Winter in the Rocky Region

by Jesse Speer

Winter means snow in the Rockies and snow means fun. Snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing in the lower valleys, winter mountaineering in the high country, downhill skiing ar Eldora and Winter Park, sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley. Access roads are kept open and provide the winter traveler with a panorama of the high mountains.

• Ski Downhill
• Ski Cross Country
• Snowshoe
• Sled, Tube
• Ice Skate
• Snowmobile
• Winter Hikes

In the Park, Aspenglen, Longs Peak, and Timber Crook campgrounds are open all year. Once the snows begin, Longs Peak and Timber Crook are not plowed, so you have to carry supplies to your campsite. None of the campgrounds has water in winter.

If you we going into the Park backcountry overnight, you will need a backcountry permit, available free at park headquarters, or the Kawuneeche Visitor Center. Some areas are closed to overnight camping, and the danger of avalanches frequently exists, so plan your trip carefully, checking with park rangers for the latest Information on the areas In which you plan to travel.

Never travel alone. Take extra supplies in case you are forced to bivouac overnight. Winter in the Rockies can mean sudden storms and subzero temperatures at any time.

Hypothermia, or loss of body heat through exposure, is a danger that can be encountered any time of the year. If anyone exhibits shivering, slurred speech, incoherence, stumbling, or drowsiness, get the person out of the wet, cold. and wind, and into shelter and dry, woolen clothing. The quickest way to warm the victim is to place the person in a dry sleeping bag with another person.

Winter Events

Sleigh Rides & Christmas Trees

Nov. 24-25: Sleigh Rides & Christmas Trees, horse-drawn rides into the woods to choose a pre-cut Christmas tree. Reservations required. Aspen Lodge. 970-577-3402

Lines into Shapes

Opening exhibit and reception for the Art Centers annual nationally juried exhibit and sale. All mediums are represented, with approximately 180 works of art. Cash prizes are awarded the night of the opening reception. Free, 5 pm, 09/19/08, Art Center of... [more]

Moraine Park Nature Walk

Enjoy an easy 3/4 mile stroll through the Moraine Park landscape with a National Park Ranger.Naturalist. Encounter the dynamic forces that created this valley and discover what lives here today. Meet at the Moraine Park Visitor Center 10 AM, 1 hour

Plein-Air Paining Without Fear

Rocky Mountain Nature Association Field Seminar... [more]

Movie

Call for current shows and times. Historic Park Theater (summer only), Estes Park. 970-;586-8904. Reel Mountain Theater, Estes Park. 970-586-4227.

Bands, Brats 'n Beer

Autumn Gold - A Festival of Bands, Brats 'n Beer - Hear great music and enjoy the treats. It's an annual event heralding golden sights and sounds from a series of bands. Performers and times to be announced. 10 am -... [more]

Holiday House Christmas Bazaar,

Nov. 24: Holiday House Christmas Bazaar, an annual event benefi ting the Estes Park Medical Center. 9 am - 3 pm

Write Here in the Rockies

Practice the art and craft of nature writing in an intimate setting near Rocky Mountain National Park. At this indepth workshop, you will refine your skills through drills, writing exercises, discussions of the craft of writing, examination of good writers, and group critique. This is an excellent opportunity... [more]

High Country Health

High Country Health & Medicine, an exhibit that examines the history of human health and medical practices in the Estes Valley, Estes Park Museum.

