Winter Guide 2010

Inside the Winter GuideGear Up for the ElementsTips on Winter Sports FitnessThe Dog Days of Winter: DogsleddingSnowdown 2010: Life’s a BeachSki Resorts of Southwestern ColoradoLocal Communities’ Special Eventsand more ...

2 2009 Southwest Colorado Winter Guide

2009 Southwest Colorado Winter Guide 3

PublisherRichard Ballantine

Marketing ManagerDennis Hanson

General ManagerSharon Hermes

Design ManagerBrady Sutherlin

Magazine Editor/DesignerDavid Ohman

Advertising Design/PrepressMitchell Carter, Brady Choat,Jennifer Dickens, Terry Swarbrick,Michelle Uhl, Linda Vona, Tracy Willbanks

Account ExecutivesCyrilla Cass, Darryl Hunt,Karolann Latimer, Shawna Long,Debby Morgan, Susan Wright

Account AssistantsSara Beckler, Larissa Lopez, Andrea Palli

A Publication of

Advertising DepartmentThe Durango Herald uses reasonable effort to include accurate

and up-to-date information for its special magazine publications. However, all general information comes from a variety of sources and may change

at any time for any reason. To verify specific information, refer to the organization or business noted.

To see the online version of this guide, click the link at:www.durangoherald.com

Cover Photo: On the edge above SilvertonPhoto by Sven Brunso

INSIDESouthwest Colorado

Winter Guide 2009

Welcome 4

Durango Special Events 6

Snowdown 10

Tips for Winter Fitness 12

Indoor Activities 14

Gear Up for the Elements 16

Where’s the Gear 20

Backcountry Recreation 21

The Dog Days of Winter 22

Ski Areas of Southwestern Colorado 26

Snowmobiling 30

Cross-country Skiing & Snowshoeing 32

East 2nd Avenue 34

Arts & Entertainment 36

Just for Kids 40

Trimble Hot Springs 44

Winter Fishing 46

Dining in Durango 48

Bayfield 50

Cortez 52

Dolores 53

Ignacio 54

Mancos 55

Mesa Verde 56

Ouray 57

Pagosa Springs 58

Silverton 62

Vallecito Lake 68

Winter Safety 70

An old buckboard at The Lodge atTamarron. Photo:David Ohman


Welcome

As of this writing, the aspens have gra-ciously and rapidly dispensed with theirsummer greenery in favor of a bright yel-low blush across the valleys, mountain-sides and cliff tops. Sugar maples andscrub oak add their hues of deep red andrust to this autumn palette. These artexhibits of Mother Nature act as a town

crier announcing the coming winter. So it takes little effort,then, to turn our thoughts to skiing and boarding, snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, and for more adventurous

souls, trekking, fishing and camping in the backcountrywhere virgin trails and quiet campsites await.

‘Safe to say, this is a skier’ s paradise with localhills and world-class resorts such as Durango MountainResort, Kendall Mountain, Wolf Creek Pass and Telluride.

Winter is also a time for families to enjoy theDurango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad as it trundlesthrough the snow-covered Animas Valley up to CascadeCanyon. Children, in particular, will also enjoy the Peanuts-inspired Great Pumpkin Patch Express, Thomas the TankEngine and the timeless favorite, The Polar Express.


Durango is also home to the home-grownSnowdown festival. This year’s theme is, “Life’s a Beach.”In its 33rd year, this is a 5-day opportunity to shed the win-ter blahs, crush that cabin fever, and as rock artist DavidCrosby wrote 40 years ago, “let your freak flag fly.” Fun?Chaotic? Outrageous? Of course. It’s also a perfectopportunity to stick our collective thumbs into the eye ofOld Man Winter.

Snowdown also plays host to a hot air balloonrace that launches from the interior of the Animas Valleyon an early Saturday morning. Adding to the drama, the

D&SNGR stops to let passengers get out and watch thiskinetic collage of colorful balloons float southward over thefarms and ranches that spread out on the valley floor.

As you will see in the 2009 Southwest ColoradoWinter Guide, our communities are planning activities andevents that honor and support the arts, outdoor activitiesand the spirit of winter life in Southwest Colorado. Take thetime to venture out and experience as much as you can.The cold blast of winter is more than offset by the warmspirit that makes each Southwest Colorado community an integral part of our way of life.

One of the events of Snowdown is the hot airballoon race that launches on a Saturdaymorning from the middle of the Animas Valley.The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge trainstops to let passengers get out and enjoy thelaunch. This photograph was shot at the eventlast January. The temperature that morningwas a brisk five degrees.Photo: David Ohman

Dance performance at the Snowdown FolliesPhoto: Yodit Gidey

Bar D WranglersPhoto: Jerry McBride



Nov. 1: Daylight Savings Time EndsSay goodbye to the long days of summer and prepare forlong winter nights.

Nov. 6: 11th Annual Wine Tasting and Silent AuctionWine tasting & auction hosted by Liquor World and Habitatfor Humanity of La Plata County at the Doubletree HotelBallroom. 5:30 p.m.

Nov. 7: Hesperus Ski Swap The Hesperus Ski Patrol Ski Swap at the La Plata CountyFairgrounds is in its 46th year. It started out in basementsand garages and has evolved into one of the areas mostanticipated ski sale events. For more information call (970) 382-0164 or visit www.hesperusskipatrol.org.

Nov. 11: Veterans ParadeShow your support for our veterans and troops and watchthe parade on Main Ave. Call (970) 375-5065 for moreinformation.

Nov. 20 - Dec. 28: The Polar ExpressRide the train to the "North Pole" and pick up Santa.Visit www.durangotrain.com for more information.

Nov. 25: Cascade Canyon Winter TrainThe train begins its winter schedule, turning around atCascade Canyon. Visit www.durangotrain.com for moreinformation.

Nov. 26 - Dec. 6: HollidazzleHolidazzle festivities kick off on November 26. More than75 businesses in the Central Business District are offeringgift drawings, with sign-ups being taken throughout thefive-week promotional period that begins Nov. 15. CallPam at (970) 375-5067 for more information.

Nov. 27: Sing with Santa & Tree LightingCelebrate the coming of Christmas by meeting at the trainstation, then carol your way to Buckley Park to decorate the community tree. For more information, visit www.durangobusiness.org

Durango Special Events


Dec. 4-6: 35th Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts FestivalVisit the Fairgrounds at 27th and Main Ave. for all yourChristmas shopping. Friday 12 noon until 5 p.m., Saturday10 a.m. until 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m.Call Margie at (970) 247-2117 for complete information.

Dec. 6: Durango Choral Society’s “A Traditional FamilyChristmas”A traditional family Christmas, the annual holiday extrava-ganza features all three DCS choirs participating in a spe-cial celebration of our Southwestern heritage. Show startsat 3 p.m. at the Community Concert Hall at Fort LewisCollege. Visit www.durangoconcerts.com or call (970)247-7657 for more information.

Dec. 9: A Leahy Family ChristmasA “Leahy Family Christmas” offers a most exhilaratingChristmas adventure and is a Christmas carol-lover’s“must see” event. Leahy is a Celtic Canadian powerhouseof eight siblings each of whom a triple-threat of fiddle- dri-ven music, dance and vocals. From sacred hymns andtraditional carols to a smorgasbord of fiery reels and jigs,“A Leahy Family Christmas” covers the full spectrum ofthe holiday. 7 p.m. at the Community Concert Hall at FortLewis College. Visit www.durangoconcerts.com or call(970) 247-7657 for more information.

Dec. 10: Noel NightFulfill holiday wish lists in Durango’s unique shops whileyou enjoy refreshments, carolers and a visit from Santa.Call (970) 375-5000.

Dec. 10-24: Annual Yule of the ArtsCome and see handmade arts & crafts and other uniquegift items. Call (970) 247-2117 for more information.

Dec. 11: Bar D Wranglers Winter PerformanceThe Wranglers will have a special performance at RiverChurch in Durango. Call (970) 247-4777 for more information.

Dec. 12: Bar D Wranglers Christmas JubileeDurango's much-beloved cowboy crooners present a warm-hearted and fun-filled show that will inspire theentire family to remember the true meaning of the holi-days. 7 p.m. at the Community Concert Hall at Fort LewisCollege. For more information and to buy tickets, call(970) 247-7657 or visit www.durangoconcerts.com

Dec. 18-20: State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara’s“Nutcracker”Tightly choreographed dancing, enthralling costumes andrelentless energy set to modern music. 7 p.m. on Friday, 2p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday at theCommunity Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. Visitwww.durangoconcerts.com for more information.

Dec. 21: Winter SolsticeObserve and celebrate the shortest day of the year.

Dec. 24: Bar D Wranglers 28th Annual Christmas Eve CarolingThe Wranglers invite you to join them at local restaurantsand at the hospital. Call (970) 247-5753 for more infor-mation.

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Torchlight ParadeCelebrate the New Year with a torchlight parade downPurgatory Mountain, followed by fireworks in the basearea. Event is subject to change. For details, visitwww.durangomountainresort.com or call (970) 247-9000.

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Special TrainEnjoy a festive evening excursion onboard a turn-of-the-century Presidential-class train. Entertainment, horsd'oeuvres, and a cash bar. Visit www.durangotrain.comor call (970) 247-2733 or toll free at (877) 872-4607 fordetails and reservations.

