MOFFAT COUNTY
Treasures ounty Craig & Moffat C ide 2016 Visitor’s Gu A special publication of the Craig Daily Press
RealtoRs of Moffat County
Roy McAnally Broker Associate Cell: 970-326-6566 roy.mcanally@coldwellbanker.com
105 E Victory Way • Craig, CO 970-824-3445 • www.cbdistinctive.com
Ashly Shipman Cell: 970-629-8218 ashly.shipman@coldwellbanker.com
Judy Bingham Cell: 970-210-7360 julia.bingham@coldwellbanker.com
Yvonne McAnally Broker Associate Cell: 970-326-8346 yvonne@yvonnemcanally.com
Pam Baker
Cell: 970-234-2988 pam@pambaker.net
KING
Homes and Land REALTY, LLC
304 W Victory Way Craig CO 970-824-0223 www.craigcorealty.com
Marylou Wisdom Broker Associate Cell: 970-629-3693 mwisdom2@aol.com
504 W Victory Way www.kinghomesland.com
Yvonne Gustin Broker Owner Cell: 970-629-5842 yvonneinc1@gmail.com
Dorina Fredrickson Broker Associate Cell: 970-629-1089 dorinaf91@yahoo.com
Sandra King – ABR, CDPE, CRS, ePRO Owner/Broker Cell: 970-629-0596 sandra@kinghomesland.com
508 Yampa Avenue, Craig CO 970-824-4455
840 W. Victory Way Craig CO 970-824-7086 www.brasskey-realty.com
Sari Cobb Broker Owner Cell: 970-629-9876 sari@saricobb.com
Chuck Cobb Broker Associate Cell: 970-629-9397 chuck@chuckcobb.net
Vicki Burns ABR, CRS, GRI, MRE Broker Owner Cell: 970-629-2470 vicki@brasskey-realty.com
Kim Cox Broker Associate Cell: 970-326-6057 kim@kimcox.net
Stacey Mathers Broker Owner Cell: 970-326-7581 stacey@staceymathers.com
Otis Lyons Broker Associate Cell: 970-326-6938 otis@brasskey-realty.com
Welcome TO MOFFAT COUNTY
those who work, live and play in moffat county know all the treasures that our county has bestowed upon its residents. thus, we’re pleased to bring you moffat county treasures, highlighting our precious landmarks, priceless activities and endless adventures in our vast landscape of sagebrush, canyons and mountainous masterpieces. Whether you visit the wild horses — yes, wild horses still exist — or embark on a hunting adventure, our hope is that you fall in love with moffat county the way many of us have over the decades. We invite you to dive into its endless possibilities of adventure and sightseeing. We encourage you to breath the fresh country air and photograph our majestic terrain. We champion our county and hope you will too. after living here for nearly 10 years, i can confidently say that there’s no place i’d rather call home. the sense of community in craig is amazing. We welcome you to northwest colorado.
!
Enjoy your stay
— Renee Campbell, publisher
Moffat County Treasures is published annually by the Craig Daily Press. Moffat County Treasures magazines are free. For advertising information, call 970-871-1782. To get a copy mailed to your home, call 970-824-2600.
publisher Renee Campbell editor Noelle Leavitt Riley Circulation manager Gary Cole advertising manager Sheli Steele Creative services manager Lindsay Porter Content & photos Lauren Blair, Andy Bockelman, Patrick Kelly advertising Cori Kroese, Melissa Valentine advertising design Janette Najera, Jason Strohl administrative assistant Christy Barnes Moffat County Treasures
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Contents Moffat’s Treasures .................................. 5 Craig’s Attractions ............................... 18 Moffat County Map ................................ 29 DaY Trips ........................................... 34 Winter Sports ..................................... 38 Festivals ........................................... 42 Other Treasures ................................... 45 un ty Mo ffat Co
Tr ea su re s fat County Craig & Mof ’s Guide itor 2016 Vis a special publication of the Craig Daily Press
on the cover: Horses of Sand Wash Basin. Photo courtesy of Patti Mosbey Wood carvers from across the country participated in the 2015 Whittle the Wood Rendezvous. Cravings can be viewed throughout Craig. Photo by Andy Bockelman
4 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
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Moffat County
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at Craig’s only full service hotel Clarion Inn & Suites featuring
300 South Highway 13 Craig, CO 81625 970-824-4000
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Moffat County Treasures
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Wild Horse herd offers a taste of the West Wild horses hold a majestic, Wild West-like quality. The amazing aspect of wild horses is that they still exist right here in Moffat County, giving spectators who visit their habitat at Sand Wash Basin an opportunity to experience the heart of the American West. Currently, the Sand Wash Basin herd consists of roughly 500 wild horses. To see the magnificent equines, all you have to do is take a short 45-minute drive west of Craig on U.S. Highway 40. Go 30 miles to Maybell and turn north onto Colorado Highway 318 and drive for roughly 18 miles. Turn north onto Moffat County Road 67 onto the Herd Management Area and follow the road to the Wild Horse Loop. If you’re lucky, you’ll see one — if not several — of the wild horses that live on the 160,000 acres of property maintained by Bureau of Land Management. The horses are fascinating, colorful and simply breathtaking. “They’re beautiful, they’re high in color and you can see them pretty easily,” said Wendy Reynolds, field manager at the BLM Little Snake Field office in Craig. “What makes it so unique is the markings and the colors of this particular herd.” The Sand Wash Basin and its horses have become a huge tourism attraction for the county — an alluring treat for those who crave a taste of an untainted part of Colorado. “I’ve always just loved horses, and I love seeing horses in a natural habitat and watching them communicate in a band-type setting,” said Patti Mosbey, a professional photographer who resides in Craig. The horses have more than 160,000 followers on Facebook under the Sand Wash Basin Wild Horses page. Tourists come from around the world to see the colorful herd. As a matter of fact, a woman named Heather Robson who lives in New Zealand keeps record of the horses and their names. Astonishingly enough, Robson’s never visited Moffat County, Mosbey said, noting that the horse lovers are trying to get her to visit in 2016. Sand Wash Basin is a great day trip, but visitors can also camp on the land. “There’s people that go out and sleep in their vehicles. They car camp,” Mosbey said. “There’s so many places to camp off of Horse Trail Loop.” It’s almost impossible to visit Sand Wash Basin and not see a wild horse. “In the heat of the summer, if you know where the water holes are, you’ll know where to find the horses,” she said. Many water holes exist off of Horse Trail Loop. For more: Bureau of Land Management, 970-826-5000, or www.blm.gov; Moffat County Tourism Office, 866-332-8436, or www.visitmoffatcounty.com — Noelle Leavitt Riley
Sand Wash Basin wild horses. Photo by Pat ti mosbe
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OARS RAFTING GUIDe RUSSeLL SCHUBeRT NAVIGATeS THe RIVeR WHILe ROWING A HeAVILY-LOADeD 18-FOOT RAFT. Photo by tom roSS
Rafting the Yampa and Green rivers the yampa river winds through northwest Colorado offering an array of recreational opportunities from steamboat springs through Craig all the way to Dinosaur national Monument on the utah border. If you’re looking for a fun way to beat the summer heat with the family, grab some tubes and jump in for a leisurely float down the river. The popular “Town Run” takes you down a three-mile stretch of the river from Pebble Beach at Yampa Valley Golf Course to Loudy-Simpson Park, making for an easy, half-day adventure. For longer runs by kayak, raft or canoe, put in at a public river access site further upstream towards Yampa River State Park near Hayden. The state park manages the 130-mile stretch of river from east of Hayden all the way to Dinosaur National Monument in western Moffat County. “The entire stretch of the river can accommodate rafts and kayaks, both touring kayaks and whitewater kayaks,” said Yampa River State Park Manager Ron Dellacroce. “As our water flows drop, you definitely have a great canoe opportunity all along the river.” Most of the Yampa River offers gently flowing, flat water until you reach Juniper Canyon and Cross Mountain Canyon west of Craig, the latter of which offers big whitewater, according to Dellacroce. The river also offers excellent fishing, including brown trout, rainbow trout, channel catfish and northern pike and small mouth bass. Local rentals of tubes, canoes, kayaks, rafts and stand-up paddle boards are available through Red Coyote Adventures, which also offers shuttle drop-offs and pick-ups. For more information, call at 970-629-8499 or visit Red Coyote owner Derek Cleverly at Radio Shack at 106 W. Yampa Ave. in Craig. More information on floating the Yampa is also available through Yampa River State Park at 970-276-2061 or cpw.state.co.us. Make sure to respect private property along the river and pack out all trash. For the more committed river adventurers, both the Yampa and Green rivers offer world-class rafting through Dinosaur National Monument. Commercial guided trips are available through multiple outfitters, and private, non-commercial trips are available by permit only. For more information on rafting in Dinosaur National Monument, visit www.nps.gov/dino. — Lauren Blair Moffat County Treasures
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THe BROMIDe CHARCOAL KILNS OFFeR AN eXCITING eXCURSION INTO MOFFAT COUNTY HISTORY. Photo courteSy oF dan olSen.
