January is National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month at Keystone

With nearly two and a half feet of snow in recent weeks, and more on the way, Keystone ushers in 2015 with phenomenal conditions and a lineup of activities during January.  Plus, following the New Year and outside of the Martin Luther King Holiday Weekend, January is considered an “off-peak” month for skiers and riders; meaning great deals on lodging, and the perk of feeling like you have the mountain to yourself. Find out more after the jump.

Two Feet of New Snow Launches Winter Season in Gunnison-Crested Butte

With more than two feet of fluffy white snow falling over recent days, Gunnison-Crested Butte Valley is off to a momentous start to winter. Crested Butte Nordic Center is open with some of the best early season conditions on record, and Crested Butte Mountain Resort is gearing up to open next week in time for Thanksgiving. Here are several prime reasons to start enjoying winter now:

Free Skiing – No need to worry about having enough money to rent equipment, buy lunch or enjoy an après ski cocktail when the lift ticket for skiing and boarding is absolutely free, no strings attached, for Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s opening day on Nov. 26. Live music is planned at the slopeside Butte 66 throughout the day, providing a festive start to season.

All season long, Crested Butte Nordic will offer free skiing and ski gear for youth ages 17 and under, making cross-country skiing and snowshoeing attractive and affordable ways for families to enjoy mountain trails.

Power Up Ski Skills – Pig out on turkey and all the fixings, work off the calories and learn something new at Crested Butte Nordic’s annual Thanksgiving Training Camp on Nov. 27 – 29. All levels of cross-country skiers can attend with groups divided by experience and into classic and skate skiing disciplines. The camp kicks off with a refresher round robin clinic for classic skiers on Thanksgiving morning and continues with half- and full-day clinics on Nov. 28 and 29. Clinic instructors include Olympians Rebecca Dussault and Ingrid Butts.

Those who love the outdoors will appreciate “Summits of My Life – A Fine Line,” presented by Crested Butte Film Festival on Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. to benefit Crested Butte Nordic. On Nov. 29, the Thanksgiving Training Camp Party and Silent Auction at the Red Room features delicious fare, libations, music and dancing at 6 p.m.

Ski mountaineering continues to gain traction but how does one go about learning this unique sport? Crested Butte’s gOCB Professional Skimo Team is presenting a solution by offering the first-ever gO Skimo Camp on Dec. 13 – 14 at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Local world-class, professional athletes and coaches Bryan Wickenhauser, Brian Smith, Jari Kirkland, Jon Brown, Sari Anderson and Stevie Kremer will work with participants on uphill, downhill and transition skills on alpine touring (AT) gear, and two forums will focus on nutrition and performance, ski-specific core workout lessons, product development, beginner and advanced racing techniques and injury prevention tips. A skimo gear swap, yoga session, winter run, skimo race and social gatherings also are part of the weekend.

Get Your Race Face On - Of the three International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) sanctioned races in the United States this season, Crested Butte is thrilled to host two events. The first is the fifth annual Irwin Guides/Griggs Orthopedics ISMF Race on Dec. 6 in nearby Irwin, a former mining town near Crested Butte. Competitors in the race division should plan on 5,000 feet of elevation gain/loss over a 10-mile, three-loop race course while the recreation division features 3,500 feet of elevation gain/loss over 6.5 miles, which includes the first two loops of the race division course. An awards party is planned for 5 p.m. at Mountaineer Square Ballroom in Mt. Crested Butte, held in conjunction with the Crested Butte Avalanche Center Awareness Party.

The Mountain Store Citizens Race Series is competitive and fun for all ages and abilities with classic and skate ski races held on Saturday mornings at scenic locations within Crested Butte Nordic’s groomed trail network. Beginning with 5 and 10 kilometer lengths in early December, race distances increase up to 20 km leading up to the 29th annual Alley Loop Nordic Marathon on Feb. 7. Citizens Race dates are Dec. 13 and 20 and Jan. 10, 17 and 24.

The Gunnison-Crested Butte valley has the unique distinction of being one of the birthplaces of mountain biking and continues to push the envelope with a fat bike race series this winter that kicks off on Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. in Crested Butte’s Magic Meadows area near Peanut Lake. The series continues with a Jan. 3 race in Gunnison at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area and Feb. 6 in Crested Butte in conjunction with Alley Loop. Check Facebook for more details.

2013/14 Ski Season Noted as Best Year on Record for Colorado

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) announced recently at the association’s 51st Annual Meeting that statewide skier visits totaled an estimated 12.6 million for the 2013/14 ski season, thereby making it the best season on record in the state. This estimation shows Colorado being up more than 10 percent compared to last season and more than 8 percent compared to the five-year-average.

