COLORADO
About Colorado & News
|
NEWS
Colorado is a four-season destination offering world-class adventure and recreational pursuits, a thriving arts scene, a rich cultural heritage, flavorful cuisine, and renowned ski resort areas. The state's breathtaking natural landscape boasts natural hot springs, thousands of lakes and rivers, ten national parks and monuments, and 54 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet.
For more information or a copy of the Colorado Official State Vacation Guide, call 1-800-COLORADO or visit www.COLORADO.com.
Rocky Mountain National Park: An Unforgettable Daytrip. . . One of the Top Outdoor and Adventure Destinations in the World Just 1.5 Hours from Denver
In 1909, naturalist Enos Mills wrote about the area that is now Rocky Mountain National Park, “In years to come when I am asleep beneath the pines, thousands of families will find rest and hope in this park.” More than a century later, his prediction has come true – and then some. Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is the most popular attraction in Colorado, drawing three million annual visitors to its 416 square miles of mountain beauty. The wilderness area includes 359 miles of hiking trails, 150 lakes, 60 mountains taller than 12,000 feet, and the opportunity to see elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. In 2010, Trip Advisor named the park the number two outdoor and adventure destination in the world, falling just behind Queenstown, New Zealand.
RMNP stands out, among many other reasons, from other outdoor destinations due to its accessibility. Just 71 miles from Denver, the park is a memorable summer daytrip – and at $20 per automobile per day, it’s also a very affordable one.
SCENIC DRIVES
Trail Ridge Road – The highest continuous motorway in the United States climbs to a maximum elevation of 12,183 feet, with more than eight miles snaking across tundra, high above the treeline at 11,000 feet. The views throughout the drive are incomparable: At Milner Pass, motorists cross the Continental Divide.
Old Fall River Road – Completed in 1920, this road was the first to cross the Rocky Mountains. The drive winds past the stunning Endovalley Overlook (with impressive views of Deer Mountain) and the beautiful 25-foot Chasm Falls, ending at Chaplin Creek Trailhead, 10,640 feet above sea level.
Highway 36 – The drive up Highway 36 to the park is a magnificent scenic drive in itself. Motorists pass the towns of Boulder and Lyons, striking red sandstone rock formations, and the natural beauty of Roosevelt National Forest.
FAMILY FRIENDLY HIKES & ACTIVITIES
Bear Lake Loop – The flat, half-mile interpretive nature trail that circles scenic Bear Lake is great for younger kids, offering the chance to see deer and gorgeous views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.
Coyote Valley – This easy, one-mile trail follows the bank of the Upper Colorado River, where thousands of colorful wildflowers bloom in the summer and moose are often spotted during the morning and early evening hours.
Horseback Riding – Experience the high country the old fashioned way – atop a horse. This is a wonderful way for older children to see more alpine country than possible on foot.
Fishing – Fishing was a popular pastime with early visitors to the Park, and it remains so today, with anglers catching several types of trout – brown, brook, rainbow, and cutthroat – in 150 lakes.
Note: A valid Colorado fishing license is required for all persons 16 years of age or older to fish in Rocky Mountain National Park. For current Colorado fishing license fees visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife website.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
Elk – The park is home to an elk herd numbering more than 3,000, so these majestic creatures are among the most-easily-seen wildlife. Look for elk in meadows and any spot where meadow and forest meet. Elk spend much of their time at or above treeline during the summer, moving to lower elevations in the fall, winter and spring.
Bighorn Sheep – After facing near extinction last century, the bighorn sheep population is currently thriving– there are roughly 800 of these striking animals in the park. Look for them at the aptly named Sheep Lakes from May through mid-August, where the bighorns descend to eat soil and obtain minerals not found in their high mountain habitat. Their visits generally occur between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Moose – The moose is a naturally shy creature, but sightings occur almost daily in the summer along the banks of the Upper Colorado River in the Kawuneeche Valley. Enjoy the moose at a distance...give these magnificent animals plenty of room to roam without human interference.
Birdwatching – Nearly 300 species of birds have been documented in the Park and surrounding areas, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Specialty species unique to mountain habitats include White-tailed Ptarmigan, Blue Grouse, Gray Jay, Clark’s Nutcracker, Williamson’s Sapsucker, Three-toed Woodpecker, and the Mountain Chickadee.
ASPEN
Aspen Is Great!
If you haven't been to Aspen yet, plan on going soon. You won't be disappointed. It's a mountain town like no other and flourishes year-round. While the Aspen name is well known, there are many untold stories. It offers a unique vacation of adventure by day and luxury by night. Its arts and cultural calendar rivals that of a big city, and Aspen offers unique learning vacations for children and adults. Summer weather offers warm days and cool evenings, making it ideal for a romantic getaway or honeymoon; a family vacation, or a corporate retreat.
It's a historical fact that Aspen boasted one of the largest silver veins the world has ever known, and the largest nugget of pure silver ever mined (2,350 lbs) was extracted from the Smuggler Mine right in Aspen. Rugged miners spent their days scouring the insides of the surrounding hills and their nights bellied up to the J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome, which remains today as one of Aspen's favorite bars.
With peaks over 14,000 feet, you can hike in the morning and then relax at the new Remede Spa at the St. Regis Resort in the evening. Or paraglide over Aspen Mountain, relax with a picnic at the famed maroon Bells, and stay at the five star Little Nell hotel, a historical bed and breakfast, or a luxury home fit for a Hollywood celebrity. Also, Aspen Expeditions is offering new guided tours in the Aspen area, including the moderate "Tour des Belles Bordeaux," a hike around the spectacular Maroon Bells, or the more difficult "Seven Summits," a take on the classic seven summits of the world, incorporating the classic 14ers in the Aspen area's Elk Mountain Range.
