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Estes Park Trail Vacation Edition 2008

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The Estes Park Trail Vacation Edition, published by the Estes Park Trail-Gazette, covers all to see and do in Estes Park, Colorado and the neighboring Rocky Mountain National Park.
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Women’s Siren VentilatorWomen’s-specific technology and styling for outdoor performance.Siren selection varies by store.

Estes Park Mountain Shop2050 Big Thompson Ave.970.586.6548

Rocky Mountain Connection141 East Elkhorn Ave.970.586.3361

Outdoor World156 East Elkhorn Ave.970.586.2114

Look for Merrell Apparel

Plum Creek Shoe Station135 Moraine Ave.970.586.4061

64625 MRL EP Trail Gazette Ad.aiPage 1 4/25/07 10:22:18 AM

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 1

PublisherBill Ferguson

Vacation EditionEditor John Cordsen

ProductionManagerTony J. Wedick

AdvertisingDirectorKeith Kratochvil

ContributingWriters and

PhotographersJanice MasonWalt HesterMike OatleyJuley Harvey

Madeline FramsonGreg Berman

Advertising StaffMelissa Rockabrand

Mary D’Ambra

Graphic DesignersTom McTigheJulie Skelton

Bookkeeper

Leslie Dawson

CirculationManager Jennifer Wurgaft

Front Desk Charles Walters

The Vacation Edition is anannual publication of the EstesPark Trail-Gazette, a twice-weekly newspaper. The VacationEdition is published in May.Offices: 251 Moraine Ave.Mailing address: P.O. Box 1707,Estes Park, CO 80517.Telephone: (970) 586-3356. Fax(970) 586-9532. Web site:www.eptrail.com. (c) 2008

Visitors’ Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2RMNP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Wines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Dog Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Candy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Friendly Bunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Winter Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Shining Mountains . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Waterfall Hikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Fun Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24Pathways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28Performance Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Music Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32Wildside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Scottish Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Observatory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38July 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43On the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Birds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46Mid-Summer Festival . . . . . . . . . . .48Estes Park Museum . . . . . . . . . . . .50Meet the Artisans . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Rooftop Rodeo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Trail Ridge Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Shuttle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62MacGregor Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64Alpine Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66Scenic Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . .69Camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78Advertising Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

In This IssueIn This Issue

On the cover: Longs Peakwith a splash of fallcolors.

The Keyboard of theWinds extends southwardfrom Longs Peak (Right).

Photos by Walt Hester

2 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

First StopThe Visitors Center

The majestic scenery of Rocky Mountain NationalPark combined with the home town hospitality ofEstes Park transforms a trip to the Colorado Rockies

into a dream vacation in a corner of paradise. Whethercoming for a day, a week, or more, visiting this eastern gate-way community to Rocky Mountain National Park, EstesPark, at 7,522 feet above sea level is an experience you’llremember forever.

With world class hiking and climbing, fishing, golfing,sightseeing, wildlife watching, galleries, unique shopping, anarray of dining choices, options in lodging to meet everytaste and Rocky Mountain National Park out the back door,there’s something in Estes Park just for you.

Special events at Estes Park and summer-long free out-door entertainment are set amidst the backdrop of RockyMountain National Park. Hear folk musicians entertain, lis-ten to a string quartet perform, or tap your toes to a bigband playing favorites. Beginning with Jazz Fest held eachMay and continuing through the holiday season’s “Catchthe Glow’ celebration, there are special events here in EstesPark that will keep you coming back for more.

Here, you can be adventurous all on your own. But whenyou want advice or assistance, the Estes Park Visitors

Center, operated by the Estes Park Convention and VisitorsBureau, is a perfect place to stop. Located at the intersectionof U.S. Highways 34 and 36, the Center provides informa-tion about every business in Estes Park and things to do inthe area.

When it comes to providing complete visitors services,the one component of excellence that sets Estes Park apartfrom other areas is the contingent of about 70 volunteerswho donate their expertise and time to helping visitors havean outstanding vacation experience in this area.

Individual Ambassadors work on a rotating basis at theinformation desk in the Visitors Center daily during thesummer season and on weekends from October throughmid-May. Ambassadors answer questions about where tohike, drive, shop, eat and stay in the Estes Park area. Theyprovide answers to common questions like “where’s a goodplace for me to hike?” to more uncommon questions thatdeal with everything from human genealogy to botanicalknowledge. The CVB staff provides additional expertise inplanning group gatherings from weddings and reunions tobusiness meetings.

The Estes Park Visitors Center is open daily except NewYears Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Visitors Center Summer Hours* 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily*Location: 500 Big Thompson Highway at the intersection of U.S. Highways 34 and 36.*Telephone: 970-577-9900 or 800-44-ESTES*Website: www.EstesParkCVB.com

CVB Mission Statement“To support the strength and well being of our community with the year-round promotion of visitation, tourism, and

conferences through comprehensive communications, special events, group sales and visitor service programs.”

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 3

Rocky Mountain National Park(RMNP) offers 415 square miles ofdynamic landscape featuring lowland

meadows, numerous lakes and rivers, aspenand subalpine forests, and towering moun-tain peaks. All of these aspects of RMNPcreate an unparalleled outdoor playgroundwhere the possibilities are endless. Visitorshike its 360 miles of trails, watch massiveherds of elk, fish for trout in its manystreams and lakes, camp underneath its vaststarry mountain skies, or climb its epicgranite rock walls.

Nearly three million people visit RMNPeach year, making it one of the most popu-lar National Parks in the country. Mapsand brochures can be obtained at any ofthe RMNP visitor centers and for generalinformation call RMNP HQ at (970) 586-1206 or visit www.nps.gov/romo.

Visitor CentersRMNP has four visitor centers where

guests can see nature exhibits, purchaseRMNP books, buy gifts and snacks, use

restrooms, view topographical maps of thepark, and ask the park rangers questions.

Alpine Visitor CenterOpen daily, May 25 through June 16,

10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.June 17 through September 3, 9 a.m. to

5 p.m.September 4 through October 8, 10:30

a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Located at Fall River Pass at the junc-

tion of Trail Ridge and Old Fall Riverroads

Alpine Visitor Center is open dependingon weather and Trail Ridge road condi-tions. It is closed in the winter.

Beaver Meadows VisitorCenter

Open Year-RoundOctober 30, 2006 through April 28,

2007 open daily, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.(closed Christmas Day)

April 29 through June 16, open daily, 8 Photo by Walt Hester

A bull elk in velvet works his way across the tundraabove Trail Ridge Road in RMNP.

The Jewel of theRockies

Rocky Mountain National Park’s Beauty Attracts Millions

See Jewel: Page 4

2007

ReadersChoice

Voted BestBakery

BestBrunch &

BestDesserts

AMERICA’S FINEST SAUSAGE!

Willkommen -Welcome

Gemithicheit -Warmth & Friendliness

Schmidt's Bakery & Delicatessen808 14th St. SW Loveland

970-667-9811Open Mon-Sat 6am-6pm Sun 7am-5pm

Schmidt's at Estes ParkNational Park Village Country Market

900 Moraine Ave. 970-586-2702Open 7 Days a Week 7am-8pm

Coffee Cakes

Signature Cakes

Beautiful Wedding Cakes

Breads & Rolls

Awesome Tortes

Delicatessen

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Once Upon a Time…

A general book storeA general book storefeaturing…

• Regional History & Nature• Children’s Books

• Calendars• Newspapers

• Magazines

We special orderbooks & ship!

152 E. Elkhorn ~ 970-586-3450 ~ macdonaldbookshop.comP.O. Box 900 ~ Estes Park, CO 80517

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4 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

a.m. to 5 p.m.June 17 through August 18, 8

a.m. to 9 p.m. (Thursday, Friday,Saturday & Sunday)

8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Monday,Tuesday & Wednesday)

August 19 through September 28 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday, Saturday& Sunday)

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday)

September 3 through October27, open daily, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Located on U.S. Route 36, threemiles from the town of Estes Park.

Fall River VisitorCenter

Open Year-RoundOct.30, 2006 through mid-June,

weekends only, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Also: November 24 (Friday),

December 26 through December 29& February 19

April 30 through Oct. 28, opendaily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Located on U.S. Route 34, fivemiles west of the town of EstesPark, near the Fall River Entrance tothe Park.

Kawuneeche VisitorCenter

Open Year-Round

Open daily May 13 through June16, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

June 17 through Aug. 25, 8 a.m.to 6 p.m.

Aug.26 through September 22,8a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sept. 23 through the wintermonths, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Located one mile north of thetown of Grand Lake on U.S. Route34 at the entrance to the park

Fees and PassesSeven Day Entrance Fee:Individuals and families in a pas-

senger car: $20Pedestrians, bicycles, and mope-

ds: $10 per personAnnual RMNP Pass: A $35 pass

that allows unlimited entry toRocky Mountain National Park fora full 12 months from the date ofpurchase.

Groups & Organizations:Members of groups (church, school,recreation district groups, and orga-nizations, not qualifying for educa-tional fee waivers) are charged $10per person over 15 years of age forentrance into Rocky MountainNational Park (no charge for thevehicle driver).

The National Park Service is an

JewelContinued from page 4

Photo by Walt Hester

Hikers make their way along the Flattop Mountain Trail during a fallhike. The Park has 360 miles of hiking trails. See Park: Page 5

The Este s Park Bracelet ™

The Este s Park R ing ™

Exclusive to The Village Goldsmith, Inc.

The Village Goldsmith, Inc.The Este s Park Bracelet ™

The Este s Park R ing ™

Exclusive to The Village Goldsmith, Inc.

www.villagegoldsmith.com • 970-586-5659 • 235 West Elkhorn Avenue

Exquisite DiamondsExciting Colored Gems

Exceptional DesignsHandcrafted Artistry Since 1976

all designs copyrighted

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important participant in the newInteragency Pass Program which wascreated by the Federal LandsRecreation Enhancement Act andauthorized by Congress inDecember 2004. Participating agen-cies include the National ParkService, U.S. Department ofAgriculture - Forest Service, Fishand Wildlife Service, Bureau ofLand Management and Bureau ofReclamation. The pass series, collec-tively known as the America theBeautiful – National Parks andFederal Recreational Lands Pass.The new passes went on sale Jan. 1,2007.

America the Beautiful – NationalParks and Federal RecreationalLands Pass – Annual Pass - Cost$80.

America the Beautiful –National Parks and FederalRecreational Lands Pass – Senior

Pass: this is a lifetime pass for U.S.citizens or permanent residents age62 or over.

Golden Eagle Passport andNational Parks Pass: this passes hasbeen discontinued and replaced bythe America the Beautiful –National Parks and FederalRecreational Lands Pass.

FishingFishing is allowed in designated

areas in the Park; however, regula-tions vary from place to place. It isrequired to have a valid Coloradofishing license at all times. Someareas are exclusively catch-and-release. Observe postings carefully.

HuntingNot allowed in RMNP.

HikingGetting out of your car and hik-

ing the 360 miles of trails is the bestway to explore RMNP. Popular trailsrange from the easy and handi-capped accessible paths around BearLake, Lily Lake, and Sprague Lake.More ambitious climbs up thefabled Longs Peak are also availablefor hikers. For a comprehensiveanalysis of the many hikes andclimbs that RMNP has to offer, LisaFosters, “Rocky Mountain NationalPark, The Complete Hiking Guide,”is an excellent resource, as well asthe various informa-tion pamphlets pro-vided by RMNP.

WildlifeThe animals that

live in RMNP arewild. Park visitorscould potentially posea threat to their nat-ural habitat, and inturn the animalscould harm visitors.To avoid conflict, donot feed any wildlifein the park becausethey can becomedependent on humanfood, lose the abilityto hunt, and possiblydie.

Animals can alsokick, bite, or goreyou. They can alsocarry diseases such as

rabies and bubonic plague, whichcan be transmitted to humans.

Photograph all wildlife from thesafety of your vehicle or from theroadside.

Approaching the animals fright-ens them and a possible fine may beissued to those who unnecessarilydisturb the wildlife.

PetsPets are not allowed on Park

trails, snowfields, or in the back-country. A leashedpet may be walked inthe campgrounds,picnic areas, andalong roadsides.Never leave your petunattended in a vehi-cle. Kennels are avail-able in Estes Park andother surroundingcommunities.

Leave NoTrace

In order to pre-serve the pristinebeauty of RMNP’snatural landscape it isimportant for visitorsto adhere to theLeave No Trace out-door mentality. Formore information,contact www.lnt.org.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 5

ParkContinued from page 5

Photo by Walt Hester

A bighorn ram stands silhouetted against Longs Peak in the distance.

Photo by John Cordsen

Moose are more com-monly seen on the Park’swest side along theColorado River.

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6 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Drink in the brilliant sunlight, the fresh mountain air and the mag-nificent scenery that combine to make Colorado wines so special.The Front Range Wine Trail, or the corridor around I-25 on the

east side of the Continental Divide, is home to almost two dozen wineriesand tasting rooms. Short day trips from the major metro areas ofDenver/Boulder, Colorado Springs or Fort Collins allow you to samplewines from Cañon City to Estes Park, gateway to Rocky MountainNational Park.

Several wineries in Estes Park offer a taste of the good life in theRockies. To whet your appetite, visit Snowy Peaks Winery, Valley of theWind Winery and Colorado Winery, as well as the Wine and CheeseShop.

Snowy Peaks WineryLocated in the heart of beautiful Estes Park, Snowy Peaks Winery offers

a taste of Colorado. The winery tasting room offers wines made in EstesPark as well as wines by a number of Colorado’s finest wineries. They havea wide selection of varieties made from Colorado-grown grapes includingMerlot, Syrah, Viognier and Chardonnay. The tasting room offers sam-ples, so you can find the wine you like best.

They feature more than 30 different Colorado boutique wines for sam-pling and sales, including award-winning wines made right here in EstesPark. Come enjoy a tasting flight or a glass of wine in a low-key, family-friendly atmosphere. They carry locally-made artisan cheeses, crackers,sauces and other gourmet foods to compliment your wine selection. Enjoythese hand-crafted delicacies on a picnic in majestic Rocky MountainNational Park or sit back and relax with a glass of wine in their diningarea or patio. They are a small, family-owned and -operated winery, using100-percent Colorado-grown grapes from the Grand Valley and West ElksAVAs. They also offer tours of their wine-making facilities beneath thetasting room, where wine is handcrafted in small quantities with love andcare.

Snowy Peaks also carries gourmet foods made by Colorado artisans tocomplement your wine selection. A sample of their products includeshandmade cheeses and chocolates, wine jellies and small batch sodas forthe non-wine drinkers.

Relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the views of the Rocky Mountainsfrom the tasting room or they can pack your wine and cheese selectionsinto a picnic basket to take to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.

Bottling DatesCome watch the bottling line or even try your hand at it. Be among

the first to try and buy the new releases. May 20th — Viognier and OsoWhite.

Located in the heart of Estes Park, 292 Moraine Ave., Estes Park, Colo.80517 Phone: (970) 586-2099 Email: [email protected]

Web site: www.snowypeakswinery.comSummer Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday 12:30

p.m to 6 p.m.Awards: 2005 Syrah-Gold Medal-2007 International Eastern Wine

Competition2006 Riesling-Bronze Medal-2007 International Eastern Wine

Competition2005 Syrah-Silver-2006 Colorado Mountain Winefest.

Valley of the Wind Estes ParkLargest Colorado wine selection in Estes Park, gateway to America’s

snow-capped Rocky Mountain National Park. Buy award-winningColorado wine for your mountain meadow picnic, condominium partyand romantic starlight Rocky Mountain dinner. Open Sundays.

They have both inside seating and outside deck seating overlooking theBig Thompson River and spectacular vistas of the Rocky Mountains.

Reserve the wine-and-bed suite for two people by calling (970) 577-8800.

Raise a glass —

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470 E. ELKHORNAVE. 970.586.5206552 W. ELKHORNAVE. 970.577.1220WWW.KINDCOFFEE.COM

FULL ESPRESSO BAR • FREE WI-FIRIVERSIDE SEATING • BAKED GOODS & MORE

OPEN DAILY AT 6:30 AM

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Talking With...May 9, 10, 16, 17 7:30 pm

Park Village Playhouse

Incredible Circus MatJuly 19 7:30 pmPerformance Park

Improv in the Mountains

Laura Livingston & Mike DurkinAdult Improv Workshop in two parts (18yrs. and up)

Wed./Thurs., August 27 and 28, 7 - 10 pmCost: $25

Park Village PlayhouseStudent Improv Workshop (10 - 17 yrs)

Fri., August 2910 - 5 pm with lunch break 1-2 pm

No chargePark Village Playhouse

Improv in the Mountains PerformanceFriday, August 29

7:30 pmPark Village Playhouse

Register for workshops at Estes Park Public Library

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The Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies, located in Estes Park, Colorado, brings visual and fine arts to the community.

5 Minutes MaxA fun fundraiser!

August 15, 7:30 pmAmerican Legion

Fine Arts & Crafts FestivalSept. 13-14Bond Park

Bye Bye BirdieNov. 7-8, 14-15 7:30 pm

Nov. 9 2:00 pmHemple Recital Hall,YMCA of the Rockies

Supporting theArts in Estes Park

since1958

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 7

Wine is fine at Estes Park wineriesLocation: 120 Riverside Dr., Estes

Park, Colo. 80517 Phone: (970) 577-8800 Email: [email protected] site: www.valleyofthewind.com

Summer Hours: 12 noon to 7 p.m.daily June 1st to October 15th

Call for winter hours (970)577-8800.

Valley of the Wind’s exclusive “Wine& Bed Suite” is newly remodeled andwell-appointed with fully equippedkitchen, full bath, one bedroom and asitting room with gas fireplace, a lovelysetting for a romantic vacation. TheVillage of Estes Park is within a blockof the Wine & Bed Suite. Stroll alongthe Riverwalk for dining and shopping.Valley of the Wind Wine Tasting Roomalso offers an exclusive setting for small,intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners,anniversaries and other special events.

Wine and Cheese ShopWine and Cheese are two specialty

stores located in Estes Park. Wine offershundreds of hand-selected wines fromaround the world. They have tasted allof their wines to ensure quality andvalue. Cheese is a bistro-style restaurantoffering hand-cut cheeses and finemeats served on generous platters withfine accompaniments. All their cheesesare also available retail or as to-go plat-ters. These are perfect for entertaining.

Wine & Cheese is located at 330and 332 E. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park,Colo. 80517 Cheese: (970) 586-5511Wine: (970) 586-6611

Web site:www.thewineandcheese.com.

Grape-flavored historyIn 1873, English traveler Isabella

Bird first discovered the lush landscapeof the Grand Valley during her ascentup St. Vincent Canyon on her way toEstes Park. In 1909, 1,034 Coloradofarms were involved in grape produc-tion. In 2005, Valley of the WindWinery and Snowy Peaks Wineryopened in Estes Park.

Photo by Walt Hester

"LITHIUM AND LITHIUM GIRL - THE CLOTHES YOU SHOULD BE WEARING!" • “FAVORITE STORES OF LOCALS & VISITORS !”WWW.BELLAGEMSANDGIFTS.COM

skateboards, skate accessories and apparel, general young men's clothing, body jewelry, unique and edgy

gifts, patches, stickers, posters, great skull

collection, statues, cds, air soft, year-round costumes and

much more!

off the runway young and mature women's clothing and

accessories, body jewelry, sunglasses, trendy hats, year-round

costumes, buttons, huge fairy collection, cards, cosmetics &

make-up including Burt's Bees, shoes. hempwear and much more!

204 W. Elkhorn Ave. 970-577-1800204 W. Elkhorn Ave. 970-577-1800 128 E. Elkhorn AVE. 970577-9700128 E. Elkhorn AVE. 970577-9700

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8 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

It’s a dog’s life …

Do you want to bring yourdog? Before you decide, con-sider the facts of wilderness

life that face dogs who visit ourmountains.

Estes Park has a fenced dog parkwhere you can exercise your caninecompanion. Otherwise, plan to stayconnected with your dog via a leash.There are new and wonderful scentsthat may cause your perfectlybehaved town dog to bolt into theforest unexpectedly. The call of thewild may overpower your call toyour pet to come back. Dogs caughtchasing wildlife may be shot by thewildlife officer as predators.

You can hike with your leasheddog in Roosevelt National Forest,but dogs are not allowed on theRocky Mountain National Parktrails. Shady parking spots are non-existent in the summer, so your parkvisits may be limited to developedpicnic areas or parking spots.

On walks, human companionsare needed to help their visitingcanines handle encounters with theresidents. Deer, elk, bighorn sheep,marmots, chipmunks, raccoons andsquirrels may consider them to bestrange, unwelcome intruders;mountain lion, bear and coyote may

see them as a tasty meal.If your canine companion is a

full-fledged family member, theseissues won’t be a problem and youwill have a lovely time. Together,you can all go hiking in theNational Forest, window shoppingin town, picnicking in the park anddriving along scenic byways.

Dog ParkVisit the Dog Park, off US 36,

east of town, just east of the StanleyPark Fairgrounds.

If you are coming into Estes Parkon US 36 from Boulder, Longmontor Lyons, turn left onto CommunityDrive just before you get to the fair-grounds.

You’ll see big Estes Lake on yourright and a smaller lake on yourleft.That’s when you need to slowdown and get ready to turn leftimmediately into the parking lot.

Dog park amenities: Benches,poop bags, no drinking water.

Opened in the autumn of 2002,this park has proved to be very pop-ular. It’s divided into two sections,one of which has access to the lake.It is very windy and can get reallycold, so bring warm clothing, andmaybe a peacoat for your pooch.

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Downtown, Next to theHistoric Park Theatre, On the River

email—[email protected]—DeLeosDeli.com 970-577-1134

John DenverTribute Concert

John DenverJohn DenverTribute ConcertTribute Concert

August 23rd, 2008Brad & Kathy Fitch

Gates Open at 6 p.m. Stanley Park Fairgrounds$2000 Advance$2500 Gate$3000 Premium BoxKids under 10 Free

For More Information Call 970-586-4611Sponsored by Estes Park Lions Club

withand the

Tickets Available Locally on June 1st

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TropiCowboy Band

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 9

... at the Dog ParkAdditionally, these

accommodations andbusinesses may welcome

you and your dog, butalways call to make sure.

• Castle Mountain Lodge on FallRiver (800) 852-7463 (970) 5863664. Check the PeripateticPetPolicy on their Web site.

• McGregor Mountain Lodge (800) 835-8439 (970) 586-3457

• Skyline Cottages (602) 274-6407 (970) 586-2886

• Colorado Cottages (970) 586-4637

• Braeside Cabin (970) 586-6845

• Lazy R Cottages (800) 726-3728 (970) 586-3708

• Timber Creek Chalets (800) 764-4308 (970) 586-8803

• Rustic River Cabins (800) 530-3942 (970) 586-8493

• National Park Resort Camping& Cabins (970) 586-4563. RV siteswith hook-ups. Pets welcome.

• Silver Moon Inn (800) 818-6006 (970) 586-3151

• Discovery Lodge (800) 354 8253 970 691 7364

• 2 Eagles Resort (866) 834-4722 (970) 663-5532

• Colorado Cottages (970) 586-4637

• Stone Mountain Lodge &Cabins (800) 282 5612 (303) 823-6091

• Machin’s Cottages in the Pines (970) 586-4276

• Skyline Cottages (602) 274-6407 (970) 586-2886

• Columbine Inn (800) 726-9049 (970) 586 -

4533

• Elk Meadow Lodge and RVResort -1665 Hwy. 66 Estes Park

• Estes Park KOA - 2051 BigThompson Ave., 586-2888

• Manor RV Park - 815Riverside Drive Estes Park

• Marys Lake Campground -2120 Marys Lake Road Estes Park

• Yogi Bear Jellystone Park - 5495Hwy. 36 Estes Park

Pet supplies andcare

• Linda’s Pet Care Services(970) 586-0340

• Critters & Crates Inc(970) 586-844

• The Mutt Hutt(970) 586-6606

• Animal Medical Center of Estes Park PC (970) 586-6898

• Estes Park Pet Lodge(970) 586-6898

• Angie Bryant DVM(970) 586-6898

• The Animal House970-586-4703

• Marie C Richardson DVM(970) 586-4703

• Jeff Fish DVM(970) 586-6898

Photos by Walt Hester

ROCKY MOUNTAIN

KID COMPANY

A STORE FOR KIDS WHO LOVE NATURE

On the Riverwalk 140 E. Elkhorn, Estes Park, Colorado

Learn How to Become a

Rocky Mountain National Park

Junior Ranger!

Also Offering Great Classes for

kids in Rocky Mtn National Park!

j Young Naturalists Wilderness Exploration

j Animal Tracks Detectives

j Cougar Clues & How to Read Them

j Art Adventures

j Rhymin’ & Rappin’ in the Rockies

j Nature Journaling for Kids

Sign up at the Store, or

Learn more at rmna.org

Games, Puppets, Books, Puzzles & More

Lots of Junior Ranger Stuff, too!