“Seeing our visitation punch through the 12.5 million level and best our prior mark demonstrates the vibrancy of Colorado’s ski industry and the passion of our resident and visiting skiers and snowboarders,” stated Melanie Mills, president & CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA. “With two consecutive years of growth, momentum is certainly in our favor as our resorts continue to set the industry standard in terms of snow quality, skier safety and guest service.”

Colorado resorts outperformed the ski industry nationally, which saw the Pacific regions heavily impacted by drought. Colorado resorts also bested the growth rate of 6.4 percent in the Rocky Mountain region of the U.S. where snow conditions were more comparably favorable.

“Owning 22 percent of the national skier market speaks volumes to the reputation of our state as the top ski destination. Visitors choose to come here because of what our resorts have to offer; superior skiing, easy access, resorts of every variety, and resort staff who provide unparalleled guest service,” said Mills.

Fresh Powder Marks the Beginning of March in Colorado Ski Country

The remarkable 2013-14 ski season in Colorado continued this weekend as Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts enjoyed another new round of snowfall. This most recent storm was widespread, blanketing the high country in fresh snow just in time for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy great conditions over the first weekend of March.

Since Thursday, CSCUSA resorts have enjoyed an average of 17 inches of new snow. Eighteen CSCUSA resorts enjoyed double-digit snow totals over the weekend, and five resorts enjoyed more than two feet of powder.

Mid-season Snowstorm Covers Colorado Ski Country in Deep, Dry Powder

The second half of Colorado’s skiing and snowboarding season started in style this weekend as all 21 Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts reported significant new snowfall. With an additional 3-6 inches of snow expected Monday, snowriders in Colorado are enjoying the best conditions in North America with the two historically snowiest months still to come.

Since Thursday, CSCUSA resorts have enjoyed an average of 22.5 inches of new snow, with more on the way. By the time this most recent storm dissipates later today, it will have dropped double-digit accumulation totals on 19 CSCUSA resorts, 2+ feet at 10 resorts, and 3+ feet at five resorts, leaving skiers and snowboarders with a pristine playground of powder.

This weekend’s storm traveled from the Pacific Ocean to the central mountains of Colorado and stalled at the continental divide, leaving snow totals that have to be seen to be believed. Monarch Mountain has received a foot or more of snow for four consecutive days, leaving 55 inches of new powder since last Thursday, and Arapahoe Basin has recorded 41 inches of new snow in the same time period. Crested Butte has welcomed 37 inches of new snow, and Loveland Ski Area and Eldora each saw 35 inches of fresh powder.

Stonewall Fitness: On Snowshoeing, Sochi, and the Superbowl!

By David Smith (The guy that usually kicks your butt at bootcamp or training :-D) 

So I want to let you know that we will NOT be having bootcamp on Saturday Feb 1st at 11am this weekend as a big group of us are heading up into the mountains for snowshoeing instead! We will meet around 930 at 2418 Champa St. and then carpool into the mountains where we will snowshoe up to Eudora Lake (with a stop at Lost Lake) by Nederland, Colorado. it's a 5 mile round trip hike. Pack a lunch cause we will eat at the lake. All you need is a good pair of snow pants and you can rent snowshoes at REI for $15 a day. Don't forget we are heading to the snowy mountains so bring gear for all possibilities of conditions. RSVP for the event here on FB https://www.facebook.com/events/287507704707212/?fref=ts

Also since we are not having bootcamp on Saturday AND the Superbowl is on Sunday Feb 2nd we will be hosting a Superbowl Bootcamp & BBQ/Party! The Broadcast is scheduled to start at around 420pm so we are going to get our fitness on at about 3. We will have bootcamp and the party at the same place which is the new facility Stonewall Fitness is based out of. The facility is called O2EA and is located at 2575 W. 8th Ave. Denver, CO 80204 (8th and I25). The party will be potluck style so bring some food to share and meat to grill, I will provide all the utensils and such. Invite your friends as well, most importantly, make sure you come! The bootcamp is open to all levels of fitness, if you can't participate still join us for the game! Here's the event for that on FB https://www.facebook.com/events/1430241717211160/?fref=ts

Lastly the following Friday February 7th we will also be hosting an Olympics Bootcamp & BBQ/Party, same kind of format as we're doing for Superbowl but for the Olympics! I would love it if you joined us for one event, the other or both! This event will also be at O2EA, the Bootcamp is at 6 and the Opening Ceremonies start around 7! Email me or call me at 720-232-1635 if you have any questions.https://www.facebook.com/events/438999019553702/?fref=ts

Oh yeah! All events are free! Just make sure you bring some food to share and your awesome self!