Planet Earth

Planet Earth is the topic for the Park's Fall Film Series. All programs begin at 7 pm in the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium. Nov. 10: Deserts, Nov. 17: Ice Worlds, Nov. 24: Shallow Seas

Tundra to Trees

Hike an ancient Ute trail that leads from alpine heights down through old growth forest. Meet at Milner Pass parking area to carpool for this moderate 4 mile hike. Bring warm clothing, rain gear, water, and snacks. 9 AM 4 hour hike

Western History and Heritage Weekend at Wind River

Learn about the colorful history of the Estes Valley in an atmosphere of rustic elegance, great accommodations, delicious food, and a wonderful setting for equestrian touring in Rocky Mountain National Park.Rocky Mountain Nature Association Field Seminar... [more]

The Elk Rut: High Country Romance

Elk are among the most commonly observed mammals in Rocky Mountain National Park but few people understand the social and sexual interactions occurring during the rut. Although elk are the most vocal deer species in North America, a majority of their communication is through body language. The seminar... [more]

Before Estes

Before Estes: Native Cultures of the Mountain Valley - Exhibit opening and reception. Discover the history of the native peoples of the Estes Valley. Sponsored by the Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation and the Town of Estes Park Free, Estes Park Museum, 970-586-6256,... [more]

Film Festival

3rd Annual Estes Park Film Festival - A showcase of new independent feature films, documentaries, and short films from around the country. 09/11/08 - 09/14/08, The Historic Park Theatre, 130 Moraine Ave, 970-231-2580, www.estesparkfilm.com... [more]

Fall Folk Festival

970.627.3372

Art Walk

local galleries 5-7:00 p.m.

Centennial Celebration Concert

Nov. 18: Centennial Celebration Concert featuring Barbara Barber and Friends performing an all-Bach violin concert. Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies. 3 pm

Park Movie

See the stunning 23 minute Park movie at the Beaver Meadows and Kawuneeche Visitor Centers during normal business hours. Spectacular aerial footage of the rugged high country of Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as wildlife and other park resources.

Historic Lodges Tour

Rocky Mountain National Park Historic Lodges & Homesteads Tour - Board our 14-passenger van and tour the sites of lodges and homesteads from the past in Rocky Mountain National Park. Ken Jessen will be our guide as we begin at the Fall River Inn Site and travel to... [more]

Holzwarth Historic Site

Buildings are open 10 AM - 4 PM daily. Discuss early settlement with staff. This is a great family activity! 10 AM - 4 PM Drop-in tour

Nature's Tranquility

Mel Wilson shares his wildlife and nature photographyof Rocky Mountain Natl. Park as well as photographs of many other breathtaking locations throughout America. Art Center of Estes Park, 517 Big Thompson Ave., 5 pm, 7 pm, 970-586-5882 (Opening exhibit and reception Nov 21)

Here Come the Beetles!

Pine bark beetles are rapidly transforming our forests. Learn what this means for all species who share Rocky Mountain National Park. Meet at the Fall River Visitor Center. 2:30 PM 20-30 minute talk. Wheelchair access.

Season of Change

We will look among the last golden leaves and wildflowers; we will listen among the elk bugling and pikas squeaking; and we will watch the insects and birds. Somewhere in all this looking, listening, and watching we will discover in the story of living the answers for the... [more]

Catch the Glow

Catch the Glow Holiday Celebration & Evening Parade to kick off the holiday season. Visits with Santa, hay rides, pony rides, carolers, costumed characters and an early-evening lighted parade, all activities are free. Downtown Estes Park, activities begin at Noon; the parade starts at 5:30 pm, 970-577-9900 or 800-44-ESTES

Painting the Parks

7th Annual Estes Park Plein Air 2008-Painting the Parks, Estes Park, CO, beauty and inspiration go hand-in-hand when painters come to the Estes Valley and the Northern Rockies to paint the parks this summer. Artists from across the nation to come together to paint on-location from Aug. 9 through 22,... [more]

Skins & Things

Examine the skins, skulls, antlers, teeth and bones of park mammals. Drop in anytime during the program. Meet at Kawuneeche Visitor Center, 3 PM 40 minute activity. Wheelchair access.

Free park movie

See the stunning 23 minute park movie at the Beaver Meadows (en espanol) and Kawuneeche Visitor Centers during normal business hours. Spectacular aerial footage of the rugged high country of Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as wildlife and other park resources.

