Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa opens new Zip Line Tour.

The 5-line tour features 3,900’ and speeds up to 40 mph

TABERNASH, Colo., May 18, 2012…Mixing adventure, historical overviews and adrenaline pumping fun, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa opens its new High Lonesome Zip Line Tour on Sat., May 26, 2012.

Located 65 miles west of Denver and 15 minutes west of Winter Park Resort, the High Lonesome Zip Line Tour is only one of a half-dozen in Colorado.  Consisting of five lines, ranging in length from 370 ft to 1600 ft and heights of 28 ft to 78 ft, the full tour includes 3,900 ft of awe-inspiring views and short hiking journeys that include stories and overviews of the Ranch’s Western and Nordic history.

“We felt the zip line tour was an excellent addition to the other outdoor, recreation and wilderness experiences available at the resort,” said VP/GM Sean Damery. “It gives guests and day visitors a unique view of the expansiveness of the property – and its history — in a thrilling way.”

Zip Line Details:

The Zip Line Tour consists of 5 zip lines:

Zip 1 –  “The Wickiup Line”, 370ft long, 28ft high, rider will reach speeds of 18mph

Zip 2 – “The Stagecoach Line”, 500ft long, 47ft high, rider will reach speeds of 21mph

Zip 3 – “The Take-No-Prisoners Line”, 540ft long, 41ft high, rider will reach speeds of 23mph

Zip 4 – “The Nordic Line”, 632ft long, 30ft high, rider will reach speeds of 22mph

Zip 5 – “The High Lonesome Line”, 1600ft long, 78ft high, rider will reach speeds of 40mph

Media Note: Story lines for each Zip Line are available by request.

Available Times:

Full Line Tour:  9 am and 1 pm, daily.  The full tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

One Zip Line Tour (High Lonesome Line): 4:30 pm, daily. The one-line tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours

Available Dates:

Mid-May to October, weather dependent

Cost:

Full Tour:  $90/person, minimum of 3 riders required

One Zip Line Tour:  $35/person, minimum of 5 riders required

What’s included:

The Full Tour is structured as a journey through history.  Each participant will ride 5 zip lines with small land-based hikes in between. At each zip the rider will learn something about the history of the land and area. The tour includes transportation to and from the site and all necessary equipment, including helmet and harness and a safety briefing prior to the start.

Age/weight/fitness requirements:

No experience is required.

All participants must weigh between 75 and 275 pounds, regardless of age.

A minimum level of fitness is needed to do the short hikes in between each zip line and all participants must fill out a health form and sign or have a parent/guardian sign a waiver.

One adult required for every two children.

All tours include two trained guides.

Reservations:

Zip Line tours require 24-hour advanced reservations and can be made by calling 970-726-8231. For lodging and other overnight packages, event, spa and recreation information and reservations, visit www.devilsthumbranch.com or call 970-726-5632.  Devil’s Thumb Ranch is located 65 miles west of Denver and 15 minutes west of Winter Park Resort, off US Hwy 40 and County Road 83, at 3530 County Road 83, Tabernash, CO 80478.

About Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa:

Easy to reach from Denver (65 miles west) and seemingly a million miles away nestled among 6,000 acres of Colorado wilderness is Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa, ranked among the top eco-friendly hotels in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine and the International Conservancy.  Here, modern-day, low tech indulgences are met with a kind and thoughtful heart for the environment and the area’s history, which pays tribute to the Arapahoe and Ute Native American Tribes, as well as western cowboy heritage and Nordic sports.

A 52-room lodge, 16 ridge-top log cabins, 18,000 sq. ft. Ranch Creek Spa, Cabin Creek Stables, along with two restaurants, Heck’s and Ranch House Restaurant  & Saloon, and a full-service retail, rental shop and Activities Center comprise the facilities at this year round ranch resort, spa, corporate retreat and weddings destination.

Dining is sustainably focused and local whenever possible. From contemporary American Ranch fare at Heck’s Tavern in the Main Lodge to the more refined “from the earth and sea” and ever-changing menu at Ranch House Restaurant & Saloon, diners have a bounty to choose from after a well-earned day recreating – or just relaxing and letting the day’s events fall into place without much planning, fussing or juggling of the usual daily routine.

