Ouray, Colo.’s Signature Events Range from Old Fashioned to Quirky

March 9th, 2010

-From Fourth of July to Festivus, Ouray offers unique and fun festivals throughout the year-

Ouray, Colo. (March 9, 2010) — From A (athletic) to Z (zany), Ouray, Colo., hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year that offer the perfect excuse to plan trip to the “Switzerland of America.” Here is a look at what is on Ouray’s fun-filled calendar this year.

TASTE OF OURAY, June 9, 2010: What better way to experience the true flavor of Ouray than with the Taste of Ouray celebration, held every June. Including a tantalizing and delicious sampling of local cuisine, the festival also features music and beverages. The Taste of Ouray is held at the community center.

FOURTH OF JULY, July 4, 2010: One of the most cherished traditions of Ouray’s old fashioned Fourth of July celebration is the water fights on Main Street that grew out of the old mining days of Ouray in the late 1800s. In addition to the water fights, other festivities include: the Firefighters Dance; horse races; a pancake breakfast; “Ourayce” (a 10K walk-run); a patriotic parade; kids games; barbeque; zip line rides; and a Jeep flare parade, followed by fireworks over the city.

50TH ANNUAL ARTIST’S ALPINE HOLIDAY, July 30 – August 7, 2010: This is the 50th anniversary for this celebration that features a number of outstanding events during the nine-day gala. Enjoy the exhibition of the Ouray County Arts Association (OCAA) Permanent collection at the Ridgway Library and other gallery venues, a judge’s workshop, a “Paint-Out” event on Main Street Ouray, Artist’ Demonstrations, Studio/Gallery Tours, and Children’s workshops. Visit http://www.ourayarts.org/aah.html for more information.

MT. SNEFFELS HALF MARATHON & GRILLIN’ CHILLIN’ THRILLIN’ MUSIC AND BREW FEST, August 28, 2010: A challenge followed by a chill session is in store. The Mt. Sneffles Half Marathon, benefiting Mt. Sneffels Educational Foundation, starts at the Ouray Hot Springs Park, winds through the city of Ouray, along the Uncompahgre River Valley, and finishes at the Ridgway Soccer Fields. Visit www.mtsneffels.org to learn more about the Mt. Sneffles Half Marathon events. After your heart-pumping morning run (or fist-pumping shift in the cheering section!) head over to Fellin Park for the Annual Grillin’ Chillin’ Thrillin’ Music and Brew Fest. Enjoy live music, tasty BBQ, cold microbrews from breweries on Colorado’s western slope, and the chance to keep the adrenaline flowing with a thrilling ride on the zip line.

IMOGENE PASS RUN, September 11, 2010: For 37 years, athletes have challenged themselves to a grueling, 17-mile race from Ouray over 13,114-foot Imogene Pass to Telluride. This is one of the premiere mountain races in the country that has grown to include thousands of participants each year. Racers must be 15 years or older, and participants must pre-register to participate. Registration opens on June 1 and fills up fast. Visit www.imogenerun.com to learn more and sign up.

OURAY MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUN & OURAY OKTOBERFEST, October 2, 2010: Cold beers, hot brats and a challenging endurance run. It is all on tap October 2 when Ouray plays host to the Annual La Sportiva Ouray Mountain Trail Run, followed by the annual Ouray Oktoberfest celebration. The 14-mile trail run follows U.S. Forest Service Trails around the historic mining town. Proceeds from the run support local Ouray youth recreational programs and events. After the race, runners may join their friends and family to refuel at the town’s Oktoberfest celebration, which kicks off at 6 p.m. at the Ouray Community Center. The festivities also include the Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing, dancing, door prizes and the popular Museum Quilt Raffle.

FESTIVUS, December 19, 2010: Modeled after the hilarious “Seinfeld” television show, Ouray’s Festivus Street Party includes carols, food, seasonal beverages, bonfires, and, of course (in keeping with the true spirit of Festivus), the “airing of grievances.”

OURAY ICE FESTIVAL, January, MLK Weekend: Each January, world-class athletes converge on Ouray for the Ouray Ice Festival (www.ourayicefestival.com). The festival is held at the Ouray Ice Park (www.ourayicepark.com), the world’s first park dedicated exclusively to ice climbing. The Ouray Ice Festival is arguably the ice climbing community’s favorite gathering of top competitors, spectators and climbing gear manufacturers. It includes professional competitions, ice climbing clinics, slide shows, an outdoor bazaar and gear demos and a silent auction.

BETTY ICE BALL, January: Dedicated exclusively to women, Ouray’s Betty Ice Ball offers half-day ice climbing clinics (at really affordable prices), catered dinners, public events (for guys, too) and networking opportunities. Sponsored by the popular ice climbing gurus, Chicks with Picks, the ball offers novice climbers the chance to dabble in the sport without signing up for one of the longer clinics. Visit www.chickswithpicks.net to learn more.

About Ouray:

Located at 7,700 feet above sea level in southwest Colorado, the National Historic District of Ouray is surrounded on three sides by 13,000-foot peaks, earning it the nickname “The Switzerland of America.” Ouray is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering rock climbing, hiking, four-wheeling and mountain biking in the summer and ice climbing, backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. To learn more about the area log on to www.ouraycolorado.com.