The museum has everything for him and her, young and old. J.R. Wyman’s Resident Elk
Jr. Wyman’s Resident elk, Archery Range , Fishing & Bird watching.
M47 Patton Tank
Archery Range
M47 Patton tank, Black smith shop, barn and more.
Stop by and see us. We guarantee you will see something you have never seen before!
94350 Highway 40, Craig CO • 970-824-6346
Look for the big tan building. Our sign at the turn off is 4 miles east of Craig.
Visit us at www.wymanmuseum.com
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Bromide Charcoal Kilns ignite history If you’re looking for a unique, history rich destination to visit in Moffat County, take a drive toward Greystone to tour the Bromide Charcoal Kilns. They’re located five miles west of Douglas Mountain off of Moffat County Road 10 and have become a popular tourism attraction. Built in 1889 by the Bromide Mining and Milling Co., the coke ovens are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. They were used to smelter copper ore from a Bromide Mine near Douglas Mountain, according to Museum of Northwest Colorado documents. The smelter closed in the early 1900s, according to museum documents. “Close by, a very rich but small body of copper ore was discovered and mined most intensively in the late 1890s through World War I. Freighting the ore to the nearest railroad in Rock Creek, Wyoming, a distance of approximately 90 miles, was expensive. Consequently, the Bromide Mining and Milling Company erected a smelter facility with a 15-ton copper blast furnace,” according to the National Register of Historic Places continuation sheet. Four charcoal kilns that look like massive beehives were constructed out of sand stone in 1889. All four kilns are roughly 20 feet in diameter and height, with four-foot by six-foot tall doors on the front of each furnace. Directions: From Craig, take U.S. Highway 40 west for roughly 35 miles. Take a right onto Colorado Highway 318. Stay on Colo. 318 for approximately 28 miles. Turn left on MCR 10 and look for signs for the Bromide Charcoal Kilns. — Noelle Leavitt Riley
99 East 4th Street in Downtown Craig * (970) 824-4758
Your Full Service Business Center - Faxing * Printing * Copies * Lamination Computer service and repair with the best customer service in the Yampa Valley Locally owned and operated and proud to be the only BBB member since 1997
Moffat County Treasures
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Elkhead Reservoir offers world-class fishing the moment you drive up to elkhead reservoir, you’re instantly in awe of the large body of water that sits hidden in the rolling plains of Moffat County. With 900 surface acres of water and 1,300 acres of land, elkhead Reservoir State Park provides endless recreational opportunities for fishing, water skiing, hiking, observing the diverse wildlife, horseback riding and camping — to name a few. Visitors also get an up close view of the famous Bears ears mountain range. elkhead Reservoir is located 10 miles northeast of Craig. An oasis in the vast sagebrush prairie, the reservoir was constructed in 1974 on elkhead Creek to serve as backup water supply for Craig and Craig Station. Since its construction, the park has seen the addition of boat ramps, swim beaches, picnic areas, campsites and hiking trails. On the south end of the reservoir, the Bears ears campground offers 16 campsites. each site has a gravel pad, picnic table, shade shelter and fire pit. Restrooms are located at both ends of the campground. Be sure to bring cash for camping and visiting the reservoir, and you must have a license to fish. elkhead is the best warm-water fishery in the county with a healthy population of northern pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass and crappie that draws many anglers to the reservoir. In the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities and some fishers brave the ice to drop a line. If you are visiting Craig for its world renown hunting, the northern portion of the park offers big-game hunting after Labor Day during established seasons. A daily pass, available at a self-service dispenser, is $7 per vehicle and an annual pass can be purchased for $70 at the Yampa River State Park office near Hayden. Campers are required to purchase a $16 camping permit. DIreCtIons: From Craig, take Highway 40 east approximately 6 miles to Moffat County Road 29; turn left at the signs noting elkhead Reservoir and proceed approximately 3 miles to MCR 28. When: Boat ramps are open from sunrise to sunset from late May to mid-September. There are limited hours in the late summer and early fall. For more: elkhead Reservoir State Park, 970-276-2061, or www.parks.state.co.us — Patrick Kelly
elkhead Reservoir Photos by noelle leavitt riley
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A FLY FISHeRMAN eNJOYS A LeISUReLY DAY FISHING ON THe YAMPA RIVeR. Photo by John F. ruSSell
BOundless fishing holes Moffat County has many areas that provide phenomenal fishing opportunities. Anglers can pick between the gentle flow of the Yampa and Green rivers, the tranquility of elkhead and Freeman Reservoirs or stay in town at Loudy-Simpson Park for a place to drop a line. elkhead Reservoir is located 10 miles northeast of Craig and offers the best warm-water fishery in the county with an abundant population of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, northern pike and channel catfish. In Routt National Forest 20 miles north of Craig, the 17-acre Freeman Reservoir offers a similar fishery to elkhead but with the chance of hooking a cutthroat trout. The reservoir also has 17 campsites available for $12. Unlike elkhead, no motorized boats are allowed. The lower section of the Yampa River, from Craig over to Utah, has less trout than the eastern portion of the river around Steamboat Springs. Northern pike, channel catfish and other warm-water fish are common with larger trout sprinkled in. The Green River in the Northwest corner of Moffat County is popular for its excellent fly fishing and offers anglers a good shot at landing one of the several species of trout found in the river. In some areas only artificial flies and lures are allowed and visiting fishers should pay attention to posted restrictions. Fishing or launching watercraft from other’s private property is also prohibited. If you want to do your angling in Craig, Loudy-Simpson Park offers a pond stocked with northern pike, brown trout and rainbow trout. In 2014, the pond was dredged and renovated, making it better than ever. Glen Sherman Park at the Wyman Living History Museum provides a fishing hole for anglers under 16 or over 64, as well as those with disabilities. For kids under 12, Little Rascals Pond next to the Moffat County Public Safety Center is a fun spot to fish for trout. Fishing licenses are available throughout Craig and costs range from $1 for a senior citizen annual pass to $56 for an out-of-state annual pass. Nonresident five-day passes are also available for $21. Anyone over the age of 16 must purchase a license. Where: Yampa River, runs east to west through Moffat County; elkhead Reservoir State Park, Moffat County Road 29; Freeman Reservoir, 12 miles north of Craig on Colorado Highway 13 then nine miles on Moffat County Road 11; Green River, runs north to south in western Moffat County; Loudy-Simpson Park, 500 S. Ranney St., Craig; Wyman Museum, 94350 e. U.S. Highway 40, three miles east of Craig; Little Rascals Pond, 800 W. First St. For more: Sportsman Information, 970-824-3046, or www.visitmoffatcounty.com, or Yampa River State Park, 970-276-2061. — Patrick Kelly Moffat County Treasures
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LeFT: STeAMBOAT ROCK IN eCHO PARK. Photo by noelle leaVitt riley ABOVe: THe QUARRY eXHIBIT AT DINOSAUR NATIONAL MONUMeNT. courteSy Photo
Prehistoric roots yield must-see attractions If you’re looking for a Jurassic adventure, visit Dinosaur national Monument. several places exist throughout the monument — in both Colorado and utah — where you’ll feel as if you were transported back to the dinosaur ages. To get to the dinosaur bones, you must go to the Utah monument site. Although the actual dinosaur bones only reside in Utah, Dinosaur National Monument has several Moffat County site seeing and camping options, including the majestic echo Park where the famous Steamboat Rock sits at the confluence of the Yampa and Green rivers. echo Park is located 38 miles north of Dinosaur National Monument headquarters near the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers. Steamboat Rock, where the two rivers converge, is one of the most photographed places in the monument. echo Park Campground is a popular spot to spend the night, but use of high-clearance vehicles is advised. echo Park Campground is open year-round, but access is dependent on weather If you’re looking for dinosaur bones, head back out to U.S. Highway 40 and go west into Utah. Follow the signs to the dinosaur quarry. The fossils date to the Jurassic period — the period most highly acclaimed by Hollywood — which began about 208 million years ago, but visitors can see and touch rock layers that date back 1.1 billion years. In the canyons of the park, 23 of these rock layers can be seen. These ancient rocks make the geology of the area a sight to behold. President Woodrow Wilson declared the area a national park on Oct. 4, 1915 after paleontologist earl Douglass discovered a large amount of fossils in a quarry in northeastern Utah. Douglass was exploring the area for fossils to send back to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. After thousands of fossils were excavated and sent to the museum for study, Wilson set aside 80 acres to be considered National Park land. In 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt expanded the park to 210,000 acres in order to protect stretches of the Green River and the Yampa River. The monument spans across Colorado and Utah in the southeast portion of the Uinta Mountains, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. The Carnegie Quarry in Utah, where Douglass discovered many of the area’s fossils, is one of the park’s most famous locations. The quarry exhibit hall, which received an $8 million refurbishing job in 2011, houses more than 1,500 visible fossils. Ten different dinosaur species are represented in the quarry, but visitors may be surprised to find that a few of their most beloved film star dinosaurs are not on the rock wall, namely Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops, of “Jurassic Park.” That is because Hollywood didn’t get their dates exactly right. Those dinosaurs came long after the Jurassic period. Dinosaur National Monument celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2015. For more: Dinosaur National Monument Visitor Center, 970-374-3000, or www.nps. gov/dino — Derek Maiolo 12 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