# # #

Media Contact:

Holly Johnson, Imagica Communications

941.350.9615 / holly@imagica.us

Media Note: Photography, B-Roll and historical story lines for each Zip Line are available by request.

Need more incentive to play in Winter Park-Fraser Valley this summer? The first 250 people who book two nights lodging through the Winter Park Play Free promotion will receive $50 on the Winter Park-Fraser Valley Key Card to shop, dine and explore. Offer good May 1-October 31, 2012 (some restrictions apply).

• Rafting – The winding Colorado River and the exhilarating Clear Creek offer exciting rafting trips for the whole family. Miles of river make finding the right pace easy with mild and moderate to expert-level whitewater. Customize by choosing between a half-day, full-day or overnight outing. Transportation to and from the river is available, along with other necessities and amenities. For first-timers not sure about putting all their eggs in one raft, local outfitters enable riders to add a picnic, horseback ride, ATV tour and more before or after a splash down the river.

• Kayaking – For the more independent thrill-seekers, solo or tandem kayaking brings an extra challenge to experiencing the river. Standard and inflatable kayaks are ready for a scenic float or a heart-pumping race down the majestic Colorado waters. Kayakers hungry for more action can plan additional out-of-water activities through the local rafting and kayaking companies.

• Stand Up Paddling – Winter Park-Fraser Valley has the newest way to play on the water with stand up paddling. Requiring minimal gear and appropriate for kids as young as three, this fast-growing sport is a fun and easy way to explore the river, no waves necessary. It’s also a great cross-training workout for skiers and snowboarders visiting this slope-side area in the off-season. Whether it’s discovering the serenity of walking on water or toeing the edge during a yoga-paddleboard session, there are many ways to play.

• Fishing – Winter Park-Fraser Valley harbors some of the most fishable water in the state. It’s the spot to be this summer to catch a Colorado trout or fine-tune the art of fly-fishing. Every need from guides to boats and equipment are on hand at local fishing shops. Plus, special locations tailored to kids and the disabled make this summer sport fun for all.

Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce

The Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit Colorado corporation created to help further and maintain responsible growth in the Winter Park-Fraser Valley area, located in the Rocky Mountains just 65 miles west of Denver.

Colorado’s ‘Run the Ranches’ Trail Running Series Announces 2012 Dates

– Grand County hosts short-, long-distance runs to benefit Headwaters Trails Alliance —

Granby, Colo. – The third annual “Run the Ranches” trail running series will take place in Grand County, Colo., on Sept. 16, Sept. 30 and Oct 14.

The series features trail runs at three different scenic ranches. Each ranch and its community in the county – located 70 miles west of Denver – will host a short run (3-5 miles) and a longer run (7-10 miles).

The trail series benefits Headwaters Trails Alliance, a nonprofit advocacy organization for trails in Grand County. The proceeds will help the alliance provide high-quality trails linking towns and recreational areas, with secondary trail systems connecting historical, cultural and recreational sites near the communities of Grand County.

All races begin at 10 a.m., with packet pick-up and late registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. the day of the race. Pre-registration fee is $20/adult for each race, or $10 for children age 6-12 (free for ages 5 and under). A late fee of $10/person will be added to any registration fee after 11:59 a.m. on the Saturday before each race. Fees include post-race refreshments and awards for top finishers. A commemorative performance shirt is available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration is available at www.RunReg.com or at www.headwaterstrails.org/events.

Ranch and run specifics, and dates, are as follows. Volunteers will man all race courses.

Sunday, Sept. 16 – Devil’s Thumb Ranch

The 5,000-acre Devil’s Thumb Ranch is an award-winning, environmentally friendly year-round ranch resort and spa offering rustically upscale accommodations, fine dining and an array of outdoor and wilderness recreation activities. Devil’s Thumb has received the Editor’s Choice Award for Best Green Facility from Colorado Meetings + Events Magazine. Runners can choose a 3-mile or 7.5-mile run through the fall foliage of the Ranch Creek Valley.