Want more? Largely unknown as a mountain biking destination, there is huge diversity of the biking terrain, from the moderate Hunter Creek Valley single track to Government Trail to Hay Park or Richmond Ridge. From beginner to expert, Aspen's biking terrain has been called the best by Chris Carmichael, Lance Armstrong's coach.
Aspen is also known as the intellectual and cultural capital, making it a playground for the mind and body. Summer brings a diverse mix of cultural events and festivals, along with classical music offerings by the Aspen Music Festival and School. And, if you love to eat, Aspen has more than 80 restaurants with choices from moutain picnics, to lively sushi bars and elegant restaurants. Some of the newest additions here are D-19 and the Wine Spot. The annual Food & Wine Magazine Classic at Aspen locks off a summer of culinary offerings (June), and Aspen leads the organic food trent with the Healthy Gourmet Festival held in July. The Aspen Saturday Market displays organic produce and meals every Saturday from mid-June through October.
For more information, contact web site www.aspenchamber.org.
COLORADO SPRINGS
Where to Stay
Broadmoor's Penrose Room Earns Top Honors from AAA
Penrose Room, at the historic BROADMOOR, has become Colorado's first dining establishment to achieve one of the restaurant industry's top distinctions: the AAA Five-Diamond Award. Penrose Room in Colorado Springs joins an exclusive club of 60 restaurants chosen from more than 60,000 AAA-rated restaurants and hotels across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Penrose Room offers an experience unlike any other from its unique vantage point atop The BROADMOOR's South Tower. With classic fine dining, an extensive European wine list and live entertainment and dancing in a stylish atmosphere, dinner at Penrose Room is truly an event. General Manager Duane Thompson orchestrates the dining room and service masterfully, while Executive Chef Bertrand Bouquin exquisitely prepares the cuisine. Both infuse classic hospitality and contemporary vitality into every detail.
For more information on The BROADMOOR, please call 800-634-7711 or visit www.broadmoor.com.
Broadmoor's Celebrated Golden Bee Introduces a New Menu of Traditional English Pub Fare with a Contemporary Twist
The BROADMOOR'S own authentic English pub, the Golden Bee, introduces an imaginative new menu featuring updated versions of classic pub fare. The Golden Bee has been a longtime favorite and a must-visit at the historic BROADMOOR, and the new menu aims to continue the tradition of fine dining that is evident at all venues on the property.
To start with the Bee offers a host of Innkeeper's Appetizer selections, which include South Shore Fish Chowder and Malt Vinegar Pub Chips with Welsh Rarebit Cheese Dip. Pub Selections include options such as The Piccadilly Reuben and Chaucer's Cornish Pasty. There are also four Golden Bee Pies available, including a Shepherd's Pie with Tender Lamb and Cheddar Mashed Potatoes; a Chicken and Dumpling Pie; a Steak and Mushroom Pie, and a Potted Shrimp, Scallops and Salmon Pie-all are served in distinctive Staub cassoulets. Golden Bee Favorites include The Bee's Fish and Chips and English-Cut Mustard Crusted Roast Beef. Desserts include a Golden Raisin Bread Pudding with Warm Whiskey Sauce and an English Sherry Trifle. The Bee's beer and ale selection is equally as impressive and is highlighted by a selection of English ales-served in the patron's choice of stein, pint, half-yard, and yard.
The Golden Bee originally came to The BROADMOOR in 1961 as a collection of panels and fixtures of an entire 19th-century pub that were shipped from England and reassembled in Colorado Springs˜a town once nicknamed 'Little London.' Celebrated as a unique dining adventure, the Golden Bee offers wonderful pub-fare and plenty of English charm. A ragtime piano player tickles the keys to a repertoire of sing-a-long songs, and the ale is served in yards. The Golden Bee's atmosphere exudes a feeling of warmth and friendliness, as is noted by the locals who fondly refer to their favorite gathering spot as 'The Bee.'
The Golden Bee is located on the ground floor of The BROADMOOR's International Center and is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. For reservations, please call (800) 634-7711 or (719) 577-5733.
For more information on The BROADMOOR, please call 800.634.7711 or visit www.broadmoor.com.
What to See & Do
“MOMA of the Mountains” Opens In Colorado
The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center (FAC) is now opened to the public after a $28.4 million transformation which brings blockbuster exhibitions to the area and allow the FAC’s sizable permanent collection to be on display like never before.
The two-story, 48,000 square-foot expansion, conceived by award-winning architect David Owen Tryba, was designed to compliment the original 1936 John Gaw Meem building, which has housed the FAC for the past 70 years and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The new museum, which Tryba characterizes as “our finest achievement,” features nine permanent collection galleries, two traveling exhibition galleries, and an unprecedented tactile gallery; the renovated SaGÇJi Theatre with its state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems and a dedicated rehearsal studio; two museum gift shops; seven new art studios and interactive spaces at the Bemis Art School; and a unique courtyard to display outdoor sculpture and hold special events.
Upcoming Traveling Exhibitions
The Permanent Collection
The FAC’s permanent collection features one of the largest compilations of Native American and Southwestern Art in the country, as well as a $2 million dollar collection of Dale Chihuly glass, considered to be one of the largest in the world. The grand opening marks the first time in FAC history that selections from all areas of the collection – American, Native American, and Latin American art; much of which has been unseen for years – will be exhibited simultaneously. The FAC’s permanent collection also features a wide array of American art by John Singer Sargent, Arthur Dove, Georgia O’Keeffe, Walt Kuhn, John James Audubon, Robert Motherwell, Paul Cadmus and others.