Rocky Mountain Nature Association Nature. Pass It On. Next Generation Fund - rmna.org

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10 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Many visitors remember their first taste ofEstes Park taffy. You can watch as it’smade in the Taffy Shop and then take a

box or two along with you to chew. Vacationtime is so fun. You can stand outside the bigcandy-store window and watch as the taffy isbeing stretched and pulled on the big taffy-pullermachine. You’ll be amazed it never falls off. Onceyou enter the store, the pastel assortment of col-ors and flavors beckons. The taffy also makesgreat souvenirs, as it stays fresh for a very longtime and travels easily through security. The taffypull is a strong one, indeed, too strong for manytourists to resist.

It has become a staple, a tradition for familieswho return to Estes Park year after year, with theidea of fresh taffy melting in their mouths as solidas the mountain scenery.

In Estes Park, elk wander downtown alongwith weekenders carrying hiking gear in one handand saltwater taffy in the other. After a day ofhorseback riding, hiking, fishing, swimming,snowshoeing, whitewater rafting, bird watching,shopping and scenic driving through RockyMountain National Park, you’ll probably be hun-gry. Taffy may be one way to soothe the savage beast.

Taffy is a type of chewy candy that is made by stretching or pulling asticky mass of boiled sugar, butter, flavorings and coloring until fluffy.When this process is complete, the taffy is rolled, cut into small pastel-col-ored pieces and wrapped in wax paper to keep it soft. It usually has a fruityflavor, but other flavors are common as well.

Saltwater taffy was a noted invention of Atlantic City, N.J., beginning inthe late 19th century, and it became a common souvenir of many coastalresort towns. Modern commercial taffy is made primarily from corn syrup,glycerin and butter. The “pulling” process, which makes the candy lighterand chewier, consists of stretching out the mixture, folding it over andstretching it out again. Caramel candies are sometimes referred to as taffy(taffy apples, taffy-colored hair), but are very different from common salt-

Mountain dote —

Photo by Walt Hester

Miniature Golf • GO Karts2 Giant Slides • Bungee Tramp

Bumper Cars & BoatsArcades & Games • Snacks

Miniature Golf • GO Karts2 Giant Slides • Bungee Tramp

Bumper Cars & BoatsArcades & Games • Snacks

www.funcityofestes.com

20-16787

Rock ShopRed RoseRed Rose& Dick’s Rock MuseumSelling rocks, gems and minerals

from Colorado and around the world since 1939. We carry

decorative landscaping, fountain, aquarium & metaphysical rocks,

crystals, fossils, polishing materilas, rough for cabbing,

slabs, bookends, candle holders, unique specimens, crafts and jewelry

made by local artists.

Free Museum!

Next to Coffee on the Rocks!

Open Year-Round & Open Late in the Summer!490 Moraine Avenue, Estes Park, CO

970-586-4180 • RedRoseRockShop.comStop in and see us on your way in and out of the Rocky Mountain National Park!

We have lots of parking available.

20-17125

water taffy.The origins of the name are unknown. The name could refer to the

recipe that contains both salt and water. The most popular story, althoughprobably apocryphal, concerns a candy-store owner, David Bradley, whoseshop was flooded during a major storm in 1883 that soaked his entirestock of taffy with salty Atlantic Ocean water. He offered “saltwater taffy”to a young girl who asked if he had any taffy for sale. The girl was delight-ed, bought the candy and took her prize down to the beach to show herfriends. Bradley’s mother, in the back of the store, heard the exchange. Sheloved the name; Saltwater Taffy was born. Whatever the origins, JosephFralinger boxed the candy and sold it as an Atlantic City souvenir. Candymaker Enoch James refined the recipe, making it less sticky and easier tounwrap, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and is credited with mechanizing the“pulling” process. In the early 1920s, enterprising John Edmistonobtained a trademark for the name “original saltwater taffy,” demandingroyalties from companies using the name. He was sued over this demand.In 1923, the Supreme Court of the United States decided that the phrasehad been in common use too long for him to claim royalties. Saltwatertaffy is still sold widely on the boardwalk in Atlantic City, and in othertourist beachfront areas throughout the United States, as well as in EstesPark.

Saltwater taffy is not made from saltwater (hence, the Estes Park good-ies). You do need some salt and some water to make a batch of taffy, how-ever. Just as no one knows who first called the sweet candy “saltwatertaffy,” there is no record of who boiled the first vat of sugar, corn syrup,water, cornstarch, butter and salt to make the first taffy. Taffy is thoughtto have been a popular confection at country fairs in the Midwest by the1880s and it was sold in America’s first seaside resort —Atlantic City —by that time.

Today, although it probably wasn’t invented at the seashore and it does-

n’t contain any saltwater, saltwater taffy is available wherever vendors setup shop, and is gobbled up, despite its fake name.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 11

soft and chewy fresh Estes Park taffy

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Other treats for the tourists and locals may beenjoyed at the following establishments:

• Caramel Crisp, 108 E. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park, Colo. 80517, (970)586-9927

• Chocolate Drop, 1751 N. Lake Ave., Suite #110, Estes Park, Colo.80517, (970) 586-2194

• Estes Park Times & Old Fashioned Candy, 102 W. Elkhorn Ave.,Estes Park, Colo. 80517, (970) 586-3623

• Grandma’s Mountain Cookies, 217 W. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park,Colo. 80517, (970) 577-0967

• Hayley’s Homemade Ice Cream, 102 E. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park,Colo. 80517, (970) 586-4207

• Laura’s Fudge Shop, 129 E. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park, Colo. 80517,(970) 586-4004, (866) 586-4004

• Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 517 Big Thompson Ave.., EstesPark, Colo. 80517, (970) 586-6601

• Taffy Shop, 121 W. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park, Colo. 80517, (970)586-4548

• Caramel Corn, 140 E. Elkhorn Ave., Estes Park, Colo., 80517, (970)577-1216

• Donut Haus, 342 Moraine Ave., Estes Park, Colo. 80517, (970) 586-2988.

One visitor said she equates Estes Park with the taffy shop and the cozysouvenir shops, a toy store, candy stores, hometown pizza parlors and icecream shops. It’s like visiting a European village,“Little Switzerland.”

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12 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

The Friendly Bunch of the ShiningMountains Group is just that, afriendly group with a heavy leaning

toward singles.A high percentage of the Shining

Mountains Group (SMG) are singles, andthe Friendly Bunch is a section of SMG thatwas organized to help singles of all ages getacquainted with each other in a fun outdoorsetting.

Outdoor activities include hiking, biking,volleyball, tennis, skiing, snowshoeing andcar camps. Members and participants inFriendly Bunch activities don’t have to beskilled outdoor enthusiasts, all that’s neededis the desire to have fun. The outdoor activi-ties are planned for beginning to intermedi-ate skill categories.

The mountain trails near Estes Park pro-vide opportunities for enjoyable outdooractivities. Friendly Bunch activities are listedeach week in the Trail Plus on page two aspart of the Shining Mountains hiking trips.

If one is not an outdoor person, theFriendly Bunch offers plenty of indoor activi-ties, including socials, potlucks, picnics,game nights, dining out groups, a travel andslideshow night, attending movies, plays,concerts and other such activities.

For more information, contact MadelineFramson at 586-6623. Sign-up informationon the hikes is posted at the library orKomito Boots.

The Friendly Bunch

Photo by the Shining Mountains Group

Hiking is a great way to meet people. The Friendly Bunch of the Shining Mountains Groupbrings people together.

DAILY TOURS — 9:30 AMand 2 PM.

EVENING TOURS — 6 PM.Charbroiled dinners with all the fixins’, entertainment& campfire sing-a-long.Reservations required.

PRIVATE TOURS — Family Reunions, CompanyPicnics, Weddings, etc.

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Estes Park is the way Colorado used to be. It is the home to year-round splendors of the Rocky Mountains, special festivals and cultural experiences. This delightful mountain village welcomesvisitors of all ages with downtown gardens and grassy picnic parks, playgrounds, aspen groves, beds ofwildflowers, fishing, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and river-walks. Victorian lights andsidewalk benches add an old-fashioned note to the array of charming shops and restaurants.

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14 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Just because the temperature hasdropped and most of the festivalsare done, does not mean all the

fun stops during the winter. TheEstes Park and Rocky MountainNational Park areas still have plenty tooffer the outdoor fun-seeker.Counter-clockwise from above,when the snow flies, the HiddenValley snowplay area offers manysledding possibilities: Snowshoershike across Dream Lake: Familyinner tubing is in style at HiddenValley: Skiers head for the back-country in Rocky: The Frost Giantsatisfies the competitive urge everyJanuary: Multiple adventures awaitfolks at the Bear Lake Trailhead:Hidden Valley from above.

Winter WonderLand

Winter WonderLand

Photo and textby

Walt Hester

Photo and textby

Walt Hester

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 15

By Madeline Framson

The Colorado Mountain Club offers amyriad of year-round opportunities foradventure. There are a multitude of ways

to experience the wilderness inhabited bynature’s creatures in the ongoing quest to dis-cover a sense of self. Thus, the ShiningMountains Group of the Colorado MountainClub welcomes everyone to share in the beguil-ing mystique of the Rockies.

The CMC is the largest and oldest moun-taineer organization still existing in this part ofthe country.

People in all walks of life and from all 50states and countries abroad are members of theCMC. The members all believe in courtesytoward each other and nature - that’s the truemountain club spirit.

Members are generally those who plan to visitand revisit the Rockies and want to participatein the mountaineering activities the club offers.

It was natural that the lure of the ColoradoRockies would inspire 25 stalwart individuals,who shared a love of the mountains, to band

together and charter the CMC in 1912. Thegroup recognized the need to preserve a unique,pristine treasure. Its first goal was to see RockyMountain National Park established - a shiningachievement in 1915.

The club sponsors trips to all sorts ofenchanting vistas. They range from leisurelynature walks in the Estes Valley and RockyMountain National Park, to expeditions climb-ing Mount Everest and the highest peaks of theworld.

The more than 3,000 recreational opportuni-ties sponsored annually offer a kaleidoscope ofoutings. Each of the adventures is responsibly ledalong the sound principles of safety.

The locations range from plains and foothillsto high alpine lakes and peaks towering morethan 14,000 feet. The outings scheduled offeropportunities for anyone’s interests and capabili-ties; from easy to moderate to much more chal-lenging adventures.

The dimensions of the CMC are manifold. Inaddition to hiking and backpacking, add biketouring and mountain biking, technical climb-ing, canoeing, wilderness trekking, horseback

trips, birding and nature walks, llama trips, pho-tography hikes, historic hikes, picnics and socials.

In the winter there is Nordic and downhillskiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, ice skating,technical climbing, winter hiking and more back-packing.

Many of the activities include interpretationsby experts on wildlife, biology, geology, history,flora and fauna and ecosystems.

Family trips including children and adults ofall ages are very popular. Several events evenallow sociable dogs to tag along.

Within the club’s emphasis upon safety, theCMC sponsors many schools to help membersimprove their outdoor skills while having a goodtime doing it.

Socials and potlucks are scheduled throughoutthe year and the annual dinner in November isalways a highlight.

While CMC membership is not required toparticipate in many of the trips, free literaturecovering CMC membership, details of the out-ings, degrees of physical demand, conditioningand qualification information is available bycalling 586-6623.

The Shining Mountains Group of the Colorado Mountain Club offers hundreds ofhikes and other outdoor adventures

Off the Beaten Path20

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54

16 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

By Mike Oatley

As it is everywhere else, five percent of the fishermen catch 95 percent ofthe fish here, too. The guy at the trailhead with the surfcasting gear, forinstance, is going to have a long day, and the truth is that anyone carrying atackle box along a mountain creek is not going to generate much concernamong those who worry that our trout streams are overfished.

But let’s say you’ve arrived on one of the local streams with fly rod in thethree- to five-weight range and a box full of flies. Now what? The smallcreeks of Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding wildernessareas and national forests can confound anglers the first time they see it.“There are fish in there?” the unbelieving will ask.

Of course there are. Not necessarily big ones, but mostly wild ones and,in plenty of places, plenty of them, thanks to the catch-and-release ethicthat is the norm. Finding trout is not the problem.

Catching them can be. Good flyfishers are almost always goof flycastersas well, but just about anybody can learn to cast well enough in 15 minutesto catch a small-stream trout. Rather than fancy casting and canny fly selec-tion, the emphasis around here is on stealth, fly placement and line control.It’s a matter of figuring out where trout will hold in a tumbling stream,putting something buggy looking into those places and getting a natural,drag-free drift. The trout in fast streams tend to be more opportunistic thanselective when it comes to eating. The growing season is short and theyhave to make hay. They eat what the river brings them.

Beaver ponds and logjams will create opportunities for distance castingand delicate presentations with a long, fine leader but most of your troutwill come from “pocket water,” small pockets of calm water amid the rush,created by rocks, roots, indentations in the bank, fallen trees or turns in theriver. A trout doesn’t need much water for a place to hold, it just needs aspot where it doesn’t have to work too hard, with food-delivering currentand cover both nearby. The leap from finding them, which is easy, to catch-ing them is the tricky part.

“The problem my guides see most people make is trying to fish toomuch line,” a local fly shop owner said. “You have to have as little line onthe water as possible to catch fish around here.”

The first thing to do on a Park stream is to shorten your leader to about

seven feet in length and forget the “River Runs Through It” casting, withthe gossamer line floating high in the air and backlit by the setting sun.That’s trouble on a narrow creek choked with willows and birch. There isan inverse relationship between the number of false casts an angler makeshere and the number of trout he will catch. Shorten your leader, shorten theline you are working, minimize false casting, and keep your fly on thewater.

It is both possible and essential to get as close as possible to a good-look-ing pocket. It is essential because the fly must float naturally on the surfacein a drag-free drift. Now and then a trout will run down a fly skated acrossthe water, but they’ll also usually refuse to eat it at the last moment, too. Anatural, drag-free drift is far more important than the choice of the fly pat-tern.

And the fly can’t be made to drift naturally from any distance becauseany distance at all will put any number of conflicting currents between thecaster and the target and they will all conspire to grab your fly line and pullthe fly out of the pocket.

The answer is to creep in as close as possible, using the cover of whitewater, boulders, and vegetation — anything that might be available toincrease your stealth (which includes not wearing your brightest yellow t-shirt and orange ball cap).

Once in casting position, the actual cast is short and simple. A good rollcast, which keeps the line in front of the caster, is indispensable on a smallstream. Tower casts, with the line being cast upward rather than behind, canalso be effective. Where there’s room for a back cast, one false cast should beenough to extend the line to the target.

Where anglers who get this far lose it is after the fly hits the water. Thedrifts are often short, two or three feet in many cases, and everything hap-pens fast — and remember that you are fishing as soon as fly hits the water,and the take may come as fast.

The line must be controlled at both ends of the rod. Get in the habit ofhooking the fly line on a finger of your casting hand as your fly is falling tothe water. If it’s a downstream drift, with the current bringing the fly backdown to you, strip up the slack line as the current creates it. On either adownstream or cross-stream drift, follow the fly with the rod tip. Keep rod,line and fly in as straight a line as possible without dragging the fly.

There is a trick to thisTo catch trout here, get close and get a good drift

Photo by Mike Oatley

To catch fish in small mountain streams, you have to get close to them.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 17

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18 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Controlling the drift in conflicting currents can be tricky. A reach cast,which builds upstream slack into the cast, is handy, and mending — with-out moving the fly, moving the body of the fly line against the flow in orderto negate the effect of current— is a required skill.

But you should often get close enough to a pocket to control the drift bysimply extending your casting arm and holding the rod high, following thedrift of the fly with the rod.

One of the hardest parts, most find, is actually hooking a fish. Moretrout will try to eat a fly than are ever hooked for several reasons. It takessome practice setting the hook to get the timing right, but the main reasonmost strikes don’t turn into hook-ups is because the angler has slack line onthe water and/or doesn’t see the trout take the fly.

The first condition, slack line, can be corrected with good mending,stripping as necessary and shortening the cast as much as possible by gettingclose to the target. But you won’t always see your fly, especially if you arefishing ants or midges. You should, though, always know roughly where it is— where it landed and how fast it should be moving with a dead-drift onthe current. In this case, you have to rely on seeing a fish move to takesomething in the area your fly should be in.

Your reflexes and concentration will need to be sharp, and your patiencesteady, to turn looks into hook-ups, but if you wade with stealth and get inclose, you will have lots of opportunities to hone those skills to a fine edge.

Picking fliesThere’s a fishing guide in town who, when asked what the fishing are bit-

ing on, likes to say, “A good drift.”What he means is that trout in the small streams with short seasons are

opportunistic feeders rather than selective ones. Just about anything thatlooks buggy and is presented well — without drag in a natural drift — candraw a rise.

But there are times when even trout in the Park can get selective, andthen it’s good to know what they are feeding on.

When the streams are first shedding ice, the trout are going to be feedingon small midges. This fishing can be challenging and frustrating, as the fishcan be a little sleepy in the cold, low and clear water, or they can be jumpywhen still packed into their over-winter holes. Longer leaders, small fly pat-terns (a Griffith’s Gnat is still hard to beat), stealthy wading and careful pre-sentations are the keys to hooking fish when they are feeding on midges.

The first mayfly hatches of the season are the Baetis (also known as blue-winged olives), a hatch that begins on the lowest reaches of our streams asearly as late March and gradually works its way uphill. Olives can be foundcoming off in the Park into June. This hatch tends to get rolling in theafternoon, and the mayflies will emerge in greater numbers on overcastdays. Any of the proper imitations in a size 18 will serve, as will a smallParachute Adams. A Pheasant Tail is a good choice for a nymph fishingbelow the surface.

The big stonefly hatches are unpredictable around here. You may runinto one or two during run-off. Having a few adult and few nymph pat-terns in your box is a good idea, especially if you are trying to fish wateraffected by snow-melt and running high, cold and off-color.

As snow-melt begins to taper off in late June, the predominant mayflyhatch becomes that of the Pale Morning Dun, which can produce goodfishing to emergers and also a fall of Rusty Spinners in the evening thattrout will take advantage of. The imitations for this hatch are pale yellow incolor.

Along with the Pale Morning Duns, the Green Drakes begin to come offin late June and early July. The drakes are the most exciting, if also elusive,

Photo by Mike Oatley

Rainbow trout are still found in some streams, but brown trout havetaken over lower elevation streams in recent years while brooks andcutthroats dominate higher elevation waters.

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 19

Photo by Mike Oatley

There are some nice trout in the Park, like this brown, but expectmost fish to be between six inches and a foot in length.

of local mayfly hatches, a big mayfly that brings all a river’s trout out tofeed. The hatch can be spooky, coming off on one stretch of river one day,but not the next. The mayflies seem to make a break for it whenever acloud passes in front of the sun, making for sudden fast action with a stopjust as sudden. The spinners fall mainly overnight, but you will sometimesfind egg-laying flights and spinner falls first thing in the morning. A size 12Royal Wulff is perfect if you happen to stumble into Green Drake spinners,and the same fly will also work just fine through the hatch.

Around the same time, various caddis hatches get seriously underway.Covering them is mainly a matter of carrying a couple colors — tan andblack, mainly — in a range of sizes and matching to what you find. Earlyin the summer, keep an eye out for large tan caddis that have a greenishbody.

As water temperatures rise, aquatic insect activity slows through the mid-dle of the day and terrestrial imitations become increasingly important ingetting fish to eat when the sun is overhead and bright. Ants, grasshoppersand beetles are deadly patterns then.

Later in the summer, as the Green Drakes taper off, the Red Quillmayfly hatch kicks in. These mayflies are smaller than the Drakes, but stillpretty big, about a size 14, and the hatch tends to happen late in the after-noon. The Red Quills emerge in the greatest numbers late in the afternoonafter a thunderstorm has passed through and the air is crisp and damp. Thespinners fall at dusk, but finding water to fish them effectively can be chal-lenging.

By the end of August, Yellow Sally stoneflies are coming off and signal-ing that the summer is winding down, which it does in mirror image of thespring start up: blue-winged olive mayflies come on again, and then fadeinto the midges that carry through the winter wherever there is open water.

Lakes present different problems. True high elevation lakes can be sparsein terms of trout food. Some, you should note, are barren and fishless.Midges, caddis and terrestrials like beetles and ants are good choices forsearching patterns. The best approach is to try to get on them early in theday, before the wind rises, or late in the evening after the wind settles out.

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 21

Rocky Mountain National Park offersmany beautiful and diverse destina-tions. Among the more scenic are the

Park’s many waterfalls.Visitors find the soothing sounds of

falling water mesmerizing, refreshing andvery photogenic.

The Park has a number of waterfalls, with

most on the east side of the Park.The waterfalls on the Estes Park side of

the Park are well worth the hike. There areapproximately 20 major falls on the east sideof the Park. Many of these waterfalls are list-ed on the official map visitors receive whenthey enter the Park. To locate those not onthis map may require a more detailed mapsuch as the Department of Interior geologicalsurvey map of Rocky Mountain NationalPark.

This detailed map is available at mostbook or sporting stores in Estes Park, or atone of the Park’s visitor centers.

The waterfalls on the Estes Park side ofRMNP are all worth the hike, but, the sizeof the waterfall depends on water volumeand in dry time such as this year, this canvary. Seasonal flow of water also impacts thewaterfalls. The spring melt is the best timefor heavier water flow.

For those who are limited to a vehicle forviewing a waterfall, the only one visible fromthe road is Chasm Falls. Viewers can also seethe cascades at the Alluvial Fan. Both arelocated in Horseshoe Park on the Old FallRiver Road and they can be viewed by walk-ing only a few yards. The Alluvial Fan wasonce the location of Horseshoe Falls. TheFalls were essentially eroded to their presentappearance by the Lawn Lake Flood in 1982.

Waterfall hikes to soothe the soulCascades of Adventure

Miles StartingOne Way Trailhead

Alberta Falls .6 Glacier Gorge JunctionBridal Veil Falls 2.5 Cow CreekChasm Falls .5 EndovalleyCopeland Falls .2 Wild BasinFan Falls 7.2 Wild BasinFern Falls 1.5 Fern LakeGlacier Falls 1.3 Glacier Gorge JunctionGrace Falls 4.0 Bear LakeMacGregor Falls 1.5 Twin Owls

Lost Falls 5.5 Cow Creek or North ForkLyric Falls 4.2 Wild BasinMarguerite Falls 4.4 Fern LakeMertensia Falls 4.5 Wild BasinOuzel Falls 3.0 Wild BasinRibbon Falls 4.5 Glacier Gorge JunctionThousand Falls .2 EndovalleyThunder Falls 6.5 Wild BasinTimberline Falls 6.5 Glacier Gorge JunctionTrio Falls 5.0 Wild BasinWest Creek Falls 2.0 Cow Creek or North Fork

Waterfalls and where they are

Photo by Walt Hester

Chasm Falls is next to the historic Fall River Road.

Photo by Shining Mountains Group

A hiker enjoys a sojourn at the base ofFern Falls.

Marys Lake Lodge & Resort—Estes Park’s Unsurpassed GetawayTwo Distinct Restaurants

2625 Marys Lake Road 3 Miles South on Highway 7

Lodge:970-586-5958Toll Free: 877-442-6279

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Grandmaison’s Chalet RoomExperience elegance matched with phenomenal food.

The TavernHearty meals in a fun-filled atmosphere. Best outdoor heated deck!

Live music year round!Great facility for weddings or special events.

Luxurious Overnight AccomodationsLodge suites & condos—some with private hot tubs or Jacuzzis!

Hot tub & outdoor heated pool on property.The Escape Spa and Salon World-Class Spa

located on property— 970-577-9495

22 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

By Greg Berman

Colorado weather analysthttp://www.destinationestepark.com

Estes Park is on an island when it comesto weather. Most high-elevation citiesendure, on a daily basis, severe weathersuch as intense lightning-infested thunder-storms in the summer and bitter cold, bliz-zard-like conditions in the winter.

Estes Park, a town that’s rooted into theground at approximately 7,500 feet abovesea level, has a weather pattern all its own.With the grand peaks of Rocky MountainNational Park rising up to the west oftown, Estes is actually protected from theintensely severe weather on a year-roundbasis.

Resting in the shadows of this beautifulpark, the bulk of the bad stuff hangs on thehilltops, with the town receiving the tailend of almost every storm.

With each season having a mind of itsown, Estes Park does have its share ofweather changes. These changes, though,are palatable and don’t take away from thegrandeur of the town and those who livehere.

WinterEstes is not as cold as you might think,

and better yet, not as wet. Rocky MountainNational Park creates such a stir in the win-tertime with its brutal cold and regular

snowfalls measured in feet, that Estes gets abad rap for the icy chills floating over thehigher peaks west of town.

Many times while below-zero tempera-tures and blizzards are wrecking havoc atelevations over 10,000 feet, the town willbe basking under sunny skies and 55 degrees.