Sunday, Sept. 30 – Granby Ranch

Spanning 5,000 acres of high alpine landscape, Granby Ranchfeatures an expansive network of trails, a 450-acre wildlife conservation area, hundreds of acres of open space, miles of forestland, and the Fraser River corridor. Runners can choose a 2.4-mile or 7.6-mile run.

Sunday, Oct. 14 – C Lazy U Ranch

Nestled in a private valley with nearly 8,600 acres of wilderness and miles of private stream, the upscale, family-style ranch is known for its rustic elegance, legendary cuisine and signature “5-Spur Service.” Runners can choose a 5-mile or 9.5-mile run.

Grand County, Colo. (www.VisitGrandCounty.com)

Located 67 miles west of Denver, Grand County is home to wide-open spaces, breathtaking mountain scenery and authentic old-west towns. Outdoor recreational activities include golf, boating, fishing, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting and horseback riding.

The area features more than 600 miles of mapped and marked trails, one national park, one national forest, three wilderness areas, two national scenic byways, two major ski resorts, four world-class dude ranches and four mountain golf courses. Grand County’s extensive water network includes Colorado’s largest natural lake, 1,000 miles of streams, 1,000 acres of high-mountain lakes and 11,000 acres of reservoirs.

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Devil’s Thumb Ranch’s 3-day Wrangler Camps  offer authentic western lifestyle experiences

TABERNASH, Colo., May 3, 2012…Cowboy/Cowgirl-wannabees can now live the life at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa this summer, where three-day wrangler camps in June, July and August offer the full gamut of ranch living.  Professional wranglers teach horsemanship and riding skills and guide outdoor experiences that transpose guests into a different place and time.

Open to ages 12 and up and well suited for individuals, couples or families as a way to get away, recharge and try something new, participants experience a way of life before the days of text messaging, video games, cell phones and other modern day distractions.  The Wrangler Camps showcase a lifestyle where a hard day’s work means corralling and feeding the horses, fishing for the evening’s dinner and doing one’s own handiwork. Limited to 8 guests per camp, everyone gets a lot of personal attention and instruction.

It’s not all work, however, with the Ranch’s professional staff providing plenty of pampering options. Special lodging packages can make this a vacation for all, whether it’s the kids or the entire family who get wrangler-life engaged.  A variety of ala carte outdoor recreation and spa treatment options include hiking and mountain biking to fly-fishing and zip-line outings, or on the more leisurely side, nature-based spa treatments, aromatherapy rooms, and a heated outdoor pool and patio with lounge chairs and outdoor dining options means there’s something for everyone from dawn through nightfall.  Overnight and day guests can also partake in ½ or full day horseback rides, feed rides and BBQs on an individual basis.

2012 Wrangler Camp details:

When:

June 4-7

July 2-5

Aug. 6-9

Cost:

$485/person inclusive of camp program (outlined below)

Lodging discount available for camp guests

Meals, additional activities, spa treatments and gratuities are additional

Ages:

Open to ages 12 and up on an individual, couple or family/group basis

Camper to staff ratio:

4:1, maximum of 8 guests per camp

Three-Days of Wrangler Life (Schedule):

Monday

Afternoon Arrival & Check-In

5 to 6:30 Wagon ride and camp orientation, dinner at Heck’s in the Main Lodge (billed separately)

Tuesday

Breakfast on own at Heck’s or Hallowed Grounds Coffee Shop

9 to noon – Horsemanship session including introductions, catching, haltering, grooming, saddling, and groundwork

Noon to 1:30 – Lunch break

1:30 to 4 – Continue horsemanship session with additional groundwork and riding introductions,  un-tack and turnout for the day

4 pm on — Free time for relaxing around the pool, drinks, game room, movie, and dinner on own

Wednesday

9 to noon — Catch, groom, and saddle mount for a ½ day trail ride

Noon to 1:30 — Lunch break

1:30 to 4 — Time to cowboy or girl up, including gathering cattle for team penning in the arena, un-tack and turnout for the day.  Photographer available all afternoon (additional fees apply)

4 to 6 — Team driving demonstration and hands-on experience or try hand at roping (not on horseback)

6 pm on – Free time for relaxing around the pool, drinks, game room, movie, and dinner on  own

Thursday

9 to noon – Catch, groom, and saddle for the farewell, half-day ride with a trail adventure course to end the camp.

