Destination fall 2017 (opt) by Kristen Czaban

FALL/WINTER 2017 THE GREAT

OUTDOORS 60 61 62 66

PUT IT ON ICE

TAKING AIM

Rock climbers take to different

Get the game, then

terrain in winter months.

the work begins.

FRESH POWDER

FAMILY FUN

Snowmobiling adds adventure,

Generations connect

revenue to Wyoming winters.

through hunting.

HOME

PATIENCE, LUCK AND A LITTLE SKILL

Small business owners

Wildlife photography a

with the best backyards

rewarding winter pursuit

44 WYOMING DAY TRIPS

COZY UP Forest Service cabin rentals offer nearby getaways all year.

6 spots to check out this winter

Ice fishing Sledding Bighorn Mountains Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing 68 Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area

ARTS &

ENTERTAINMENT 70 72 74 76 78 80 81 82 84 85 86 88 90

The Brinton Museum Craft beverages SAGE Community Arts WYO Theater Sheridan theater scene Whitney Rink Sheridan County Public Library System Community holiday dinner Craft bazaars Christmas stroll Sheridan County Museum Trail End State Historic Site Area battlefields

ALSO INCLUDED: 94 Community of Big Horn 95 Community of Story 96 Town of Clearmont 97 Town of Dayton 98 Town of Ranchester 100 Wyoming Information Center 102 Sheridan County census data 104 Advertising directory 4

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WELCOME TO SHERIDAN! From the Chamber of Commerce

Whether from the area or visiting our beautiful community, the Chamber of Commerce and our business community welcome you to experience the Sheridan area. Sheridan County boasts a strong, diverse economy, which provides countless opportuni-

ties for residents, visitors and businesses. We take pride in our historic Main Street and city full of vibrant retail stores, restaurants and service businesses, all ready to create your one-of-a-kind experience. In our outlying areas, you’ll find quaint towns with unique shops and charming people. For the outdoor lover, the Sheridan area is a gold mine for enjoying nature’s beauty with world-renowned hunting, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and other outdoor recreation opportunities. Visit the incredible Bighorn Mountains, stroll our city pathways or take your family skating at the Whitney Rink at the M&M’s Center.

Art and culture are also mustdos on the list of experiences in the Sheridan area. Catch a fantastic show or concert at the historic WYO Theater or Whitney Center for the Arts, visit our many art galleries, check out the sculptures throughout the downtown area or take an art class at one of our art centers. History lovers will find fascinating museums, battle sites and cemeteries. Thanks to high quality schools, medical facilities and senior services, as well as a low crime rate, friendly neighbors and low taxes, Sheridan is the perfect place for families and retirees. Businesses in the Sheridan area enjoy a tax-friendly business climate, low property

taxes and no state income tax. A highly-trained and ready workforce and numerous business resources make the Sheridan area ripe for starting and growing a business. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, we would love for you to stop by the Chamber of Commerce office at 171 N. Main St. in our historic downtown. We can help you make the most of your time in Sheridan County and connect you with all the opportunities and experiences our area has to offer.

Dixie Johnson, CEO Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce

From the county commissioners The Sheridan County Board of County Commissioners welcomes you to Sheridan County. You will discover that our fine county is a welcoming place. Our citizens who chose to live, work and raise their

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families in Sheridan County are imbued with our Western heritage and culture and proud to share it with others. Part of that heritage is the Sheridan brand of Western hospitality. Don’t be surprised if a total

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stranger waves to you from their truck or says “Howdy” when you pass on Main Street. It’s the Sheridan way. It has been since Sheridan County was established in 1888. Quality of life is a hallmark of Sheridan County. It makes people want to stay here, and draws others to move here or visit. An important role for the commission is to ensure that Sheridan County continues to be a wonderful place to live and that conditions and services maintain pace with public need. Foremost in this effort is comprehensive land use planning that strives to maintain the existing quality of life for current and future generations balanced by a healthy respect for individual property rights. Sheridan County is fortunate to have extensive public input

in the planning process. We are proud of our participatory approach to managing the future. Sheridan County is protective of what it has—its people, its landscape, its diversity, its quality of life. But we are willing to share it with others. We welcome new people, new businesses and new ideas. We welcome those who have a shared interest in our wonderful heritage. Come and see us. You’ll be more than welcome.

Sheridan County commissioners From left are Tom Ringley, Steve Maier, Terry Cram, Mike Nickel and Bob Rolston.

From Sheridan Travel & Tourism

Perhaps you came out west expecting to watch cowboys drive horses through the streets of downtown; pronghorn butting heads on windswept bluffs; clouds encircling the towering granite pinnacles of the Bighorn Mountains; and endless expanses of wild, open country. These are some of the fibers that have been stitched together over time to create the patchwork quilt of Sheridan’s identity, each part and parcel to the Wyoming experience. But what you may not have been expecting when you came way out west was a thriving, historic downtown district, with western allure, hospitality and good graces to spare; a vibrant art scene; a robust festival and events calendar; and living history on every corner. And you’ve decided to visit during a very exciting time of year. Winter is here, and winter in Wyoming always seems wilder than it does in other places. Deep in the backcountry of the Bighorn Mountains, lost someplace in the Bighorn National Forest, you’ll spy lodgepole pine wearing garlands of shimmering ice, while old bull moose crowned by heavy antlers strut through forests wreathed with popcorn rime. Great rock monoliths like Black Tooth, Hallelujah and The Innominate rise more than 12,000 feet from the earth, lording over 189,039 acres of raw wild known as the Cloud Peak Wilderness. Mountains cast in flint, pew8

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ter and slate buttress valleys troughed by ancient glaciers, while coyotes bound through alpine meadows hunting for skittish game. You can traverse high country lakes capped with thick blankets of snow, and rivers raging through deep canyons patrolled by mountain lions of considerable territorial nature. From May through October, the Bighorns draw recreation enthusiasts from across the nation, many eager to fish, hike, hunt, camp, bike and run. But when winter comes, the Bighorns are transformed into a kingdom of ice and snow, a frosty playground that rewards the intrepid traveler with untrammeled hiking, skiing and snowshoe trails, epic vistas, unparalleled wildlife viewing, and a glimpse at parts otherwise unknown. And things are really warming up downtown. You’ll find cozy coffee shops and cafes, historic outfitters, fantastic shopping and plenty more. Sheridan is home to iconic landmarks like the Sheridan Inn, the Mint Bar, Kings Saddlery, Black Tooth Brewing Co. and the Trail End State Historic Site, to name a few. Warm up with a Koltiska Winter Mule at Sheridan’s first distillery, or sip a pint of Black Tooth Oktoberfest as you unwind in the plush confines of one of our well-appointed historic hotels. Storefronts glow with holiday cheer each year, and offer up an inviting base camp for all our winter escapades. Winter is a wonderful time to visit, and we hope you’ll enjoy your stay.

Shawn Parker, executive director Sheridan Travel & Tourism

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From the mayor

It is with an open mind and open heart that I welcome everyone who visits Sheridan, Wyoming. Sheridan is an open, friendly and welcoming place to visit and live. In the past decade, Sheridan has been voted the No. 1 Western Town in America, the Top 25 Happiest Small Towns in America and Top 100 Small Towns in the U.S. by True West Magazine, Country Living and Livibility. Sheridan has won many awards from worldwide subscription magazines like National Geographic, Sunset Magazine, North American Hunter, Outside Magazine, SnoWest and more. Here in Sheridan we are very proud of these recognitions and we work daily to continue these great achievements. Sheridan is a community that works very hard to be diverse while we enhance our quality of life for all who visit and live here. Our economic and community diversity is growing, developing and proactive in assisting with quality of life for both businesses and people. We offer information and infrastructure to help grow businesses and attract employees with our daily activities. Sheridan is very welcoming to businesses when it comes to the bottom line for sustainability, growth and expenses to promote success and retainability throughout the business economies of the world. Sheridan as a community and a city works to help businesses grow, expand and

relocate to Sheridan. Our new developing North Interchange area is infrastructure ready for businesses to build their dream headquarters along with light manufacturing. There are businesses expanding and moving into this business friendly area. There is currently space available for professionals, research, grocery, hotels, housing and recreational businesses, that are welcome to join, grow and expand all that Sheridan offers. Sheridan’s housing is an ongoing project at all price points that we work on year round. We are currently working on reviewing and adjusting our last housing study completed in 2008. New homes are being built and workforce housing is continually being addressed to help our citizens as fast as our economy can provide. Sheridan values all its citizens from our children to our older adults. Our community has invested $200 million in infrastructure and amenities to enhance quality of life since 2007. Our artistic community enjoys a variety of venues such as the WYO Theater, The Brinton, SAGE Community Arts and our fantastic artisan programs at Sheridan College’s Whitney Center for the Arts. Our professional community, our sporting community and our outdoor recreation communities utilize facilities like the M&M’s Center, the YMCA, our polo fields and outdoor recreation and pathways with the Bighorn Mountains a short drive from town. We believe in our community and we welcome all who want to be a part of our city, community and Sheridan way of life. Sheridan has been working for a better tomorrow for the past 100 years. Come and be a part of Sheridan. All our best,

Roger Miller, mayor City of Sheridan

TALENTED

CONTRIBUTORS STEPHEN Woody KRISTEN Czaban Kristen Czaban has worked at The Sheridan Press since June 2008 and covered the gamut of beats before she became managing editor in 2012. She graduated from Northwestern University in 2008 and moved to Wyoming, seeking adventure in all things Western and wild. She enjoys hiking and backpacking trips in the Bighorns and has added the Solitude Trail to her bucket list. Czaban completed her MBA in June.

ONLINE AT WWW.THESHERIDANPRESS.COM AND WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Stephen Woody first began visiting Sheridan and the Bighorns in 1976. Over time, with children along for the ride and now with grandchildren, he’s visited mountain lakes and streams, city parks and most often, golf courses.

CHELSEA Coli Originally from upstate New York, Coli has been with The Press since October 2016 covering county government, business and outdoors. In 2014, she graduated with a master’s degree from Georgetown University. Coli loves to travel and has not only traveled in the U.S. and Caribbean but has also ventured to Belize, Singapore, Indonesia and Cambodia and lived in Sri Lanka for six months. She also likes any activity that gets her outside, like hiking, swimming or paddle boarding, but most of all she’s an avid runner and has been enjoying discovering the trails in the Bighorn Mountains.

ASHLEIGH Fox Ashleigh Fox started as the cops, courts and city government reporter for The Sheridan Press in October 2016. A 2015 graduate of Biola University, she constantly seeks ways to adventure. Fox loves forming relationships with people of differing backgrounds from her own.

RYAN Patterson Ryan Patterson joined the Sheridan Press in August 2017 as a sports and education reporter. He graduated in May 2017 with a journalism degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was an editor and reporter for the student newspaper. He was also an assistant in the Marquette O’Brien Fellowship, where he helped a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter with a story about infectious diseases and the yellow fever outbreak in Brazil. Patterson was raised in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and is an avid Packers fan. He also loves basketball, music, books, movies and Miller Light. 10

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TALENTED

DESTINATION

SHERIDAN VOLUME 6 NUMBER 4 PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2017 Destination Sheridan is a lifestyle and tourism magazine dedicated to serving the greater Sheridan area. Its circulation reach is into visitor centers, places of hospitality, motels, local businesses and other establishments in the greater northern Wyoming area, South Dakota, Montana and Colorado, and home delivery customers of The Sheridan Press. It is also available online at thesheridanpress.com and destinationsheridan.com. All photos in Destination Sheridan are by Justin Sheely or are file photos from The Sheridan Press archives unless otherwise noted. Copyright Sheridan Newspapers, Inc. All uncredited stories are from Sheridan Press staff reports.

CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTORS JUSTIN Sheely

MIKE Pruden

Justin Sheely joined The Sheridan Press in November 2012 as a photojournalist. He is married to Hannah Sheely, a talented journalist at the same publication. The Sheelys recently had a life-changing event when they welcomed their first child, Eliana, into their world in January. While raising an infant is an adventure in itself, they look forward to sharing many experiences with their little girl.

Mike Pruden moved to Wyoming by way of Indiana in 2014, trading skyscrapers for mountains after landing a job as sports editor at The Sheridan Press. The extent of his adventures typically result in chasing Titleists around the golf course, but he remains intrigued by Wyoming’s unique outdoor sporting culture that includes activities such as hiking and fly fishing.

ART DIRECTOR

Stephen Woody Publisher Patrick Cossel Marketing director Kristen Czaban Managing editor Jon Cates Art director Lainie Cathcart Graphic designer Alana Bratz Graphic designer Janea LaMeres, sales Lisa Marosok, sales Katie French, sales

JON Cates Jon Cates has worked in the Creative Services Department at The Sheridan Press since early 2010. He is an alumnus of Northern Michigan University. On any given evening most of the year, he can be found taking in a hockey game on TV.

Chad Riegler, operations Becky Martini, office manager Justin Sheely, photojournalist Mike Pruden, journalist Ashleigh Fox, journalist Chelsea Coli, journalist Hannah Sheely, journalist Ryan Patterson, journalist

ON THE COVER Kevin Barger uses ice axes and crampons to climb an ice formation during an ice climbing class at Post Creek Campground in Shell Canyon of the Bighorn Mountains. Photo by Justin Sheely 12

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HANNAH Sheely Hannah Sheely covered city, county and state government for The Sheridan Press from 2013-2015. She returned as a features reporter in October 2016, and in January 2017 she and her husband, Press photojournalist Justin Sheely, embarked on the adventure of parenting their daughter Eliana. A stay-at-home working mama, she keeps a burp rag as close as her pen and delights in watching Elly sleep beneath her “Adventure is Out There” nursery décor. She looks forward to everything being an adventure in Elly’s eyes and is grateful for the jogging stroller and baby backpack that make grown-up adventures possible, too.