Contacts:

Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, 970.887.2536, gaylene@orecommunications.com

Karen Avery, Ouray Chamber Resort Association, 970.325.4981, boxcanyonlodge@gmail.com

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Winter Park Company Offers Snowcat Skiing Within Hour’s Drive of Denver

February 23rd, 2010

Powder Addiction makes guided skiing, riding accessible

Winter Park, Colo., Feb. 23, 2010 – Guided snowcat skiing and riding now is available within an hour’s drive of Denver, thanks to Powder Addiction, a new outfitter in Winter Park.

Powder Addiction is running trips in the Jones Pass area on Berthoud Pass. All trips leave from the Village at Winter Park, and include transportation to and from the Jones Pass trailhead off U.S. Highway 40, Solomon alpine powder skis, safety gear and lunch. Each adult participant also receives two free beers at the end of the day, compliments of Durango-based Steamworks Brewery.

With 2,600 acres in its operating permit, Powder Addiction’s terrain ranges from 10,500 feet to 12,500 feet in elevation. Each trip averages six to nine runs. The company operates seven days a week, with up to 12 guests per day.

Guests should be of advanced and expert ability, and able to ski in variable snow conditions on a variety of terrain, according to Jamie Wolter, operations manager of Powder Addiction. Groups of individuals who ski at similar levels, or are concerned about holding up other skiers, can rent the entire snowcat for private group tours as well. “Our focus is on providing a tremendous backcountry experience for everyone who can enjoy it, from the tame at heart to those who thrive on adrenal skiing,” says Wolter.

Powder Addiction places priority on safety, according to Wolter. “Most of our skiing happens one at a time for safety reasons,” he explains. One of the guides skis first, and sets boundaries and a meeting spot. Guests follow one at a time, staying close to the line the guide has set. Once all participants are lower on the mountain, the group may ski together before reuniting with the snowcat for a ride back up the mountain.

Rates range from $300/day in low seasons to $350 in high season. The company also offers a “Hot Seat” membership-based pricing program. After joining the program ($100 for the season), members who can take advantage of last-minute availability are eligible for the Hot Seat snowcat rate of $175/day.

In addition, a photographer accompanies each group during the first half of each day. Photos, including slide show options for an iPhone or other mp3 device, are available for purchase.

For more information or to make reservations, contact Powder Addiction at 970-726-5442 or www.powderaddiction.com.

Powder Addiction (www.powderaddiction.com)
Powder Addiction, based in Winter Park, Colo., offers guided snowcat skiing and riding in the Jones Pass area off U.S. Highway 40.  With 2,600 acres in its operating permit, the company offers the closest powder skiing operation to the Front Range. Powder Addiction is a member of the Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce.

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Join the Flock for the Ute Mountain – Mesa Verde Birding Festival

February 17th, 2010

Cortez, Colorado – The rich and diverse natural habitats of Southwestern Colorado’s Mesa Verde Country® are home to a fascinating variety of raptors, seasonal migrants, and year-round residents. Each year the region’s natural diversity is celebrated during the Ute Mountain – Mesa Verde Birding Festival.  The 2010 festival will run from Wednesday, May 12 through Sunday, May 16.

The festival opens on May 12, with a reception for participants and a free Beginning Birding lecture.  Registration also begins Wednesday afternoon and is available throughout the festival.  Saturday’s keynote event is a silent auction and dinner, with keynote speaker Brian Fox Ellis, who portrays John James Audubon.  Since 1980, Ellis had been touring the world collecting and telling stories.  He has been a keynote speaker and/or featured workshop presenter at hundreds of conferences, has published eight books, written 20 musical theatre productions, and contributed articles to a wide range of magazines.

Throughout the festival guided tours will be taken to such diverse ecosystems as McElmo Canyon, Mesa Verde National Park, Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Upper Dolores River, and the Mancos River Valley. Participants may expect to see a wide variety of native and migratory species.  During the 2009 festival birders spotted over 124 species of  owls, hawks, hummingbirds, bluebirds, swallows, nuthatches, orioles, finches, geese, ducks, woodpeckers and others. This year’s field trips include a tour to the only place in Colorado where nesting Lucy’s Warblers have been documented, and a special tour to view the wild horses in Disappointment Valley, about 90 minutes outside of Cortez.  Unique birding tours via raft and horseback are also scheduled, as well as a birding and rock art trip into San Juan County, New Mexico.

The town of Cortez sits in the archaeological center of the United States, making it easy to combine festival attendance with side trips to important cultural and historical sites like Mesa Verde National Park and the Ute Tribal Park.  Festival registration is $45, which includes the Wednesday reception, daily lectures and Saturday night’s keynote dinner.  Daily tours are priced separately.  The festival’s webpage at www.utemountainmesaverdebirdingfestival.com has registration forms, tour prices, schedules, and lodging information.  The Mesa Verde Country® website at www.mesaverdecountry.com also has links to festival information, archaeological sites and other Mesa Verde Country® destinations and activities.  Early registration is recommended, as trips fill quickly.

