at Hardware Ranch (wildlife.utah.gov/ hardwareranch) on the way up where the wildlife viewing is fantastic.
Seasons at the Riter Mansion (theritermansion.com) is a charming, historic Bed & Breakfast that’s perfect for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast of their famous apple pancakes and omelettes before hitting the pavement...or dirt. During the summer, camp in Logan Canyon at designated campgrounds such as Bridger where you’ll find 10 sites and nearby fishing, or Preston Valley, which offers eight secluded sites in the trees along the river. Get more information on canyon camping at logancanyon.com. Photo Credit: Rachael Hodson
When in Logan, eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner for that matter, where the locals eat at Angie’s (angiesrest.com). This place is bumping every time I walk through the door. Stuff yourself silly and order the Kitchen Sink. Yes, it is a sink stuffed to the brim with ice cream, s bananas, syrup, and whipped cream.
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It’s hard to pass by The Bluebird (thebluebirdrestaurant.com) on Main Street and not get a nostalgic yearning to go inside. The historic soda fountain will win you over, and saddling up to the candy counter is like taking a step in back in time.
One of Ut ah
id
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Photo Credit: Rachael Hodson
Logan is close enough for a day trip, but you’ll want to spend more time exploring and when you do, here are some of my (and my kids’) favorite places to crash.
Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites (crystalinnlogan.com) is affordable, clean and has a quiet, uncrowded pool. The staff here is friendly and the free breakfast is one of the best I’ve had! Located just as you come into town, this place is spacious with updated rooms and is the best bang for your buck without sacrificing comfort.
WHERE TO EAT If you travel with kids you know food is never far from their minds, and although Logan is not a hot spot on most foodie’s short list, there are some good eats in this town. Utah State University is known for its contributions to the agricultural community, and you cannot visit Logan without a stop at the Nutrition & Food Science Building for USU’s famous Aggie Ice Cream (aggieicecream.usu.edu). Try the many unique flavors at each visit; I love the Aggie Blue Mint or the Praline Pecan.
WHERE TO STAY
Logan may seem a bit off the radar, but this stunning locale is an oldtime Utah favorite. Learn more about the area and plan your visit at loganutah.org. Rachael Hodson followed her love of skiing from Washington to Utah. Entrenched in the ski industry for more than 18 years, she worked as a tech rep for Atomic, a ski instructor at both Alta Ski Area and Solitude Ski Resort, and was a freeskiing competitor and action sports model before turning to writing. Rachael currently makes her home at the base of Little Cottonwood Canyon with her husband and two sons, Noah, 11, and Isaac, 8.
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Award-winning* spirits made right here in Utah! * Honors Underground Herbal Spirits Double-Gold San Fransisco World Spirits Best of Category-Liqueur Spirits of the Americas Gold Denver International Spirits Silver New York International Spirits
Try Sinful and Heavenly Five Wives!
Cheers! Raise a glass to local makers of potent potables
Five Wives Vodka Favorite New Spirit Best of Utah- SL City Weekly Silver Spirits of the Americas Silver Denver International Spirits Bronze New York International Spirits
by Molly Newman
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Distillery of the Year New York International Spirits
Ogden’s Own Distillery Ogden, UT
Available at Utah DABC Stores, awsome bars and restaurants statewide.
Please Drink Responsibly
here’s no denying it: Throughout much of its history, Utah hasn’t been the friendliest place for people who enjoy unwinding with a glass of something stronger than root beer. But in the last couple of decades, looser laws and a more relaxed social environment have made the state a growing mecca for fans of locally produced beers, wines, and even harder stuff. With both industry veterans and newcomer offerings on tap, there’s bound to be a drink to suit your taste. Cap off your next outdoor adventure with a stop at one of these hot spots, or, to sample a wide range of tastes in a single stop, check out one of the beer bars that proudly pours Utah-made libations.