Jan. 27 - 31: Durango's 32nd Annual SnowdownCelebration“Life’s a Beach” is the theme for this year’s celebration.Snowdown is an annual celebration here in Durango.There is no shortage of fun during this week-long winterparty. Festivities include parades with unique hand-madefloats, the Snowdown Follies, and all the food and localbeer you could ask for. The biggest question is whichevents to attend, as it is merely impossible to get to themall! For a complete schedule of events, call DeborahUroda at (970) 769-0287 or visit www.snowdown.org

Feb. 26: Chocolate FantasiaAll the chocolate your heart desires. Sponsored byRocky Mountain Chocolate, Fort Lewis College and localrestaurants and caterers. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. atthe Fort Lewis College Student Union Ballroom. Call(970) 259-1021 for more information

Mar. 3-7: The Durango Independent Film Festival Bringing the Best in Independent Film to the DurangoCommunity. Visit www.durangofilm.org for showtimes and locations.

Mar. 14: Daylight Savings Time BeginsCelebrate longer days and shorter nights when theclocks “springs” forward

Durango Special Events (continued)


“Colorado”• Wildflower Honey

• Homemade Jams, Jellies• Wild Chokecherry Jelly

• Gift Assortments• Honey Wines• Free Sample

Factory Store Open Year-RoundMonday - Saturday 9-5

10 miles North of Durango on Hwy 550(between Durango & Purgatory)

orDurango Mall Holiday Store

Halloween to ChristmasCOMPLIMENTARY CATALOG

(970) 247-1474 • (800) 676-7690www.honeyville.com

Steak147 E. College Dr147 E. College Dr. . Durango Durango 970-247-5707970-247-5707wwwwww.orehouserest.orehouserestaurant.comaurant.com

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When one thinks of winter, there are theshort days and long nights with coldtemperatures and snow. Whetheryou’re fixated on playing in the snowor prefer to hunker down indoors witha blazing fireplace, there is a point

around mid-winter when it's time to blow off some steamand celebrate the season, at least to toss aside a case ofcabin fever for a few days. Well, if any place has a talentfor having fun while other parts of the world are beggingfor spring, Durango is the place. And the Snowdown festi-val is the event that reminds us all that “this ain’t Topeka!”Indeed, Durango’s convergence of humorous spirit andgeography can turn every winter into a blessing.

This will be my second winter in Durango and one ofthe highlights (of many) was last year’s “Snowdown in DaNile.” I’d been told of the hilarious, raucous and some-times-adult themed events, but nothing prepared me forthe unbridled enthusiasm of the large crowds, especiallyduring the big parade up Main Avenue on a bracinglycold winter night.

Durangoans seem impervious to the cold when thismuch fun is available. Last year’s Egyptian theme was ahoot. This time around, it’s “Life’s a Beach.” And as anative saltwater baby of Southern California, the surf cul-ture has been embedded in my marrow for, well, a longtime. So with the latest incarnation of Snowdown, we’re

speaking my language. How so?Long before Gidget and Moondoggie, before the surf

guitar sound of Dick Dale, and the breakthrough surf doc-umentary “Endless Summer,” life at the beach has been aculture all its own. For instance, since the 1930s, resi-dents of a large group of ramshackle cottages on thebeach at Crystal Cove near Laguna Beach, California,had a sunset tradition of raising the “Martini Flag” around5 p.m. You can guess how the rest of the evening playedout. Today, as a restored historic state park, the cove’sBeachcomber Cafe continues that tradition. Before thecove was fished out, you could wade into the shallowsand bring back large abalone or lobster to share withfriends.

Going to the beach has always been more than astate of mind. Before anyone discussed skin cancer, tak-ing on a bronzed patina by early summer was simply a foregone conclusion, a right of passage.

Today, life at the beach conjurs up parasailing, volley-ball, cookouts, camping, skin diving and scuba diving,surf fishing, and, of course, “well-assembled” bodiesparading about in relatively little attire.

So by the time Snowdown arrives and temperatureshit single digits, rest assured Durangoans will be ready to celebrate the beach culture with gusto.

For updates on this year’s Snowdown events, visitwww.snowdown.org.

g

12 –2009 Southwest Colorado Winter Guide

It’s cooling off, time to get ready for winter sports. The challenge withsnow/ice sports is adapting to unstable environments. Things get slick.Whether we ski, snowboard, skate, or simply walk across the shinyparking lot, we need balance. Physical Therapists return injuries to fullstrength and mobility, but we also work hard at re-establishing neuro-logical function. There are many tools we use to mimic unstable envi-ronments. These tools have trickled into the fitness industry recently,and have become popular. It’s called functional strength training. We

know how expensive it is to get involved in the medical system, so it is best thatwe become practitioners of up-stream medicine (prevention), “insuring” that wedon’t get injured in the first place.

The skeleton can be divided in two parts. The axial skeleton representsthe bones of the vertebral column. The corset of musculature surrounding thespine, top to bottom is known as the core. These are the muscles responsible forhelping us keep our balance. The appendicular skeleton represents the bonesand joints of the appendages. We need strong legs and arms so conventional lift-ing is also necessary, creating 1:1 ratios between all opposite muscles. Gettingourselves ready to tackle terra-not-so-firma requires we focus on both skeletalsystems.

We need to create strong core muscles but we also need to make them'smart'. Creating the ability to balance requires that our neurological system bechallenged. This fine-tunes the sensitivity of core muscles so we can catch our-selves more quickly, and keep the slippery side down. For injury prevention, wecreate as much flexibility and mobility as possible. A combination of pilates-stylemat work, yoga, and techniques from physical therapy gives us neurological bal-ance, proximal stability and distal mobility…the Rx for winter sports enjoyment!

We also need cardiovascular fitness. Many winter sports are short burstactivities. Hockey is the fastest growing sport in Durango. What is the best fit-ness training for hockey? Same as skiing! Interval training involves short burstsof high output aerobic activity. The more we practice these intervals the morequickly the heart learns to recover. Anyone who plays hockey, or skis can seethe necessity for our cardio vascular system to recover quickly.

This is what is known as sport-specific training. To maximize effective-ness, we identify the systems, and design a program, which trains them all, effi-ciently and effectively. The Durango Sports Club has been in the sport- specifictraining business for over 20 years. For individualized, personal instruction letour staff design the perfect program for you. Along with our personal trainingservices, the Durango Sports Club also offers Ski Fit, in the months of Octoberand November, Monday-Thursday, 5:30pm. The class is designed to get youready for the slopes…it also happens to be amazing “dry land training” for hock-ey! Join us at The Durango Sports Club.

Tips for Winter Fitness

When it comes to winter sports, one way to keep from

over-burdening those emergency rooms and orthopedic surgeons

is get into shape before the season starts. Durango SportsClub owner Dave Farmer and

personal trainer Chris Grotefendoffer some tips on how you can

increase your strength and flexibility in time for the

winter sports season.

Story and photos:The Durango Sports Club’s

Dave Farmer and Chris Grotefend

Along with the exercisesshown in these photographs,here are examples we use with our club members:

The Big 5 Core MovesTo cover all aspects of the corerequires exercises done utilizingall planes of movement.1.Roll Downs2.Side Lying Sequence3.Swimming4.Plank5.Side Plank Kick and Twist

The Big 5 Strength Moves1:1 strength ratios betweenopposite muscles insure physiological balance.1.Walking Lunge2.Wall Squat / Wall Sit3.Heel Roll / Hip Lift4.Standing Leg-Side (circles)5.Between The Knees Squeeze

The Big 5 Stretches1.Downward Dog Pose2.Lunge / elbows to the mat3.Pigeon Pose4.Rotary Torso5.Pretzel Stretch

The Big 5 Plyometrics1.Depth Jump2.Over and Back3.Leaping Lunge4.Hop Squats5.Burpees



Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County2750 Main Ave. (970) 375-0010The Boys & Girls Club offers diversified programs whichinspire, educate and build relationships in a safe andfriendly environment. Anyone between the ages of 6 and 18 years old can join for $15 per year. Open 3 p.m.- 7 p.m. Mon. - Thurs., and 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. on Fridays.

Chapman Hill Ice Rink500 Florida Rd. (970) 375-7395Ice skating is a great family activity. There are lessonsavailable and pick-up hockey games throughout the win-ter. Open seasonally from October through April.

Durango Community Recreation Center2700 Main Ave. (970) 375-7300The 71,557-square-foot facility offers many amenitiesincluding an enormous swimming pool and hot tub section, gymnasium, indoor track, aerobics room, climb-ing wall and racquetball courts. There are also youth

programs and babysitting available. Open Mon. - Fri. 5:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Durango Sports Club1600 Florida Rd. (970) 259-2579www.durangosportsclub.comThe club’s goal is to allow members and guests toachieve their health and fitness goals by utilizing state-of-the-art fitness equipment in a spacious, comfortableatmosphere, with expert guidance and instruction bytrained and certified fitness professionals. Get ready for those winter sports with our spinning classes, pilatesclasses, yoga classes, physical therapists, personal train-ers and more. A “ski fit” class is available during Octoberand November at the Durango Sports Club Open Mon. -Fri. 6 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sun. 9 a.m. -6 p.m. Check their website for class schedules.

Indoor Activities

A “ski fit” class is available duringOctober and November at the Durango Sports ClubPhoto: Herald file


Home of the DenverBroncos and Avalanche

Hockey Action!


GEAR UP FOR THE ELEMENTS

Story by Becky Rockis

Inset photo:Sven Brunso

Product photosDavid Ohman

Photo StylistBecky Rockis


Today, there is a plethora of choices foroutdoor apparel. The outdoor industryremains in the forefront of innovation.Each season, fabrics, insulation, dura-bility and technical merit is improved.Fabrics once out of favor, have beenrevisited and retooled. Wool has onceagain become a product of choice

among outdoor enthusiasts. Softshell, one of the syn-thetic fabrics that gave rise to the short-lived fad of theleisure suit, has gained a following for its extraordinarybreathability and water repellency. Lamination techniquesof waterproof membranes have improved causing shellsto become more durable and lighter weight. Syntheticinsulations have greater loft and warmth. Waterproofbreathable fabric, combined with higher quality goosedown makes for a jacket that can withstand anythingMother Nature throws ones way.