Such is the anomaly that is created by thisvast change in elevation. And it is one thatcreates nightmares for those forecasters whodon’t bother to delineate between what istranspiring up high and what is happeningin town. This is not to say that Estes doesnot cash in on its fair share of snow.However, for a town that rests at such a highelevation, the average snowfall of 80 inches awinter is not all that bad when you considerit is not unusual for the higher peaks west ofthe town to top the 3,000-inch mark eachwinter.

The biggest headache in the winter is thewind. This is probably considered a negativeby many, and yet, believe it not, the wind isthe reason Estes is not buried under multiplefeet of snow all winter. While the west windsbring heavy snows to the higher peaks, theyalso warm up and dry out as they float downthe mountainside. As a result, town folks areleft to battle the leftovers of what was once amighty storm.

SpringThe shortest season in Estes just might

be spring when you take into consideration

Changing Seasons —

Photo by Walt Hester

Estes Park’s climate is mild most of the year.

(800) 832-8980 • (970) 586-8410117 E. Elkhorn Ave • PO Box 3945 • Estes Park, CO 80517

www.serendipitytrading.com

Summer ShowScheduleGibbs Othole and Dee EdaakieZuni Fetish CarversFriday, July 4th and Saturday, July 5th 10 am to 4 pm

Watson HonanieHopi GoldsmithSaturday, July 12th 10 am to 4 pm

PahponeeKickapoo-Potawatami PotterSaturday, July 26th 10 am to 4 pm

(800) 832-8980 • (970) 586-8410117 E. Elkhorn Ave • PO Box 3945 • Estes Park, CO 80517

www.serendipitytrading.com

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Celebrating our 35th year offering the finest authenticNative American jewelry, arts, and crafts at the same downtown location.

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that a greedy Old Man Winterrarely packs his bags just because ofthe official change in seasons.

A good example of this occurredin April 1997, when February-likechills snuck into town riding thecrest of a snowfall measuring inexcess of two feet. The good news isthat winter’s trespassing at this timeof year is usually of short duration,and spring will usually rise up offthe carpet and elevate temperaturesto a more seasonal flavor.

If you are looking for the thun-derstorms typical in most otherU.S. cities this time of year, thenyou best suppress that urge untilafter mid to late May. Estes is usu-ally battling the prospects for snowat least until mid-May, with thepotential for snow in the summermonths not completely out of thequestion. However, this is a once-in-a-blue-moon scenario, withsnow usually not infiltrating thetown beyond the spring season.

SummerThe summer months are filled

with the sunniest days and rainiestmonths. Usually we can find amicrocosm of this all in one day,with the sun shining majesticallyuntil around 1 to 2 p.m. Then,

like magic, the benign, puffy whitecumulus that have been so inno-cently floating in scattered num-bers all join together and wagetheir usual afternoon battle overtown.

You can almost set your watchesby the thunderboomers every after-noon; however, don’t get discour-aged. The sun is only a black cloudaway and usually makes severalmore appearances before punchingthe clock on another day’s work.

The thunderstorms that do blowup over town can carry dangerouslightning, heavy rains, and strongwinds. So the best advice is thatwhen this inclement weather doesemerge, simply take safe coveruntil the storm is over. Alwayshead for higher ground whencaught out in the mountains dur-ing heavy rains. Given that advice,the summer months are simplymarvelous in Estes, and a time toget out and enjoy the friendly folksand the town’s events.

FallNow, for the time of year that is

absolutely the most colorful of all:autumn. The fall is surely a time ofyear that looks as if the giant artistin the sky went a little wild with

the colors. From bright yellow andgold to the different shades of red,the Park region is transformed intoa myriad of colors that shine evenbrighter because of the many daysof sun.

This time of year can be themost benign, as the cold andsnows usually leave Estes alone, atleast on a consistent basis, untilafter the middle of October. Many

times they even wait untilNovember to rev their icy motors.This allows the town to revel indays and days of pleasant tempera-tures and dry conditions. Thisweather pattern is a perfect one fordriving up Trail Ridge Road, thehighest continuous highway in theU.S., and for viewing the manyautumnal delights in the area.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 23

— What to Expect

Photo by Walt Hester

Winter snows blanket downtown Estes Park.

RockyMountainNationalPark

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• Clothing• Outdoor Gear• Souvenirs• Home Decor• Furniture• Books• Jewelry• Grocery Store• Ice Cream Shop

(970) 577-0043Adjacent to Fall River Visitor CenterHwy 34 @ North Entrance to Park

Plenty of ParkingBuses Welcome

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Estes ParkEstes ParkEstes Park

BLACK MOUNTAIN TRADERSBLACK MOUNTAIN TRADERSWAREHOUSEWAREHOUSE

BLACK MOUNTAIN TRADERSBLACK MOUNTAIN TRADERS

Come See Exotic ItemsWe Import From Central Asia:

Swat Valley, N. Pakistan And Afghanistan, From Many Areas Not Presently Accessible.

Old And New Hand Carved Pillars, Wood Chests, Cupboards, Carved Planks Of Many

Sizes and Shapes, Window Grates, Rosewood Jewelry Boxes And Side Tables

With Inlaid Brass.

Rugs, Flat-Weaves And Felt Floor Coverings, Horse Decorations, Afghan Saddles And

Saddle Covers.Many Eclectic Decorator Items.

Come And See!

950-B Comanche StreetSouth On Hwy 7 in Estes Park, Right Turn on Comanche, 2 Blocks Past Holiday Inn,

Half Block Up Hill On Left. Call: 970-586-8485, Cell: 970-215-6488 [email protected]

Call For Appointment, Or Take Your Chances And Come By.

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24 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Where to find the fun...

By Janice Mason

Keeping up with all the event offerings in town, Estes Parkorganizations fill the calendar year-round. Stop into theVisitors Center; park in one of the new, expanded park-

ing lots and stroll into town on the Riverwalk. Find favoritehaunts or check out something new in this beautiful gateway toRocky Mountain National Park.

Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)The CVB Visitors Center offers ample parking and shuttle

service through town and into Rocky Mountain National Park.The center, located at 500 Big Thompson Avenue, has increasedvisitor services, making vacations in Estes Park a relaxing, fun-filled experience. Helpful volunteer ambassadors assist visitors,providing maps and information. Brochures and souvenirs arelocated in the lobby. Community events are listed on the CVBWeb site — www.estesparkcvb.com. Click on Events and thenCalendar for vacation planning information. For more informa-tion, call the CVB at (970) 577-9900 or 1-800-44-Estes.

Art Center of Estes ParkThe Art Center of Estes Park Fine Art Gallery features juried

original art by Estes Valley and regional Colorado artists in abroad range of media. The center offers featured artist’s exhibitsthroughout the year, as well as a revolving collection from morethan 40 members. The gallery provides exhibit space for schoolchildren and aspiring artists. The center also offers art classes,slideshows and educational programs. The Art Center of EstesPark is located at 517 Big Thompson Avenue in Stanley Village.For more information, call (970) 586-5882 or visit www.artcenterofestes.com.

Cultural Arts Council of Estes ParkThe Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park presents visual and

performing arts programming year-round. The arts council andfine art gallery will open in its new location on June 1 — 423W. Elkhorn Avenue (directly in front of Performance Park out-door amphitheater). Look for grander and greater offeringsthrough the arts council this summer and beyond. For moreinformation, call (970) 586-9203 or visit www.estesarts.com.

Estes Park organizations havethe 411 on

vacation planning

Photo by Walt Hester

A baby enjoys one of the manyPerformance Park summer concerts.

LEAH’SLEAH’SLEAH’SCome visit(formerly Spirits of the Rocks)

owned by Leah Simmons DeCapio, Libby Hooper, and Carol Simmons, in "downtown" Glen Haven!

970-586-3831 www.leahshop.com

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LEAH’SGlen Haven

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Mention this ad for a free surprise gift! The 2008 Seasonstarts Saturday, May 10!In the summer, we are open daily: 9-6 (call for fall/winter hours)!

We feature fine arts & crafts from local as well as nationally recognized artists.New this summer: We are happy to introduce our new COFFEE & TEA CAFÉ!

We proudly serve locally roasted Kind CoffeeGlen Haven is located7 miles north of Estes Park. LEAH's is across the street from the "Inn of Glen Haven."

Estes Park MuseumThe Estes Park Museum collects, interprets and preserves local history

through permanent and temporary exhibits, programs and events. Themuseum educates visitors, exploring the rich history of Estes Park andRocky Mountain National Park. The Estes Park Museum is located at 200Fourth Street off of Highway 36 just west of Lake Estes. Museum admis-sion and programs are free. For more information, call the museum at(970) 586-6256 or visit www.estesnet.com/museum.

Estes Park Music FestivalThe Estes Park Music Festival offers a splendid summer concert series by

the Colorado Music Festival, conducted by the world-renowned conductorMichael Christie. The Music Festival presents a free Patriotic and Pops con-cert by the entire Colorado Music Festival orchestra in July. It also presentsa Sunday afternoon concert series at the historic Stanley Hotel, Novemberthrough April. For schedule information, call 586-9519 or visit www.estesparkmusicfestival.org.

Estes Park Public LibraryThe Estes Park Public Library offers a Summer Reading Program for

children, provides meeting space for a variety of community programmingand free Internet service by appointment. Visit the Estes Park PublicLibrary at 335 E. Elkhorn Avenue, call (970) 586-8116, or visitwww.estes.lib.co.us.

Fine Arts Guild of the RockiesThe Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies brings theater productions to the

Estes Valley year-round. They also offer the Fine Arts and Crafts Festival inSeptember. For more information, call the Cultural Arts Council of EstesPark at (970) 586-9203 or visit www.fineartsguild.org. Theater ticket infor-mation can be obtained by calling the Macdonald Book Shop at (970) 586-3450.

The Fine Arts Guild is also leading the call for a new Performing ArtsCenter in Estes Park. Progress has been made in raising the necessary fundsfor the construction of the new theater. For more information, visitwww.estesparktheater.com.

Estes Park Senior CenterThe Estes Park Senior Center has a busy activities schedule and serves

weekly lunches at noon. The Senior Center is located at 220 Fourth Streetand is open Monday through Friday. The Senior Center Summer BreakfastBuffets are open to the public and held on June 14, July 12, Aug. 9 andSept. 6, from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. The cost is $7/adults, $3/children ages 4 to7, free/children under age 4. No reservations are needed. For more informa-tion, call the Senior Center at (970) 586-2996 or visitwww.estesnet.com/seniorcenter.

Performance ParkPerformance Park outdoor amphitheater is located at 417 W. Elkhorn

Avenue at the west end of the Riverwalk. The beautiful rock backdrop cre-ates impeccable acoustics with a lawn in front of the stage, and tables andchairs along the river for visitor’s picnicking convenience. Performances takeplace May through August. For schedule information, call the CVB at(970) 577-9900.

Rocky Ridge Music CenterRocky Ridge Music Center (RRMC) is a summer music center/camp for

middle school, high school and college students. They offer chamber andorchestral music, private lessons and music theory for all types of instru-mentalists. Student and faculty concerts are offered throughout the summerat RRMC, located at 465 Longs Peak Road. For more information, call(970) 586-4031 or visit www.rockyridge.org.

Stanley MuseumThe Stanley Hotel, built by F.O. (Freelan Oscar) Stanley of Stanley

Steamer automobile fame, opened on June 22, 1909. The Stanley Museumis located at 517 Big Thompson Avenue in Lower Stanley Village. For moreinformation, call (970) 577-1903 or visit www.stanleymuseum.org.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 25

...the art, the music...

Photo by Walt Hester

Mother and daughter perform for the Estes Park Music Festival.

BECK ArchitectsARCHITECTURE, PLANNING, INTERIORS

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PASSIVE & ACTIVE SOLAR SYSTEMSSUSTAINABLE, HIGH PERFORMANCE HOMES

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26 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Photo by Janice Mason

Take the Riverwalk just south of West Elkhorn Avenue and follow the river to the waterwheel to Performance Park and beyond.

Discover the pedestrian pathBy Janice Mason

Take in the sights and sounds, slow down the pace and escape the rat race in Estes Park. Enjoythe view and the wildlife, or the sound of the rolling water along the Riverwalk. Grab a cup ofcoffee or stroll into one of the many shops along the way. Relax, you’re in Estes Park, far away

from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Fur & LeatherFur & LeatherFur & LeatherThe Most Impressive Collection of Outerwear in

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Men’s & Ladies’ Apparel

450 Moraine Ave. Estes Park, CO970-586-4539

(1/2 mile west of downtown on Highway 36)

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Lone Pine Leather • Scully Leather • Remy LeatherMotorcycle Wear • Hats • Lady Brighton Belts & Jewelry

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Store Celebrates 35 Years!

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 27

Lake Estes TrailPark at the Visitors Center (500 Big Thompson Avenue) and follow

the Riverwalk east to Lake Estes. Go the distance around the lake (3.75miles) or just enjoy a short stroll. Wildlife and magnificent views ofRocky Mountain National Park are the main attractions of the LakeEstes Trail.

RiverwalkFrom the Visitors Center, walk through the underpass and hike west

into town along the Riverwalk. Take a seat on the outdoor patio of anEstes Park restaurant or coffee shop. Enter shops from the back dooralong the Riverwalk and enjoy Estes Park shopping and nature along theway. The newly beautified Riverwalk Wiest Plaza expansion, starts atMoraine Avenue and winds up to West Elkhorn Avenue and turns intoFall River Trail. (The downtown Riverwalk is pedestrian only.)

Fall River TrailFall River Trail starts at West Elkhorn Avenue at the waterwheel. Walk

west to the outdoor Performance Park amphitheater where visitors enjoymusic performances all summer long. Stroll into the West Park Centerand check out the new Cultural Arts Council location. The trail contin-ues west along a wooded path on the Fall River and will eventually linkto Rocky Mountain National Park.

Knoll-Willows TrailFrom Bond Park, in the center of downtown, enter the Knoll-Willows

Trail from the north side of the Municipal Building. The trail winds upto the historic Birch Cabin and the ruins, which feature excellent viewsof Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Another trailheadstarts at the top of Wonderview Drive, across from the Stanley Hotel,and leads to the ruins.

Fish Creek TrailEnter Fish Creek Trail on the southeast end of Lake Estes. Go south

along Fish Creek Road past the high school and the Estes Park GolfCourse. Enjoy the view of Longs Peak along the way.

A dog stops his person to take a look at the Big Thompson River onBarlow Plaza along the Riverwalk.

457 E. Wonderview, Estes Park, CO

805171-800-607-3538x4022

Days (970) 481-5188Evenings 303-823-5022

[email protected] Photos: www.TomAdams.net

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381 WICHITAA River Runs Through It:

This unique, custom 3300 sq.ft. log home on 1.9 acres offers

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bathrooms, a 15,000 poundmoss rock fireplace, master

suite, large redwood deck in aforested setting. Lower level

has 2 car garage, 22’x16’ shop,22’x10’ bonus room, bedroomand full bath. Log cabin feelwith all amenities. $700,000

540 LAUREL LANE, #4Great little cabin with huge Longs Peak &Meeker & Divide views. Short walk to RockyMountain National Park & close to town.Income potential for short term vacationrental. Inviting deck for bar-b-que & snowcapped viewing. Classic Rocky Mountainretreat. $186,000

1963 KIOWAThe Best of everything…Granite, travertine &marble for all counters, floors and baths…Energy efficient, new furnace, central air,fresh air ventilation, Nile Sound system,media room, ether net, DSL, stained concretepatios front & back, gorgeous kitchencabinets, granite island w/professional gasrange, marble great room fireplace w/ledgerstone surround & wood mantel. Two acre lotnext to National Forest, southernexposure…and much more. $595,000

402 IROQUOISPinewood Springs Very secluded lot on theriver w/ over 1 acre of land & trees. 3bedroom-2 bath-2 car garage -new roof-fireplace-new furnace- many upgrades of flooring& fixtures. Back yard has large deck & hot tubin private forest setting. Unique location.$339,000

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24Ranch Estate: 4 bed-6 bath 2 mastersuites,open floor plan, granitecounters, wood cabinetry, islandkitchen w/eating area, dining room,6car spaces, barn, fenced pasture. 2+horse stall barn, full hay loft,corral,1CBT water share +pipe incl.,securitygate. 2 Central air/heat. ViewHorsetooth & Devils Backbone.$950,000

532 KIOWA ROADPrivate/secluded 5.5 acres, 3600 sqft well builthome. Clear-heart redwood siding concrete roof,custom cherry cabinets, corrian counters, islandkitchen, wood floors, master suite w/jetted tub&walk in closet. MIL quarters/ rec-room/kitchenette. 5 bed/4bath. Landscaping dripsystem. 2 horses ok. Room for out-buildings. 2 cargarage. Well off local road, private, peaceful,view home. Close to Estes Park, only 30 minutesto Boulder. $575,000

By Janice Mason

From warm, intimate gallery shows in winterto visions of painters dotting the RockyMountain landscape throughout the sum-

mer, the Estes Park art scene expands the heart,mind and soul. Now that the Cultural ArtsCouncil of Estes Park has a new home at 423 W.Elkhorn Avenue, the arts council will feature larg-er opening receptions with visiting musicians androom for its ever-growing programming schedule.

The arts council sits directly in front ofPerformance Park outdoor amphitheater, home tothe arts council’s Thursday Night Live musicseries.

“It opens up vistas and new possibilities — theproximity to Performance Park —with ampleparking,” said Lynda Vogel, executive director forthe Cultural Arts Council for the past 18 years.“We will also have a far greater physical presenceon Elkhorn. It’s now wide open — what we candevelop and bring.”

The arts council presents museum qualityshows including original paintings, sculpture,pottery, weaving, jewelry, woodcarving, NativeAmerican crafts, glasswork, handmade paper,photography and more.

The grand opening of the new Cultural ArtsCouncil of Estes Park will take place on June 1,with the arrival of the international exhibit, “Farand New Horizons.”

After the international show opens, the sum-mer programming will begin full swing with theSummer Art Walk featuring area galleries, andthe seventh annual Estes Park Plein Air 2008-Painting the Parks event, taking place Aug. 9through September.

Art walks present Estes Park’s finest arts coun-cil, member galleries. Locations often have artistson hand, demonstrating technique in differentart mediums. Most galleries are open dailythroughout the year, though exact hours varywith each location. Studio tours present an inti-mate look inside the life and work of the EstesPark artist. Art Walk maps are available at theCultural Arts Council, visitor’s centers and mem-ber galleries.

The Cultural Arts Council of Estes Parkenhances the quality and accessibility of visualand performing arts for people of all ages and hasbrought programming to the state of Colorado asa 501 (c)(3) non-profit arts agency since 1990. Itprovides free or affordable arts programming andacts as a vital information and support resourcefor the arts community.

Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.The Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park, locatedat 423 W. Elkhorn Avenue, is handicapped acces-sible with ample gallery-front parking. For moreinformation, contact the Cultural Arts Council at586-9203, [email protected] or visit www.estesarts.com.

28 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Revel in the artistic experienceCultural Arts Council of Estes Park — bigger and better than ever

Photos by Teresa Binstock

Left: LaNell Arndt paints thePark Theater during theplein air event, which takesplace in August. Above, thefinished product, “NextPerformance.” Below: Artistspaint subjects in RiversidePlaza at the Estes Park PleinAir Quick Draw event.

Summer scheduleJune 1 to July 6 — “Far and Near Horizons” featuring Landscape Artists

International (LAI) and International Plein Air Painters (IPAP) in theCultural Arts Council Fine Art Gallery. Contemporary landscape artistsseek to create environmental awareness, stewardship of the land and appre-ciation for landscape painting in this world tour. “Far and Near Horizons”includes 18 artists from Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic and the UnitedStates.

“We are excited to bring this caliber of work to Colorado and at thesame time, honored to be part of their worldwide mission using visual artsas the medium,” said Lynda S. Vogel, executive director of the Cultural ArtsCouncil of Estes Park, “As a gate-way community to RockyMountain National Park, wehave presented previous exhibi-tions that exemplify land stew-ardship and preservation throughnational tours like ‘Arts for theParks.’ We are grateful to workwith IPAP and LAI and hope thepublic will join us this summer aswe unveil ‘Far and NearHorizons’ in Colorado.”

The Cultural Arts CouncilFine Art Gallery is the onlyColorado stop on the world tour.The opening reception will takeplace from 1 to 4 p.m. Artistswill be on hand and refreshmentswill be served.

June 1 through Sept. 1 —“10th Summer Art Walk” featur-ing a self-guided tour of area gal-leries and artist studios. Tourmaps are available at the CulturalArts Council, visitor’s centers and participating galleries.

June 19 to Aug. 21 — Thursday Night Live at Performance Park, 417W. Elkhorn Avenue. The 10th annual summer concert series takes place onThursday nights at 7 p.m., weather permitting. Bring a blanket or chair andenjoy classical, jazz, folk, current music, theater and/or dance performances.

July 11 to Aug. 3 — “Legends & Lore II.” The tradition continues withthe second exhibition of art works from Estes Park’s past that also celebratestoday’s artistic heritage. The exhibit includes a collection of rarely seen art,objects and photographs on loan and a limited sale of art from private col-lections. Featured artists are Dorothy Carnine Scott, E.E. Herrmann andothers to be announced. The opening reception will take place on Friday,July 11, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Aug. 9 to Sept. 30 — Seventh annual Estes Park Plein Air 2008 -Painting the Parks. Beauty and inspiration go hand-in-hand when painterscome to the Estes Valley and Northern Rockies to paint the parks. Fiftyartists from across the nation arrive to paint on-location from Aug. 9through 22, choosing locations including, Rocky Mountain National Park,forest lands, river canyons, views along the Peak to Peak Scenic Highway,urban areas and/or people and places in Estes Park. Starting Aug. 23, thepublic can view the finished works on display through Sept. 30.

Aug. 21 — Estes Park Plein Air - Paint Our Town. Artists will paintalong the Riverwalk and throughout the downtown area from 9 a.m. to 5p.m.

Aug. 23 — Estes Park Plein Air Quick Draw and Auction. Watch asartists paint live models (or any scene) in a fast-paced, 90-minute timeframe from 8:30 a.m. to 12 pm. in Riverside Plaza, in the center of down-town Estes Park, on the Riverwalk. The auction immediately follows afterthe whistle denotes the end of the Quick Draw event.

Aug. 23 —Estes Park Plein Air Gala opening day festivities at the artscouncil and at Earthwood Collections, located at 141 E. Elkhorn Avenue.Fifty artists from across the country exhibit freshly painted works createdoutdoors and on location through August. The show opens to the public at12 p.m. Galareceptions andawards, in theamount of $7,000,are presented to thewinning artists.

For furtherschedule informa-tion continuingthroughout the endof the year andbeyond, visitwww.estesarts.com.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 29

Photos this page courtesy Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park

“Above Estes Park” by 2008 EPPA artist Tamara Simmons.

Counter-clockwise, paintings showing in the exhibit “Far andNear Horizons” at the Cultural ArtsCouncil’s Fine Art Gallery throughJuly 6: “Blooming Tree Adobe” byLeslie Allen; “Old Fountain” bySandra Nunes; “The Wind and Sea”by Kathryn A. McMahon.

30 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

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Wednesday Nightsat Performance Park

The Town of Estes Park spon-sors Wednesday Nights atPerformance Park from June

18 to Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. ThePerformance Park outdooramphitheater is located at 417 W.Elkhorn Avenue. There’s plenty ofparking adjacent to the park. Bringa lawn chair or blanket for comfort-able seating in the open airamphitheater. All concerts are free.

June 18 — Bonnie Lowdermilk:Jazz singer/pianist BonnieLowdermilk performs jazz stan-dards. She is also known for findingunknown treasures, which haverarely been performed or recorded.Her singing is charged with emo-tion and sensuality, and her voice issupple and clear with a warm, lowregister and luminous treble.

June 25 — Marimba Band: Themarimba is a musical instrument inthe percussion family. Keys or bars(usually made of wood) are struckwith mallets to produce uniquemusical tones.

July 2 — Estes Park Jazz BigBand directed by Chuck Varilek:The Estes Park Jazz Big Band per-forms music from the swing era tocontemporary compositions.

July 9 — Sferes & White: Thisacoustic duo has discovered anuncommon synergy, blending clearand luscious harmonies with com-plex and imaginative guitar playing.Their performances feature an eclec-tic and soulful combination ofblues, roots and rock.

July 16 — Dulcimer Orchestra:The Dulcimer Orchestra perform-ing folk, Irish, Scottish andAmerican traditional music on ham-mered and fretted dulcimers, guitar,bodhrán and penny whistle.

July 23 — O-Tones Brass Band:Original funk, Latin and soul mixedwith a serious helping of NewOrleans groove is what you get withthis eight-piece group. The O-Toneshave marched in parades, played atfestivals and Mardi Gras celebra-tions, taking the grooves out intothe crowds. They have also playednumerous concert venues and bars,opening for the Preservation HallJazz Band, among others.

July 30 — Lisa Bell: Jazz singerLisa Bell writes much of her ownmaterial, mixes in influences frompop music to Broadway, and craftscompelling modern arrangementsthat alternate between trumpet andsax on some tunes and non-tradi-tional jazz instruments such asdobro and pedal steel on others.