The first-level of the new FAC features seven galleries dedicated to displaying works from the permanent collection:
· Colorado Sublime | Blessing Family Gallery
Colorado Sublime features an unrivaled historic collection of 19th and early 20th century paintings inspired by our unique Rocky Mountain landscape.
· Looking Forward/Looking Back | Sallie E. Duff Gallery
The work in this gallery spans the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when American artists held fast to purely American subject matter but began to adopt new painting techniques derived from European precedents, especially Impressionism. Recognizable American personalities like Martha Graham and Elsie Palmer, places like Garden of the Gods, and scenes of American labor and spirituality were rendered with vibrant colors and ever-loosening brushstrokes. Many of these paintings were created by artists of the Broadmoor Academy which flourished in Colorado Springs from 1919 to 1945 and was an important cultural center in the Rocky Mountain West.
· Transfixed: Photography from the Permanent Collection | Marguerite and Otto Manley Gallery
Transfixed features early 20th century photographers such as Colorado Springs’s own Laura Gilpin who helped to secure photography’s place among the finest of traditional art forms like painting, while today’s photographers such as Gus Foster continue to expand photography’s boundaries through their large, bold images.
· Modern America | Loo Family Gallery
Modern America features works of the early 1900s from artists such as John Marin, Arthur Dove, and Marsden Hartley. While early 20th century Modern artists kept one foot in recognizable images, the exhibition also features later artists such as Richard Diebenkorn and Robert Motherwell who took their paintings a bold step further into pure abstraction by eliminating identifiable objects and scenes in favor of shapes and colors that they believed could inspire pure emotional response in the viewer. In much of today’s art, the concept, or idea is just as important as the art’s visual attributes.
· Arte Americas: Selections from the Hispanic Collection | The Donald C. and Elizabeth M. Dickinson Foundation Gallery
Works by some of the most vibrant and eloquent artistic voices in Hispanic America are featured in this gallery. This talented group of artists explores issues of race, religion, politics, and popular culture. Arte Americas reflects the rich art and cultural diversity that exists in the Western hemisphere.
· Inspired by Tradition: Native American Art and Dale Chihuly | Lane Family Gallery
Dale Chihuly’s breathtaking work of Chandeliers, Persians and Macchias enliven spaces all over the world. The development of his creative process and complex technique began with works such as his famous Navajo Cylinders and Basket series. This presentation highlights those seminal works inspired by Native American art, specifically Native American textiles and basketry.
· Colorado Artists | East Events Gallery
Colorado Artists is a bold selection of paintings by renowned Colorado artists such as Floyd Tunson, Tony Ortega and Chuck Forsman demonstrating the FAC’s commitment to the great artistic production of the Rocky Mountain region.
About the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
Founded in 1936, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is a privately funded, non-profit art museum, performing arts theatre, and arts education center. It will re-open its doors for an “Extremely Grand Opening” celebration (Aug. 2 - 5, 2007) to reveal a $28.4 million transformation. The two-story, 48,000 square-foot expansion, conceived and designed by award-winning architect and Colorado Springs native David Owen Tryba, was designed to complement the original 1936 John Gaw Meem building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
For more information, visit www.csfineartscenter.org
DENVER
About VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau
Celebrating more than 100 years of promoting the Mile High City, VISIT DENVER is a nonprofit trade association that contracts with the City of Denver to market Denver as a convention and leisure destination, increasing economic development in the city, creating jobs and generating taxes. Tourism is the second largest industry in Denver, generating $2.8 billion in annual spending in 2009, while supporting nearly 50,000 jobs. Learn more about Denver at VISITDENVER.com, on Twitter @VisitDenver and Facebook.com/VisitDenver, or by phone at 800 2 DENVER.
Where to Stay
Hyatt Regency Denver Invites Visitors to Experience the
New Clyfford Still Museum with Value Added Overnight Package
Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center, as a preferred hotel of the soon-to-open Clyfford Still Museum, is pleased to be one of the only hotels in the United States to present a Clyfford Still Museum Package. The value-added getaway, which provides ease in visiting Denver’s newest world-class cultural attraction, includes:
An overnight accommodation at the 4-Diamond award winning hotel
Two adult admissions to the Clyfford Still Museum
Two cocktails in Peaks Lounge, located on the hotel’s 27th floor
Clyfford Still Museum, houses 94% of the artist’s works making it the only display of its kind in the world. It is a short eight block scenic stroll from Hyatt Regency Denver, past the State Capitol through Civic Center Park.
In addition to two admissions to the museum, Hyatt Regency Denver’s overnight package also includes two cocktails in Peaks Lounge. Peaks Lounge is windowed on three sides, making the outdoor cityscape and view of the rugged Rocky Mountains key in its overall ambiance. Hyatt director of food and beverage, James Kratofil, commented: “Peaks really delivers Denver. With the opening of the Clyfford Still Museum the only attraction of its kind, we are anticipating a lot of visitors. This is the perfect vantage point for seeing how much the city has to offer.” In addition to serving over 40 wines by the glass and an array of appetizers and desserts, Peaks mixologists create signature cocktails as well. To mark the occasion, they’ve concocted a Chocolate Strawberry Martini, Red Sangria Canvas Merlot and even a 27th Floor Martini of Cognac, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, Bailey’s, Frangelico and Espresso.