Companies spend exorbitant amounts of moneydeveloping scientific methodologies to determine the tem-perature ratings, waterproofness, static electricity emis-sions, maximum breathability, durability of water repellen-cy and weight reduction of their products. These ratingsare Nirvana to the gear fanatic and serve as one tool inthe quiver to begin narrowing down one’s option whenpurchasing new products. Great advice from parents allacross the USA: don’t jump off the bridge because some-body told you to. This old adage has meaning whenchoosing outdoor apparel because no body type is theexact same as another. What works for one person maynot be the item that will work for you.

The most important element in selecting outdoorclothing is having an understanding the physiology ofyour body and the impact your activity of choice will haveon it. Let’s simplify this by asking a few simple questions:

1. Do I have a hot or cold physiology?

2. Do I sweat like a pig or just become slightly dewy?

3. Is the activity I am pursuing active or sedentary?

4. When I stop the activity, will I need something to maintain my body temperature level, bring it downor elevate it?

5. What are the most extreme conditions that I might encounter?

Outdoor clothing should be thought of as gear. Attimes, one’s life is dependent upon it. The latest tech-nologies utilized in the production of quality outdoorapparel come at a cost; premium products equal premi-um price. Yet with cost comes longevity and value.I have a bright red Mountain Hardwear Exposure jacketthat was purchased in 1994. The price for it seemedastronomical at the time. To this day, and through

(Continued on page 19)


This jacket is built for tough duty inextreme cold conditions. Nevertheless,there is also a need to layer with the latest in light-weight fabrics that keepyou warm and dry without the bulk.

When it comes to shopping for snowshoes, there are a lot of options. Makeyour choice based on your height andweight, as well as the type of snowshoeing you will be doing.

Photos: David Ohman

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numerous washings, it still functions as the designers intended. Yes, it looks a bitfaded after all these years, and, while Ihave more or less retired this old jacket, ifanything defines real value for the dollarsspent, this is it.

Due to the investment incurred whenpurchasing winter outdoor apparel, severalitems should be considered before handingover one’s hard earned cash, especially intoday’s economy.

1. Find a store with staff and ownership with the experience, products and customer service (before, during and after the sale) that you can trust.Use their knowledge and expertise for recommendations. A partnership should be formed when purchases are made that doesn’t end when you walk out the door.

2. Plan for the worst case scenario regarding the activities and weather conditions in the backcountry you might encounter and choose the product(s) that will meet those criteria.

3. Understand your personal physio-logy and how your gear will respond to the activity in which you are participating.

4. Look for components with multiple uses.

A key component after any outdooractivity is the decompression; sitting aroundwith friends, drinking a beer and discussingwhat took place. Usually the conversationcenters on misery; gear failure, bad weatherand aching muscles. Wouldn’t it be great ifgear and clothing functioned just as it wasintended and you actually took just whatyou needed?

So what’s the lesson here? Do yourresearch, buy the gear that’s right for you,and have a great time without the regrets.

Becky Rockis and her brother, Ben, are co-owners of the Backcountry Experiencein Durango. For more information on back-country equipment, call 970.247.5830 orvisit www.bcexp.com

Along with your choice of cold weather clothes,

don’t forget to pack these essentials:

Compass and GPS

Plenty of water

Snacks for energy

First aid kit

A roll of toilet paper

Sun block

Waterproof matches

A sharp knife

Flashlight with extra batteries


Durango

Backcountry Experiencewww.bcexp.com1205 Camino del Rio (970) 247-5830

The Boarding Haus2607 Main Ave.(970) 259-8182

Bubba’s Boards at DurangoMountain Resort1 Skier Place(970) 259-7377

Ski Barn3533 North Main Ave.(800) 796-7472www.skibarndurango.com

Hassle Free Sportswww.hasslefreesports.com2615 Main Ave.(970) 259-3874

Inferno Snowboardswww.infernosnowboardshop.com1001 Main Ave & 2876 Main Ave(970) 259-8669 • (970) 259-2818

Gardenswartz OutdoorsE. 8th & Main(970) 259-6696

Gold Medal Sports atDurango Mountain Resortwww.goldski.com49617 Hwy 550(888) 959-1063

Pine Needle Mountaineeringwww.pineneedle.com835 Main Ave(800) 607-0364

Second Avenue Sportswww.2ndavesports.com600 E. Main Ave(970) 247-4511

Pagosa Springs

Pagosa Ski Rentalswww.skipagosa.com350 Pagosa St (970) 264-2866

Switchback Mountainwww.switchbackpagosa.com135 Country Center Dr. Ste E(866) 829-0339

Summit Ski & Sportswww.summitski.org 172 E. Pagosa St.(800) 332-9653

Where’s the Gear?When venturing outdoors in the winter, it pays to know how to bundle up to stay warm and dry. And if playingin the outdoors is your calling, you’ll want to know where to find the right gear and advice for you.


BackcountryRecreation

The San Juan National Forest is a winterwonderland. However, exploring the back-country during the winter takes experience,skill and extreme precaution. Being pre-pared is the best way to avoid danger whiletaking part in winter activities. Check out

the story on dressing for winter in the backcountry on page 16.

The San Juan Public Lands Center provides thesehelpful suggestions for those planning to head intothe backcountry:

Call for a weather/avalanche forecast.

Let someone know your destination and expected time ofreturn.

Never go alone and remember that your group is only asstrong as its weakest member.

Avoid hypothermia: dress in layers with waterproof andwindproof outergarments.

Don’t cross frozen water unless you know the thicknessof the ice.

Always Take with You:

An avalanche beacon and show shovel.

A map and compass.

Tools and spare equipment parts.

Extra clothing and space blanket.

A flashlight with extra batteries, and first aid/survival kit.

A lighter or waterproof matches.

Non-perishable food and water.

Avalanche Precautions:

Carry an avalanche transceiver and know how to use it.

Always cross open areas one at a time.

Know the snowpack i.e. dig a snowpit, check currentsnow conditions.

Avoid convex pitches.

If Caught in an Avalanche:

Make swimming motions. Try to stay on top and to theside of the slide.

Keep mouth closed.

If possible, discard equipment such as skis, poles, snow-board, snowshoes.

As you come to a stop, try to make an air space in frontof your face.

Remember: the best way to survive an avalanche is toavoid it.

Hesperus Ski Patrol will be conducting avalanchesafety classes in January. Advanced registration isnecessary and class size is limited. For more infor-mation, call (970) 247-4617


The Dog Days of Winter

If you’ve ever wondered what it might belike to travel back in time, wonder nomore. There are no rockets, jet packs,suborbital flights, or space stations. Youcan’t even measure your propulsion sys-tem in horsepower ratings. Now imagineyourself behind a team of huskies pullingat their traces and propelling you across

the snow covered expanse of wilderness.This is not only “low tech” travel, it’s a great

opportunity to experience what it was like beforeATV’s, snowmobiles, snow cats and lift lines.

As real life adventures go, you will agree,this one’s a howl. (Continued on page 24)

Story by David OhmanPhotos courtesy of Gretchenand Greg Dubit of the DurangoDog Ranch


Your first step to winter nirvana is to contact theDurango Dog Ranch, operated by Gretchen and GregDubit. Along with an experienced guide for this journey,brace yourself for the inter-active ride of your life. For thisis not your basic tour through snow covered vistas. You'lllearn the names of your dogs in the team and actuallylearn how to mush. Which means, everyone gets achance to drive the sled!

Once you're on the trail, you'll willingly give yourselfover to the experience, perhaps even forgetting what dayit is. This is your time machine in a pristine time warp; nogasoline engines with the inescapable exhaust fumesand noise to shatter the moment. Instead, the soundsfrom your dog team will seem like a siren call bondingwith the dogs is quite common as you depend on eachother in a symbiosis going back centuries.

The Dubits have 10 years of permitted forest use in

The Durango Dog Ranch is the organizerand one of the sponsors for the San JuanStage Race, a grueling 125 mile race overfour days at different venues. The racebenefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

“We’re ready when you

are, Captain Greg”


the backcountry. And with eight trailheads to choose fromin the San Juan National Forest, you’ll work your waynear Jackson Lake out of Mancos. The Durango DogRanch's reputation reaches out to Purgatory andDurango Mountain Resort. So the Dubits also offer dogsledding in the Molas Pass area. This is usually an earlywinter experience because the pass can close after aparticularly harsh snow storm, even closing for weeks on end.

The high season for sledding with Durango DogRanch runs from December 24-January 25. Since reser-vations fill up very quickly, it’s advised that you make yourreservations no later than Thanksgiving. Their other busy season runs from Valentine’s Day to the end of March.

Now, I would suffer a huge case of Swedish LutheranGuilt if I failed to mention that proceeds from the SanJuan Stage Race will benefit the Cystic FibrosisFoundation. The Dubits are co-sponsors and the organiz-ers for the race held January 20-24. If you would like tobe a sponsor for this worthy cause, call Gretchen or Gregat 970.259.0694.

For details and reservations for your personal dog sledadventure, call 970.259.0694 or email [email protected] visit www.durangodogranch.com.

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Southwest Colorado Ski Areas

Durango Mountain Resort

Ranked as one of America’s premier family-oriented ski resorts, DMR is located 25miles north of Durango, Colorado, on U.S.Highway 550 in the San Juan NationalForest. Annual snowfall is about 260 inch-es. With its picturesque setting covering

2,500 acres on National Forest Service land, 85 trails aremaintained on 1,325 acres. Snowmaking equipment nowspans 250 acres of the resort’s maintained acreage withsnowmaking coverage beneath nine of the resort’s tenlifts. At the resort’s tubing hill you can slide down a 600-foot-long track on special tubes.