Mesa Verde Country® (www.mesaverdecountry.com)
Mesa Verde Country is the southwest Colorado travel destination surrounding Mesa Verde National Park. The towns of Cortez, Dolores, Mancos and Towaoc, and the entire Mesa Verde Country area, comprise the archaeological center of America.

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TripAdvisor® Names Colorado Dude Ranch Top All-Inclusive Resort

February 11th, 2010

Granby’s Drowsy Water Ranch earns Travelers’ Choice Award

Granby, Colo., Feb. 11, 2010 – TripAdvisor® has named Colorado’s Drowsy Water Ranch the “#1 All-Inclusive Resort in the World” in its 2010 Travelers’ Choice® awards.

Drowsy Water Ranch is an all-inclusive dude ranch in Granby, Colo., located 70 miles west of Denver. The Ranch is a member of the Grand County Colorado Dude & Guest Ranch Association.

The annual TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards, now in its eighth year, honor the world’s best hotels, and earn their distinction from those who know the lodging properties best – real travelers. Unlike other hotel awards programs, the TripAdvisor awards are based on the millions of real, unbiased reviews and opinions posted at www.tripadvisor.com and content from across the Web. In addition to its selection as the top all-inclusive resort in the world, Drowsy Water Ranch is one of only two U.S. resorts to make the top 10 in that listing.

“Inspired by the millions of trusted traveler reviews and opinions on TripAdvisor.com, the Travelers’ Choice awards have once again highlighted the finest hotels in the world,” says Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. This year, the awards recognized more than 700 hotels and other lodging properties for outstanding service, value and quality.

For TripAdvisor reviews on the Drowsy Water Ranch, go to http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g33449-d125326-Reviews-Drowsy_Water_Ranch-Granby_Colorado.html. For the complete 2010 Travelers’ Choice list, go to www.tripadvisor.com/travelerschoice.

Drowsy Water Ranch (www.drowsywater.com)

Drowsy Water Ranch, a member of the Grand County Colorado Dude & Guest Ranch Association (www.dude-ranch.com), is a 600-acre, all-inclusive dude ranch. The ranch, nestled in its own private mountain valley 70 miles west of Denver, has provided visitors from around the world authentic western vacations for more than 70 years. Drowsy Water’s “Cowgirl-Only Week” was named one of the Top 20 Girlfriends’ Getaways in 2009 by hospitality guru company, Aspire.

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Winter Dude Ranch Vacations Offer Unexpected Surprises

February 10th, 2010

Granby, Colo. –  Mention a trip to a dude ranch, and you typically conjure up visions of horses trotting through green meadows, weekend rodeos, hayrides, jeep trips and more. But come winter, a dude ranch vacation can offer a pleasant surprise when it comes to relaxation, natural beauty and affordability.

Most dude and guest ranches in northern climates close for the winter, but two in Colorado remain open for the best of the state’s renown snow and winter scenery.

Latigo Ranch (www.latigotrails.com) – Located near Kremmling, Colo., about 100 miles west of Denver, Latigo is one of the state’s most personal ranches. Family owned and operated, it transforms into a cross-country resort and winter playground for a capacity of just 25 guests to take advantage of the area’s 216 inches of annual snowfall.

Latigo machine grooms more than 50 km of cross-country ski trail, covering varied terrain from flat beginning track to challenging advanced. All track is groomed for both classic and skate skiing.  Backcountry and telemark skiers head to more than 200 square miles of deep powder in adjoining national forest land.

Guests also can snowshoe, sled and tube, with magnificent views of valleys, mountains and frozen waterfalls. They’re likely to spot at least some of the wildlife in the area: elk, deer, coyote, snowshoe rabbits, owl, ermine, blue grouse, fox.  After a full day of activity, there’s a hot tub, pool table, foosball and library for relaxing – along with “nouveau ranch” cuisine: healthy, hearty, fresh and plenty of it. The ranch will even pack lunches for skiers taking off on day-long tours.

Latigo’s all-inclusive rates may be the best surprise of all. For adults, the daily rate is: $175/day; for children age 5-13, $105/day. Children five and under are free when staying with a parent. Rates include accommodations with sitting room and wood-burning stove; three meals/day; use off all Latigo facilities; use of groomed cross-country ski trails; and ski lessons. Latigo Ranch is open for winter stays through March 21.

C Lazy U Ranch (www.clazyu.com) – An upscale, family style dude ranch, C Lazy U offers luxury accommodations, gourmet cuisine, five spur service and is the only guest ranch in North America to have attained both the Five-Diamond and Five-Star ratings during the course of  its 91-year history.   

C Lazy U is very much a skiing destination, whether it’s of the Nordic or Alpine variety. On site are more than 400 acres of skiable terrain.  For downhillers, the ranch offers ski packages and shuttle service to nearby Winter Park and Sol Vista Ski Resorts. C Lazy U’s private snowcat skiing provides access to trails of all levels, including boundless backcountry skiing for advanced levels.

Winter guests also will find sleigh rides, a tubing hill, sledding, ice skating, ice hockey, horseback riding, trap shooting,  archery and a fully equipped game room. For those looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, there are spa services, yoga classes and personal training services.

