Ned Overend and Mitch Moreman crest Molas Pass
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Carter, Kingsley soar to victory in Iron Horse road race
Carter, Kingsley soar to victory in Iron Horse road race
By Marc Witkes
This report filed May 29, 2005
Michael Carter and Karen Kingsley won the 34th annual Iron Horse Bicycle Classic road race on Saturday, a Colorado monument with 5500 feet of climbing over its 47-mile course between Durango and Silverton.
The 42-year-old Carter (Colorado Velo) emerged triumphant from a three-man battle with Mitch Moreman and the apparently immortal Ned Overend, who were racing for the new Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory team.
As Carter assaulted the 10,660-foot Coal Bank Hill, Moreman and Overend struggled to hold the pace. Carter reached the summit first, shot down the wicked descent, climbed alone up 10,900-foot Molas Pass and roared down into Silverton and victory in two hours, 18 minutes and six seconds.
"This win has been a long time coming," said the Littleton, Colorado, resident, who started racing here in 1983.
The 25-year-old Moreman - who was 10 years old when he watched his Durango neighbor Overend win the world mountain bike championship at Purgatory in 1991 - edged his 48-year-old teammate for the runner-up spot.
"It's awesome to be here today," Moreman said. "It's always been a dream of mine to race bikes, and it is just so cool to be able to come in the finish near Ned."
Overend, who has raced the Iron Horse 24 times and won it more than once, said he knew he was in for a rough ride when Carter punched it on Coal Bank.
"I just didn't have it today while going up Coal Bank," Overend said. "I knew I was in trouble."
Still, Overend clearly enjoyed himself.
"I really enjoy racing bikes and it's such a great sport," Overend said. "It's just part of my lifestyle. But it is such a serious commitment to get in shape for this thing each year."
Women sprint into Silverton
In the women's race, Kingsley, Shonny Vanlandingham (Luna) and Ann Trombley (Excel Sports), reached the summit of Molas Pass together, but Vanlandingham was first to the south end of Silverton.
Then Kingsley - who was trailing by 150 yards at the bottom of the winding descent - put the hammer down and beat Vanlandingham in an exciting sprint, crossing in 2:40:30. Trombley crossed third, 23 seconds later.
"I knew she (Kingsley) was closing on me at the finish," said Vanlandingham, a pro mountain biker who planned to race in Monday's cross-country. "She's so strong."
The 30-year-old Kingsley, from Ophir, Colorado, once raced with Geneviève Jeanson's now-defunct RONA squad, but now spends her days building furniture.
"I'm a climber," Kingsley said. "I used to race for RONA, but now I don't train much. I just do a lot of backcountry skiing in the winter, and that is such a good workout. I just race for the fun of it now."
Iron Horse Bicycle Classic
Durango-Silverton, CO. May 28
Men
1. Michael Carter, Colorado Velo, 2:18:06.8
2. Mitch Moreman, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 2:18:25.0
3. Ned Overend, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 2:18:25.6
4. Cody Peterson, 3D Racing-SRAM, 2:18:52.6
5. Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski, 2:18:53.6
1. Karen Kingsley, 2:40:30.7
2. Shonny Vanlandingham, Luna, 2:40:31.0
3. Ann Trombley, Excel Sports, 2:40:53
4. Jennifer Smith, Tokyo Joe's-Golite, 2:42:25.2
5. Mara Abbott, Whitman College, 2:43:35.3
Complete race results can be found at www.ironhorsebicycleclassic.com.
By Marc Witkes
This report filed May 29, 2005
Michael Carter and Karen Kingsley won the 34th annual Iron Horse Bicycle Classic road race on Saturday, a Colorado monument with 5500 feet of climbing over its 47-mile course between Durango and Silverton.
The 42-year-old Carter (Colorado Velo) emerged triumphant from a three-man battle with Mitch Moreman and the apparently immortal Ned Overend, who were racing for the new Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory team.
As Carter assaulted the 10,660-foot Coal Bank Hill, Moreman and Overend struggled to hold the pace. Carter reached the summit first, shot down the wicked descent, climbed alone up 10,900-foot Molas Pass and roared down into Silverton and victory in two hours, 18 minutes and six seconds.
"This win has been a long time coming," said the Littleton, Colorado, resident, who started racing here in 1983.
The 25-year-old Moreman - who was 10 years old when he watched his Durango neighbor Overend win the world mountain bike championship at Purgatory in 1991 - edged his 48-year-old teammate for the runner-up spot.
"It's awesome to be here today," Moreman said. "It's always been a dream of mine to race bikes, and it is just so cool to be able to come in the finish near Ned."
Overend, who has raced the Iron Horse 24 times and won it more than once, said he knew he was in for a rough ride when Carter punched it on Coal Bank.
"I just didn't have it today while going up Coal Bank," Overend said. "I knew I was in trouble."
Still, Overend clearly enjoyed himself.
"I really enjoy racing bikes and it's such a great sport," Overend said. "It's just part of my lifestyle. But it is such a serious commitment to get in shape for this thing each year."
Women sprint into Silverton
In the women's race, Kingsley, Shonny Vanlandingham (Luna) and Ann Trombley (Excel Sports), reached the summit of Molas Pass together, but Vanlandingham was first to the south end of Silverton.
Then Kingsley - who was trailing by 150 yards at the bottom of the winding descent - put the hammer down and beat Vanlandingham in an exciting sprint, crossing in 2:40:30. Trombley crossed third, 23 seconds later.
"I knew she (Kingsley) was closing on me at the finish," said Vanlandingham, a pro mountain biker who planned to race in Monday's cross-country. "She's so strong."
The 30-year-old Kingsley, from Ophir, Colorado, once raced with Geneviève Jeanson's now-defunct RONA squad, but now spends her days building furniture.
"I'm a climber," Kingsley said. "I used to race for RONA, but now I don't train much. I just do a lot of backcountry skiing in the winter, and that is such a good workout. I just race for the fun of it now."
Iron Horse Bicycle Classic
Durango-Silverton, CO. May 28
Men
1. Michael Carter, Colorado Velo, 2:18:06.8
2. Mitch Moreman, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 2:18:25.0
3. Ned Overend, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 2:18:25.6
4. Cody Peterson, 3D Racing-SRAM, 2:18:52.6
5. Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski, 2:18:53.6
1. Karen Kingsley, 2:40:30.7
2. Shonny Vanlandingham, Luna, 2:40:31.0
3. Ann Trombley, Excel Sports, 2:40:53
4. Jennifer Smith, Tokyo Joe's-Golite, 2:42:25.2
5. Mara Abbott, Whitman College, 2:43:35.3
Complete race results can be found at www.ironhorsebicycleclassic.com.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
McGrath looks for next athletic challenge
Kristin McGrath, former Durango High School soccer and swimming standout, has a mantra.
"Go big or go home."
McGrath, 22, used those words throughout four years of athletic success at DHS from 1998-2001.
With a Southwestern League title in soccer during her freshman year and a fifth-place finish at the state swimming meet in the 100-meter breast stroke during her junior year, it would appear that McGrath was on the right track.
Besides her obvious athletic prowess, McGrath was also busy during her senior year in 2001 taking classes at Pueblo Community College so she could get a head start on her studies at the University of Tennessee.
After playing Division I soccer for four years at Tennessee and swimming her junior and senior years, McGrath, an exercise science major, is ready for more challenges and adventure.
Following last week's graduation with summa cum laude honors, McGrath is preparing for an internship with the prestigious Carmichael Training System in Colorado Springs.
"It's an intensive program and they teach you how to become a coach," said McGrath.
Besides working with Carmichael Training this summer, McGrath is hoping to begin a quest to become a professional triathlete.
So, while she will be learning how to coach others, McGrath will also be coaching herself with a heavy dose of swimming, biking and running.
It won't be an easy road. McGrath dislocated her knee during a soccer practice last October.
"I tore my ACL, partially tore my PCL and tore my LCL," McGrath explained. "I'm only able to run every other day right now because I'm still recovering from my injury."
Current DHS men's varsity basketball coach and McGrath's former soccer coach, Tim Fitzpatrick, is betting that McGrath will go far in whatever she chooses for her future.
"Kristin's desire to be the best in whatever she is doing and her work ethic is incredible," Fitzpatrick said. "Even as a high school freshman, she had a great understanding of fitness and the necessary training."
George Philpot, DHS swim coach for 10 years, has known Kristin since she was a girl.
"She's a tenacious young lady," Philpot said. "Kristin is very dedicated and if anybody can become a professional triathlete, she can."
All work and no play might make Jill a dull girl but McGrath has had her share of fun as well.
Last month she went with friends to watch the Tour of Georgia.
"We had an awesome time," McGrath said. "I saw Lance Armstrong and Tom Danielson."
Besides doing a little spectating, McGrath has done her share of cycling in the Smoky Mountains near school.
"Well, there's this 50-mile ride that we do sometimes," McGrath explained.
The climbs and the mountains in Tennessee don't really compare to Coal Bank and Molas, but hopefully they will be enough preparation for the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic in two weeks.
It will be easy to spot McGrath, who will be in town to ride to Silverton and visit with her parents Bob and Scattie: She'll be riding a lime green Cannondale.
"Of course her mother and I are quite proud of her," Bob said.
"She doesn't like anybody in front of her but in a nice way."
Marc Witkes is president of Durango Motorless Transit. Reach him at 247-3116.
"Go big or go home."
McGrath, 22, used those words throughout four years of athletic success at DHS from 1998-2001.
With a Southwestern League title in soccer during her freshman year and a fifth-place finish at the state swimming meet in the 100-meter breast stroke during her junior year, it would appear that McGrath was on the right track.
Besides her obvious athletic prowess, McGrath was also busy during her senior year in 2001 taking classes at Pueblo Community College so she could get a head start on her studies at the University of Tennessee.
After playing Division I soccer for four years at Tennessee and swimming her junior and senior years, McGrath, an exercise science major, is ready for more challenges and adventure.
Following last week's graduation with summa cum laude honors, McGrath is preparing for an internship with the prestigious Carmichael Training System in Colorado Springs.
"It's an intensive program and they teach you how to become a coach," said McGrath.
Besides working with Carmichael Training this summer, McGrath is hoping to begin a quest to become a professional triathlete.
So, while she will be learning how to coach others, McGrath will also be coaching herself with a heavy dose of swimming, biking and running.
It won't be an easy road. McGrath dislocated her knee during a soccer practice last October.
"I tore my ACL, partially tore my PCL and tore my LCL," McGrath explained. "I'm only able to run every other day right now because I'm still recovering from my injury."
Current DHS men's varsity basketball coach and McGrath's former soccer coach, Tim Fitzpatrick, is betting that McGrath will go far in whatever she chooses for her future.
"Kristin's desire to be the best in whatever she is doing and her work ethic is incredible," Fitzpatrick said. "Even as a high school freshman, she had a great understanding of fitness and the necessary training."
George Philpot, DHS swim coach for 10 years, has known Kristin since she was a girl.
"She's a tenacious young lady," Philpot said. "Kristin is very dedicated and if anybody can become a professional triathlete, she can."
All work and no play might make Jill a dull girl but McGrath has had her share of fun as well.
Last month she went with friends to watch the Tour of Georgia.
"We had an awesome time," McGrath said. "I saw Lance Armstrong and Tom Danielson."
Besides doing a little spectating, McGrath has done her share of cycling in the Smoky Mountains near school.
"Well, there's this 50-mile ride that we do sometimes," McGrath explained.
The climbs and the mountains in Tennessee don't really compare to Coal Bank and Molas, but hopefully they will be enough preparation for the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic in two weeks.
It will be easy to spot McGrath, who will be in town to ride to Silverton and visit with her parents Bob and Scattie: She'll be riding a lime green Cannondale.
"Of course her mother and I are quite proud of her," Bob said.
"She doesn't like anybody in front of her but in a nice way."
Marc Witkes is president of Durango Motorless Transit. Reach him at 247-3116.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Trailrunning the Four Corners
From Sand Canyon to Squaw Peak, Kaibab to Kokapelli, Alien Run to Animas City Mountain, the Four Corners is doodled with trails that inspire runners to leave hot, hard asphalt for the cool and softness of terra firma. Trailrunners are challenged to find a better area to enjoy their fast-growing sport. Indeed, trail running has never been more popular. According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturing Association, trail running participation has grown by 16.4 percent over the past five years. In 2003 alone, more than six million people ages 6 and over ran on trails at least once. That’s a lot of shoe rubber.
In 13 years of running and traveling the Four Corners for races and training runs, I am convinced that trail running just doesn’t get any better than our backyard. With topography ranging from desert to mountain and geography from tundra to slickrock, living in the Four Corners means that we are never far from a perfect trail run.
PLACES TO RUN
PINNING DOWN THE BEST trails to run in the Four Corners is an impossible exercise. The countless miles of trails are as diverse as the people who run on them. With diversity in mind, here is a sampling of a good few, most of which I’ve had the pleasure of running.