Breweries
Though pre-Prohibition Utah was home to some of the biggest breweries in the West, the industry virtually vanished from the state in the 1930s. The drought lasted until 1986, when Greg Schirf launched Wasatch Brew in Park City and opened the door for entrepreneurial beer lovers. Now, Utah boasts 18 breweries from Ogden to Moab, serving up everything from light session-style lagers to seriously intense oatmeal stouts. The ready availability of high-quality, locally-produced beer doesn’t go unappreciated: Nearly 20% of all the beer sold in Salt Lake City is craft beer, rather than the pale yellow fizzy stuff produced by corporate megabreweries. A few of Utah's microbreweries are highlighted below, but you can find a full list and more information at craftbeer.com.
Uinta Brewing Company 1722 Fremont Drive, SLC uintabrewing.com This pioneering brewery, launched in 1993, is now Utah’s largest, crafting 60,000 barrels in 2013. Uinta has deep roots in the active outdoor lifestyle: “I knew I wanted to open a brewery, and I knew I wanted to work 20 minutes from the ski lifts,” says owner Will Hamill. The brewery is justly proud of its environmental commitment as well. Since 2001, the entire operation has run on 100% renewable electricity. Worth Tasting: Heading out for a bike ride or rafting trip? Pick up a few cans of Sum’r Organic Ale. Lightweight, easy-to-tote packaging combines with a refreshing, session brew that’s perfect for sipping in the sunshine.
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Roosters Brewing Company 253 Historic 25th Street, Ogden / 748 W. Heritage View Boulevard, Layton roostersbrewingco.com Bring a healthy appetite when you visit this popular brewpub. Menu offerings go beyond typical burgers and fries, including grilled steak, fresh Atlantic salmon, and creative pasta combinations. Start a weekend adventure off right with Roosters’ hearty brunch fare: A chile verde omelet or a plate of huevos rancheros are ideal fuel for a day on the trail. Worth Tasting: Perk up your palate with the lightly herbal sweetness of Bee’s Knees Honey Wheat. This light-bodied, crisp-flavored hefeweizen started as a special one-time offering, but proved so popular it’s been added to Roosters’ regular lineup of brews.
Epic Brewing 825 South State Street, SLC epicbrewing.com Looking for a little more intense beer-drinking experience? Epic specializes in big, bold-flavored beers with a higher-than-average alcohol content. In addition to their newbie-friendly Classic Series, they offer limited-release brews in the Elevated and Exponential Series targeted at the experienced, discriminating beer drinker. Enjoy tastes in the Tap-less Tap Room or pick up a 22-ounce bottle to enjoy at your leisure. Worth Tasting: The “deceivingly drinkable” Brainless BelgianStyle Ale includes ingredients like candy sugar, European hops, and carefully selected yeast strains for a traditional Belgian brew that packs a 9.5% ABV wallop. Cool down post-ride with a bottle paired with rich or spicy foods.
Wineries
Utah winemakers capitalize on the short growing season, dry weather, and cool nights to produce a wide range of varietal wines. Grapes aren’t the only fruit going into bottles in the state, though. Ideal growing conditions for peaches, apricots, and cherries mean there’s a booming business in fruit wines as well.
Photo courtesy of Uinta Brewing Company.
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Brunch Served
Saturday & Sunday
10-2
Excellent Food Family Friendly
Castle Creek
High West Distillery
Milepost 14, Hwy 128, Moab castlecreekwinery.com
703 Park Avenue, Park City highwest.com
Turn your next trip to Moab into a wine country adventure. Castle Creek, Utah’s largest winery, offers complimentary tastings of its award-winning vintages in a gorgeous red-rock setting. Watch the winemaking process in action, then check out the world-class whitewater rapids right next to the winery grounds. Stretch your stay to an overnight at the Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge, where you can dine overlooking the Colorado River while enjoying a bottle of red.
The world’s only “ski-in gastro-distillery,” High West offers a high-toned blend of gourmet contemporary cuisine and innovative blended spirits perfect for enjoying après-ski (or aprèsjust about anything else). Flavor-filled small plates invite sharing and sampling, and craft cocktails go down butter-smooth.
Worth Tasting: A rough-and-tumble Outlaw Red is a perfect pairing for grilled steak, BBQ ribs, or other classic Western fare.