Noon to 1 pm- Late check-out followed by lunch break

About Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa

Easy to reach from Denver (65 miles west) and seemingly a million miles away nestled among 6,000 acres of Colorado wilderness is Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa, ranked among the top eco-friendly hotels in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine and the International Conservancy.  Here, modern-day, low tech indulgences are met with a kind and thoughtful heart for the environment and the area’s history, which pays tribute to the Arapahoe and Ute Native American Tribes, as well as western cowboy heritage and Nordic sports.

A 52-room lodge, 16 ridge-top log cabins, 18,000 sq. ft. Ranch Creek Spa, Cabin Creek Stables, along with two restaurants, Heck’s and Ranch House Restaurant  & Saloon, and a full-service retail, rental shop and Activities Center comprise the facilities at this year round ranch resort, spa, corporate retreat and weddings destination.

Dining is sustainably focused and local whenever possible. From contemporary American Ranch fare at Heck’s Tavern in the Main Lodge to the more refined “from the earth and sea” and ever-changing menu at Ranch House Restaurant & Saloon, diners have a bounty to choose from after a well-earned day recreating – or just relaxing and letting the day’s events fall into place without much planning, fussing or juggling of the usual daily routine.

Reservations & Information

Located at 3530 County Road 83, Tabernash, CO 80478, 65 miles west of Denver via I-70 and US Hwy 40 and 15 minutes west of Winter Park.  Advanced reservations are required for the Wrangler Camps and subject to availability, which can be made by calling 970-726-5632 or on-line inquiries at www.devilsthumbranch.com.

# # #

Media Contact:

Holly Johnson, Imagica Communications

941.350.9615 / holly@imagica.us

TABERNASH, Colo., May 3, 2012…Coming to the culinary aid of meeting planners looking for something unique to offer attendees as part of a corporate, staff or industry retreat, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s new Chef Demonstration Cooking Classes provide an entertaining and delicious option for groups up to 70 people.

Created by Executive Chef Evan Treadwell, a pioneer in the locally sourced food movement, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s new Chef Demonstration Classes for groups showcase the Ranch’s culinary team.  Guests get to sip wine and be entertained while watching chefs create the evening’s repast, who also share anecdotes, cooking tips and recipes and answer questions. The Chef Demonstration Classes can be tailored for cocktail receptions to multi-course meals with wine pairings.

The Demonstrations are held in the Ranch’s new Yager House, a welcoming facility that combines a cabin-in-the-wilderness charm with modern-day finishes and technology including a specially appointed demonstration kitchen, dining and living room areas.  The lively demonstrations are followed by a reception or meal with cocktails or wine pairings. Additional options for participants include a recipe book and Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa signature chef’s apron.

Cost:

Varies by size and scope of class and menu choices, which can be customized to the needs of each group.

Location & Information:

Located 65 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Winter Park Ski Resort off US Hwy 41 and County Road 83 at 3530 County Road 83, Tabernash, CO 80478.  For more information, to make reservations or inquire about lodging and other spa, dining and recreational options, visit www.devilsthumbranch.com or call 800-933-4339 or 970-726-5632.

About Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa:

Recognized worldwide for its environmental and historic preservation programs, which have been recognized by Travel + Leisure, Conservation International, Sunset, Mountain Living, Colorado Meetings & Events magazine, Wine Spectator and Away.com as among the best for its eco-friendly accommodations, green meetings facilities, conservation programs and wine list, Devil’s Thumb Ranch exudes an appealing array of options to accommodate groups from 10-200.

Located 65 miles from Denver and 10 miles from Winter Park, Colo., this 6,000-acre resort features secluded cabins with EPA approved low-emission fireplaces and kitchen facilities, a guest lodge built in the style of National Park Lodges, two restaurants, 100+ Km Nordic trail system for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, a professional horsemanship program and stables for trail riding, skill training and feed rides as well as hiking, mountain biking, fly-fishing, zipline adventure and a nature-based, restorative spa featuring massage, facials, body wraps, soaks and more.