Hyatt Regency Denver’s Clyfford Still Museum package starts at $105 per room and is offered through February 28, 2012. Reservations may be made by calling toll-free (800) 233-1234 or by visiting the Special Offers page of DenverRegency.Hyatt.com. Guests may ask for or enter offer code: STILL (subject to availability; other restrictions may apply).
An Experience Unlike Any Other in The World.
Clyfford Still is considered one of the most important and significant American artists of the 20th century. He originated the Abstract Expressionist movement and influenced the work of contemporaries such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko. Few artists of this magnitude have left behind such a comprehensive and mysterious collection of work. And never before has the world seen such a collection of work displayed intact, and under one roof. The Clyfford Still Museum provides visitors with an unprecedented opportunity to view and appreciate Still's extraordinary art and life. The size and significance of the collection, coupled with the extraordinary building design, makes this museum unlike any other. More information on the museum may be found by visiting ClyffordStillMuseum.org.
About Hyatt Regency Denver
Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center is one of the region’s largest hotels. Having opened just six years ago, it is sleek and contemporary in design and is located in the heart of the Mile High City, just one block from the 16th Street Mall pedestrian promenade and Denver Center Theatre District and adjacent to the Colorado Convention Center. All 1,100 accommodations are ultra-modern and each features the Hyatt Grand Bed, an LCD flat screened television and a host of amenities. A 1820 square foot state-of-the-art fitness center is further enhanced by the Spa Universaire, an indoor lap-pool and outdoor, sun deck whirlpool. In addition to Altitude Restaurant, Hyatt Regency Denver provides two lounges: Strata Bar located in the lobby and the 27th floor Peaks Lounge overlooking the Mile High City. The hotel features over 60,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space.
What to See & Do
Denver Hosts Blockbuster Lineup
The Mile High City lives up to its altitudinal moniker with some of the largest and most prestigious events, exhibitions and adventures in the Western Hemisphere.
World-class Dining
With Denver chefs earning national acclaim (six were nominated for James Beard House Foundation Awards – the “Oscars of Food” – this year), dining in Denver has never been better. In the summer, foodies relax on patios boasting panoramic views of the skyline, sampling classic Colorado cuisine or bold flavor fusions, created using market-fresh produce, artisan cheeses and free-range meats from all over the state. VisitDenver.com/dining-nightlife
Ride the rails Old West-style on the Georgetown Loop Railroad (georgetownlooprr.com);
Get plenty of thrills at Elitch Gardens, Denver’s downtown amusement and water park, featuring more than 45 rides (elitchgardens.com);
Drive Mt. Evans Highway, the highest paved auto road in North America, with a 14,260-foot (4,346 m) summit amidst gorgeous wildflower displays (mountevans.com); Raft the wild whitewater in Clear Creek Canyon (just a half-hour from Denver) and be back in the city in time for dinner (clearcreekrafting.com);
Rock out under the stars with the biggest names in music at Red Rocks Amphitheatre (everyone from the Beatles to U2 have played here), a one-of-a-kind venue surrounded by 300-foot-tall monolithic red sandstone monuments (redrocksonline.com);
Go underwater with polar bears or eyeball-to-eyeball with a gorilla at the Denver Zoo (denverzoo.org)
Cheer on Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies as they vie for their first World Series Championship at Coors Field, a downtown stadium that combines state-of-the-art technology with the nostalgic feel of a classic ballpark (coloradorockies.com);
Discover the spectacular scenic beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park (just 71 miles from Denver), where more than 350 miles of trails meander to valleys of wildflowers, waterfalls, alpine lakes and craggy, snowcapped peaks (nps.gov/romo).
Denver's Village of Georgetown
The Village of Georgetown has over 200 restored Victorian buildings and a delightful main street lined with antique stores and shops. Nearby Silver Plume offers an authentic old west mining town. Both towns are surrounded by aspen groves. More spectacular aspens can be found by heading from Georgetown up Guanella Pass, which twists its way up to 11,669 feet above sea level.
For more information about the Georgetown Loop, visit www.georgetownlooprr.com. For more information on Denver visit www.denver.org.
Grand Hyatt Denver Downtown and the Denver Post Create A Micro Brew Walking Tour of Downtown Denver
Just in time for baseball season, The Denver Post’s Dick Kreck and the Grand Hyatt Denver downtown, located at 1750 Welton Street, have teamed to create a self-guided Micro Brew Walking Tour package of the Mile High City. This beer tasting tour includes an overnight accommodation at the Grand Hyatt featuring The Grand Bed, a $10 discount with the purchase of two lunch or dinner entrees at the Grand Hyatt’s restaurant, 1876 and special premiums at six of Colorado’s best brew pubs:
- A Free Flight of Beer Taster at Breckenridge Brewery
- Two Complimentary Pints of Beer at the Denver ChopHouse & Brewery
- Free Tour and Tasting at Flying Dog Brewery
- One Free Flight of Beer and a 20% Discount on Beer and Gear at Great Divide Brewing Company
- Two Complimentary Pints of Beer at Rock Bottom Brewery
- Two Fresh Complimentary Beers at Wynkoop Brewing Company.
This value-packed package starts at $139 (plus tax; subject to availability) and is offered weekends throughout the year. Grand Hyatt Denver is located in the heart of the “Mile High City” and offers the most spacious accommodations in the region. Guests arriving at the hotel are greeted with a lobby complemented by a 20-foot sandstone fireplace. The Colorado theme carries into the restaurant, 1876, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Regional fare is a specialty in the evening and themed luncheon buffets are offered
weekdays in addition to its regular menu.