PUT IT ON ICE Rock climbers take to different terrain in winter months by Mike Pruden

ABOVE: A student adds ice crampons to his boots during an ice climbing class at Post Creek Campground in Shell Canyon of the Bighorn Mountains. The group learned ice climbing techniques prior to going outside to climb ice formations in Shell Canyon. RIGHT: Kevin Barger puts crampons on his boot during the ice climbing class. The ice climbing class is a collaboration between Sheridan College’s Learn Outdoors program and the Department of Workforce and Community Education. Learn Outdoors is a community outdoor education program. 14

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EAC 1600 has nestled itself into the Northwest Community College District’s course catalog for years. While the course description only touches the surface of ice climbing — techniques, equipment, safety — it carries a much heavier meaning in the Bighorn Mountains. Ice climbing is alive and thriving in the area. The Northern Wyoming Community College District — which includes Sheridan College — offered 29 physical education classes for the 2017-18 school year. The list includes activities like yoga, dance classes and your standard weight-training courses. But the school has made an effort to break through the walls of the Bruce Hoffman Golden Dome. Less than a 30-mile commute from the Sheridan College campus to the base of the Bighorn Mountains, outdoor recreation has become an important asset in the college’s physical education offerings. The NWCCD’s purchase and

‘‘

Ice is just a fickle medium that changes day to day and hour to hour.

continued investment in its Spear-O Mountain Campus was the catalyst to pushing outdoor recreation and taking advantage of the Bighorns. Now, classes like canoeing, snowshoeing and fly fishing fill the gaps between the more common PE course offerings. Introduction to rock climbing and, for the winter months — long in these parts — ice climbing, raise as few eyebrows as any other course on the list. Sure, ice climbing requires students to have a healthy amount of physical fitness. “Students must possess a level of fitness necessary to hike up to 3 miles in mountainous terrain, while carrying a heavy pack,” the course description reads on the NWCCD website. Anyone who has hiked in the Bighorn Mountains can explain its difficulties at times. Throw in wintery conditions and a backpack full of crampons and ice picks, and you’re in for a real doozy. But Sheridan College offers the course for a reason, and not just because its another outdoor activity to add to its already extensive list. The Bighorn Mountains have become a hidden gym for winter climbers. Rock climbing is much more prevalent in the area, but adventure seekers continue to take advantage of ice-climbing nooks tucked away in the cliffs and valleys. Cody is just a three-hour drive from Sheridan, and while the 150mile trek over the mountains may seem like a long trip, the adventure could be worth the travel. Cody boasts some of the best ice climbing in the area and has become quite a destination for some of the world’s top climbers. As a gauge to how popular Cody

Trevor Bowman

”

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Ice climbing

has become as an ice-climbing destination, the town has hosted the annual Cody Ice Climbing Festival since 1998. The festival welcomes climbers of all skill levels, and like NWCCD’s classes, puts a heavy focus on safety and education to continue to expand the sport. Bozeman, Montana, less than four hours from Sheridan, has had an ice-climbing festival for more than 20 years. Another challenging but closer climbing spot is Shell Canyon, less than 100 miles from Sheridan on U.S. Highway 14 East. Shell Canyon is more of a quick stop — unlike the multi-day experience Cody could provide — but

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winter waterfalls create a number of steep challenges for climbers. Plenty of groups take advantage of ice climbing in the area as another natural recreational activity provided by the beauty of Mother Nature. But ice climbing’s uniqueness draws newcomers year in and year out. Curiosity sparks interest in adventure seekers. “Ice is just a fickle medium that changes day to day and hour to hour,” avid climber Trevor Bowman told The Sheridan Press last year. Ice climbing also relies almost solely on gear. Where regular rock climbing can be done with just some rope, carabiners and strong fingers

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and toes — or without ropes and carabiners if you’re a true madman — ice climbing requires crampons and picks, or you’re stuck on the ground staring up at a giant sheet of ice. But equipment can be found readily available because the destinations are a car-ride away. The growth of the sport and desire to seek adventure have expanded resources in the area as long-time climbers continue to push the limits. Outfitters like Jackson Hole Mountain Guides and San Juan Mountain Guides based out of Colorado make trips to the Bighorns and Cody because the opportunities are too good to pass up. The book “Winter Dance”

by Joe Josephson has been a popular resource for ice climbing in the southern Montana and northern Wyoming regions since its publication in 2004. Sheridan College has been in on the action for years, and the urge to discover new challenges continues to blossom as local parties expend any and all resources offered by the great outdoors. Businessman and author Harvey Mackay once said, “If you don’t climb the mountain, you can’t see the view.” The Bighorns provide an abundance of exceptional views, and more and more adventurers are climbing the mountains to soak them in. Even in the wintertime.

ABOVE: A climber ascends an ice formation at Post Creek Campground. LEFT: Sheridan Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tom Johannesmeyer and student Jenavieve Trevino take a break from their hike to admire the view.

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FRESH POWDER Snowmobiling adds adventure, revenue to Wyoming winters. by Kristen Czaban

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ABOVE: Tori Houston, left, and Dereck Martini, of Gillette, drive across the snow near Bear Lodge Resort on Highway 14A in the Bighorn Mountains. RIGHT: Jeremy Van Dyke, left, spots for Jeff Jacobsma of Iowa as they back a sled into a trailer at Bear Lodge Resort before heading home.

hile trails exist where no motorized vehicles are allowed, you don’t have to search far and wide to hear the buzz of snowmobiles in the Bighorn Mountains each winter. For many enthusiasts, the Bighorn Mountains are the closest mountain range offering high-quality snowmobile trails and off-trail powder. If you drive up U.S. Highway 14 after the snow has fallen at higher elevations, you’ll likely encounter trucks hauling trailers with the tracked vehicles up into the powder. “At the end of the day, folks come from all over,” said Domenic Bravo, the administrator for state parks and historic sites

for the Wyoming Department of State Parks & Cultural Resources. Residents of Minnesota and Wisconsin, especially, find their way to Wyoming for some fun on their sleds. The northern Bighorn Mountains offer approximately 220 miles of trails and have been rated in SnoWest magazine’s “Top 15.” The magazine’s website also gives the area high grades across the board in terms of off-trail riding, scenery, services and trail riding. As a whole, Wyoming has more than 2,000 miles of groomed trails for winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy. Lodges in the Bighorn Mountains thrive during the fall and winter months — first

for the hunting season, then for snowmobiling. Bear Lodge Resort, Elk View Inn, Meadowlark Lake Lodge, South Fork Lodge and Wyoming’s High Country Lodge in the Bighorns all offer snowmobile rentals and some even offer guided rides. Owners of the High Country Lodge said the sport is arguably the most commonly enjoyed sport during the winter months for the mountain-based business. Wyoming law requires all snowmobiles to have either a current Wyoming resident or nonresident user fee decal prominently displayed on the outside of each snowmobile. Each permit is $35 and may be purchased at one of the several permit selling agents located

across the state. In Sheridan County, those vendors include Arrowhead Lodge, Buckhorn Travel Plaza, Bear Lodge Resort, Clear Creek Stop, Hando’s Service Center, Peak Powersports, Rocky Mountain Discount Sports, Shipton’s, the Story Store, Valley Motor Honda and Walmart. A variety of businesses in surrounding counties also sell the decals. Valley Motor Honda topped the list of decals sold to residents in Sheridan County in the 2016-2017 season. The business sold 326 of the total 1,605 resident stickers sold in the North Bighorns region. The regional resident sales brought in more than $54,619 in revenue to the state. Out-of-state decals brought

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Snowmobiles

even more revenue. In the 2016-2017 season, 3,205 decals were sold, generating $109,135 in revenue for the North Bighorns region. Bear Lodge Resort sold a bulk of those decals â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 2,032 to be exact. The next highest seller in the region was the Corner Grocery in Dayton with 435 non-resident decals. This trail system in the northern Bighorns is maintained through cooperative efforts of the Wyoming Department of State Park & Cultural Resources-Division of State Parks & Historic Sites, the U.S. Forest Service and local snowmobile clubs. Bear Lodge Resort owner Rick

Young aids in that effort, which keeps him busy. His wife, Roberta, has said watching families enjoy the sport is a highlight of the winter months in the mountains, all of which goes with the territory. The couple also aids in search and rescue efforts and medical emergencies in the Bighorn Mountains. The thousands of miles of trails are typically groomed from mid-December through April 1, depending on snowfall and funding. So if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for fresh powder and a day on the trails, look no further than the Bighorn Mountains.

RIGHT: Brandon Fasnacht of Minnesota crosses a section of highway to get to the open range at Bear Lodge Resort on U.S. Highway 14A.

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At the end of the day, folks come from all over.

Domenic Bravo

”

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Snowmobiles

TRAIL TIPS Planning to hit the trails this winter? Check the Bighorn National Forest website or that of the Wyoming Department of State Park & Cultural Resources — Division of State Parks & Historic Sites for maps and decal vendors. Snowmobiling can be an exhilarating activity, but it also has inherent dangers. Here are some tips to keep you safe this winter.

Be a defensive driver — Be on the alert for potential dangers such as thin ice and open water, avalanche country, obstacles beneath the snow, trees and branches in the trails, wildlife and other obstacles. Don’t drink and ride — You must be alert and exercise caution. Don’t hinder your reaction time and ability to control your sled due to the effects of alcohol. Wear appropriate clothing — Layer your clothing and ensure you have extra layers in case you become stranded. Use layers that wick sweat away from your body as base layers and then add layers that will hold in the heat. Take wind chill into account when planning your wardrobe. Bring along a basic repair kit — Your kit should include basic parts like a spare belt, spark plugs, extra nuts and bolts sized for your sled, a tow rope, pry bar and duct tape. Of course, the knowledge of how to use all of those parts is also essential. Take a friend and tell others where you’re heading — Having company in the high country is smart and just more fun. By telling others where you’re heading and your plan for the day, you give people a place to start looking if you don’t return on time.

ABOVE: Tom Neises of South Dakota puts on his helmet prior to hitting the powder near Bear Lodge Resort. 22

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Bring personal safety equipment — A SPOT is a personal GPS messenger that you can preprogram with messages for loved ones and send an alert if you find yourself in trouble. It also provides emergency responders with a way to track your location in the case of an avalanche.

BIGHORN LODGES Small business owners with the best backyards by Kristen Czaban

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ABOVE: Bear Lodge Resort owners Roberta and Rick Young have owned the mountain-based business for decades. RIGHT: Arrowhead Lodge offers peace and quiet, but the isolation of mountain lodges isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t for everyone.

any small business owners know the feeling of always being on the job. Homeowners understand that homes require constant maintenance and upkeep. Owners of lodges in the Bighorn Mountains know both of those lifestyles better than most; they live at their businesses and their businesses are home. The lodges in the Bighorn Mountains operate under special use permits issued through the U.S. Forest Service. The business owners work closely

with the USFS on improvements they want to make, new buildings they want to construct or new activities they plan to offer. “There are definitely some hoops they have to jump through,” said Travis Fack, who administers those permits for the Bighorn National Forest. “But we’re all ensuring that nobody is doing anything to get people hurt.” Jared and Charlene Severson purchased Arrowhead Lodge in 2016 and have been working to make improvements to the lodge located off

Highway 14 west of Dayton. In purchasing the lodge, they encountered what many homeowners do — maintenance projects that had been neglected. The couple converted the establishment to smoke-free and have been working their way through other projects on the grounds. The draw of the outdoors along with owning and operating their own business brought the Seversons to the Bighorn Mountains. They love the surrounding communities, the schools and the overwhelming positivity of

those who live in the area. “Have you seen our backyard?” Jared Severson said of the perks of owning and operating a lodge. “Where could you find a better backyard?” His wife noted the wide variety of people who walk through the lodge’s doors. They’ve had hunters and families from the region, across the country and even from overseas. Plus, they get to spend each day with their two children, ages 12 and 15. While the Seversons are fairly new to the mountain

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Have you seen our backyard? Where could you find a better backyard?

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Jared Severson

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”

lodge industry, Rick and Roberta Young have owned and operated Bear Lodge Resort since 1993 and Elk View Inn since 2010. The Youngs both grew up in New York. After high school, Rick Young went into the Air Force and his wife attended nursing school. He was stationed in Cheyenne in the 1970s and the couple always talked about coming back to Wyoming. “After 20 years of the Air Force and traveling, we started looking for a place when we got closer to his retirement,” Ro-

berta Young said. “Some people we knew had seen that Bear Lodge was advertised for sale in a snowmobile magazine.” The rest, as they say, is history. Young, like the Seversons, noted that watching guests enjoy the outdoors tops her list of why the job appeals to her. “The Bighorns are still being discovered,” she said, commenting on the looks of awe many visitors to the area display. “So many people don’t know what’s up here.” Owning a mountain lodge isn’t all conversa-

tions with guests, fishing and snowmobiling, though. It’s hard work. Maintenance, of course, seems unending. Plus, access to things like fuel and supplies isn’t as simple as a 5-minute drive to the grocery store. Recruitment and retention of employees can also prove difficult. While many romanticize the remoteness and idyllic setting, it isn’t for everyone. While the Seversons said they’ve had luck hanging onto employees they understand that isn’t common in the industry.

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Bighorn lodges

“Our goal is to have longterm, year-round employees, but the type of people who apply usually want to travel and experience other places,” Young said. “So there is a constant recruiting, checking of references and retraining.” In addition, she said, most people don’t think the isolation will bother them, but being away from a town with things like big-box stores and a movie theater can be more

of a challenge than many expect. Plus, Internet connectivity can be spotty. With so many people attached to their smartphones, being away from that can feel even more isolating than the vast open spaces in the Bighorns. Jared Severson said while Arrowhead Lodge has satellite internet enabling them to communicate with friends and family, their children may not

be as connected as their peers. Despite the fact that the challenges of homeownership and business ownership get tied into one, maintenance-required package, neither the Youngs nor the Seversons indicated they’d like to live any differently. In fact, while Bear Lodge is currently listed for sale, it’s not because the Youngs want to move away from the Bighorns. In fact, they plan to

move over to Elk View Inn, which while smaller than Bear Lodge, would still require time and attention. But, you can’t beat those views.

ABOVE: Business owners Charlene and Jared Severson bought Arrowhead Lodge in 2016.

LOOKING FOR MORE? WWW.BEARLODGERESORT.COM WWW.ARROWHEADLODGEWYOMING.COM WWW.LODGESOFTHEBIGHORNS.COM WWW.WYHIGHCOUNTRY.COM 28

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COZY UP Forest Service cabin rentals offer nearby getaways all year long

by Hannah Sheely

ABOVE: The stars shine above the Muddy Guard Cabin in the Bighorn National Forest off U.S. Highway 16 west of Buffalo. The Bighorn National Forest Service offers cabins for rent throughout the year. WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

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As a mom with the kids, I love that I can bring food and cook hot meals right there, but it’s a cabin and you get all of the wilderness and the flowers.