COLORADO
CONDITIONING TIPS
"Start out slow and taper" is the ultra-runner’s signature line but the same can be applied to trail running. If you’ve run only on the roads, running trails will take a little getting used to. Pay attention to the terrain so you won’t trip over obstacles such as a rock or a root. "Power-hike," or hike powerfully rather than run, the steep uphill sections. Cross-train with a road or mountain bicycle to build strong quads, which are essential for running uphill. Pay attention to your form by eliminating any extra movement with your arms. Relax! Go a little farther or a little faster each time you hit the trails. Set a reasonable goal for yourself so that you’ll stay motivated to train. How about completing a Double Hogsback or a sub-four hour Imogene by the end of the summer?
To gain strength and power, run fast but short — 1/4- to 1/2-mile — uphill legs, resting during jogs downhill, and repeat. On a track, include interval sprint-and-jog sessions. Warm-up and cool-down to decrease injury risk. — M.W.
The Durango Mountain Park is less than a mile west of downtown Durango. The rolling trails include the dramatic Hogsback, which is obvious from its name. Even the fittest runner’s legs will be reduced to Jell-O climbing the Hog. Be careful on the way down, especially in the summer, when the trail is dry, dusty and slippery. There are many access points but my favorite is on the western edge of Avenida del Sol, just north of the 9th Avenue Bridge.
Joe Keck, former mayor of Cortez, frequents Sand Canyon, 14 miles southwest of Cortez on McElmo Creek Road. "The area has pinion, juniper and red rocks along its trails," he says, noting the area is all BLM.
It is possible to run 468 miles of the Colorado Trail from Durango but several shorter options are available. Take 25th Street to Junction Street to access the trail’s Durango terminus. A good eight-mile run with spectacular views of Durango is out-and-back to Gudy’s Rest, a good push out but a downhill coast on the return. Other good Colorado Trail access points include Lightener Creek, Kennebec Pass and Molas Pass.
NEW MEXICO
My wife Cathy Tibbetts has been running Farmington gems Pi`F1ion Mesa and the Kinsey Trail for 20 years. "With Pi`F1ion Mesa, you can run a 12-mile loop or an 18-miler but it might be a good idea to go with someone who is familiar with the area. It’s easy to lose your way in this maze but the rock formations are dramatic. I’ve named two of them, ‘Ugly’ and ‘Nasty,’ because of the steep terrain that reduces most runners to a quad-busting power hike."
The Kinsey trailhead, part of the Glade Trail System, is located at the north end of Foothills Drive. "I can run this one all year as it’s almost always dry," she says.
UTAH
Ian Torrence, a Grand Slam finisher (four 100-mile trail races in the same summer) shares his favorite Moab trail runs. "Gemini Bridges starts on 191 north of Moab and it’s about a 16-mile run, out and back ... It is 4 x 4 roads rather than trails, but a beautiful area."
Other Torrence favorites are Steel Bender/Flat Pass, Behind-the-Rocks, Pritchett Arch, Hunter Canyon Loop and unnamed trails near the golf course.
Durango trail runners John McAward and Brett Gosney make frequent trips to the Joint Trail in Canyonlands National Park. "The terrain is varied," McAward said. "There are streams, sand, ladders, rocks and meadows."
"The Joint Trail is a narrow seam that is part of a larger 22-mile loop," adds Gosney. "The trails are well-marked and you can get a map from the National Park Service."
ARIZONA
In Prescott, Charlie Schultzof the Arizona Road Racers likes the Peavine Trail and Groom Creek Loop Trail, a short distance from town. "The Peavine Trail was opened in early 1999," Schultz said. "It is a trail that has been developed over the old Peavine Railroad right-of-way that is historically significant to Prescott and the surrounding areas `85 On a clear day you can see the San Francisco Peaks, the Santa Maria Mountains, south into the Bradshaws and across to the Mazatzals and Pine Mountain from Groom Creek."
Flagstaff’s Matthew Holton, a member and coach with the Northern Arizona Trailrunners Association, shares a favorite run. "My favorite run is up to Fisher Point where there is a lookout that is probably 6 miles south of downtown Flagstaff." Fisher Point overlooks a dramatic slot canyon in one direction and the San Francisco Peaks in the other. "I also like running on top of Mars Hill," Holton adds, "where the Lowell Observatory is located."
There is only one way to properly see the Grand Canyon. Yes, run it. Take the park service shuttle from the main lodge to the Kaibab trailhead on the South Rim and run down to the Colorado River and back up the Bright Angel Trail for a total of 14 miles. It’s a steep pull back up but nothing a little "power hiking" can’t manage. In "younger" days I reveled in going from the South Rim to the North Rim and back in one day, all in about 14 hours. Now I prefer to run from the South Rim with a change of clothes and stay in the Grand Canyon Lodge North rim — and run back the next day.
RACES
THE FOLLOWING RACES range in size from under 50 runners to several hundred. They also offer a variety of distances, places and terrain, from ultramarathons (more than 26.2 miles) to short distances. You may recognize some of the races but I hope that there are some that are new to you.
ARIZONA
The Soulstice Mountain Run (June 18) in Flagstaff was first held in 1997, organized by local race director Bill Ring. Only 34 runners ran the challenging 11 1/2-mile course that includes two 800-feet-plus ascents, but in 2003 and 2004, the race reached its cap of 200.
Neil Weintraub, a veteran of more than 100 races, claims the Soulstice as his favorite. "There are incredible views of the San Francisco Peaks during the second half of the race," he explains, "and the golden aspens mixed with the tall ponderosas add to the beauty." www.natra.org.
The Big Tesuque (October 8), an 11.6-mile trail run, draws about 100 runners to Santa Fe. "It’s in the fall, just between the aspens at the height of their color and the start of snow," said Santa Fe Striders running club president, Kris Kern. "We’ve had snow a few times, but the last few years the colors have been brilliant. We donate part of the race proceeds to Wing of America, a Native American youth running program. www.santafestriders.org
The Arizona White Mountain Marathon, Half and 5K fun run and walk (August 27) takes place on the TRACKS trail system within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Show Lo. In 2002, when the massive forest fires hit the forests near Show Lo, participation was a disaster. But last year, the event came back strong with around 60 runners. www.rndrunning.com.
In 2004, nearly 350 people participated in the Sacred Mountain 10K/5K Prayer Run (June 5) and 2K fun run/walk near Flagstaff. Dorothy Gishie, program coordinator for Native Americans for Community Action, Inc., and one of the race coordinators, expects 500 runners for this year. "The course weaves through unpaved dirt and cinder trails within the Coconino National Forest, Gishie said. " The San Francisco Peaks, mountains held sacred by Native Peoples, provide a scenic background. The course climbs to an elevation of 7,200 feet from a start/finish of 6,950 feet." www.nacainc.org
COLORADO
Ouray resident and former Hardrock 100 race winner, Rick Trujillo, trained on Imogene Pass in 1974, and the next year, the Imogene Pass Run (Sept. 10) became an official race. Today, 1,200 walkers and runners make the trek from Ouray to Telluride through historic Tomboy and Camp Bird. www.imogenerun.com.
The Lake City 50-Mile (June 18), now in its 11th running, is among the toughest events in the United States. "There is over 12,500-feet of climb and descent all above 8,600’ and lots of it above timberline," said Race Director Jerry Gray. "The course is a counter-clockwise loop starting in the town park on Engineer Pass Road, over Alpine Gulch, into Williams Creek, up Wagner Gulch and into the Carson town site.
Vic Rudolph, Durango speedster, ran Lake City last year. "It was the hardest race I have done so far," Rudolph said. "It was a fabulous event; beautiful country, great support and weather. I would recommend it to anyone." www.lakecity50.com.
The Spring Desert Ultra three-day running festival in Fruita (April 22-24,) has 50-, 25-, 10- and 5-mile events. The courses are rocky, dry, and challenging but the scenery is otherworldly. Reid Delman, festival organizer, says that people are often taken by surprise with the race’s difficulty. "The elevation ranges from only 4,600 to 5,400 feet but there is actually 4,000-feet of climb for each 25-mile loop," he said.
My friend, Greg, poked fun at me last year and called me "grandma!" as I picked through the difficult terrain. I had the last laugh when he became dehydrated during the last few miles of the race and I skipped by him on the flat section. www.geminiadventures.com.
NEW MEXICO
La Luz Trail Run (Aug. 7), featured in the March/April 2005 issue, is Albuquerque’s premier running event. This annual event is limited to 400 runners. The race may be filled this year but be prepared for next year by tapping www.aroadrun.org.
UTAH
Moab’s Alpine to Slickrock 50-mile (September 24) is set in the La Sal Mountains and, according to one of its veteran racers, Ian Torrence, has an "awesome single track." This race begins with a 4,000-foot climb from Pack Creek. www.mas50.com.
RUNNING CLUBS
ALL RUNNING CLUBS, like their runners, go through peaks and valleys. Farmington and Cortez, for example, have both had strong running clubs but neither exist today. If you have an interest in joining a running club or finding out about the clubs in your area, drop by your local sporting goods store and ask around or hit the internet and search. Or, better yet, go running and sooner or later you’ll encounter other runners. It’s that easy — for the most part trail runners are easy-going folks.
COLORADO
Durango Motorless Transit (DMT) is the Four Corners largest running club. DMT sponsors low-key group trail runs every Thursday night at 6 p.m. DMT also organizes many area trail races. See www.go-dmt.org or call me at (970) 247-3116. I am its president.
"The Crested Butte Mountain Runners have been around for about 25 years and we organize a series of fun runs throughout the summer, starting in mid-May and ending in late September," said Martin Catmur, who organizes the Runners.www.visitcrestedbutte.com/mtnrunners/
ARIZONA
Flagstaff is home to the Northern Arizona Trailrunners. NATRA has two weekly runs, one on Monday and another on Saturday. The Monday run is a 4.5-mile loop that starts from Buffalo Park and heads up toward Elden. The run on Saturday varies. www.natra.org.
NEW MEXICO
Albuquerque Road Runners (ARR), part of the Road Runners Clubs of America, does a weekly trail run in the foothills on Monday evenings starting from the parking lot at the east end of Indian School Road. "There is an extensive network of trails along the base of the Sandia Mountains that runs from I-40 north for about 10 miles or more," said Roxanne Miler, ARR president. "These trails also connect to the crest trail and trails on the east side of the mountains so that you can do a relatively tame workout with small hills or you can go for a 3,000 foot climb." www.aroadrun.org
"The Santa Fe Striders have weekly group training runs that are usually on trails," said president Kris Kern. "This is such a great place for that and the higher trails can get to several peaks above 12,000-feet in as little as six miles of running.
UTAH
The Rimrock Roadrunners, part of the Road Runners Clubs of America, is a small organization in Moab which puts on the Moab Half-Marathon, Winter Sun 10K and other races. www.moabhalfmarathon.org.
Marc Witkes grew up running with the Central Massachussetts Striders. He has competed in hundreds of events around the country and claims a win of the Ignacio Cabin Fever Fest in the early ’90s. Having just completed the Arizona Ironman, Witkes is hoping for a little down time but he fears that his wife will convince him to pace her for 50 miles during the Leadville Trail 100-mile.
In 13 years of running and traveling the Four Corners for races and training runs, I am convinced that trail running just doesn’t get any better than our backyard. With topography ranging from desert to mountain and geography from tundra to slickrock, living in the Four Corners means that we are never far from a perfect trail run.
PLACES TO RUN
PINNING DOWN THE BEST trails to run in the Four Corners is an impossible exercise. The countless miles of trails are as diverse as the people who run on them. With diversity in mind, here is a sampling of a good few, most of which I’ve had the pleasure of running.
COLORADO
CONDITIONING TIPS
"Start out slow and taper" is the ultra-runner’s signature line but the same can be applied to trail running. If you’ve run only on the roads, running trails will take a little getting used to. Pay attention to the terrain so you won’t trip over obstacles such as a rock or a root. "Power-hike," or hike powerfully rather than run, the steep uphill sections. Cross-train with a road or mountain bicycle to build strong quads, which are essential for running uphill. Pay attention to your form by eliminating any extra movement with your arms. Relax! Go a little farther or a little faster each time you hit the trails. Set a reasonable goal for yourself so that you’ll stay motivated to train. How about completing a Double Hogsback or a sub-four hour Imogene by the end of the summer?
To gain strength and power, run fast but short — 1/4- to 1/2-mile — uphill legs, resting during jogs downhill, and repeat. On a track, include interval sprint-and-jog sessions. Warm-up and cool-down to decrease injury risk. — M.W.
The Durango Mountain Park is less than a mile west of downtown Durango. The rolling trails include the dramatic Hogsback, which is obvious from its name. Even the fittest runner’s legs will be reduced to Jell-O climbing the Hog. Be careful on the way down, especially in the summer, when the trail is dry, dusty and slippery. There are many access points but my favorite is on the western edge of Avenida del Sol, just north of the 9th Avenue Bridge.
Joe Keck, former mayor of Cortez, frequents Sand Canyon, 14 miles southwest of Cortez on McElmo Creek Road. "The area has pinion, juniper and red rocks along its trails," he says, noting the area is all BLM.
It is possible to run 468 miles of the Colorado Trail from Durango but several shorter options are available. Take 25th Street to Junction Street to access the trail’s Durango terminus. A good eight-mile run with spectacular views of Durango is out-and-back to Gudy’s Rest, a good push out but a downhill coast on the return. Other good Colorado Trail access points include Lightener Creek, Kennebec Pass and Molas Pass.