Aug. 6 — Acoustic Roots Trio:Randy Kelley and Bonnie Carol

accompany Nancy Cook on heroriginal songs in an acoustic trioincluding bass, guitar, mandolin,fiddle, hammered dulcimer, marim-ba and congas.

Aug. 13 — To be announcedAug. 20 — Clint Clymer:

Country vocalist Clint Clymer com-bines sounds reminiscent of Elvis,Jim Morrison and Chris Ledoux.

Aug. 27 — To be announcedFor more information, call (970)

577-9900, 800-44-ESTES or visitwww.estesparkcvb.com.

Thursday Night Live

The Cultural Arts Council ofEstes Park sponsors a series of freeconcerts on Thursday evenings at 7p.m. Performances take place fromJune 26 to Aug. 21 at 7 p.m. atPerformance Park outdooramphitheater. The Cultural ArtsCouncil of Estes Park is located at423 W. Elkhorn Avenue directly infront of Performance Park. For acomplete listing of the scheduledperformances, call (970) 586-9203or visit www.estesarts.com.

Compiled by Janice Mason

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 31

Performance ParkThe ultimate outdoor music experience

Photo by Walt Hester

The crowd enjoying Jazz Fest,which takes place in May.

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The EstesPark MusicFestival

offers an excitingmix of professionalmusic performances

year-round.Outstanding classical,

international, vocal andinstrumental musicians take

the stage to measure up to theexcellence only the Estes Park MusicFestival provides.

The summer offers programming by theColorado Music Festival chamber orchestra fea-turing American conductor Michael Christie.Born in Buffalo, New York, in 1974, Christie’sexceptional career spans conducting posts onthree continents. After gaining early internationalrecognition in 1995, when he was awarded a spe-cial prize for “Outstanding Potential” at the FirstInternational Sibelius Conductor’s Competitionin Helsinki, Christie has been consistently identi-fied among the most talented and most closelywatched conductors of his generation. Christiewas appointed music director of the ColoradoMusic Festival in 2000. During his first six sea-sons, he has increased festival audiences throughhis enthusiastic leadership, innovative program-ming and widely acclaimed audience-buildinginitiatives.

The Sounds of Summer indoor concerts, fea-turing the Colorado Music Festival, will be heldin the historic, acoustically ideal Concert Hall atthe Stanley Hotel, located at 333 W. WonderviewAvenue, on June 20, July 21 and 28 at 7:30 p.m.Subscription and individual tickets are available.For more information, schedules and ticket infor-mation, call 586-9519 or visit www.estesparkmu-sicfestival.org.

The Sounds of Summer 2008Featuring the Colorado Music Festival

June 30 — “Magnificent Mozart” featuring Michael Christie, conductor, and Glenn Einschlag, bassoon.Mozart: Serenade No. 6 in D Major, K. 239, “Serenata notturna”Mozart: Bassoon Concerto in B-flat Major, K. 191Mozart: Symphony No. 36 in C Major, K. 425, “Linz”

July 21 — Joana Carneiro, guest conductor, and Bjorn Ranheim, celloDvorak: Serenade for StringsHaydn: Cello Concerto in D MajorKodaly: Dances of GalantaGuest conductor Joana Carneiro has attracted

considerable attention as one of the most out-standing young conductors working today. Shecurrently serves as assistant conductor with theLos Angeles Philharmonic, working closely withEsa-Pekka Salonen. Carneiro was principal guestconductor of the Metropolitan Orchestra ofLisbon in 2005-2006, and was named officialguest conductor of the Gulbenkian Orchestra in2006-2007, working with the orchestra at leastfour weeks every year.

July 28— Tapage, tap dance duo featuring Michael Christie, conductorRevueltas: Homenaje a Frederico Lorca (Homage to Lorca)Revueltas: SensemayaPiazzolla: Four for TangoAlouette (tap Solo)Frank: Leyendas: Andean WalkaboutGinastera: Variaciones ConcertantesA unique dancing duet, Mari Fujibayashi

(Japan) and Olivia Rosenkrantz (France), com-bine their Asian and European roots with a NewYork twist. Tapage’s choreographic approachincorporates dramatic intensity and rhythmiccomplexity with a contemporary gesture.

Patriotism and Pops concert: The free outdoorPatriotic Pops Concert featuring Scott O’Neil,guest conductor, begins at 7 p.m. on July 7 atPerformance Park outdoor amphitheater, 417 W.Elkhorn Avenue. Always an Independence cele-bration favorite, the entire Colorado MusicFestival orchestra takes the Performance Parkstage for a summer evening of patriotic music.Audience members pack the outdoor venue to lis-ten and sing along to songs in tribute to theUnited States of America.

The Estes Park Music Festival also presents aWinter Series of exquisite performances at theHistoric Stanley Hotel. The concert series takesplace November through April on Sunday after-noons at 2 p.m. featuring a variety of chorale,instrumental and solo performances.

Compiled by Janice Mason

32 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Estes Park Music FestivalExquisite performances

Photo by Walt Hester

Colorado Music Festival conductor MichaelChristie takes a moment to enjoy the sing-along portion of the Patriotic and Pops con-cert held at Performance Park in July.

Courtesy photo

Tapage, tap dance duo will perform July 28.Photo by Walt Hester

Cello in concert at Performance Park.

By Janice Mason

Filmmakers, festival attendees and industryprofessionals from around the world attendthe Estes Park Film Festival each year to

enjoy a diverse selection of independent, feature-length films, shorts and documentaries. The EstesPark Film Festival has been showcasing some ofthe world’s best in cutting edge, independent cin-ema since 2006.

The third annual Estes Park Film Festival willtake place from Sept. 11 to 14, at the HistoricPark Theatre. Founded in 2005, the annual EstesPark Film Festival traditionally takes place thesecond weekend of September. Local residentsSean Doherty and Cliff Armitage, co-directors,created the festival.

“Part of our mission is to bring independentfilm to Estes Park and to promote the preserva-tion of cinematic landmarks like the ParkTheatre,” said Doherty. “Alternative events likethis help to keep theaters like this open, which Ithink is great.”

Doherty and Armitage present a call for entrieseach year to the independent filmmakers. Filmsare then selected and accepted for the festival.

The weekend presents educational seminarsand numerous parties, including the opening

party, parties after each showing and the awardsgala. The parties offer audiences the opportunityto meet the artists and talk to directors abouttheir experience in the theatre.

“It’s really cool because you get to watch themovie and when the movie’s done, you get tomeet the actors, askquestions and learn from them,” said Doherty.“It’s really a unique experience.”

The Park Theatre, constructed by J.L. Jackson

in 1913 and completed by C.H. Bond in 1915,stands as a historic landmark in Estes Park. Thebuilding was later sold to Ralph Gwynn in 1922,who operated the theatre until his death. Ola andRichard Stanger purchased the building in 1982and the family continues to show films at thetheatre to this day.

The Park Theatre is located at 130 MoraineAvenue. For ticket information, call (970) 231-2580 or visit www.estesparkfilm.com.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 33

Estes ParkFilm Festival

Creating a tradition

Photos by Walt Hester

The crowd mingles in the lobby after one of the films during the 2007 festival.

Sean Doherty, co-founder of the Film Festival, converses during a2007 after-film party in the lobby.

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34 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Rocky Mountain National Parkis home to 60 species ofmammals. This incredible

diversity of wildlife is a reflection ofthe wide range of habitats found inthe Park due to variations in eleva-tion, climate and plant communi-ties.

Mammals in the Park can be sep-arated into three main groups: thesmall mammals, the hooved animalsor ungulates, and the carnivores ormeat eaters.

Small animalsThere are 40 species of small

mammals in RMNP. They range insize from the water shrew to thebeaver, which can weigh up to 50pounds. With the exception of theshrews, the bats and the rabbits,these animals are all rodents.Following is a brief sampling ofsome of the more prominent smallmammals in the Park.

Wyoming groundsquirrel

The Wyoming ground squirrel isa commonly seen animal in thePark during the summer. Althoughthey hibernate for seven to eightmonths, they are an important preyfor coyotes, and raptors such ashawks and eagles. A winter hiberna-tor, the ground squirrel may be seenthroughout the Park from the mon-tane valleys to alpine levels.

Yellow-bellied marmot

Yellow-bellied marmots are colo-nial animals that live throughoutthe Park but are especially commonabove tree line. They are one of thelargest rodents in the Park, reaching

weights of over 10 pounds.Marmots can be seen on a numberof days in the Park and along TrailRidge Road.

Litter sizes average a bit over fourpups, of which about half survivetheir first year.

Yellow-bellied marmots chuck,whistle, and trill when alarmed bypredators. Only the whistles andtrills are loud alarm calls.

PikaThe pika, or “rock rabbit” is the

smallest member of the rabbit fami-ly. They live on rock slides and talusslopes in the subalpine zones at9,500 feet and higher, and abovetree line. Although well-camou-flaged, pikas can often be located bytheir piercing call that sounds like ahigh-pitched “eep”.

Pikas are generalist herbivores,eating almost anything that growsnear their rocky habitat. Each pikacollects vegetation during the shortalpine summer and stores it in a"hay pile" in the rocks. Pikas don'thibernate. They use their hay pilesas a food source during the longalpine winter. They also continue toforage on what ever is availableunder the snow, including bark andlichens.

Pikas are individually territorial,fiercely defending portions of atalus slope from each other duringthe summer haying season.

PorcupinesFairly common but not often

seen in all forests throughout thePark. Like other rodents, porcu-pines chew bones and antlers toobtain minerals. They are frequentvisitors to backcountry camp-grounds, mainly because tools andbackpacks that humans have

On the Wild Side

Photo by John Cordsen

Porcupines are usually timid ani-mals that avoid contact withhumans.

Photo by John Cordsen

Yellow-bellied marmots livethroughout the Park but aremore common above tree line.

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 35

touched have a desired salty residueon them.

BeaverBeaver weave a complex web in

Rocky Mountain National Park. Beaveruse willow and aspen for food and tobuild dams and lodges.

There are some beaver in the Parkwith a population thriving in Endovalleynear the headwaters of the BigThompson River.

Beaver were plentiful before there was alot of trapping in Beaver Meadows in 1941and 1942. There are no beaver there now.

Snowshoe HareSnowshoe hare are famous for

their seasonal molts. In the sum-mer, the coat is a grizzled rusty orgrayish brown. During the winter,the fur is almost entirely white,except for black eyelids and theblackened tips on the ears. Thesoles of the feet are densely furred,with stiff hairs (forming the snow-shoe) on the hind feet.

Snowshoe hare browse on greengrasses, and forbs.

Major predators of snowshoe hareinclude red foxes, coyotes and bobcats.

UngulatesThere are four species of ungu-

lates or hooved mammals found inthe Park. They can be separated intotwo distinct families: the deer fami-ly, which have antlers that are shedand regrow each year, and the sheepfamily, which carry true horns thatgrow throughout the life of the ani-mal.

The deer familyElk (Wapiti)

Elk are the Park’s most commonungulate. Brown-colored animalswith white rump patches, they canbe seen throughout the Park.

Elk can be dangerous to humans.In the spring, mother elk fiercelyprotect their newborn calves, ward-ing off any and all creatures thatcome between them and their youngby slashing with their hooves.During the fall, bull elk becomeaggressive during the breeding rut.Clashes between massive bull elk arecommon. They use their antlers asweapons as they lock in combatwith other bulls for breeding rightsto large harems of cow elk. Visitorsshould be cautious and notapproach elk during any season andto watch for any aggressive displaysby the animals (raised ears, glaringlooks, stamping of feet, snorting,etc.) If they move away, the visitorhas approached too closely. Despite

their close proximity to humans, elkare still wild animals.

MooseThe moose is the largest member

of the deer family. Moose are foundmore commonly in the KawuneecheValley on the west side of the Park,however, they have been seen on theeast side, including Sprague Lakeand the southwest corner of EstesPark near Hwy. 7 and Fishcreek.

Mule deerOne look at a mule deer and it is

easy to see how they got their name.Their large ears are distinctive. Muledeer are usually a dark gray-brown,with a small white rump patch anda small, black-tipped tail.

Photo by John Cordsen

Moose are more commonly seenon the Park’s west side.

Photo by Walt Hester

Sheep Lakes in Horseshoe Park is a popular fall hangout for bighornsheep.

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36 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Mule deer are browsers and eat agreat variety of vegetable matter,including fresh green leaves, twigs,lower branches of trees, and variousgrasses.

They are commonly seen alongthe roadways in the Park.

Males are larger than females.The bucks' antlers, which startgrowth in spring and are shedaround December each year, arehigh and branch forward.

Mule deer are excellent swim-mers.

The sheep and goatfamily

Bighorn sheepBighorn sheep can be found at

many locations throughout the Parkbut are commonly seen along FallRiver Road in the Horseshoe Parkarea or along Trail Ridge Road atthe Rock Cut.

Bighorn have a sandy-brown coatand a white rump patch. Rams havemassive spirally brown horns. Eweshave short, spiky brown horns.

Bighorn are primarily grazers andmay migrate seasonally between lowgrassy slopes and the alpine tundra.Escape terrain with rocky ledges isusually nearby.

The carnivoresThere are four families of carni-

vore in the Park, the weasel, dog, catand bear families.

The weasel familyThe weasels generally have elon-

gated bodies, short legs, and glands,which produce a strong-smellingscent. Pine martens are commonthroughout the forested areas of thePark. Other members of the weaselfamily found in RMNP include thelong-tailed weasel and badger.

The cat familyTwo members of the cat family

are found in Rocky MountainNational Park. The largest of the

two is the mountain lion or cougar.These big cats are rarely seen.Cougars are secretive, solitaryhunters that feed primarily on deerbut will also eat smaller game suchas rabbits and rodents if food sup-plies are limited. Cougars are skillednight hunters with excellent eyesightand superb hearing.

The other member of the catfamily is the bobcat. These cats gettheir name from their short, bobbedtail. Bobcats are medium-sized cats,slightly smaller and similar inappearance to their cousin the lynx.

Their coat varies in color fromshades of buff or brown fur withspotted or lined markings in darkbrown or black. A bobcat measures17 to 23 inches in height and 25 to41 inches in length. Males weighapproximately 16 to 28 pounds,while females typically weigh 10 to18 pounds.

Rabbits are the staple of the bob-cat diet. They are also known to eatrodents, birds, bats and even adultdeer (usually killed during the win-ter months).

The dog familyThe coyote is a medium-sized

grayish dog with a slender muzzle,large pointed ears, and a bushy tail.Coyotes are often seen patrolling theroad right-of-ways and meadows insearch of small rodents.

The bear familyBlack bears aren’t necessarily

black. Their colors range from blackto a light cinnamon brown.

The black bear is approximatelyfour to seven feet from nose to tail,and two to three feet high at thewithers. It has small eyes, roundedears, a long snout, a large body, ashort tail, and shaggy hair.

Bears are adaptable. They can befound anywhere from the forests ofthe Park to the neighborhoods ofEstes Park.

Photo by Tony Wedick

Members of the weasel family are noted for their short legs andelongated bodies.

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 37

Celtic tradition on parade at Scots Fest1976-2008: 32 Years of Celtic Tradition

September 4-7, 2008

Always held the weekend after Labor Day, the Longs PeakScottish/Irish Highland Festival is a bagpipeful of fun for folks of allnationalities and generations.

The festival starts with the 7:30 p.m. Thursday Tattoo. The field is openFriday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Evening activities Fridayand Saturday at 7:30 are: the Colorado Celtic Rock Concert, the FolkConcert, and new this year, the Longs Peak Concert, Estes Tattoo, andstarting at 10 p.m, the Ceilidh, to pick up after the other events end andthe celebrating continues into the wee hours of the next morning. Sundaymorning, the Pancake Breakfast, where you can dine with the Jousters andAthletes, will begin at 8 a.m until 10 a.m. Sunday evening marks the end ofthe festival with the Honored Guest Banquet, a superb meal complete withdress kilts, suits, evening dress attire for the ladies, a cash bar and live enter-tainment beginning with cocktails at 7 p.m. and dinner at 7:30 p.m.

The parade starts at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at the west end of themain street (Elkhorn Avenue) and continues to the Visitor’s Center just pastthe Hwy 34/36 intersection. There are shuttle busses that will take peoplefrom the Festival Field to the Municipal Building on Elkhorn Avenue, start-ing at 8 a.m. on Saturday. They will make a loop all day Saturday and

Sunday from downtown to the Festival Field and will stop at 6 p.m. bothdays.

There will be pipers piping and drummers drumming, kilts and plumedbonnets, brave steeds bearing medieval jousters in combat, caber, stone andhammer-throwing athletes.

You’ll hear international and world-famous singers and entertainers forfree on the field and watch the “creme de la crème” of young dancers exe-cuting the Highland, Folk and Irish dances of their heritage. The dogsindigenous to the British Isles will win your hearts and tempt you to add a“family member.” Fine merchants and talented crafters with exotic Celticmerchandise, beautiful clothing, exquisite jewelry, fascinating heraldry his-tories and art in all its many guises will satisfy the most ardent souvenir col-lector. Add the clans with their gorgeous tartan displays, hospitality tentsand joyous reunions, and you cannot but feel welcome and happy.

Hungry, are you? Then the Festival is a haven of the familiar Americanfoods and Celtic specialties — turkey legs, hamburgers, ice cream, Scotch,beer, haggis, meat pies, funnel cakes and much, much more!

Come to Estes Park for the Festival. Renew your spirits, dance to thepipes and find out what a Celtic tradition means.

Photos by Walt Hester

Star power — see the heavens at Estes Park Memorial Observatory

Orion? Cassiopeia? Venus? If you’re looking toreally see the stars, planets and constella-tions in the clear night skies, you can

mosey on over to Estes Park’s newest starattraction, the Estes Park MemorialObservatory, located on the groundsof Estes Park High School.TheAngels Above Foundation (AAF)is the operating entity of theEstes Park MemorialObservatory. It came aboutas a result of Mike andCarole Connolly andMichele Johnson wish-ing to build an obser-vatory in honor ofMike and Carole’schildren andMichele’s siblings,Thomas andChristianConnolly, whodied July 2,2005, in atraffic acci-dent. TheConnollys allhave a back-ground inscience,math andastronomy.Mike, aretired engi-neer fromLockheedMartinCorporation,spent many anight with hischildren view-ing stars andplanets. Becauseof this familyinterest and thetragic death ofThomas andChristian, the conceptof a memorial observa-tory came into being.

The AAF is utilizingthe concept of the LittleThompson Observatory(LTO) located in Berthoud,Colo. The LTO built an observa-tory on land owned by theBerthoud School District. The LTOoperates the facility and it is used foreducation of school students and the gener-al public. The Connollys approached the ParkR-3 School District about the concept of the AAFbuilding an observatory on property the school districtwould donate. The operation of the completed observatory isby the AAF and expenses associated with insurance and utilities arepaid by the school district in exchange for the observatory being offered to school district students and the general public as an educational resource. TheAAF provides the building and maintenance and operation of the observatory for the use of students of the school district as well as the general public.The Observatory will be used by the school district in their science curriculum and as a tool to encourage learning by students and members of the publicin principles of science, math and astronomy.

38 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

The dome arrives at the observatory.

Photo by Walt Hester

This is a place unlike any other, just ask anyonewho has ever been here. A place with walls thatwhisper, floors that creak underfoot, a placewith a rare history, a patina left by time and anendless parade of characters…

Adapted from a Vacation Edition story by Valerie Pehrson

The sky was heavy with impending snow and Eagle Plume’swas warm and welcoming.

There was the smell of a fire in the grate, and lunch cooking. Ann Strange Owl, her husband Dayton Raben, their

daughter Nico Strange Owl, and Nico’s son, Dah’som are allfixtures in the shop.

Creaking floorboards added to the rustic atmosphere asAnn and Nico explained how they came to the area, and howthey came to be the caretakers and owners of this uniqueand historical shop.

“Ann is from Montana originally, our reservation is inSouthwest Montana, and Dayton, is from Wyoming. Theymarried in the late 50s in Wyoming when interracial marriages werestill illegal,” said Nico. “Shortly after that they moved to California wherethere was more tolerance at the time. After I wasborn, they moved to Colorado to be closer tofamily again.”

She continues, “Ann eventually becamelonesome for her family and culture, andsomeone suggested that we visit an Indian manby the name of Charles Eagle Plume. That was inthe 60s. We became fast friends with Charles, and like so manyfamilies, fell in love with the Estes area.”.

She carries on, “Charles had always wanted my mother tohelp him at the shop, and she finally did take him up on that.Eventually Dayton was coaxed into helping out, then I finally came towork here in the summers while at CSU.”

“I had a shop of my own in Ft Collins then, and he would come

(it is beautiful)(it is beautiful)

continued on next page.

Charles Eagle Plume, 1939

Lakota Shirt, circa 1875, Charles Eagle Plume Collection

have coffee withme and we would visit,

since he closed the shop inthe wintertime,” interjected Strange Owl.

The two women fall into reminisces of Charles EaglePlume, telling stories about how he loved to tell stories.One in particular brings laughter bubbling up between the two of

them, the question of Charles’s age.“He always claimed to be 105, right mom?” Asked Nico.

Ann nodded with a slow smile spreading across her face asshe stirred a pot of stew.

Nico continued. “Every spring we would have to figureout how many years ago he would have to have been bornto be 105 that year.”

“I remember he always had a note behind the desk,”added Ann. “A cheat sheet.”

Ann and Charles mutually adopted each other afteryears of fielding questions about whether they wererelated.

“People would ask if he was my father and I alwayshad this long story to tell them, or people would askhim if I was his daughter,” explained Ann. “Oneafternoon he said, ‘just tell them we are father anddaughter.’ And things changed after that. Peoplewould come and say ‘how is your father,’ or ‘where is

your daughter?’”Family isn’t always about who you are born to, and Nico echoed that

sentiment.“He took care of us like family. He was really generous with all of us,

and we took care of him as he got older, too.”“He was a nice person,” agreed Ann. “He was so good to

all the people here. We still miss him a lot.”Blue jays and chickadees hopped around the feeder while

the women prepared lunch.Estes Park has thousands of items that are Native American

themed, but not necessarily made by Native Americansthemselves, and supporting indigenous artists is important tothe family, obviously.

“We belong to the Indian Arts and Crafts Association, orIACA,” explained Nico. “And they are part of this wholemovement to police that kind of thing. They work to enforcelaws that aim to stop people from marketing things as beingNative American made when they really aren’t. That’s why we tryto work with the artists directly when we can, otherwise it istaking money out of Indian artist’s pockets and that’s just notright.”

The family has had some experience in this particular area, when

Ann Strange Owl andDayton Raben

Eagle Plume’sCirca 1934

Charles Eagle Plumewith young visitors

several years ago someone tried to sell them some questionable merchandise. “We were looking at beadwork that a fellow we had known for many years

was showing us,” said Nico. “It looked kind of funny, it was sewn with fishingline instead of thread and the way that the beads were laid down just wasn’tquite right.”

“So we started looking in to it, and we discovered this man had gotten thesethings from another dealer who was outsourcing to China. They weremarketing it as Native American made, and selling it dirt-cheap. The bizarrething was, he was claiming that the beadworker that made these pieces was myaunt. He was just using her name because she had worked for him 20 or 30years earlier. He had started out working with Indian people and then found acheaper way to make money.”

The wind picked up, the snow started blowing in, and we sat down to lunch.

Charles Eagle PlumeCharles Eagle Plume claimed to have been born on the Montana-Canadian

border. He was Blackfeet Indian, French and German, and grew up in poverty.Because he was a storyteller, the time frame in which he came to Colorado is

shrouded in mystery. While studying English at CU he met Katherine Lindsay,proprietress of the Whatnot Inn and he began working for her in the 1930s.

Katherine eventually married and changed the focus of the business toIndian arts and crafts, renaming it Perkins Trading Post. When times wereslow, Charles, who was known to dress in full regalia and with bow and arrowin hand, would ambush carloads of tourists on the road and sell themmoccasins or point them towards the trading post.

Over the decades Katherine and Charles collected historic and prehistoricIndian artifacts, many of which still remain at the Eagle Plume’s. Over onethousand of these treasures adorn their beloved trading post today, comprisingthe Charles Eagle Plume Collection. Bead and quillwork from the Plains, ceramics and kachina dolls from the Southwest, andmany fine baskets beckon the eye throughout the post.

When Katherine died, Eagle Plume took over the shop. To get through thewinter season, he would travel the country as a paid lecturer at supper clubsand other venues speaking about the benefits of a college education and civilrights for all people.

In the 1980s some young Lakota men robbed the Eagle Plume shop. Theywere prosecuted and convicted in Boulder County, and Eagle Plume offered topay for the young men to go to college when they got out of prison. None ofthem took him up on the offer.

In the late 1980s he received an honorary doctorate from his alma mater forhis lifetime achievements of championing civil rights and awareness andadvocacy for the Native American.