Purgatory Village Center has ski and snowboardrentals, restaurants, a small grocery store and deli, andsports shop. There are several on-mountain restaurantsand food outlets. Purgy’s Restaurant was included in theresort’s massive remodeling a year ago. So when the liftsclose for the day, stick around after 6 p.m. when the tablelinens come out and the fine dining begins. Among theirmany menu offerings, Purgy’s serves up one of the bestrib-eye steaks in the Four Corners.

Durango Mountain Resort offers ski school/lift packages and beginner packages for first-time skiers

and snowboarders and a children’s lesson/lift ticket package. Some programs require reservations.

DMR’s Village Center and the mountain have gonethrough some updates including new and expandedtrails, and facilities over the summer. For updates, call(970) 247-9000 or visit www.durangomountainresort.com

DMR At a GlanceElevation at base 8,793’Elevation at summit 10,822’Vertical drop 2,029’Skiable acres 1,325Resort acres 2,500Longest run 2 milesBeginner trails 21%Intermediate 46%Advanced/expert 33%Chairlift hours 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The Nordic CenterVisit www.durangonordic.org/NordicCenter.htm or call (970) 385-2114

Durango Mountain Resort was voted one of America’stop family-friendly ski resorts going into the 2008-2009season. With plenty of snow, wide open trails and a courteous staff, the 2009-2010 should easily exceed visitors’ expectations Photo: David Ohman


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Hesperus Ski AreaHesperus Ski Area, just west of Durango, is a small,

friendly, inexpensive place to ski day and night. It has 75acres of skiable terrain, featuring a 700-foot vertical drop,and served by one double chairlift. When the snow getsdeep, the oak brush terrain can be excellent. Don't let thissmall mountain fool you - it has challenging runs foradvanced level skiers too. The hill has nine alpine runs.Approximately 90% of the terrain is lighted until 9 p.m.,including a lighted snowboard park. A beginner's area isserviced by a rope tow. Both group and private lessonsfor downhill, telemark and snowboarding are available forall levels and abilities. Call (970) 259-3711 for informa-tion, or visit www.skihesperus.com

Chapman Hill As an extremely family-friendly venue, Chapman Hill

serves as Durango's in-town ski area and winter sportscenter. The hill, located on the east side of Florida Road,provides terrain for beginner and intermediate skiers, witha vertical drop of 775 feet. The area offers skiers andsnowboarders two rope tows, an ice skating rink, and asupervised warming house with hot drinks and snacks.Both the lifts and ski hill are supervised by trained staff.Snowmaking offers a longer season. The typical skiingseason for Chapman Hill is from early January throughMarch, depending on the weather. Lessons are avail-able. (970) 375-7300

The Chapman Hill Ice Rink is open seasonally fromOctober through April. Lessons are available for childrenand adults. Ice Hockey is popular at the rink, as well.Winter leagues are a great way to hone your skills andmake some friends. Pick up hockey games are ongoingas well. Call (970) 375-7395 to find out more.

Silverton MountainSilverton Mountain is a facility for advanced and expertskiers and snowboarders. The one double chairlift offersaccess to steep and deep powder-filled skiing. The highelevation ensures an early and long season. An easyhike to 13,300 feet offers an approximately 3,000-footvertical drop. Guided skiing is available in November,December and April. For ticket prices and season opening date, call (970) 387-5706 or visit www.silvertonmountain.com

Kendall Mountain Ski & Recreation AreaLocated in Silverton, Colorado, with an average annualsnowfall of 200 inches, Kendall Mountain is open for family fun. The ski lift operates Fridays-Sundays, holidays,and everyday during winter vacation (Dec. 19 - Jan. 4).The recreation area also offers 2 sledding hills and freeice skating. There are trails for snowmobiling, cross-coun-try skiing and snowshoeing also. Affordable equipmentand warm snacks are available. The lodge can bereserved for retreats, conferences and weddings. The ski area can be reserved for private groups on weekdays.For details, call (970) 387-5528 or (970) 387-0182 or visit www.skikendall.com

Kendall Mountain At a Glance:Elevation at base: 9,300'Vertical Drop: 240'Beginner trails (2): 50%Intermediate (1): 25%Advanced (1): 25%

Kendall Mountain2009/2010 Special Events:Yule Log and Sugar Plum FestivalSki Back in TimeSki for TreasureSnowscape Winter Festival

Telluride Ski ResortTelluride Ski Resort nearly doubled in size after the inau-gural season of Prospect Bowl (2001-2002) brought anadditional 733 acres to the mountain now totaling 1,700acres. With its three high-speed quads, Prospect Bowlprovides a level of connectivity to the mountain, linkingthree interconnected mountain faces with varyingdegrees of difficulty. The broad, gentle runs of theMeadows are suitable for beginners and novice skiers.Sunshine Peak and Ute Park enables skiers to build confidence on long runs and gentle rolling slopes.

Behind the ridge from the resort’s Front Face, Lifts 4,5 and 6 and Prospect Bowl make about half of Telluride’sterrain. More intermediate runs are located on the FrontRidge. Telluride has 18 Total: 2 high speed gondolas, 7high-speed quads, 1 fixed quad, 2 triples, 2 doubles, 2

Located in Durango-proper, family-oriented ChapmanHill is very child-friendly. Photo: Jerry McBride

Ski Areas (continued)


surface lifts and 2 magic carpets. The gondola is free forfoot passengers. For updates on ticket prices, call (800) 778-8581 or visit www.tellurideskiresort.com

Telluride At A GlanceElevation at base 8,725’Elevation at summit 12,260’Vertical drop 3,845’Acres of skiing 2,000+Longest run 4.6 milesAverage snowfall 309 inchesBeginner trails 23%Intermediate 36%Advanced 41%Hours 9:00 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Wolf Creek Ski Area Located east of Pagosa Springs atop the Rockies in

the Rio Grande National Forest, Wolf Creek is a powderhound’s haven with more snowfall than any other area inthe state: approximately 465 natural inches annually.Highway closures from snow storms may occur so checkwith the resort before leaving home.

The more traditional terrain at Wolf Creek (500 acresand approximately 50 trails) is serviced by two triplechairlifts, one double, 1 quad, 1 quad detachable, onehigh speed poma lift, and one magic carpet. Unique to

Wolf Creek is the 1,000 acres serviced by the Albertaquad. This lift gives access to steep chutes and manyintermediate powder glades that adventuresome skiersand boarders enjoy. Cross-country skiing is also avail-able.

The ski school offers individual, group and privatelessons as well as the popular Wolf Pup program for children. Snowboard and telemark lessons are alsoavailable. For ticket information (970) 264-5639 or visit www.wolfcreekski.com

Wolf Creek At A GlanceElevation at base 10,300’Elevation at summit 11,904’Vertical drop 1,604’Skiable acres 1,600Longest Run 2 milesAverage Snowfall 465 inchesBeginner terrain 20%Intermediate 35%Advanced 25%Expert 20%Lift hours 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.Ticket hours 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Durango and the San Juan Mountains are asnowmobiler's paradise. Various companieslead snowmobile tours and also rent snow-mobiles for you to venture out on your own.

Our area is also famous for itsavalanche activity, so make sure to be pre-

pared. You can check out the Colorado AvalancheInformation Center for the latest conditions. Also, pleasetreat slower folks (on skis and snowshoes) with courtesy.For more information, visit www.godurango.com/winter/snowmobiling.asp

The San Juan Sledders Snowmobile Club ofDurango maintains all five trails including Purgatory SkiArea Trailhead, Missionary Ridge Trailhead, Lemon DamTrailhead, Vallecito Reservoir Trailhead, and BeaverCreek Meadows. The trails offer groomed trail riding, as well as meadow and mountain play areas.

EASY: Boggy DrawOver 30 miles of trails. Directions: Turn west off Hwy 145in Dolores on 11th St. (CR 31). Climb hill and go 1.5miles. Turn right on CR W, go 1 mile to parking area onleft side of road. Parking lot is plowed. Snow conditionsare variable because of the lower elevation.

INTERMEDIATE: Fall Creek TrailOccasionally groomed 6.5 miles. Directions: From

Pagosa Springs, go 19.3 miles northeast on Hwy 160.


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The trail is on the south side of the highway between thetop and bottom of the pass about a mile below the WolfCreek Trail. Look for the sign to Fall Creek Road. Higheravalanche danger here. Groomed by Wolf Creek TrailBlazers Club. Some commercial snowmobile operations.

DIFFICULT: Molas PassTwenty-three miles of groomed trails. Directions: FromDurango, go north 40 miles on Hwy 550 to the top ofMolas Pass. There is roadside parking at Andrews andLittle Molas and plowed parking lots at Molas Pass andMolas Lake. Trails are groomed by the Silverton Snow-mobile Club. Commercial snowmobile and snow catoperations are in the area. Restrooms at the parkingareas. A few local snowmobile tour companies include:

Durango Ice Pirates(970) 247-3706 www.dgoicepirates.com

Outlaw Snowmobiling Tours(970) 259-1800 www.outlawtours.com

Snowmobile Adventures(970) 385-2141 www.snowmobileadventures.com

This must see home is within 30 days of beingcomplete. What a great stucco home with lots of

space, an open floor plan, jack and jill bathroom, walkin closets in every room downstairs, bonus room/4thbedroom upstairs, planter shelves, great views, largewindows, Cherry wood floors, and the lot backs to awildlife corridor. MLS#614466 $308,500

Adorable farmhouse was originally constructedcirca 1900 and still has a number of it's original

details. The house boasts a gourmet kitchen with woodcabinets, granite countertops, and a built in trash com-pactor. This home also offers a generator and extensivelandscaping. MLS#628481 $599,000

Minutes from National Forest (Spring Creek). 3bedrooms 2 bath home with a great room, hard-

wood floors, vaulted ceilings lined with aspen and aflow of interior space that is pleasing and functional. Abonus room above the garage makes for a perfect hobbyroom or office. Long open views of the La Plata's.MLS#623566 $517,400

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Cross Country Skiing & Snow ShoeingXC Skiing

EASY: Chicken Creek Cross Country Ski AreaQuiet, uncrowded, friendly and community run, ChickenCreek Cross Country Ski Area is a volunteer-maintainedand donation-funded Nordic area within the San JuanNational Forest just minutes from Mancos. Enjoy over 25kilometers of machine groomed classic and skate trailsranging from beginning to intermediate level. To findChicken Creek Ski Area, travel north from Mancos onHwy 184, turn east on County Road 40 and watch for thesign about 3 miles ahead. There is no charge, but yourdonation ensures Chicken Creek's success. Enjoy fan-tastic cross-country skiing - Mancos-style.