NEW MEXICO
My wife Cathy Tibbetts has been running Farmington gems Pi`F1ion Mesa and the Kinsey Trail for 20 years. "With Pi`F1ion Mesa, you can run a 12-mile loop or an 18-miler but it might be a good idea to go with someone who is familiar with the area. It’s easy to lose your way in this maze but the rock formations are dramatic. I’ve named two of them, ‘Ugly’ and ‘Nasty,’ because of the steep terrain that reduces most runners to a quad-busting power hike."
The Kinsey trailhead, part of the Glade Trail System, is located at the north end of Foothills Drive. "I can run this one all year as it’s almost always dry," she says.
UTAH
Ian Torrence, a Grand Slam finisher (four 100-mile trail races in the same summer) shares his favorite Moab trail runs. "Gemini Bridges starts on 191 north of Moab and it’s about a 16-mile run, out and back ... It is 4 x 4 roads rather than trails, but a beautiful area."
Other Torrence favorites are Steel Bender/Flat Pass, Behind-the-Rocks, Pritchett Arch, Hunter Canyon Loop and unnamed trails near the golf course.
Durango trail runners John McAward and Brett Gosney make frequent trips to the Joint Trail in Canyonlands National Park. "The terrain is varied," McAward said. "There are streams, sand, ladders, rocks and meadows."
"The Joint Trail is a narrow seam that is part of a larger 22-mile loop," adds Gosney. "The trails are well-marked and you can get a map from the National Park Service."
ARIZONA
In Prescott, Charlie Schultzof the Arizona Road Racers likes the Peavine Trail and Groom Creek Loop Trail, a short distance from town. "The Peavine Trail was opened in early 1999," Schultz said. "It is a trail that has been developed over the old Peavine Railroad right-of-way that is historically significant to Prescott and the surrounding areas `85 On a clear day you can see the San Francisco Peaks, the Santa Maria Mountains, south into the Bradshaws and across to the Mazatzals and Pine Mountain from Groom Creek."
Flagstaff’s Matthew Holton, a member and coach with the Northern Arizona Trailrunners Association, shares a favorite run. "My favorite run is up to Fisher Point where there is a lookout that is probably 6 miles south of downtown Flagstaff." Fisher Point overlooks a dramatic slot canyon in one direction and the San Francisco Peaks in the other. "I also like running on top of Mars Hill," Holton adds, "where the Lowell Observatory is located."
There is only one way to properly see the Grand Canyon. Yes, run it. Take the park service shuttle from the main lodge to the Kaibab trailhead on the South Rim and run down to the Colorado River and back up the Bright Angel Trail for a total of 14 miles. It’s a steep pull back up but nothing a little "power hiking" can’t manage. In "younger" days I reveled in going from the South Rim to the North Rim and back in one day, all in about 14 hours. Now I prefer to run from the South Rim with a change of clothes and stay in the Grand Canyon Lodge North rim — and run back the next day.
RACES
THE FOLLOWING RACES range in size from under 50 runners to several hundred. They also offer a variety of distances, places and terrain, from ultramarathons (more than 26.2 miles) to short distances. You may recognize some of the races but I hope that there are some that are new to you.
ARIZONA
The Soulstice Mountain Run (June 18) in Flagstaff was first held in 1997, organized by local race director Bill Ring. Only 34 runners ran the challenging 11 1/2-mile course that includes two 800-feet-plus ascents, but in 2003 and 2004, the race reached its cap of 200.
Neil Weintraub, a veteran of more than 100 races, claims the Soulstice as his favorite. "There are incredible views of the San Francisco Peaks during the second half of the race," he explains, "and the golden aspens mixed with the tall ponderosas add to the beauty." www.natra.org.
The Big Tesuque (October 8), an 11.6-mile trail run, draws about 100 runners to Santa Fe. "It’s in the fall, just between the aspens at the height of their color and the start of snow," said Santa Fe Striders running club president, Kris Kern. "We’ve had snow a few times, but the last few years the colors have been brilliant. We donate part of the race proceeds to Wing of America, a Native American youth running program. www.santafestriders.org
The Arizona White Mountain Marathon, Half and 5K fun run and walk (August 27) takes place on the TRACKS trail system within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Show Lo. In 2002, when the massive forest fires hit the forests near Show Lo, participation was a disaster. But last year, the event came back strong with around 60 runners. www.rndrunning.com.
In 2004, nearly 350 people participated in the Sacred Mountain 10K/5K Prayer Run (June 5) and 2K fun run/walk near Flagstaff. Dorothy Gishie, program coordinator for Native Americans for Community Action, Inc., and one of the race coordinators, expects 500 runners for this year. "The course weaves through unpaved dirt and cinder trails within the Coconino National Forest, Gishie said. " The San Francisco Peaks, mountains held sacred by Native Peoples, provide a scenic background. The course climbs to an elevation of 7,200 feet from a start/finish of 6,950 feet." www.nacainc.org
COLORADO
Ouray resident and former Hardrock 100 race winner, Rick Trujillo, trained on Imogene Pass in 1974, and the next year, the Imogene Pass Run (Sept. 10) became an official race. Today, 1,200 walkers and runners make the trek from Ouray to Telluride through historic Tomboy and Camp Bird. www.imogenerun.com.
The Lake City 50-Mile (June 18), now in its 11th running, is among the toughest events in the United States. "There is over 12,500-feet of climb and descent all above 8,600’ and lots of it above timberline," said Race Director Jerry Gray. "The course is a counter-clockwise loop starting in the town park on Engineer Pass Road, over Alpine Gulch, into Williams Creek, up Wagner Gulch and into the Carson town site.
Vic Rudolph, Durango speedster, ran Lake City last year. "It was the hardest race I have done so far," Rudolph said. "It was a fabulous event; beautiful country, great support and weather. I would recommend it to anyone." www.lakecity50.com.
The Spring Desert Ultra three-day running festival in Fruita (April 22-24,) has 50-, 25-, 10- and 5-mile events. The courses are rocky, dry, and challenging but the scenery is otherworldly. Reid Delman, festival organizer, says that people are often taken by surprise with the race’s difficulty. "The elevation ranges from only 4,600 to 5,400 feet but there is actually 4,000-feet of climb for each 25-mile loop," he said.
My friend, Greg, poked fun at me last year and called me "grandma!" as I picked through the difficult terrain. I had the last laugh when he became dehydrated during the last few miles of the race and I skipped by him on the flat section. www.geminiadventures.com.
NEW MEXICO
La Luz Trail Run (Aug. 7), featured in the March/April 2005 issue, is Albuquerque’s premier running event. This annual event is limited to 400 runners. The race may be filled this year but be prepared for next year by tapping www.aroadrun.org.
UTAH
Moab’s Alpine to Slickrock 50-mile (September 24) is set in the La Sal Mountains and, according to one of its veteran racers, Ian Torrence, has an "awesome single track." This race begins with a 4,000-foot climb from Pack Creek. www.mas50.com.
RUNNING CLUBS
ALL RUNNING CLUBS, like their runners, go through peaks and valleys. Farmington and Cortez, for example, have both had strong running clubs but neither exist today. If you have an interest in joining a running club or finding out about the clubs in your area, drop by your local sporting goods store and ask around or hit the internet and search. Or, better yet, go running and sooner or later you’ll encounter other runners. It’s that easy — for the most part trail runners are easy-going folks.
COLORADO
Durango Motorless Transit (DMT) is the Four Corners largest running club. DMT sponsors low-key group trail runs every Thursday night at 6 p.m. DMT also organizes many area trail races. See www.go-dmt.org or call me at (970) 247-3116. I am its president.
"The Crested Butte Mountain Runners have been around for about 25 years and we organize a series of fun runs throughout the summer, starting in mid-May and ending in late September," said Martin Catmur, who organizes the Runners.www.visitcrestedbutte.com/mtnrunners/
ARIZONA
Flagstaff is home to the Northern Arizona Trailrunners. NATRA has two weekly runs, one on Monday and another on Saturday. The Monday run is a 4.5-mile loop that starts from Buffalo Park and heads up toward Elden. The run on Saturday varies. www.natra.org.
NEW MEXICO
Albuquerque Road Runners (ARR), part of the Road Runners Clubs of America, does a weekly trail run in the foothills on Monday evenings starting from the parking lot at the east end of Indian School Road. "There is an extensive network of trails along the base of the Sandia Mountains that runs from I-40 north for about 10 miles or more," said Roxanne Miler, ARR president. "These trails also connect to the crest trail and trails on the east side of the mountains so that you can do a relatively tame workout with small hills or you can go for a 3,000 foot climb." www.aroadrun.org
"The Santa Fe Striders have weekly group training runs that are usually on trails," said president Kris Kern. "This is such a great place for that and the higher trails can get to several peaks above 12,000-feet in as little as six miles of running.
UTAH
The Rimrock Roadrunners, part of the Road Runners Clubs of America, is a small organization in Moab which puts on the Moab Half-Marathon, Winter Sun 10K and other races. www.moabhalfmarathon.org.
Marc Witkes grew up running with the Central Massachussetts Striders. He has competed in hundreds of events around the country and claims a win of the Ignacio Cabin Fever Fest in the early ’90s. Having just completed the Arizona Ironman, Witkes is hoping for a little down time but he fears that his wife will convince him to pace her for 50 miles during the Leadville Trail 100-mile.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Local riders go for broke in time trials
It's the stuff that legends are made of:
Ned Overend, former world champion, once bicycled 9.5 miles from the corner of Roosa Avenue and U.S. Highway 160 to the power lines on top of Hesperus Hill in 28 minutes and 45 seconds.
Tom Danielson, recent Tour de Georgia winner, rode 5.8 miles from Cascade Village to the top of Coal Bank Pass in 24 minutes and 4 seconds.
These are two records from the Durango Wheel Club's Thursday night time trials, but most of the 19 people who competed in last week's Baker's Bridge event weren't concerned with trying to break any records.
Time trials are simple, painful, elegant exercise. Bicycle racers hammer on a predetermined course against the clock and against the other riders. Most are tucked in an aerodynamic position with the help of special handlebars from the start. Less upright body mass translates into less wind resistance and faster times.
There is no drafting (following closely behind another cyclist and using him to break the wind) here. Riders begin at 30-second intervals and race by themselves.
If the person riding behind you catches you, that puts you 30 seconds down. Racers are timed across a finish line, and allowances are made for all of the different starting times.
Jared Pitroski, a 22 year-old Fort Lewis College student who races on the collegiate team, milled around before last Thursday's time trial start just north of the Iron Horse on U.S. Highway 550. It was Pitroski's first time trial of the year, and he figured it would be good preparation for a summer of racing.
Around 5:45 p.m., Todd Beattie, ride organizer, called the racers together.
"Who wants to go first?" Beattie asked.
Linda Paris, 42, volunteered to be the sacrificial lamb chased by the hungry wolves.
"Five… four… three… two… one...," chanted timing volunteer and long-time Durango Wheel Club member Ken Freudenberg, and Paris was off for 17.5 miles of pain and fun.
Thursday's "P" shaped course took riders north of Durango on U.S. Highway 550, to County Road 250, across Baker's Bridge and south on East Animas Road to a finish on the west side of Trimble Lane near the railroad tracks.
Last year Cody Peterson set a blazing record of 37 minutes and 33 seconds on this course.
Todd Wells, 2004 mountain bike Olympian, has already raced 30 days this year. He was getting tuned up for World Cup races in Belgium and the summer's NORBA races.
With a swirling wind that made riders always feel like they were always battling a headwind, competitors continued to take off at 30-second intervals.
Wells took the penultimate position with Gilbert chasing from the final spot. Traditionally the faster riders are the last ones off.
I had it easy and drove with Beattie along the course. We offered encouragement and a little applause, although not many riders acknowledged our presence. This was serious stuff and most riders had a look of pain on their faces.
While riding behind Mitch Moreman on East Animas, Beattie clocked him at 36 mph.
"This is great training, and we have everyone here from casual riders to professionals," Beattie said. "It's good practice for racing because you have people chasing you and everybody is a little nervous."
For more information on the time trials, call Beattie at 946-1993 or go to www.durangowheelclub.com.
Ned Overend, former world champion, once bicycled 9.5 miles from the corner of Roosa Avenue and U.S. Highway 160 to the power lines on top of Hesperus Hill in 28 minutes and 45 seconds.
Tom Danielson, recent Tour de Georgia winner, rode 5.8 miles from Cascade Village to the top of Coal Bank Pass in 24 minutes and 4 seconds.
These are two records from the Durango Wheel Club's Thursday night time trials, but most of the 19 people who competed in last week's Baker's Bridge event weren't concerned with trying to break any records.
Time trials are simple, painful, elegant exercise. Bicycle racers hammer on a predetermined course against the clock and against the other riders. Most are tucked in an aerodynamic position with the help of special handlebars from the start. Less upright body mass translates into less wind resistance and faster times.
There is no drafting (following closely behind another cyclist and using him to break the wind) here. Riders begin at 30-second intervals and race by themselves.
If the person riding behind you catches you, that puts you 30 seconds down. Racers are timed across a finish line, and allowances are made for all of the different starting times.
Jared Pitroski, a 22 year-old Fort Lewis College student who races on the collegiate team, milled around before last Thursday's time trial start just north of the Iron Horse on U.S. Highway 550. It was Pitroski's first time trial of the year, and he figured it would be good preparation for a summer of racing.