Sarah Ruybal

kaleidoscope m e a d o w shimmers with flowers in the spring, swelling like a wave at the cabin’s doorstep. Behind that wave rolls another covered with golden trees in the fall. In the winter, all is white, a snowy hush that invites adventures outdoors and snuggly pursuits indoors. Muddy Guard cabin, offered for rent by the Bighorn National Forest, is just 24 miles west of Buffalo but feels worlds away no matter the season. Nationwide, the Forest Service offers hundreds of cabins for rent — usually cheap. The Bighorn National Forest has three — two cabins and a fire lookout — available for public use. Muddy Guard and Pole Creek cabins can be rented year-round while

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Sheep Mountain Lookout is open in summer months. Sheridan residents Jason and Sarah Ruybal and their daughters Jaelyn and Elliana have stayed at Muddy Guard about 10 times. They go in the spring to enjoy the wildflowers and in the fall as a last getaway before school. They’ve braved a winter outing, too, pushing the beds closer to the fire to stay warm and building memories blanketed in snow. “It’s rustic but comfortable,” Jason Ruybal said. “It’s that niche between ‘I’ve got little kids; I don’t want to backpack 20 miles, but I still want to get out.’” Elliana, 6, was a baby on her first stay and now enjoys playing in the flowery field out front and throwing a Frisbee in the nearby meadow. “The girls always swim in

ABOVE: Elliana Ruybal, 6, enjoys hiking near Circle Park in the Bighorn Mountains during a recent stay with her family at Muddy Guard cabin in the Bighorn National Forest. The Forest Service offers hundreds of cabins for rent around the nation. The Bighorn National Forest has three available: Muddy Guard and Pole Creek cabins can be rented year-round, while Sheep Mountain Lookout is open in summer months. LEFT: Jaelyn Ruybal, 7, shows off a fish she caught while her family spent a few days at Muddy Guard cabin this fall. 32

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the creek. They call it the Wild Woman Club,” Jason Ruybal said, adding with pride that his daughters caught their first fish while at the cabin. Jason Ruybal, who works as an engineering staff officer for the Bighorn National Forest, appreciates the abundant recreation so near to the lodging — Crazy Woman Canyon and Circle Park for hikes and fishing, Tie Hack Reservoir for boating, old teepee rings to explore not 100 yards from the cabin. For Sarah Ruybal, Forest Service cabins — the family has stayed in several around the region — offer a fun getaway without leaving the comforts of home too far behind. “As a mom with the kids, I love that I can bring food and cook hot meals right there, but it’s a cabin and you get all of the wil-

derness and the flowers,” Sarah Ruybal said. Breakfast casseroles, stews, spaghetti, chicken, mashed potatoes and hot cider fill tummies made hungry by sunshine, laughter and play. One of the cabin journals — which are entertaining reads over a cup of coffee in the morning — featured a photo of two live lobsters that became a gourmet dinner for one couple ringing in the New Year at the cabin, Sarah Ruybal said. Muddy Guard has electricity but no running water. It offers a kitchen with stove, sink, counter and table, a dining area, a living area by the woodstove and two bedrooms, one with a double bed and one with two sets of bunk beds. Brian Boden, a district recreation staff member for

ABOVE: Steam from a coffee cup rises one sunny morning in Muddy Guard Cabin in the Bighorn National Forest off U.S. Highway 16 west of Buffalo.

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Mountain cabins the Bighorn National Forest in Buffalo, said Muddy Guard was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and used as a ranger station. It’s been available for rent for more than 10 years. Pole Creek cabin, a smaller, more rustic lodging located in the Pole Creek Nordic Ski Area west of Buffalo, has been available for rent since 2014. It does not have electricity, but its out-the-door access to 11 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails makes it a desirous winter destination, Boden said. In the winter, access to both Muddy Guard and Pole Creek cabins is by snowmobile, cross-country skis or snowshoes. Pole Creek cabin, approximately 14-by-16 feet in size, was half that square footage when it was built in the mid1950s by the E-La-Ka-Wee Boy Scout Troup and used for

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30 years as a scout camp. In the ‘80s, the cabin became a warming hut maintained by a snowmobile club. By the time Boden joined the Bighorn National Forest staff in 2008, it had fallen into disrepair. For five years, Boden and a host of volunteers used what funds were available to expand and refurbish the cabin. After a lengthy process to get Forest Service cabin rentals approved by Congress, Pole Creek and Sheep Mountain were brought online in 2014. The funds from cabin rentals go directly back to the district to fund maintenance of the cabins and, hopefully, enable more structures to be made available for public use. “What this opportunity has given us is a way to fund repairs on all these buildings, as well as a really cool opportunity for people to get into the woods at an affordable rate,” Boden said.

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BOOK AHEAD Year-round occupancy rates for Pole Creek and Muddy Guard cabins are over 50 percent, with summer usage being much higher. Sheep Mountain Lookout had 83 percent occupancy in summer 2016. What that means is it’s important to plan ahead and book a stay months in advance. Visit recreation.gov to book the three cabins in the Bighorns — or any available cabin around the nation. Reservations can be made six months in advance.

BELOW: A campfire burns outside Muddy Guard Cabin in the Bighorn National Forest off U.S. Highway 16 west of Buffalo.

TAKING AIM Get the game, then the work begins. by Ryan Patterson

ABOVE: Andy Sutphin scans the treeline near Big Horn.

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ow hunting is an inherently lethal activity, if done correctly. For local bowhunters, though, it is not the be-all, end-all. “I’ve always said hunting for me is not about taking an animal,” Peter Solin said. “It’s an opportunity for me to get out and enjoy something I like. If I get meat for the freezer at the end of the day, that’s just an added bonus.” Solin started bowhunting around age 15, and has been doing it for about 10 years. He said he bowhunts three or four weekends in Wyoming, and usually a few times when he travels. Solin said hunting relaxes him. It provides an escape from reality and is an opportunity to get out and soulsearch. Andy Sutphin agreed. He was introduced to hunting by a friend shortly after high school. He now hunts a few days in September, and about 20 days in both October and November.

Bud Stewart, public information specialist for the Sheridan regional office for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, said bowhunting has become increasingly popular in the last 20 years or so. “With new bow equipment, new technology, I think a lot more folks have started bowhunting,” he said. Stewart said hunting licenses for deer, elk and antelope are the most popular. He also said the fact that Wyoming allows crossbow hunting makes it a little easier for more people to hunt. While many bowhunters say they enjoy the quiet and remoteness of the sport, the idea of bow hunting inducing calm and giving hunters a chance to unwind can seem counterintuitive. A multiple-day trip involves significant packing and preparation, including food, water, camping sup-

plies, camouflage outfits, multiple pairs of boots, a set of binoculars, a rangefinder, GPS system and various hunting scents. “Including my bow and everything, I’m probably looking at 75 to 80 pounds,” Solin said. Despite rigorous planning, there is always a bit of luck involved, and most of the time the bowhunters leave empty-handed. To accurately shoot a bow at an animal, Solin and Sutphin all said 30 to 40 yards is the farthest distance away they can be. “It’s a lot of time and dedication,” Solin said. Some seasons, “you might be in a situation where you could potentially shoot something with a bow once or twice. That’s if you’re really putting your time in.” After mainly rifle hunting, Colter Kinner picked up an interest in bowhunting a little more than three years ago. His dad doesn’t

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Elk hunting is my soul. There’s just something special about being that close to elk and hearing them.

Colter Kinner

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Bow hunting

ABOVE: A hunter draws his compound bow.

LEFT: Andy Sutphin pulls up his compound bow from his tree platform near Big Horn.

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bow hunt, but he does bugle to get elk close for Kinner, who learned to hunt and continues to hunt with family. “Elk hunting is my soul,” Kinner said. “There’s just something special about being that close to elk and hearing them.” For safety reasons, Kinner, Sutphin and Solin all try to go with at least one other person when bowhunting elk in the mountains, but sometimes go alone when hunting deer. None of them have had any serious mishaps, but there have been a few frightening encounters. Sutphin was accompanying a friend on a hunting trip near Great Falls, Montana, last year, when they encountered an

unexpected visitor. “A black bear charged in and came probably about 10 yards away,” Sutphin said. “Fortunately, it took off once it saw it was us, but that was intimidating.” Kinner recalls hearing a mountain lion scream during an elk hunt in the dark. “It was probably the most petrifying experience of my entire life,” he said. However, Kinner, Solin and Sutphin all said they appreciated the labor and possibility of the unknown involved with the sport. “If elk hunting was easy, I wouldn’t be interested in it,” Kinner said. “It’s the challenge that I really thrive on.” It is a lengthy process

to take an animal from the woods to a plate. “After you make the kill, that’s when all the work begins,” Sutphin said. The process involves locating the kill, field-dressing it, skinning it if necessary, hauling it back to the vehicle through uneven terrain, hanging it to dry if need be, then cutting, processing and packing the meat. “It’s not for the weak,” Kinner said. “You’re climbing straight up a mountain ... If you’re lucky enough to get something, you’re taking hundreds and hundreds of pounds out miles. And so it takes a lot of commitment, and, physically, it’s really demanding.”

ABOVE: A hunter carries his compound bow near Big Horn.

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GENERATIONAL FUN

Loved ones connect through hunting by Ashleigh Fox 40

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amilies in Wyoming have long continued the tradition of hunting throughout generations. Hunting not only serves as a time for family to come together to enjoy a popular sport, but also as a livelihood and food source. “It’s a sport for one, but more than that it’s something that we can do together as a family,” Greg Hansen said. Hansen grew up hunting with his grandfather, who was a gunsmith, and passed down the tradition of hunting to his five children and grandchildren. Each aspect of the sport has made its way from Hansen to the next generations. “When I was a kid we never bought beef; we were raised on deer and antelope and elk and we always had wild game,” Hansen said. “Beyond that, I think hunting, being a true sportsman, you learn a lot about respecting the land and the wildlife. I think it teaches good morals. (I cherish) the time spent together and the memories.” Three generations hunting together is a common sight in the West, with grandparents teaching grandchildren everything that comes after passing a hunters safety course. “Ever since starting school, every year we’d take two weeks off (for a family hunting trip),” said Jon

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Miles of Ranchester. “It passed down from there. It’s just our life. That’s why you live here is to hunt. If we wanted to make money, we’d go somewhere else.” The Miles family got an early start in hunting, when Jon and his wife, Yodi, filled a moose tag on their honeymoon. Despite Yodi Miles falling ill, she filled her moose tag following their wedding day and her husband skinned it in the frigid cold. While dressing the animal, he sliced off a piece of his finger, but that did not stop him from finishing the job. “He doesn’t stop for anything” the couple’s daughter, Mandy Warren said. It is how they feed the family. Warren said when the time comes, her family pulls the children out of school the same way she was pulled out of school. “It’s more important for me to take them out to the field than it is for them to be in school because what we learn out in the field we don’t learn in school,” Warren said. “That’s just the way of life.” Even with busy schedules and missed sports practices, both Warren and her sister, Amber Miles, find benefit in their children gaining practical experiences outside of a classroom. “They’re learning to be a family; they’re learning to respect the outdoors and

ABOVE: Jon and Yodi Miles spent their honeymoon hunting for moose and have connected through hunting ever since. COURTESY PHOTO | MANDY WARREN

LEFT: The Deromedi family hunts together every season, passing down traditions through the generations. Pictured in back, from left are Tracey Deromedi, Rocky Deromedi and Tim Deromedi. In front are Tayler Drussel, Daqri Drussel and Traven Free. PHOTO BY ASHLEIGH FOX | THE SHERIDAN PRESS

When I was a kid we never bought beef; we were raised on deer and antelope and elk and we always had wild game. Beyond that, I think hunting, being a true sportsman, you learn a lot about respecting the land and the wildlife. I think it teaches good morals. (I cherish) the time spent together and the memories.

Greg Hansen WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Generational fun the wildlife,” Miles said. Some families don’t benefit from the blessing of having extended time for hunting trips, but still make hunting together a priority. Tracey Deromedi — an avid hunter, wife and mother to three young children — said she and her husband both work full time and the children have school and activities. They don’t get a whole lot of family time. The time spent when it can squeeze in a hunting trip sustains the family during times when togetherness is missed at the dinner table. “For us to go out as a family, it’s more of a bonding experience and it’s

a lesson for the kids on what to do out in the field and how they’re supposed to act,” Deromedi said. Deromedi’s husband, Tim, learned to hunt from his father and grandfather. His grandfather used hunting strictly to support the family, while other family members hunted for sport. The Deromedi family still utilizes hunting as a means of providing the family’s food, but also to teach the three young children the ways of past generations. While hunting with family provides opportunities for bonding and the making of memories, education and patience must also be part of the trips.

BELOW: Fall colors at Circle Park west of Buffalo. COURTESY PHOTO | ROD ADAMS

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“It can be fun, but it can also be frustrating because they are little and they’re little balls of energy,” Deromedi said. “The pride in their faces when we actually get something and they’re involved in it, it’s amazing.” The sport will continue to be passed from generation to generation, continuing Sheridan County’s hunting heritage and encompassing a passion for sport, livelihood, education and family. “It’s a sport that’s very respectable,” Rocky Deromedi said. “(Tim) and I and Tracey, we were raised as proper adults on how to respect the animals. The only way these little ones can learn is by what we do.”

KNOW THE RULES Planning a hunt this year? Avoid these common violations... From the Wyoming Game and Fish Department

Most hunters follow hunting laws and regulations. Occasionally, however, some folks inadvertently or intentionally run afoul of the law. Wyoming Game and Fish Department officials remind hunters to carefully read hunting laws and regulations. They are designed to promote safety and conservation of wildlife. The following is a listing of five common violations that crop up every hunting season:

FAILURE TO TAG

Every big game, trophy game and wild turkey license has a carcass coupon attached. Each license has the tagging instructions printed on the coupon. There are four steps to properly tag big game, trophy game or wild turkey. Detach the carcass coupon from the license. Date the carcass coupon by cutting out the entire date and month of the kill. Sign the carcass coupon (but not before harvest). Attach the coupon to the carcass before leaving the site of the kill. The coupon may be removed during transportation to prevent its loss, but it must be in possession of the person accompanying the carcass.

SHOOTING FROM A VEHICLE

It is illegal to take any game species from a motorized vehicle. This includes all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles. Hunters possessing a handicapped hunter permit issued by Wyoming are exempt from this requirement.

SHOOTING FROM A PUBLIC ROAD

It is illegal to shoot a firearm or bow from, across or along a public road. A public road is any road that is open to vehicular traffic to the public. The road surface, the area between fences on a fenced public road or highway and the area 30 feet perpendicular to the road surface on unfenced roads is considered the public road. Twotrack trails on public land are not considered public roads for this purpose.

FAILURE TO RETAIN EVIDENCE OF SEX

Many Wyoming hunting licenses require the taking of a specific sex of animal. There are also season dates in some hunt areas when only a specific sex of animal can be taken. To satisfy the proof of sex requirement the regulation states, “in areas where the taking of any big game animal is restricted to a specific sex of animal, either the visible external sex organs, head or antlers shall accompany the animal as a whole or edible portion thereof.”

TRESPASS

It is illegal to enter private land to hunt, fish or trap without permission from the landowner or person in charge of the property. The hunting license should be signed by the landowner/agent or the hunter should have other legitimate proof of permission. It is the hunter’s responsibility to know where they are.