Reservations for Micro Brew Walking Tour may be made by calling 1-800-233-1234, or by visiting granddenver.Hyatt.com and requesting offer code BREW or by contacting a travel planner.
DUNTON HOT SPRINGS
About Dunton Hot Springs
Opened in 2001, Dunton Hot Springs resort is a restored ghost town set in an extraordinary alpine valley. The town's original 19th-century "Wild West" log cabins have been transformed into 12 romantic and luxurious accommodations. Its spa is fed by natural mineral hot springs that have been curing body and soul for centuries, ideal for de-stressing from the myriad activities available to guests. And the town's old saloon is now a world-class restaurant serving organic fare paired with award-winning wines produced by the resort's own Sutcliffe Vineyards.
For more information on Dunton Hot Springs, visit www.duntonhotsprings.com.
DURANGO
What to See & Do
Colorado Premier Training Opens Wind Tunnel Testing Facility
Colorado Premier Training (CPT) has opened its own wind tunnel testing facility in Fort Collins, Colorado USA. By measuring wind drag, power output and heart rate simultaneously, CPT can accurately determine the most optimal body position for each athlete, thereby offering Position OptimizationTM Coaching Services.
Colorado Premier Training has also launched a new web site, designed to enhance the experience of its clients and to provide more informative content to its visitors. CPT has also recently announced a new partnership with renowned coach, Rick Crawford. To catch up on all the exciting news at CPT, go to www.coloradopremiertraining.com
Colorado Premier Training is based in Durango, Colorado USA. For more information go to www.coloradopremiertraining.com or call (970) 672-4780.
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Where to Stay
American Lodge & Suites at the Caverns
The new 73-room AmericInn at Glenwood Caverns hotel is located at the base of Iron Mountain Tramway which leads to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The exterior is well-appointed with log and stone fascia and rustic timbers. It also features an indoor pool with a three-story water slide. Their motto is "quiet nights, rest assured".
What to See & Do
Ride the Waves at the Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park -- Now Open to Paddlers -- Water features allow for kayaking nearly year round, as well as other river recreation
Several years in the making, the Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park has begun welcoming paddlers to its exciting waves and mild pools.
The $900,000 whitewater park, designed by Glenwood Springsˆbased RiverRestoration.org, is located on the Colorado River just upstream from the Midland Avenue bridge and I-70‚s Exit 114 in West Glenwood Springs. Because this section of the Colorado River has unusually high water flows, the park has the potential to be used well after the typical kayaking season.
The whitewater park is designed for the varying levels of river flow that occur naturally throughout the year. A 'standing wave' will occur during low, medium and high river flows, due to artificial boulders located at different places in the park. This is done to create a unique experience on any given day. The only time the park may not have a standing wave is when spring runoff peaks and the main water features may be totally submerged.
Also at the park are learning pools and multiple eddies, which will allow kayakers to enter the standing waves over and over again, and will also allow novice paddlers to practice their ferrying and rolling skills.
Rafters, surfers, boaters and folks who just want to cool off in an innertube are also welcome to play in the whitewater park. Life jackets are required and helmets are recommended for all users. The calm eddies are ideal for fly fishing when not occupied by boaters. Currently, boaters are parking on the shoulder along Devereux Road, which runs parallel to the Colorado River. An off-street, 25-space parking lot is the next priority in order to accommodate the high amount of traffic anticipated this summer.
For more information about the Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park, visit www.glenwoodwhitewaterpark.org
About Glenwood Springs
For more information and reservations: 970-945-6589, 888 4 GLENWOOD (888-445-3696) or www.visitglenwood.com. Glenwood Springs is located between Aspen and Vail, 160 miles west of Denver or 90 miles east of Grand Junction on Interstate 70 off exit 116. Many cities provide direct air service into Vail/Eagle County Regional Airport 30 miles to the east and Aspen Airport 40 miles to the south.
Glenwood Springs Offers Plenty to Do
Now in its fourth season, the market takes place at downtown's Centennial Park at 9th Street and Grand Avenue. Locally grown produce for sale include Palisade peaches, Olathe corn and Delta tomatoes, plus home-baked breads and fresh-cut flowers. The 8th Street Deli and Andy's Catering serve hot food throughout the season, and Hungry Mother Organic Foods and Woody Creek Cellars winery sell their wares. Local artisans and crafters feature jewelry, clothing and home decor.
For more information about the Glenwood Springs Downtown Market, visit www.glenwoodmarket.com.
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
You and your family will enjoy spectacular views while riding the Iron Mountain Tramway. Take a guided walking tour of the Glenwood Caverns where you will see amazing formations. Play on the new thrill rides – Alpine Coaster, Zip line, Giant Swing and 35-foot climbing wall. Exclamation Point Restaurant and Bar serves lunch in the cozy comfort of a Colorado rustic interior or al fresco on expansive viewing decks.
Open year round, the Winter Hours are:
Park Hours: Park & Attractions: 10 am - 5 pm, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun
Park Attractions: 10 am - 5 pm, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cave Tour: 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun
Wild Tour: Saturday. 10:30 a.m. by reservation only
Adventure Tour: Saturday 10:30 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. by reservation only
Park Hours: Park: 10 am - 6 pm, Daily
Park Attractions: 10:00 am - 6 pm, Daily
Exclamation Point:
• Open 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 pm.