Eagle Plume loved children, and very young visitors to his shop wouldreceive a feather from him as a present. He would say that there was a methodto his madness, as young children want to toucheverything. With feather in hand, they wouldgently dust everything in sight!

Children who were a little older would beoffered a trade. Eagle Plume would hold out anarrowhead, and offer to trade the young person forthe most valuable thing they possessed. Thechildren would offer their mothers or diamonds, but Eagle Plumewould correct them, saying that their friendship was the mostvaluable thing they possessed.

Although this dynamic man is no longer at the trading post, heremains so in spirit. His collection of arrowheads and feathers remainat his desk amid cigarette burns and old “cheat sheets”, where they are stillgifted to children that wander in the door, wide-eyed at all there is to see atEagle Plume’s Trading Post.

Eagle Plume’s Today

Nico Strange Owl

Ann Strange Owl

A few years back, I was asked totravel to Utah for an appraisal. I hadno idea that the journey would bringme back to my ancestors.

When I arrived, I was astounded tosee a number of historic Cheyennepieces waiting for my appraisal.Everything was so familiar - thebeadwork designs in rich reds andblues meant for men and women’sclothing, and even old beadworkdesigns meant to influence the fate ofCheyenne infants. To touch these itemswas to touch my relatives lost long ago.

After learning from the man who hadhired me that these pieces wereoriginally collected by his great-greatgrandfather, Captain John Robert Livermore, an Army officer assigned toFort Keogh, Montana, I was thunderstruck. I knew from the stories I hadbeen told by my parents and grandparents, that this is where my ancestorshad been held prior to being moved to our present day reservation insoutheastern Montana. Was it possible that one of my grandmothers hadsewn these beads down onto this buckskin I held in my hand?

With this solemn knowledge, I began to examine and photograph theitems that lay in front of me. As I handled each piece, I wonderedabout the woman that lovingly made it, what man had worn it withpride into battle, or whose baby had slept peacefully in the cradleboardunder a cottonwood tree while his mother picked rosehips.

After I had finished examining the beadwork, my client brought myattention to a large ledger style drawing on muslin cloth that he hadretrieved from another room. While I began work on the ledgerdrawing, he explained that Captain Livermore commissioned thepainting from a Cheyenne man by the name of White Bird. Livermorehad White Bird make enough muslin drawings to cover the walls of hissmall cabin at Fort Keogh to prevent the log chinking from falling ontothe floors. My client brought out photos of Captain Livermore standingnear his cabin at the fort, interior photos of the cabin where WhiteBird’s paintings hung, and his military orders dating to 1865. The pasthad come alive.White Bird

An article from the Denver Times, January 19th 1913, describes threeof White Bird’s paintings that were to be featured in and “IndianPageant” in Denver. According to the article, White Bird was sixteen atthe time of the Battle of the Little Bighorn and had a clear memory ofthe battle and the strategies used by the Indian forces that day. Havinggraduated from West Point, and presumably having a keen interest inthe battle, Livermore commissioned White Bird to draw a panorama ofthe entire battle. This piece was shown at the pageant and eventuallydonated to the museum at West Point in 1958. The Denver Art Museumalso has a number of muslin paintings by White Bird donated byLivermore’s descendants.

White Bird can be seen in the center of the top section of the ledgerdrawing, next to the married couple, wearing a hat. His name is alsolisted in the ledger roll of Cheyenne transferred to the Tongue RiverAgency (our present day reservation) from Fort Keogh, Montana as“Who-pah-vi-kiss - White Bird - Husband, age 35”.Red Paint Woman

When I arrived back to Eagle Plume’s from Utah, I began in earnestmy research into the Cheyenne beadworkand ledger drawing. I had permission frommy client to share photos of the ledgerdrawing with my parents to gain their insight.Dayton, of course, immediately begandeciphering and “reading” the ledgerdrawing, eager to understand its meaning.When my mother first saw the drawing, she was very quiet,looking at it carefully for a long time before finally saying,“hmm, I wonder…”.

“What?” Dayton and I both asked her at the same time.Ann said, “Well, I’m not sure. But remember, Nico, how wepaint our cheek before we dance?” slowly making a circleon her cheek with her index finger, realization dawning. Atthat moment we all grasped that the woman in the ledger

drawing was Ann’s great grandmother, Red Paint Woman.My mother always told me the story of Red Paint Woman as she

helped me into my buckskin dress or braided my hair. It was duringthese times she would paint a red circle on my cheek, reminding methat we paint this circle to honor one of our highly respectedgrandmothers – Red Paint Woman. Then she would go on to remindme of what it takes to be respected as a Cheyenne woman.

Red Paint Woman was born with a perfectly round strawberrybirthmark on her cheek. Cheyenne people always admired her perfectred paint – the birthmark. Years ago my grandmother, Grace StrangeOwl, told my mother this same story as she helped my mother into herbuckskin dress, braided her hair, and painted that round mark on hercheek in honor of Red Paint Woman.

As we all looked at the ledger painting again, we saw that the youngbride had a round red mark on her cheek.Heirlooms for Sale

In our travels and dealings, my family has seen many historicCheyenne objects, from Dull Knife’s clothing on display, to a pair ofwoman’s moccasins taken from a grave, to remarkably old cradleboardshoused in a European museum. Among the Cheyenne, items of thissort were either gifted, traded, or sold, but were more often buried withthe person that owned them. For these reasons, many Northern PlainsIndians do not possess family heirlooms in the usual sense.

Charles Eagle Plume, Ann’s adopted father, gifted to her a fullybeaded Southern Cheyenne woman’s outfit. It is one of Ann’s prizedpossessions. We proudly display it here at the shop and love to visitwith people about it.

On one occasion before this, we were able to identify a SouthernCheyenne beaded blanket strip that had belonged to one of Ann’s greatuncles. We asked to purchase it, but sadly it was not for sale.

So, after we realized that the woman in this ledger drawing was thegrandmother we still honor, I called my client with the news and withan offer of purchase that he accepted. After making our last paymentto him, the ledger drawing of Red Paint Woman’s wedding ceremonywas ours to share.

(they are married)(they are married)

Plains ledger drawings are read from right to left beginning at thelower right corner. White Bird’s drawing includes all the tradi-tional elements of a Cheyenne courtship and wedding. Stop bythe trading post sometime – we’d love to have you see the drawingand tell you the story of Red Paint Woman’s courtship and mar-riage.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 43

CelebrateJuly 4thweekend

By Janice Mason

The biggest, event-filled week of thesummer happens over theIndependence Day holiday. Estes

Park’s July 4th schedule presents music,Arabian horses, vintage cars and the spec-tacular fireworks display over Lake Estes.

Independence weekschedule

July 2 — Estes Park Jazz Big Band,under the direction of Chuck Varilek, at 7p.m. at Performance Park, 417 W.Elkhorn Avenue. Bring lawn chairs orblankets to enjoy a night of jazz musicunder the stars.

July 2 — Queen City Jazz Band per-forms a SummerFest concert in the WalterRuesch Auditorium at the YMCA of theRockies at 7:30 p.m. Call 586-3341 fordetails.

July 3, 4 and 5 — Arabian Horse Showat the Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209Manford Avenue. Arabian horse competi-tions begin each day at 9 a.m.

July 4 — Annual Holiday PancakeBreakfast at Our Lady of the MountainsCatholic Church, 920 Big ThompsonAvenue, from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Thebreakfast is a benefit for CrossroadsMinistry, a non-profit organization assist-ing people in need throughout the EstesValley.

July 4 — Coolest Car Show, featuringvintage vehicles from the 1920s andbeyond, in Bond Park, downtown EstesPark, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Close-upinspections cost $4 for adults, $2 for chil-dren and students, $10 for the whole fam-ily, and free for children under six-years-old.

July 4 — Estes Park Village BandPatriotic Concert under the direction ofChuck Varilek at Performance Park, 417W. Elkhorn Avenue (time to beannounced/call (970) 577-9900).

July 4 — Independence Day Fireworksover Lake Estes at 9:30 p.m. One ofColorado’s most brilliant fireworks dis-plays.

July 5 and 6 — Music in theMountains Faculty Concerts at RockyRidge Music Center, 465 Longs Peak Rd.,at 7:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $15; seniors65 and over/$12; students 12- to 18-years-old/$12; children under 12-years-old/free. Call 586-4031 for more informa-tion.

July 7 — Colorado Music FestivalOrchestra Patriotic and Pops Concert atPerformance Park, 417 W. Elkhorn Ave.,at 7 p.m. a free presentation sponsored bythe Estes Park Music Festival.

Photos by Walt Hester

44 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

By Mike Oatley

With four miles of shoreline and more than 2,500 surface acres,Lake Estes stands apart from the recreational opportunitiesoffered by the mountains, trails, small streams and alpine lakes

that lure most visitors to the Estes Valley. The lake, created by the construc-tion of Olympus Dam on the Big Thompson River in the late 1940s is theonly local body of water where you can — or would need to — fire up anoutboard engine.

The primary attraction of Lake Estes is fishing, and in this regard thelake has a variety of game fish for anglers to pursue that goes beyond thetrout that are the target everywhere else.

Over the years, the lake has seen layers of regular and experimental (andprobably bootleg) stockings that have been aimed at fortifying the anglingopportunities. Everything from yellow perch and walleyes to tiger muskieshave been introduced into the lake, either officially or surreptitiously, inaddition to the trout you’d expect to find in it.

Still, the bulk of the take remains the rainbow trout the ColoradoDivision of Wildlife stocks into the lake each spring. Few seem to growmuch beyond 16 inches or so, or at least the larger fish are rarely hooked: inthe annual Lake Estes Fishing Derby early each June, the vast majority offish entered are ‘bows just over a foot long.

Not that there’s anything wrong with that: the lake’s rainbows are rela-

tively easy to catch, and unlike many of the other waters in and outsideRocky Mountain National Park, there are no special regulations restrictinghow anglers may fish.

But bigger quarry lurk in the lake: a two-pound brown trout won lastyear’s fishing derby easily, and those knowledgeable about the lake agreethat it is home to some sizeable browns which have moved downstreamfrom the Big Thompson and taken up residence in the lake.

A few tiger muskies may yet swim in Lake Estes. It has been a few yearssince a stocking program featuring the pike-muskellunge hybrid seemedfind little success and was abandoned, but any holdovers would be largespecimens by now.

Access to the lake comes at three primary points: at the Cherokee Drawday use area off US 36 on the lake’s southwest shoreline, at Fisherman’sNook on the lake’s north shore, and at the Lake Estes Marina, on the east-ern end of the lake’s north shoreline.

The marina, at 1170 Big Thompson Avenue, is the focus point of activi-ty on the lake. Swinging into daily summer operations in early May, themarina offers boat rentals ranging from single-passenger kayaks to nine-pas-senger pontoons that are perfect for a sightseeing cruise to enjoy the spec-tacular setting of the surrounding mountains and peaks.

The marina also has a boat launch to get your own boat in the water,and the marina store sells fishing licenses and fishing supplies, as well asother items like snacks and sunscreen to make your day at the lake evenmore enjoyable.

Photo by Walt Hester

Lake Estes is just big enough — and plenty windy often enough — for small sailboats.

On the waterfrontLake Estes recreation stands apart

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 45

Lake Estes TrailBut not all the fun at Lake Estes takes place on the water. In addition to

a beach for playing in the sand, the marina offers volleyball, horseshowsand picnic areas, as well as a recently constructed pavilion that may be rent-ed for group gatherings.

The Lake Estes Trail is another popular draw, offering walking, jogging,skating, biking and wildlife viewing as it skirts the waterline as it circles thelake.

In addition to access points at Cherokee Draw, Fisherman’s Nook andthe Lake Estes Marina, the paved trail can be accessed from the Conventionand Visitors Bureau parking areas on the river just west of the lake andfrom parking areas in Stanley Park.

Lake Estes is generally too cold for water skiing or sailboarding without awetsuit.

The marina rents several types of bikes, including mountain bikes,tandems, and a surrey-type bike, and child carriers are also available. TheLake Estes Marina is at 1770 Big Thompson Avenue, and can be reached at970- 586-2011 or [email protected].

Marys LakeAnother popular and interesting place to fish in the immediate Estes

Park area is Marys Lake, on Marys Lake Road near the intersection withCO-7 (South St. Vrain Drive) on the south side of town. Boating is notallowed and all fishing is from the shoreline at Marys Lake because theunderwater outlet of this holding tank in the Colorado-Big Thompson (C-BT) water project creates strong vortex currents and the inlet often sendsplumes of water arcing across the lake. But the fishing can be quite good asthe Division of Wildlife stocks the lake with catchable sized rainbow trout.Rumor has it that the occasional lake trout or kokanee salmon transportedunder the Continental Divide from the West Slope by the tunnel that con-nects the two sides of the C-BT turns up in the catch.

WhitewaterIn most years, snow-melt coursing out of the Park in the Big Thompson

and Fall Rivers put enough water in the section of the Big T above LakesEstes to make it worth dropping a kayak in between mid-May and mid-Julyor so, depending on how the summer, and the winter before, unfold.Though in-stream improvements in the Fall, above its confluence with theBig Thompson downtown, were aimed at paddlers, most focus on the so-called Dairy Queen Hole, just below the confluence, and the run behindElkhorn Avenue shops below.

What makes Estes Valley whitewater paddling interesting and unique,though, is the opportunity to run the Big Thompson through the canyonin the fall. This is a time of year when, as a rule, mountain streams areapproaching their lowest natural flows of the year and play boats and pad-dles have been gathering dust for weeks.

But it’s a time when the Big T often gets a major squirt of water as theBureau of Reclamation shuts down components in the trans-DivideColorado-Big Thompson water project, often pushing the flows to 400cubic feet per second and higher.

But be warned: at the 400 cfs, the Big T is transformed from a mildmannered trout stream, a characteristic it typically maintains right throughrun-off relative to the unregulated streams in the area, to a proving groundfor experienced paddlers.

Photo by Mike Oatley

Contrary to what you’d expect, some of the best whitewater kayak-ing of the year happens in the fall in years when the Bureau ofReclamation releases high flows out of Olympus Dam.

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46 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Bird, bird, bird —

Since the desig-nation of RockyMountain

National Park in1915, there havebeen 280 species ofbirds reported forthis area, includingthe park, ArapahoNational RecreationArea and the townsof Estes Park andGranby. So, if youwant to see ourfeathered friends,you’ve flocked to theright place.

In 2000, RockyMountain NationalPark was designatedas a GlobalImportant BirdArea. This designa-tion recognizes thevital role of the Parkin the perpetuationof bird species.

Raptors, or birdsof prey, are a symbolof freedom, graceand power for manybackcountry users. Climbers in particular seem to feel a special kinship withthese magnificent predators, and enjoy the rare chance of looking down

upon a bird of prey from above as it soars past a climb. Actually, climbersand birds of prey are often attracted to the same environment.

Golden eagles are highly sensitive to disturbance during their courtshipand nesting cycle. Courtship and nest selection begins in February, and theeagles often rotate between several established nest sites in an area.

Prairie falcons, peregrine falcons and various owl species are also com-monly encountered near climbing areas. Although some birds of prey vigor-ously defend their nests, raptors in general are very vulnerable to humanimpacts. In fact, their future and our enjoyment of them may well bedependent on our ability to respect their requirements for life. Closures maybe put in place to protect raptors and other wildlife.

Where the birds are• Clark’s nutcrackers, Steller’s jays, golden eagles and prairie falcons can

be seen along Trail Ridge Road.• White-tailed ptarmigans, some of the most sought-after birds in Rocky

Mountain National Park, are common but difficult to spot. For best results,hike on the tundra trails and look carefully. Ptarmigans usually remain still,relying on their natural camouflage for protection.

• American dippers, or water ouzels, can be found along most streams.Listen for their loud call, similar to the rapid clicking of two stones togeth-er, as they fly up and down their territories.

• Mountain bluebirds have returned to the lower areas in RockyMountain National Park, a sure sign that spring is here. Mountain bluebirdsare small blue birds (male) or grayish brown birds with blue tinge on tailand flight feathers (female) that nest in cavities. They prefer to perch onfences, trees and shrubs, surveying broad open areas for their next meal.Rocky Mountain National Park also has numbers of western bluebirds, andoccasional reports of eastern bluebirds, so you may be able to see all threevarieties on your next visit to the park.

• Great horned owls are year-round residents in the park. During Januaryand February, they establish territories and court.

• Red-tailed hawks are the most commonly observed hawks, and the

Rescued red-tailed hawk.

Photo by Walt Hester

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Bird is the wordmost commonly seen raptors in Rocky Mountain National Park. They areoften seen throughout the year, but resident hawks may move to lower ele-vation areas such as the eastern plains of Colorado, during severe winters.Red-tailed hawks are the largest of the hawks. They get their name fromtheir rich, russet red, broadly rounded tails, which are clearly visible whilethey soar, their favorite mode of hunting.

• Broad-tailed hummingbirds visit the park to breed. The breeding sea-son for these western hummingbirds begins shortly after their arrival fromthe Mexican highlands in April and lasts for about two months. Femalesbuild the nests on the horizontal limbs of aspen, cottonwood, willow andconiferous trees, along streams and rivers near meadows and forested areas.Shortly after the youngsters have fledged, the broad-tailed hummingbirdshead up toward treeline and alpine meadows, where nectar-producing flow-ers are still blooming in profusion. The young birds have a short amount oftime to learn their life skills before they migrate back to Mexico inSeptember. Rocky Mountain National Park has reliable reports of six speciesof hummingbirds occurring within the Park’s boundaries.

Backyard Birds of Estes ParkThe following birds have been identified as inhabitants of Estes Park:

American Crow, American Dipper, American Goldfinch, American Green-winged Teal, American Kestrel, American Robin, Bald Eagle, Band-tailedPigeon, Belted Kingfisher, Black-billed Magpie, Black-capped Chickadee,Brown Creeper, Brown-headed Cowbird, Canada Goose, Cassin’s Finch,Clark’s Nutcracker, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, CommonRaven, Dark-eyed Junco, Downy Woodpecker, European Starling, EveningGrosbeak, Gray Jay, Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch, Great Blue Heron, HairyWoodpecker, Hooded Merganser, House Finch, House Sparrow, Mallard,Mountain Chickadee, Northern Flicker, Northern Pygmy-Owl, NorthernShrike, Peregrine Falcon, Pine Siskin, Pygmy Nuthatch, Red Crossbill, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Red-tailed Hawk, Ring-billed Gull, Rock Dove, Steller’sJay, White-breasted Nuthatch and Wilson’s Snipe.

The Rocky Mountain Nature Association offers Field Seminars on bird-

ing in June and July. See the Web site at rmna.org for more information.According to Audubon Magazine, Estes Park is a “birder’s paradise.” Be

birds of a feather and flock here to enjoy the heavenly plumage.

Bluebird resting on a twig.Photo by Walt Hester

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By Janice Mason

Estes Park hosts the largest Scandinavian Midsummer Festival inColorado in June. Scandinavians celebrate the summer solstice, thelongest day of the year, with a festival of flowers, food, textiles, arts

and crafts, music and traditional dance. The Scandinavian Midsummer Festival will take place on June 28 and

29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Bond Park, downtown Estes Park. Musiciansand dancers entertain both days at the festival. Children enjoy the festivitiesaround the Midsummer pole decorated with flowers and ribbons.Professional Scandinavian dance instructors assist visitors in traditional

48 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Scandinavian Midsummer FestivalFlowers, dancing, sugar and everything Scandinavian

Photo by Walt Hester

Photo by John Cordsen

Festivities begin on Saturday morning in downtown Bond Park withthe raising of the Midsummer pole.

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 49

movements throughout thefestival. Bakers offer delec-table treats.

The ScandinavianMidsummer Festival bringsthe traditions of Norway,Sweden, Finland, Denmarkand Iceland to Estes Park.Festivities begin onSaturday morning indowntown Bond Park withthe raising of theMidsummer pole followedby an opening ceremony.Colorfully dressed familiesenter the park carrying theflags of their native lands.

The day continues withentertainment provided bya variety of folk dancegroups and Scandinavianmusicians. All activities arefree and open to the pub-lic.

Midsummer was origi-nally a fertility festival withcustoms and rituals associ-ated with nature and thehope for a good autumnharvest. The celebrationhas its roots in pre-Christian practices and is aday when the nature spiritsjoin humans to rejoice inthe long days of summer.For more information, visitwww.estesmidsummer.com. Photo by Walt Hester

Professional Scandinavian dancers perform at the festival.

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50 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Explore the Estes Park MuseumBy Janice Mason

The Estes Park Museum offers permanentand temporary exhibits celebrating NativeAmericans, explorers, pioneers, moun-

taineers, lodge owners of Estes Park and RockyMountain National Park. The museum housesmore than 20,000 artifacts, including a 1909Stanley Steamer, documents, manuscripts, maps,textiles, original art, photographs, prints andbooks. The collection represents much of the fas-cinating history of the Estes Park area.

Explore temporary exhibits in the NationalPark Service building that served as RockyMountain National Park’s first headquarters. Seethe historic 1910 Cobb-Macdonald log cabin,also located on the museum grounds. Browse theEstes Park Museum Shop and pick up a scheduleof free educational programs and historic tours.There is something for everyone.

The Estes Park Museum collects, interpretsand preserves local history, and presents exhibits,programs and events, for the education and bene-fit of residents and visitors of all ages. The muse-um is located on the corner of U.S. Highway 36and Fourth Street and admission is free.

The museum is open Monday throughSaturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundaysfrom 1 to 5 p.m., May through October. Winterhours are Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.,November through April. For more information,call 586-6256 or visit www.estesnet.com/museum.

The staff of the Estes Park Museum also oper-ate the Historic Fall River Hydroplant, openMemorial Day through Labor Day, Tuesdaythrough Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors aresure to enjoy the fascinating story of the first

electric plant in Estes Park, built by Hotelier F.O.Stanley in 1907 to provide electricity to hisfamous hotel by the power of Fall River.Admission is free. For more information, call586-6256 or visit www.estesnet.com/hydroplant.

Above photo by Janice Mason. Below photo by Walt Hester

The Estes Park Museum sits on the corner of Highway 36 and Fourth Street. Below, the bustof Joel Estes stands in front of the 1910 Cobb-Macdonald log cabin behind the museum.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 51

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52 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Meet the artisansBy Janice Mason

The beautiful sunlit gallery features the works of over 40 local andregional artists displaying a wide range of media. Established in1987, the Art Center of Estes Park presents revolving exhibits by

artists, whose works are juried and selected. The center offers art classes,slide presentations and educational programs for the community. Classesare offered for children in the summer and youth scholarships are availableto cover the cost for inquiring students. The gallery also provides exhibitspace for those aspiring artists.

The “Lines Into Shapes” national show in September brings artists fromacross the nation and abroad to display a diversity of work. From sculptureto paintings, photography to jewelry, the annual “Lines Into Shapes” exhib-it presents the most anticipated event of the year. A number of awards arepresented in numerous categories.

Art Center of Estes Park opening receptions are typically held on thefirst night of each exhibit from 5 to 7 p.m. Refreshments are served. Artistsand community members meet to enjoy the camaraderie and the art.

The Art Center of Estes Park inspires

Photo by Walt Hester

“Arabesque” by Mollie Walsh showed in 2007 “Lines Into Shapes.”

Photo by Janice Mason

Photo courtesy Cynthia Price Reedy

“Art Supplies“ by Cynthia Price Reedy was featured in April.

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 53

Exhibit schedule

Now showing through June 22 — “Artistic Expression in Fiber”Art quilts by Annette Kennedy, known for making colorful wall creations and silk garments.June 27 to Aug. 3 — “Nature’s Forms”Featuring the photography of Del Hope and the lifelike bronze equine and other sculptures of Carol Cunningham.Aug. 8 to Sept. 14 —“Watercolor - Here and There”Featuring an array of colorful watercolors depicting images of flowers, landscapes and architecture by Pam England.Sept. 19 to Oct. 4 — “Lines into Shapes”Annual nationally juried exhibit representing a diverse selection of mediums. Cash prizes are awarded the night of the opening reception.Oct. 10 to Nov. 16 — “Enchanting Wearable Art”Whimsical, wire wrap/bead and fossil jewelry by Alice League and the colorful creations of life-long fiber and knitwear artist, Janice Kay.Nov. 21 to Dec. 31 — “Nature’s Tranquility”Mel Wilson shows wildlife and nature photography of Rocky Mountain National Park and other locations.The Art Center of Estes Park is a non-profit organization, which pro-

vides a facility to support and promote the work of local and regionalartists. The proceeds benefit both the artist and contribute to the ArtCenter’s educational and community outreach programs.

The Art Center is located at 517 Big Thompson Avenue in StanleyVillage and is handicapped accessible. Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily and the all exhibits are free and open to the public. Winter hours areFriday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call586-5882 or visit www.artcenterofestes.com.

Photo by Walt Hester

“Wrapped in Red” by Kathie Wheeler showed in the 2007 “LinesInto Shapes” exhibit.