Hunting regulations can be obtained from WGFD offices or license-selling agents. Hunters can see the Wyoming Game and Fish Department website for all hunting and fishing online: http://wgfd.wyo.gov. WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

COURTESY PHOTO | TIM DOOLIN

PATIENCE, LUCK AND A LITTLE SKILL Wildlife photography a rewarding winter pursuit by Hannah Sheely

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hen Tim Doolin fixes his 800mm telephoto lens on a bugling elk or a sage grouse puffed and strutting to win the girl, the photo is not really the main thing. If patience, luck and skill pay off with a trophy image, great. If not, the privilege of watching that animal in its element, of witnessing part of its story, is more than enough. Fellow wildlife photographer Rod Adams agrees. He has taken dozens of photos in his mind when the action happened too quickly or too far away for him to capture with the click of shutter. There were those two cow elk that stood on hind legs and jabbed each other, circling a puddle as if it were a boxing ring; then there was that time he watched a Great Blue Heron swoop and swallow a swallow whole. He’s watched meadowlarks wing and zing in a territorial dispute and will never forget the time he saw a moose rise out of Trigger Lake in the Bighorn Mountains, showers sliding over coarse fur like water over cliff’s edge. “Sometimes it’s too far away, but it’s so memorable to watch,” Adams said. For Doolin and Adams, watching wildlife has become a passion pursued early morning and late evening in spring, summer, fall and winter.

GEARING UP AND GETTING OUT Doolin, an eighth-grade English teacher who photographs wildlife in his spare time and is regularly featured in Wyoming Wildlife Magazine, began hunting as a kid in Tacoma, Washington, a place not known for its animal life. “I was like a kid in a candy store when we came to Wyoming in 1991,” Doolin said. “For me, I stepped into the Garden of Eden and there was wildlife everywhere.” Doolin was 19 when he came to the Cowboy State.

He bought a camera with a small zoom lens and began to hunt with shutter button instead of trigger. The more wildlife he saw, the more he wanted to see. He bought equipment that could get him closer, currently topping out with the 800mm lens and a teleconverter — the equivalent of a 30-power optic. Doolin began to spend hours upon hours waiting, watching and sometimes shooting. His personal faith made each outing a celebra-

tion of God’s creation. “It is my renewal in many ways,” Doolin said. Adams bought a camera while serving in Vietnam — where he captured shots of fishing boats and battleships as he flew overhead. When he returned to Sheridan, he went backpacking with his uncle to Shamrock Lake in the Bighorn Mountains. “That was the first time I got to see the elk running and playing on the snow drift, laying in the drifts, playing on the drifts. It was

pretty amazing,” Adams said. When Adams, his wife and children would go camping, he’d take his camera. Soon, he began making early morning excursions just to watch wildlife and snatch a few photos. “You never know what you’re going to see. Every time has some sort of surprise it seems like. You won’t necessarily get a picture. That’s what keeps you doing it, just the sheer enjoyment of something different.”

COURTESY PHOTO | TIM DOOLIN

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Wildlife photography

SEEING THE STORY BEYOND THE LENS A photograph of an elk, a beaver, a wolf, a hummingbird shows but one moment in that animal’s life, a dive beneath icy waters, a frozen nanosecond glimpse of wings beating 80 times per second. “Patience is the big thing. You want to be patient where you can sit and watch,” Adams said. “Luck is extremely important, to be there at the right time. And a little bit of skill.” Beyond that moment, that payoff for patience, luck and skill, is a life not unlike our own. “I find it fascinating, the interactions, the personalities, the struggles,” Doolin said. In human and animal life, there is always a pecking order. There are injuries, victories, toil and play. Doolin has often wondered about the story behind the

COURTESY PHOTO | TIM DOOLIN

COURTESY PHOTO | ROD ADAMS

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scars. That elk with the scratch on its side, did it escape a mountain lion? Are those puncture wounds on that deer from a fight for the girl? “There is a story in the lines on their faces, the water dripping off antlers and the mud caked to their side,” Doolin said. Animals teach us about resilience and problem-solving when there is no logical answer. Sometimes Doolin must do what he just watched an animal do: walk another 100 yards through 3 feet of snow and hope there is something over the next ridge. If there’s not, if the adventure doesn’t produce a trophy photo, that’s OK. The success in the outing is the enjoyment of the beauty, the silence and the chance to see the story beyond the lens.

ON THE LOOKOUT Interested in getting to know the wildlife in wild Wyoming? Bud Stewart, public information specialist with the Wyoming Game and Fish Sheridan Region, and wildlife photographers Tim Doolin and Rod Adams offer these tips: • Get out there! • Don’t be disappointed if you don’t see animals on your first several outings; it takes time to learn where and when to go. • Go in the “corners” of the day, early morning and evening, as this is when animals are most active. • Ask for help. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department and U.S. Forest Service are good resources for information. • Dress warm and carry plenty of food and water on winter excursions. • Be respectful of private land and ask permission before entering to view wildlife. County roads offer a good, safe place from which to view. • Watch from a distance. Winter is tough enough for animals and they don’t need additional stress. Use binoculars for a good view without disturbing the animals. • Don’t worry about having the best equipment. A point and shoot camera with a zoom lens is a good place to start. • Learn where animals congregate in the winter for regular opportunities to watch them. • Be patient.

COURTESY PHOTO | TIM DOOLIN COURTESY PHOTO | ROD ADAMS

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WYOMING DAY TRIPS by Chelsea Coli

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LEFT: The Bighorn Mountains loom over Swaim Road near Sheridan.

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must-see winter destinations

hile Sheridan has something for everyone — outdoor recreation, shopping and historical site tours — its position off Interstate 90 and central location make it easy for locals and tourists to explore different areas of the state in no time. Every part of Wyoming has its own unique beauty and history that deserves exploration, and Sheridan can be used as a home base for these day and weekend road trips. So buckle up, turn up the dial and enjoy Wyoming’s open roads, and when you return, you can tell your friends all about it over a whiskey at The Mint Bar.

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BUFFALO MEADOWLARK SKI LODGE HEART MOUNTAIN INTERPRETIVE CENTER KEYHOLE STATE PARK THERMOPOLIS CODY

I-90

BUFFALO 36.8 MILES VIA I-90 / 36 MINUTES

ust over a half hour away from Sheridan is the city of Buffalo. Founded in 1879, Buffalo sits at the base of the Bighorn Mountains and has its own historic Main Street, where personalities such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, “Buffalo Bill” Cody, Calamity Jane and Teddy Roosevelt have walked. One of Main Street’s famous locations is the Occidental Hotel, one of the oldest operating hotels in Wyoming. “It’s like stepping back in time to go in there,” Buffalo Chamber of Commerce director of marketing and programs Jennifer

McCormick said. The hotel was restored with period design and decorations and its wallpaper was reproduced in England to look like the original. The hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places and offers tours to the public. If you pass through on a Thursday, you can catch the weekly bluegrass jam session in the bar. Buffalo is also home to the Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum, which has been part of the community since 1900 when it was originally a drugstore. The museum is deceivingly large, with exhibits on everything from the Bozeman Trail to Bomber Mountain.

ABOVE: The Occidental Hotel lobby. COURTESY PHOTO | OCCIDENTAL HOTEL

LEFT: The Jim Gatchell Memorial Museum features exhibits on everything from the Bozeman Trail to Bomber Mountain.

COURTESY PHOTO | BUFFALO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ON THE WAY: Take a tour of Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site and learn about the Fetterman Massacre and Wagon Box Fight.

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ROAD TRIP TIPS

I-90 US 16

Bring a map – some areas don’t have enough service for GPS to work. Keep winter clothes and a blanket in the car in case of emergencies. Keep the gas tank full. Don’t take a route that looks unsafe or too snow-packed, even if your GPS tells you to take it. Check for road closures before you leave. Watch for wildlife when driving through the mountains, or anywhere really. Use hazard lights if traveling far below the speed limit on the highway. ABOVE: Meadowlark Ski Lodge is the only ski area on the south side of U.S. Highway 16. COURTESY PHOTO

MEADOWLARK SKI LODGE

79.8 MILES VIA I-90 AND US 16 / 1 HOUR, 25 MINUTES

kiers and snowboarders can be flying down the slopes in less than two hours. Meadowlark Ski Lodge is the only ski resort on the south side of U.S. Highway 16 in the Bighorn Mountains. The ski area offers skiing Fridays through Sundays as soon as weather allows, with the exception of the week between Christmas and New Year’s, when the lodge has extended hours. The 300-acre ski area has two lifts and 14 runs that are split between beginner, intermediate and

ON THE WAY:

advanced trails. It’s located at an elevation of 8,500 feet with the top of the lifts sitting at 9,500 feet. The lodge offers a restaurant with homemade food and snacks and a lounge with full-service bar and WiFi, making it a destination for skiers and non-skiers alike. “We’re a little smaller which makes us great because lines aren’t really long,” Meadowlark manager Shawn Smith said. “People know each other and you can just come up and have a good time all day long.”

Meadowlark is located along the 47-mile Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway on U.S. Highway 16. Enjoy the landscape and wildlife before and after you ski.

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US 14

HEART MOUNTAIN INTERPRETIVE CENTER

155 MILES VIA US 14 / 2 HOURS, 59 MINUTES

uring its threey e a r existence, Heart Mountain Relocation Center imprisoned more than 14,000 Japanese and Japanese Americans. The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center is set up on a timeline that tells the story through the eyes of those who were confined at the site during World War II. Exhibits include pre-war and pre-confinement histories that give context to why relocation centers were made — context that digs deeper than the

attack on Pearl Harbor and includes underlying laws, prejudices and attitudes already in place in the country during that time. The site also includes a quarter-mile paved, flat walking trail with interpretive panels that give visitors a sense of where barracks and community centers were located. Additionally, visitors can drive to and tour the outside of the remaining structures, which were originally part of the hospital complex. Center communications and design manager Kate Wilson said

the museum receives school groups starting around third grade, and encourages all ages to visit. Many are surprised that these events happenned in the U.S., but the center helps visitors gain an understanding of why they happened. Being on site adds to the experience. “It’s helpful for people to get a sense, especially those who aren’t from Wyoming, to get a sense of the isolation, the extreme weather,” Wilson said. “And also the beauty and kind of foreignness for a lot of people.”

ON THE WAY: Stop in Powell for a bite to eat. On average the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center takes about an hour and a half to go through with no cafeteria or eateries nearby.

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WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

I-90

KEYHOLE STATE PARK

150.5 MILES VIA I-90 / 2 HOURS, 9 MINUTES

hose who live for ice fishing can be in their personal winter fishing heaven in about two hours. Located on the edge of the Black Hills, the park is the only Northern pike fishery in the state of Wyoming, offering some of the best ice fishing in the state.

Additionally, the park has 14,000 acres of frozen lake to cross-country ski, snowmobile, snowshoe or ice skate. For those who might want to spend a night, the park offers cabins with beds and a treehouse that sleeps five, complete with beds and bedding.

BEFORE YOU GO: Rent your winter gear from The Sports Stop or Back Country Bike and Mountain Works in Sheridan.

SONGS FOR WYOMING ROAD TRIPPIN’ Postcard Town by The Two Tracks Western Skies by Chris LeDoux Song of Wyoming by John Denver Forever West by Dave Munsick Spirit Moves by Taylor Scott Band Big Horn Mountain by Jalan Crossland Runnin’ Down a Dream by Tom Petty I Can Still Make Cheyenne by George Strait Fortunate Son by Creedence Clearwater Revival Valley of the Snake by Canyon Kids

COURTESY PHOTOS | KEYHOLE STATE PARK

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US 16

THERMOPOLIS

160 MILES VIA US-16 / 2 HOURS, 52 MINUTES

ounded in 1897, the town of Thermopolis draws visitors in with its location at the southernmost point of the Big Horn Basin and tourist attractions such as the mineral hot springs and dinosaur museum. Hot Springs State Park offers a free bath house with 104-degree waters that historically attracted dinosaurs, prehistoric migratory people, Native American tribes and Western settlers. The park also has a number of indoor and outdoor hot water pools, slides and steam caves. Thermopolis is also home to the world-class Wyoming Dinosaur Center, a nonprofit that provides hands-on geologic and paleontological ex-

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periences through a museum, dig sites and preparation laboratory. The museum boasts more than 30 mounted skeletons including the only Archaeopteryx, a genus of bird-like dinosaurs, outside of Europe, a Supersaurus named Jimbo, which is one of the largest dinosaurs ever mounted and a 35-foot T-Rex named Stan. For those who want to experience Wyoming through their taste buds, the One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company is located in downtown Thermopolis and the Wyoming Whiskey distillery is located about 12 miles outside of Thermopolis in the town of Kirby. Both establishments offer tours of their facilities where visitors can learn about the brewing and distilling processes.

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BEFORE YOU GO:

Check out Sheridanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local breweries, Black Tooth Brewing Company and Luminous Brewhouse and its local distillery Koltiska Distillery.

ABOVE: The hot springs in Thermopolis. COURTESY PHOTO | THERMOPOLIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BELOW: Located just outside of Thermopolis is the Wyoming Whiskey distillery. Visitors can tour the facility and learn about the distilling process. COURTESY PHOTO | WYOMING WHISKEY

BEFORE YOU GO:

Try ice climbing closer to home in Shell Canyon and take a tour of the Historic Sheridan Inn.

ABOVE: Just outside Cody is world-renowned ice climbing with the largest concentration of frozen waterfalls in the lower 48 states. BELOW: The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is open five days a week during the winter and celebrates Cody’s founding history. COURTESY PHOTOS | CODY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

US 14

CODY

148 MILES VIA US 14 / 2 HOURS, 53 MINUTES

hile there are opportunities for ice climbing closer to Sheridan, about three hours away in Cody is the mecca of the daring winter sport. Located in South Fork, about 25 minutes from Cody, is world-renowned ice climbing with the highest concentration of frozen waterfalls in the lower 48 states. The climbs feature long approaches and abundant elevation gain, making it a place for experienced climbers. In February, Cody holds its annual Cody Ice Festival, which features instruction classes,

events and guest speakers. The event caters to both novice and expert climbers. Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody founded the city of Cody in the mid 1890s. Today, Cody celebrates its history with the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which is open five days a week during winter. The city is also home to the historic Irma Hotel. Built by Buffalo Bill and named after his daughter, the hotel is on the National Registry of Historic Places. Visiting the hotel in the down season allows guests to explore at their own pace.

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

THE GREAT

OUTDOORS

ICE FISHING D

id you hear the one about Sven and Ole and their ice fishing trip in Canada? After a whole week, they returned with only one fish. “The vay I figure it, dat fish cost us $900,” Sven said. “Vell,” said Ole, “at dat price it’s a good ting ve didn’t catch any more!” Jokes aside, ice fishing is a widely enjoyed winter activity around Sheridan and the Bighorn Mountains with several lakes and reservoirs available for the sport. Popular spots include Sibley Lake off U.S. Highway 14 west of Dayton and Lake DeSmet off Interstate 90 north of Buffalo, accessed from exits 44, 47

and 51. Right in Sheridan, fishers find luck in Sam Mavrakis Pond, which is stocked yearround. Just 10 miles north of Sheridan, anglers drop their lines into Kleenburn Pond at Kleenburn Recreation Area, often pulling out rainbow trout stocked by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Those willing to drive a little further look to Shell Reservoir Camping Area, according to the Bighorn National Forest website, which houses a population of brook trout naturally maintained by reproduction. Tongue River Reservoir over the border in Montana is often frequented by locals, as is Healy Reservoir, 6 miles east of Buffalo on U.S. Highway 16.