Cave Tours:
• 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Daily, every hour
• Wild Tours & Adventure Tours available Wed., Saturday & Sunday (reservations required)
• 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Only one tour per time slot.
Horseback Riding
Dinner Show
Remember, the tram ride takes about 10 minutes, and there may be a line, so allow yourself plenty of time to get to the top.
*For more information, visit www.glenwoodcaverns.com or contact the business office at (970) 945-4228 x11 or call 1-800-530-1635 x11
Segway Tours
Why walk around town when you can ride a cool Segway? Sacred Grounds Coffeehouse & Delicatessen rents Segways for two hour intervals for $70.00 per person. Price includes operating instructions. 725 Grand Avenue.
For reservations, call 970-928-8804.
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park Offers Mechanical Bull Ride
Demon, the park's new mechanical bull ride, bucked his way to the top of Iron Mountain. Riders can choose the intensity of their ride on the bull, from mild to wild. The cost is $3 for one ride, $5 for two rides, and $7, or one token, for three rides.
For more information, contact Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road, 970-945-4CAV (945-4228) or 800-530-1635, or check web site www.glenwoodcaverns.com
Glenwood Meadows New Shopping and Dining
A brand new shopping experience has arrived. Dining options include Chili's Bar & Grill, Moe's Southwestern Grill, Magoo's Bar and Grill, Smoothie King and Russo's Pizza. Retailers include chain stores such as Pier One Imports, Target, Lowe's Home Improvement Center, Bed Bath & Beyond, PetCo, Sports Authority, and Vitamin Cottage. Glenwood Meadows also features smaller, boutique type shops, such as Passion for Picnics, Gracy's and Red Mountain Wine.
GUNNISON-CRESTED BUTTE
About Gunnison-Crested Butte
Gunnison-Crested Butte is nestled among almost two million acres of pristine wilderness in southwest Colorado. Winter sports enthusiasts know the area for its world-class alpine skiing and snowboarding at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing. Gunnison-Crested Butte is also a haven for outdoor summer activities. In the warmer months, visitors can choose from recreational activities such as hiking, climbing, mountain biking, boating, whitewater rafting, kayaking, fly-fishing, camping and horseback riding. Year-round visitors enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops and stimulating cultural opportunities, and have a wide range of lodging options — from rustic inns to guest cabins and bed-and-breakfasts to full-service resort hotels.
Recognized as the “Official Wildflower Capital of Colorado” by the Colorado Legislature and one of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s “Dozen Distinctive Destinations” in 2008, Crested Butte is the site of rich mining, ranching and skiing heritage and home to the Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum and Mountain Bike Hall of Fame. Only three miles up the road is the resort village of Mt. Crested Butte, home to the ski area, an active base area, the area’s conference center, and outstanding hiking and biking trails.
Gunnison, a real western town located 28 miles from Crested Butte, is home to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport, Gunnison Whitewater Park, Gunnison Valley Observatory, Pioneer Museum and Western State College, a four-year institution offering majors in the liberal arts and sciences and professional fields. Both Crested Butte and Gunnison have thriving historic central business districts packed with shopping and dining opportunities.
In Gunnison County, visitors will find the Curecanti National Recreation Area, where dinosaur fossils were recently discovered; the Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado’s largest body of water and home to the largest Kokanee salmon fishery in the United States; and The Black Canyon of the Gunnison, one of our country’s newest national parks. Gunnison County includes the quaint and historic towns of Pitkin, Gothic, Tin Cup, Marble, Powderhorn, Almont and Crystal, plus the better-known communities of Gunnison, Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. Gunnison County is part of the West Elk Loop and Silver Thread Scenic & Historic Byways.
What to See & Do
Magical Moments in Gunnison-Crested Butte, Events for the whole family, great vacation packages and more are a reason to vacation here
A snowy mountain backdrop, lots of good cheer, and plenty of fun activities for all ages combine to create magical moments in Gunnison-Crested Butte, Colo. The winter sports kick off with Crested Butte Nordic Center and Crested Butte Mountain Resort.
JANUARY 2012
Every Second Night is Half Off at Elevation Hotel & Spa located slopeside at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Book one night, get the next at half off (price is subject to availability). This offer is good for travel through Jan. 28, 2012 and cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid only on new reservations. For more information visit www.skicb.com/specials or call Crested Butte Vacations at (800) 600-2803.
Visitor Information & Personalized Vacation Packages
To find out more, call the Gunnison-Crested Butte Tourism Association’s toll-free line, (800) 814-8893, or visit www.GunnisonCrestedButte.com. Find the Tourism Association on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gcbta or follow on www.twitter.com/gcbta. The Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is served year-round by United Airlines and during the winter season by American Airlines and Continental Airlines. Crested Butte Mountain Resort is open with free skiing to honor its 50th birthday. There are incredible early-season deals and the chance to win a free trip on www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com to get the snow party rolling.
In Gunnison County, visitors will find the Curecanti National Recreation Area, where dinosaur fossils were recently discovered; the Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado’s largest body of water and home to the largest Kokanee salmon fishery in the United States; and The Black Canyon of the Gunnison, one of our country’s newest national parks. Gunnison County includes the quaint and historic towns of Pitkin, Gothic, Tin Cup, Powderhorn, Almont and Crystal, plus the better-known communities of Gunnison, Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte. Gunnison County is part of the West Elk Loop and Silver Thread Scenic & Historic Byways.