Photo by Walt Hester

“On the Wall” by Joan Wolfer showed in the 2007 “Lines IntoShapes” exhibit.

Great for Gifts!Great for Gifts!Show that You ClimbedShow that You Climbed

14,255 Foot Longs Peak!14,255 Foot Longs Peak!

Stop By Any RMNP Gift Shop,Stop By Any RMNP Gift Shop,Chrysalis at the StanleyChrysalis at the Stanley

333 Wonderview Drive333 Wonderview DriveOutdoor WorldOutdoor World

156 E. Elkhorn Avenue156 E. Elkhorn AvenueRocky Mountain TopsRocky Mountain Tops

101 E. Elkhorn Avenue101 E. Elkhorn Avenueor LongsPeakSummitClub.comor LongsPeakSummitClub.com

To Purchase PinTo Purchase Pin

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14,255 Foot Longs Peak!14,255 Foot Longs Peak!

Stop By Any RMNP Gift Shop,Stop By Any RMNP Gift Shop,Chrysalis at the StanleyChrysalis at the Stanley

333 Wonderview Drive333 Wonderview DriveOutdoor WorldOutdoor World

156 E. Elkhorn Avenue156 E. Elkhorn AvenueRocky Mountain TopsRocky Mountain Tops

101 E. Elkhorn Avenue101 E. Elkhorn Avenueor LongsPeakSummitClub.comor LongsPeakSummitClub.com

To Purchase PinTo Purchase Pin

20-1

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54 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

The flowers that bloom in the spring

Wildflower-lovers are never disappointedin June and July when the meadowsand hillsides of the Rockies around

Estes Park are alive with the sights and soundsof color splashing all around. Autumn visitorscan relax among the golden aspens and rust col-ors or enjoy the rowdier antics of the elk rut(mating season). Winter is an alpine wonder-land. Spring brings an explosion of wildflowers,making May through August a dazzling displayof fire-worked colors.

Weeds? No way! What may look like an

unkempt lawn to the casual observer is actuallyan ecosystem of surprising diversity. Smallchanges in alpine topography and climate fac-tors allow for a variety of plant communitiesand species. The alpine climate, with its coldtemperatures, fierce winds, heavy snows andrugged terrain, is the most severe climate onEarth. Rocky Mountain National Park has manyspecies of alpine flowers with special adaptationsthat enable them to survive and flourish in whatresearchers describe as the Earth’s harshest cli-mate.

Rocky Mountain Nature Association FieldSeminar offers a course on alpine flowersTuesday, July 1, for a fee, and on identifyingwildflowers, Wednesday, July 2. For informa-tion, write the Rocky Mountain Field Seminar& Conference Center, 1895 Fall River Rd.,Estes Park, CO 80517, or see the Web site atrmna.org.

At Trio Falls, you can see three differentwaterfalls in one area, with great wildflowers inbloom in season.

Photo by Walt Hester

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 55

Lily LakeThis hike provides a gentler viewing of wildflowers. Enos Mills, the

“father of Rocky Mountain National Park,” enjoyed walking to Lily Lakefrom his nearby cabin. Check along the mile-long trail through this relative-ly low-elevation area for wildflowers in the spring and early summer.

The best times for wildflowers may be the second week through the thirdweek of July. Elevations dictate what is and what is not in bloom at any par-ticular time. Elevations around Estes Park generally produce pasque flowersfound usually on Ponderosa Pine south-facing hillsides about the first threeweeks of April. Various penstemmons will be found starting in June alongroadsides. Columbine appear in late June through early August, dependingon elevation (the higher up, the later the bloom). Trail Ridge Road is usual-ly open by Memorial Day, but late snows can delay this up to a week ormore. Fall River Road opens at the same time or much later, again depend-ing on Mother Nature.

The Colorado Rockies are arguably the wildflower capital of NorthAmerica, and Rocky Mountain National Park is the region’s high-countryshowcase. In the middle elevations of RMNP (from 6,000 to 9,000 feet),you’ll find arnica, sego lilies, blue columbine and meadowrue in the pine

and aspen forests. The July breezes bring scarlet paintbrush, blue penstem-mons, orange sneezeweed, purple fringed gentians and plenty more. Higherup on the mountains, brilliant bursts of tundra wildflowers bloom and diequickly, including phlox, wild iris, alpine sunflower, alpine avens, pale-blueharebell and moss campion.

Dream and Emerald Lakes About 40 kinds of wildflowers contribute colorful accents, including

some spring bloomers coming out in summer where snow lingers late. Toinsure a quick start on a hike to the three lakes, hop the shuttle. The busyBear Lake parking lot is nearly always full. The trail begins between theBear Lake information booths and rises to Nymph Lake, followed soon bywell-named Dream Lake. The last pitch to reach Emerald Lake is steep andrugged, but worth the effort. This is a good summer trail on which to viewmarsh marigold, globeflower and pink bog laurel.

Gem LakeAn extraordinary saxifrage, called telesonix, blooms here in July. This

pink flower found here (and on Pikes Peak) tucks itself into crevices in themounded granite surrounding Gem Lake. Devil’s Gulch Road (which beganas MacGregor Avenue) has trailhead parking for about 20 vehicles, and itpays to arrive early or to wait until late afternoon.

Tundra World/Toll MemorialRocky Mountain National Park is such a treasured resource that it has

been designated an International Biosphere Reserve. Famed Trail RidgeRoad, the highest continuous highway in the nation, reaches heights of12,183 feet. Six miles east of the Alpine Visitor Center is the site of theTundra World Trail — a window into an ecosystem equivalent to going tothe Arctic Circle. Since the growing season high above treeline here is short,a mid-July visit is your best bet.

Continued from page 54

Photo by Walt Hester

Flowers: the hills are alive with color

We invite you to sample a selection of award-winning

Colorado wines.

www.snowypeakswinery.com292 Moraine Avenue

Estes Park, CO970-586-2099

Everything you need for a picnic in the park, including the basket.

20-2

2855

Featuring Colorado-Made WinesCheeses ~ Crackers ~ Preserves

Gifts and More

Guided Winery ToursFamily-Friendly Tasting Room

20-1

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56 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

By Mike Oatley

It has not always been called the Rooftop Rodeo, or even a rodeo, but theRooftop Rodeo can trace its roots back 100 years, to a July, 1908, whenan article in the sixth issue of The Mountaineer reported that “The

Glorious Fourth Was Duly Celebrated” and that a “Genuine Wild Westshow provide(d) plenty of thrills for large crowd, including many Easterntourists.”

It was just a bronc busting competition then, and it took place under themidday sun, but otherwise it sounds like the first of what eventually becamethe Rooftop Rodeo would be recognizable to us today.

Except that today, cowboys and cowgirls come from all over to competein one of the smallest rodeos in one of the loveliest settings on the circuit.

The Rooftop Rodeo in its current form goes back to 1941, and in the

post-war years it became an annual event.In recent years it has blossomed into one favorite stop on the regional

circuit, winning three straight PRCA Cowboy’s Choice Awards for themountain states region from 1994 to 1996, four times being nominated forthe PRCA’s Small Rodeo of the Year award, and twice winning.

Last year, the Rooftop Rodeo was not only a nominee for that thataward, which it last one in 2006, the rodeo also won the Most Improvedaward for the mountain states circuit after large playback monitor wasdeployed to get fans in the stands replays and close-ups of the action.

And the little rodeo at the Stanley Fairgrounds will continue that tradi-tion again this year with six nights of rodeo performances that will includesaddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, bareback bronc riding,barrel racing and bull riding, along with one for the kids, mutton bustin’.

The mutton bustin' competition in the arena each night gives kids achance to step into the spotlight. Each night, 10 helmet-wearing children

The

rodeoon the

top of theworld

The Rooftop Rodeo’s roots go back 100 years

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 57

between the ages of five and eight will sit on sheep and hang on as long asthey can.

Rodeo Week will kick off, as it does every year, with the Rooftop RodeoParade through downtown Estes Park. This year, that will be on Tuesday,July 8, with a 10:30 a.m. start. The parade includes floats, bands, horsebackriders and, of course, this year’s rodeo royalty, in a procession that will makeits way down Elkhorn Avenue and then on to the Stanley Fairgrounds.

New to Rodeo Week this year will be the first of a planned annual bene-fit golf tournament to be played at the Estes Park Golf Course. Last year,the Rooftop Rodeo Committee raised several thousand dollars for cancerresearch through the 'Tough Enough To Wear Pink' program during therodeo. This year, they hope to increase the amount they raise even moremoney through the tournament. For more information [email protected] or call 970-586-6104.

2008 Rooftop Rodeo ScheduleRodeo Parade Tuesday, July 8 at 10:30 a.m.Downtown Estes Park to the Fairgrounds

PRCA Rodeo Tuesday, July 8 through Sunday, July 13Stanley Fairgrounds

PRCA rodeos each night at 6:45 p.m. with preshow entertainmentbeginning at 7:30. Both general admission and box seat tickets areavailable for each rodeo performance. General admission seats are notreserved and prices are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-11. Boxseat tickets are $20 for all ages. To order tickets, or for more informationabout the award winning Rooftop Rodeo, call the Estes Park Specialevents department at 970-586-6104.

The kid’s mutton bustin’ competition and the pageantry of theparade are as much a part of the Rooftop Rodeo as the perfor-mances by the pros under the arena’s bright lights each night.

Photos by Walt Hester

Elkhorn Avenue

North St. Vrain

Lake Estes

Estes ParkLaundracenters

Estes ParkLaundracenters

in Town

South St. Vrain

Estes Park LaundracentersThe Largest Coin-Op Laundry in Estes!

Nina says,“If your clothes have spots,

visit Estes ParkLaundracenters!

EXTENDED HOURS:Open 5 A.M. - 11 P.M.

EVERYDAY!

Convenient to Downtown Shopping andRocky Mountain National Park

Two Locations with Plenty of Parking!• 172 S. St. Vrain Ave. Across from the Holiday Inn• 183 W. Riverside Dr. 2 doors N of the Post Office

970-481-9900 20-1

6927

58 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Old F

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Highest pointHighest pointon roadon road

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AlpineAlpineVisitorVisitorCenterCenter

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Trail Ridge Road winds gently through some of the most breathtakingscenery in the state. Visitors to the area who are interested in takingthe drive should set aside a leisurely day, bring a camera, and hop in

the car for a tour on the highest continuous paved road in North America.The highway to the sky covers the 48 miles between Estes Park on

Rocky Mountain National Park’s (RMNP) east side, and Grand Lake onthe west side.

Construction of Trail Ridge Road began in the autumn of 1929 and wasfinished to Fall River Pass in the summer of 1932. The road was built tomake up for the old Fall River route, which was too narrow for increasingmotorized traffic, full of hairpin switchbacks, and prone to snow slides.

Engineers of the road were mindful of the magnificence of the surround-ing landscape and were cautious that the road wouldn’t interfere with thevistas around them. When possible, the rocks that were blasted during theroad’s construction were used to build retaining walls.

The maximum grade on the road does not exceed seven percent, andeight miles of the road is 11,000 feet above sea level. At its highest point,Trail Ridge Road peaks at a dizzying 12,183 feet in elevation. Motoristsventuring out from either Estes Park or Grand Lake climb around 4,000feet in elevation in a few minutes, beginning in montane forests of aspenand pine before entering sub alpine forests of fir and spruce.

Motorists tend to try and reach timberline quickly. Slow down and takeyour time, enjoying all the climate zones along the journey. When youreach timberline, the last of the trees are twisted and stunted against thetundra.

Some animals that motorists might encounter along the way include the

Colorado’s‘Highway to the Sky’

Trail Ridge Road Offers Stunning Views

See Trail Ridge: Page 59

TC

20-16904

Fun Horse RidesRanging from one hour to all day

rides. Our stables offer a variety of

trails; many traveling into Rocky

Mountain National Park!

No Worries...we match each rider’s

ability with our horses’ personalities.

Additional Western Festivities:• Pony rides for young children

• Hayrides with chuckwagon dinners -

Tuesdays & Saturdays.

Special group rates available.Reservations recommended.

Jackson Stables is located at the YMCA of the RockiesLocated on Hwy. 66, Estes Park, CO

PUBLIC WELCOME

JACKSON STABLES, Inc.YMCA of The Rockies LiveryAllen & Julie JacksonP.O. BOX 20549, ESTES PARK, CO 80511970-586-3341 ext. 1140/1149Fax: 970-577-1401 Winter Office: 970-586-6748www.jacksonstables.com

Open to

the Public

April

thru Oct.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 59

bighorn sheep, elk, pikas, marmots,moose (mostly on the west side ofRMNP), and ptarmigans.

Plant life is diverse, despite whatappears to be incredibly hostile condi-tions here for most of the year.

There are around 200 species offragile, tiny alpine plants that hug theearth beside the road. Their growingseason may only last 40 days, but thelittle plants bloom in great sweeps ofyellow, red, pink, blue, and violet.

The Tundra World Nature Trail isa fantastic place to see these delicatedisplays without damaging them; ahalf hour walk begins near the park-ing lot at Rock Cut.

The tundra is an important andfragile environment, and it is stronglyrecommended that you do not stepoutside of the designated path or pickflowers.

The annual spring plowing of TrailRidge Road is a Herculean undertak-ing. Crews generally start plowing inmid-April. Plowing Trail Ridge cancost in excess of $36,000 and takes anaverage of 42 days to accomplish. TheNational Park Service keeps theirplows in top working order duringthe plowing by fueling, oiling, andgreasing them every morning. Arotary plow, called the ‘pioneer rotary’clears the centerline of the road all

day, while a second rotary widens theroad. A grader and bulldozer thenpulls the snow towards the side of theroad. Runoff from the snow banks isdiverted into drains and ditches. Atthe end of the day, the equipment isparked at Rainbow Curve to avoidthe machinery being stranded bypassing storms.

Trail Ridge Road closes with thefirst heavy snowfall of the seasonand remains closed in the winter,generally reopening on MemorialDay weekend. Nature has a greatdeal to say about the scheduling of

this road, and it is not uncommonfor visitors to drive between six-footwalls of snow even at midsummer.

Atop Trail Ridge Road is theAlpine Visitors Center, wheremotorists can stop and have a snack,purchase souvenirs, and browseexhibits that are staffed with Parkrangers who are happy to answerquestions and share information onthis spectacular area.

Some things to remember whiletraveling on Trail Ridge Road:

• Bring a jacket, even if it a brightwarm day. At the high elevations on

Trail Ridge Road, it may be 20 to 30degrees cooler than the temperaturesin Estes Park or Grand Lake.

• The high elevations may causealtitude sickness in some people.Drink plenty of water. The elevationmay also aggravate heart or lungconditions in some people.

• Afternoon thunderstorms arecommon in the mountains in thesummer months. It is also veryimportant to be aware of lightningat the high elevations found on TrailRidge Road.

• If you see a beautiful scene orwildlife that you would like to lookmore closely at, be sure to pull safelyoff the road to stop. Many accidentsare caused by people stopping in thecenter of the road to photographanimals or scenery.

• Be on the lookout for wildlifeon the road or on the sides of theroad. Deer and elk on the side ofthe road may startle and leap in thepath of vehicles.

• Warn oncoming vehicles ofwildlife in the road by flashing yourheadlights at them.

Trail Ridge Road is not a toll road,but you must pay the entrance fee atRMNP to travel on the road. Fees forthe summer 2008 season are $20 for aseven-day entrance fee for passengervehicles, $10 per person per night ona bicycle or motorcycle, or $35 for anannual parks pass.

Trail RidgeContinued from page 58

TG File Photo by Walt Hester

Visitors can enjoy a break atop Trail Ridge Road at the AlpineVisitors Center.

Estes Park Medical CenterYour peace of mind while on summer vacation – we’re here 24/7!

FULL SERVICE, CRITICAL ACCESS HOSPITAL AND LEVEL IV TRAUMA CENTER

EMERGENCY CALL 911 www.epmedcenter.com970-586-2317“Providing Excellent Health Care and Promoting Community Wellness in the Estes Valley”

555 Prospect Avenue – Just 3 blocks off Highway 36 to Stanley Avenue; then right on Prospect. Follow the signs to the Emergency Room.

20-17108

60 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

By Mike Oatley

Apparently, not everyone comes to Estes Park to hike the backcountry.If you don’t think so, try getting a round of golf in on a July morn-ing without a tee time.

It goes without saying that Estes Park’s two golf courses, with 27 holesbetween them, offer some of the most scenic golfing you can find any-where. The 18-hole Estes Park Golf Course has even been included on a listof the most beautiful golf courses in the United States, and the nine-holeLake Estes Golf Course keeps the golfing going on all year round, as it isopen for play in the winter when weather allows.

Estes Park Golf CourseThe Estes Park Golf Course, open mid-April through October, winds

over rolling uplands in the Estes Valley, surrounded by mountain splendor.Frequently, golfers will share the course with herds of elk, mule deer, andthe occasional coyote.

The 18-hole course plays at 5,250 yards from the front tees and 6,400yards from the back tees, and is a par-72 course except from the champi-onship tees, where it rates a 71.

Resident green fees are $33, non-resident green fees are $41, with late-day rates of $25 and $31, respectively. Electric carts, pull carts and clubs areavailable for rent.

The amenities at the Estes Park Gold Course include a filly outfitted proshop, a newly remodeled driving range, and the Hangar Restaurant, com-plete with a deck with great views, for drink and meal at the conclusion ofyour round.

Lake Estes Golf CourseFor a shorter round down by Lake Estes, or for winter golf, the nine-

Hole Lake Estes Executive Golf Course fits the bill.Laid out as a par 31 from each set of tees, the course stretches from

2,026 yards to 2,209 on three sets of tee boxes, and plays over flatter terrainthan the Estes Park Golf Course.

Ah, but the water. The course straddles the Big Thompson River and liesadjacent to Lake Estes, adding plenty of challenge to the intimate layout ofthe course.

A pro shop and practice facility round out the services offered at theLakes Estes Golf Course.

27 holes in a one-of-a-kind settingPlay short or long and almost always with the elk

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 61

Located at 690 Big Thompson Avenue, the nine-hole green fees rate is$13 for residents and $16 for non-residents, with 18-hole rates at $22 and$25, and a P.M. rates of $11 and $14. Pull carts and clubs are available forrental.

Winter golfIt may seem unlikely, but Estes Park winters are often scattered with

plenty of golf-able days between November and March, as the fairways areoften free of snow, allowing an afternoon round to be tacked on the secondhalf of a day in Estes Park. When conditions allow, golfers can play unlim-ited rounds on the course fir $7, no tee time required.

Tee-times are strongly recommended at both courses during the peakseason, especially for morning rounds, and can be made by calling the EstesPark Golf course at 866- 586-8146 ext. 0 or the Lake Estes Golf Course at970-586-8176. Weekday times may be made beginning seven days inadvance, weekend tee times may be made eight or nine days in advance bycalling at 4 p.m. on the Friday of the previous weekend. Steel Spikes arenot allowed on either course.

Groups of 20 or more are invited to plan tee-times in advance. Foradvance tee-times and for help planning your outing contact course proMark Miller at 970-586-8146, ext. 4. or email: [email protected] . Areservation fee of $5 per person will be required and will be returned to youin the form of gift certificates for merchandise in the pro shop.

With mountain valley settings, Estes Park’s two golf courses havebeautiful views, and offer two choices, longer with more slope, andshort but with water hazards. The elk will likely join you on the fair-ways in either case.

Photos by Walt Hester

AERIAL TRAMWAYAERIAL TRAMWAY• PICNIC AREAS

• SNACK BAR

• HIKING TRAILS

• GIFT SHOPS

Open 9 a.m. Daily

Ride to the top of Prospect MountainView Rocky Mountain National Park, the Continental Divide and Longs Peak!

(Children under 6 ride FREE with Parent)420 E. Riverside Dr. • Estes Park • 586-3675

www.estestram.com

CELEBRATING

YEARS53CELEBRATING

YEARS5320

-168

43

Opening DayMay 24, 2008

62 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Following two seasons of success, modifications to the freeShopper Shuttle system, which begins operating June 28, havebeen established. Changes effect scheduling and route modifi-

cations.Shuttles will operate daily through Labor Day. After September 1, the shuttles will continue making rounds on

Saturdays and Sundays through September, except during theScottish/Irish Highland Festival weekend, when special routes andschedules will be used.

The Elkhorn Avenue route will be the same as in past years. The Stanley Hotel was added as a stop on the Big Thompson

Avenue route. Shuttles will begin each day, with routes leaving from the Estes

Park Visitors Center at 10 a.m. The last Brown — Southwest“campground” — shuttle leaves the Visitors Center at 8 p.m., whilethe other two routes will depart the Visitors Center at 8:30 p.m.

Stops at the Estes Park Center-YMCA of the Rockies and MarysLake Lodge were added to the Brown route.

Based on low ridership last year, three stops along Highway 7were eliminated from the schedule.

The Town-sponsored shuttles remain connected to RockyMountain National Park’s express Hiker Shuttle that transports tothe Park & Ride lot on Bear Lake Road.

Want to scuttle?

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 63

Use the Shopper Shuttle

Photos by Walt Hester

Peggy LynchGRI, CRS, ABR, SRES,

QSC, CLHS, RRS

[email protected]

MOUNTAIN BROKERS1200 Graves Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517 (970) 586-5324 1-800-827-8780 (24 Hours)

Greg FalconerBroker

GRI, CRS

[email protected]

Estes Park Property StatisticsApril 2007 through April 2008

Average Sale Price for a Home in Estes Park is $387,603Average Sale Price for a Condo in Estes Park is $285,602

Average Sale Price for a Lot in Estes Park is $193,275Source: IRES (Information and Real Estate Services LLC)

Arthur vonBoennighausen

Broker

719-276-4304

GeorgeLeonard

Broker

[email protected]

Helene AultBroker

[email protected]

All Estes Park Listings on www.WeSellEstesPark.comContact Agents Direct Anytime 24/7

Nobody in the WorldSells More

Real Estate thanRE/MAX

20-1

7129

Bring This Couponto Rustic Mountain Charm and

Receive a Free 3-Day LodgingCertificate!

www.ytb.com/timefortrips Good for a limited time!

20-1

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Lodge HomeFurnishings

Accessories & Gifts135 E. Elkhorn Downtown

Estes Park, CO970-586-4344

Time for TripsTravel Store

In Partnership with

64 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

MacGregor Ranch: a living historyDating back to the late 1800s, MacGregor Ranch is the last remaining working

cattle ranch in Estes Park and one of the few sites of its kind in NorthernColorado. Staff, volunteers and the ranch hands keep MacGregor in pristine

working order.Alexander and Clara MacGregor founded the ranch in 1873. Donald (son ofAlexander and Clara) and Maude (Koontz) MacGregor lived and worked on

the ranch, improving it to its current prime. Their daughter, Muriel, wasborn on April 2, 1904 in Denver. Muriel worked and lived on the ranch

her entire life. When her parents died, she inherited the ranch, pre-serving the home and items included with care and detail. The

home now stands as the museum, depicting the colorful historyof the MacGregor family.

Summer visitors can explore the museum, thenature center, the gift shop and historic struc-

tures while taking in the view of this 2,000-acre working cattle ranch.

Photos by Walt Hester

Morning round-up starts early, and the new calves areroped and branded the old-fashioned way. Cattle drives andpasture rotation are done by horseback.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 65

Life on the ranchFrom the early homesteading times to modern day, MacGregor Ranch

has been home to an active cattle operation. During the early years, Donaldoften had as many as 200 head of cattle, selling 70 calves a year. Today, theyear-round herd numbers approximately 110 to 120 head, producing 40 to45 calves a year. Alexander first registered the XIX Brand in 1885. The his-toric XIX MacGregor brand is still used today at the annual branding dayin mid-May.

The ranch offers all-natural beef products as a source of income and sup-port for ranch operations. MacGregor Black Angus cattle are born andraised on the natural grass meadows of the ranch.

Youth programsMacGregor Ranch offers educational day camps and hands-on experi-

ences in the museum, historic buildings, on interpretive trails and at thescout/youth group camping area.

Chuckwagon DinnerThe MacGregor Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner, to preserve Western her-

itage and youth education programs at the ranch, takes place on June 21,from 3 to 7:30 p.m. Afternoon activities, including hay wagon rides, barnand museum tours, take place between 3 to 5 p.m. Reservations arerequired.

MacGregor Ranch is open to the public during the summer months ofJune, July and August, Tuesday through Saturday. For more information orto make reservations, call 586-3749 or e-mail [email protected].

Compiled by Janice Mason

Photos by Walt Hester

The annual branding takes place in May. Left, Adam Tallman crossesthe Big Thompson River.

Complete Selection of Traditional Mexican Dishesat Affordable Prices

Sizzling Fajitas our SpecialtyChildren’s Menu • Senior’s Menu • Full Bar Menu • Dine In or Carry Out

Relax on our Streamside Patio & Enjoy the Best Margaritas in Town220 E. Elkhorn Avenue • Phone 577-0799

Open 11 am - Serving Lunch & Dinner • Family Owned and Operated

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66 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

One of the most fascinating placesin Rocky Mountain NationalPark is the alpine tundra, also

known as “the land above the trees.”This harsh but poignantly beautiful areais accessed by Trail Ridge Road, takingvisitors to an altitude of 12,183 feet.