# # #

Media Contact:

Holly Johnson, Imagica Communications

941.350.9615 / holly@imagica.us

Winter Park, COLO., (May, 1 2012) – Trestle Bike Park at Winter Park Resort and Specialized announce a new partnership in the 2013 summer season. Specialized, a premier mountain bike manufacturer will be the official bike partner of the fastest growing mountain bike park in North America, Winter Park Resort’s Trestle Bike Park.

“Our partnership with Specialized is the start of something great.  Their vision of a world-class bike park program is in lock step with ours – to provide the highest possible equipment, trails, events and programs to our guests. When all those components come together, the experience is unbeatable,” said Bob Holme, Terrain Park, Bike Park, and Youth Marketing Manager at Winter Park Resort.

With the addition of 100 brand new Specialized Status II bikes equipped with Marzocchi Suspension, a fleet of 28 new Demo 8 downhill bikes, plus the Specialized cross country test center featuring 20 of the latest Stumpjumpers and Epics, the Trestle Bike Park Shop’s bike park rental fleet will remain the largest in the United States. This huge selection of bikes will provide guests the best experience on the great trails at Trestle Bike Park. Specialized products will be available at Trestle Bike Park Shop located in The Village at Winter Park.

“Winter Park Resort and Trestle Bike Park are proud and excited to be able to offer our guests the biggest selection of Specialized test bikes in the United States. These Specialized bikes will allow our patrons a downhill, freeride, and cross-country experience unlike anything else,” said Paul Mutch, Director of Rental/Retail at Winter Park Resort. “Specialized has never done anything like this with a bike park before, and we are pleased that they are just as confident as we are in this partnerships ability to provide a standard in the Colorado mountain biking experience.”

Specialized is the global leader in the design and manufacturing of high performance, technologically advanced bicycles, components, and cycling apparel for world champion riders and cycling enthusiasts. Founded in 1945 and headquartered in Morgan Hill, California, Specialized is a global company with offices around the world.

Trestle Bike Park is excited to add Specialized to its list of great partners including Kali, Fox, Marzocchi, Oakley, Teva and Maxxis.

For additional information on Trestle Bike Park, contact the Winter Park Guest Services team atwww.trestlebikepark.com or (970) 726-1564.

For all media inquiries, contact Rachel Anderson, communications coordinator,RaAnderson@winterparkresort.com or (303) 316-1579.

TABERNASH, Colo., May 1, 2012…Culinary and craft beer enthusiasts as well as group meeting planners hankering for dining entertainment beyond the norm have new-found options with Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spas new Chef Demonstration Dinners for guests and groups as well as a quarterly Brewmaster Dinner Series.

Located 65 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Winter Park Resort, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa has earned due accolades for its environmental and historic preservation programs, which have been recognized by Travel + Leisure, Conservation International, Sunset magazine, Mountain Living magazine and Away.com as among the best for its eco-friendly lodging, programs and conservation programs.

Headed by Executive Chef Evan Treadwell, who brings his culinary ingenuity and passion for sourcing and using local and sustainable products whenever possible, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s new Chef Demonstration Dinners and Brewmaster Dining Series continue and expand upon this mission to involve and engage guests in delicious and entertaining ways.

2012 Culinary Events & Programs include:

Chef Demonstration Dinners

Held in the Yager House, this intimate special events facility exudes a cabin-in-the-wilderness kind of charm with modern-day finishes and technology that includes a specially appointed cooking/demonstration kitchen and dining and living room areas.  Guests enjoy a glass of wine while being entertained by Chef Evan as he shares his inside secrets, prepping and cooking tips, recipes and anecdotes.  The lively evenings include a demonstration cooking class followed by a three-course dinner of what was being prepared, recipe book, Devil’s Thumb Ranch signature chef’s apron and wine pairings.

Cost:

$85/person is inclusive of cooking demonstration, three-course meal with wine pairings, apron and recipe book.  Class size is limited and advanced reservations are required and are encouraged to be made well in advance.

Times:

Cooking Demos run from 5:30 to 7:30 followed by three-course dinner and wine pairings with the evening ending around 9:30 pm.