Petroglyphs rock on throughout county Moffat County’s history includes some classic Wild West stories, from tales of Butch Cassidy and tom Horn to the sheep and cattle wars of the 19th and early 20th centuries. But modern settlement is only the tip of the historical iceberg, and some of the county’s earliest inhabitants left clues to their lives in this region etched into rock faces across the landscape. Petroglyphs and pictographs are numerous throughout Moffat County, and some of the most visible and accessible rock art can be found in Irish Canyon near Browns Park. On the southern end of the canyon, several panels of petroglyphs — depictions that have been carved rather than painted into a rock face — are thought to have been made by the Fremont people who inhabited the Browns Park area from about 300 to 1400 AD, according to archaeologist Brian Naze from the Bureau of Land Management Little Snake Field Office in Craig. “The Fremont made representations of humans in a certain style where the body is a trapezoid with broad shoulders and limbs as sticks and … square-shaped heads,” Naze said. The style of the human depictions are akin to those found in the Mesa Verde area, suggesting the tribes may have had contact or even traded with each other. “There’s a theory there that our Fremont folks were in contact with the Ancestral Puebloans, the Anasazi, and that influenced corn agricultural,” said archaeologist Michael Selle from the BLM White River Field Office in Meeker. The Fremonts were horticulturists, meaning they grew, harvested and stored corn in stone granaries hidden in well-concealed locations throughout Browns Park. DIreCtIons: Take U.S. Highway 40 west to Maybell, turn right on State Highway 318 and then right on Moffat County Road 10 North. A pullout on the right (east of the road) will be visible at the southern entrance to the canyon, and interpretive signs will highlight three separate rock art panels. For more: visit http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/lsfo/programs/recreation/irish_canyon.print.html. Remember to treat the sites with respect and do not touch them. Note: For an in-town view of petroglyphs, park at Moffat County High School and walk east toward the base of the Sandrocks, the large sandstone cliff faces that define Craig’s northern perimeter. A small, unmarked trail hugs the base of the cliff faces, where more recent petroglyphs likely made by Ute or Shoshoni peoples depict horses with elongated bodies and necks and bear paws. — Lauren Blair
Petroglyphs in echo Park are more than 1,0 00 years old. Photo by Scott Franz
Moffat County Treasures
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RIDeRS LeAD 400 HORSeS 62 MILeS DURING THe SOMBReRO RANCHeS GReAT AMeRICAN HORSe DRIVe. PhotoS by noelle leaVitt riley
Sombrero Horse Drive becomes world-known nothing says the Wild West like a horse drive, and every year in early May, visitors can have front row seats to witness one of the largest domestic horse drives in the state that moves across 60 miles of open range in Moffat County. The Sombrero Ranches Great American Horse Drive offers locals and visitors alike an exciting and unique opportunity to watch as hundreds of horses, flanked by about 75 riders, cruise through the town of Maybell 30 miles west of Craig. To be clear, the drive is to move ranch horses from one place to another. The horses are not from the wild horse herd in Sand Wash Basin — they’re ranch horses. Spectators line the streets to watch as the horses take over the highways, giving onlookers a taste of the old West. The event provides one-of-a-kind photo opportunities for photographers and a thrilling experience for the whole family. “It’s a really neat, once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Melanie Swearengin, chamber of commerce director from Conifer, Colorado who traveled to Maybell just for the event. “I’ve never seen anything like this.” The event began in 1962, and now draws riders from around the world who pay up to $2,500 to become a participant in the two-day drive. “I’m addicted,” said Sanne Timmers, who travels from the Netherlands each year to ride the drive. “I’ve met so many nice friends.” For more details about when and how to watch the drive, contact Moffat County Tourism Association at 970-824-2335 or go to visitmoffatcounty.com. For more information about participating in the drive, visit www.sombrero.com/adventures/ horse-drive. — Lauren Blair
Sombrero Ranches Great American Horse Drive
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Sage grouse tours grow in popularity
Moffat County is rich in natural resources and not just the kind that lie below ground. More than 350 species of wildlife roam the sagebrush steppe habitat that dominates Northwest Colorado, and one among them puts on a flashy performance for the ladies and a few lucky guests each spring. Greater sage grouse are iconic for their unusual mating ritual, during which male birds puff their chests and fan their tail feathers, fill two bright yellow-orange air sacs on their chest and release them with a rhythmic, popping sound. “even though you may have seen a picture of a grouse with its full plumage … if you haven’t been there and seen it all happen, it’s a completely different experience than what you’re expecting,” said Derek Cleverly, owner of Red Coyote Adventures. “It’s just the dance, the whole scene … it’s a unique spectacle that you can’t imagine.” Participants on Red Coyote Adventure’s sage grouse lek tours can get a rare peak at the ancient mating display of the greater sage grouse, which occurs in the wee hours of the morning in remote locations throughout the sagebrush. “It’s that adrenaline rush of getting there in the middle of the night through stormy weather and rough roads and watching this amazing bird strut its stuff,” said Conservation Colorado Field Organizer Sasha Nelson, who helped launch the tours six years ago. Moffat County is home to more than two-thirds of Colorado’s total greater sage grouse population, giving visitors the unique opportunity to see this bird in its natural element. Participants usually see more than just sage grouse; on any given morning, mule deer, elk and antelope may wander past the lek, or coyotes and golden eagles may swoop in and give the grouse a scare. “It starts you thinking about the whole ecological system in Moffat County,” Cleverly said. “You’re not just thinking about the birds, you’re thinking about the whole habitat that’s out there.” Tours take place only from mid-March to mid-April. Space is limited. For more: Contact Derek Cleverly at Red Coyote Adventures at 970-629-8499. — Lauren Blair
SAGe GROUSe LIVe THROUGHOUT MOFFAT COUNTY’S VAST SAGeBRUSH LAND. Photo by lauren blair
Moffat County Treasures
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Moffat County is a heaven for hunters
If you’re big on the great outdoors, Moffat County is already a great place for you to be, but if you’re on the hunt for a spot for you to engage in your favorite activity, look no further. Hunting is the name of the game for much of Northwest Colorado, and Craig and Moffat County love to see their annual visitors in camo and orange come back each fall, so much so that they made it official. In 2012, Craig registered the slogan “elk Hunting Capital of the World” as a true trademark to highlight the amazing outdoor opportunities the area has in store to share with the world. People come from around the globe for a chance at the antlered denizens of the landscape, and while over-the-counter licenses are available readily, a preference points system saves some of the most coveted locations for hunters who have waited for years at a time to get a shot at the best big game. Herd numbers in elk, deer and antelope in the area vary annually, but trends have been positive in recent years for all three animals. Antelope numbers are well over 10,000, while elk and deer congregate heavily in sections of Northwest Colorado including Bears ears and the White River area, north and south of Craig, respectively. elk counts for the 2015 season showed more than 20,000 around Bears ears and as much as 40,000 for White River, while both spots averaged about 40,000 in deer. And, the abundance of animals is well met by a long list of lodging, dining and shopping outlets that relish the chance to bring in hunters, not to mention experienced guides, outfitters and other specialized services providing all you could ever
MAYBELL
GENERAL STORE
60311 HWY 40 Maybell, CO 81640 970-272-3262
60311 HWY 40 • Maybell, CO 81640 • 970-272-3262
We’re not in the middle of nowhere but you can see it from here!