The alpine ecosystem begins at11,000 to 11,500 feet elevation. It isan area of extremes.

Plants and animals are uniquelyadapted to live on the tundra.

Frequent winds and cold tempera-tures limit what plants can grow there.Many plants are dwarfed, thus allow-ing them to escape the strong windsblowing above them.

This miniature world containsmany species of tiny plants and thinsoils. These plants survive extremecold, strong winds, intense ultra-violetradiation and very low humidity.They’re hardy but fragile underhuman impact. They cannot with-stand repeated trampling.

High altitude plants are fairly frag-ile. Most plant communities involvedare very slow growing and have shortgrowing seasons. Tundra plants have asix to 12 week growing season. It takes100 years for many alpine tundraplants to grow an inch.

The moss campion is one of thesmall plants that survives on the tun-dra. Research shows it is only one-halfinch in diameter when it’s five yearsold, Benton said. It doesn’t begin tobloom until it’s ten years old, andreaches a diameter of seven incheswhen it’s 25 years old.

Tundra plants have a low resistanceand a low recuperation rate. Somemay take five to 30 years or longer torecover from even small amounts ofuse or damage.

Disturbances, even small ones, cause fairlysignificant compaction of the very thin soilsfound in high altitude areas. Soil loss con-tributes to erosion and a loss of the plant base.

Scientists say these areas are very fragile,

much more fragile than people realize. Verysmall amounts of use or damage can cause per-manent damage and scarring.

The Park does not allow driving cars ontothe tundra but does allow people to walk on itexcept in three protected areas: the area aroundthe Alpine Visitor Center, Forest Canyon

Overlook and Rock Cut. The Parkwants to provide people the opportuni-ty to see the small world of the tundrawildflowers but repeated foot traffic onthe same plants will kill them.

Elk walk on the tundra withoutdamaging the plants. They weigh about800 pounds and use the tundra fortheir summer range. But they don’twalk in single file as people tend to do.They walk spread out. The Park asksvisitors to walk spread out, not in sin-gle file. Walking spread out preventsfootprints from being concentrated ina small area. Avoiding grinding heelsinto the plants. When possible rock-hop or walk on gravel rather thanwalking on vegetation.

It is also important to use only des-ignate pullouts along Trail Ridge Roadand not park along the side of the roadelsewhere. Some of the pullouts alongTrail Ridge Road were created becausevisitors consistently drove their carsonto the tundra. Those areas weredestroyed and the tiny plants they onceheld couldn’t grow back.

Animals who live on the tundra alsoface challenges, especially surviving inwinter.

They have three survival strategies,said Benton: hibernate, migrate andtolerate (stay put).

The yellow-bellied marmot andgolden-mantled ground squirrels areexamples of animals that hibernate.They live off of stored fat in their bod-ies for seven months of the year. It isespecially important not to feed theseanimals because if they receive thewrong kinds of fats they can die dur-ing hibernation, she said.

The pika is an animal that stays onthe tundra during the winter months.

They are often seen squeaking and carryingfood in their mouths. Pikas are not rodents.They are related to rabbits. But they have tinyears and tails instead because if they were big,

Off Trail in Alpine Zones is Off LimitsHardy Plants are Fragile and Damage Easily

Photos by Walt Hester

Tundra plants are hardy, yet damage easily when trampled byhumans, often taking years to recover.

970-586-3496 • Summer Hours 8 am - 9 pm • Open 7 days/week!

STANLEY VILLAGESHOPPING CENTER461 E. WONDERVIEW AVE.

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like they are on rabbits, theywould freeze in the winter.

In July pikas start cutting anddrying vegetation. They put itunder rocks and eat it all winterlong.

A bird that tolerates winters onthe tundra is the white-tailedptarmigan, a relative of the grouse.They are well-suited for the snowy,wintery life. They molt and theirmottled brown feathers change toa snowy white for camouflage.

They grow extra feathers ontheir feet that act like snowshoesas well as on their eyelids and nos-trils that provide extra protectionin the extreme cold temperatures.They burrow into the snow anduse it for insulation against thecold.

They eat willow buds and comeout fatter after winter.

Larger animals such as elk,mule deer, coyotes and mountainlions migrate to lower elevationsin the Park in winter. Many birdspecies do as well. These birds liketo hang out at the overlooks andbeg for food from visitors. Butfeeding them can endanger them.They need certain nutrients to beable to make their migratory flightand getting the wrong nutrientscan cause them harm.

Rocky Mountain National Parkrangers give daily tundra naturewalks all summer and the Park pro-

vides information on “tundra eti-quette.” For more information, call586-1206.

There are new exhibits at theAlpine Visitor’s Center this yearsuch as taxidermy, plant models and

a weather station where visitors cansee what the temperature and windspeed are outside.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 67

Photo by John Cordsen

Yellow-bellied marmots can be found on the tundra.

OO

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68 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Wonders, great and small

Photos by Walt Hester

May snow at Bear Lake

McHenrys Peak inBlack Lake

Longs Peak from the Boulder Field

Colorado Columbines

Fox Kits

Humming Bird

Pika in Glacier Gorge

Calendar submitted by Suzy Blackhurst, Convention and VisitorsBureau. For additional information, call (970) 577-9900, 1-800-44-ESTESor visit www.estesparkcvb.com.

June 2008June 1: Far and Near Horizons International Plein Air Painters and

Landscape Artist’s International exhibit opening and reception, 1 to 4 p.m.;includes work by 18 artists from Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic and theUnited States. Cultural Arts Council Fine Art Gallery, 423 W. ElkhornAvenue, 586-9203, www.estesarts.com.

June 1: 10th Summer Art Walk, a self-guided tour of the galleries andartist studios throughout the area. Tour maps are available at the CulturalArts Council at 423 W. Elkhorn Ave, visitors centers, and participatingartist studios. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 586-9203.

June 5: Estes Valley Historic Tour. Estes Park Historian Laureate JimPickering will lead a tour of historic sites in Estes Park and RockyMountain National Park. Advance reservations are required. Tickets avail-able at the Estes Park Museum, $5/members, $15/non-members, Estes ParkMuseum, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 586-6256.

June 7: Fishing Derby on Lake Estes. Registration at Lake Estes Marinabegins at 6:30 a.m. The derby is from 8 a.m. to noon, 1770 Big ThompsonAve., No fishing license required on Fishing Derby Day, 586-8191.

June 13: Diego Martin, el vaquero. Angel Vigil will discuss DiegoMartin, a true American cowboy who used el vaquero, the repository ofpractical and Spanish wisdom and experience in the ways of horses and cat-tle in his work. Estes Park Museum, 200 Fourth St., 7 p.m., 586-6256.

June 14: Takacs Quartet in concert; a special performance by one of theworld’s premiere string quartets. Sponsored by the Estes Park ChamberMusic Society, tickets are $25 at MacDonald Book Shop, 152 E. ElkhornAve., No charge for children through grade 12. Students/$10. CommunityChurch of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave., 2:30 p.m., 586-9203.

June 14-15: Wool Market, an annual fiber festival with two days ofexhibits, demonstrations, competitions and vendor booths. Free.Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 577-9900.

June 15: Estes Park Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K/5K Race, the high-est paved marathon course in the world. There is no race-day registrationfor the marathon or the half marathon. There will be race-day registrationfor the 10K and 5K races only. The marathon and half-marathon start at 7a.m.; 10K takes off at 8 a.m. and the 5K race starts at 9 a.m. from thegrounds of the Estes Park Middle School, 1500 Manford Ave.,www.epmarathon.org.

June 18-19: Rocky Mountain Miniature Horse Show. Fairgrounds atStanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave., Sponsored by the Rocky MountainMiniature Horse Club, 586-6104.

June 19-22: Quilt Colorado 2008 Exhibit from the Colorado QuiltingCouncil, Estes Park Conference Center, 201 S. St., Vrain Ave., www.quilt-colorado.com/index.html.

June 21: MacGregor Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner benefit to preserveWestern heritage and youth education programs at the 1860s historicranch. Activities from 3 to 5 p.m. include hay wagon rides, barn and muse-um tours. Chuckwagon supper from 5 to 7:30 p.m. followed by live enter-tainment, MacGregor Ranch, 180 MacGregor Ln. Reservations arerequired, 586-3749, www.macgregorranch.org.

June 21 – 22: Rocky Mountain Miniature Horse Show. Fairgrounds atStanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave., sponsored by the Rocky MountainMiniature Horse Club, 586-6104.

June 22: Forever Plaid Supporters for the Performing Arts benefit con-cert, Park Village Playhouse, 900 Moraine Ave., 7:30 p.m., 481-9142,www.estesparktheater.com.

June 23, 24: Juanita Heider and Jo Arnold performance in RiversideRhythms, a free musical entertainment series in Riverside Plaza on EastRiverside Drive just a half-block south of Elkhorn Ave., 3 p.m.

June 25: Marimba Band, Performance Park, 7 p.m., 577-9900.June 27: Nature’s Forms exhibit opening and reception. The show fea-

tures the highly imaginative photography of Del Hope and the lifelikebronze equine and other artful sculptures of Carol Cunningham. ArtCenter of Estes Park, 517 Big Thompson Ave., 5 to 7 p.m., 586-5882.

June 27-29: Saddlebred Horse Show. Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209Manford Ave., 9 a.m. Free.

June 27: Cool Night Cruz-In. Classic cars, 5 p.m. Estes Park VisitorsCenter parking lot, 500 Big Thompson Ave.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 69

See Calendar: page 70

Calendar of events

Courtesy photo

Takacs Quartet in concert June 14.

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June 28-29: Scandinavian Midsummer Festival, Bond Park, Saturday9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.estesmidsummer.com.

June 30: The Colorado Music Festival Orchestra, under the direction ofMichael Christie, performs. Adult tickets are $25 at the door. 7:30 p.m.Stanley Hotel Concert Hall, 333 W. Wonderview Ave, 586-9519.

July 2008July 2: Estes Park Jazz Big Band under the direction of Chuck Varilek,

Performance Park, 417 W. Elkhorn Ave, free, 7 p.m., 577-9900.July 3-5: Arabian Horse Show competition between horses known for

their intelligence, spirit, and stamina, Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209Manford Ave., 9 a.m. Free, 577-9900.

July 4: Holiday Pancake Breakfast benefit for Crossroads Ministry a non-profit organization assisting people in need. Our Lady of the MountainsCatholic Church, 920 Big Thompson Ave., 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

July 4: Coolest Car Show of vintage vehicles from the 1920s and beyond.Close-up inspections costs: $4 per adult, $2 for children, free for thoseunder 6, $10 for the whole family, or $2 for students. Bond Park in thecenter of downtown, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 586-6256.

July 4: Estes Park Village Band Patriotic Concert under the direction ofChuck Varilek, Performance Park, 577-9900.

July 4: Independence Day Fireworks over Lake Estes, 9:30 p.m.July 7: Colorado Music Festival Orchestra Patriotic Concert, a free pre-

sentation from the Estes Park Music Festival. Performance Park, 417 W.Elkhorn Ave., 7 p.m., 586-9519.

July 8-13: Rooftop Rodeo and Parade. The 2008 Rooftop Rodeo Paradeat 10:30 a.m., July 8, Elkhorn Avenue, downtown. Professional RodeoCowboy Association athletes compete during evening performances.Fairgrounds at Stanley Park. Nightly performances at 7:30 p.m., 577-9900.

July 11: Legends and Lore II exhibit opening and reception for worksfrom Estes Park’s artistic heritage. Includes a collection of rarely seen art,objects and photographs on loan. Cultural Arts Council Fine Art Gallery,423 W. Elkhorn Ave, 586-9203, www.estesarts.com.

July 12: O’Brien Family Bluegrass Concert, Supporters for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. at Performance Park, www.estesparktheater.com.July 16: Dulcimer Orchestra, Performance Park, 7 p.m., 577-9900.July 17 – 20: Dressage Equestrian Event featuring riders and horses per-

form technical routines. Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave., 9a.m. Free, 577-9900.

July 17: The Wigwam Teahouse Tour. Ken Jessen will lead a tour of the1913 teahouse used for passing travelers. Tour begins at 9 a.m. and ends atapproximately noon. Cost is $6 for members of the Estes Park MuseumFriends and Foundation and $8 for non-members. Transportation from theEstes Park Museum is included. Call 586-6256 for reservations beginningMay 1. Sponsored by the Estes Park Museum Friends and Foundation.

July 18 -20: Top Hands Classic Team Penning, a competitive event con-sisting of three team mates who cut out and drive three head of assignedcattle to the pen. The fastest team wins, Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209Manford Ave., 9 a.m. Free, 586-6104.

July 18: Meet Martha Maxwell: Pioneer Naturalist. Linda Batlin presentsthe story of Martha Maxwell’s love of animals and the natural world.Nicknamed the “Colorado Huntress” in the mid-nineteenth century, shewas Colorado’s first taxidermist and created displays now known as diora-mas. Estes Park Museum, 7 p.m., 586-6256.

July 19: A Cappella Men’s Quartet Recital. Christian music will be fea-tured during this benefit for the Supporters of the Performing Arts effortsto construct a performing arts theater in Estes Park. 7:30 p.m., HydeChapel, Estes Park Center-YMCA of the Rockies. Donations will be accept-ed, 481-6142.

July 19: The Incredible Circus Mat performs. Tickets: $5 per person or$15 for family. Performance Park, 7:30 p.m., www.estesparktheater.com.

July 21: Colorado Music Festival Orchestra Concert from the orchestrawhose home is the Boulder Chautauqua, sponsored by the Estes Park MusicFestival. Tickets are $25 at the door, 7:30 pm, Stanley Hotel Concert Hall,333 W. Wonderview Ave, 586-9519.

July 23-24: Half-Penny Horse Show for the Colorado Hunter JumperAssociation. Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave., 577-9900.www.chja.org.

July 23: Otones Brass Band, Performance Park, 7 p.m., 577-9900.July 25-26: Copper Penny Horse Show for the Colorado Hunter Jumper

Association. Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 577-9900, www.chja.org.July 25: Cool Night Cruz-In. Classics, muscle cars, hot rods, trucks, kit

cars -anything with an engine and four wheels on display. Listen to old-time

70 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

CalendarContinued from page 69

Photo by Walt Hester

Independence Day Fireworks over Lake Estes.

Come Every ThursdayJune 5 through September 25

At Our NEW Location1209 Manford AvenueStanley Fair GroundsOpen 8am - 12:30pm

You can buy:• Fresh vegetables & tomatoes

• Fresh bread & pastries

• Flowers, plants & herbs

• Cheese & honey

• And so much more!

YourFARMERS MARKET

IS HERE!

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NEW

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NEWLOCATION

radio and admire the steel. 5 p.m. Free. Estes Park Visitors Center parkinglot, 500 Big Thompson Ave, 577-9900.

July 27: All-Gershwin Concert by the Estes Park Oratorio Society andEstes Park Chamber Orchestra, a benefit for the Supporters of thePerforming Arts, www.estesparktheater.com. No admission fee, but a free-will offering will be accepted. Mountain View Bible Fellowship Church,Peak View and Hwy 7, 7:30 p.m., 586-9405.

July 28: Colorado Music Festival Orchestra Concert sponsored by theEstes Park Music Festival. Tickets are $25 at the door. 7:30 p.m. StanleyHotel Concert Hall, 333 W. Wonderview Ave, 586-9519.

Jul 30-Aug 3: Hunter Jumper Horse Show Festival I. Competitions rep-resent the hunter jumper disciplines. Fairgrounds at Stanley Park.

August 2008

Aug. 1–2: Relay for Life, an overnight, non-competitive, team event toraise funds and awareness to fight cancer combined with an event that hon-ors cancer survivors. Fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, from 6p.m. Friday night to 9 a.m. Saturday morning. Estes Park High SchoolFootball Stadium, 1600 Brodie Ave, 586-4350.

Aug. 2: Rocky Mountain National Park Pictorial History program andbook-signing reception. Author Ken Jessen will give a slide presentationbased on his new book. Sponsored by the Estes Park Museum Friends andFoundation and the Town of Estes Park. Estes Park Museum, 5 to 7 p.m.

Aug. 2-3: Ruckus in the Rockies-JRTCA Jack Russell Terrier Trials, avariety of sanctioned and non-sanctioned events. Free. 8 a.m. Stanley ParkBall Fields, 303-926-1251, www.rmjrtn.com.

Aug. 6-10: Hunter Jumper Horse Show Festival II competitions.Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave, 577-9900.

Aug. 6: Acoustic Roots Trio, Performance Park, 7 p.m.Aug. 8: Watercolor-Here and There, exhibit opening and reception fea-

turing an array of watercolors depicting images of flowers, landscapes andarchitecture by Pam England. Art Center of Estes Park, 517 Big ThompsonAve., 5 to 7 p.m., 586-5882.

Aug. 8: Prelude to Estes Park Plein Air 2008 exhibit opening and recep-tion featuring a sampling of work by artists represented by the Cultural ArtsCouncil Fine Art Gallery in Estes Park Plein Air 2008. Noon to 5 p.m.,586-9203. www.estesarts.com.

Aug 9: 7th Annual Estes Park Plein Air Painting the Parks. Artists fromacross the nation paint on-location. Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park,586-9203, 423 W. Elkhorn Avenue, www.estesarts.com.

Aug. 14: Boulder County Ghost Town Tour, a tour of the towns ofSalina, Wall Street, Sunset, Mont Alto Park and Gold Hill led by KeithJessen. The tour begins at 7:30 a.m. and is expected to continue untilapproximately 5:30 p.m. Call the museum at 586-6256 for reservationsafter June 1. Sponsored by the Estes Park Museum Friends and Foundation.

Aug. 15-17: Colorado Jr. Rodeo Association Finals, Fairgrounds atStanley Park, 9 a.m., 577-9900.

Aug. 16: Auto Extravaganza. The focus always is on a special model, butyou’re likely to find any number of vintage autos on display. Free. BondPark in the center of downtown, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 577-9900.

Aug. 20-22: Rocky Mountain Gay Days. For more information, visitwww.rockymountaingaydays.com.

Aug. 21: Estes Park Plein Air “Paint Our Town.” Plein Air artists paintscenes along the Riverwalk and throughout the downtown area. Eventsponsored by the Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.,586-9203.

Aug. 23: Estes Park Plein Air “Quick Draw” and Auction when artistspaint live models (or any subject they can see from the plaza) in 90 minutesin Riverside Plaza in downtown Estes Park. 8:30 to 11 a.m, 586-9203.

Aug. 23: Estes Park Plein Air Gala opening day festivities. Receptionsand award presentations. Noon, 586-9203, www.estesarts.com.

Aug. 23-24: Heritage Festival, a celebration of Estes Park’s history,includes storytelling, musical performances and exhibits. Bond Park in thecenter of downtown, 577-1903.

Aug. 29: Capt. Jepp and the Little Black Book. Authors Flint Whitlockand Terry Barnhart tell the story of Elrey Jeppesen who began flying in theRoaring ‘20s. Free. Estes Park Museum, 7 p.m., 586-6256.

Aug. 29: Cool Night Cruz-In. Classics, muscle cars, hot rods, trucks, kitcars – anything with an engine and four wheels – are on display. Listen toold-time radio and admire the steel. 5 p.m. Estes Park Visitors Center park-ing lot, 500 Big Thompson Ave, 577-9900.

Aug. 30-Sept. 1: Estes Park Alpaca Market featuring Alpaca spinning,weaving and knitting, with Alpacas on display and for sale. Fairgrounds atStanley Park, beginning at 9 a.m, 577-9900.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 71

See Calendar: page 74

Photo by Walt Hester

Heritage Festival, Aug. 23-24, features a petting zoo.

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72 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

Estes Park Dining, Food, Treats & BeveragesThe Baldpate InnFor the 91st year we welcome you to our historic lodge to experience foryourself our tradition of an unparalleled dining experience. As aspecialty restaurant, we invite you to enjoy our award-winning Soup &Salad buffet with homemade breads and pies. At 9,000 ft. on the sideof Twin Sisters mountain, our Sunporch Dining Room undeniably has thebest view in the area. Daily 11:30 am – 8 pm. Reservations alwaysrecommended. 4900 S. Hwy 7, Estes Park. 980/586-KEYS (5397)

Casa GrandeCasa Grande features a complete selection of traditional Mexicandishes at affordable prices. We serve dinner combinations, steakplatters, hamburgers and fries. Our specialties are sizzling fajitas withchoice of chicken, steak, shrimp or a combination. We have a children’smenu, senior menu and full bar menu. Relax on our streamside patio(Summer) and enjoy the best margaritas in town. Dine in our carry out.Open at 11 am, 220 E. Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park. 970/577-0799.

Coffee on the Rocks“Where the coffee is as great as the views!” Marvel at the beautifulmountain views as you enjoy our organic free-trade coffee, tea,smoothies and other cold drinks. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinnerwith baked goods from the famous Schmidt’s bakery, “lunches-to-go”,panini sandwiches, salads, soup du jour, smothered burritos and more!Free Wi-Fi! Indoor/Outdoor seating (Lakeside or on the deck). Featuringlocal artists. Meeting room in back. Large flat-screen TV. Plenty ofparking. Located on Hwy 36 on the way to RMNP, next to Red Rose RockShop & Dick’s Rock Museum. Open year-round. 510 Moraine Avenue.970/586-5181.

DeLeo’s Park Theatre Cafe & DeliWhether you’ve visited us in person before, heard about us by word ofmouth, or learned about us from The Food Network, we’re delighted tohave you here. You’re invited to stop in for some of the finest,mouthwatering Italian deli you’ve ever encountered. Sit inside with us oroutside along the Fall River (weather permitting), or take a feast to goand head into Rocky Mountain National Park, which is just up the road.You will find us at the entrance to the Historic Park Theatre, the oldestcontinuously operating movie theater west of the Mississippi, and just afew steps from the exact center of downtown Estes Park. If you have anevent happening in town, you can share great deli with your guests. Tryour full-service World Class Catering! 132 Moraine Avenue, Estes Park.970/577-2234

Donut HausProudly serving handmade donuts and other baked goods for over 30years. Come and enjoy an Estes Park tradition. We are locally owned andoperated. Open Daily 6 am to 1 pm. 342 Moraine Avenue, Estes Park.970/586-2988. www.donuthaus-estespark.com

Dunraven DowntownWe serve fresh, homemade Italian cuisine in the heart of downtownEstes. Dunraven Downtown has the feel of an open-air bistro with awarm, inviting dining room with hand-painted murals of the Italiancountryside. Whether you feel like an in-house cut sirloin steak, shrimpscampi, or pasta favorites such as our famous lasagna or chickenprimavera, we’ve got something you’ll love! We have an extensive winelist that compliments our menu. Save some room for our spumoni ortiramisu. There is a public parking lot conveniently located behind ourrestaurant. Dunraven Downtown is open for lunch every day at 11 am.We start serving dinner at 4 pm. 101 W. Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park.970/586-3818.

Dunraven Inn“The Rome of the Rockies.” Estes Park’s most romantic restaurantfeaturing Italian cuisine, great steaks and wonderful seafood. Dinnerserved nightly at 5 pm. 2470 Colo. Hwy. 66, Estes Park. 970/586-6409.

Estes Park BreweryCome for a free taste of our many beers. Open at 11:00 am daily. Wehave a wide variety of food along with pool tables, video games and TVs.Deck seating with views of Longs Peak. 470 Prospect Village Drive.970/586-5421.

Grandmaison’s Chalet Room at Marys Lake LodgeWe offer world-class cuisine in an elegant ambiance. Award-winningChef Marc Grandmaison has created an extraordinary menu offering aculinary tour of Europe, with specials from Lisbon, Barcelona, Milan,Munich, and Athens, as well as exquisite seafood, steaks, veal, lamb,and pasta, just to name a few. Vegetarian and vegan entrées are alsoextensive! Located just three miles from downtown Estes Park on Hwy 7.2625 Marys Lake Road. 970/586-5958.

The GrubsteakWe feature fantastic Burgers, Steaks, Buffalo Steaks and Elk Steaks. Wealso have Rocky Mountain Trout, Baby Back Pork Ribs, Buffalo Ribs,Pastas, Sandwiches and Salads. Home of the $3.99 Breakfast Special(two eggs, potatoes & toast.) Full breakfast menu in summer. Servinglunch and dinner year-round. Largest shaded patio, sunny pub room,and an Old West atmosphere. Take out available. Public parking lot inrear. 134 W. Elkhorn Avenue 970/586-8388.

Kind CoffeeKind Coffee is Estes Park’s exclusive organic coffee roaster, roastingdaily on the West End of town. We offer two full-service espresso barslocated on the East and West Ends of the River Walk featuring our freshroasted coffees. Fruit smoothies, milkshakes, and frozen drinks aremade to order! Fresh bagel sandwiches and breakfast items, lunchsandwiches to go, along with local baked goods and desserts round outour offerings. Pounds of fresh roasted coffee, t-shirts and mugs are greatsouvenirs and gift items! As a locally owned business and a member of1% for the Planet, Kind Coffee is committed to both our community andour environment. KIND is what coffee should be.