Around 5:45 p.m., Todd Beattie, ride organizer, called the racers together.
"Who wants to go first?" Beattie asked.
Linda Paris, 42, volunteered to be the sacrificial lamb chased by the hungry wolves.
"Five… four… three… two… one...," chanted timing volunteer and long-time Durango Wheel Club member Ken Freudenberg, and Paris was off for 17.5 miles of pain and fun.
Thursday's "P" shaped course took riders north of Durango on U.S. Highway 550, to County Road 250, across Baker's Bridge and south on East Animas Road to a finish on the west side of Trimble Lane near the railroad tracks.
Last year Cody Peterson set a blazing record of 37 minutes and 33 seconds on this course.
Todd Wells, 2004 mountain bike Olympian, has already raced 30 days this year. He was getting tuned up for World Cup races in Belgium and the summer's NORBA races.
With a swirling wind that made riders always feel like they were always battling a headwind, competitors continued to take off at 30-second intervals.
Wells took the penultimate position with Gilbert chasing from the final spot. Traditionally the faster riders are the last ones off.
I had it easy and drove with Beattie along the course. We offered encouragement and a little applause, although not many riders acknowledged our presence. This was serious stuff and most riders had a look of pain on their faces.
While riding behind Mitch Moreman on East Animas, Beattie clocked him at 36 mph.
"This is great training, and we have everyone here from casual riders to professionals," Beattie said. "It's good practice for racing because you have people chasing you and everybody is a little nervous."
For more information on the time trials, call Beattie at 946-1993 or go to www.durangowheelclub.com.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Farmington athlete wins age group in inaugural Arizona Ironman
Farmington residents Cathy Tibbetts, 50, and Keith Peterson, 55, were among 1,682 finishers at the inaugural Ironman Arizona Triathlon in Tempe on Sunday.
Tibbetts finished the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and 26.2-mile run in 12 hours, 18 minutes, and 52 seconds, while earning a first-place age group finish and a slot in October's Hawaii Ironman. Peterson finished in 15:10.53. It was Tibbetts’ first Ironman and Peterson’s third.
Tibbetts, an optometrist, has been running for nearly 30 years but she only recently started focusing on swimming and biking. She rode her first bicycle century in Grand Junction in October and she started swimming with the Farmington Masters program in the fall.
“I never really gave much thought to doing an Ironman, but last summer when I heard that there was going to be one in Arizona, I just decided to go for it,” Tibbetts said. “It was challenging having to train indoors for so much of the Farmington winter, but I was able to go to Arizona a few times to get in some long rides.”
Peterson, a sales manager at Webb Chevrolet, went into Saturday's race with few expectations.
“I just want to have fun,” Peterson said. “I want to have a good race and I want to be able to converse with people on the run.”
Peterson's wife, Debbie, and their daughter, Bree Ann, accompanied him to the race.
“We also visited my other daughter, who lives in Phoenix, and made it a nice family weekend,” Peterson said. “The race venue was set-up with multiple loops, it was spectator-friendly and I got to see everyone several times.”
Tibbetts set three different alarms in her hotel room the night before the race. With months of preparation behind her, she was taking no chances. While Tibbetts made it to the swim start with plenty of time to spare, she still had her share of difficulties.
“It was a mass start and I got kicked and pushed around quite a bit,” Tibbetts said. “I was glad to get out of the Tempe Town Lake and onto dry land for the bike section.”
Peterson, who is not a strong swimmer, was also pleased to finish that section, but his real challenges began when he hopped on his bicycle.
“I made a cardinal sin because I tried something new on race day,” Peterson divulged. “I heard that all of the pros were using salt tablets so I tried that, but my stomach became upset and I couldn't get any food down.”
While Peterson struggled with his upset stomach during the bike section, Tibbetts found the gusting wind to be problematic.
“I was in my smallest gear, pedaling furiously and all I could manage was 12 miles per hour for sections of the course,” Tibbetts explained.
Peterson's stomach settled down before he got off the bike, but when he drank some chicken soup during the run section, his problems started all over again.
Tibbetts, who is sponsored by Montrail and KIVA, made up quite a bit of time on the run and passed several people, including a few that were in her age group.
“Everyone was marked with a race number on her thigh and arm and age on her left ankle,” Tibbetts said.
But with a loop course and athletes moving in different directions, Tibbetts was surprised when she discovered that she had finished first in her 50-54 age bracket.
“I had no idea, but I'm excited to go to Hawaii Ironman,” Tibbetts said. “Now I guess I’ll have to keep up with the biking and swimming.”
Hawaii entries are coveted among aspiring triahtletes and are only given to the top men and women in each age bracket. Potential Hawaii athletes can also enter a lottery for a race slot.
Peterson entered the lottery and raced in 1992. He has been applying for another lottery spot since so he can go back to Hawaii, but so far his number hasn’t come up.
Debbie and Bree Ann were proud of Keith and his race finish.
“When I was leaving Farmington High School last week to watch the Ironman race, someone said, ‘I wish my dad did cool stuff like that,’” Bree Ann said.
Bree Ann plays softball and volleyball and is inspired by her father.
“Sometimes I know I just need to leave him alone when he’s downstairs working out on his bicycle wind-trainer at home,” Bree Ann said.
Both Tibbetts and Peterson were impressed with the race organization.
“There were volunteers everywhere to help out,” Tibbetts said. “The gave you food and water, they cheered everyone on and they even helped take off competitors’ wetsuits when we got out of the cold water,” Tibbetts said.
“With a race like this, you need good support,” Peterson said. “The race is long and people can get into trouble if they don’t have enough to eat and drink.”
With a nice year-round climate, many running trails and a first-class swimming facility, Farmington residents have potential to make an even stronger showing at next year’s Ironman Arizona event.
“It's just a matter of training,” Peterson said. “I tell people to ‘Just do it.’”
Tibbetts finished the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and 26.2-mile run in 12 hours, 18 minutes, and 52 seconds, while earning a first-place age group finish and a slot in October's Hawaii Ironman. Peterson finished in 15:10.53. It was Tibbetts’ first Ironman and Peterson’s third.
Tibbetts, an optometrist, has been running for nearly 30 years but she only recently started focusing on swimming and biking. She rode her first bicycle century in Grand Junction in October and she started swimming with the Farmington Masters program in the fall.
“I never really gave much thought to doing an Ironman, but last summer when I heard that there was going to be one in Arizona, I just decided to go for it,” Tibbetts said. “It was challenging having to train indoors for so much of the Farmington winter, but I was able to go to Arizona a few times to get in some long rides.”
Peterson, a sales manager at Webb Chevrolet, went into Saturday's race with few expectations.
“I just want to have fun,” Peterson said. “I want to have a good race and I want to be able to converse with people on the run.”
Peterson's wife, Debbie, and their daughter, Bree Ann, accompanied him to the race.
“We also visited my other daughter, who lives in Phoenix, and made it a nice family weekend,” Peterson said. “The race venue was set-up with multiple loops, it was spectator-friendly and I got to see everyone several times.”
Tibbetts set three different alarms in her hotel room the night before the race. With months of preparation behind her, she was taking no chances. While Tibbetts made it to the swim start with plenty of time to spare, she still had her share of difficulties.
“It was a mass start and I got kicked and pushed around quite a bit,” Tibbetts said. “I was glad to get out of the Tempe Town Lake and onto dry land for the bike section.”
Peterson, who is not a strong swimmer, was also pleased to finish that section, but his real challenges began when he hopped on his bicycle.
“I made a cardinal sin because I tried something new on race day,” Peterson divulged. “I heard that all of the pros were using salt tablets so I tried that, but my stomach became upset and I couldn't get any food down.”
While Peterson struggled with his upset stomach during the bike section, Tibbetts found the gusting wind to be problematic.
“I was in my smallest gear, pedaling furiously and all I could manage was 12 miles per hour for sections of the course,” Tibbetts explained.
Peterson's stomach settled down before he got off the bike, but when he drank some chicken soup during the run section, his problems started all over again.
Tibbetts, who is sponsored by Montrail and KIVA, made up quite a bit of time on the run and passed several people, including a few that were in her age group.
“Everyone was marked with a race number on her thigh and arm and age on her left ankle,” Tibbetts said.
But with a loop course and athletes moving in different directions, Tibbetts was surprised when she discovered that she had finished first in her 50-54 age bracket.
“I had no idea, but I'm excited to go to Hawaii Ironman,” Tibbetts said. “Now I guess I’ll have to keep up with the biking and swimming.”
Hawaii entries are coveted among aspiring triahtletes and are only given to the top men and women in each age bracket. Potential Hawaii athletes can also enter a lottery for a race slot.
Peterson entered the lottery and raced in 1992. He has been applying for another lottery spot since so he can go back to Hawaii, but so far his number hasn’t come up.
Debbie and Bree Ann were proud of Keith and his race finish.
“When I was leaving Farmington High School last week to watch the Ironman race, someone said, ‘I wish my dad did cool stuff like that,’” Bree Ann said.
Bree Ann plays softball and volleyball and is inspired by her father.
“Sometimes I know I just need to leave him alone when he’s downstairs working out on his bicycle wind-trainer at home,” Bree Ann said.
Both Tibbetts and Peterson were impressed with the race organization.
“There were volunteers everywhere to help out,” Tibbetts said. “The gave you food and water, they cheered everyone on and they even helped take off competitors’ wetsuits when we got out of the cold water,” Tibbetts said.
“With a race like this, you need good support,” Peterson said. “The race is long and people can get into trouble if they don’t have enough to eat and drink.”
With a nice year-round climate, many running trails and a first-class swimming facility, Farmington residents have potential to make an even stronger showing at next year’s Ironman Arizona event.
“It's just a matter of training,” Peterson said. “I tell people to ‘Just do it.’”
Sunday, April 17, 2005
Journey to see Red Sox play worth the effort
I've always been a Red Sox fan, but following last year's improbable comeback - after being down three games to nothing against the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series - and a subsequent World Series victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, I became rabid.
As soon as the 2005 schedules were announced, I conspired, schemed and made plans to see my beloved Sox.
"The Sox are playing the Diamondbacks in Arizona for a couple of special games during spring training," I announced to my wife last December, while both seeking her approval and her desire to accompany me.
"Go ahead and have fun," Cathy said. "But I'm not going down there with you."
I dislike driving and haven't owned a car for 15 years. I usually ride my bike, run and walk everywhere. I thought about biking to Phoenix, but even I have my limits.
I bought tickets the first day they went on sale in January, and I scored great seats behind home plate and on the third base line. With high gas prices, I decided to ride Greyhound (20 hours each way) for $99 round-trip. I then booked a room at the Hampton Inn in midtown Phoenix, just three miles from Bank One Ballpark.
I left on the 9:30 a.m. southbound bus from Durango on a Wednesday morning and arrived in Phoenix at 2:30 a.m. on Thursday. Greyhound takes the long way around with many stops and holdovers in Albuquerque and Flagstaff.
I was ecstatic and the first one in line at 3 p.m. to get into the game. I walked into the ballpark using the players and media entrance. Jerry Remy, a former Red Sox player and current TV announcer, walked in front of me. He had a paunch and was smoking a cigarette. I was disappointed.
I went up to the press box behind home plate and talked to some of the media personnel.
I then made my way to the Red Sox locker room where David Ortiz, Red Sox slugger and last year's World Series hero, was sitting on the couch watching a movie. I sat down next to Ortiz, made small talk and tried to get an interview.
"Ever been to Phoenix before, David?" I asked, since the Sox (American League) normally don't play the Diamondbacks (National League).
"Never been to Phoenix," Ortiz answered.
"Where are you from?" I asked.
"Dominican Republic," Ortiz said. "But my wife is from Wisconsin."
An Arizona Diamondback clubhouse manager was apparently put off with my interview style, or maybe it was my Red Sox hat and Ocean Pacific red beach shorts. He asked who I was and wanted to see my credentials.
I leapt off the couch, presented my press pass and apologized before making my way to the playing field to watch batting practice and talk to the other writers.
In the game, Bronson Arroyo, who has the most unbelievable high leg kick, struggled on the mound but the Sox pulled through 10-9.
The next day I came back to the ballpark and took my seat on the third base line, 10 rows back. The Diamondbacks shelled knuckleballer Tim Wakefield and won 10-3.
Next column, it's back to running, biking and swimming … sports I understand.
As soon as the 2005 schedules were announced, I conspired, schemed and made plans to see my beloved Sox.
"The Sox are playing the Diamondbacks in Arizona for a couple of special games during spring training," I announced to my wife last December, while both seeking her approval and her desire to accompany me.
"Go ahead and have fun," Cathy said. "But I'm not going down there with you."
I dislike driving and haven't owned a car for 15 years. I usually ride my bike, run and walk everywhere. I thought about biking to Phoenix, but even I have my limits.
I bought tickets the first day they went on sale in January, and I scored great seats behind home plate and on the third base line. With high gas prices, I decided to ride Greyhound (20 hours each way) for $99 round-trip. I then booked a room at the Hampton Inn in midtown Phoenix, just three miles from Bank One Ballpark.