EASY: Haviland Lake3-5 miles of ungroomed trails and roads. Directions: FromDurango, go 17 miles north on Hwy 550. Turn right at Haviland Lake to plowed parking area. Commercial sleigh

rides operate in this area - careful. Toilets at Haviland campground. Don't drive past the gate.

INTERMEDIATE: Plumtaw Trail21 miles of groomed trails. Directions: From Hwy 160 inPagosa, turn east on Lewis St., then immediately northon 5th St., which becomes Fourmile Rd. (CR 400). Go6.5 miles north to the end of a plowed road. Roadsideparking only. Leave room for others to turn around. Donot block the gate or driveway to private property.Groomed by Wolf Creek Trail Blazers Club.

DIFFICULT: Echo Basin30+ miles (sometimes 12 miles are groomed).Directions: From Mancos, go 2.5 miles east on Hwy 160and turn north on CR 44. Go 3 miles to the ForestService gate. Plowed parking lot. Access maintained byFour Corners Trail Club. Groomed by the San JuanSledders Club.

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DIFFICULT: Andrews LakeWith seemingly endless options, this area is a gem.There are no groomed trails but year after year users create a network of trails to follow. Located just beforeMolas Pass on Hwy 550, look for a small parking lot onthe east side of the highway.

Snowshoeing

EASY: House Creek5+ miles. Directions: Turn west off Hwy 145 in Doloreson 11th St. (CR 31). Climb hill and go 7 miles (CR 31becomes FS #526). Look for signs to House Creekcampground & FS #528. There is roadside parking, butplowing can be sporadic. Snow conditions are variablebecause of the lower elevation. Follow directional signs.

INTERMEDIATE: Beaver Meadows25+ miles of groomed trails. Directions: From Bayfield, go 7 miles east on Hwy 160. Turn north on FS road#135, go 2 miles. Roadside parking. There are twoaccess points from Hwy 160. Groomed by the San JuanSledders Club.

DIFFICULT: Wolf Creek PassHundreds of acres of ungroomed backcountry terrain.Directions: From Pagosa Springs, go 23 miles northeastof Hwy 160 to the top of the pass. There is a plowedparking lot. Please comply with signs for voluntary useareas. Higher avalanche danger. Snowmobiles are prohibited in the adjacent Weminuche Wilderness.

DIFFICULT: Andrews LakeWith seemingly endless options, this area is a real gem.There are no groomed trails but year after year users create a network of trails to follow. Located just beforeMolas Pass on Hwy 550.

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E2NDAVET

ucked away a few steps and one block eastof Main Avenue in Durango, is an enclave ofshops, restaurants and historic hotels makingquite a name for themselves.

Stroll this avenue from end to end, including thejump around the 9-R School District offices.Examples include: For the Birds, down to CanyonMusic, the Rochester Hotel and Leland House,Artisano’s, and the Cyprus Cafe, Mutu’s ItalianKitchen, and Gazpacho’s New Mexican Restaurant.

This neat and tidy avenue is where you will findexcellent dining and shopping.


Photo: David Ohman


While winter in Southwest Colorado is usually synonymous with outdoorsports, events and venues for the artsand culture don’t go into hibernationaround here. The region’s reputationfor cultural enrichment is sustained

with exciting art exhibitions and live entertainmentthroughout those cold and snowy months.

Durango Arts Center Programs (970) 259-2606 www.durangoarts.org Nov. 20 - Dec. 24: Holiday Art OléJan. 8-31: Four Corners Commission Juried ShowFeb. 6-28: Invitational Ceramic Show

Durango Independent Film FestivalMarch 3-7, 2010: Bringing the Best in Independent Film tothe Durango Community! Visit www.durangofilm.org forshow times and locations.

Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis CollegeFor concert schedule and ticket information, call (970)247-7657 or visit www.durangoconcerts.com

Durango Choral Society Winter ScheduleFor concert information including dates, performers andtickets, visit www.durangochoralsociety.com

Theaters

Abbey Theatre128 E. College Dr. (970) 385-1711 Featuring local and independent filmmakers as well asinternational films and concerts. Concessions and full baron site. Call for show times or visit their web site atwww.abbeytheatre.com

Gaslight Cinema102 East 5th St. (970) 247-8133The Gaslight Theatre, featureing foreign, independent andcommercial films, is located in the heart of Durango.www.storytellertheatres.com

Durango Stadium 9900 Translux Dr. (970) 247-9799The High 5 Cinema is located in the Durango Mall park-ing lot with plenty of free parking. The theater featuresseven screens, stadium seating and Digital SurroundSound. www.storytellertheatres.com

Arts & Entertainment


Art GalleriesThere is an abundance of art galleries in SouthwestColorado including:

Durango Arts Center 802 E. 2nd Ave., Durango (970) 259-2606Visual and cultural arts for the enrichment of the individ-ual, the community of Durango and Southwest Colorado.www.durangoarts.org

The Earthen Vessel115 W. 9th St. (970) 247-1281Features Southern Ute Reservation exhibits, and rotatingexhibits. www.earthenvessel.com

Ellis Crane Gallery 934 Main Ave., Durango (970) 382-9855Represents local and national artists. Beautiful art,unique jewelry, wedding bands and engagement rings.www.elliscranegallery.com

Image Counts835 Main Ave., Durango (970) 382-0055Fine art, nature photography and quality custom framing.www.imagecounts.com


“Summer’s End” byRudy Eccher (oil on

canvas) from theJanuary 2009 Four

Corners Commissionart exhibition at the

Durango Art Center.Photo: Yodit Gidey


Art Galleries (continued)

Open Shutter Gallery735 Main Avenue, Durango (970) 382-8355Specializing in fine art photography. Their services also include photography classes and local tours.www.openshuttergallery.com

Rain Dance Gallery945 Main Ave., Durango (970) 375-2708Representing American Indian artists & designers, featuring sculptures, pottery, jewelry, weavings, baskets,paintings and furniture.

Sorrell Sky Gallery870 Main Ave., Durango (970) 247-3555Specializing in the art of western lives, featuring work by acclaimed western artists. www.sorrelsky.com

Toh-Atin Gallery145 W. 9th St., Durango (970) 247-8277A high-quality dealer in Native American and Southwestart with a nationwide reputation as one of the finest galleries of its kind in the country. www.toh-atin.com

Termar Trends780 Main Ave., Durango (970) 247-8277Offering a unique selection of art, crafts, furniture, jewelry and home accessories. www.termartrends.com

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Just for KidsNov 20 - Dec. 28:Polar Express TrainThe award-winning book comesto life on this magical journey.Visit www.durangotrain.com orcall for exact excur-sion datesand times. Photo: Yodit Gidey

Nov 20 - Dec. 28: Polar Express TrainThe award-winning book comes to life on this magicaljourney. Visit www.durangotrain.com or call for exactexcur-sion dates and times.

Nov. 27: Sing with Santa & Tree LightingCelebrate the coming of Christmas by meeting at thetrain station, then carol your way to Buckley Park to decorate the community tree. For more information, visit www.DurangoBusiness.org

Dec. 6: Yule Log Celebration & Sugar Plum Festival inSilverton All children are invited to participate in this historic treasure hunt for the Yule Log at the Kendall MountainRecreation Area. The child that finds the Yule Log firstwill light the ceremonial fire. A caroling parade will makeits way back to the Community Center where the SugarPlum Fairy will await with holiday treats, hot apple ciderand hot chocolate. Starts at 12:30 p.m.Call (970) 903-5647


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Dec. 19: Winter Wonderland Holiday Celebration Enjoy this Community Potluck Dinner under the glow ofChristmas lights and mistletoe at the Kendall MountainCommunity Center. Bring a “red” or “green” dish to sharewith a Mexican flair. This celebration features holidaytheme tables. So pick a theme, reserve your table anddecorate! Dinner from 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. and dance from8 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Call (970) 903-5647.

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade Ring in the New Year as you watch a torchlight parade ofskiers light up the snowy mountain at DMR, followed byfireworks in the base area. Call (970) 247-9000.

Jan. 22-24: Snowscape Winter Carnival/Parade ofLights & Ceremonial BonfireBroomball Tournament, Annual High Altitude SnowshoeRace 5K & 10K Backcountry Loops and the YukigassenSnow Battle, a modern approach to the age-old snowballfight. Also enjoy the fireworks display, party at the GrandImperial Hotel, and Silverton's Alley Challenge CrossCountry Ski Race. The race starts at the KendallMountain Recreation Center. Call (970) 903-5647

Museums

Durango Discovery Kids, located at 802 E. 2nd Avenue,offers hands-on learning, interactive exhibits and work-shops that stimulate the mind and imagination. Manycraft and science activities are offered. For a completeschedule, call (970) 259-9234 .