Explore Fall Colors on Stunning Outings in Gunnison County, Great autumn deals & drives abound in the Rockies
The mountain ranges surrounding the Gunnison-Crested Butte Valley will remind you of an artist’s autumn palette, with brushstrokes of gold, orange and crimson evident at every turn in September and early October. Known for the largest, most spectacular aspen grove in the United States, the area offers eye-popping vistas.
Or get surrounded by fall foliage on foot by hiking one of the great trails off Kebler Pass Road, mountain biking Trail 401 or one of the area’s other classic routes, and going on a trail ride through the forests with Fantasy Ranch Horseback Adventures or Tenderfoot Outfitters. Crested Butte Mountain Guides and Colorado Backcountry can help you hit the trail on bike or foot.
FALL DRIVE ROUTES
Ohio Creek Road to Kebler Pass
From just north of Gunnison on Colorado Highway 135, take a left on Ohio Creek Road (look for signs). About 12 miles up the Ohio Creek Valley, near a series of ranch buildings that mark the abandoned site of Castleton, travelers will see the spires of “the Castles.” These are erosion remnants carved out of volcanic debris that erupted from the West Elk Volcano, now extinct. Continuing on, look for a fine view of the Anthracite Range. Near the end of Ohio Creek Road is the intersection with Kebler Pass Road (County Road 12). At that junction, you can head west towards Colorado Highway 133, where southbound goes toward Paonia or northbound to Paonia Dam and Redstone over breathtaking McClure Pass, a popular route to Aspen. Heading east on Kebler Pass Road, you’ll come to Crested Butte, with the eighth largest National Historic District in Colorado. Before heading to Crested Butte, take a short detour and go north to the beautiful Lake Irwin.
Kebler Pass to Marble & Crystal River Valley
Going north out of Crested Butte on Whiterock Avenue, the road turns into County Road 12, a well-maintained, hard-surface dirt and gravel road. A stop across the road from Horse Ranch Park provides one of the most scenic landscapes of the Anthracite Mountain Range and a predictable pocket of red amongst the expanse of gold and yellow. Continuing on through the West Elk Mountains, which has been called “the closest you can come to a wilderness experience in a passenger car,” you will pass by the scenic vista of the largest aspen grove in the United States. After a total of 30 miles from Crested Butte and at the intersection of Highway 133, go right and travel along the Paonia Reservoir and over McClure Pass. After the right turn onto Highway 133 and another turn on County Road 3, it is approximately 27 miles to Marble, a historic mining town that is like a step back in time.
West Elk Loop Scenic & Historic Byway
From Gunnison, the byway heads north on Highway 135 to Crested Butte, continues on Kebler Pass Road (also County Road 12, take Whiterock Avenue out of town), which is a gravel road and a popular fair-weather route to Aspen. Kebler Pass Road links with Highway 133 near Paonia Dam. At this point, travelers can complete the loop back around to Gunnison by going south on the West Elk Loop Byway (Highway 133) and going east on Highway 92 toward Blue Mesa Reservoir, traveling through Somerset, Bowie, Hotchkiss, Crawford and the north rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. At the junction of Highway 92 and Highway 50, going east takes you back to Gunnison along 23 miles of Blue Mesa Reservoir and Curecanti National Recreation Area. West on Highway 50 leads to the main south entrance of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Montrose.
AutoWeek deemed the drive from Hotchkiss to Gunnison and Crested Butte one of their eight favorite Great American Roads. An “Experience the West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway” brochure is available at visitor centers along the route.
Almont to Various Scenic Routes
Between the towns of Gunnison and Crested Butte on Highway 135 is Almont, where the Taylor and East Rivers meet to create the Gunnison River. From Gunnison, go east at Almont on Taylor Canyon Road to Taylor Park Dam and Reservoir. From here travelers have three choices: 1.) Go east on Cottonwood Pass to Buena Vista; 2.) Go north and loop back to Almont on Spring Creek Road; or 3.) Go southeast through one of the richest gold strike areas in Gunnison County traveling through Tin Cup, over Cumberland Pass, and through Pitkin, Ohio City and Parlin before reaching Gunnison.
Enjoy all of the benefits of Harmel’s Ranch Resort near Almont, Colorado, and stay in one of the Hitchn’ Post Lodge’s eight motel-style rooms, each with one queen bed and one double bed from only $110 per night for up to four people per room. This late-season Hitchn’ Post Package is available Aug. 16 – Sept. 17. The package includes a hearty breakfast buffet, private fishing permit, stocked rainbow trout pond, and numerous other amenities. Horseback riding, guided fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, ziplining and massages can be added for an extra cost. Offer is based on availability and does not include tax/service fee. Book by calling (800) 235-3402, and also visit www.harmels.com.
Biking is Key to Karma in Gunnison-Crested Butte
The year 2011 promises to be one of the most exciting seasons of biking that Gunnison County has ever witnessed. Not only has the Gunnison-Crested Butte Valley been selected for a stage finish and a stage start for the first-ever USA Pro Cycling Challenge, Crested Butte is one of three stops on the new Leadville 100 Qualifying Series and is the start for Ride the Rockies, which has chosen Crested Butte or Gunnison as one of its stops 12 times since 1987.
That’s only the tip of the iceberg. There are mountain bike races and rides galore, the 31st annual Fat Tire Bike Week (the world’s oldest mountain bike festival), downhill and cross-country racing, a 24-hour cruiser bike tour, and the 35th annual Pearl Pass Mountain Bike Tour from Crested Butte to Aspen. Plus, there are new trails to explore.