C Lazy U is open for winter stays through March 28.  Children 12 and under stay free.  The ranch can also accommodate business retreats and weddings.

Dude ranch vacations continue to grow in popularity year-round, says Gaylene Ore, president of Ore Communications, largely because of their all-inclusive nature. “When you have so many activities included, it’s easy to try out as many or as few as you wish without worries of additional cost,” she explains. “For families with kids who have short attention spans, this can be a real budget-saver.”

All food and beverages are included in one cost for dude ranch vacations, which eliminates hidden costs. In addition, Ore points out that time savings can be significant. “There’s no intricate planning involved with an all-inclusive dude ranch vacation. You make one phone call and your trip is done.” 

Ore Communications, Inc. (www.orecommunications.com)

Ore Communications, based in Granby, Colo., specializes in public relations, branding and strategic marketing for the lifestyle, leisure and travel industry. Clients include destination areas, visitor and convention bureaus, tourism boards, resorts and dude ranches.

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Eckert Crane Days in Delta County, March 19-27

February 3rd, 2010

News Release

 

Contact: Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, 970-887-2536, gaylene@orecommunications.com

 

 

‘Second-Hand Crane Days’ Mark Greater Sandhill Crane Migration in Western Colorado

– Sandhill crane migration announces end of winter with impressive herald of spring –

 

Eckert, Colo., Feb. 3, 2010 – Spring will be in air – literally – when the Greater Sandhill Cranes gather in Eckert, Colo., March 19-27, on their annual northward migration.

 

Eckert Crane Days, otherwise known as Second-Hand Crane Days, celebrate the first main stop for the Greater Sandhill Cranes as they begin their annual northward migration out of the San Luis Valley of Colorado. As the birds leave the Valley between early March and mid-April – with peak migration counts as high as 17,000 – they head to Hart’s Basin and Fruitgrowers Reservoir in Eckert. Most of the cranes come to the reservoir for an overnight stay to rest, feed and regroup, relying on the reservoir’s water and wetlands for protection, and adjacent agricultural lands for food. 

 

With thousands of visitors arriving to view the cranes, the festival includes educational sessions, as well as entertainment and fine dining.

 

  • Winemaker’s Dinner (March 19) – Gourmet dinner, featuring local produce and meats, paired with fine wines from Eckert’s Surface Creek Winery and Gallery.

 

  • Lift-Off and Landing (March 20) – Audubon experts will offer lectures on the Greater Sandhill Cranes and other migratory birds in the Fruitgrower’s Reservoir Habitat. The cranes’ lift-off and landing is described as an “organized mayhem of flight and sound.” Their trumpeting calls, produced by a modified windpipe likened to a French horn, can be heard for miles during migration.

 

  • Colorado Art Ranch Presentation (March 27) – Speakers from the Colorado Art Ranch will present water as it relates to the Greater Sandhill Cranes and their habitat, weaving together science and art for an entertaining experience.

 

The Sandhill Crane, considered a species of special concern, is a long-legged, long-necked bird with a naked red forehead and slate or brown-gray plumage. The birds measure 34 to 38 inches in length, and weigh 8 to 10 pounds. The Sandhill Crane population is estimated at 25,000 birds, with up to 17,000 in the Rocky Mountain region.

 

Eckert Crane Days is co-sponsored by Surface Creek Winery and Gallery, and the Black Canyon Chapter of the Audubon Society. For more information on the festival, visit www.eckertcranedays.com or contact event coordinators Jim and Jeanne Durr at 970-835-9563.

Delta County (www.westerncolorado.org)

Delta County, Colo., is located on Colorado’s western slope at the base of Grand Mesa, one of the largest flattop mountains in the world.  With more than 281,000 acres dedicated to agriculture, Delta County is home to the towns of Cedaredge, Crawford, Delta, Eckert, Hotchkiss, Orchard City and Paonia. 

 

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Delta County Press Trip – Qualified Journalists Invited

February 2nd, 2010

Title: Western Colorado Adventure: Hike, Raft, Fish (Delta County, Colo.)

 

Company: Ore Communications

 

Phone, email, Web site: 970-887-2536 (MDT), gaylene@orecommunications.com, www.orecommunications.com

 

Description: Experience the variety of Delta County, one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets, with hands-on action. You’ll combine outdoor adventures in rafting and hiking with visits to local wineries and eateries, and explore terrain that ranges from desert to orchard to alpine. Delta County, Colo., is located on Colorado’s western slope, sitting at the base of the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain. An agricultural, outdoors, wine and heritage hotbed, the region is home to the communities of Cedaredge, Crawford, Delta, Eckert, Hotchkiss, Orchard City and Paonia.

 

Dates: June 24-27, 2010

If these dates do not work into your schedule, we would be happy to include another appropriate staff person or freelance writer on assignment, or arrange an individual trip at another time.

 

Journalists are invited to: Raft, hike, visit a national park, explore a newly created national conservation area, explore the world’s largest flat-top mountain, wine and dine.