The Discovery Museum at the Powerhouse, located at 1333 Camino del Rio., by the river. The DiscoveryMuseum at the Powerhouse invites visitors of all ages to explore a frontier of new ideas in energy and sustain-ability. The Powerhouse has many children’s programs.Visit www.durangodiscovery.org or call (970) 422-2034for more information. OPENING IN 2010


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Trimble Hot Springs

Rejuvenate and relieve those tightmuscles after a full day of skiing bysoaking in the therapeutic waters atTrimble Hot Springs. Historicallyknown as “healing waters” due to themany minerals contained in the water, the hotsprings relax tight muscles and joints

all year long. There are many other benefits from soak-ing including respiratory and mental health. Thenomadic Ute Indian tribe used the “healing waters” forceremonial and spiritual gatherings up to the mid-1800s.

In 1884, Frank and Rufina Trimble settled at thesprings; Frank began bathing in the springs in hopes ofrelieving old wounds and rheumatism discomfort. Hewas soon pain-free and quickly began spreading word of the healing qualities of the springs. Several firesdestroyed boarding houses and hotels at the hotsprings. The last fire in 1957 caused the business to fold and lay abandoned for more than 30 years.

The source of hot water, volcanic in its origin,comes from underneath the La Plata Mountains. Thewater was tested by a Swiss governmental institution in Berne, Switzerland, which recommended the springsfor therapeutic use. The Trimble Hot Springs Spa offersa variety of services including, therapeutic/Swedishmassages, deep tissue massage, herbal oil wraps, radiant salt glows and hot oil scalp treatment. There are also classes in Tai Chi and Yoga, and music everySunday, weather permitting. *Winter Hours (Oct. - May)10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.Friday & Saturday. For more information, call (970) 247-0111 or visit www.trimblehotsprings.com

*Hours are subject to change without notice


The Four Corners area offers some ofthe best public fishing in the nation.There are more than 80 differentspecies of both warm and cold waterfish in Colorado. From cutthroat troutto smallmouth bass, brook trout tocrappie, they’re all here in our beauti-ful scenic rivers, streams and lakes,

including the largest wilderness area in the state, theWeminuche Wilderness. The world famous San JuanRiver has been known to produce some incredible catch-es too. Discover the joy of reeling in a rainbow trout orjust relax next to one of the many reservoirs and lakes.Durango is known as “dry-fly heaven” for all the fly fishing enthusiasts.

Fishing Season DatesFrom Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, the waters of Colorado areopen to fishing, except as otherwise noted in their individ-ual area's regulations.

Fishing Licenses A fishing license is required for people 16 years of ageand older. Children under the age of 16 and over the ageof 64 are not required to have a fishing license. Fishing in Colorado without a license is only allowed on the firstfull weekend of June each year. All other rules and regu-lations apply. For information on current fees and dates,visit www.wildlife.state.co.us/fishing for complete information.

Great Places to Fish:

Vallecito ReservoirPrimary fish are pike, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bassand trout. To get there: take County Road 240, east ofDurango, to Vallecito Road, which leads to the dam,about 23 miles total.

Winter Fishing in the Four Corners

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Haviland LakeStocked with trout and easily accessible by people of allages. To get there: Take US Hwy 550 north about 17miles, between Rockwood and Durango Mountain Resort.Turn right at the Rapp Corral.

Animas RiverThe river flows from Silverton through the town ofDurango and into New Mexico, offering excellent trophyfishing, especially brown trout. Specific areas of the riverrun through private property without public access.

Lemon ReservoirThe lake contains brown and rainbow trout and kokaneesalmon. Take Florida Road east and look for the signs.

San Juan RiverTrophy catch rainbow and brown trout on the San Juan.There is a two fish limit. Check local information sourcesfor complete details.


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Durango may be known for its casual lifestyle,yet there is a bounty of great dining oppor-tunities from fast-casual to fine dining, manyof which are dedicated to serving locallygrown meats and produce. Here’s a cross-section view of the many offerings available.

For more great restaurants pick up a Flavor of Durangoor visit www.durangomenu.com.

Cyprus Café725 E. Second Ave. (970) 385-6884Offering innovative Mediterranean cuisine in a historicVictorian setting. Many different options are available in-cluding meats, seafood, pastas and vegetarian dishesusing local ingredients. Full bar and wine list. Call forhours. www.cypruscafe.com

Cosmopolitan919 Main Ave. (970) 259-2898With a contemporary-yet-comfortable ambience, “Cosmo”is known for excellent food at affordable prices while taking elegance to an art form.www.cosmosdurango.com

Griego’s Mexican Food2603 Main Ave. (970) 259-3558Self-described as “The only REAL Mexican food,”at reasonable prices, the menu offerings include a widerange of authentic Mexican selections. There are someAmerican items on the menu for those with the need.

Gazpacho New Mexican Restaurant431 E. 2nd Ave. (970) 259-9494Voted Durango’s “favorite Mexican food and margaritas,this is traditional northern New Mexican cooking featuringhot red and green chile grown for Gazpacho. Specialties:aged tequila margaritas, carne adovada, tamales, chilerellenos and stuffed sopapillas. Large vegetarian selection. Open 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Mon. - Sun.

Ore House147 East College Ave. (970) 247-5707With a large menu, this place is well-known for theirselection of steaks and lobster. Voted Durango’s BestSteakhouse. www.orehouserestaurant.com

Dining in Durango


As a town with a rich history ofranch and farm life, Bayfield’sequestrian events run year‘round. Photo: Herald file


Bayfield

Bayfield is a charming and friendlytown just 18 miles east of Durango.The town was named after William A.Bay, who laid out the town in 1898and later established it in 1906.Bayfield has continued to serve as asupply town and social center for thesurrounding farmers and ranchers

and has grown rapidly in the past 30 years from 320residents in 1970 to around 1,800 now.

The town is a mix of the old and the new west andis nestled in the beautiful Pine River Valley. It is situateddownstream from Vallecito Lake on the banks of thePine River. The earliest residents of the valley were Ute

Indians. It wasn't until the late 1800s that the region was settled by non-Indians. The first herd of cattle wasbrought to the area in 1875 and the valley was furthersettled as ranchers discovered the fertile soil.

For more information call the Bayfield Chamber ofCommerce at (970) 884-7372 or visit their web site at www.bayfieldchamber.org.


Cortez

When you drive into Cortez, you havereached the “Heart of SouthwestColorado.” It is also the gateway toMesa Verde National Park, one of themore popular places to visit in theregion. The area surrounding Cortez

features the La Plata Mountains to the east, the GreatSage Plain to the southwest, and the Ute Mountains tothe west.

When it comes to winter sports in Cortez, snow isnot always required. Even a March rodeo will bring folksout into a chilly day.

For information on winter events and activities, contactthe Cortez Chamber of Commerce at (970) 565-3414 or visit www.cortezchamber.com

Special Events in Cortez

Nov. 26: Turkey TrotThanksgiving celebration at Parque de Vida.

Nov. 28: Holiday Craft Fair.Over fifty local artisans present handcrafted wares at theMontezme County Annex on North Chestnut andMontezuma Avenue (970) 565-1151

Dec. 3: Taste of the SeasonsFour Seasons Greenhouse & Nursery hosts the Taste of the Seasons; wine tasting with food from area restau-rants and silent auction to benefit United Way ofMontezuma County (970) 565-8274

Dec. 5: Parade of Lights.A Cortez holiday tradition, the Four Corners Board ofRealtors brings the magic of the season to Main Street,Cortez, (970) 565-3701 www.cortezaarearealtors.com

Feb. 6: Sweethearts BallDinner, dancing and art auction at the Cortez Elks Lodgeto benefit the Cortez Cultural Center's Gallery and GiftShop at Main and Market. Call (970) 565-1151 or visitwww.cortezculturalcenter.org

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Dolores

You will be charmed by this little town,located in the spectacular DoloresRiver Valley. The valley was oncehome to the Ancestral Puebloans, andmore than 1,380 archaeological siteswere identified in the Dolores Projectarea prior to the construction of thereservoir. The extensive collections

from those excavations are archived and interpreted atthe Anasazi Heritage Center just north of Dolores, whichis also the headquarters of the Canyons of the AncientsNational Monument.

Dolores Special Events

November: Montezuma County Has TalentMembership competition

Dec. 4: Christmas Tree lighting and Bon-Fire at Town Hall

Dec. 5: Christmas Bazaar at Dolores CommunityCenter Contact Ruby (970) 882-7717

Dec. 12: Open Houses, Poker RunContact the Chamber (970) 882-4018

Dec. 13: Fashion Show at the Ponderosa RestaurantContact Ponderosa Rest. 970-882-7910

Dec. 12-20: Toys for TotsChristmas toys for the needy. Contact the DoloresChamber at 882-4018

Dec. 10: Bon-Fire at Town Hall @ 6:00pmFree candy, cookies and hot chocolate and then librarybedtime story with Santa. Contact the Dolores PublicLibrary 882-4127 or chamber at (970) 882-4018.

Dec. 17: Christmas lighting Contest Judging Town of Dolores Contact Chamber 970-882-4018 or visit www.doloreschamber.com

Your Home for Dolores Bear’s Sports

Photo: Herald file


Ignacio

The Ignacio Area is a multi-ethnic communi-ty situated in a long-time ranching valleywith the La Plata Mountains to the north. Itis also a small town with a very big heart,The early residents were the Ute Indians,primarily the Weminuche.

In 1899, unallotted land in the eastern portion of thereservation was made available to non-Native Americans.At this time the Hall brothers were running the tradingpost and post office. This and the narrow gauge rail sta-tion to the south were all that existed in the way of atown. Hans Aspaas purchased the trading post in 1908.At the same time, the Ute wife of a Civil War veteran,John Taylor, died, and the 169-acre allotment that heinherited was immediately sold to the Halls.