September Specials

Check out the special offers that Estes Park businesses have listed for this month.

Beaver Meadows Evening Program

Enjoy a wide variety of informative and entertaining programs at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. Science Thursday: Bears, glaciers, deer: researchers are learning more each day about this park. A different researcher each Thurs. Artist-in-the-Park: The park, through the eyes of a different creative artist each Tues.... [more]

Why Do Fools Fall in Love?

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre, Grand Lake at 8 pm. This nostalgic show mixes drama, comedy, and 60s love songs creating a lighthearted and engaging mix. Four girlfriends gather to celebrate the upcoming wedding of one of their own. As the bachelorette party picks up steam, the girls discover more... [more]

The Cantabile Singers

Nov. 11: Estes Park Music Festival presents The Cantabile Singers, an acclaimed vocal ensemble. Stanley Hotel. 2 pm

Oklahoma!

8 pm at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre, Grand Lake. After 34 years, Rodgers and Hammerstein's joyous celebration of the American spirit returns to RMRT's stage! A heartwarming romance, a jubilant comedy, and a showcase for some of the most beautiful songs ever written for the stage, this time honored... [more]

Beagle Dog Show

Rocky Mountain Beagle Club Specialty Dog Show - features beagles only, with participants from all over the United States. Event will include obedience, agility, rally, and conformation judging. Vendors will have dog-related items for sale, and the event is open to the general public.... [more]

Animal Tracking

Tracking is a basic naturalist's skill that will greatly expand your experience, knowledge and understanding of nature. In this fun and intensive workshop, participants will learn a systematic method for identifying tracks and using tracks to better understand animal behavior and ecology. Indoor sessions will focus on mastering... [more]

All About Lightning

Learn why lightning can be a hair-raising experience and find out how to minimize your risk of being struck by lightning. Meet at the Alpine Visitor Center. 2 pm, 30 minute talk Wheelchair access.

Studio Tour

3rd Annual Estes Park Studio Tour - an opportunity for the public to visit artists in their studios, watch artists as they work and ask questions, and to be able to experience the art process in the artists habitat. Free,... [more]

Geology Rocks!

Love the scenic views in the park? Come take a closer look at what is rocking at Rocky and the forces behind the park. Meet at the Moraine Park Museum. 2 PM, 30 minutes. Wheelchair access.

Enchanting Wearable Art

Opening exhibit and reception with whimsical, wire wrap/ bead and fossil jewelry by Alice League and the colorful creations of life-long fiber and knitwear artist, Janice Kay. Art Center of Estes Park, 517 Big Thompson Ave., 5 pm, 7 pm, 970-586-5882... [more]

Holiday Art Walk

12th Annual Holiday Art Walk, tourof the galleries and artist studios throughout the area. Tourmaps are available at the Cultural Arts Council at 304 E Elkhorn Ave., Visitors Centers, and participatinggalleries. 10 am - 5 pm, 970-586-9203, www.EstesArts.com Nov. 28-29

Lily Lake Wildflower Walk

Take time to stop and smell the roses, and enjoy learning about the variety of flowers blooming this season. Meet at the Lily Lake parking lot for this easy walk.3 PM 1.5 hour walk. Handicap access/

Bear Lake Stroll

Enjoy an easy walk around a lovely subalpine lake and learn about the natural and human forces that have shaped this landscape. Meet at Bear Lake. 2 PM 1-1.5 hours.

Fine Arts & Crafts Festival

34th annual juried show featuring 95 artists from across the country. Festival includes work selected as the best of all entries. Wearable art, sculpture, photography, jewelry, folk art, glass, wood, leather, metal, ceramics, oil, pencil drawings and watercolor paintings. Sponsored by the Fine Arts Guild of... [more]

Mushrooms

Rocky Mountain Nature Association Field Seminar... [more]

Museum exhibits

Museum exhibits at the Estes Park Museum, 200 4th Street. 970-586-6256

Amazing Beavers

Beavers drastically change their environment, and they have wonderful adaptations to do so. To see their work first hand, meet at Sprague Lake parking lot. 1:30 PM 1 hour talk. Wheelchair access.