I left on the 9:30 a.m. southbound bus from Durango on a Wednesday morning and arrived in Phoenix at 2:30 a.m. on Thursday. Greyhound takes the long way around with many stops and holdovers in Albuquerque and Flagstaff.
I was ecstatic and the first one in line at 3 p.m. to get into the game. I walked into the ballpark using the players and media entrance. Jerry Remy, a former Red Sox player and current TV announcer, walked in front of me. He had a paunch and was smoking a cigarette. I was disappointed.
I went up to the press box behind home plate and talked to some of the media personnel.
I then made my way to the Red Sox locker room where David Ortiz, Red Sox slugger and last year's World Series hero, was sitting on the couch watching a movie. I sat down next to Ortiz, made small talk and tried to get an interview.
"Ever been to Phoenix before, David?" I asked, since the Sox (American League) normally don't play the Diamondbacks (National League).
"Never been to Phoenix," Ortiz answered.
"Where are you from?" I asked.
"Dominican Republic," Ortiz said. "But my wife is from Wisconsin."
An Arizona Diamondback clubhouse manager was apparently put off with my interview style, or maybe it was my Red Sox hat and Ocean Pacific red beach shorts. He asked who I was and wanted to see my credentials.
I leapt off the couch, presented my press pass and apologized before making my way to the playing field to watch batting practice and talk to the other writers.
In the game, Bronson Arroyo, who has the most unbelievable high leg kick, struggled on the mound but the Sox pulled through 10-9.
The next day I came back to the ballpark and took my seat on the third base line, 10 rows back. The Diamondbacks shelled knuckleballer Tim Wakefield and won 10-3.
Next column, it's back to running, biking and swimming … sports I understand.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
La Luz Trail
Corner Pocket: La Luz Trail, N.M.© April/May 2005 - by Marc Witkes
Of the many great benefits to Albuquerque, including a mild and dry climate, the cheapest airline tickets in the Four Corners, and the Isotopes: a minor league baseball team, the Sandia Mountains and La Luz Trail are near the top — in many ways.
This amazing area boasts 180 miles of trails, Sandia Peak ski area, the world’s longest passenger tramway, 58 species of mammals, 34 species of reptiles, 189 species of birds and 1,500 species of plants.
And of the many ways to enjoy the Sandias, my favorite is running or hiking up the La Luz trail and taking the Sandia Peak Tramway down.
Constructed in 1964-1966 at a cost of $2 million footed by Bell Engineering of Lucerne, Switzerland, the tramway whisks passengers 3.6 miles down in 14 minutes.
To get to the parking lot and tramway terminal, drive north on Tramway Blvd. and turn right (east) on Sandia Heights. Costs are $3 per car and $15 for the tramway.
Start your run or hike on the North Tramway Trail in the northeast corner of the lower tramway parking lot. The trail begins at 6,559 feet elevation, skirts a residential area for two miles, climbs 800 feet, turns east and descends to the junction of La Luz trail. A "5 mile" sign marks the beginning of a series of 19 switchbacks, many of which are cut through rocky sections made up of layers of shale and limestone. At the Y near the top of the trail, turn right and proceed to the top terminal and High Finance Restaurant (10,378 feet elevation).
While moving up La Luz Trail, you’ll notice dramatically different weather patterns and topographical features. There are four different climatic zones in the Sandias. The Upper Sonoran Zone lies at approximately 5,000 to 7,000 feet elevation, the Transition Zone at 7,000 to 8,000 feet, the Canadian Zone at 8,000 to 10,000 feet and Hudsonian Zone above 10,000 feet. In layman terms, you’ll start in the desert, travel through a wet area and finish in a spectacular alpine setting. Because of these transitional zones, taking off and putting on your jacket, gloves and hat is a common occurrence.
None of this matters that much as you struggle with a shortness of breath while climbing trail sections with a 12-percent grade, but try to pay attention. Juniper, pinion, Gambel and Gray oak, aspen, Douglas and corkback fir, Englemann spruce and limber pine, all quake along the trail. Wildflowers also rage from May to August.
La Luz trail is open year round with the best time to visit in the spring and fall. In summer, temperatures are hot. In winter, you’ll need snowshoes and hiking poles.
40th Annual La Luz Trail Run
Hiking or jogging the La Luz too casual for you? How about racing to the top with 400 other runners on August 7 for the La Luz Trail Run. Register on April 1 at www.aroadrun.org — and quickly, it fills fast.
While conditioned mountain goats can top out in one and a half hours, hikers take closer to three hours.
The course starts about one mile north of the tramway. Competitors run 1.8 miles on pavement to the Juan Tabo picnic grounds before bounding up the trail for 7.2 miles.
Pat Hickey, 55, a local, has run the race four times. "When I was more competitive it was one of my favorites and very challenging," Hickey said. "The race was also featured in a 2001 Trailrunner Magazine as one of the ‘12 Most Grueling Trail Races in North America.’"
My wife, Cathy, who introduced me to La Luz a few years ago, won the Master’s Division in 1995 and 1996.
"La Luz is one of the hardest races I have ever done in my life but it is also one of the most beautiful courses," Tibbetts said. "I may go back and do the race again sometime but for now I’d prefer to run up at a casual pace, have a romantic lunch at High Finance Restaurant and tease my husband on the way back down who’s terrified of heights and gondolas."
Of the many great benefits to Albuquerque, including a mild and dry climate, the cheapest airline tickets in the Four Corners, and the Isotopes: a minor league baseball team, the Sandia Mountains and La Luz Trail are near the top — in many ways.
This amazing area boasts 180 miles of trails, Sandia Peak ski area, the world’s longest passenger tramway, 58 species of mammals, 34 species of reptiles, 189 species of birds and 1,500 species of plants.
And of the many ways to enjoy the Sandias, my favorite is running or hiking up the La Luz trail and taking the Sandia Peak Tramway down.
Constructed in 1964-1966 at a cost of $2 million footed by Bell Engineering of Lucerne, Switzerland, the tramway whisks passengers 3.6 miles down in 14 minutes.
To get to the parking lot and tramway terminal, drive north on Tramway Blvd. and turn right (east) on Sandia Heights. Costs are $3 per car and $15 for the tramway.
Start your run or hike on the North Tramway Trail in the northeast corner of the lower tramway parking lot. The trail begins at 6,559 feet elevation, skirts a residential area for two miles, climbs 800 feet, turns east and descends to the junction of La Luz trail. A "5 mile" sign marks the beginning of a series of 19 switchbacks, many of which are cut through rocky sections made up of layers of shale and limestone. At the Y near the top of the trail, turn right and proceed to the top terminal and High Finance Restaurant (10,378 feet elevation).
While moving up La Luz Trail, you’ll notice dramatically different weather patterns and topographical features. There are four different climatic zones in the Sandias. The Upper Sonoran Zone lies at approximately 5,000 to 7,000 feet elevation, the Transition Zone at 7,000 to 8,000 feet, the Canadian Zone at 8,000 to 10,000 feet and Hudsonian Zone above 10,000 feet. In layman terms, you’ll start in the desert, travel through a wet area and finish in a spectacular alpine setting. Because of these transitional zones, taking off and putting on your jacket, gloves and hat is a common occurrence.
None of this matters that much as you struggle with a shortness of breath while climbing trail sections with a 12-percent grade, but try to pay attention. Juniper, pinion, Gambel and Gray oak, aspen, Douglas and corkback fir, Englemann spruce and limber pine, all quake along the trail. Wildflowers also rage from May to August.
La Luz trail is open year round with the best time to visit in the spring and fall. In summer, temperatures are hot. In winter, you’ll need snowshoes and hiking poles.
40th Annual La Luz Trail Run
Hiking or jogging the La Luz too casual for you? How about racing to the top with 400 other runners on August 7 for the La Luz Trail Run. Register on April 1 at www.aroadrun.org — and quickly, it fills fast.
While conditioned mountain goats can top out in one and a half hours, hikers take closer to three hours.
The course starts about one mile north of the tramway. Competitors run 1.8 miles on pavement to the Juan Tabo picnic grounds before bounding up the trail for 7.2 miles.
Pat Hickey, 55, a local, has run the race four times. "When I was more competitive it was one of my favorites and very challenging," Hickey said. "The race was also featured in a 2001 Trailrunner Magazine as one of the ‘12 Most Grueling Trail Races in North America.’"
My wife, Cathy, who introduced me to La Luz a few years ago, won the Master’s Division in 1995 and 1996.
"La Luz is one of the hardest races I have ever done in my life but it is also one of the most beautiful courses," Tibbetts said. "I may go back and do the race again sometime but for now I’d prefer to run up at a casual pace, have a romantic lunch at High Finance Restaurant and tease my husband on the way back down who’s terrified of heights and gondolas."
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
Monday, April 04, 2005
Tri the Rim Triathlon offers spring checkup
Student Affairs Director Bill Bolden has been involved with the Fort Lewis College Tri the Rim Triathlon for each of its 17 years.
This community event, to be held on April 16 at 10 a.m., features a 500-yard swim (10 laps in the FLC pool), 12-mile bike (three laps around the rim) and a 5K (3.1 miles) run (once around the FLC campus).
Both teams and individuals are encouraged to participate.
Participants come from throughout the Four Corners to compete in this annual spring rite, but the race has also drawn athletes from Denver, Colorado Springs, Salt Lake City and Albuquerque.
"This is a good spring check-up for your fitness level over the winter," Bolden said. "We have many generous sponsors at this race, and everyone should get a prize."
Hassle Free Sports, Durango Sports Club, Trimble Hot Springs and Brown's Sport Shoe have all been long-time sponsors of Tri the Rim.
With a fun course and great swag, what more could area triathletes possibly want?
"A lot of first-timers are afraid of swimming that far and that's why we have a sprint format," Bolden said.
"Even slower swimmers will make it out of the pool in less than 15 minutes."
With constantly changing spring weather conditions, area triathletes would also do well to hope for sunny, blue skies.
Megan Raymond, assistant director for housing at FLC, is helping with the triathlon and is shadowing Bolden this year.
"This is a good kickoff for a fun summer of events," Raymond said.
"We have a new run course that's part trail and part road and it's all on the rim so you won't have to fight traffic."
In past years, the run portion of the triathlon went down Goeglein Gulch and back up again.
Raymond had a little difficulty measuring and setting this year's run course.
"Every time I tried to measure it, there were a lot of wet, muddy spots," Raymond said. "But I think it's pretty close to actually being 5K."
Steve Stovall, 64, marketing professor at FLC, will be competing in his ninth Tri the Rim.
"It's a good time of the year to have a race because it provides me an incentive to train through the winter," Stovall said. "At my age, it's good to cross-train so I can stay healthy."
Stovall thinks of himself as a runner who is disguised as a triathlete. While competing at the Freedom Days Triathlon in Farmington a few years ago, Stovall had a panic attack in the water.
"I had to walk most of the 10K (6.2 miles) run and the bike portion was a sheer hill," Stovall explained.
Since there were only two people over the age of 60, Stovall finished second in his division and won a nice ceramic bowl.
"That was my reward for sticking it out," Stovall said.
Gary Goold, 51, has completed 15 or so Tri the Rims and is planning to participate this year.
"The thing I remember most about all of the triathlons is that they are consistently well-organized," Goold said.
"I do these for fun because I enjoy the activity and cross-training."
For more information and registration, call Bolden at 970-247-7508.
This community event, to be held on April 16 at 10 a.m., features a 500-yard swim (10 laps in the FLC pool), 12-mile bike (three laps around the rim) and a 5K (3.1 miles) run (once around the FLC campus).
Both teams and individuals are encouraged to participate.
Participants come from throughout the Four Corners to compete in this annual spring rite, but the race has also drawn athletes from Denver, Colorado Springs, Salt Lake City and Albuquerque.
"This is a good spring check-up for your fitness level over the winter," Bolden said. "We have many generous sponsors at this race, and everyone should get a prize."
Hassle Free Sports, Durango Sports Club, Trimble Hot Springs and Brown's Sport Shoe have all been long-time sponsors of Tri the Rim.
With a fun course and great swag, what more could area triathletes possibly want?
"A lot of first-timers are afraid of swimming that far and that's why we have a sprint format," Bolden said.
"Even slower swimmers will make it out of the pool in less than 15 minutes."
With constantly changing spring weather conditions, area triathletes would also do well to hope for sunny, blue skies.
Megan Raymond, assistant director for housing at FLC, is helping with the triathlon and is shadowing Bolden this year.
"This is a good kickoff for a fun summer of events," Raymond said.
"We have a new run course that's part trail and part road and it's all on the rim so you won't have to fight traffic."
In past years, the run portion of the triathlon went down Goeglein Gulch and back up again.
Raymond had a little difficulty measuring and setting this year's run course.
"Every time I tried to measure it, there were a lot of wet, muddy spots," Raymond said. "But I think it's pretty close to actually being 5K."
Steve Stovall, 64, marketing professor at FLC, will be competing in his ninth Tri the Rim.
"It's a good time of the year to have a race because it provides me an incentive to train through the winter," Stovall said. "At my age, it's good to cross-train so I can stay healthy."
Stovall thinks of himself as a runner who is disguised as a triathlete. While competing at the Freedom Days Triathlon in Farmington a few years ago, Stovall had a panic attack in the water.
"I had to walk most of the 10K (6.2 miles) run and the bike portion was a sheer hill," Stovall explained.