In June of 1910, both the Hall and the Aspaas landswere filed with the La Plata County Clerk and in 1913,Ignacio was incorporated.

Today the town is a supply center for the surroundingSouthern Ute Indian Reservation and ranches and acrossroads for the gas and oil industry. It is also home to Ignacio Bike Week, the Four Corners Motorcycle Rally held every Labor Day weekend.

Ignacio Special Events

Nov. 14: Arts and Crafts Fair 9:00am 3:00pmIgnacio High School

Nov.19: SUCAP Senior Center SouthernUte/Ute Mountain Ute Elder Thanksgiving Dinner

Dec. 4: Ignacio Taste of ChristmasLight parade begins at 6 p.m. with the lighting of thetown’s Christmas tree. Cash prizes awarded to the bestthree parade entries. Food, crafts, music and free photoswith Santa at the Ignacio Elementary School Gym from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

For more information regarding Ignacio’s events, contactEmily Meisner at the Ignacio Chamber of Commerce,(970) 749-9190.

The “Sharing Tree” is an annual holiday program inIgnacio. Photo: Herald File


Mancos

The Mancos Valley continues a 140+year tradition as a center of ranchingat the edge of the San JuanMountains and the National Forest.Watch for cowboys herding cattle onhorseback, log cabins, ranch housesand peaceful hills and fields.

In addition to the archaeologicalresources of Mesa Verde, Mancos is convenient to guestranches, hiking and mountain climbing, fishing and big-game hunting. The La Plata Mountains above Mancosoffer remnants of their historic past in the form of silvermines and mills. The town retains its pioneer flavor with a traditional business district and historic homes, but italso features such amenities as modern lodging and top-notch eateries.

For more information contact the Mancos Chamber of Commerce at (970) 533-7434 or visit www.mancosvalley.com orwww.mancoscolorado.com

Mancos Special Events

Dec. 4 -13: Mancos Old Fashioned ChristmasGreet the holiday season with the tree lighting ceremony,Santa's arrival, “Giving Tree,” the 5K Rudolph Run, towndinner and community band performance, Mancos ValleyChorus performance, the Lions Bazaar and much more.Call (970) 533-7434.

Jan. 20 - 24: Mush! San Juan Stage RacingDon’t miss the San Juan Stage Stop, Colorado’s premiersled dog race. Proceeds from this event benefit theCystic Fibrosis Foundation. This long-distance racedraws some of the best mushers in the world. Meet themushers at the Mancos Community Center for a wel-come dinner. The 2010 race will showcase the beauty of the region starting in Dolores, Colorado and travelingto Mancos, Durango, and Silverton. There will be fourdays of racing along the San Juan Skyway.Call (970) 259-0694 for more information. Visitors canalso enjoy a scenic ride at the Durango Dog Ranch. Forcomplete information, visit www.sanjuanstagerace.com

At the starting gate in Mancos for the San JuanStage Race. Photo: Yodit Gidey


Mesa VerdeM

esa Verde, which means “green table” in Spanish,celebrated 100 years of being a national park in2006. Mesa Verde, the first national park set asideto preserve the works of humankind, was estab-lished in 1906 in order to pro-tect sites built by“pre-Columbian Indians.” Elaborate stone villages

and collective communities were formed by Ancestral Puebloanswhich occupied the area from 600 A.D. to 1300 A.D. There are over4,000 known archeologi-cal sites in Mesa Verde, 600 of which arecliff dwellings. The entrance to the park is 35 miles west of Durangoon US Highway 160.

Luminarias light up Mesa VerdeVisitors are welcome at the Holiday Open House, Dec. 10, from4:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Mesa Verde. Beautiful luminarias give SpruceTree House a golden glow while carolers, Native American perform-ers and light refreshments inspire the holiday spirit. This event isfree. Park waves entry fees. Call (970) 529-4465 for information.

Photo: Herald file


Ouray has been a special destination of worldtravelers for more than 100 years. This smalland intimate community is nestled in someof the most rugged and towering peaks ofthe Rockies. Located at the narrow head of the valley and surrounded on three sides

by snowcapped peaks, Ouray has been eloquently nicknamed the “Switzerland of America.”

Take a step back in time and experience this uniquelandscape. Enjoy the Victorian architecture, friendlymountain people, and a peaceful atmosphere that runson its own time. Relax in therapeutic hot mineral springsand see the awe-inspiring Box Canyon Falls.

Although the town is best known for the Ouray IceFestival, there are many winter activities to enjoy includ-ing backcountry skiing, cross country skiing, ice skating,sledding, and snowmobiling.

Ouray Special Events

December 5 - 6: Elks Club Arts & Crafts SaleOuray Elks Lodge #492, 491 Main Street

December 12: Yule Night in Ouray at 5p.m.Yule night parade with bonfire, caroling, and visitwith Santa at 6pm at Ouray Elks Lodge. LiveNativity.

December 20: Festivus for the Rest of Us6th Avenue Street Party! 4-7pm. Cool carolsand warm spirits! Food and seasonal bever-ages. Bonfires will warm you, so come join thefun! For more information call: (970) 325-4746.

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Fireworks at duskAwesome, loud & powerful! For info onChristmas 2009 events: www.ouraycolorado.com

Jan 7-10: The 15th Annual Ouray IceFestival Premiere ice climbing event!Internationally known as leader of the pack.Open Competition with qualifying rounds and finals.For information, visit www.ourayicefestival.com

Jan 11-15: Chicks with Picks “Totally Chick”Totally Chick is open to women of all abilities from begin-ners to more advanced climbers. For information, visit:www.ourayicefestival.com

Jan 24 - 28: Chicks with Picks “Complete Chicks”Our most popular clinic and one we've been doing thelongest. For information, visit: www.chickswithpicks.net

Jan. 30 - Feb. 1: 2nd Annual Betty Ice BallBetty Ice Ball is a Women's Festival of Ice; put on byChicks with Picks, the premier women's ice climbing program. Live auctions, lectures, and more. For muchmore information, visit: www.chickswithpicks.net

February 1 - 4: Chicks with Picks “The Sampler”They’ve added an EXTRA DAY of climbing to this shortformat to give you a better “taste” of what ice climbing is all about!

The Ice Festival also includesevents working with the non-profitAdaptive Sports group to expandand extend opportunities in wintersports to the disabled.Photo: Herald file

Ouray


PagosaSprings

Looking west toward Pagosa Springs from the westernedge of Wolf Creek Pass, this is a town of spectacularranchlands and vistas at every turn. Photo: David Ohman


Pagosa Springs is a rapidly growingcommunity in a beautiful setting eastof Durango and west of Wolf Creek SkiArea. It is the gateway to theWeminuche Wilderness, Colorado’slargest wilderness area with over492,418 acres of stunning scenery.The town derives its name from the

Ute Indian name “Pagosah,” which means “healing” or“boiling waters.” The Utes discovered the healing powersof the hot springs, a few centuries later, the town still wel-comes travelers seeking a soaking respite in the mineralwater.

Special Events In Pagosa Springs

Nov. 7: Civic Club 34th Annual Holiday Bazaar at theCommunity CenterAnnual holiday bazaar featuring 60 booths with art, jewel-ry, gifts and other items, mostly handmade by local resi-dents. Also a bake sale and raffle and the famous beefbrisket plus other food items in the cafe. All proceeds goto the Ruby Sisson Library. Call (970) 731-5835 for moreinformation.

Dec. 4: Festival of Trees 6:00pm - 8:30pmAnnual event at the Community Center. For moreinformation, call (970) 264-4152.

Dec. 4-5: Parade of StoresTwo shopping days of “no sales tax” sales throughout the Pagosa merchants. For more information, call (970) 264-2360.

Dec. 5: Christmas in PagosaChristmas in Pagosa at the Pagosa Springs Chamber ofCommerce and Visitor Center from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. Photoswith Santa, cookies, lighting of the Chamber at 5:30 pm.For more information call (970) 264-2360.

Dec. 5: Bar D Wranglers Christmas ShowThe Wranglers will perform at the Community Center in Pagosa Springs. For more information, call (970) 247-5753

Dec. 19 @ 4:00pm & Sunday Dec. 20 @ 6:00pm:Celebration ChoirPresented at Mountain Heights Baptist Church, this willbe the second year the “Celebration Choir” performs.For more information call Pastor Wiggers at (970) 731-4384.

Feb. 12-15 WinterFestFor more information, call the Pagosa Springs Chamberof Commerce at (970) 264-2360

❦❦ Conveniently located for all your recreational needs.

❦❦ Great for reunions, special events or weddings

❦❦ Free movie rentals ❦❦ Basketball ❦❦ Barbequers

❦❦ Playground

970-731-5345 970-946-12231-877-301-4129

Ext: 5345 (Toll Free)

Very Affordable RatesImmaculate 1 & 2 bedroom condo units with kitchens at

Laundry Facility,WiFi & Swim/Spa

Nightly • Weekly • Monthly

345 Piedra Rd. Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

EMAIL: [email protected]

• Units are non-smoking • Pets welcome upon approval plus pet fee• Newly remodel Jr. Suited

Look For The Plane!