Photographing Elk and Aspen

Autumn is a truly magical time to be in the high country. This seminar will focus on two seasonal events that will offer photographers an outstanding opportunity to capture memorable moments on film - fall colors and bugling elk. Lectures, fieldwork, and critiques will encompass this photographic experience... [more]

Autumn Art Walk

Autumn Art Walk & Studio Tour - A self-guided tour of galleries and artist studios throughout area. Tour directories available at the Cultural Arts Council at 304 E Elkhorn Ave, visitors centers, and participating artist studios. Free, 10 am, 09/13/08 - 09/14/08, Area art galleries,... [more]

November Specials

Check out the special offers that Estes Park businesses have listed for this month.

Wildlife Photography

Truly great wildlife images "connect" with a viewer and elicit a variety of emotional reactions - humor, joy, excitement, reverence, apprehension, a sense of wonder, and much more. Creating a wildlife photograph with the power to "connect" is the result of a unique combination of skills, including knowledge... [more]

October Specials

Check out the special offers that Estes Park businesses have listed for this month.

Writing in the Woods

Rocky Mountain Nature Association Field Seminar... [more]

Native Lifestyles

Explore what drew prehistoric peoples, and later Ute and Arapaho, to the high country. Meet at the Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead 9 AM 1.5 hour walk

Lubeck's Rocky Mountains

L.Lawrence Lubeck's Rocky Mountains exhibit examining the painter's large format oils of the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park Museum.

Seeing Red!

What's killing the pine trees? Walk through a lodgepole forest to discover the mighty impact of a tiny beetle. Meet at the Onahu Trailhead. 1 hour walk. 10:30 AM on Wednesday & Thursday. 2:30 PM on Monday & Saturday.... [more]

Open House & BBQ

Fire Prevention Week - 4:00 p..m. - 970 627-8428

Estes Park Music Festival

Nov. 18: Estes Park Music Festival presents Hsing-ay-Hsu on piano.

Art Walk

10th Summer Art Walk - Self guided tour of the galleries and artist studios throughout the area. Tour maps are available at the Cultural Arts Council at 304 E Elkhorn Ave., Visitors Centers, and participating artist studios. Through Labor Day. Free, 10 am - 5 pm daily , Art... [more]

Riverside Rhythms

Riverside Rhythms, a free musical entertainment series in Riverside Plaza on East Riverside Drive just a half-block south of Elkhorn Avenue. Free, 3 pm, Riverside Plaza, East Riverside Dr., 970-577-9900 or 800-44 ESTES... [more]

Night in Morocco

6:00 p.m.

The Colorado: Secrets at the Source

This film tells the magnificent story of the Colorado River, which flows through some of America's most dramatic high country and canyon lands. Daily at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center. 1:15 PM 50 minute film

Running of the Bulls

A 3.75 mile run/walk around Lake Estes to benefit Partners Mentoring Youth. 10:00 am, 09/20/08, Lake Estes Marina, 1700 Big Thompson Ave. Register at www.active.com. Pre-registration fees are $20 per person and $15... [more]

Inside the Fence

What's inside the fence in Horseshoe Park; how is it connected to the Lawn Lake Flood? See wetland restoration in action. Mosquito repellent and closed-toe shoes recommended. Meet a Park Ranger/Naturalist at the West Alluvial Fan parking lot. Mondays at 9:30 AM. Sundays and Wednesdays at 2:30 PM. 1- 1.5... [more]

Cheley Camp Tour

Estes Park was a sleepy mountain town in 1921 when Frank Cheley founded Cheley Colorado Camps as the Bear Lake Trail School at Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Just 24 campers attended that first year. By 1926, the camp grew to accommodate 60 boys who swam... [more]

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