Continued…

2012 Devil’s Thumb Ranch Chef Demonstration Dinner Dates & Themes:

May 24 – Grill Sargeant

June 28 – From the Garden & Farmer’s Market

Sept. 27 – Fall Feast

Oct. 25 – Pairing Beer

Nov. 15 – Holiday Favorites

Group Chef Demonstration Dinners

Coming to the culinary aid of meeting planners looking for something unique to offer attendees as part of a corporate, staff or industry retreat, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s new Chef Demonstration Dinners provides an entertaining and delicious option for groups from 10 to 70 people.

Created by Executive Chef Evan Treadwell, a pioneer in the locally sourced food movement, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s new Group Chef Demonstration Dinners showcase the Ranch’s culinary team.  The lively and engaging demonstrations keep guests entertained as dishes are presented and prepared. Customized to the interests, tastes and budget of the group these can range from more informal cocktail receptions and small plates to multi-course dinners with wine pairings.  Additional options for participants include a recipe book and Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa signature chef’s apron.

Cost:

Varies by size and scope of class and menu choices, which can be customized to the needs of each group.

Brewmaster Dinner Series

Explore the joys of craft beer pairings with specially created, multi-course menus that transform a meal into a memorable dining experience at the 2012 Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa’s Brewmaster Dinner Series.  Executive Chef Evan Treadwell and his culinary team coordinate with specially selected breweries and their brewmaster to customize menus that showcase each beer’s qualities and then invite them to join in at their respective dinner to share their insights, ingredients and processes with guests.

Time:

Seatings run from 6 to 9 pm and reservations are recommended.

Upcoming Brewmaster Dinners (brewery partners and costs TBA)

Oct. 5 – Oktoberfest

Dec. 14 – Winterfest

James Beard Foundation Dinner at Devil’s Thumb Ranch

In honor of the renowned foundation that works to celebrate, nurture and preserve America’s diverse culinary heritage and future, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Executive Chef Evan Treadwell joins many other prominent and talented chefs to host a special James Beard Foundation dinner at the Ranch.

Date:

Sat., Dec. 8, 2012, Time TBA

Cost:

$200/person or $150/person for James Beard Foundation members

Reservations for culinary & dining events:

Advanced reservations are required for Chef & Group Demonstration Dinners and recommended for the Brewmaster Dinners, which can be made by calling 970-726-5632.

Location & Information:

Located 65 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Winter Park Ski Resort off US Hwy 41 and County Road 83 at 3530 County Road 83, Tabernash, CO 80478.  For more information, to make reservations or inquire about lodging and other spa, dining and recreational options, visit www.devilsthumbranch.com or call 970-726-5632.

About Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa:

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa is a year round, eco-friendly and award-winning 6,000-acre guest ranch resort, spa and corporate retreat, with full-service meeting and special event space for 10-200 people.  The Ranch has been recognized and honored worldwide for its environmentally friendly remodeling and restoration programs, commitment to historic preservation, green meeting facilities, sustainable and locally focused dining and Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.

The Ranch offers secluded cabins with EPA approved low-emission fireplaces and kitchen facilities, a guest lodge built in the style of National Park Lodges, two restaurants, 100+ Km Nordic trail system for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, a professional horsemanship program and stables for trail riding, skill training and feed rides as well as hiking, mountain biking, fly-fishing and a nature-based, restorative spa featuring massage, facials, body wraps, soaks and more.

# # #

Media Contact:

Holly Johnson, Imagica Communications

941.350.9615 / holly@imagica.us

Winter Park Jazz Festival

Winter Park-Fraser Valley Announces Summer Festival Schedule
–From bikes and blues to jazz and adrenaline junkies – there is an event nearly every weekend of the summer! –

Winter Park-Fraser Valley, Colo. – Winter Park-Fraser Valley today announced its signature events line-up. The area – nicknamed Mountain Bike Capital USA^TM for its 600-plus miles of mountain bike trails – features a number of biking and running events, as well as musical celebrations and off-beat gatherings. Visit the online calendar for a complete list of events in Winter Park-Fraser Valley.