Biking is a way of life here, whether it’s on skinny tires, fat tires or a bike with one gear. Since the 1970s, when locals started retrofitting old Schwinn paperboy bikes with multiple gears, Crested Butte has helped write the history of mountain biking and is now home to the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.
Crested Butte Mountain Resort is introducing the new Gold Link Terrain Park and Superpipe for the 2011 season. By relocating the resort’s largest park and pipe from the Paradise Bowl, crews have created a complete freestyle park pod off the Painter Boy and Goldlink lifts. This translates to a literal playground for park enthusiasts, who can progress from one park and one feature size to the next. Not only does this move create an additional intermediate run under the Paradise lift, crews have gladed Horseshoe Springs to add even more intermediate terrain to the resort’s tally.
Also, the new NASTAR race arena is located on the Canaan trail just above the Paradise Warming House, and the Trailhead Children’s Discovery Museum has relocated to the Outpost Building near the Adventure Center and is now open year-round.
New for the season are a Military Appreciation Week and a College Week in January, plus the Matthew Shepard Gay Ski Week in March. There also will be activities celebrating 50 Years of Skiing in Crested Butte, celebrating the opening of the ski area 50 years ago. In connection with the Matthew Shepard Gay Ski Week, Crested Butte Mountain Theatre and Western State College in Gunnison are collaborating on a staged production of “The Laramie Project,” which is about reactions to the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard. For information about CBMR, go to www.skicb.com.
Experience the West in Gunnison-Crested Butte, Colorado Trail Rides, Guest Ranches & Events Offer Taste of Independent Spirit
With a longtime ranching heritage, laid-back attitude and Colorado’s oldest rodeo, Gunnison County is the West. The only kind of traffic jams you encounter here are cattle drives. In fact, American Cowboy just named Gunnison-Crested Butte one of the “20 Best Places to Live the West.” American Cowboy Publisher Bill Garrels notes, “Whether you’re looking for a new place to settle or the perfect place to vacation, these communities deliver top value in the form of adventure, culture, authenticity, natural beauty and frontier history and tradition.”
To buy a hat or boots to get into the spirit of the place, head straight for The Western World in Gunnison before visiting Pioneer Museum, known for its popular ranching heritage exhibit, 18 out-buildings and train display. There are also dude ranches, trail rides, and cowboy mounted shooting to dig your heels into.
Another option is to take the scenic drive up Highway 135 to Crested Butte and pay a visit to Lazy F Bar Ranch, located approximately 3 miles out Brush Creek Road just south of town. Breakfast and dinner horseback rides, wagon ride dinners, and general horseback riding for any skill level are available. Winter sleigh ride dinners to a rustic 1950s cabin overlooking the East River are popular during snowy months. For more information, call (970) 641-0193 or visit www.lazyfbarranch.com.
Also check out Fantasy Ranch Horseback Adventures, offering horseback outings and wilderness trail rides from its stables in Almont and Mt. Crested Butte. Fantasy Ranch is well known for its trail ride from the Crested Butte area to Aspen. During winter, Fantasy Ranch offers carriage and sleigh rides in downtown Crested Butte. Contact (970) 349-5425 or visit www.fantasyranchoutfitters.com for more information.
For those who prefer a vacation by Colorado’s largest body of water, horses and their owners are welcome at Ferro’s Blue Mesa Ranch Resort in Sapinero, located on Blue Mesa Lake west of Gunnison. Horse owners pay a corral fee and feed cost for their horses, and horses and guides are available for trail rides. Call (970) 641-4671 for more information.
Dude Ranches
For unforgettable guest ranch experiences, visit Waunita Hot Springs Ranch near Gunnison and Harmel’s Ranch Resort near Almont. To reach Waunita Hot Springs Ranch, call (770) 641-1266 or visit www.waunita.com. To reach Harmel’s, call (800) 235-3402 or visit www.harmels.com.
Visitor Information & Personalized Vacation Packages
To find out more about Gunnison-Crested Butte’s calendar of events or to book personalized vacation packages, visit www.GunnisonCrestedButte.com. During summer and fall, air access to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is provided by United Airlines.
SNOWMASS
SNOWMASS - SO FAMOUS, SO POPULAR
Almost everyone's heard of Snowmass, Colorado. It's that family ski mountain near Aspen with all the nice, easy groomers, right? Well, sort of. Snowmass is a thriving year-round community of over 1,800 mountain-loving souls and a ski area so huge it defies belief. With over 3,100 acres, the mountain is larger than the other three Aspen/Snowmass mountains combined.
Stats lovers take note: Snowmass has the longest lift-served vertical rise in the U.S. and was the first in the country to have a lift operated solely by clean, renewable wind power. Chris Davenport, World Extreme Skiing Champion, says, "the fact is, Snowmass has some of the best steeps, cliffs, couloirs, backcountry, terrain parks, and powder anywhere in North America. Like meeting the girl of your dreams, I'll stick with Snowmass forever."
Ninety-five percent of accommodations are ski-in/ski-out, and that means slopeside, not walk 5 blocks through town in ski boots. This convenience is only amplified by the free Snowmass Shuttle which can take you around town any time of day.
Snowmass just has more, from the largest hotel and conference facilities in Pitkin County at the Silvertree Hotel to the biggest hot tub in the valley at the Timberline Condominiums. We've got the only winter zipline in Colorado, and it's a one-of-a-kind ride you won't find anywhere else on earth. From the historic Anderson Ranch Arts Center to the exciting new Base Village project, it's time to take a new look at Snowmass.
There's lots going on in Snowmass this winter. Check web site www.snowmassvillage.com for the latest information.