Stop in and see us! We have groceries, beer, ice, Colorado made gifts, & souvenirs. Check out our Maybell t-shirts & hats too. We also sell hunting & fishing licenses plus the gear to go with it! As a previous owner once said; “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it.”
Open 7 Days a Week Regular hours 7am – 7pm Monday – Saturday Sunday 8 am – 6pm
Call store for seasonal hours 16 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
21166036
Extended hours during hunting season
ABOVe: A RUTTING BULL eLK BUGLeS NeAR BROWNS PARK NATIONAL WILDLIFe ReFUGe. Photo courteSy oF yuri chicoVSky riGht Photo courteSy oF Sharma GraJeda
want to make your experience a memorable one for all ages. Whether you’re using a rifle for the first time outside of a hunter’s safety class or a well-seasoned sportsman who’s just getting around to our corner of the world, Moffat County welcomes you. For more information on hunting in Northwestern Colorado including outfitters and season dates, visit ColoradoHunter.com — Andy Bockelman
337 W. Victory - Craig, Colorado 970-824-1764
Open 3:30am during Hunting Season All American Breakfast & Homemade Green Chili Moffat County Treasures
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Museum of Northwest Colorado is a gem The Museum of Northwest Colorado offers visitors a genuine view into the history of Craig and Moffat County through its unique and extensive exhibits. Photos and art depict what life was like when Craig was founded in 1908 and pieces of history line the walls and fill glass cases in the museum, detailing times past. Housed in a 90-year-old armory, the museum features local and regional history displays in addition to its extensive Cowboy and Gunfighter Collection. The museum also houses a research room with an extensive collection of documents and photographs. Considered to be one of the world’s finest collections of Western accouterments, the Cowboy and Gunfighter Collection is the result of a five-decade effort by Craig resident Bill Mackin. Mackin’s collection features a variety of antique firearms, locally made saddles, custom cowboy chaps, spurs, horse bits and more in an outstanding representation of Western Americana. The extensive collection is also the basis of Mackin’s own book, “Cowboy and Gunfighter Collectibles.” Other exhibits include the “Death Duel,” a life-sized depiction of two mule deer locked in a fatal engagement; photos from homesteaders and pioneering wildlife photographers A.G. and Augusta Wallihan; and artifacts from Northwest Colorado’s indigenous peoples. With an enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff on hand to answer any questions and color the experience, the history of Northwest Colorado is on full display at the Museum of Northwest Colorado. When: Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays Where: 590 Yampa Ave., Craig For more: Museum of Northwest Colorado, 970-824-6360, or www.museumnwco.org — Patrick Kelly The cowboy and gunfighter collection showcases the regions western heritage. Photo by Patrick Kelly
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THe WYMAN LIVING HISTORY MUSeUM PROVIDeS YeAR-ROUND eVeNTS FOR CHILDReN OF ALL AGeS. Photo by noelle leaVitt riley
a Living history museum lou Wyman is a living relic in Craig. His love for collectibles helped him sprout an impressive museum on the east side of Craig. For decades, he’s been collecting anything and everything, providing museum guests with an opportunity to view aspects of the Western American life they won’t see anywhere else. Now, his assortment of historic items fills an entire warehouse-sized building and spills out onto the property. Old farm and ranch machinery, vehicles, a canvas boat, coal mine trucks and a large collection of smaller artifacts are available for viewing. The best part is that entrance to the museum is free. With such an extensive collection, Wyman guarantees there will be something you have never seen before. The Wyman Living History Museum also offers archers a place to shoot for free. Colorado Parks and Wildlife partnered with the museum to open a new archery range in 2014, offering bowmen and 4-H archers a great spot to practice. Not only does the range have standard archery targets, it also offers 3-D animal targets for practice. When: Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Closed Wednesdays. Where: 94350 e. U.S. Highway 40, three miles east of Craig For more: Wyman Museum, 970-824-6346, or www.wymanmuseum.com — Patrick Kelly
Visit junior the elk Junior — Craig’s pet elk — is the second elk that Lou Wyman has owned and displayed at the Wyman Living History Museum. After the death of the beloved Clyde the elk in October 2012 at the age of 18, Wyman was unsure whether or not he would find a replacement. Then Junior came along. Brought in from Plateau Valley elk Ranch near Rifle as three-year-old with a sixpoint rack, Junior has grown into a handsome example of his species. Junior quickly settled into his new home and will come running when you call him to receive some attention. He loves his treats and is occasionally spoiled with an Oreo cookie. Most afternoons you can catch him running around and playing. Moffat County Treasures
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The Wyman Museum has an archery shooting range for all ages. Photo by Andy Bockelman
Shooting ranges available for practice
Those looking to shoot a round or two have a few special options. If you like shooting rifles, archery or any other firearm, the following shooting ranges are available in Northwest Colorado: Bears Ears Sportsman Club Bears Ears Sportsman Club is a private club working toward advancing shooting sports skills. Members focus on a variety of disciplines, including cowboy action shooting, three-gun competition, bowling pin shooting, National Rifle Association bullseye competition and 4-H shooting sports. The range is open to the public Dec. 1 through March 31, as well as the first Friday and Saturday of every month. Where: Moffat County Road 7 For more: Bears Ears Sportsman Club, 970-824-7538, or www.bearsears.org Wyman Living History Museum Archery Pitch In 2014, the Wyman Museum added a 60-yard archery pitch to its grounds with free access for interested archers. After emptying their quiver, visitors can explore the fantastic collection of artifacts in the museum or visit with Junior, the resident pet elk. Where: 94350 E. U.S. Highway 40, three miles east of Craig For more: Wyman Museum, 970-824-6346, or www.wymanmuseum.com Craig Trap Club Craig Trap Club is a local club dedicated to the safe and fun enjoyment of trap shooting. Where: U.S. Highway 40 to Moffat County Road 64; first driveway on the right For more: Craig Trap Club, 970-629-8437, or www.facebook.com/craigtrapclub Hayden Shooting Range Although it is located in Routt County, Hayden’s range is the best public shooting spot in the area. A free outdoor range operated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, this is the perfect spot for uninterrupted shooting. The facility, open from dawn to dusk seven days a week, accommodates long gun, pistol and shotgun. Where: Three miles south of Hayden on Routt County Road 37 For more: Colorado Parks and Wildlife, 970-870-2197; Rainbow Sporting Goods, 970-276-3425 — Patrick Kelly 20 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
Craig Attractions MarCIa Car The Marcia Car was the personal railroad car of David H. Moffat, who brought the railroad from Denver to Craig. The Craig Chamber of Commerce purchased the car in 1953 to symbolize Moffat’s dream of building a railroad across the West. When: Tours are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, May through September weather permitting Where: Craig Chamber of Commerce, 360 e. Victory Way, Craig For more: Craig Chamber of Commerce, 866-332-8436, or www.craig-chamber.com CraIG CIty parK/veteran’s parK Located just off Victory Way, Craig City/Veteran’s Park is one of the best spots to have a picnic in Craig. The former host site for Whittle the Wood Rendezvous, Craig City/Veteran’s Park features more than 25 wood sculptures arranged around the open grass area. Adjacent to the Craig Swimming Complex and Marcia Car, the park is a hub for summer activities. Where: 605 Washington St., Craig For more: Craig Parks and Recreation, 970-826-2029
Rack 'em at the
Good Drinks • Fine Folks & The Best Pool Tables in Town 24 West Victory Way Craig, Colorado
970.824.6234
Trapper Mine is a surface coal mine located 6.5 miles southwest of Craig, Colorado. With an average annual production capacity of 2 million tons, it is a major Colorado coal producer. The name “Trapper” reflects local history; fur trapping was an important livelihood in the area.