FISH SAFE, FISH SMART Wherever your ice fishing adventures take you, remember these pointers from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department:

ABOVE: Foot tracks lead to an old ice fishing hole during the sunrise over Sam Mavrakis Pond in Sheridan. 60

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• Ice should be at least 4 inches thick. • Ice thickness should be checked every 100-150 feet. • Avoid ice fishing on rivers as conditions change quickly due to moving water beneath the surface. • Clear ice is stronger than white or cloudy ice. If ice is cloudy, double the recommended thickness.

• Avoid driving ATVs or other vehicles on the ice. • Always fish with a friend. • Always carry a flotation device and ice pick in case you fall in. • Pack extra clothes and hot liquids to help prevent hypothermia after an accident. • Don’t forget your fishing license and stamp.

SLEDDING O

n almost any given day in the winter, squeals of laughter can be heard behind icy sprays of snow as young and not-soyoung alike scream down Linden Hill near downtown Sheridan.

ABOVE: Brytnee Caldwell sleds down a hill in the Bighorn National Forest.

Whether sledders have opted for the zany saucer-sled spin or the facefirst toboggan rush, they can find plenty of fun in city limits and on hills in the nearby Bighorn Mountains. Linden Hill is located behind the Child Devel-

opment Center on the corner of Whitney and Jefferson streets in Sheridan. It offers wooden stairs for climbing to the top and several runs to the bottom. Beware, though, that it can get pretty icy. Another popular hill in Sheridan is in west Thorne-Rider Park, across from the Goose Creek pedestrian bridge. Find parking off 11th Street on the north end of Madia Field and look for a steep hill with a berm at the bottom to stop entry into the creek. If you’re looking for a

day of squeal-filled runs, go big at the “Arrowhead Bowl” located on the big bend past Arrowhead Lodge heading west on U.S. Highway 14. Park on the side of the highway nearest the hill and enjoy long runs down a large hill that can accommodate dozens of thrill seekers. While long runs mean long walks back to the top, parents and friends on snowmobiles often give rides to prolong the day’s fun and energy reserves. Remember to be courteous to others and don’t forget the hot chocolate!

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

The Great Outdoors

BIGHORN A MOUNTAINS

s John Muir once said, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” With the Bighorn Mountains a short drive away, it is easy for locals and tourists alike to answer that call to get out and enjoy nature. Find a sampling of some well-loved destinations below. For a complete list of trails and a map of the Bighorn National Forest, visit the U.S. Forest Service office located at 2013 East Second St. in Sheridan.

TONGUE RIVER CANYON This rocky chasm feels more remote than it is, offering towering canyon walls, the sounds of the cascading Tongue River and wide-open meadows for those willing to trek a ways — all within a few miles’ drive of Dayton. To reach the trailhead, go west on U.S. Highway 14 and

SOUTH PINEY CREEK

SHERD LAKE The southern end of the Bighorn Mountains, accessed via U.S. Highway 16 west of Buffalo, offers a plethora of hiking, fishing and backpacking options. For a day of autumn fishing, or a quiet seat by a stunning lake, hike 1.8 miles on Trail #046 from the Circle Park Trailhead to reach Sherd Lake. Crystal clear and dotted with lily pads, Sherd Lake anchors the Sherd Lake

turn onto County Road 92 just before reaching Dayton town limits. You will find the trailhead at the end of the road. The trail winds through the canyon for 11.2 miles and connects with Forest Service Road 196. Make it a day trip or an easy overnight backpacking excursion.

Loop which offers access to several pristine mountain lakes when Trail #046 is connected with Trail #095. This loop is a hearty day-trip or pleasant overnight backpack. To find the trailhead, drive 15.7 miles west of Buffalo on Highway 16, turn right onto Forest Service Road 20, drive 2 miles, turn left onto Forest Service Road 384 and drive ½ mile more to the end.

Need a quick getaway? Head to South Piney Creek in the quaint mountain town of Story for a moderate trail that offers the soothing sounds of running water and the invigorating smell of pine. This 3.5-mile roundtrip trail winds beneath rock walls used by local rock climbers and hardly leaves the side of the creek. It is

perfect for a fall hike or winter snowshoeing trip. Take Highway 87 south to Story, turn right onto Fish Hatchery Road and follow it to Story Centennial Park. Turn left onto ThorneRider Road, go 0.3 miles and turn right to stay on Thorne-Rider Road. Pass Thorne-Rider Youth Camp and find the trailhead at the end of the road.

LOOKING Find area outdoor recreation opportunities online at: FOR MORE? WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM 62

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WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

The Great Outdoors

STEAMBOAT POINT

SIBLEY LAKE

An iconic landmark in the Bighorn Mountains, Steamboat Point is a beloved destination that offers a sweeping view from the valley to 13,005-foot Black Tooth Mountain and back around. The rock outcropping resembles the bow of a steamboat

Grab your ice skates or fishing pole for a day on this easily accessed mountain lake, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Located 20 miles west of Dayton on U.S. Highway 14, the destination offers two picnic areas, a campground,

and offers breathtaking photo opportunities from base or summit. The hike to the top is short, just under 1 mile, but steep. Find the trailhead and a parking lot beneath Steamboat Point approximately 13 miles west of Dayton on U.S. Highway 14.

boat access and a trail system for hiking in warmer months and Nordic skiing or snowshoeing when the snow flies. The warming hut located west of the lake was recently expanded and offers a perfect destination for winter excursions.

ABOVE: Joe McGrath catches a Rainbow Trout from his ice hole on Sibley Lake in the Bighorn Mountains west of Dayton.

LOOKING FOR EVEN MORE? Find more outdoor adventure options online at: WWW.FS.USDA.GOV/BIGHORN WWW.SHERIDANWYOMING.ORG

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The Great Outdoors

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING AND SNOWSHOEING

or the winter sports enthusiast wishing to avoid the drone of a snowmobile motor, the Bighorn Mountains offer six cross-country ski and snowshoeing areas. There are three off U.S. Highway 14 west of Dayton and three off U.S. Highway 16 west of Buffalo. Trails are open December through May. The Black Mountain Nordic Club was formed in 2001 to promote cross-country skiing and provide consistent trail grooming at the Sibley Lake and Cutler Hill ski areas in the northern Bighorns. All grooming and other maintenance work is done by volunteers. Last winter, the club logged 300 total hours grooming both areas at least once a week, club president Curt Schwamb said. This summer members expanded the warming hut

on the Sibley Lake trail system, increasing its size to 20-by-7 feet, adding a 6-foot deck out front and installing a second woodstove. The original hut, used summer and winter, was built in 1983 and got crowded on busy days. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gives everybody a spot, an oasis to get out of the snow and the wind,â&#x20AC;? Schwamb said. Membership in the Black Mountain Nordic Club is $20 for individuals and $30 for families. Fees cover grooming costs and prevent the ski areas from having to charge a day use fee for maintenance. In the southern Bighorns, the Pole Creek and Willow Park ski areas offer a variety of loops, hills, ridges and forested areas to explore, with a total of 24 groomed trail miles. In Sheridan, South Park off Brundage Lane offers a groomed trail for a quick ski or snowshoe getaway.

ABOVE: Melisa Phillips, left, and mother Francy Hoyer trek up the Sibley Lake trail in the Bighorn Mountains west of Dayton.

NEAR SHERIDAN 1

Sibley Lake #558: Located 20 miles west of Dayton on U.S. Highway 14, these trails are track set for classic skiing and some loops provide for skate/ski opportunities. Snowshoers are also welcome, but no dogs, please. Trail system begins and ends at Sibley Lake parking area. 66

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Cutler Hill #552: Bring your dog and get out to enjoy gentle slopes, spur trails and a meadow loop on this groomed trail system. Find the parking area on the north side of U.S. Highway 14 just 19 miles west of Dayton.

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Antelope Butte #559: Head over the mountains on U.S. Highway 14 to find this ski area 40 miles east of Greybull. The system offers four loops. The trails begin and end at the Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area parking lot on Forest Service Road 244.

NEAR BUFFALO 1

Pole Creek #557: Head west on U.S. Highway 16 to find seven loops that will satisfy any skill level. The light usage and nearly 11 miles of groomed trail provide for a peaceful outing. Trail begins and ends at the parking area on Forest Service Road 457.

Pole Creek: This area offers cross-country skiers and snowshoers the chance to explore loops, hills, ridges and forested areas all winter long. Take Highway 16 west from Buffalo 17 miles and turn onto Forest Service Road 456.

Willow Park #556: Find 13 miles of groomed trails for a variety of skill levels on loops, hills and ridges â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all with breathtaking scenery. Trails begin and end at the Willow Park picnic area 45 miles west of Buffalo on Highway 16.

COURTESY PHOTO | CHARLOTTE DARLING OF POWDER PASS NORDIC CLUB

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

The Great Outdoors

ANTELOPE BUTTE

t’s been a long haul for the Antelope Butte Foundation. The nonprofit organization was established in 2011 and its board members have been working ever since to raise the funds needed to reopen the mountain recreation area. ABF Board President Mark Weitz signed the purchase and sale agreement on June 19, 2015, after nearly four years of collaboration between the USFS, ABF board of directors and ABF’s counsel, the law firm of Hogan Lovells US LLP. ABF purchased the improvements on the property — the lifts, lodge and outbuildings — for $275,000, the value determined by an independent appraisal in November 2014. Antelope Butte Ski Area was in operation for many years until 2004 when it abruptly closed due to dissolution of the family business. Plans for the area include renovating and updating the ski lodge, rehabilitating lifts for the ski area and transforming the area into a year-round recreational facility. In the summer of 2017, the Antelope Butte Foundation secured additional funding to help get the nonprofit recreation and ski area up and going. The bulk of the funding comes from a $250,000 gift from Tom and Joan Scott, alongside a $100,000 challenge donation from the Dan and Jeanne Scott Family Foundation. ABF beat the Dan and Jeanne Scott Family

Fund challenge deadline by four months. Individual community members gave more than $100,000 in matching donations; one such matching donation came in the form of a second gift from the Ruth Pruitt Phillips Foundation for $22,000. ABF also received a third donation from the Anne and Scott Nickerson Family Foundation for $25,000. Tom Scott said his family supports efforts to reopen the area in the Bighorn Mountains for a number of reasons, primarily that it will provide all-season recreational opportunities for the entire community. “The area will draw people here, and it’s a great resource to have,” Scott said in a press release from ABF. “To have things that draw families here, and that give us all the chance to get in the mountains and enjoy nature — those are great things for the community.” Donations are going toward lodge improvements as the foundation works to reopen the area as a year-round facility. Construction is proceeding in earnest, and ABF planned to hold an open house in October, weather permitting. The Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area is a nonprofit year-round mountain recreation area located in the Bighorn National Forest, currently under restoration, with a goal of opening in 2018. The Antelope Butte Foundation aims to provide affordable and accessible year-round mountain recreation, training and educational opportunities.

ONLINE AT WWW.ANTELOPEBUTTE.ORG 68

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COURTESY PHOTO

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

ARTS &

ENTERTAINMENT The

BRINTON MUSEUM Location:

239 Brinton Road in Big Horn

Phone:

307-672-3173

Hours:

Labor Day to Dec. 23 – Wednesday through Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 24 to March 15 – closed. March 15 to Memorial Day – Wednesday through Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MORE INFO: Admission:

Adults: $10 Seniors 62+: $8 Students 13 and older: $8 Bus tours: $5/person Free for: Members, Sheridan and Johnson County students, children 12 and younger, school groups, NARM and ROAM members, active duty and retired military and their families, Indian Tribal members* *All groups need valid ID 70

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any ranches, homes and families in the Sheridan area have bragging rights about their ties to the area and their history. The Brinton Museum is no exception. According to the museum website, Bradford Brinton, born on June 26, 1880, in Illinois, was the son of a prosperous family. His sister, Helen, was born on Sept. 29, 1874. Bradford Brinton attended Yale University and graduated in 1904 from the Sheffield School of Engineering. After graduation, he joined his father in the farm implement business; later he became a director and manager of the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Company. In 1916, he served under General Pershing in Mexico and in World War I (1918 to 1919) in France. On Sept. 2, 1916, he married Catherine Bell Metcalf. Their twin daughters, Pat and Barbara, were born in 1926. He bought the Quarter Circle A Ranch from William Moncreiffe in 1923, extensively remodeled the ranch house in 1927-28 and added the horse barn across the creek and Little Goose Creek Lodge. He died in February 1936 while in Florida and left the ranch to his sister Helen Brinton, who used it as a summer home. She died in 1960 and left the ranch in trust with the North-

ern Trust Company of Chicago, which administered it as the Bradford Brinton Memorial & Museum until 2013. Now, The Brinton Museum is a local nonprofit listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2015, a 24,000-squarefoot expansion was completed in the form of the new Forrest E. Mars Jr. building. The three-floor building includes the Brinton Bistro and expanded storage and gallery space. Visitation to the museum has more than doubled since the expansion, with those visitors coming from all 50 states and dozens of countries. According to visitor surveys, Midwest travelers lead in visitation to the museum. Exhibits featured at the museum include 19th, 20th and 21st century art and artifacts that are either showcased at the museum permanently or remain on display for a certain amount of time. Permanent collections at the museum include Western art, American Indian art and the historic Brinton ranch house. The most popular exhibit at The Brinton is the Brinton house. Stop by the museum for guided tours, bird watching, lunch and a number of other activities. For a full schedule of events, see the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website.

ONLINE AT WWW.THEBRINTONMUSEUM.ORG WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

ON TAP Sheridan boasts award-winning breweries, distilleries and wineries.

f Sheridan were judged by its local breweries, distilleries and wineries, it would be aptly deemed classy, adventurous, community minded and, like a cowboy, built for hard work and even harder play. Visiting locally owned eateries and drinking establishments is a perfect way to get the true flavor of a town, and Sheridan is no exception. On Broadway Street just east of downtown Sheridan, you will find not one, but two local, well-loved breweries: Black Tooth Brewing Company and Luminous Brewhouse. Over the railroad tracks on Crook Street, Koltiska Distillery produces its spirit liqueurs that

are strong yet smooth, just like the true cowboys of the West. On Main Street, Weston Wineries works to promote the great state of Wyoming with each of its American grown, Wyoming cellared red and white wines. Below the Bighorn Mountains on the way to Big Horn, Bighorn Spirits believes “having the freedom to throttle up our engines to go, see and do is a blessing we should all revel in and respect.” Down the highway 30 miles, MISHAP! Brewing Company is a small craft brewery in the heart of downtown Buffalo. It’s worth the drive to visit the vibrant mountain town and sip a pint or two.

BLACK TOOTH BREWING COMPANY

Black Tooth Brewing Company distributes its widely acclaimed brews across Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, western Nebraska and eastern Idaho. It brews, packages and sells more than 700 barrels of beer each month, employing nearly 30 craft beer lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Deeply invested in the local community, Black Tooth holds monthly Pint Nights in which local nonprofits are invited to share their passion with patrons and $1 of every beer sold benefits the cause.