Leah’sLEAH’s (formerly Spirits of the Rocks) is now featuring espresso coffeedrinks and fine teas! We are located in “downtown” Glen Haven, justacross from the “Inn of Glen Haven.” Come for a drink and shop in ourfun gallery! We’re open daily 9 am to 6 pm. 970-586-3831,www.leahshop.com

Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & GrillAn Irish Pub. The best in live music and entertainment. Greatatmosphere, fun, food, and drink. Serving Appetizers, Burgers,Wings, Reubens, Fish & Chips, and other great tavern fare. Happy hourfood & drink specials. Downtown at 110 West Elkhorn. 970-586-4346.www.lonigans.com.

Longz—A Mountain GrillLongz Family Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner daily withFriday & Saturday dinner buffets and breakfast buffets on the weekends(every day in the summer). Longz Mountain Grill offers extendedColorado Regional Cuisine after 5 pm, and Longz Lounge has dailyhappy hour specials & an extensive martini menu. Located in RockyMountain Park Holiday Inn, 101 S. St. Vrain. 970/586-2332.

Mama Rose’s Homemade ItalianTaste. Traditional Italian food at its best, in a casually elegantatmosphere. Enjoy great wine, or relaxing beer in the dining room orseasonal riverside patio. A varied children’s menu is available for thelittle ones. Open daily at 4 pm for dinner. 338 E. Elkhorn Ave. (BarlowPlaza), Estes Park. 970/586-3330.

Poppy’s Pizza & GrillImagine. Create. Eat. Soup, salad, sandwiches and pizza created as youwant! Fun, casual dining area or seasonal riverside patio. Menus areavailable for kids 12 and under. Open daily at 11 am. 342 E. ElkhornAvenue (Barlow Plaza), Estes Park. 970/586-8282.

Pura VidaCosta Rican Cuisine. Salads, Soups, Seafood, Steaks, CombinationPlates. Plus a childrens’ menu and an American menu. 160 1st St.,970/586-3686.

Schmidt’s Bakery & DelicatessenQuality and Fresh Coffee Cakes, Signature & Wedding Cakes, Tortes,Breads & Rolls, and Delicatessen. You can’t visit Estes without tryingSchmidt’s! Located in Country Market at 900 Moraine Avenue. Openevery day.

Sundeck RestaurantServing the best food under the sun for the last 60 years. Known for ourgrilled fresh trout, steaks, chili rellenos and other excellent dishes.Reservations recommended for dinner. Non-smoking dining room. Fullbar. Open mid-May to early October. Amex, Discover, Visa, MasterCard.915 Moraine Ave. (2 miles west of downtown, at the junction of Hwy. 36,Mary’s Lake Road and High Drive.) 970/586-9832.www.sundeckrestaurant.com

The Tavern at Marys Lake LodgeWe offer casual comfort and serve a hearty meal in a fun-filledatmosphere. The Tavern is the only establishment in the area to offer liveentertainment SEVEN NIGHTS A WEEK from May – October, and FIVENIGHTS A WEEK from November – April. Located just three miles fromdowntown Estes Park on Hwy 7. 2625 Marys Lake Road. 970/586-5958.

Trailhead Restaurant at Rocky Mountain Gateway(Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.) Relaxed diningnestled just outside the Park with spectacular views of mountainscenery. Visit us for either breakfast, lunch or dinner and enjoy eithertraditional menu favorites or our selections of wild game, Buffalo andElk. Enjoy a glass of wine or beer with your dinner whether seated in ourcozy dining room or at a table outside on the deck. Open daily 8:00 am– 9:00 pm seasonal. 3450 Fall River Road, Estes Park. 970/577-0043.

Twin Owls Steakhouse at the Black Canyon InnWe have a warm candlelight feel accompanied by culinary skill andimpeccable service that is unparalleled in the Estes Valley. We serve avariety of entrées from steaks and chops to pastas and seafood. 800MacGregor Avenue (Devil’s Gulch Road). 970/586-9344.

VegaCome join us on our huge rooftop patio in the heart of downtown withviews of Estes in every direction! If you prefer indoor dining you can sitin our bright, sunny dining room or relaxing full bar. Try a pitcher of oneof our eight beers on tap, wine, or a refreshing sangria. Enjoy Spanish-style tapas, pizza, salads, local fare such as trout and elk, and deliciousgrilled entrées. Vega opens every day at 11 am. See us on the rooftop atthe Courtyard Shops, 205 Virginia Drive, Estes Park. 970/586-9494.

The View Restaurant at The Historic CragsLodgeSurround yourself in the rustic charm of this Historic Lodge that hostsviews of the entire Estes Valley! The menu offers steak, fresh fish, pasta,and vegetarian entrées. Wine, beer, and cocktails are available toaccompany your meal. Call for reservations. 300 Riverside Drive, EstesPark. 970/586-6066

The Wild RoseFamily Friendly with a Taste of Europe. The Wild Rose Restaurant, theStaff and Chefs have always felt to please their guests and make themcomfortable. The Continental Cuisine with fresh Seafood. Hand-cutSteaks and homemade Sauces are a delight and rewarding for thepalate. We open at 11 am and serve all day Lunch or Dinner (until 10pm in the Summer Season). Please join us for a delightful meal andgreat selected Wines in our two Dining Rooms or enjoy the sunshine onthe Patio. If you have special needs, please let us know and we will tryour best to serve you. Old Church Shops, 157 W. Elkhorn Avenue, EstesPark. 970/586-2806.

Wine & CheeseCheese is a wine bar and restaurant in downtown Estes Park. We areopen 11 am to 9 pm every day (10 pm after Memorial Day) and featurebeautiful platters of imported and local meats and cheeses as well asover 20 wines by the glass or tasting flight. 330 & 332 E. ElkhornAvenue, Estes Park 80517. For reservations, please call 970/586-6611.

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 73

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74 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

September 2008Sept. 4-7: Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival

includes bagpiping, dancing, athletics, jousting and other com-petitions along with premier entertainment. Festival Grounds atStanley Park, U.S. Hwy. 36 and Community Drive, open from9 a.m. to 5 p.m., www.scotfest.com.

Sept. 6: Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival Parade,an hour-long parade down Elkhorn Avenue, downtown EstesPark, filled with the pomp and pageantry of the Scottish Festivalhighland bands, bagpipers and clans, 9:30 a.m.

Sept. 11-14: 3rd Annual Estes Park Film Festival showcasingnew independent feature films, documentaries and shorts fromaround the country. Park Theatre, 130 Moraine Ave, 231-2580,www.estesparkfilm.com.

Sept. 12-14: Top Hands Classic Team Penning Event. Thecompetitive event consists of three teammates who cut out anddrive their three head of assigned cattle to the pen. The fastestteam wins. Fairgrounds at Stanley Park, 1209 Manford Ave., 9a.m, 586-6104.

Sept. 13: Cheley Camp Tour from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Reservations necessary and will be accepted at the Estes ParkMuseum beginning Aug. 1. Inquire at the Estes Park Museum,586-6256.

Sept. 13-14: Autumn Art Walk and Studio Tour of galleriesand artist studios throughout the area. Tour directories are avail-able at the Cultural Arts Council at 423 W. Elkhorn Ave, visi-tors centers and participating artist studios, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.,586-9203.

Sept. 13-14: Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, sponsored by theFine Arts Guild of the Rockies, featuring juried work in wear-able art, sculpture, photography, jewelry, folk art, glass, wood,leather, metal, ceramics, oil, pencil drawings and watercolorpaintings. Bond Park, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Photo by Walt Hester

The Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival takes place from Sept. 4 to 7at the Fairgrounds at Stanley Park.

CalendarContinued from page 71

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2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 75

Sept. 19: Lines Into Shapes, exhibit opening and reception for the ArtCenter’s annual nationally juried exhibit and sale. All mediums are repre-sented, with approximately 180 works of art. Art Center of Estes Park, 517Big Thompson Ave., 5 to 7 p.m., 586-5882, www.artcenterofestes.com.

Sept. 20-21: Autumn Gold - A Festival of Bands, Brats ‘n Beer. BondPark in the center of downtown Estes Park, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 577-9900.

Sept. 20: Running of the Bulls, a 3.75-mile run/walk around Lake Estesto benefit Partners Mentoring Youth. Pre-registration fees are $20 per per-son and $15 per person on a team. Add $5 per person for race day registra-tion. The run/walk starts and ends at the Lake Estes Marina 1770 BigThompson Ave., Run/walk begins at 10 a.m, 577-9348. Register atwww.active.com.

Sept. 20-28: 13th Annual Colorado Yoga Journal Conference. More than100 classes, all levels and styles taught by notables. Day passes are availablefor Friday and Saturday. A Yoga Marketplace featuring yoga products fromall around the world; jewelry to clothes to mats and props, DVDs, booksand more, is open free to the public. Estes Park Center-YMCA of theRockies, 800-561-9398, www.yogajournal.com.

Sept. 24-26: Rocky Mountain National Park Historic Lodges andHomesteads Tour of lodges and homesteads from the past in RockyMountain National Park. Tour begins at the Fall River Inn site, with visitsto the Horseshoe Inn, the Hupp graves and homestead, and Sprague’sResort in Moraine Park, $8 for members, $10 for non-members. Ticketsavailable at the Estes Park Museum beginning Aug. 1. Estes Park Museum,586-6256.

Sept. 27-28: 3rd Annual Estes Park Studio Tour, annual art tour visitingartists in their private studios. Experience the art process in the artist’s habi-tat. Sponsored by the Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park, 423 W. ElkhornAvenue, 586-9203, www.estesarts.com.

Sept. 29-30: Rocky Mountain Beagle Club Specialty Dog Show. Eventswill include obedience, agility, rally, and conformation judging. Vendorswill have dog-related items for sale and the event is open to the generalpublic. Only dogs participating in the show will be allowed on the showgrounds. Estes Park Conference Center, 201 S. St., Vrain Ave., 9 a.m. to 5p.m., 303-280-2216, www.nbcspecialtyshow.com.

Photo by Walt Hester

Rodney Yee teaching a class at the 2007 Colorado Yoga JournalConference in Estes Park.

See Calendar: page 76

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October 2008Oct. 1-31: Elktober the month when area elk provide daily sights and

sounds while in their peak mating season, Rocky Mountain National Park,577-9900.

Oct. 1-3: National Beagle Club of America Specialty Dog Show featur-ing competitions in obedience, agility, rally, and conformation judging.Vendors will have dog-related items for sale, and the event is open to thegeneral public. Only dogs participating in the show will be allowed on theshow grounds. Estes Park Conference Center. 201 S. St. Vrain Ave., 9 a.m.to 5 p.m.. 303-280-2216, www.nbcspecialtyshow.com.

Oct. 3: The Playground Trail: To and Through the National Parks of theWest, a slide-illustrated program by authors Lee and Jane Whiteley basedon their book, “The Playground Trail.” Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the 7p.m. program. Sponsored by the Estes Park Museum Friends andFoundation, Estes Park Museum, 200 Fourth St., 586-6256.

Oct. 4-5: Elk Fest, a celebration of all things Wapiti, the American elkthat calls Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park its home. Activitiesinclude seminars, bugling contests, elk tours, a Mountain Man encamp-ment, Native American music and dancing, and edible products from elk.Bond Park in the center of downtown Estes Park. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, 577-9900, estesparkcvb.com/events.

Oct. 10: Enchanting Wearable Art exhibit opening and reception withwhimsical, wire wrap/bead and fossil jewelry by Alice League and the color-ful creations of life-long fiber and knitwear artist Janice Kay. Art Center ofEstes Park, 517 Big Thompson Ave., 5 to 7 p.m., 586-5882.

Oct. 10-11, 17-18, 24-25: Scary Wagon Rides at Aspen Lodge, 6120Hwy. 7. Ghosts, goblins and a headless horseman thrill riders with theirantics. A wagon is pulled by Belgian draft horses. Call for times and fees at586-8133.

Oct. 11-12: Surprise Sidewalk Sale where the surprise is what you’ll find.Merchants set up tables on the sidewalks and offer special pricing on manyitems indoors as well. Downtown Estes Park. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 17: Collecting Art from Estes Park: The Howard and Sue Houston

Collection exhibit opening and reception (5 to 7 p.m.). The exhibitexplores some of Estes Park’s top rated artists in all media, with examplesfrom the Houston Private Collection. Estes Park Museum, 200 Fourth St.,Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 1 to 5 pm, 586-6256.www.estesnet.com/museum.

November 2008Nov 2: Rocky Mountain Romance Bridal and Fashion Show sponsored

by The Estes Park Wedding Association. The show includes vendor booths,a fashion show and groom-to-be lounge. Estes Park Conference Center, 201S. St. Vrain Ave., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 586-6151.

Nov. 7-9, 14-25: “Bye Bye Birdie,” 1960 Tony award theater productionby the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies. Hempel Auditorium at YMCA ofthe Rockies. Curtain Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinee at 3p.m. $14 Adults; $8 ages 18 and under for tickets purchased at the door,586-9203.

Nov. 21: Nature’s Tranquility exhibit opening and reception featuringMel Wilson’s wildlife and nature photography of Rocky Mountain NationalPark and photographs of many other locations throughout America. ArtCenter of Estes Park, 517 Big Thompson Ave., 5 to 7 p.m., 586-5882.

Nov. 28: Catch the Glow celebration and evening parade kicks off theholiday season. Visits with Santa, hayrides, pony rides, carolers, costumedcharacters and an early-evening lighted parade. All activities are free.Downtown Estes Park. Activities begin at noon; the parade starts at 5:30p.m., 577-9900.

Nov. 28: Holiday Art Walk, a self-guided tour of the galleries and artiststudios throughout the area. Tour maps are available at the Cultural ArtsCouncil at 423 W. Elkhorn Ave., Visitors Centers and participating artiststudios. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 586-9203, wwwestesarts.com.

Nov. 29: Holiday House Christmas Bazaar, an annual bazaar filled withhomemade baked goods and crafts, clothing, holiday gifts, raffles, a silentauction with donated items from downtown merchants and more.Admission is $1 at the door. Estes Park Conference Center, 201 S. St. VrainAve., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 586-7205.

December 2008Dec. 6: Holiday Home Tour, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. From quaint to luxurious

and full log homes to condos, the annual tour of homes in the Estes Parkarea showcases unique mountain abodes decked out in holiday finery.Tickets: $12 in advance; $15 on the day of the tour. Tickets and maps areavailable at the Estes Park Visitors Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave., 577-9900.

Dec. 6-7, 13-14, 20-21: Sleigh Bells Ring Christmas Tradition Weekend.Holiday Tree Sales and Horse Drawn Sleigh/Wagon Rides. Reservationsrequired. Aspen Lodge Ranch Resort, 6120 Hwy 7, 586-8133, www.aspen-lodge.net.

Dec. 12: A Celtic Christmas II. The Muses entertain with old songs per-formed as part of a Celtic repertoire. Location to be determined. 7 p.m.,call 586-9203 for ticket information. Sponsored by the Cultural ArtsCouncil of Estes Park, 586-9203, wwwestesarts.com.

Dec.13: Estes Park Music Festival Fantasy Ball, 586-9519, www.estes-parkmusicfestival.com.

76 — 2008 Trail Vacation Edition

CalendarContinued from page 75

Photo by Walt Hester

The Catch the Glow celebration and evening parade kicks off theholiday season in Estes Park on Nov. 28.

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Photo by Walt Hester

Hikers photograph the scenery at Dream Lake in May, just as high country lakes are beginning to shed their ice.

Time to hit the trail

By Mike Oatley

There are two ways to see Rocky Mountain National Park: the comfort-able way (through the windshield), or the hard way — on foot. In style andcomfort, or by sweating for solitude, your call.

Okay, the Park is a little more accommodating than that. Not every out-ing has to be a test of endurance or turn into a death march.

But it does seem as if hundreds of thousands of visitors to RockyMountain National Park come to the Park and never get out of sight oftheir cars. The result is that, in truth, finding a little peace and quiet in oneof our most heavily visited national parks is a lot easier than the annual visi-tor count would lead you to believe. And the farther you are willing towalk, more of that solitude you can find. You’ll know you’ve been some-place special when you are back at the trailhead feeling like you don’t haveanother 100 feet in you.

All in all, the Park strings together more then 350 miles of trails andboasts numerous backcountry campsites. That’s in addition to 585 camp-sites in five drive-in campgrounds at one end of the comfort meter(Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, Moraine Park, Longs Peak, and Timber Creek,with group camping sites at Glacier Basin) and designated off-trail travelareas at the other.

Excellent commercial maps of the Park are available, and useful not only

in figuring out where to go but also in identifying features of the landscapearound you. The primary jumping-off points for day hikes, includingascents of Longs Peak during the short non-technical season on the FrontRange’s preeminent 14er, on the east side of the Park include the WildBasin ranger’s station, the Longs Peak campground area, Bear Lake,Horseshoe Park.

Day hikers need to be as aware of the threats the mountains can pose asbackcountry travelers need to be. But for all of the questions about bearsand mountain lions, it’s the weather that poses the greatest threat to anyonetraveling in the mountains. In the late summer, you can almost set yourwatch by the lightning-riven thunderstorms that crop up off theContinental Divide and push eastward.

Of course, getting off exposed ridges by early afternoon to avoid light-ning is a very good idea, but just as important is planning to stay dry whenthe rain comes. Afternoon thunderstorms, sometimes bearing hail, can sendtemperatures plummeting. Cold and wet is a bad combination when youfind yourself three miles from the trailhead. A rain jacket is as important assunscreen and a sturdy pair of hiking boots when heading out for a day onthe trail.

As is drinking water. Hikers should assume all surface water is contami-nated with one nasty critter or another, and either carry sufficient water or

You know you’ve been somewhere when your dogs start to bark

2008 Trail Vacation Edition — 79

carry a suitable filter. Dehydration headaches ruin plenty of otherwise finedays in the Park for many people each summer.

Backcountry travelers who will stay overnight need to acquire a permitfrom the backcountry office at the Park’s Estes Park headquarters or theKawuneeche Visitor Center at the Park’s western entrance, and reservationsat backcountry campsites can be made as early as March 1 each year.

HorsebackThere are places a person just can’t reasonably go on foot in a single day,

and another way to see the high country is on horseback. Estes Park has anumber of outfitters that lead trail rides into the Park.

Traveling on horseback in the mountains is a fantastic way to travel, andwith your eyes lifted three or four feet higher off the ground, the landscapearound you opens up in surprising ways, revealing distant ridges that mightgo unnoticed.

But keep in mind that if you have never ridden before, you’re likely toget out of the saddle at the end of the day as beat up as if you had coveredthe same ground on foot.

Photo by Walt Hester

A camper on Longs Peak gets his morning sustenance before head-ing for the summit.

Doug Bailard GRIBroker Associate

Cell 970-231-5878

[email protected]

Lois Bailard GRIBroker AssociateCell [email protected]

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Index to AdvertisersAerial Tramway .............................................................................61Alpine Accents...............................................................................47American Wilderness Tours..........................................................12Aspen Brook Vacation Homes ......................................................18Bella Creations..............................................................................71Big O Tires...........................................................Inside Back CoverBig Thompson Indian Village.......................................................35Black Mountain Traders ...............................................................23Bob’s Towing & Repair .................................................................30Boulder Valley Credit Union.........................................................69Brownfields Trading Post ...............................................................5Canyonlands Indian Arts ..............................................................79Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant ................................................65Coldwell Banker/Estes Village Properties .......Outside Back CoverCowpoke Corner Corral................................................................35DeLeo’s Deli ....................................................................................8Donut Haus...................................................................................36Doug & Lois Bailard/Prudential...................................................79Eagle Plume’s ..........................................................39, 40, 41 & 42Estes Park Good Samaritan Village .............................................67Estes Park Laundracenters...........................................................57Estes Park Medical Center............................................................59Estes Park Mountain Shop...........................................................20Estes Park Rent All .......................................................................22Estes Park Trail-Gazette ..............................................................77Family Medical Clinic...................................................................76Farmers Market ............................................................................70Fine Arts Guild................................................................................6Food Listings ................................................................................73Fun City ........................................................................................10Glassworks ....................................................................................19Gwynne’s Greenhouse ..................................................................49Insurance Associates.....................................................................74Jackson Stables .............................................................................58Jay Harroff/Prudential ..................................................................52John Denver Tribute Concert/Lions Club......................................8Kind Coffee......................................................................................6Leah’s.............................................................................................24Lithium ...........................................................................................7Longs Peak Summit Club ............................................................53Lonigans Saloon, Nightclub and Grill .........................................56Macdonald Bookshop......................................................................3Mary’s Lake Lodge ........................................................................21Med X ............................................................................................75Misty Mountain Lodge..................................................................45Mountain Paradise Real Estate ....................................................46National Park Players ...................................................................31National Park Village ....................................................................17Old Church Shops ........................................................................51Omnibus........................................................................................75Outdoor World/RMC.....................................................................34Photos by Sandi ............................................................................11Plum Creek Shoes/Merrell Footwear................Inside Front CoverPrudential Rocky Mountain Realtors...........................................13Rambo’s Longhorn Liquor Mart ..................................................11Range Property Management.......................................................12Re/Max Mountain Brokers ................................................63Red Rose Rock Shop.....................................................................10Rocky Mountain Gateway.............................................................23Rocky Mountain Health Club.......................................................47Rocky Mountain Lifestyle Realty..................................................33Rocky Mountain Nature Association..............................................9Rocky Ridge Music Center ...........................................................34Rustic Mountain Charm...............................................................63Schmidt’s Bakery ............................................................................3Serendipity ....................................................................................22Snowy Peaks Winery.....................................................................55T.W. Beck Architechture ...............................................................25The White Lion .............................................................................46Tiny Town Shell ............................................................................74Tom Adams/Prudential .................................................................27True Value .....................................................................................66Twisted Pine ..................................................................................26Village Goldsmith ...........................................................................4Wine & Cheese..............................................................................15Wool Basket ..................................................................................48YMCA of the Rockies ....................................................................36

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SERVICE CENTER

The Tire Guys HaveDiscounted Tire Prices

We Do Brakes Plus:Wheel Alignment • Shocks/Struts

Battery Service • Radiator Service

Rack & Pinion • Axles • Suspension

Alternators • Starters

Transmission Service

Headlights • Belts/Hoses

20-1

6639

WITH VALLEY PRICING!

FREEBrakeCheck

FULL

SERVICE

LUBE

EXPRESS

STORE HOURSSummer (May-Dec)

8 - 5 pm Mon-FriSat 8-5

Winter (Christmas-April)Mon-Fri 8-5; Sat 8-noon

All New Big O Brand Tires Include:

1. Mounting

2. Lifetime Balance

3. Lifetime Pro-Rated Warranty

WE SERVICEMOSTRVs

ESTES PARK

There’s almost always a way. Whether it’s buying a retirement home now andrenting it to generate income until you’re ready to move in, or finding the perfectretreat to move into right away, we’re experts at helping you explore every option.

Stop by or give us a call and let us help you find your perfect get-away, too.

“Thanks to you, we were able to accomplish our long-time dream of havinga get-away in beautiful Estes Park. We highly recommend Coldwell BankerEstes Village Properties. You skillfully took care of all the details and madeit a very enjoyable process.”

J. & B. Wall—Estes Park, CO and Colorado Springs, CO

“I can tell you without hesitation that moving to Estes Park and workingwith Coldwell Banker Estes Village Properties are two of the best thingsthat have happened to us. We were always treated like friends, rather thanjust clients.”

C. & C. Hillerson, Estes Park, CO

“They helped us find exactly the home we wanted for retirement. Their serviceis anchored in professionalism and integrity, with a genuine friendliness thatcontinues after the transaction.”

D. & J. Britton—Estes Park, CO

“When I was transferred to Estes as an employee of the National Park,they told us to talk with Coldwell Banker Estes Village Properties. Nowwe know why. They were excellent. No question, we’ll recommend them toour friends.”

T. & N. Greer—Estes Park, CO

320 East Elkhorn P.O. Box 4130, Estes Park, CO 80517 www.estesparkrealestate.com

970-586-4425Denver Metro: (303)442-2762 /1-800-726-1405

Janice HarriganAdministrative

Assistant

ESTES VILLAGEPROPERTIES, LTD.

Where the Estes Valley has been coming for real estate solutions since 1985.

How To MakeYourVacation Permanent.

Each office is independently owned and operated. ©2008 CBEVP

Vicky HollerBroker, CRS,

GRI

Scott ThompsonBroker Assoc.

Randy GoodBroker Assoc.

Wayne NewsomBroker Assoc.,

CRS, GRI

Marcia DuellBroker Assoc.,

GRI

Dave KiserBroker Assoc.

Mary MurphyBroker Assoc.

GRI


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