Spanish Valley 4710 Zimmerman Lane, Moab Specializing in white and Germanstyle wines, this charming family-run winery is a great stop on a Canyonlands tour. The Stripeika family grows their own grapes, crafts their own wine, and pours samples in their cozy tasting room. Worth Tasting: Cool down after after a long bike, hike, or climb with a crisp, refreshing Riesling. (We won’t even tell if you sneak in an ice cube.)
The Hive 1220 W Jack D Road #2, Layton thehivewinery.com Raspberries, strawberries, currants, and honey–they’re not just ingredients for a fruit salad, they’re the base of the more than 30 types of fruit and honey wine crafted at this unique Utah winery. New seasonal wines are released regularly, each a celebration of locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques. Worth Tasting: Tasting like the essence of Cache Valley wildflower honey, The Hive’s Summer Mead has taken honors at the nation’s top honey wine competitions. Enjoy it chilled and paired with a soft cheese or slices of ripe melon.
Distilleries
Utah’s distilleries–there are just two currently operating–are a breed apart. They’re not allowed to offer on-site tastings, but they’ll happily sell you a bottle and even offer you a tour. They’ve tangled with regulators both in- and out-of-state (in fact, Ogden’s Own’s Five Wives Vodka was banned in Idaho for having a label “offensive to Mormons and women”). None of these challenges, though, dissuade them from creating innovative spirits that are perfect for stirring up a cocktail or enjoying straight.
Worth Tasting: A spicy, smoky blend of bourbon, rye whiskey, and peated Scotch, High West Whiskey Campfire is ideal for enjoying with buddies around your own campfire (bring marshmallows!).
Ogden’s Own 3075 Grant Avenue, Ogden ogdensown.com Launched five years ago, Ogden’s Own first came to notice with its Underground herbal spirit, a complex, barely-sweet liqueur that managing partner Steve Conlin describes as “like Jägermeister for adults.” Underground has earned kudos from reviewers nationwide, and its success spurred the launch of Ogden’s Own’s evolving line of straight and flavored spirits. Worth Tasting: Five Wives Sinful Vodka blends cinnamon and vanilla for a sweet-hot result that’s perfect paired with hard cider or citrusy mixers.
Looking for a place that has plenty of homegrown offerings on tap? Check out one of these local watering holes. The Bayou (645 S. State Street, SLC) is a perennial favorite with 300+ beers to choose from. Buffer your belly with something from its modern comfort food menu. The Beerhive (128 S. Main Street, SLC) has 200+ beer choices and spotlights locally made brews. Beer Bar (161 E. 200 South, SLC) boasts 30 beers on tap and over 100 more in the bottle. Utah-made and other Western beers abound. 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.
Photo courtesy of High West Distillery.
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Getaway Gear
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hether camping in Zion or crisscrossing the globe, the right gear makes the journey easier. Check out these apparel, footwear, and accessory picks for your next summer adventure.
8. Proof Scout Eco Sunglasses Proof’s handmade ECO Collection shades blur the line between function and fashion. Crafted from sustainable cotton-based acetate and wood with high-quality polarized lenses in a unisex wayfarer style. $125 iwantproof.com
Apparel and Footwear
9. Patagonia Nano Puff® Pullover Even in the middle of summer, mountain nights can get chilly. When temperatures drop, pull on this light, PrimaLoft® ONE insulated half-zip for added warmth. For men and women. $170 patagonia.com
1. Icebreaker Crush Dress Pack this lightweight 100% Merino wool dress for your next vacay. The elliptical hem keeps your backside covered, and it’s odor resistant so you can wash it less often. $130 us.icebreaker.com 2. Sierra Designs Women's Long-sleeve Cowl Neck Designed to perform on the trail and look great in the city, this top’s convertible cowl neck can be worn open to ventilate or closed for warmth. Pill proof fabric prevents backpack strap rubbing to keep it looking new! $79 sierradesigns.com 3. Ogio Brooklyn Tablet Purse Keep essentials organized with this purse’s plethora of pockets and a padded interior tablet sleeve to protect your gadgets. $40 ogio.com 4. Patagonia Women’s Ballet Perf Breathable leather fabrication makes this ultralight flat the perfect travel shoe. Comfortable even after