Location:

312 Broadway St. in Sheridan

WWW.BLACKTOOTHBREWINGCOMPANY.COM

LUMINOUS BREWHOUSE Luminous Brewhouse opened a new taproom a year ago and this year won the People’s Choice Spur Award at Sheridan’s annual Suds n’ Spurs Brewfest. The small craft brewery grew from the dreams of a couple Sheridan born and raised homebrew friends. The new digs for Luminous

feature ample space for locals and visitors to gather and connect. Its stage features homegrown music almost nightly, an open mic night every Thursday evening and a bluegrass jam every Tuesday.

Location:

504 Broadway St. in Sheridan

WWW.LUMINOUSBREWHOUSE.COM

ABOVE: Co-founders Seth Orr, left, and Cooley Butler sit inside Luminous Brewhouse. 72

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WESTON WINERIES

BIGHORN SPIRITS, LLC Location:

7 Stagecoach Drive in Sheridan

While locals and visitors can enjoy a glass of American grown, Wyoming cellared wine in the Main Street storefront for Weston Wineries, the company purposely keeps its name off its labels, featuring instead three digits — 307, the area code for the entire state — and a variety of Wyoming icons and legends like Devil’s Tower, the Tetons, horse whisperer Buck Brannaman and country

music star Chris LeDoux. Wine juices are sourced and shipped in climate-controlled transport from the West Coast and across America then bottled and cellared in Sheridan where they become part of the winery’s 307 Wine label and a taste of Wyoming for all.

Location:

122 N. Main St. in Sheridan

WWW.WESTONWINERIES.COM

Owned by local ranching family, the Maestris, Bighorn Spirits, LLC, has multiple products that speak to Wyoming’s culture. Throttle 2 Bottle Canadian Whisky was developed to aid in the celebration of our freedoms and to recognize the servicemen and women of the past, present and future who provide the freedom all Americans enjoy. A portion of profits are given to veterans, military families or a military cause. In addition, the company produces Yellow Snow — a

premium peppermint schnapps — and the recently launched WYO Rodeo Whisky, which won a 2017 silver medal in the Whiskies of the World competition.

WWW.BIGHORNSPIRITSWY.COM

MISHAP! BREWING COMPANY

KOLTISKA DISTILLERY

Operated by Koltiska brothers Robert, Jason and Justin since 2001, Koltiska Distillery is open for tours and ready to impress with its ever-expanding product line. The Koltiska family settled in Sheridan in the late 1800s and now boasts five generations who contribute to the community in a variety of

ways — including providing fine, hand-crafted liqueur to be shared with friends and family while upholding the traditions and strength of the American West and the American cowboy.

Location:

644 Crook St. in Sheridan

WWW.KOLTISKA.COM

MISHAP! Brewing Company, located in the heart of downtown Buffalo 30 miles south of Sheridan, bills itself as purveyor of unique handcrafted beers. With monikers full of sass and local pride, the uniqueness of the brews is evident: Fire Hole Chili Porter, Right Meow Cream Ale, Bomber Mountain Oatmeal Stout and That New Blonde,

to name a few. Buffalo may be a small town, but this brewery is big on getting people together to enjoy a one-of-a-kind brew and reminisce over the day, be it mundane or mountain-filled adventurous.

Location:

48 S. Main St. in Buffalo

FACEBOOK.COM/MISHAPBREWING/ WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

SAGE

COMMUNITY ARTS

MORE INFO: Location:

21 W. Brundage St. in Sheridan

Phone:

307-674-1970

Hours:

Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m to 5 p.m.

ONLINE AT WWW.ARTINSHERIDAN.COM OR

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ix words capture the purpose of SAGE Community Arts located in the heart of downtown Sheridan: See art. Create art. Promote art. Those six words capture three actions that promote the overarching mission of SAGE — to inspire and build community through the visual arts. Last year, the center, operated by the Sheridan Artists Guild, Et Al, moved from its home in the old train depot to a visually stunning space in the newly renovated Montgomery building on the corner of

Main and Brundage streets. The new space makes SAGE member and main gallery exhibits more accessible to the public and puts the guild in closer proximity to other organizations that support the arts like the WYO Theater, the Downtown Sheridan Association and the Sheridan Public Arts Committee. “It can be very expensive for artists to maintain their own retail gallery and this space provides artists with a prime retail location to display and sell their art at a fraction of the cost,” SAGE board member Laura Lehan said.

SEE ART Seeing art is as easy as stepping into the modern gallery that features a bi-monthly rotation of local, national and international artists and photographers. In 2017, exhibits included a national juried show, an exhibit of vibrant creations from two of Sheridanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up-and-coming artists, a display of splendid dinnerware curated by renowned ceramics expert Elaine Henry, a juried photography show, SAGE member exhibits and more.

CREATE ART SAGE Community Arts offers a plethora of opportunities to create art. A spacious, cement-floored classroom in the basement invites novice and professional artists alike to roll up their sleeves and create. Uncorked classes offer anyone and everyone the chance to bring a beverage of choice and receive step-by-step instruction to paint a masterpiece; workshops with professional artists offer the chance to improve skills; informal show-andtell sessions and life drawing sessions provide community members the opportunity to create together and to receive feedback from peers. Kids art camps give younger generations an outlet for emotion and imagination.

PROMOTE ART SAGE has more than 200 members who benefit from the opportunity to display and sell their artwork in the memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gallery as well as reduced member fees for workshops and other chances to share their artwork with others. SAGE staff, board members and volunteers seek to support members in creating, exhibiting, selling, teaching and inspiring others through their art. WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

WYO W THEATER

MORE INFO: Location:

42 N. Main St. in Sheridan

Phone:

307-672-9084

Box office hours:

Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.; Saturday when there is a performance, noon to 4 p.m.

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ith its classic n e o n s i g n and light-up marquee, the WYO Theater is an anchor in Sheridan’s Main Street scene. What goes on inside the theater makes the WYO a staple in a city known for its culture. The final phase of the WYO’s expansion efforts will eventually see the entire Hallmark building north of the theater renovated. The first floor is currently undergoing its makeover with O’Dell Construction serving as construction manager. Full occupancy is scheduled for November but some of the space will be usable prior to that time. Built in 1903 by the Masons — who met on the third floor for decades — the building was solid but aging and in need of care. Project engineers with Arete Design Group have said if work had been delayed too much longer, the building may have been past saving. Susan Bigelow, Sheridan College vice president of external relations and economic development, wrote the grant that secured the $2 million needed to complete first floor renovations and updates to the “envelope,” or external structure of the building. As with phase one of the expansion into the old Perkins building, the effort to renovate the Hallmark building has been a collaboration, she said. The Wyoming Business Council bestowed the $2 million grant under its downtown development program. The value of the building, which was donated by Whitney Benefits to the college which then donated it to the city,

was used for the required local match to secure the grant. The WYO Theater is owned by the city of Sheridan. Sheridan College and the WYO Theater have joined forces to raise the remaining $1.7 million needed to renovate the second and third floors of the building. Those funds will primarily come from grants and private donations. Bigelow said she believes all the work will be more than worth it, contributing to Sheridan’s growing creative economy and overall downtown appeal. “With renovating and saving a historic building on a downtown corner, a prominent downtown corner, we really add to the vibrancy and attractiveness of our downtown area,” Bigelow said. The expansion further solidifies the WYO’s partnership with the college’s theater and dance program, bringing to life the vision for the WYO Performing Arts and Education Center. Previously the college had no permanent space for dance instruction. Classes will now be held in the new dance studio, which will also be available for events and rentals, WYO Theater executive Director Erin Butler said. That proven ability to fill a space to the brim is what enabled the WYO to secure additional money from the Wyoming Business Council, which also granted $2 million in 2011 for the Mars Theater expansion south of the WYO, Bigelow said. The Mars Theater is a black box theater that allows for flexibility in the production space for plays, concerts and more.

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

THEATER SCENE 78

Arts & Entertainment

f all the world’s a stage, Sheridan could be considered “all the world.” The performing arts thrive in this small Wyoming town, bucking stereotypes and providing abundant entertainment in comedy, drama, musical theater, improv, children’s productions and more. “For generations people have been doing theater here and going to see theater, so it’s becoming an ingrained part of the culture,” Sheridan College theater teacher DannyLee Hodnett said. “We like theater. We expect theater and we support theater. It’s a beautiful thing.” From a popular theater festival launching new works and bettering the craft and a vigorous college theater program to talented community and youth theater and a direct link to live Met Opera productions, opportunities abound to enjoy and perform in shows on Sheridan’s many stages.

BELOW: Addison Dugal acts in Trident Theatre’s presentation of “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” during a rehearsal at the Carriage House Theater.

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CARRIAGE HOUSE THEATER The Sheridan Civic Theatre Guild started in 1957 and continues to go strong, offering local actors and crew chances throughout the year to dive into another world and bring it to life for packed-house audiences. The guild usually performs in the intimate setting of the Carriage House Theater next to Sheridan’s

iconic Kendrick Mansion. Plays range from musicals and zany comedies to edgy drama meant to make people think.

Location:

419 Delphi Ave. in Sheridan

Phone:

307-672-9886

ONLINE AT WWW.SHERIDANSTAGE.COM

TRIDENT THEATRE Trident Theatre is Sheridan’s resident semi-professional theater company. Its mission is simple yet ambitious: To produce theatrical works written by and inspired by playwrights who are turning the tide of the theatrical landscape, or that have changed the course

of theater history. It aims to connect audiences to theatrical experiences on a visceral level that demands conversation long after the theatrical event is over. You won’t want to miss what this upstart company has to offer.

ONLINE AT WWW.TRIDENTTHEATRE.COM OR

BELOW: David Myers, left, reacts to Rustin Burr during a rehearsal of “The Actor’s Nightmare” and “The Real Inspector Hound” at the Carriage House Theater.

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WYOMING THEATER FESTIVAL

Phone:

307-672-9084

The fall theater season launches with the Wyoming Theater Festival, which just completed its third year. This innovative festival sees the development of new plays and provides visiting and local thespians the chance to engage in readings, rehearsals, live performances and talkback sessions with the public. Festival participation and attendance has increased significantly each year, a tribute to its positive influence on local, regional and national theater.

ONLINE AT WWW.WYOMINGTHEATERFESTIVAL.COM OR

TANDEM PRODUCTIONS For 23 years, Tandem Productions has been harnessing the energy and imagination of children ages 8-15 and whirling it into worthwhile productions and a lifelong love for theater. Co-founded by Richard and Tami Davis, the children’s theater program serves as a vital link to further pursuit

of theater in high school and beyond. The skills learned in the summer production — and at YMCA theater camps also hosted by Tami Davis — translate into stellar high school theater productions that consistently play to soldout houses.

ONLINE AT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM “TANDEM PRODUCTIONS”

Phone:

307-672-7491

SHERIDAN COLLEGE Last year, Sheridan College completed the Whitney Center for the Arts, cementing its commitment to raising up high quality performers who thankfully share their musical and acting talents with the community. Sheridan College theater productions grace several stages around town including the WYO Theater, the Mars Theater — an intimate black box theater space in the WYO complex — and the

modern stage in the Whitney Center for the Arts on campus. Supporting the students is easy because it’s entertainment at its best.

Phone:

307-674-6446, ext. 3025

Location:

Whitney Center for the Arts, 3059 Coffeen Ave. in Sheridan

ONLINE AT WWW.WHITNEYARTS.ORG WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

WHITNEY RINK AT THE M&M’S CENTER

n a state like Wyoming, where winters can cause people to hibernate inside for days at a time, an indoor ice rink seems like a no-brainer.

ABOVE: Calloway Vaughn exits the ice at Whitney Rink at the M&M’s Center.

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Who wouldn’t like an indoor facility to learn to skate, catch a hockey game or figure skating practice. While Sheridan boasts an indoor facility now, that wasn’t always the case. Before the Whitney Rink at the M&M’s Center was built, the usefulness of the ice rink in Sheridan only

lasted from the first freeze to the last thaw. Now the re-energized layout includes a roof and walls, which has been a big boost for the organization. The facility now allows for use of the ice rink to begin earlier and end later. Activities offered include free open skates, ice-skating lessons, figure skating and hockey for both adults and children. The organization’s website includes a weekly schedule for locals and visitors alike to explore.

Sheridan County

PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM ONLINE AT WWW.SHERIDANWYOLIBRARY.ORG

t doesn’t matter the time of year, books provide frequent entertainment for the young and old. But in the winter months, it seems, more people find themselves curled up under a blanket flipping through pages of their latest literary find. For decades, the libraries in Sheridan County have helped area residents fill the time during the long winter months. Before there was a Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library, there was the Carnegie Library. After receiving a grant from Andrew Carnegie in 1904 to build a library, on Aug. 1, 1905, the library doors first opened. In 1974 the library was torn down and the Margaret S. Fulmer Memorial Public Library opened at its current location on West Alger Street. After an expansion in 1985, the library

grew to its 30,000 square feet. On any given day, more than 1,000 people visit the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library. Thousands of books, audio books and DVDs are available for checkout, but the library isn’t just a place for reading. Opportunities to research information on the history and culture of Wyoming can be found within the building. The Wyoming Room holds a collection of Western history; homestead maps and databases; photographs; obituary and birth record files; and Sheridan and Big Horn newspaper collections on microfilm. The Wyoming Room is a hotspot for local research on Sheridan County’s history. Exhibits are constantly changing with new artists every month put on display in the mezzanine, Inner Circle and other areas of the library. Community activities at the library include reading programs

for babies to tweens and specialized programs that focus on different themes or activities. The library also offers book discussions and opportunities to listen to educational speakers that visit the library. In addition to the programs available at the library, there is a service that reaches those who cannot get to the library. The homebound services program began in the late 1960s at the old Carnegie Library and carried over to Fulmer library. The program serves between 65-75 people once a month by providing resources and materials to those who cannot visit the library. Beyond Sheridan, branch libraries provide programming and access to residents of the outlying communities. Story, Clearmont and Ranchester each boast a branch library that provides a variety of programming and book discussions throughout the year.

ABOVE: Preschoolers exit the library after story time at Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library.

MORE INFO: Location:

Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library 335 W. Alger St. in Sheridan

Phone:

307-674-8585

Hours:

Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Sunday

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

COMMUNITY

HOLIDAY

DINNER

urkey, green beans and all the fixings fill the plates of local residents each year in Sheridan County as families gather to celebrate the holidays as a community. The Community Holiday Dinner is aptly named; it is free and open to anyone in the community who wants to attend. At each of the events in recent years, the dinner has served more than 1,200 people. A dinner of that size takes a lot of effort and many volunteers. The Wyoming Girls School students volunteer each year by pulling meat off of 60 turkeys that go to feed the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attendees. Various groups set up and tear down, but most of the need is during the dinner itself. Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors serve food and other groups clean tables and help people find seats

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and carry plates. The preparation for the event begins early in the year, but with the years of experience only a few things are tweaked year to year. The annual event didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t start as big as it has become, though. In 1991, Bob De Fries was president of the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. He wanted to bring an event to Sheridan that would bring the whole community together. From that desire, the Community Holiday Dinner began. In its first year, the event fed approximately 350 people. The event has become a sort of tradition to area families, who often attend every year. In addition to the meal, which is organized and served by the Chamber Ambassadors, the event also includes gift bags that are passed out to children and adults who attend.