 

Arrival: Arriving on Thursday, June 24 you’ll stay in the quaint small town of Hotchkiss, in the middle of western Colorado’s agriculture and wine country.

 

Day 1: Whitewater raft the Gunnison Gorge (Class III and IV rapids). Start by hiking down the Chukar Trail, to the bottom of the Black Canyon and the mouth of the Gunnison Gorge. We’ll be rafting through the Gunnison Gorge, a unique double-canyon system of black granite layered with red sandstones that sits within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (downstream of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park). During the trip, you’ll gaze up at 1,500-foot walls of the Black Canyon and down at pools of fish.

 

We’ll meet bright and early for a 7:30 a.m. start to the day. Included will be a light breakfast and then a catered lunch along the way on a scenic beach. Fishing aficionados are in for a special treat this time of year, as the stoneflies will be in hatch.

 

 

Day 2: Hike in the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area. You’ll see rarely viewed petroglyphs, visit an old cabin and walk along scenic trails. After a morning of exploring, we’ll return to the town of Delta for lunch. In the afternoon, it’s off to the wineries in the Surface Creek Valley; they comprise some of the 15 wineries in Delta County. You’ll then have the chance to head up to the Grand Mesa, topping out at 10,000 feet. Stretching some 40 miles across, the Grand Mesa is covered with lush aspen forests, sunny meadows and more than 200 sparkling, stream-fed lakes.

 

Day 3: Return to Grand Junction’s Walker Field for flights home.


Web site:  www.westerncolorado.org

 

Location: Delta County is located 40 miles south of Grand Junction, Colo., 276 miles west of Denver, 329 miles southeast of Salt Lake City. Known for its extensive outdoor recreation opportunities and agriculture base, the county is home to myriad farms, orchards and ranches as well as Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and the West Elk American Viticultural Area.

 

Inclusions:

-       Lodging (June 24-27)

-       Meals

-       Air transportation to and from Grand Junction, Colo.

-       Transportation to and from Grand Junction’s Walker Field, and from lodging properties to and from all activities

-       Cost of all scheduled activities

-       Note: If your media outlet does not permit you to participate in complimentary trips, we are happy to work out an acceptable form of payment.

 

Exclusions:

-       Alcoholic beverages

-       Gratuities

-       Rental car

-       Items of a personal nature

 

Journalist requirements: Journalists with major travel, fishing, outdoors or other related media outlets; writers on assignment for travel, fishing, hiking, outdoors or other related articles. Journalists need to be able to hike 1.1 miles to the put-in for the raft trip, carry their own daypacks and help paddle.

 

For more information: Call or email Gaylene Ore (970-887-2536, gaylene@orecommunications.com)

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Mesa Verde Country(R) Agritourism Gets Boost from U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

January 13th, 2010

– Grant helps Bureau tie together agriculture, archaeology –

In southwest Colorado’s Mesa Verde Country(R), agriculture has historically been a key piece of the cultural and economic fabric. Now, thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the area is making that history its present and future.

Mesa Verde Country will use the $50,000 grant for its “Agricultural Adventures” program, designed to communicate the benefits and details of local producers to regional and national audiences.

“Agritourism is a popular term, and a fast-growing industry, but making it tangible and accessible to the public can be challenging,” explains Lynn Dyer, director of the Mesa Verde Country Visitor Information Bureau. “Our intent is to help people learn and experience agriculture through real, hands-on experiences. That’s agritourism.”

Key elements of the program include a new brochure and expansion of the Mesa Verde Country Web site (www.mesaverdecountry.com) to tie together the archaeology, agriculture and scenic attractions of the area. For example, how to incorporate the relationships between Mesa Verde National Park, a Navajo-Churro sheep ranch, a brewery and a ranch in the area’s historic McElmo Canyon. The site will expand to offer podcasts with local farmers and ranchers, real-time information on farmers markets and special events, as well as “how-to” presentations for aspiring farmers and gardeners.”

The “Agricultural Adventures” section of the Web site already makes it easy and fun to explore the region’s bounty. Newly added pages contain information on every form of local agriculture, says Dyer, ranging from an antique tractor museum and historic agricultural sites to a state-of-the-art biofuel production facility. Visitors will find detailed information on:

-Ranches: Yak, alpaca, camel and reindeer ranches; tours and stays at working ranches

-Farms, orchards and mills: Tours; pick-your-own opportunities for apples, peaches, pears, pumpkins and other produce.

-Livestock: Auctions and processors of locally-produced cattle, sheep and hogs.

-Produce: Farm stands, farmers markets featuring locally-grown produce and related products.

-Food, wine, beer: Local distilleries, restaurants, wineries, and microbreweries, as well as local coffee brewers..

-Greenhouses and nurseries: Native plants, heirloom seeds, and other locally grown products.

For information on Mesa Verde Country® agricultural destinations and events, call 800-530-2998 or visit www.mesaverdecountry.com.