Blues from the Top 10 – Presented by The Grand County Blues Society – June 29-July 1

This fun-filled festival turns Winter Park-Fraser Valley into the best blues bar in the country. The line-up includes Dana Fuchs, Samantha Fish Band, Shaun Murphy and Ryan McGarvey, just to name a few. Tickets start at $20.

Grand Park Run for Independence – June 30

This annual five-mile fun run/walk/roll/bike event traces the Fraser River Trail from Winter Park Resort to Grand Park in Fraser. After this event for all ages and abilities that benefits the Scott Hughes Foundation and Children’s Hospital, participants celebrate at the finish line with a number of fun-filled activities and live music.

United States Air Force Band, A Celebration of Freedom – July 2
This concert at Hideaway Park is a tribute to honor those who have served, as well as an inspirational way to kick off the July Fourth celebrations in Winter Park.

Lance Gutersohn 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks – July 4
From late afternoon until evening the Fraser Sports Complex bustles with family activities ranging from sporting games to kids activities, a community picnic and live music by Under a Blood Red Sky. Carnival games, face painting and, of course, a fireworks display add to the festivities.

Winter Park SolShine Music Festival – July 14
This free festival features national, regional and local live music including The Samples, Little Feat and additional special musical guests. Merchandise and food vendors will be on hand, and there is a beer garden to add to the festive environment.

30^th Annual Winter Park Jazz Festival – July 21-22
For 30 years the Winter Park Jazz Festival has been treating attendees to some of the best jazz acts in the country. This year’s lineup includes Charlie Wilson, David Sanborn/Brian Culbertson, Joe Louis Walker Big Band, Hazel Miller and more! For a complete schedule visit Winter Park-Fraser Valley’s Jazz Festival web page.

Colorado Freeride Festival/Mountain Bike Capital USA™ Weekend – July 26-29
This event continues Winter Park Resort and Trestle Bike Park’s long tradition of hosting world-class mountain bike events. The Freeride Festival promises some of the best mountain bikers in the world battling it out for more than $35,000 in prize money.

Winter Park Free Family Fun Fest – July 28
NRC Broadcasting presents this family-friendly-filled event including bouncy castles, climbing wall, face painting, balloon animals, train rides, bike park demo, live performances and more.

Winter Park Music Festival – Aug. 4
Bret Michaels headlines this free festival, which features classic music from the 80s and 90s.  The event is held at Hideaway Park. Other acts on the schedule include Lewis & Floorwax and The Groove Hawgs and special guests.  Gates open daily at 10 a.m.  The festival starts at 12 on Saturday and runs until 6 p.m

Winter Park Beer Festival – Aug. 11
This beer sampling event features 25 craft breweries with live music from Mike Doughty. Merchandis and food vendors will be available to complete the festival fun.
Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce (www.PlayWinterPark.com)

The Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit Colorado corporation created to help further and maintain responsible growth in the Winter Park-Fraser Valley area, located in the Rocky Mountains just 65 miles west of Denver.

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Interview with Jon Brickner

–Local mountain biking pro shares everything needed to create an epic experience in Mountain Bike Capital USA^TM

Winter Park-Fraser Valley, Colo. – With 600 miles of marked and unmarked terrain, Winter Park-Fraser Valley, dubbed Mountain Bike Capital USA, offers a variety of trails for every kind of mountain biker. From jeep roads to singletracks, wide routes to narrow, established to barely burned-in trails, there are tons of options in Winter Park-Fraser Valley.

“What distinguishes this area is the sheer amount of trails – we have everything and a lot of it,” says Jon Brickner, a professional mountain biker who lives in Winter Park and is sponsored by Mountain Bike Capital USA^TM. “Here, we have more pine, more dark and tacky dirt, and an elevation of about 10,000 feet. It all combines to create a really unique place to ride.”

Brickner says another benefit to Mountain Bike Capital USA^TM is the fact that hundreds of trails are accessible right from most lodging properties in Winter Park-Fraser Valley. No packing up the bike in the car and schlepping it to trailheads many miles out of town. “There really are more options here than you can fit into a summer!” says Brickner. He also adds that it’s nearly impossible to get lost in the maze of trails. “If you just start going downhill you will end up on Highway 40 somewhere, and that takes you right back into town.”