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

CRAFT BAZAARS

t’s unanimous: After Labor Day, kitchen counters, couches and other open surfaces are no longer safe in the houses of crafty types. Labor Day means fall is coming, which means the season for holiday bazaars is just around the bend. It’s time to create. “For me, creating something equals stress relief,” said Amber Townsend, owner of The Petaled Porch. “If I’m not creating, I feel diminished.” Like many residents who set up shop at Sheridan’s holiday bazaars, Townsend’s creations of re-purposed furniture are a side gig to a full-time job or two. These crafty types agreed, however, that the long hours and messy houses are worth it for the joy of sharing their unique handicrafts with others. Sheridan’s season of craft bazaars begins a few weeks before Thanksgiving and carries

into go-time for last-minute Christmas shoppers. Bazaars fill church basements, hotel conference rooms, high school gymnasiums and fairground exhibit halls. Goods range from homemade jams and knit hats to repurposed furniture, artsy home decor, leathercraft and much, much, much more. While local organizers admit craft bazaars are a lot of work, it’s worth it to provide opportunities for people to buy locally made, one-of-a-kind gifts, they say. For shoppers, perusing the host of local craft bazaars has become a holiday tradition. Besides the obvious benefit of finding good gifts, there’s always good conversation to be had over homemade chili and cinnamon rolls. See thesheridanpress.com or the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce website for a full list of holiday bazaars.

ABOVE: Zerah Allen demonstrates to Marge Davey how to use her homemade bookmark holders. Allen sold her bookmark holders at Behind the Picket Fence Vintage Craft and Art Sale at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds. 84

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CHRISTMAS

STROLL T

he holiday season and those that enjoy it thrive on tradition. Sheridan’s Christmas Stroll falls right into the category of rich family tradition as the entire community comes together the day after Thanksgiving to walk off the extra helpings of turkey and catch up with friends. For more than 20 years, the Christmas Stroll has brought together friends and family to highlight downtown businesses and kick off the holiday shopping season. The Christmas Stroll provides an opportunity to shop local and support homegrown businesses. In addition to the shopping, free hot chocolate, live music, trolley and wagon rides are available. Mr. and Mrs. Claus are also always on hand to greet children and hear their Christmas wishes. In order to generate excitement and involve the community in planning for the event, the Sheridan County Chamber of Commerce organizes a button design contest each year. Students in grades one through six work on their designs in April to be entered

in the button design contest. They create a button design around the theme of the stroll to go with the “Get Caught Shopping” campaign. The mayor then presents the winner with a framed copy of the design and $100 in Chamber Bucks. The winner of the button design contest is typically announced in November. This year’s theme for the button design contest and the Christmas Stroll as a whole is “Star of Wonder.” This year’s theme was chosen by the event committee as a tribute to the original song “We Three Kings” as the lyrics tell the story of the Star of Wonder guiding the Three Kings to “thy perfect light.” The buttons have a number and every business pulls a random number with which they will be associated. The nights between the Christmas Stroll to Christmas Eve, participating stores check numbers and if the shopper has the same number the business does, the shopper wins a prize. In addition, the Chamber of Commerce has “elves” that go out throughout the holiday season and if they catch people shopping in a store and wearing a stroll button they can win Chamber Bucks. WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

SHERIDAN COUNTY MUSEUM

he mission of the Sheridan County Museum is to preserve, interpret and exhibit historical materials that relate to the history of the Sheridan area; to provide educational opportunities for people of all ages; and promote and encourage historical entities and programs in Sheridan County. Those efforts put the museum and its staff above others in the state. Among the museum’s offerings, the Exploratorium features visual, educational and interactive activities for children ages 4-11 to help bring history to life. The Exploratorium exhibits resin animal skulls and tracks so children can explore what animals can be found in Sheridan County and what these animals look like. It also offers children’s books relating to Native American, Western and American history and sample clothing — like a train

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conductor’s hat or miner’s helmet — for children to try on. SCHSM curator of education Shawna Michelena oversees most of the educational programs offered at the museum, for both children and adults, and has supervised the expansion of the museum’s Tidbit initiative from a summer schedule to a year-round program. Museum director John Woodward said the program has grown from 120 to more than 300 participants this year. “She’s really taken the lead in developing programing that helps appeal to people of all ages,” Woodward said. The most popular permanent exhibit is one depicting the Battle of the Rosebud. This battle was fought eight days before the Battle of the Little Bighorn which raged just 30 miles north of Sheridan in 1876. The exhibit is called “Before Custer there was the Rosebud” and in-

cludes a guided tour and diorama depicting the battle. Other permanent exhibits include one about the history of coal mining in Sheridan County — complete with another mind-boggling detailed diorama by local artist Tom Warnke — and one about the Tongue River Tie Flume, a series of water chutes that transported millions of railroad ties down the Bighorn Mountains for use in area railroad construction. The museum also features several seasonal exhibits on unique topics in regional history. These have included the Sheridan Brewing Company, sports and recreation, an exhibit on renowned local artist

Hans Kleiber and a look at the history of dude ranches and mountain resorts in the area. From January to April, the museum is closed so staff, board members and volunteers can plan, curate and install the next season’s special exhibits. Educational programming continues year-round. “We cover a broad area and we keep historical stories alive and open to the public,” Woodward said about the museum’s efforts. The museum prizes academic and public research, all with the mission of preserving, interpreting and exhibiting Sheridan County’s rich history for the enjoyment and education of all.

MORE INFO: Location:

Hours:

Phone:

307-675-1150

March-April: Museum store open 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Admission:

May: Museum open 1-5 p.m. daily

850 Sibley Circle in Sheridan

Adults $4, seniors 60 and older $3, students $2, children 12 and younger, veterans and active military free

January-February: Museum closed

June-Labor Day: Museum open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily Labor Day-Dec. 17: Museum open 1-5 p.m. daily

ONLINE AT WWW.SHERIDANMUSEUM.ORG

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Arts & Entertainment

TRAIL END

STATE HISTORIC SITE

t isn’t often you get to walk into somebody’s home and poke around — look in the closets, see what they ate for dinner and even peek inside their bedrooms to get an understanding for who they are. The Trail End State Historic Site allows you to do just that. The museum, also known as Kendrick Mansion, is a fully furnished historic house that interprets the time period 1913-1933 in Sheridan. It is the home of John and Eula Kendrick and the Kendricks are the only family to have lived in the home. “It’s kind of like they just stepped out and you’re stepping in to view the home as it was,” Curator Sharie Prout said. More than 90 percent of all items are original; down to Band-Aid boxes and tooth paste. One of Wyoming’s most successful rancher/politicians, John Kendrick was a self-educated Texan who began his career as a penniless cowboy and ended it as a U.S. senator.

In between, he was a rancher, banker, land developer, entrepreneur and Wyoming governor. The home became a state historic site in 1982 and more than 17,000 people a year visit Trail End. Resources offered to visitors include self-guided tours, audio tours and an extensive website full of articles with more information that couldn’t fit into the museum’s exhibits, including photos of the families. From Dec. 15 to the end of March, the museum is closed. That time period allows the museum staff to create and install new exhibits and deep clean, which is hard to do when the museum is open to the public. However, before the Trail End closes for the season, a special event is held to celebrate Christmas. For more than 30 years, the museum has hosted an annual Holiday Open House. The entire house is decorated, including several 9-foot tall trees. The event also includes hot cider, Figgie pudding, live music in the ballroom and drawing room. Plus, Father Christmas makes an appearance to visit with children.

MORE INFO: Location:

Phone:

400 Clarendon Ave. 307-674-4589 in Sheridan

Winter Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. daily Sept. 1 through Dec. 14

ONLINE AT WWW.TRAILEND.COM 88

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WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

BATTLEFIELD SITES

J 90

ust as Wyoming boasts endless adventures for those seeking trips into the wild, it also boasts a wild history of battles. Here is a sampling of area battlefields open to visitors.

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MONTANA

BATTLE OF THE ROSEBUD 1 Location:

Take Wyoming 338 (also known as Decker Road) into Montana. Follow the road until you reach the entrance to Rosebud State Park near Busby, Montana.

Phone:

406-757-2298

CROW AGENCY

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

GARRYOWEN

BUSBY

NORTHERN CHEYENNE INDIAN RESERVATION

212

556

CROW INDIAN RESERVATION

Rosebud Battlefield State Park

Phone:

307-684-7629

DECKER

Connor Battlefield Historic Site

BIGHORN NATIONAL FOREST

2 Location:

Take exit 44 off of Interstate 90 to find Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site. The Wagon Box Fight State Historic Site can be located from here off of Wagon Box Road.

314

RANCHESTER

WAGON BOX FIGHT

BATTLE OF THE LITTLE BIGHORN 3 Location:

338

The museum is located off of Interstate 90 at Garryowen at exit 514. The battle site is located in Crow Agency off of exit 510 on Battlefield Tour Road 756.

SHERIDAN

Phone:

406-638-1876

BATTLE OF TONGUE RIVER

STORY

Fort Phil Kearny Historic Site

4 Location:

Two blocks off of U.S. Highway 14 in Ranchester. BUFFALO

Phone:

307-684-7629

WYOMING WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Battlefield Sites

BATTLE OF THE ROSEBUD Rosebud Battlefield is associated with the lead up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The battle represents the proactive position of the 1,500 Sioux and Northern Cheyenne as they forced the withdrawal of Brigadier General George Crook’s 1,000 troops at Rosebud Creek. The presence of thousands

of warriors and soldiers on the field on June 17, 1876, made the day one of the largest battles of the Indian wars. Just eight days later, because Crook’s troops were withdrawn from the war zone to resupply, they were not available to support Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and his troops at the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

ONLINE AT WWW.STATEPARKS.MT. GOV/ROSEBUD-BATTLEFIELD/

WAGON BOX FIGHT The Wagon Box Fight is known as one of the most unusual battles in the history of the West. Fought on Aug. 2, 1867, about 5 miles west of Fort Phil Kearny near the town of Story, the battle pitted an estimated 1,000 Indians under Chief Red Cloud’s command against a handful of soldiers and civilians under the command of Capt. James Powell. Powell and 26 soldiers and six civilian woodcutters were camped about 5 miles from

Fort Phil Kearny when the Indian forces attacked. They took cover inside an oval of wagon boxes used as a stock corral. They were able to hold off the Indian warriors from behind the 14 wagon boxes with their new rapid-fire rifles until a relief force arrived from the fort. Three men were killed and two wounded inside the wagon box corral. Indian casualties were estimated between five to 60 killed and five to 125 wounded.

ONLINE AT WWW.PHILKEARNY.VCN.COM

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BATTLE OF THE LITTLE BIGHORN Located over the border in Montana, the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument and battle site is a good day trip to take from Sheridan. On June 25, 1876, without authorization from his superior officer, Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer led his

men into an ambush that killed more than 250 men, including Custer himself. The battle was a crucial engagement because it was the last major Indian victory in North America. The site includes a museum and historic interpretation of the battle.

ONLINE AT WWW.CUSTERMUSEUM.ORG OR WWW.NPS.GOV/LIBI/

BATTLE OF TONGUE RIVER Located in Ranchester off of Interstate 90, Connor Battlefield State Historic Site was where the U.S. Army and the Arapahoe tribe met in the Battle of Tongue River. The battle is considered the most important engagement of the Powder River Expedition of 1865. It caused the Arapahoe to ally with the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes at the Fetterman Fight just a year later. The park has picnic areas, a playground, overnight camp-

ing facilities, fishing access and historic interpretations. Local residents recently marked the 150th anniversary of the battle that occurred on Aug. 29, 1865. Several people, including town historian Kim Fuka and Sheridan diorama artist Tom Warnke, teamed up to commemorate the anniversary. A diorama created by Warnke and several area residents was dedicated to the town as part of the anniversary commemoration.

ONLINE AT WWW.WYOPARKS.STATE.WY.US/SITE/ SITEINFO.ASPX?SITEID=15

SHERIDAN AREA COMMUNITIES QUICK FACTS • 427 total residents • Male: 230 • Female: 197 • Under 18: 87 • Largest age group: 45-54: 129

BIG HORN T

hough the community of Big Horn is small — just 427 residents — it is anything but a sleepy mountain town. Filling its 2.8 square miles of land in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains is a mercantile; three restaurants that draw patrons from Sheridan and beyond; two museums, including renowned art haven, The Brinton; a woman’s club; an active historical society; and the Barn in Big Horn, a chic venue used for weddings, parties, vintage markets and more. If that weren’t enough, the schools in Big Horn, part of Sheridan County School District 1, are fiercely prided, providing art, music and sporting events for students and residents alike. Big Horn bleeds maroon for its Rams. Outside of the community proper, there are two polo fields used weekly in summer months. The Big Horn Polo Club, one of the oldest polo clubs west of the Mississippi River, hosts matches on Sundays at the Big Horn Equestrian Center, also home to balloon festivals, state soccer extravaganzas and a Fourth of July celebration enjoyed by thousands. Area residents and visitors flock to the free polo matches, reveling in the chance to sit close to the ground-pounding action and sip on a beverage of choice beneath the grandeur of mountains and sunny skies. The champagne divot stomp alone is enough to draw the crowds. Who doesn’t want to sip champagne while stomping dislodged clumps of

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turf back into place for the safety and efficiency of one of the classiest sports in the world? The Flying H Polo Club, adjacent to the Big Horn Equestrian Center and often working hand-in-hand with the Big Horn Polo Club, is one of only three summer polo clubs in the United States to offer high-goal polo, drawing top international players each year. Anyone can enjoy the admission-free games on Thursdays and Saturdays in July and August. The Brinton Museum, located on the historic 620-acre Quarter Circle A Ranch, includes the 24,000-square-foot Forrest E. Mars Jr. building; the grounds of the ranch itself; the Historic Brinton Ranch House; the Brinton Bistro, offering local, artful food; and a working studio for leather artist Jim Jackson. Give yourself plenty of time to explore this gem below the Bighorns. The Forrest E. Mars Jr. building offers an extensive collection of western art by Frederic Remington, Charles Russel, Hans Kleiber and more; Plains Indian art and artifacts from the Goelet and Edith Gallatin and the Bradford Brinton Memorial Collections; and rotating gallery displays by modern artists. The ranch house is set up as owner Bradford Brinton left it and features originals from regional and national artists, many of whom Brinton knew personally. Big Horn offers history, art and class, but it also offers easy access to outdoor adventures small and large. Red Grade Road winds up the Bighorn Mountains and calls hikers, backpackers and ATV enthusiasts to wild pursuits. Just minutes up Red Grade, locals and tourists will find the Red Grade Trail System, providing miles of trail for hiking and biking with a stunning view of the valley below.