miles of walking. $90 patagonia.com 5. Ahnu Women's Sugarpine Boot Despite the pretty aesthetic, the Sugarpine is one tough boot. Totally waterproof with Vibram® rubber outsoles, they’re surprisingly light and built to withstand long trail treks. $140 ahnu.com 6. Guideline Tidal Sunglasses Available with a prescription or without, Guideline’s polarized frames are customizable with your choice of lens, tint, and mirror finish. This style best fits larger faces. $169 glpolarized.com 7. Outdoor Research Women's FlyAway Tank Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or vacationing, this cotton/poly tank made of odor-neutralizing fabric is a perfect partner. With adjustable straps and a built-in bra for support. $49 outdoorresearch.com
10. RibbedTee CoolWear Undershirt Often overlooked, a great-fitting undershirt is a men’s travel staple. Constructed from softer, stronger Supima cotton, this tee stays tucked, won’t stretch out, and actually keeps you cooler. $18 ribbedtee.com 11. Outdoor Research Men’s Ignitor Tee Wicks and breathes like a technical baselayer, but looks and feels like your favorite tee. A discrete hip pocket stashes cards or energy gels, and the fabric’s silver-treatment keeps it fresh for days. $49 outdoorresearch.com 12. Patagonia Men’s Cienga Shorts Styled like a casual short, but built from technical fabric, the modern-fitting Cienga performs in the water or on the trail. Made of quick-dry poly-nylon. $79 patagonia.com 13. Ecco Men’s BIOM Ultra Quest Built for trail running, this breathable shoe is also stellar for hiking and backpacking. A bit too sturdy on easy terrain, they’re best for rough, rooty, rocky treks. $160 us.shop.ecco.com 14. Merrell Men’s Moab Rover Waterproof Shoe When packing space is limited, bring along just this waterproof shoe with a Vibram hiking sole and urban styling. A cushioned fit and anti-microbial liner keeps your feet feeling fresh from town to trail. $120 merrell.com Continued on page 26
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Gear Continued from page 24
Other Items
15. Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set These little packs are a Type A’s dream. They’re great for keeping goods organized and weigh almost nothing. Use them to pack lunches for a day hike, separate laundry, or stuff them with clothing for a makeshift pillow. $56 eaglecreek.com 16. Starbucks VIA Lattes Make your camping trip instantly better with these just-add-hot-water lattes and mochas made with natural dairy. Five-count box $8 starbucksstore.com 17. Thermacell Outdoor Lantern Keep mosquitos at bay and light your campsite with a lantern that uses an artificial version of the insecticide in chrysanthemum flowers to create a 12-hour, 15x15 foot bug barrier. $32 mosquitorepellant.com 18. Kelty Deluxe Lounge Chair Ahh, now that’s relaxing. This fully-featured camping chair is made with a steel frame and includes three recline positions, adjustable arms, and dual, yes dual, beverage holders. $74 kelty.com 19. REI Kingdom 4 Tent with Connect Tech Garage A veritable outdoor palace, the Kingdom 4 comfortably sleeps four adults with a center divider to create two spacious rooms. Use the Connect Tech zipper attachment to add on a garage with 50 feet of space for your gear. Tent $389, Garage $100 rei.com 20. World Travel Adventure Medical Kit Travel to remote areas prepared with this well-thought medical kit. Includes pain medication, hospital-quality tools, fracture wraps, and guide to providing care when help is hours—or even days—away. $70 adventuremedicalkits.com 21. Sierra Designs Backcountry Bed Get cozy in a zipper-free bag that sleeps more like a bed than a sarcophagus. Tuck the oversized comforter in or leave it out when you overheat. A pad sleeve ensures you won’t roll off. 600-fill hydrophobic down, three-season comfort. $340 sierradesigns.com