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MOFFAT COUNTY
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Hospital Loop
Exmoor Rd
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Aspen Ave
Sandwash Basin
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Dinosaur National Monument
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Irish Canyon
Freema Reservoi
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Freeman Reservoir
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Steele St
Apple St Mariana
Crabb
Circle Dr
2nd St
Stout St
Victory Way 4th
Woodbury Park
Green St
Ledford St
Finley Ln
Columbine Ln
1st Ave W
8th Dr
Mack Ln
Barker
Field
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er rad Sch st Cre
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River View
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Aspen Ave Sequoia Ave Cottonwood Ave
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Black Mountain
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1st St 40 Bypass
Discover the hiDDen treasures of moffat county
Hands-on Visitor Experience Located in Centennial Mall
Moffat County tourisM t touris M assoCiation mp a R i Ya 1111 West Victory Way Craig, Co www.moffatcountry.com | 970-824-2335
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ve r
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Elmwood 14th St
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Craig City Park & Swimming Complex
Cooper
Bellaire
Yampa Ave
7th St
Ranney St Colo Hwy 394 / Ranney St
2nd St
2nd Pl
Preece
Moffat County Visitor Center & Craig Chamber of Commerce
Industrial
Fortifi cation Creek
Pershing St
Museum of NW CO
Washington St
8th St
Cra 46 Cra 97 ww
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Sloan
Van Dorn
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To Loudy-Simpson Park, Yampa Valley Golf Course, Craig-Moffat County Airport & Thunder Ridge Motorsports Park
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Welcome to Moffat County
Crockett Dr
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Rd ley Ash Craig Cemetery Williams Ln Jeffcoat t rS e alk W
Haughey Rd
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Colby
Dinosaur National Monument 4545 Highway 40 Fairway Dinosaur, CO 81610 970-374-3003 Canyon Area Visitor Center www.nps.gov/dino
Find out about area businesses at ExploreCraig.com Find local deals at ExploreCraigDeals.com Stay up on all of Moffat County’s news at CraigDailyPress.com Ashley Ct
Bryan Way
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Craig Daily Press 466 Yampa Ave. Craig, CO 81625 d ar Shep 970-824-7031 www.craigdailypress.com ch wa Ko lson Wi
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Moffat County Visitor Center Craig Chamber of Commerce 360 E. Victory Way Craig, CO 81625 1-800-864-4405 www.craig-chamber.com director@craig-chamber.com Director: Christina Oxley
Moffat County Tourism Association Tourism Center 1111 W. Victory Way Craig, CO 81625 1-866-332-8346 www.visitmoffatcounty.com mcta@moffatcounty.net Director: Melody Villard
ry cto Vi ay W
Bureau of Land Management
To Wyman Museum & Steamboat Springs
Preece
2nd Pl
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Stock Dr
www.craigpowersports.com˙ 970-826-0060
8:30am - 5:30pm Tue–Fri 8:30 - 3:00pm Saturday
26 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
Moffat County tourisM assoCiation
1111 West Victory Way Craig, Co Moffat County Treasures | 27 www.moffatcountry.com | 970-824-2335
www.craigpowersports.com 970-826-0060 8:30am - 5:30pm Tue–Fri 8:30 - 3:00pm Saturday
28 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
MoFFat County FaIr The Moffat County Fair is a local tradition highlighting the area’s agricultural heritage. Take in such events an open horse show, stock show and a fashion review, then stick around for the goat roping, live music, contests and other events for all ages. When: First week of August Where: Moffat County Fairgrounds, 640 e. Victory Way, Craig For more: Moffat County extension Office, 970-824-9180, or www.moffatcountyfair.com BoWlInG A great place for large parties or to spend a leisurely afternoon or night out, the 16-lane Thunder Rolls Bowling Center has food, full bar, pool tables and character to spare. It is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to midnight Fridays; 1 p.m. to midnight Saturdays; and 1 to 9 p.m. Sundays. Where: Thunder Rolls Bowling Center, 990 Industrial Ave., Craig For more: Thunder Rolls Bowling Center, 970-824-2695.
Stop in and see us today! Hunting Licenses Sporting goods Guns Jewelry & so much more 801 E VICTORY WAY (970) 824-2962 sales@northwest-pawn.com • Sweet Tea • Iced Tea • Coffee • Mocha • Latte • Cappuccino • Smoothies • Frescante • Chai Tea MUCH MORE!
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Moffat County Treasures
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A MIXeD MeDIA PAINTING BY CHRISTIAN DORe, “FLIGHT,” HANGS IN THe eAST HALLWAY OF THe COLORADO NORTHWeSTeRN COMMUNITY COLLeGe MAIN BUILDING. Photo courteSy oF JeFF Stoddard
loCal art at CnCC Walk the halls and view the artwork on the walls of Colorado Northwestern Community College’s Craig campus. Adorned with works by local and regional artists, as well as some by artists from around the state and nation, the varying pieces offer something for everyone to enjoy. Where: CNCC Craig campus, 2801 W. Ninth St. in Craig. Fore more: 800-562-1105 or www.cncc.edu/cms/content/campuses-servicecenters-craig louDy-sIMpson parK Loudy-Simpson Park is a treasure trove of outdoor activities. With soccer fields, four baseball and softball fields, plentiful fishing spots, jogging and walking trails and a playground, there is no lack of options. Fishing is especially popular in the spring and summertime, with plenty of space on a pier. There is ice-skating at the Moffat County Ice Arena from October to mid-March When: Year-round, though trails are best from spring to fall Where: 600 S. Ranney St., Craig For more: Loudy-Simpson Park, 970-824-3011, or www.co.moffat.co.us, or www.visitmoffatcounty.com Wave pool at CraIG sWIMMInG CoMpleX Craig boasts the only wave pool complex on the Western Slope. It also has a lap and diving pool. The wave pool begins at zero-depth, making it perfect for swimmers of all ages. When: June 1 to the end of August: 1 to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 1 to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Where: 605 Washington St., Craig For more: Craig Swimming Complex, 970-824-3105, or www.ci.craig.co.us
Wave Pool at Craig Swimming Complex
30 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
Devries farm market has provided fresh produce for craig patrons for 45 years. photo by Lauren blair
Farmers Markets offer healthy, fresh food options DeVries Farm Market When: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, June through October Where: Somewhere along Victory Way If you’re looking for a full selection of Western Slope fruits and veggies, visit DeVries Farm Market from about 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Wednesday. The Grand Junctionbased farm sets up shop in Craig one day per week from June through October along Victory Way. Past locations include the parking lot of Walgreens and the Yampa Valley Medical Center (old Safeway) parking lot. Make sure to try their on-site roasted green chiles, available hot, medium or mild. Other highlights include West Slope peaches, plums, apricots and apples, a wide array of homemade salsas, sauerkraut and preserves, heirloom tomatoes, summer and fall veggies and colorful pumpkins and gourds. Make sure to say hi to Bill and daughter Shauna DeVries while you’re there! Downtown Farmers Market When: Noon to 6 p.m. Thursdays, June through September Where: Alice Pleasant Park in downtown Craig, on Yampa Avenue between Victory Way and 6th Street For a true taste of Craig, stop by the Downtown Farmers Market from noon to 6 p.m. each Thursday from June through September. The market features local vendors providing home-grown produce, prepared and specialty foods, framed art, household crafts and more. Make sure to take home a jar of local Yampa Gold Honey and a pie from local baker Bob Grubb. It’s also a great place to pick up some handcrafted gifts. For more information, contact Bob Grubb at 970-620-4243. — Lauren Blair