QUICK FACTS • 954 total residents • Male: 508 • Female: 446 • Under 18: 185 • Largest age group: 35-44: 261

or 30 years, residents of the community of Story have hosted a yearly celebration of their quaint mountain town, using the event to connect with each other and invite people from area communities to come enjoy their slower pace of life for a couple days. The theme for this year’s Story Days was “That’s Our Story,” and it tipped its hat, in particular, to the 6oth anniversary of Story School. The K-8 elementary school is central to the community. In addition to educating its children, the school participates in a program where older Story residents are invited to meet one-on-one with students to foster cross-generational learning. The school also hosts a variety of community events throughout the year. Community pride begins at Story School and continues through adulthood for residents. The town itself is spread over nearly 14 miles of land area, heavily forested and tucked into the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. That doesn’t stop residents from gathering often. Three clubs in Story offer regular opportunities to get together: the Lions Club, Garden Club and Story Woman’s Club. The library is also a daily hub. “It’s a nice gathering place for Story,” Story Library branch manager Stephanie Hutt said. The library provides events and activities for residents throughout the year. “This library, we’re small in size but big in heart,” Hutt

STORY said. “People are shocked on what we have due to the size of the community. There is not a person who walks in where employees don’t know who they are.” The holidays also offer a time for gathering. Every fall since October 1975, the Story Woman’s Club has hosted a community Thanksgiving dinner. As with Story Days, it is an event that draws people from surrounding communities, filling more than 400 hungry tummies with homemade turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and a dizzying array of pies baked by members of the Story Woman’s Club. If you can’t go home for the holidays, go to the Thanksgiving dinner. Even if you can go home, Story is worth a trip for the dinner, for Story Days, for a chance to enjoy a meal at the Wagon Box Inn or Tunnel Inn and for outdoor adventure and education. Adjacent to Story Centennial Park, which features creek access and disc golf, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department operates Story Fish Hatchery and Visitor Center, a great place to learn about local fish and local waters. Penrose Trail and South Piney Creek in Story both offer fresh mountain air and a quick getaway — summer and winter. Enjoy the sound of Piney Creek babbling in warmer months or enjoy a quiet snowshoeing adventure in the winter surrounded by snow-covered trees and blue sky overhead. Whatever takes you to the small community, you won’t regret making Story part of your story.

ONLINE AT WWW.STORYWYOMING.ORG WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Sheridan County Towns

QUICK FACTS • 138 total residents • Male: 90 • Female: 48 • Under 18: 47 • Largest age group: 55-59: 29

CLEARMONT

nce a bustling shipping terminal for cattle and other western goods, Clearmont has settled into life as a small agriculture town — population 138, according to U.S. Census estimates. Its size doesn’t mean it should be overlooked, though. The drive to the community alone is worth it. Following U.S. Highway 14 southeast of Sheridan takes travelers through idyllic rolling hills dotted with sheep and cattle. Above the sometimes surprisingly steep mounds is a breathtaking, panoramic view of the Bighorn Mountains.

Clear Creek, for which the town was named, offers a quiet, often successful getaway for fishing as it winds around the hills and sparkles in Wyoming’s almost ever-present sunshine. The area is also well-loved for its hunting opportunities, particularly for antelope, on the high plains of Wyoming. The Clear Creek Stop provides a small cafe for locals and visitors, and there are several cabins available for rent to house hunters in the fall and motorcyclists who pass through in summer months on their way to the Black Hills. The town itself is ripe with history and small-town charm.

The only traffic jam one will encounter is a herd of cattle or a flock of turkeys. “We are a small community; we are pretty tight knit,” Clearmont Mayor Chris Schock said. “Everyone knows everyone.” Clearmont was founded in 1892 as a railroad town servicing the Burlington-Missouri Railroad (currently known as the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad). When railroad officials arrived, the town site was moved 1.5 miles and renamed to Clearmont. A favorite destination for visitors is the old jail, built in 1922 for $827. It is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Just a few miles before Clearmont coming from Sheridan or Buffalo people will find one of the nation’s most renowned artist residency programs. For more than 30 years, the Ucross Foundation has been a haven for artists, composers and writers. Located on

a working 20,000-acre cattle ranch, the residency allows artists to connect with the land, people and ethos of the northern High Plains and Rocky Mountain region. “Artists are coming from some of the biggest urban areas from around the world and they’ve never experienced the high plains. When they get here, the vast open space and the silence and the night skies are a really transforming experience,” Ucross Foundation President Sharon Dynak said. Ucross Foundation residents have won Pulitzer Prizes, Tony Awards, National Book Awards and more. In addition to the residency, the Ucross Foundation offers an art gallery with rotating exhibits that are worth the drive. The gallery is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The gallery is located at 30 Big Red Lane in Ucross, just half mile west of the intersection of Highways 14 and 16.

ONLINE AT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CLEARMONTWYOMING/

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QUICK FACTS • 903 total residents • Male: 481 • Female: 422 • Under 18: 202 • Largest age group: 45-54: 148

ayton is the doorway to adventures in the Bighorn Mountains, resting at the foot of the range on U.S. Highway 14. Right at town limits, people will find access to Tongue River Canyon, a stunning chasm carved by the Tongue River and site of the popular Bighorn Mountain Wild and Scenic Trail Run each year. The 11.2-mile trail winds above the river much of the time but snuggles close now and then to allow for a riverside rest and view of the water tumbling over boulders. Several miles up the trail, hikers will find a vast meadow verdant with wildflowers in the spring. Also within miles of town, the Amsden Creek Wildlife Habitat Management Area offers unrouted exploration and the potential to view elk and mule deer. The area is closed in winter months to provide crucial winter range for a variety of big game animals. Heading up the highway from Dayton, winter adventurers will find hiking at Steamboat Point, cross-country

DAYTON ONLINE AT WWW.DAYTONWYOMING.ORG

skiing and snowshoeing at Sibley Lake and the most popular sledding hill in the area — “The Bowl,” located on the big bend just past Arrowhead Lodge. Right in town, though, locals and visitors don’t want to miss a few surprising gems. The Gallery on Main, owned by longtime resident Gina Donnor, offers a plethora of art and photography by the area’s many talented artists. The art alone is worth taking some time to enjoy, but the Gallery on Main also offers homemade soups, quiche, cheesecakes and more. It is also a tasting room location for the Jackson Hole Winery. “We have so many local artists that look for places to show their work and it is beyond anything I imagined how it could turn out,” Donnor said about the gallery. “We are open year-round and open on Sundays. You can drink wine and look at art.” Just down the street, the Dayton Mercantile is living history. The building was constructed in 1882 by Henry Baker and included a dance

hall and mercantile. It is now owned and operated by Craig and Elaine Stevens and offers locally made jewelry, crafts and gifts, as well as sandwiches and ice cream. The Dayton Mercantile saw visitors from all over America and nearly 30 countries last year. Across the highway, the Hans Kleiber Studio Museum offers a look at the art and studio space of one of the area’s most renowned artists. Kleiber, a U.S. Forest Service ranger, was inspired by the majesty of the Bighorn Mountains to write poetry and sketch with pencils and

ink. He taught himself the complex art of etching and printing metal plates in order to make prints of his work. He gave up forestry in 1923 to pursue art full time. The town of Dayton also offers a much loved community center located in the old high school on Highway 14 on the edge of town. The Tongue River Valley Community Center provides a gym, cardio equipment, weight room, indoor climbing wall and space for after-school programs. It also offers a wide array of fitness programs for children and adults, as well as programs for seniors, including daily meals.

WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

Sheridan County Towns

QUICK FACTS • 911 total residents • Male: 482 • Female: 429 • Largest age group: 50-64: 160

RANCHESTER

anchester — a small but growing town of 911 residents according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates — is considered a bedroom community, but it still has a few tricks up its sleeve. The Ranchester Information Center houses an astonishingly intricate diorama of Connor Battle, also known as the Battle of Tongue River. “Where the Women and Children Fought the Soldiers” was created by Sheridan artist Tom Warnke and dedicated on the

DESTI NA TI O N SH ER I D A N

ONLINE AT WWW.RANCHESTERWYOMING.COM

150th anniversary of the battle in 2015. The actual battle site is located in Connor Battlefield State Park, a gathering place for locals and visitors located on the edge of town. The park offers camping, access to the Tongue River, picnic sites and a look at the historic battle for which it’s named. Connor Battle, a surprise attack on Arapaho Indians in the area and subsequent counterattack by the tribespeople that forced the American soldiers to withdraw, was one of the

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first battles in a series of skirmishes that eventually led to the famed Fetterman Fight. On the site of the battle 150 years later, Ranchester Mayor Peter Clark instigated a competition of a different sort. Each Fourth of July for the last two years, Ranchester has hosted an officially sanctioned North American Wife Carrying competition. The event is exactly what it sounds like: men carrying women — piggyback, over the shoulders like a sack of potatoes, or upside down with knees over shoulders and arms wrapped around waist — through an obstacle course that includes jumping hurdle-height bars and wading

through sand pits and water holes. The first year of the event, a visiting couple that participated went on to take second in the national competition. The town also offers a vibrant community center, the Tongue River Valley Community Center, that provides exercise equipment, ping pong tables and space for after-school programs. Across the highway from the information center and community center is a brand new state-of-the-art mercantile that serves as a community gathering spot during outdoor farmers markets in summer months. “It’s a wonderful town to live in,” Clark said.

INFORMATION

WYOMING

INFORMATION CENTER MORE INFO: Location:

1517 E. Fifth St. in Sheridan

he Wyoming Information Center was established in 1972 and offers visitor maps, brochures, information and insight on Sheridan from a local’s perspective. The busiest month for the center is typically July, but the center is open all year with extended hours during the summer months. The type of visitor varies based on the season. For example, summer passersby often include people on road trips, history buffs and adventure travelers. In the winter months, travelers typically include snowmobile enthusiasts venturing

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DEST I NA TI O N SHER I D A N

Phone:

307-673-7121

ONLINE AT WWW.SHERIDANWYOMING.ORG

into the mountains. No matter the season, though, visitors will find information on how to get to Yellowstone National Park and recommendations for highlights of the Sheridan area. Staff members at the center offer different insights and recommendations to visitors based on their interests — photography, hiking, history and more. With visitors from all over the world stopping at the Information Center, staff members of Sheridan Travel

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and Tourism — which has offices in the space — have the opportunity to showcase what makes Sheridan so special and over the years they’ve received positive feedback from visitors. “Everyone is very impressed with the beauty of the area and the friendliness and hospitality of our community. The general reaction is overwhelmingly positive,” said Megan Ahrens, the head of media for STT. “I’m pleased to hear Sheridan is becoming a destination unto itself for travelers; we’re hearing of weeklong stays and repeat visits.” It is important that Sheridan has an Information Center for travelers and locals to learn about the Sheridan area and its attractions. The goal of the information center is to provide current and valuable information to visitors and encourage folks passing through to stop by and spend some time in Sheridan.

WHAT YOU WILL FIND: • Sheridan Travel and Tourism offices • 24-hour public restrooms • One-on-one assistance from travel specialists • Brochures on the area’s points of interest • Information kiosk • Dog-walking area • Picnic area • RV waste disposal site • Parking • Panoramic view of the Bighorn Mountains • Wyoming Game and Fish Department regional offices nearby

INFORMATION

SHERIDAN COUNTY

CENSUS DATA A ccording to U.S. Census Bureau data, Sheridan County is home to 30,200 residents. The city of Sheridan has 17,873 residents.

CITY OF SHERIDAN

• 17,873 TOTAL RESIDENTS (2015 ESTIMATE)

• Female: 50.4 percent • Under 18: 22 percent • Persons 65 and older: 15.8 percent

SHERIDAN COUNTY

• 30,200 TOTAL RESIDENTS (2016 ESTIMATE)

• Median household income 2011-2015: $55,455 • Percent of people 25 years and older with a high school diploma: 94.5 percent • Percent of people 25 years or older with a bachelor’s degree or higher: 29.4 percent • Persons below poverty level: 9.5 percent • Mean travel time to work: 16.2 minutes

ONLINE AT WWW.SHERIDANWY.NET

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AD DIRECTORY ACT

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Hospital Pharmacy West 86

Affordable Autos

J’Dan Builders, LLC

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Alpha Graphics

Kosma Heating & AC

& Tourism

Balanced Living

Little Goose Liquors

Shipton’s Big R

Best Western

Sheridan Travel 108 2

Stacey Staben –

Martinizing

Dry Cleaning

Billings Airport

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Memorial Hospital of

Black Bear Antiques

Sheridan County

Medical Center

Carlton Construction

Mountain Inn Bar

SSR Construction

Century 21/BHJ Realty

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Mountain View

State Farm – Jon Oman

Christensen Enterprises

South Sheridan

Veterinary Hospital

Nest Home & Holiday

Northeast Wyoming

Champion Funeral Home

ERA Carroll Realty

Sheridan Center

Pediatric Associates

Clark & Associates

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Northern Wyoming

Concept Z

107

Mental Health

Cowboy State Bank

OK Corral Bar & Lounge 97

Crazy Woman Saloon

Once Upon A Story

Crossroads Health LLC

Pioneer Realty

Land Brokers, LLC

Custer Battlefield

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Powder River 93

Trading Post & Cafe

Energy Corp.

D&J Coins

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Powers Land Brokerage

ERA Carroll Realty

Prevention Management

Excalibur Construction

Rocky Mountain

Farmer’s Co-op

Farmer’s Insurance 100

First Federal Bank & Trust

Discount Sports

3 & 13

Exteriors

Roosters

SAGE Community Arts

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First Interstate Bank

Sheridan College

Fly Sheridan

Sheridan County

Fly Shop of the Bighorns

Good Health Market

H&R Block

Heritage Woodworks

Holiday Inn/Fairfield Inn & Suites

Rocky Mountain

Gary McCoy

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Sheridan Stationery

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Chamber of Commerce 85 Sheridan County

Sugarland Walk-in Clinic 81 Swan Land Company

Tegeler & Associates

The Bates Team

The Brinton Museum

The Clothing Company & Baby Too

The Design Center

The Powder Horn

The Sheridan Press 17, 37, 96 & 101 The Sports Lure

Thompson Master Masons

Tru Finish Concrete

Turned Antiques

Valley Motor Honda

Water Products, Inc.

Westview Health Care Center

Winchester Steak House 71 Wind River Hotel & Casino

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Wyoming Audiology 65

& Hearing Center

Sheridan Floor to Ceiling 87

Implement

Wyoming Insulation

Sheridan Motor

WYO Theater

Sheridan Orthopaedic

WyoVision 56

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WWW.DESTINATIONSHERIDAN.COM

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