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Contacts: Lynn Dyer, Mesa Verde Country® Visitor Information Bureau, 800-530-2998, lynnd@mesaverdecountry.com

Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, 970-887-2536, gaylene@orecommunications.com

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Winter Park/Mary Jane celebrate birthday, announce schedule for Jan. 22-24 Winter Park Winter Carnival

January 12th, 2010

MEDIA ADVISORY

Contacts: Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, gaylene@orecommunications.com; 970-887-2536
Tamara Davis, Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce; tdavis@playwinterpark.com; 970-726-4221, ext. 205

They’re 70!
– Winter Park/Mary Jane celebrate birthday, announce schedule for Jan. 22-24 Winter Park Winter Carnival presented by Sprint and Summit Legend/Trailhead Lodges–

Winter Park, Colo., Jan. 12, 2010 – Winter Park and Mary Jane Ski Resort will celebrate 70 years of skiing during this year’s Jan. 22-24 Winter Carnival.

The three-day fest includes on-snow activities including snowshoe hikes, human bowling, dog sled races and skijoring. Visitors also will find a snow sculpture contest, live music, free bump-skiing tips, retail and rental gear specials, gear demos and geocaching throughout the weekend. Kids can enjoy dog sled rides, a play zone, and campfires with s’mores and hot chocolate. There’s also a dog agility demonstration and an evening parade down Mainstreet, followed by fireworks and cupcake.

The Grand Park development in nearby Fraser will play host to the Grand Park Dog Days of Winter, complete with sled dog races, skijoring (and clinics). A snowshoe race will benefit Grand County Pet Pals, a non-profit organization dedicated to responsible pet ownership, animal health and education programs, and spaying/neutering.

For a full schedule of events, see www.playwinterpark.com. Highlights include:

Friday, Jan. 22
1. Free bump tips (top of Super Gauge Express): 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
2. 26th Annual Chef’s Cup Dinner Dance (West Portal Station): 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 23
1. Pancake breakfast (Mary Jane): 7:30-9 a.m.
2. Snow sculpture contest (Winter Park and Mary Jane): 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
3. Dog sled races, skijoring (Grand Park, Fraser): 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 noon
4. Free bump tips (top of Super Gauge Express): 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
5. Red Feather Snowshoe free demo (Grand Park in Fraser) 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
6. Dog agility show (Grand Park, Fraser): 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
7. Hot chocolate (Trailhead Lodges Clubhouse, Winter Park): 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
8. Live music: Mary Jane (12 noon-4 p.m.); West Portal Station, Winter Park Resort (2-4 p.m.); Hideaway Park, Winter Park (4-8 p.m.)
9. Interpretive snowshoe hike (Hideaway Park, Winter Park): 1 p.m.
10. Free skijoring clinic (Grand Park, Fraser): 2-3 p.m.
11. Human bowling (Hideaway Park, Winter Park): 4-5:30 p.m.
12. Campfire with s’mores and hot chocolate (Hideaway Park, Winter Park): 4-7 p.m.
13. Parade down Mainstreet (Winter Park): 6 p.m. Fireworks and cupcakes to follow

Sunday, Jan. 24
1. Free bump tips (top of Super Gauge Express): 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
2. Dog sled races, skijoring (Grand Park, Fraser): 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 noon

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Media Note: To request photography, interviews or more information, please contact Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, at 970-887-2536 or gaylene@orecommunications.com.

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Enjoy winter vacation deals, activities and fun festivals in Southwest Colorado this winter

January 6th, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

 

Editor’s Note: Photos Available

 

Southwest Colorado – Showcasing Cool Deals During Cold Days

 

Southwest Colorado (Jan. 6, 2010) – Winter vacationers looking for a fun-filled getaway – at a discount, no less! – need look no further than the Southwest Colorado Travel Region.  Offering world class ski resorts, sky-high outdoor playgrounds, and plenty of events and activities both on and off the slopes, Southwest Colorado Travel Region is a cool way to spend cold days.

 

Delta County (www.westerncolorado.org)

Delta County’s Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, boasts 800-square miles of winter playground terrain.  The mesa is home to 400 miles of winter trails, perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.  The 123-mile-long Powderhorn to Sunlight Trail is the longest snowmobile trail in North America. Visitors may book a room at one of the nearby communities in Delta County, or choose to stay right on the mesa at the Thunder Mountain Lodge (www.sprucelodgecolorado.com) or the Grand Mesa Lodge (800.551.6372). 

 

Gunnison-Crested Butte (www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com)

Crested Butte Mountain Resort is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding.  Groomed Nordic trails in the area now number more than 95K and backcountry routes are plentiful, allowing tons of opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors around Gunnison-Crested Butte. 

Visitors may fly directly into Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport from Salt Lake City, Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth and Denver to experience “Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town.”   Fly to Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) on United, Delta or American between Dec. 17, 2009 and April 4, 2010 and take advantage of the Friends and Family Fly Free program.  Buy two airline tickets and get the third free when staying in Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s lodging properties for at least four nights. The maximum number of free tickets per itinerary is three (for a booking of nine tickets), and the maximum travel credit is $450 per free airline ticket. The offer is subject to availability and not valid for any travel between March 12 – 16, 2010. To book visit www.skicb.com or call 800-600-2803. 

Lake City (www.lakecity.com)

Lake City is home to Colorado’s highest hut system.  Offering some of the finest in winter backcountry experiences, The Hinsdale Haute Route provides cozy refuge for skiers and snowshoers within four yurts that are carpeted, insulated and furnished with nearly all the comforts of home!  