22. Lolë Abia Backpack There are so many reasons we love Lolë travel gear—and this two-in-one backpack is one of them. It’s a mid-sized backpack that converts into a fanny pack, a very cool and stylish fanny pack, that is. $90 lolëwomen.com 23. Osprey Tempest 9 Pack Whether hiking or mountain biking, this pack excels. A ridged foam backpanel promotes airflow, and pockets on the shoulders and hipbelt put a camera and snacks within reach. $90 osprey.com 24. Kelty TrailLogic Backpack Finally, a better backpack! Designed with a removable front pocket so you can leave your clothes at the campsite and other smart features like dedicated spots for a Kelty tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag. Hydration compatible with pull-out raincover. 50-liter pack $200 kelty.com 25. Grand Trunk Bamboo Sleep Sack Made from organic bamboo, this sleep sack is machine washable and weighs 16 ounces. Use it as an extra layer between you and hostel bedding, or sweeten your sleep with this luxurious liner on a camping trip. $69 grandtrunkgoods.com 26. Travelchair SleepRite Cot Weighing under five pounds, this compact cot is a cinch to set up. Plus, the shock-corded poles offer better support for a good night’s rest. $198 travelchair.com 27. iLandFly Solar Charger Charge your USB device with this folding solar charger that works even when cloudy. Just strap it to your pack or hang from your tent to power up in 4–6 hours. $140 iland-solar.com 28. Mophie Juice Pack Helium Give your smartphone an extra 80% battery life with this ultra-thin protective battery case. It’s perfect for wilderness trips when you don’t access to a charging outlet for extended periods of time. $79 mophie.com 29. Otterbox Preserver Phone Case Drop or dunk your smartphone without worry in a Preserver. Interior foam cushions while the tough polycarbonate shell protects from impact. $90 otterbox.com
26 | STRAYCATIONS 2014 sportsguidemag.com
1-800-448-BEAR (2327) www.bearlake.org
rLake.indd 1
3/13/14 9:43 AM
Stop in today and try our fresh handmade gluten free breads and dinner rolls. Custom made gluten free cakes for your birthday, wedding or special event also available! Always fresh & always gluten free. Because everyone deserves something sweet! 457 E. 300 S. SLC, UT 84111 | 801-478-6830 sweetcakebakeshop.com
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Colorado Dude Ranches Continued from page 15 Meals are done a bit differently at this ranch. Food is nothing short of gourmet, but the lunch served alongside the outdoor pool ranked as my favorite. Set up like a barbecue, you pick your main entree and pair it with an ever-changing assortment of soup, salads, and desserts. Dinner is a far more formal affair here, and children dine separately for this meal each night. It begins with cocktail hour downstairs before moving upstairs for dinner, which is served course-by-course on gorgeous flatware by welcoming, elegantly dressed staff. Comfort is not lacking in the accommodations, and the plush kingsize beds and fireplaces will put you in total relaxation mode. Little bonuses like the C Lazy U water bottle left in your room, along with a giant jar of housemade granola, make the stay even cozier.
Kids’ Programs
Kids and adults ride horses separately at C Lazy U, save one family ride offered during the week, and kids spend much of the day participating in activities like rowing, archery, scavenger hunts, swimming, hay rides, carnivals, volleyball, and crafts. Young children through teenagers have programs tailored for them, and families are together primarily in the mornings over breakfast, some afternoons, and evenings following dinner.
Getting There and Booking Information
Drowsy Water Ranch and C Lazy U are about 90 miles west of Denver in the town of Granby, Colorado. The quickest way there is to fly into Denver and drive to the ranches. Other nearby sites worth visiting include: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, Winter Park, and Hot Sulphur Springs. Both ranches book out far in advance, but more availability and discounted rates can be found for adults-only weeks in September at Drowsy Water (drowsywater.com) or during the off-season at C Lazy U (clazyu.com).
Horseback Riding Wear
A sturdy pair of jeans, plaid shirt, and cowboy hat are all you really need to ride, but these additional items make great partners for a long week in the saddle. Goode Rider Heritage Down Jacket Mountain mornings are cool, making this flattering jacket great for early rides. Down insulated with cable wrist cuffs to keep cold out and a removable shearling-lined hood. Also available as a vest. $180 gooderider.com Justin George Strait Boots Boots are required for riding, and Justin’s are a great investment. After six years of riding horses I still exclusively pick Justin’s for their long-wearing comfort, and this waterproof leather style felt broken in at the first wear. $130 justinboots.com
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+.
28 | STRAYCATIONS 2014
sportsguidemag.com
Outdoor Sports Guide is new to Instagram, and we’re celebrating all summer long with a reader-submitted photo contest!