Since there were only two people over the age of 60, Stovall finished second in his division and won a nice ceramic bowl.
"That was my reward for sticking it out," Stovall said.
Gary Goold, 51, has completed 15 or so Tri the Rims and is planning to participate this year.
"The thing I remember most about all of the triathlons is that they are consistently well-organized," Goold said.
"I do these for fun because I enjoy the activity and cross-training."
For more information and registration, call Bolden at 970-247-7508.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Criterium offers local ticket to ride
Walt Axthelm, 71, is planning on bringing a few of his fellow age-groupers along so he'll have some company in the upcoming Durango Spring Criterium Series.
A criterium is a bicycle race, but unlike the Iron Horse, you don't have to climb any 10,000-foot passes to join in the fun.
In these races, participants will race laps on a half-mile figure eight flat course running through the Tech Center.
For those who might be counting, there will be six right-hand corners and two lefts. Packs (groups of racers) will be tight, corners will be sharp and the pace will be fast, so you had better bring your bicycle handling skills and a good dose of heart and lung capacity.
Axthelm has been racing crits for the last three years at the Huntsman Senior Games in St. George, Utah, and last year he raced in the Iron Horse crit.
"I have never stopped being active, starting with 30 years of racing motorcycles in motocross and participating in events like the Baja 500 and 1000," Axthelm said. "When I came to Durango
I started racing mountain bikes and then road bikes to stay in shape."
Stephanie Swan, local criterium organizer, has been hard at work the past several months making sure that racers will have fun, safe events where they can showcase their talent.
"One of the biggest hurdles in putting this series together was getting insurance and the necessary cycling officials," Swan said. "There weren't any cycling officials in Durango so in February, six of us attended a USA Cycling clinic. The Durango Wheel Club invited the regional USA cycling representative, Tom Vinson, to Durango."
Vinson, who lives in Colorado Springs, is excited about the upcoming races.
"Durango is a tremendous opportunity for bicycle racing," Vinson said. "The Iron Horse and NORBA races are just the tip of the iceberg."
Criteriums can be tricky races, according to Swan.
"Talented road riders and mountain bikers can be like fish out of water," Swan said. "A flat criterium involves precision cornering and team tactics and not necessarily brute strength to cross the finish line first."
Events are scheduled for four Saturdays: March 26, April 2, April 9 and April 16. Entry fee for each race is $15 and registration will open at 9 a.m. at the Tech Center on race days.
The Fort Lewis College Collegiate Crits will follow at 1 p.m. on the 16th. Sponsors for the series include the Durango Tech Center and the Regular Joe Coffee Bar and Deli.
"We hope that these races will give people a chance to improve their crit racing skills and ultimately give them the confidence to race in the Iron Horse Crit," said Michael Carroll, Durango Wheel Club president.
All riders must have a 2005 USCF license. One-day or annual licenses will be available for purchase at registration.
For more information, contact Swan at 903-4202 or here .
A criterium is a bicycle race, but unlike the Iron Horse, you don't have to climb any 10,000-foot passes to join in the fun.
In these races, participants will race laps on a half-mile figure eight flat course running through the Tech Center.
For those who might be counting, there will be six right-hand corners and two lefts. Packs (groups of racers) will be tight, corners will be sharp and the pace will be fast, so you had better bring your bicycle handling skills and a good dose of heart and lung capacity.
Axthelm has been racing crits for the last three years at the Huntsman Senior Games in St. George, Utah, and last year he raced in the Iron Horse crit.
"I have never stopped being active, starting with 30 years of racing motorcycles in motocross and participating in events like the Baja 500 and 1000," Axthelm said. "When I came to Durango
I started racing mountain bikes and then road bikes to stay in shape."
Stephanie Swan, local criterium organizer, has been hard at work the past several months making sure that racers will have fun, safe events where they can showcase their talent.
"One of the biggest hurdles in putting this series together was getting insurance and the necessary cycling officials," Swan said. "There weren't any cycling officials in Durango so in February, six of us attended a USA Cycling clinic. The Durango Wheel Club invited the regional USA cycling representative, Tom Vinson, to Durango."
Vinson, who lives in Colorado Springs, is excited about the upcoming races.
"Durango is a tremendous opportunity for bicycle racing," Vinson said. "The Iron Horse and NORBA races are just the tip of the iceberg."
Criteriums can be tricky races, according to Swan.
"Talented road riders and mountain bikers can be like fish out of water," Swan said. "A flat criterium involves precision cornering and team tactics and not necessarily brute strength to cross the finish line first."
Events are scheduled for four Saturdays: March 26, April 2, April 9 and April 16. Entry fee for each race is $15 and registration will open at 9 a.m. at the Tech Center on race days.
The Fort Lewis College Collegiate Crits will follow at 1 p.m. on the 16th. Sponsors for the series include the Durango Tech Center and the Regular Joe Coffee Bar and Deli.
"We hope that these races will give people a chance to improve their crit racing skills and ultimately give them the confidence to race in the Iron Horse Crit," said Michael Carroll, Durango Wheel Club president.
All riders must have a 2005 USCF license. One-day or annual licenses will be available for purchase at registration.
For more information, contact Swan at 903-4202 or here .
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
A cut above your average hut
Two weeks ago, Amy Milofsky, her husband, Rob, and five friends took a weekend ski trip to a secret winter hideaway just east of Red Mountain Pass, south of Ouray.
"I want to tell everyone about it but I also want to keep it a secret," she said.
But thanks to a bountiful snow year, and legions of backcountry fans in Durango, the secret is out.
The Mountain Belle ski hut makes for a remarkable four-season weekend getaway, and makes many visitors, like Milofsky, long to make it a permanent residence.
"I'd move there in a heartbeat if I could telecommute," said Amy, who works as a land title guarantee officer in Durango.
Winter access to the Mountain Belle is by skis or snowshoes via a two-mile trail on the east side of Highway 550.
"It's a good trail and it's groomed by snowmobiles," said Robert McKeever, an avid backcountry skier.
The hut sleeps eight people comfortably and has a propane cook stove and oven, wood stove, solar powered lights, fully equipped kitchen and toilet room. It also has pots, pans, cooking utensils, emergency food, split firewood, matches and garbage bags.
As far as huts go, it is luxurious.
McKeever, 51, has visited the Mountain Belle several times in the summer but this was his first winter trip. McKeever used alpine skies fitted with Silveretta bindings for a fast 20-minute commute into the Mountain Belle.
"The bindings allow me to put skins on for uphill sections and also ski downhill sections," McKeever explained.
One night during the fun-filled weekend, McKeever accompanied the others on a moonlit ski.
"The sunset took my breath away," he said. "It was like fire in the sky."
Rob Milofsky, chemistry professor at Fort College, didn't waste any time after skiing into the Mountain Belle.
"I settled in, unpacked and went outside the cabin and made four runs in the open meadow," he said.
Two days later Rob Milofsky telemarked all the way to the Chattanooga Turn on Highway 550 where he met a friend, Travis Ward. Ward and Milofsky then drove up Red Mountain Pass to the trail access and skied back to the hut.
Milofsky has also visited the Last Dollar hut in Telluride, the Burn hut in between Telluride and Ridgway, the Pass Creek Yurt, which is part of the 10th Mountain Division system, and the Ridgway hut.
"A lot of the huts claim to be able to sleep eight people, but they are really cramped," Milofsky said. "The Mountain Belle is well-designed and does sleep eight comfortably."
There is a double bed in the downstairs bedroom, three double bed mattresses in the upstairs sleeping loft and a main living area with a kitchen and indoor wood storage.
Dea Funka, McKeever's girlfriend, was also along for the weekend adventure.
"You don't have to be an experienced skier to enjoy the hut," she said.
Funka, an archaeologist for the Forest Service in Norwood, was happy to ski within her abilities and on her own level.
"There are all different areas for backcountry skiing near the hut," Amy Milofsky added. "Some are steep and some aren't so steep. There are open meadows and there are areas with tight trees for experts."
The Mountain Belle has lots of windows and the views are breathtaking. With south and west exposure, sunshine is plentiful. Not too much to look at except spectacular mountain peaks in every direction.
"I think that the Mountain Belle offers some of the best views in Colorado," McKeever said. "I've spent lots of time in the backcountry and this place is a kick in the pants."
About the only thing the Mountain Belle doesn't have is running water. Winter guests melt snow while summer visitors can haul water from the nearby Addie S cabin. And, of course, there isn't a shower.
"The Mountain Belle is an amazing resource to have right in our own backyard," Rob Milofsky said. "It's good healthy fun, and more people should take advantage of this gem."
McGeever's brother, David, his wife Carol, trip organizer, and their 11-year-old daughter Aspen, rounded out the party. Aspen, a third-grade student at Miller Middle School has been skiing since she was five.
"Aspen is an easy kid and she does really well with the 'endurance thing,'" Carol said. "Last summer we did a bike trip over Cinnamon and Engineer Pass and Aspen did great there."
Ski weekends with friends and family in a remote hut can be lots of fun, but there are still chores to do and hungry appetites that must be satisfied.
"We all took turns making dinner and washing the dishes," Carol said.
The Milofsky's menu included pesto walnut tortellini, homemade pizza and a good bottle of wine. Robert cooked elk stir fry.
David and Karen Dow own both the Mountain Belle and the Addie S. David designed the Mountain Belle and finished it in January 2000.
"I originally built the Addie S for my family to use, because I loved skiing in the area," David said.
"I have been skiing up there since 1982 and when I learned there was other private property in the area I decided to build the Mountain Belle."
Because he can't use two places at once and he doesn't live there, Dow decided to rent out the structures.
"It is a lot of work sometimes, but I do love being up there, so, yes, it is a labor of love," Dow said.
For reservations or more information on the huts, call 970-257-0787 or visit www.skihuts.com.
Reach Marc Witkes at 247-3116.
"I want to tell everyone about it but I also want to keep it a secret," she said.
But thanks to a bountiful snow year, and legions of backcountry fans in Durango, the secret is out.
The Mountain Belle ski hut makes for a remarkable four-season weekend getaway, and makes many visitors, like Milofsky, long to make it a permanent residence.
"I'd move there in a heartbeat if I could telecommute," said Amy, who works as a land title guarantee officer in Durango.
Winter access to the Mountain Belle is by skis or snowshoes via a two-mile trail on the east side of Highway 550.
"It's a good trail and it's groomed by snowmobiles," said Robert McKeever, an avid backcountry skier.
The hut sleeps eight people comfortably and has a propane cook stove and oven, wood stove, solar powered lights, fully equipped kitchen and toilet room. It also has pots, pans, cooking utensils, emergency food, split firewood, matches and garbage bags.
As far as huts go, it is luxurious.
McKeever, 51, has visited the Mountain Belle several times in the summer but this was his first winter trip. McKeever used alpine skies fitted with Silveretta bindings for a fast 20-minute commute into the Mountain Belle.
"The bindings allow me to put skins on for uphill sections and also ski downhill sections," McKeever explained.
One night during the fun-filled weekend, McKeever accompanied the others on a moonlit ski.
"The sunset took my breath away," he said. "It was like fire in the sky."
Rob Milofsky, chemistry professor at Fort College, didn't waste any time after skiing into the Mountain Belle.
"I settled in, unpacked and went outside the cabin and made four runs in the open meadow," he said.
Two days later Rob Milofsky telemarked all the way to the Chattanooga Turn on Highway 550 where he met a friend, Travis Ward. Ward and Milofsky then drove up Red Mountain Pass to the trail access and skied back to the hut.
Milofsky has also visited the Last Dollar hut in Telluride, the Burn hut in between Telluride and Ridgway, the Pass Creek Yurt, which is part of the 10th Mountain Division system, and the Ridgway hut.
"A lot of the huts claim to be able to sleep eight people, but they are really cramped," Milofsky said. "The Mountain Belle is well-designed and does sleep eight comfortably."
There is a double bed in the downstairs bedroom, three double bed mattresses in the upstairs sleeping loft and a main living area with a kitchen and indoor wood storage.
Dea Funka, McKeever's girlfriend, was also along for the weekend adventure.
"You don't have to be an experienced skier to enjoy the hut," she said.
Funka, an archaeologist for the Forest Service in Norwood, was happy to ski within her abilities and on her own level.
"There are all different areas for backcountry skiing near the hut," Amy Milofsky added. "Some are steep and some aren't so steep. There are open meadows and there are areas with tight trees for experts."
The Mountain Belle has lots of windows and the views are breathtaking. With south and west exposure, sunshine is plentiful. Not too much to look at except spectacular mountain peaks in every direction.
"I think that the Mountain Belle offers some of the best views in Colorado," McKeever said. "I've spent lots of time in the backcountry and this place is a kick in the pants."
About the only thing the Mountain Belle doesn't have is running water. Winter guests melt snow while summer visitors can haul water from the nearby Addie S cabin. And, of course, there isn't a shower.
"The Mountain Belle is an amazing resource to have right in our own backyard," Rob Milofsky said. "It's good healthy fun, and more people should take advantage of this gem."
McGeever's brother, David, his wife Carol, trip organizer, and their 11-year-old daughter Aspen, rounded out the party. Aspen, a third-grade student at Miller Middle School has been skiing since she was five.