 

The Jon Wilson Memorial Yurt is rated for beginners and intermediates and is located 1.25 miles from Highway 149.  The yurt sleeps up to six people and offers superb views of Lake City, Lake San Cristobal and Sunshine, Grassy and Red Mountains.  Beginners may also access Rambouillet Yurt, located on routes that vary from 3.5-five miles from Highway 149.  Colorado Trail Friends Yurt is located high on the divide and is rated intermediate to advanced.  Three routes ranging from 4-6 miles long lead to the yurt, which sleeps up to eight. Fawn Lakes Yurt is the highest, most remote and most challenging-to-reach hut in the system.  Located four miles from the Colorado Trail Friends Yurt and six miles from Pearl Lakes, this yurt sleeps up to six people.  For information on lodging rates, or to make reservations visit www.hinsdalehauteroute.org.

 

Montrose (www.visitmontrose.com) 

Montrose Regional Airport is the gateway to Southwest Colorado Travel Region and offers convenient flights from many major cities, including Denver, Houston, Atlanta, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth and Newark.  Make Montrose the hub for your Southwest Colorado vacation, but don’t miss out on the experiences located right in this area.  The stunning Black Canyon of the Gunnison (http://www.nps.gov/blca/) is open year round and gives winter visitors the opportunity to snowshoe, cross country ski and star gaze.  Take a guided trek with one of the knowledgeable rangers, or venture out on your own.   

 

Canyon Creek Bed and Breakfast offers a number of packages ranging from $175 to $275 to entice visitors to stay and play in this charming mountain town.  The packages include things such as in-room his and her massages and champagne.  Each package comes with a yummy breakfast.  (www.canyoncreekbedandbreakfast.com/valentine.html)

 

Ouray (www.ouraycolorado.com)

Surrounded on three sides by 13,000-foot snowcapped peaks, beautiful Ouray is aptly nicknamed “The Switzerland of America.”  The Ouray Ice Park (www.ourayicepark.com) is the world’s first park dedicated exclusively to ice climbing and offers free climbing experiences for beginners, as well as experts.  Each January world-class athletes flock to Ouray for the Ouray Ice Festival (www.ourayicefestival.com), the premiere international gathering of its kind.   To warm you up after a day on the ice take a dip in the Ouray Hot Springs Pool.  It is open year-round and offers more than a million gallons of crystal clear natural hot springs water, several soaking sections at varying temperatures, and a lap swim section. 

 

Book the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs’s Once-a-Month Special (www.boxcanyonouray.com), created for those who live within a four-hour drive of Ouray and need an excuse to get away.  Join the popular program and commit to an Ouray getaway once a month until May 31.  Once-a-month program members stay for just $59 per night Friday-Saturday and pay only $44 Sunday-Thursday.  Offer not valid on holiday weekends. 

Orvis Hot Springs in nearby Ridgway also offers lodging packages.  Orvis Hot Springs is a clothing optional natural hot springs resort that does not heat or treat its waters.  Orvis offers seven soaking areas that range in temperature from 98-112 degrees.  Log on to www.orvishotsprings.com to see the most updated deals being offered.   

 

Silverton (www.silvertoncolorado.com)

The snow-covered San Juan Mountains around Silverton provide an enchanting setting for various outdoor winter activities including: alpine, extreme, snow-cat and cross-country skiing; snowshoeing; ice fishing; natural ice climbing; ice skating; sledding; and snowmobiling. The Silverton Snowmobile Club grooms many miles of multi-use trails with easy access from town on U.S. Highway 550.

 

Located just outside of Silverton, Silverton Mountain (www.silvertonmountain.com) boasts the steepest, most powder-filled slopes in the U.S.  For a milder ride, hit Kendall Mountain Ski Area and go sledding, skiing, snowboarding, or tubing for just $15 per adult and $10 per child or senior. 

Pagosa Springs (www.visitpagosasprings.com)

Located just outside of Pagosa Springs, Wolf Creek Ski Area (www.wolfcreekski.com) boasts an average of 465 inches of snow on the mountain and is known for having “the most snow in Colorado.”  Pagosa Springs also has more than 60 miles of cross-country skiing trails, groomed for skate, freestyle skating and snowshoeing.  After a day in the great outdoors treat yourself to a relaxing soak, massage or other treatment at The Springs Resort & Spa (www.pagosahotsprings.com), which is terraced along the banks of the San Juan River.  The Great Pagosa Aquifer, the world’s largest and deepest hot mineral spring, is the source of the therapeutic mineral waters here. 

 

Telluride (www.visittelluride.com)

Telluride is renowned for its rich heritage, charming culture and remote mountain beauty.  Conveniently, visitors may fly directly from Denver or Phoenix into Telluride Regional Airport (TEX), the highest commercial airport in North America (located at 9,078 feet above sea level).  Between Telluride and nearby Mountain Village options for accommodations and activities abound. 