Entering to win is easy! Post it on your favorite social media site and tag our account on Facebook (Outdoor Sports Guide Magazine), Twitter (@osportsguidemag), or Instagram (@sportsguidemag) and add #sportsguidemag to make it easier for us to find. We welcome photos from national parks, ski resorts, your favorite café, and even your local REI. Post as many times as you want! We’ll share our favorites in the Late Summer Issue of Outdoor Sports Guide, and a lucky few will win prizes such as a digital camera from Pixels Foto (pixelsfoto.com), a three-day juice cleanse from Just Organic Juices (justorganicjuice.com). One grand prize winner will receive a Moab vacation package with two-night stay for two in a luxurious cabin at Red Cliffs Lodge, breakfast each morning, a dining gift certificate, and river trip on the Colorado. Also, submit photos by emailing editor@sportsguidemag.com.
Deadline to submit is August 31, 2014, but enter before then as we’ll be selecting random winners throughout the summer!
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Summer 2014 Calendar of Events** JUNE 6 13 14 14-15 15 15 20 20-21 21 27 28
JULY 4 4 5 5 7-11 11
Snowbird Family Flicks: The Incredibles Snowbird Family Flicks: The Princess Bride Summer Activities Open (conditions permitting) 6th Annual Brewfest Father’s Day Brunch with live music Father’s Day BBQ Snowbird Family Flicks: The Sandlot Kids’ Adventure Race Cool Air Concert: Chatham County Line Snowbird Family Flicks: The Truman Show Cool Air Concert: Jaden Carlson Band
4th of July Pancake Breakfast Snowbird Family Flicks: Frozen Mountain Bout Mountain Bike Race Cool Air Concert: Cure for Common Kids’ Mountain Sports Camp Snowbird Family Flicks: Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark 12 Cool Air Concert at Noon: Kyle Rowland Blues Band 12 Cool Air Concert at 6 p.m.: TBA 16 Wasatch Trail Run Race Series 18 Snowbird Family Flicks: Rocky IV 19 Speedgoat 50K 19 Cool Air Concert: Fox Street Allstars 19-20 Utah Adventure Games 23 Wasatch Trail Run Race Series 25 Snowbird Family Flicks: Willow 26 The Race 26 Cool Air Concert: Fruition 27 Wasatch Wildflower Festival
AUGUST 1 1-3 2 2 5 6 8 9 9 9 15 16 16 16, 17 23 23, 24 23 30, 31
Snowbird Family Flicks: Jurassic Park Kids’ Mountain Sports Camp Survivors at the Summit Hike Cool Air Concert: Gravy Mid-Week MTB Race Series Wasatch Trail Run Race Series Snowbird Family Flicks: Hook Tour of Utah Challenge (citizen race) Tour of Utah Cool Air Concert: Joshua James Snowbird Family Flicks: The Dark Crystal Snowbird Adventure Race Stargazer Oktoberfest Run Elevated Half Marathon Oktoberfest Stargazer Grand Oktoberfest
SEPTEMBER 1 6, 7
Grand Oktoberfest Oktoberfest
Bed & Breakfast packages from
$65*
13 13 13, 14 20 20, 21 26-28 27 27 27, 28
36th Snowbird Bicycle Hill Climb and Ultra Hill Climb Stargazer Oktoberfest (Beard Contest) Stargazer Oktoberfest Ski & Board Swap Hidden Peak Challenge Running Race Widow Maker Mountain Bike Race Oktoberfest
OCTOBER 4, 5 11, 12 18-19 25-26
Oktoberfest Oktoberfest Customer Appreciation Days Customer Appreciation Days
Ongoing
Camp Snowbird in session, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., June 9 - Aug. 22 (closed holidays) LDS Worship Service, Sundays, 9 a.m. Live Music at The Aerie, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights, June 27 - Sept. 20.
The Bed & Breakfast package includes lodging and a full breakfast for each night of your stay. snowbird.com
1-800-453-3000
*Rate is per person, double occupancy and will vary with date, lodge and accommodations selected. **Schedule dates and times are subject to change. Visit snowbird.com for the latest schedule and more information on each event. Small coolers are permitted at concerts and movies.