"Aspen is an easy kid and she does really well with the 'endurance thing,'" Carol said. "Last summer we did a bike trip over Cinnamon and Engineer Pass and Aspen did great there."
Ski weekends with friends and family in a remote hut can be lots of fun, but there are still chores to do and hungry appetites that must be satisfied.
"We all took turns making dinner and washing the dishes," Carol said.
The Milofsky's menu included pesto walnut tortellini, homemade pizza and a good bottle of wine. Robert cooked elk stir fry.
David and Karen Dow own both the Mountain Belle and the Addie S. David designed the Mountain Belle and finished it in January 2000.
"I originally built the Addie S for my family to use, because I loved skiing in the area," David said.
"I have been skiing up there since 1982 and when I learned there was other private property in the area I decided to build the Mountain Belle."
Because he can't use two places at once and he doesn't live there, Dow decided to rent out the structures.
"It is a lot of work sometimes, but I do love being up there, so, yes, it is a labor of love," Dow said.
For reservations or more information on the huts, call 970-257-0787 or visit www.skihuts.com.
Reach Marc Witkes at 247-3116.
Romantic getaways in the Four Corners
What are you and your sweetheart doing for Valentine's Day? How about something new that will be sure to put a smile on your significant other's face and will score some points when you leave the toilet seat up later on in the month or don’t clean up after yourself? Here are some suggestions for places to go, overnight accommodations, activities and a romantic meal. Most of these picks are very reasonable and there are a few where it's nice to splurge.
You don't have to travel far for some great getaways. People travel hundreds or even thousands of miles searching for the perfect new adventure but we are all very fortunate to live in the Four Corners region where there are so many diverse places right under our noses. We need only to open our eyes and minds, be creative and look around a little.
AZTEC
Downtown Aztec has some great things to offer. John and Gail Aspromonte have owned Miss Gail's Inn (505-334-3452) since 1992. Miss Gail's is a state registered historic landmark hotel and is a delightful bed and breakfast. There are four guestrooms and four efficiency apartments. "Each room is different," John said.
Hard Backs Books and Art espresso (200 S. Main) has thousands of high-quality used books and an extensive selection of local authors. Where else could you find a copy of History of San Juan County Post Office or Bighorns in the Desert? Nikki and Jim Rubow serve baked goods, display local artisans and hold frequent book signings. I picked up three first edition hardbacks for $4 each.
Rubio's (116 S. Main St.) offers fine Mexican dining. John Winkley, a schoolteacher in Bloomfield, NM, likes spinach enchiladas while his girlfriend Mary Donnelly, a draftsperson, doesn't remember what she ate because she was too busy gazing into Winkley's eyes.
David Albright runs the fascinating UFO Information Center (505-334-9890) where you can buy extraterrestrials in all shapes and sizes and pick up a copy of William Steinman's extensively researched, UFO Crash at Aztec. Just 20 minutes northwest of Aztec is the supposed flying saucer crash site (aztecufo.com) where you can bike or run the alien loop.
The 320-acre Aztec Ruins National Monument is three quarters of a mile north of Highway 516. Walk the trails and see the "great houses," small residential pueblos, tri-wall kivas and earthworks. Many folks don't even know this place exists but the ruins are significant. One wall is longer than a football field. Make sure to duck while going underneath the unique T-shaped doorways that connect rooms directly to the central plaza.
OURAY
Ouray is home to some of the best ice climbing in the world. The Ouray Ice Park (ourayicepark.com) in the Uncompahgre Gorge was opened in 1995 and offers free ice climbing. Getting cold feet here about popping the question is only natural.
The Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa and Lodgings (wiesbadenhotsprings.com) was built in 1879. Besides offering accommodations with a European flair, the Weisbaden has a hot springs vapor cave underneath the building, a private outdoor spa and soaking pool. The Spa offers a full range of treatments including massage and La Stone therapy. You and your date will be pampered here.
Dine at the Bon Ton Restaurant in the St. Elmo Hotel (426 Main Street) and feast on Tortellini Carbonara, Scampi Bon Ton and Black Nasty (chocolate fudge pie with graham cracker crust) for dessert.
DURANGO
Durango boasts so many fine places to stay and eat that it is pretty difficult to pick only a few. The Strater Hotel (699 Main Avenue) is right in the heart of the historic district. Hand-screened wallpapers, antique furniture and lots of crystal and lace make for a romantic setting even before you enter one of the 93 Victorian rooms.
"We've had lots of people get married in the lobby and rooms," Renate Widder, rooms revenue manager, said. "We also offer turn-down service, roses and chocolate for special occasions."
Ken and Sue's Place is right across the street for dinner. You and your date can sit by the window and watch the people stroll downtown. "Cilantro Crusted Halibut and Chocolate Molten Cake are some of the favorites here," manager Sara Parish said. "We have an intimate setting with nice booths. The 100-year-old wooden bar here is from Chicago and was also in Silverton for a while. Everybody asks us about it."
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (durangotrain.com) offers excursions halfway to Silverton and stops at Cascade for a snack stop all winter long. The setting is peaceful, quiet and spectacular.
MONTICELLO
Monticello is the "Heart of the Colorado Plateau" and gateway to Canyonlands. The Grist Mill Inn (www.gristmillinn.com) produced flour for the community until the mid-1960s but has been restored as a bed and breakfast with seven guestrooms. You can still see the huge mill when you walk into the lobby. There is a sitting room with fireplace on the main level, a television area with VCR on the second floor and a library with lots of classic literary selections on the third floor.
The Utah Ghost Hunters Society held a convention at the Inn in October 2003 to do some investigating. If you think you see some apparitions or strange happenings, you had just better hold on tighter to your lover.
The Joint Trail in Canyonlands (www.nps.gov/cany) is one of my favorites. Walk through a huge rock that has been split. Inside the fracture, high walls tower on both sides and there is not even an arm's length across. Maybe sneak a kiss since it's dark and there is so little sunlight that peeks into the fissure.
PAGOSA SPRINGS
The Pinewood Inn in Pagosa Springs (157 Pagosa Street) is centrally located near the hot springs and the rooms are simple, clean and cozy. There's plenty of coffee and pastry in the morning.
Ron Bubb, Switchback Sporting Goods store owner and his wife, Ann, like JJ's Upstream Restaurant (356 E. Hwy 160). "It’s got a great atmosphere and you can look out at the river," Bubb said. Dinner is served nightly from 4-9 p.m. and there is a Sunday Brunch too.
Traditional activities in Pagosa are the Hot Springs (pagosaspringsresort.com) and skiing at Wolf Creek Ski Area (wolfcreekski.com). There are 17 hot mineral soaking pools at the Springs and 45% of the trails at Wolf Creek are expert or advanced terrain.
SILVERTON
The Inn of the Rockies at the historic Alma House in Silverton was built in 1898. Afternoon tea, feather mattresses and fresh baked goods are all nice touches. Breakfast is served in the waiting room on the first floor and consists of a scrumptious New Orleans style feast. Rich, creamy yogurt mixed with granola and fruit was my favorite.
Silverton Mountain, the area's newest skiing mecca, was ranked #1 in steeps and #1 in powder in the USA by Skiing Magazine. "Skiing together is a bonding experience," co-founder Jenny Ader-Brill said. "We’ve had wedding ceremonies and champagne toasts high on top of Silverton Mountain. Jenny and Aaron Brill used to ski together a lot before they started the ski area.
"We already had it this year but we hold a ‘He said, she said’ ski camp with pros Wendy Fisher and Chris Anthony," Jenny added. "It’s great for couples."
Pasta la Vista (970-387-5352), one of the few restaurants that is open year-round, is one of Jenny’s favorites. "They have nightly specials ranging from calzones to pork tenderloin," she said.
I don’t indulge too often but my girlfriend Cathy and I feasted on delicious tera misu one night in Silverton before running 20 miles the following day.
TELLURIDE
Telluride is a winter Disneyland. The Hotel Telluride (thehoteltelluride.com), opened September 21, 2001, has 54 luxurious rooms and four suites, each with its own climate control. There are comfortable leather couches in the lobby along with a chessboard in case you want some cerebral stimulation. It's only a few blocks to the gondola downtown and there is even a shuttle service in case you have too much equipment and gear in hand.
"We have marble bathrooms and we offer Aveda product for in-room amenities," guest services represenative Jackie Witter said. "There's a spa on premises, outdoor hot tub, steam shower and we put out complimentary apres-ski hors d'oevres."
The gondola offers free public transportation between the Mountain Village and downtown. Use the gondola to access 1,700 acres of skiable terrain or ride it at night to view the city lights and eat at Allred's (970-728-7474,Gondola Station, St. Sophia). Allred’s is perched high along the gondola's route at 10,551 feet. Enjoy Asian Spiced Muscovy Duck or Passion Fruit Smoked Salmon. The views are spectacular and the catch phrase here is, "it’s okay to eat with your eyes full."
Besides downhill skiing, there is ice skating in the Town Park and Mountain Village. Carrie Mock of Telluride Snowmobile Adventures said, "The Dunton Hot Springs tour, lunch and soak is romantic."
RIDGWAY
Stay at the Orvis Hot Springs (orvishotsprings.com) in Ridgway. There are no telephones or televisions in the guestrooms as these accommodations are strictly for relaxation. Guests in the lodge have access to the hot springs 24-hours a day. "There is nude soaking under the stars," Manager Terese Gibson said. "We've had people get engaged, married, conceive children and celebrate anniversaries here."
Sara Ballantyne, professional mountain biker and adventure racer, also works as a massage therapist at Orvis. She and husband Chris Haaland frequent The Adobe Inn (970-626-5939) Mexican restaurant. "They have fabulous margaritas and local cuisine and it is a nice way to end a weekend of backcountry skiing on nearby Red Mountain Pass or cross country skiing out our back door in Ridgway," Ballantyne said.
DOLORES
Cloud Nine (www.2cloud9.com), a rustic log style Bed and Breakfast, sits on 30 acres three miles up on Rd. 31 on the Granath Mesa in Dolores. Proprietors Ray Simanson, Leslie Judice and their dog Hanu, wake up every morning to spectacular sunrises, go to sleep with blazing orange and red sunsets and spot magnificent views of the La Plata Mountains all day long.
The Great Room has a stone fireplace and hign vaulted wooden ceilings supported by thick, exposed beams. "We do lots of weddings here," Simanson said. There's a bar, billiards table, yoga center and gift shop on the premises.
Eat and drink at the Dolores River Brewery (100 South Fourth Street). Jimmy and Wendy Mimiaga love the E.S.B. ("If you have to ask, you’ll never know," Dolores resident, Matt Robinson said.) The Campagna pizza has mounds of pesto, caramelized sweet onions, crimini mushrooms and prosciutto Italian ham. I enjoyed the sausage tortellini soup. "The Brewery has really changed the dynamics in town in a positive way and has been a catalyst for community involvement," Jimmy said. "And what better place to bring a date when there is free music like the Lawn Chair Kings?"
The Anasazi Heritage Center (www.co.blm.gov/ahc) is a museum of the Ancestral Puebloan (or Anasazi) culture and other Native cultures in the Four Corners region. There are permanent exhibits on archaeology, local history, and a research collection of over 3 million artifacts. Learn about the former town of McPhee that is now submerged beneath the reservoir.
MANCOS
The Absolute Bakery and Cafe (292 East 1st St.) in downtown Mancos is open for breakfast and lunch and serves fresh baked muffins, banana bread and homemade granola. Owners Sean McCall and Carly Borelli are proud to serve fair trade coffee. "It's straight from a farmer in Nicaragua," Borelli said. "A former employee, Megan Duty, was there for six months and she set the whole thing up for us." The walls are filled with works from local artists like wood sculptor, David Sipe. You can also buy stunning local photo cards here from David Baker or pick up a copy of "Culinary Colorado".
The Bauer House Bed and Breakfast (bauer-house.com) is included in the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. "It was built in 1896 by the town founder, George Bauer, who used it as his family's home," hostess Bobbi Black said. "Later when it was a hospital, there were lots of babies delivered there." The Bauer house has received "Best Customer Service" marks three years in a row from the prestigious Arrington's Inn Traveler quarterly magazine.
If it’s a sunny day (and there are plenty of those even in winter) Highway 184 between Mancos and Dolores is one of my favorite stretches for road bicycling. It's not very hilly and you can get great views of Sleeping Ute (www.homestead.com/deewebs/ute). There is a nice, wide breakdown lane and there isn't much traffic.
FARMINGTON
The Adobe Bed and Breakfast and Silver River Spa Retreat (www.silveradobe.com) is tucked away in the southwest corner of Farmington, NM, on the cliffside bank of the San Juan River. "We serve Peach Clafouti French pudding, grind our own oats for oatmeal waffles and have fresh Farmington apples for breakfast," co-owner Diana Ohlson said. "The place is like a nature preserve and we have eagles, birds, foxes, Peregrine falcon, raccoons and deer on the property."
The adobe structure is a mixture of mud, dirt, clay and straw and there are massive wooden timbers. "We feel very happy to offer people a place with traditional northwestern New Mexico architecture," Ohlson added. David Beers, Ohlson's husband, is an anthropologist and between the two of them, they serve as a mini Chamber of Commerce and local historians for the area.