OutBoard 2014: Last Call for Virgins!

Last call for OutBoard Virgins! Never snowboarded before? Never skied before? Tomorrow, January 23rd, is your last chance to register for OutBoard Virgin Day 2014, coming up this Saturday, January 25th at Copper Mountain Colorado.



OutBoard Virgin Day is your chance to lose your cherry and learn to snowboard or ski, enjoy the mountains right in our back yard, and get to meet other fun OutBoard members. OutBoard Virgin Day is a fun filled day in the mountains starting with your lesson and continuing on through happy hour after the lifts stop turning. OutBoard is happy to be offering discounted pricing through our website, OutBoardVirginDay.com, on everything you need. For Virgins, OutBoard is offering a Learn-To-Ride/Ski Package which includes your lifts, lessons, and rentals for $117.

If you're not a Virgin, that's not a problem either. Come on up and ride the whole mountain once the Virgins start their classes in the morning. For those non-Virgins that just need lifts, lessons, or rentals, OutBoard is also offering discounts on those items Ala-carte on OutBoardVirginDay.com.

So don't wait, get the event schedule and complete details at OutBoardVirginDay.com and then reserve your spot at OutBoard Virgin Day 2014 today before registration closes at midnight, January 23rd.

Winter Adventures (Without Skis) in Colorado

Colorado is known around the world for its epic skiing and snowboarding and its 25 world-class ski resorts and areas. Yet, visitors who are looking to experience the other side of Colorado’s winter season will find countless other activities, from ice climbing and snowmobiling to snow biking and dog sledding.

After the jump is a sampling of the winter sports activities that can be enjoyed in Colorado. For additional information or to order a copy of the 2013 Official State Visitors Guide, visit www.colorado.com.

Snow Accumulation Coats Colorado Resorts

The recent storm that blanketed the state left Colorado Ski Country resorts with copious amounts of snow, and presented guests with much anticipated powder days. Skiers and snowboarders across the state were delighted with the effects of the storm, and took full advantage of Mother Nature’s generosity. Aspen and Winter Park each benefitted from more than a foot of snow, while a number of other resorts, such as Eldora, saw double digit totals deposited. The widespread precipitation allowed for more terrain to be opened throughout the state.

With the holiday season approaching, Colorado Ski Country now has 13 resorts open, and anticipates all resorts to be open by Christmas. Below is a resort-by-resort list of opening dates.

 

OutBoard 2012: Worlds Largest Gay and Lesbian Snowboarding Event Returns to Steamboat Springs!

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2012, as the event returns to Steamboat Springs, CO, March 27-April 1, 2012. Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel. OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the hill as well as creating a great environment to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations. “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

OutBoard was founded in 1995 as a learn-to-snowboard event. Over the years it has grown to be the largest gay and lesbian snowboarding event in the world and is inclusive of skiers. But it is more than just an event, the companion web site at www.outboard.org with over 3,000 members, is designed as an online community for the GLBT snowboarding community to find friends to ride with in their own area and post stories and pictures about their adventures.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2012 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org.

Get ready for OutBoard 2012!

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2012, as the event returns to Steamboat Springs, CO, March 27-April 1, 2012.

Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel.  OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the hill as well as creating a great environment to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.

 “The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations.  “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

This year’s event schedule is still being finalized, however OutBoard 2012 attendees can look forward 5 days of incredible snowboarding the original “Champagne Powder” on one of North America’s largest resorts boasting nearly 3000 acres of terrain over 6 peaks. as well as daily “Kickstart” breakfasts, group lunches at the Thunderhead Lodge, Après events at the Steamboat Grand’s giant hot tubs, private dinners in town and on the mountain, and of course the OutBoard closing party with a guest DJ.  OutBoard 2012’s host lodging property will once again be the Steamboat Grand just steps from the gondola and featuring slope side equipment check, in house dining, and some of the largest hot tubs you’ll ever see.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2012 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org. 

Get out and about with the Rocky Mountain Gay and Lesbian Sierrans

Join GLS for the first snowshoe outing of the winter season as the group visits beautiful Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The scenery is breathtaking, and so is the crisp winter air. Start the winter season with an easy 3.6-mile trip having an elevation gain of 600 feet but be prepared for cold and windy weather even this early in the season. Limited to 12 participants you will need to contact Bill at 303-530-3482 to sign up.

Photo from ProTrails.com.