MMoouunnttaaiinn LLaannddiinnggGGuueesstt QQuuaarrtteerrss

www.mountainlanding.net


Winter is also a time when Pagosa Springs proudly pro-claims its moniker, “Gateway to Wolf Creek Ski Resort”where snow depth exceeds all other resorts in Colorado.And because of the lack of lodging at Wolf Creek,Pagosa Springs bustles with visitors eager to attackthose famous slopes. Photo: David Ohman


Silverton

Getting to Silverton in the winter can be a dicey adventure owing to theblizzards and drifting snow that canshut down travel in the passes on the550 in both directions. Thus, it wouldbe wise to get the latest reports on

mountain weather and road conditions.Silverton is a quiet, high-altitude town sur-

rounded by breathtaking peaks of the San JuanMountains. Located on the upper Animas Riverthe sturdy town has retained its original westerncharacter of wide streets and historical Victorianbuildings. As of now, there is only one pavedroad and the entire town of Silverton has beendesignated a National Historic District by the U.S. Department of the Interior.

For more information, contact the SilvertonChamber of Commerce at (970) 387-5654 or visit www.silvertoncolorado.com>Photo: Jerry McBride


Silverton Events Calendar

Updates will be available at www.SilvertonEvents.com orcall (970) 903-5647.

December 4: Town Tree TrimmingSilverton students decorate the town Christmas tree withhomemade ornaments. www.SilvertonEvents.com or call(970) 903-5647.

December 5: Holiday BazaarLocal craftsmen and artists sell their holiday merchandiseat the American Legion Hall.

December 6: Yule Log Celebration & Sugar PlumFestivalChildren are invited to the Kendall Mountain RecreationArea to search for the Yule Log and all the treasures thatlead to it. The child who finds the Yule Log receives a rideback down the hill to light the ceremonial fire. A carolingparade will then continue into the Community Center andreceive treats from the Sugar Plum Fairy. Families areasked to bring a holiday dessert to share. For information,call (970) 903-5647 or visit www.SilvertonEvents.com.

December 18 -19: Silverton Avalanche SchoolRefresher Course.For information call (970) 799-3406 or visitwww.AvySchool.com or

December 19: Silverton Community Holiday Dinner & Dance.Reserve your table by calling (970) 903-5647

December 24: Santa Comes to Town, courtesy of the Silverton Fire Department Greet Santa at the Town Tree for those last minuteChristmas requests, a Silverton tradition.

January 16 -17: Ski for Treasure at Kendall MountainGreat fun for the whole family! Ski, sled and snowshoeyour way around Kendall Mountain Recreation Area tofind hidden treasures and treats. Rental equipment avail-able. www.SkiKendall.com or call (970) 387-5228.

January 22 - 24: Silverton Avalanche School Level I course. For information, call 970-799-3406 or visitwww.AvySchool.com.

January 22 - 24: Snowscape Winter FestivalOld Fashioned Winter Fun!

NEW DATES! Come experience Silverton’s biggest eventof the winter! Activities include the parade of lights & cer-emonial bonfire, cardboard sledding derby, snowshoeraces, Yukigassen snow battle, Horseshoe Tournament,ski and snowboard competitions, Snow Golf Tournament,and Silverton's Alley Challenge Cross Country Ski Race!www.SilvertonEvents.com or call (970) 903-5647.

SKI FOR ONLY $15!

Ski

Snowboard

Sled

Ice Skate

Snowshoe

... and a warmlodge with views of it all!

Ski

Snowboard

Sled

Ice Skate

Snowshoe

... and a warmlodge with views of it all!

Lift Tickets only $10-$15/day Ski/Snowboard Rental Packages less than $20/day! Cross Country, Snowshoes, Sleds and Ice Skates Available Enjoy Hot Drinks and Snacks in the Viewing Lodge Perfect for Weddings, Retreats and Conferences

Lift Tickets only $10-$15/day Ski/Snowboard Rental Packages less than $20/day! Cross Country, Snowshoes, Sleds and Ice Skates Available Enjoy Hot Drinks and Snacks in the Viewing Lodge Perfect for Weddings, Retreats and Conferences

1 Kendall Place (14th Street)Silverton, CO 81433

www.SkiKendall.com970-387-5228

1 Kendall Place (14th Street)Silverton, CO 81433

www.SkiKendall.com970-387-5228

SKI FOR ONLY $15!


January 29 - 31: Silverton Avalanche SchoolLevel I course. For information call (970) 799-3406 or visit www.AvySchool.com

February 4 - 7: Silverton Avalanche School Level II course

February 12-14: Community Ski Races.Come one, come all! Bring the kids and grown-ups too!Join in these fun and competitive race events. For infor-mation, call (970) 903-5647 or www.SilvertonEvents.com

TBA “The Good Doctor” by Oscar Wilde A Theatre Group production. A comedy of Chekhoviantwists and turns. For information, call 970-387-5337 or visit www.atheatregroup.org

March 20 - 21: Ski for Treasure at Kendall MountainGreat fun for the whole family! Ski, sled and snowshoeyour way around Kendall Mountain Recreation Area tofind hidden treasures and treats. Rental equipment avail-able. For information, call (970) 387-5228 or visitwww.SkiKendall.com

April 3:Easter Egg Hunt on the County CourthouseLawn; possibly in the snow! Call (970) 903-5647 or visit www.SilvertonEvents.com

Pho

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Vallecito Lake

This page:Cross country skiing is a favorite

winter past-time at Vallecito Lake, especially when you have a friend to share it with. Photo: Yodit Gidey

Opposite page:Building a snowman remains a

great winter tradition for kids.Herald file photo


Vallecito Lake, at 7,665 feet above sealevel and one of the largest and mostbeautiful bodies of water in Colorado,is located 25 miles from downtownDurango and completely surrounded by the San Juan National Forest. Morethan 2,700 surface acres of water and 22 miles of shoreline provide ample

opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. Vallecito,Spanish for “Little Valley,” and ancestral home to many of Colorado's Ute Indians, became the name of thesparkling waters of the lake it surrounded.

Enjoy Vallecito Lake’s beautiful winter scenery while par-taking in your favorite winter activity. Vallecito is a greatlocation for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding,ice fishing and snowmobiling. Also, take time to enjoyone of Vallecito’s many restaurants that are open duringthe winter.

For more information, contact the Vallecito LakeChamber of Commerce at (970) 247-1573 or visitwww.vallecitolakechamber.com.

Pho

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ile


The elevation in Colorado’s mountains canexceed 14,000 feet above sea level. Airbecomes thinner at higher elevations andcontains less oxygen. Physical exertion,rapid ascents and descents, and poor physical condition can increase a person’s

chance of experiencing altitude sickness. Symptomsinclude headache, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and trouble sleeping. These symptoms typically occur afterarrival and usually disappear around the fourth day.If symptoms worsen, linger, or you develop lung congestion and have trouble breathing, seek medicalhelp immediately. In a small percentage of people, highaltitude sickness can cause life-threatening pulmonary orcerebral edema, which must be treated by a physician.

Prevention Tips:Avoid alcohol, sleeping pills and narcotic pain medicineduring your first few days at altitude.

Drink plenty of fluids and eat a high carbohydrate diet to fuel up for those outdoor sports.

Get extra rest and limit your activity for the first few days.

Spend an extra day and night at 5,000 feet beforeattempting activities at higher elevations.

Sun ExposureEven though it’s winter, wear sunglasses, lip balm and a hat to avoid sun exposure. Always apply plenty of sun-screen and reapply throughout the day.

Facts about the ultraviolet rays (UV) of the winter sun Higher elevation levels expose you to 50 percent more UV radiation.

Fresh snow reflects up to 90 percent of the sun’s danger-ous UV rays.

Up to 80 percent of UV radiation from the sun can passthrough the clouds. UV radiation is even present oncloudy days.

UV exposure increases 5 percent every 1,000 feet abovesea level.

www.gosunsmart.org

Winter driving From equiping your vehicle for the worst case scenario, to navigating through difficult weather conditions, AAAColorado has important information you will need to makeyour winter driving as uneventful as possible. Onebrochure, among others, “How to Go on Ice and Snow”is available in print or online in PDF format by visiting www.aaacolorado.com.

A Last Word onWinter Safety

Welcome to winter in Southwest Colorado,

a region where nearly anyone can enjoy our

sunshine, outdoor activities and the warm,

friendly people. Mountains, canyons, lakes,

rivers and deserts are all within a day’s

drive. But sometimes we enjoy ourselves

so much that we forget to take a few simple

precautions resulting in time away from

the fun.

Photo: David Ohman


hy would you expect to find some of the best

orthopedic surgeons in a place like Durango?

Frankly because the best orthopedic surgeons

have the luxury of choosing the most idyllic place in the

country as their home. The fact is, sports medicine physi-

cians are sports-minded individuals

who are similarly attracted to Durango

for the quality of life.

Founded in 1962, Durango

Orthopedics has attracted some of the

best-trained sports medicine physicians

in the nation. Also, the presence of Mercy Regional Medical

Center, makes possible the most advanced instrumentation

and surgical capabilities that one would expect to find in a

major city like Denver, including total knee, shoulder, elbow

and hip replacement surgery.

Durango Orthopedics has invested in the newest

technology including advanced digital x-ray, Open MRI,

injection suites and therapy.

The group includes specialists

in knee, ankle, foot, hip,

shoulder, elbow and hand,

who handle both adult and

pediatric orthopedic injury.

Recognizing that back and neck

pain requires a specialized

approach, the group created a

specialty center, SpineColorado, that has fellowship-

trained spine surgeons, physiatrists and spine specialized

therapists.

The Four Corners area of the Rockies is beautiful

country. With mountains of slopes to ski down, endless

trails for mountain bikers and hikers, and a jungle gym of

rocks to climb, the area provides an exciting, and

sometimes risky, playground for active adults and kids.

When an injury happens, the

educated consumer knows

it’s better to go to someone

locally who has fixed 2,000

ski injuries, rather than go off

to a city where a ski injury is a curiosity. If you’ve pushed

activity to the limit and now have bone, muscle, joint, back

or neck pain, call us. We’ll help you get back on the track.WW

Winter Guide 2010

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