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Yampa Valley Golf Course is a hole-in-one In the heart of northwest Colorado lies the yampa valley Golf Course. the oldest and most affordable 18-hole facility in the yampa valley. First opened in 1968, the Yampa Valley Golf Course lies beside the lazy Yampa River and plays through and over 240 acres of cottonwoods, wetlands, native grasses and sage. YVGC is a golf course where everyone is welcome and treated like family. You won’t find a better welcome for a golf course. Of course the Yampa Valley Golf Course is a great place to play a round of golf, but it is also another one of our hidden gems when it comes to wildlife and bird watching. eagles nest comfortably amongst the cottonwoods and other birds of prey. Osprey is a common spring and summer sight, diving for fish in the course’s ponds and along the river banks. Mule deer, fox and squirrel are common sights as well. You may even have to play through the occasional curious pair of raccoons. The gorgeous Yampa Valley views from the course will make playing through a pleasure. The real treat is the opportunity to enjoy the course year round. Walking the course provides a healthy way to enjoy this little nature oasis just 5 short minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Craig community. There are groomed cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails around the course in the winter that extend the enjoyment of the course long after the last of the beautiful golden leaves have fallen. Photographers enjoy the abundant chances to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset, sandhill crane nests, osprey hunt, raccoon antics and even some flashy dragonflies. All the while, only a few minutes from town. There is a full service restaurant on the property and the Craig-Moffat County Airport is within walking distance if you want to fly in for a round. DIreCtIons: Drive south on Ranney Street in Craig, across the bridge over the Yampa River and turn left onto Colorado State Highway 394. Head east on Colo. 394 approximately 8/10 of a mile to the entrance to the golf course. Carefully follow the winding road just over 1 mile to the clubhouse. For more information contact the Moffat County Tourism Association at 970-824-2335 or 866-332-8436, www.visitmoffatcounty.com. — Moffat County Tourism Association
Yampa Valley Golf Course Photo by noelle leavitt riley
32 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
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PLAN TO STAY AT
THE BEAUTIFUL MAYBELL PARK Now Open all year!!! FEES MUST BE PAID UPON ARRIVAL. CASH OR CHECK ONLY Campsites are filled on a first come, first serve basis. Located in the heart of Maybell, CO right off of US Hwy 40. For questions or assistance, please call the caretaker at (970)756-2575. (970)272-3718 or (970)272-3080
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FReeMAN ReSeRVOIR. Photo courteSy oF Sharyl chaPman
Half-day trip: Freeman a hot spot for recreation the fall colors are promising to be spectacular in northwest Colorado. Freeman reservoir has been a favorite place for the locals to take in the colors for years. This trip is a very easy half-day trip for those wishing to capture the beautiful color changing, or overnight stay for those wishing to really explore the area. Do take precautions and be aware of hunting activity that may be happening in the area as well. to get there: Go north 13 miles from Craig on Colorado Highway 13. Take Moffat County Road 11, a distance of 9 miles to the Routt National Forest’s reservoir site. MCR 11 winds through the forest 9 miles to the Freeman Reservoir site and offers fantastic fall foliage views, however, be cautious of other drivers and sharp, winding curves. A great fishing hole, of native cut-throat trout fishing, awaits the angler here. You will pass the Sherman Youth Camp and Recreation Area on your way up. The youth camp is a great place, offering group camping and a gathering place for organizational outings, weddings, family reunions, hunting parties and more. Call 970824-5517 for reservation information. The Freeman Reservoir campground is located near the end of the road at the 17-acre reservoir site. There are 18 campsites with both pull-through and back-in sites, vault toilets, potable water and garbage services. Near the campground is a picnic area and boat ramp. Fishing is available but no motor-propelled water craft, including electric or internal combustion engines, are permitted. Bring your own firewood. The campground offers horse trailer parking as well as corrals for overnight stays. This area accesses several mountain bike, horse and hiking trails. The 3.5-mile Black Mountain hiking trail to the 10,800-foot summit is an easy climb offering sensational views of the Yampa Valley and into Utah and Wyoming. The Sawmill Creek campground is accessible from here and offers dispersed camping. Please pack out what you pack in. There are no restroom or water services at this campground. For more information contact the Moffat County Tourism Association at 970-824-2335 or 866-332-8436, www.visitmoffatcounty.com — Moffat County Tourism Association
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Day trip: Godiva Rim takes you off trail the Godiva rim is a great way to get off the beaten path and enjoy all of Moffat County. Located in the heart of Moffat County the Godiva Rim is an imposing anticline overlooking the entire Yampa Valley. Looking to the west you can see Browns Park, the Vermillion Basin and Sand Wash surrounded by Douglas Mountain, Diamond Mountain and Cold Springs. Looking to the east you can see the area encompassed by Black Mountain, Bakers Peak, Medicine Bow Mountains, the Gore Range of the Continental Divide, and the White River wilderness. On your way to Browns Park or Sand Wash it is a great side loop of about 25 miles, taking two hours round trip from Colorado Highway 318. The views are spectacular at sunrise and sunset. For a special treat with the full moon rise over the Rockies you may even see Lady Godiva riding along the ridge, hair flying. To access the Godiva Rim: Take U.S. Highway 40 to Maybell, turn west onto Colo. 318. The road follows the Yampa River Valley six miles before crossing the river at Sunbeam. Continue on Colo. 318 another seven miles across Peck Mesa and descend to the Little Snake River Valley. Moffat County Road 21 flanks the river on the east side. The road is paved to this point. Turn north onto MCR 21, the road is gravel and well maintained, travel north 3 ¼ miles to BLM Road 2124, the Godiva Rim access road. Turn east on BLM road 2124 and ascend the ridge. There are several lookouts to the west as you climb. The road is suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles in good weather, but should not be attempted when wet conditions exist. The climb to the rim is 5 ½ miles to the east. Upon reaching the crest of Godiva Rim the road turns north and follows the crest for 4 ½ miles. There are many places to stop and view the valley to the east. The road drops off steeply on the north end to Moffat County Road 71. Turn west on MCR 71 for 1 ¼ miles and return to MCR 21. Turn back south and return to Colo. 318. For more information contact the Moffat County Tourism Association at 970-824-2335 or 866-332-8436 , www.visitmoffatcounty.com — Moffat County Tourism Association Photo courteSy oF larry hooVer
Fre
eW
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Location: 994 Yampa Ave - Craig, CO
Moffat County Treasures
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D
Half-day trip: Head out to Price Creek Road the price Creek road, also known as Moffat County road 57, is a great morning or afternoon trip to not only take in the changing colors but also the exposed geological features. This trip is a very easy half-day trip for those wishing to capture the beautiful color changing. To make a loop back to Craig you will find that Meeker is a good halfway point. to get there: Go west 28.7 miles from Craig on U.S. Highway 40. Take MCR 57 south about 39 miles to Colorado Highway 64. Turn left onto Colo. 64 and drive one mile to the Colorado Highway 13 intersection. Turn left and drive just over two miles into the heart of Meeker. The drive from Meeker back up Colo. 13 passing Iles Grove, Morapas Creek and Hamilton is just over 45 miles. MCR 57/Price Creek Road is paved the whole length of the drive and is another example of our hidden treasures being a bit off the beaten path. There are many old ranches along this route and the remnants are great for old barn and old building photos. The geological features that can be seen along the Price Creek Road are a treat to view, especially the moonscape looking area just at the county boarder of Moffat and Rio Blanco counties. There are several of these type of rock outcroppings along the way. There is even a small version of the Flat Irons that are so popular near Boulder. One can imagine the outlaw trails hidden in deep in the valleys along the drive. The ranching and farming history is nearly as deep as some of the draws along the way as well. Many of the structures are still standing nearby the road, as if they are patiently awaiting the rustler’s return. — Moffat County Tourism Association
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Te r i Danny &