 

The world-class Telluride Ski Resort (www.tellurideskiresort.com) is known for its powder-filled bowls, family-friendly ski school and amazing views.  Book the Telluride Stay and Ski Package starting at $115 per person/per night based on double occupancy that includes lift tickets and lodging.  Package rates are based on a four-night stay with three days of skiing.  (800.778.8581)

 

For a backcountry experience, book a trip with Colorado’s only heliski outfitter, Telluride Helitrax (www.helitrax.net).  Or, explore the San Juan Hut System (http://sanjuanhuts.com/), five backcountry huts located between Telluride, Ridgway and Ouray.  For family fun, check out the local ice skating rinks—one near Heritage Plaza in Mountain Village, or another in Telluride’s Town Park.   

 

Winter Festivals & Events

 

15th Annual Ouray Ice Festival – Jan. 7-10, 2010 – This festival draws some of the greatest athletes in the

world who challenge themselves on the slippery slopes of the route created at the Ouray Ice Park.

Guided Snow Shoe Walks at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park –Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. from Jan. 16 – March 7 – Montrose – Take part in a ranger-guided snow-shoeing tour along the rim of the canyon.  No special skills are required to participate, and snowshoes (including kids’ sizes) are available for loan free of charge at the visitor’s center. 

Cowboy Ball – Delta – Jan. 23, 2010 – This event is the Delta County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s annual fundraiser for healthcare scholarships and to support the oncology department.  The fundraiser includes dinner, dancing, the Anders Brothers and a silent auction.  (www.deltahospital.org)

 

Moonrise/Sunset Nordic Ski-B-Q Social – Pagosa Springs – Jan. 29, Feb 26, March 26, 2010 – The Pagosa Nordic Club hosts these social events that start at 6 p.m. at Falls Creek.  Meet new people and try out some of the groomed trails under the sunset and moon rise. Enjoy a free BBQ, ski and camp fire amongst friends of Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. (http://pagosanordic.blogspot.com)

 

24th Annual Alley Loop Nordic Marathon (1.5 K, 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K and 42K), Crested Butte Nordic Center – Feb. 6 – This event is the highest-altitude Nordic marathon in the U.S. The American Birkebeiner qualifying race starts and finishes in the heart of Crested Butte on Elk Avenue (a National Historic District since 1974) and winds its way through streets, alleyways and Nordic trail system located on the outskirts of this historic mining town.  (www.cbnordic.org)

Telluride Comedy Festival – Feb. 11-14, 2010 – Telluride Comedy Fest is a weekend of comedy by some of the best and funniest performers working today. Each night features a unique show with an emphasis on a different comedic form: stand-up, sketch and improv.  (www.sheridanoperahouse.com)

 

WinterFest, Pagosa Springs – Feb. 13-14, 2010 – Take a plunge – if you dare! – into the frigid San Juan River as you raise money for your favorite non-profit or community organization.  Also on tap – the Anything Goes Downhill Sled Race competition (complete with homemade sleds made of toilets, chairs, satellite dishes and other wacky materials!), the Snowsculpting Contest and Nordic Ski Races (a cross-country race that takes place in the downtown area, around the beautiful Reservoir Hill and surrounding private lands.  (www.visitpagosasprings.com/colorado/chamber-of-commerce/chamber-events/winterfest-info)

 

Rocky Mountain Sled Dog Sprints, Grand Mesa (Cedaredge) – Feb. 20-21, 2010 – Delta County goes to the dogs atop the world’s largest flat-topped mountain with the Rocky Mountain Sled Dog Sprints on Feb. 20 and the Rocky Mountain High Sled Dog Races on Feb. 21. 

 

Gay Ski Week, Telluride – Feb. 20-27, 2010 – This celebration includes a full week of events and parties both on and off the slopes.  (www.telluridegayskiweek.com)

 

Progressive Bonfire Dinner – Crested Butte – March 20, 2010 – The Crested Butte Nordic Council’s annual Progressive Bonfire Dinner is a unique culinary journey taking participants along a luminary-lit path for a four-star, four-course, four-fire meal.  Snowshoes and Nordic skis are the mode of transportation!  (970-349-1707)

 

Eckert Crane Days – March 20 and 27, 2010 – From early March to late April (times vary depending on the arrival of spring) visitors can see the Greater Sandhill Cranes glide into Hart’s Basin and land at the Fruitgrowers Reservoir as they stopover during their migration north.  Come in the afternoons between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to see them land or in the mornings between 9 – 11:00 a.m. to see them take off.  It is quite a spectacular sight! (www.blackcanyonaudubon.org or www.eckertcranedays.com)

 

About Southwest Colorado Travel Region:

The Southwest Colorado Travel Region boasts eight scenic byways, five national forests, five hot springs, five wilderness areas, two national parks, and two national monuments.  The area stretches from Delta in the northwest to Pagosa Springs in the southeast.  For more information about this unique region, contact Gaylene Ore at 970.887.2536 or gaylene@orecommunications.com or log on to www.swcolotravel.org for information and to request a map of the area.

 

# # #

 

Contacts:  Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, 970.887.2536, gaylene@orecommunications.com

Karen Avery, Southwest Colorado Travel Region Board, 970.325.4981, boxcanyonlodge@gmail.com

 

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