But with so many trails it can be hard to know where to start. Here, Brickner offers his tips on the best rides for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders in Mountain Bike Capital USA^TM.

Beginner: Northwest Passage Trail to Flume, which starts just outside the town of Fraser, offers a very gradual uphill climb. This ride has a really nice singletrack with only a little rock and root, says Brickner. “It’s really gentle, mellow stuff.”
Intermediate: For the middle-of-the-road rider Brickner suggests Blue Sky, a trail that takes riders to D-4, D-2 and into Elk Meadow. According to Brickner this is a nice, wide singletrack with some rocks and a little climb, but nothing too strenuous. “This trail is really fun to descend!” adds Brickner.

Advanced: For those who want to feel a serious burn, Brickner suggest Tipperary to Spruce Creek, which features a long, demanding climb and a high-speed descent on singletrack. “It’s about 15 minutes on a dirt road that leads to a fantastic climb and descent that makes all the pain worth the gain,” Brickner says.

To make like a professional mountain biker, even if you’re just starting out, Brickner offers these tips for the day of a ride.

• Sunscreen: The sun’s rays are more intense at a higher elevation. Pack plenty of sun block and apply it liberally and often.
• Water: Drink lots of water! The heat, altitude and physical excursion can take a toll. Consider several bottles of water, or a backpack that has a water bladder included.
• Refuel: Brickner recommends having an energy bar or gel on the ride. After a day of riding, Brickner says a protein drink helps with recovery.

Click here for the map from The Official Mountain Bike and Trail Guide to Winter Park-Fraser Valley.

Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce (www.PlayWinterPark.com)

The Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit Colorado corporation created to help further and maintain responsible growth in the Winter Park-Fraser Valley area, located in the Rocky Mountains just 65 miles west of Denver.

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Contacts: Diane Ehlert, Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber, 970-726-4221, ext. 203, dehlert@playwinterpark.comInterview with Jon Brickner

Winter Park Jazz Festival

interview with Catherine Ross

Winter Park-Fraser Valley, Colo. – Winter Park-Fraser Valley today announced the dates for the 30^th Winter Park Jazz Festival, to be held in Winter Park on July 21-22. Tickets go on sale Monday, April 9 at 10 a.m. (MT) and may be purchased by calling (888) 409-5974 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. General admission tickets are $40, V.I.P. cost $60 and Gold or Plaza tickets are $110.

New this year – V.I.P. and Gold ticket holders will have assigned seating. “No more rushing to grab a seat!” says Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber Director Catherine Ross. “It will be reserved and waiting for you.”

Ross says this year’s event is indicative of the quality music this summer festival has come to represent. “For three decades the Winter Park Jazz Festival has been a treasured tradition for locals and visitors alike,” she says. “From the intimate venue in the heart of Winter Park to the well-known national and regional acts, the Jazz Festival is a really special celebration.”
30^th Winter Park Jazz Festival Lineup (www.playwinterpark.com/jazz_festival.html)

Saturday, July 21

• Charlie Wilson
• Summer of Soul featuring Jonathan Butler, Maysa and Warren Hill
• Joe Louis Walker Big Band
• Dotsero featuring special guest Mary Louise

Sunday, July 22

• David Sanborn/Brian Culbertson
• Mint Condition
• Eric Darius
• Hazel Miller

Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce (www.PlayWinterPark.com)
The Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit Colorado corporation created to help further and maintain responsible growth in the Winter Park-Fraser Valley area, located in the Rocky Mountains just 65 miles west of Denver. The Winter Park Fraser Valley Key Card is a free loyalty program that rewards visitors for purchases at participating businesses in Winter Park-Fraser Valley. The card, which is free to sign up for, is also the means by which visitors may redeem their rewards and promotional offerings.

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Contacts: Diane Ehlert, Winter Park-Fraser Valley Chamber, 970-726-4221, ext. 203, dehlert@playwinterpark.com

Gaylene Ore, Ore Communications, 970-531-2336, gaylene@orecommunications.com