Day trip/camping trip: Cross Mountain Canyon Overlook offers views Cross Mountain Canyon overlook provides a great summertime excursion for a day trip or overnight camping. to get there: Take U.S. Highway 40 approximately 45 miles from the intersection of Colorado Highways 13 and 40 in Craig to mile marker 44. Turn north on the Deerlodge Park Road. Travel north two miles Moffat County Road 123. The road is paved to this point. Turn right (east) onto MCR 123 and follow it one ½ mile to an unmarked intersection near the top of the ridge. Turn left onto a BLM road and follow about three miles to the trailhead. A rough unmarked hiking trail leaves to the canyon overlook. Follow the trail downhill through the gate for 50 yards, and then ascend the ridge north, left to the canyon overlook. The hike is about ¼ mile each way. There are no barriers at the overlook, so please watch your step. After you leave the pavement, the road is rocky in spots. A pick-up or SUV with good tires is recommended. A spectacular view awaits you. Bakers Peak, Black Mountain, and Mount Zirkel loom in the distance while far below the Yampa River tunnels through Cross Mountain Canyon. Observe the world famous cataracts with names such as Mammoth Falls, The Snake Pit, and Pour Over City enticing thrill seekers to challenge the rapids. eagles and peregrine falcons may be seen soaring below in the canyon. Pinyon pine and juniper trees provide habitat for deer, elk, black bear and mountain lion. Primitive overnight camping is allowed on adjacent BLM lands. There is no water or other amenities available here, so come prepared. A developed campground at Deerlodge Park is a short distance away. To get there, return to the paved road and follow to the campground, about 10 miles. Many outstanding hiking opportunities abound on this section of Cross Mountain. Hike to the ridges to the west for rock hounding sites and spectacular vistas of Douglas Mountain and Lily Park where the Little Snake River empties into the Yampa River. For more information contact the Moffat County Tourism Association at 970-824-2335 or 866-332-8436, www.visitmoffatcounty.com — Moffat County Tourism Association Photo courteSy oF lucS berGStrom
Amazing Wine and Beer Selection. 970-826-0071 • 539 E. Victory Way, Craig
Moffat County Treasures
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Winter sports Moffat County is a magical place for snowmobilers, sledders, skaters Moffat County has plenty of outdoor activities for your itinerary at any time of the year, but once the weather gets chillier, you can access a whole new kind of fun within the winter wonderland. With miles and miles of wide-open space, a blanket of powder means hours of joy for the avid snowmobile rider. Some locals make good money and have plenty of riproaring fun competing in the Xtreme Mountain Racing circuit throughout the winter at spots around Colorado and Wyoming. For those who want to make tracks without the use of a motor, opportunities abound in every direction for cross country skiing, though one of the best spots to do so is the grounds of Yampa Valley Golf Course, providing plenty of flat space and the occasional small slope to keep it interesting. Within city limits, family activities are abundant once the temperature drops, and after a good snowfall, be sure to head for the hills — sledding hills that is, with some good rides guaranteed at locations like the basin-like practice field at Moffat County High School and Cathy Cisar Hill north of town. Snow is superb, but ice is nice, too, and from October through March the Moffat County Ice Arena at Loudy-Simpson Park offers hours of cool thrills from public skating to curling to hockey leagues, so lace up those skates and join the fun. snoWMoBIlInG Whether it’s riding or racing, there’s plenty of snowmobiling in Moffat County. The Northwest Colorado Snowmobile Club maintains groomed trails at the Black Mountain parking area, Freeman Reservoir parking area and the Wilderness Ranch. Where: Black Mountain, take Colorado Highway 13 about 10 miles north of Craig to the Black Mountain turnoff; Freeman Reservoir, 11 miles north of Craig on Colorado Highway 13 to Moffat County Road 11; Wilderness Ranch, about 25 miles north of Craig on Colo. 13 to Moffat County Road 38. For more: Northwest Colorado Snowmobile Club, 970-824-5821, or www.northwestcoloradosnowmobileclub.org; XMR www.xmr-racing.com File Photo
38 | 2016 Visitor’s Guide
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1776 W. VICTORY WAY CRAIG
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1111 West Victory Way Craig, CO 81625 Book your event at the Centennial Mall!
For more information visit: www.centennialmall.com or call: 970-326-6368 Moffat County Treasures
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Cross countr y skiing at the golf course Photo by lauren blair
Cross Country sKIInG There are few better workouts and fewer still that can take you to places in deep winter, where the landscape is untouched and wildlife abound. Cross country skiing also takes place at Yampa Valley Golf Course, one of the more popular destinations in Moffat County. Where: Yampa Valley Golf Course, 2179 Colorado Highway 394, Craig For more: Moffat County Tourism Office, 866-332-8436 or www.visitmoffatcounty. com; Yampa Valley Golf Course, 970-824-3673 or www.yampavalleygolf.com snoWsHoeInG Snowshoeing is one of the best ways for sightseers to easily travel into Northwest Colorado’s wilderness when wintry conditions prevent normal hiking or vehicle access. Where: Throughout Moffat County For more: Moffat County Tourism Office, 866-332-8436 or www.visitmoffatcounty.com sleDDInG There are not many things easier or more fun that grabbing a sled, inner tube or piece of cardboard and flying down a nearby hill. There are countless places throughout Craig and Moffat County to go sledding, but locals often flock to a couple favorites. Where: Cathy Cisar Hill, 13th and Ranney streets, Craig; the hill in front of Moffat County High School, 900 Finley Lane, Craig. For more: Moffat County Tourism Office, 866-332-8436 or www.visitmoffatcounty.com
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PARTICIPANTS IN THe ICe FISHING DeRBY AT THe WYMAN MUSeUM DISCUSS THeIR FISHING TeCHNIQUeS. File Photo
Ice fishing offers chilling good time With elkhead reservoir state park being a 10-minute drive from downtown Craig, it is the primary spot for ice fishing, but any of the regional lakes offer fantastic winter fishing opportunities. The warm-water fishery at elkhead is still active through the winter months but it might take a little more skill to land a fish than it would in the summer season. Before heading out on to the reservoir, call the park office to see what the conditions are and always remember to be safe when treading on the ice. Avoid snowdrifts, which create thinner ice layers, and make sure ice is at least four inches thick when walking and drilling fishing holes, or six to eight inches for snowmobile traffic. Ice fishing is also popular at the Wyman Living History Museum. Where: elkhead Reservoir, Moffat County Road 29, northeast of Craig, or LoudySimpson Park, 600 S. Ranney St., Craig For more: elkhead Reservoir State Park, 970-276-2061 or www.parks.state.co.us; Colorado Division of Wildlife 970-878-6090 or www.wildlife.state.co.us; Moffat County Tourism Office, 866-332-8436 or www.visitmoffatcounty.com. — Patrick Kelly
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Whittle the Wood Rendezvous: A little slice of Craig’s best If it’s June in Craig, you may want to take a trip down to loudy-simpson park. The annual Whittle the Wood Rendezvous is a spectacular summer celebration that has become the town’s signature yearly event and a draw for tourists as woodcarver artisans come from across the country to create something unique. In 2016, Whittle the Wood takes place June 15 to 18 where carvers are presented with a healthy log and given several days to use their chainsaws and a variety of other tools to make anything they want. The competition’s entries have ranged from comic book superheroes to cowboys to aliens to Native American icons, though many of the favorites have been animals like eagles, cougars and other wildlife that looks shockingly real once these experts have finished their task. Watching them work each day and viewing each stump’s progress is enough of a show in itself, but that’s far from the whole shebang as the weekend nears and the festival really gets going. Whittle the Wood started in 1999 as a small crafts event coupled with carvers who were brought in to turn a selection of dead cottonwood trees in Craig City Park into something more pleasing to the eye. As enthusiasm revved up each year, organizers with Craig Parks & Recreation continued to expand the features by bringing in more carvers, more vendors, more everything, as crowds continued to turn out, with a peak of more than 10,000, part of the reason planners moved the gathering to the larger Loudy-Simpson Park. In recent years, the Bear River Young Life Car and Motorcycle Show has been attached to the schedule as the fun has spread to downtown Craig as well as the park. Also, if you travel virtually anywhere in town, you’ll be able to find an entry from years past. The week concludes with a final concert preceded by numerous musical sets, and among the headliners to rock the audience have been Rare earth, Blue Öyster Cult, The Outlaws, Cracker, Atlanta Rhythm Section and Jefferson Starship. There is no cost for admission, though you’ll likely want to bring your wallet regard-