Johnny Carino's (505-325-0081) serves bread and oil with every meal. I've had the lasagna several times and I'm still trying to count the number of layers. Carino's also offers fast and convenient pick-up service. Call ahead, drive your car up to the entrance and a waiter greets you and runs back in to bring out your order.
Mountain bike on the Kinsey Trail (www.roadapplerally.com/trailmap). This trail stays dry all year-round. Access is the end of Foothills Drive.
Valentine's Day is a great occasion to try out some of these places but I recommend that you have more than one weekend away each year. You’ll be in big trouble if you save romantic surprises only for Valentine's Day.
Marc Witkes, Durango writer, is trying a new romantic getaway this month. He's trailrunning, bicycling, swimming and honeymooning with Cathy Tibbetts in Honolulu.
You don't have to travel far for some great getaways. People travel hundreds or even thousands of miles searching for the perfect new adventure but we are all very fortunate to live in the Four Corners region where there are so many diverse places right under our noses. We need only to open our eyes and minds, be creative and look around a little.
AZTEC
Downtown Aztec has some great things to offer. John and Gail Aspromonte have owned Miss Gail's Inn (505-334-3452) since 1992. Miss Gail's is a state registered historic landmark hotel and is a delightful bed and breakfast. There are four guestrooms and four efficiency apartments. "Each room is different," John said.
Hard Backs Books and Art espresso (200 S. Main) has thousands of high-quality used books and an extensive selection of local authors. Where else could you find a copy of History of San Juan County Post Office or Bighorns in the Desert? Nikki and Jim Rubow serve baked goods, display local artisans and hold frequent book signings. I picked up three first edition hardbacks for $4 each.
Rubio's (116 S. Main St.) offers fine Mexican dining. John Winkley, a schoolteacher in Bloomfield, NM, likes spinach enchiladas while his girlfriend Mary Donnelly, a draftsperson, doesn't remember what she ate because she was too busy gazing into Winkley's eyes.
David Albright runs the fascinating UFO Information Center (505-334-9890) where you can buy extraterrestrials in all shapes and sizes and pick up a copy of William Steinman's extensively researched, UFO Crash at Aztec. Just 20 minutes northwest of Aztec is the supposed flying saucer crash site (aztecufo.com) where you can bike or run the alien loop.
The 320-acre Aztec Ruins National Monument is three quarters of a mile north of Highway 516. Walk the trails and see the "great houses," small residential pueblos, tri-wall kivas and earthworks. Many folks don't even know this place exists but the ruins are significant. One wall is longer than a football field. Make sure to duck while going underneath the unique T-shaped doorways that connect rooms directly to the central plaza.
OURAY
Ouray is home to some of the best ice climbing in the world. The Ouray Ice Park (ourayicepark.com) in the Uncompahgre Gorge was opened in 1995 and offers free ice climbing. Getting cold feet here about popping the question is only natural.
The Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa and Lodgings (wiesbadenhotsprings.com) was built in 1879. Besides offering accommodations with a European flair, the Weisbaden has a hot springs vapor cave underneath the building, a private outdoor spa and soaking pool. The Spa offers a full range of treatments including massage and La Stone therapy. You and your date will be pampered here.
Dine at the Bon Ton Restaurant in the St. Elmo Hotel (426 Main Street) and feast on Tortellini Carbonara, Scampi Bon Ton and Black Nasty (chocolate fudge pie with graham cracker crust) for dessert.
DURANGO
Durango boasts so many fine places to stay and eat that it is pretty difficult to pick only a few. The Strater Hotel (699 Main Avenue) is right in the heart of the historic district. Hand-screened wallpapers, antique furniture and lots of crystal and lace make for a romantic setting even before you enter one of the 93 Victorian rooms.
"We've had lots of people get married in the lobby and rooms," Renate Widder, rooms revenue manager, said. "We also offer turn-down service, roses and chocolate for special occasions."
Ken and Sue's Place is right across the street for dinner. You and your date can sit by the window and watch the people stroll downtown. "Cilantro Crusted Halibut and Chocolate Molten Cake are some of the favorites here," manager Sara Parish said. "We have an intimate setting with nice booths. The 100-year-old wooden bar here is from Chicago and was also in Silverton for a while. Everybody asks us about it."
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (durangotrain.com) offers excursions halfway to Silverton and stops at Cascade for a snack stop all winter long. The setting is peaceful, quiet and spectacular.
MONTICELLO
Monticello is the "Heart of the Colorado Plateau" and gateway to Canyonlands. The Grist Mill Inn (www.gristmillinn.com) produced flour for the community until the mid-1960s but has been restored as a bed and breakfast with seven guestrooms. You can still see the huge mill when you walk into the lobby. There is a sitting room with fireplace on the main level, a television area with VCR on the second floor and a library with lots of classic literary selections on the third floor.
The Utah Ghost Hunters Society held a convention at the Inn in October 2003 to do some investigating. If you think you see some apparitions or strange happenings, you had just better hold on tighter to your lover.
The Joint Trail in Canyonlands (www.nps.gov/cany) is one of my favorites. Walk through a huge rock that has been split. Inside the fracture, high walls tower on both sides and there is not even an arm's length across. Maybe sneak a kiss since it's dark and there is so little sunlight that peeks into the fissure.
PAGOSA SPRINGS
The Pinewood Inn in Pagosa Springs (157 Pagosa Street) is centrally located near the hot springs and the rooms are simple, clean and cozy. There's plenty of coffee and pastry in the morning.
Ron Bubb, Switchback Sporting Goods store owner and his wife, Ann, like JJ's Upstream Restaurant (356 E. Hwy 160). "It’s got a great atmosphere and you can look out at the river," Bubb said. Dinner is served nightly from 4-9 p.m. and there is a Sunday Brunch too.
Traditional activities in Pagosa are the Hot Springs (pagosaspringsresort.com) and skiing at Wolf Creek Ski Area (wolfcreekski.com). There are 17 hot mineral soaking pools at the Springs and 45% of the trails at Wolf Creek are expert or advanced terrain.
SILVERTON
The Inn of the Rockies at the historic Alma House in Silverton was built in 1898. Afternoon tea, feather mattresses and fresh baked goods are all nice touches. Breakfast is served in the waiting room on the first floor and consists of a scrumptious New Orleans style feast. Rich, creamy yogurt mixed with granola and fruit was my favorite.
Silverton Mountain, the area's newest skiing mecca, was ranked #1 in steeps and #1 in powder in the USA by Skiing Magazine. "Skiing together is a bonding experience," co-founder Jenny Ader-Brill said. "We’ve had wedding ceremonies and champagne toasts high on top of Silverton Mountain. Jenny and Aaron Brill used to ski together a lot before they started the ski area.
"We already had it this year but we hold a ‘He said, she said’ ski camp with pros Wendy Fisher and Chris Anthony," Jenny added. "It’s great for couples."
Pasta la Vista (970-387-5352), one of the few restaurants that is open year-round, is one of Jenny’s favorites. "They have nightly specials ranging from calzones to pork tenderloin," she said.
I don’t indulge too often but my girlfriend Cathy and I feasted on delicious tera misu one night in Silverton before running 20 miles the following day.
TELLURIDE
Telluride is a winter Disneyland. The Hotel Telluride (thehoteltelluride.com), opened September 21, 2001, has 54 luxurious rooms and four suites, each with its own climate control. There are comfortable leather couches in the lobby along with a chessboard in case you want some cerebral stimulation. It's only a few blocks to the gondola downtown and there is even a shuttle service in case you have too much equipment and gear in hand.
"We have marble bathrooms and we offer Aveda product for in-room amenities," guest services represenative Jackie Witter said. "There's a spa on premises, outdoor hot tub, steam shower and we put out complimentary apres-ski hors d'oevres."
The gondola offers free public transportation between the Mountain Village and downtown. Use the gondola to access 1,700 acres of skiable terrain or ride it at night to view the city lights and eat at Allred's (970-728-7474,Gondola Station, St. Sophia). Allred’s is perched high along the gondola's route at 10,551 feet. Enjoy Asian Spiced Muscovy Duck or Passion Fruit Smoked Salmon. The views are spectacular and the catch phrase here is, "it’s okay to eat with your eyes full."
Besides downhill skiing, there is ice skating in the Town Park and Mountain Village. Carrie Mock of Telluride Snowmobile Adventures said, "The Dunton Hot Springs tour, lunch and soak is romantic."
RIDGWAY
Stay at the Orvis Hot Springs (orvishotsprings.com) in Ridgway. There are no telephones or televisions in the guestrooms as these accommodations are strictly for relaxation. Guests in the lodge have access to the hot springs 24-hours a day. "There is nude soaking under the stars," Manager Terese Gibson said. "We've had people get engaged, married, conceive children and celebrate anniversaries here."
Sara Ballantyne, professional mountain biker and adventure racer, also works as a massage therapist at Orvis. She and husband Chris Haaland frequent The Adobe Inn (970-626-5939) Mexican restaurant. "They have fabulous margaritas and local cuisine and it is a nice way to end a weekend of backcountry skiing on nearby Red Mountain Pass or cross country skiing out our back door in Ridgway," Ballantyne said.
DOLORES
Cloud Nine (www.2cloud9.com), a rustic log style Bed and Breakfast, sits on 30 acres three miles up on Rd. 31 on the Granath Mesa in Dolores. Proprietors Ray Simanson, Leslie Judice and their dog Hanu, wake up every morning to spectacular sunrises, go to sleep with blazing orange and red sunsets and spot magnificent views of the La Plata Mountains all day long.
The Great Room has a stone fireplace and hign vaulted wooden ceilings supported by thick, exposed beams. "We do lots of weddings here," Simanson said. There's a bar, billiards table, yoga center and gift shop on the premises.
Eat and drink at the Dolores River Brewery (100 South Fourth Street). Jimmy and Wendy Mimiaga love the E.S.B. ("If you have to ask, you’ll never know," Dolores resident, Matt Robinson said.) The Campagna pizza has mounds of pesto, caramelized sweet onions, crimini mushrooms and prosciutto Italian ham. I enjoyed the sausage tortellini soup. "The Brewery has really changed the dynamics in town in a positive way and has been a catalyst for community involvement," Jimmy said. "And what better place to bring a date when there is free music like the Lawn Chair Kings?"
The Anasazi Heritage Center (www.co.blm.gov/ahc) is a museum of the Ancestral Puebloan (or Anasazi) culture and other Native cultures in the Four Corners region. There are permanent exhibits on archaeology, local history, and a research collection of over 3 million artifacts. Learn about the former town of McPhee that is now submerged beneath the reservoir.
MANCOS
The Absolute Bakery and Cafe (292 East 1st St.) in downtown Mancos is open for breakfast and lunch and serves fresh baked muffins, banana bread and homemade granola. Owners Sean McCall and Carly Borelli are proud to serve fair trade coffee. "It's straight from a farmer in Nicaragua," Borelli said. "A former employee, Megan Duty, was there for six months and she set the whole thing up for us." The walls are filled with works from local artists like wood sculptor, David Sipe. You can also buy stunning local photo cards here from David Baker or pick up a copy of "Culinary Colorado".
The Bauer House Bed and Breakfast (bauer-house.com) is included in the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. "It was built in 1896 by the town founder, George Bauer, who used it as his family's home," hostess Bobbi Black said. "Later when it was a hospital, there were lots of babies delivered there." The Bauer house has received "Best Customer Service" marks three years in a row from the prestigious Arrington's Inn Traveler quarterly magazine.
If it’s a sunny day (and there are plenty of those even in winter) Highway 184 between Mancos and Dolores is one of my favorite stretches for road bicycling. It's not very hilly and you can get great views of Sleeping Ute (www.homestead.com/deewebs/ute). There is a nice, wide breakdown lane and there isn't much traffic.
FARMINGTON
The Adobe Bed and Breakfast and Silver River Spa Retreat (www.silveradobe.com) is tucked away in the southwest corner of Farmington, NM, on the cliffside bank of the San Juan River. "We serve Peach Clafouti French pudding, grind our own oats for oatmeal waffles and have fresh Farmington apples for breakfast," co-owner Diana Ohlson said. "The place is like a nature preserve and we have eagles, birds, foxes, Peregrine falcon, raccoons and deer on the property."
The adobe structure is a mixture of mud, dirt, clay and straw and there are massive wooden timbers. "We feel very happy to offer people a place with traditional northwestern New Mexico architecture," Ohlson added. David Beers, Ohlson's husband, is an anthropologist and between the two of them, they serve as a mini Chamber of Commerce and local historians for the area.
Johnny Carino's (505-325-0081) serves bread and oil with every meal. I've had the lasagna several times and I'm still trying to count the number of layers. Carino's also offers fast and convenient pick-up service. Call ahead, drive your car up to the entrance and a waiter greets you and runs back in to bring out your order.
Mountain bike on the Kinsey Trail (www.roadapplerally.com/trailmap). This trail stays dry all year-round. Access is the end of Foothills Drive.
Valentine's Day is a great occasion to try out some of these places but I recommend that you have more than one weekend away each year. You’ll be in big trouble if you save romantic surprises only for Valentine's Day.
Marc Witkes, Durango writer, is trying a new romantic getaway this month. He's trailrunning, bicycling, swimming and honeymooning with Cathy Tibbetts in Honolulu.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)