Whittle the Wood Rendezvous
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DAUGHTeR AND MOTHeR CARVeRS NICOLe, LeFT, AND FAYe BRAATeN, BOTH OF LOVeLAND, COLORADO, JOKINGLY FACe OFF WITH THeIR CHAIN SAWS DURING THe 15TH ANNUAL WHITTLe THe WOOD ReNDeZVOUS IN 2014.. Photo by andy bockelman
less because those selling their wares — including the carvers themselves — always bring great inventory. Trust us, you won’t be able to resist picking up a homemade masterwork for yourself, a friend or a family member. Whittle the Wood traditionally takes place the week leading up to Father’s Day, which makes it a wonderful happening to share with those closest to you. Ask anyone in Craig, and they’ll tell you it’s a cut above the rest. — Andy Bockelman
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HOT AIR BALLOONS TAKe OFF AT LOUDY-SIMPSON PARK. Photo by noelle leaVitt riley
Moffat County Balloon Festival: sky high fun things start to heat up in Craig as august comes around, but not for the reason you might expect. The annual Moffat County Balloon Festival started in 2010 with only four hot air balloon pilots launching in the early morning summer sky, but this favorite event has grown in attendance every year, with more and more of the colorful crafts providing an amazing spectacle over Loudy-Simpson Park. The day is jam-packed with activities, demonstrations and contests for all ages following the launch, as well as live music, something a little different every year, making it hard not to let your entire day float away having fun. Once it begins to get dark, pilots set up their balloons again to participate in the balloon glow, with people in the crowd getting a closer look at these grounded beauties, gorgeously lit up against the nighttime sky. Time will tell how big it will soar year by year, but this fabulous gathering is one both locals and tourists love. When: early August Where: Loudy-Simpson Park, 600 S. Ranney St. For more: www.mcballoonfestival.com — Andy Bockelman
Balloon Glow Photo by andy bockelman
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Other treasures Gates oF loDore At Gates of Lodore in Dinosaur National Monument, spectacular red canyon walls tower above the Green River. The canyon narrows to steep cliffs that squeeze the river into Class 4 rapids. White-water rafting is by permit only. Picnicking, camping, hiking and wildlife viewing also are available. The site offers 18 campgrounds that boast running water in the warm months only. When: Year-round Where: Northern Dinosaur National Monument, Moffat County Road 34 off Colorado Highway 318 in western Moffat County. The drive lasts about one hour, 45 minutes. For more: Ranger station, 970-365-3693 or www.nps.gov/dino eCHo parK echo Park is located 38 miles north of Dinosaur National Monument headquarters near the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers. Steamboat Rock, where the two rivers converge, is one of the most photographed places in the monument. echo Park Campground is a popular spot to spend the night, but use of high-clearance vehicles is advised. When: echo Park Campground is open year-round, but access is dependent on weather For more: Dinosaur National Monument Visitor Center, 970-374-3000 or www.nps. gov/dino BroWns parK natIonal WIlDlIFe reFuGe Browns Park is a high desert valley formed by the Green River in northwest Moffat County. “Browns Hole,� as it used to be known, was a favorite watering hole of the Ute and Shoshone Indians and was also a haven for outlaws such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Browns Park is also home to Two Bar Ranch with log buildings, corrals and sheds built in 1887. Browns Park is a popular wildlife viewing and bird-watching area and also offers fishing for license holders. Camping is available, though services are limited. Take along food, water and gasoline. Where: Northwest Moffat County on Colorado Highway 318. The drive lasts from one hour and 45 minutes to two hours. For more: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 970-365-3613 or www.fws.gov/brownspark loDore Hall Lodore Hall was built in 1911 and was used for a church and school and for meetings and funerals. The hall has been restored to its original condition and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It can be used as a community center, pending prior approval from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Where: Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge, off Colorado Highway 318 in northwest Moffat County For more: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, 970-365-3613 or www.fws.gov IrIsH Canyon The colorful and scenic canyon offers sightseeing, picnicking, camping, hiking, climbing, wildlife viewing and Indian rock art. The canyon was named for three Irishmen who robbed a Rock Springs, Wyoming, saloon and stopped to consume part of the take in the north end of the canyon. Where: Moffat County Road 10N off Colorado Highway 318. The drive lasts about one hour and 15 minutes. For more: Bureau of Land Management, 970-826-5000 or www.blm.gov
Moffat County Treasures
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Vermillion Falls This 25-foot waterfall located on public land may be viewed as a great side trip on your way to Browns Park or Irish Canyon. Where: Near mile marker 20 on Colorado Highway 318 in western Moffat County For more: Bureau of Land Management, 970-826-5000 or www.visitmoffatcounty.com Deerlodge Park Exceptional camping in Dinosaur National Monument, Deerlodge Park is close to the Yampa River, and fishing and rafting opportunities abound. Seven campsites, picnic tables and fire rings are open year-round. When: Year-round Where: 60 miles west of Craig on Deerlodge Park Road For more: Dinosaur National Monument, 970-374-3000 or www.nps.gov/dino Black Mountain Black Mountain, located northeast of Craig in Routt National Forest, offers spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery, unlimited picnic areas and the potential to view some of the more than 300 species of wildlife that inhabit the region. Camping areas serve as base camps for day hikes and hunting and fishing trips. Non-motorized trails offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, and motorized trials are available close by. Where: Take Colorado Highway 13 several miles north of Craig to the Black Mountain turnoff For more: U.S. Forest Service, 970-870-2299 or www.visitmoffatcounty.com Duffy Mountain With a summit 7,090 feet above sea level, Duffy Mountain offers hiking south of Craig, near Hamilton. With access to the Yampa River, boating, camping and fishing are popular activities. Motor vehicle use is limited to designated roads. Where: Located 30 miles south of Craig on Colorado Highway 13 For more: Bureau of Land Management, 970-826-5000 or www.blm.gov Cross Mountain Cross Mountain is a 7,804-foot mountain 44 miles west of Craig. Nine miles wide and four miles long, the mountain is dissected by the Yampa River and offers a chance to view elk, mule deer, antelope, coyote, and the occasional black bear and mountain lion. The area offers visitors backpacking and hiking opportunities. Where: 44 miles west of Craig on U.S. Highway 40 For more: Bureau of Land Management, 970-826-5000 or www.blm.gov. Douglas Mountain This wilderness study area spans more than 18,000 acres and is a prime location for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing and solitude. It also offers scenic views of Dinosaur National Monument and the Yampa River Basin. Where: West of Maybell, take Moffat County Road 318 north, then take Moffat County Road 10 west For more: Bureau of Land Management, 970-826-5000 or www.blm.gov Lookout Mountain With 6,500 acres of high desert shrub lands and pinion juniper, Lookout Mountain is a place reminiscent of Colorado’s past. Lookout Mountain offers scenic views of Moffat County and Vermillion Bluffs. Where: 34 miles northwest of Maybell, take Colorado Highway 318 north, then take Moffat County Road 67 north For more: Moffat County Tourism Office, 866-332-8436 or www.visitmoffatcounty.com Iles Grove Iles Grove features hunting and spectacular views south of Hamilton. Iles Grove is one of the last remaining tree steads in the region. Where: West of Hamilton, 15 miles south of Craig When: Open for hunting for September to February Fore more: www.visitmoffatcounty.com
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