2020 Winter Getaway Guide

Index

Estes Park Brewery ............ 3 Rocky Mountain National Park .... 4 Snowy Peaks ..... 4 Riverview Pines ................ 5 Mountain Lodges .............. 6 Kirk’s Fly Shop .. 7 The Stanley Hotel .............. 10 Higland Bard ... 11 Inn on Fall River ............... 12 Aspen Winds ... 13 YMCA of the Rockies .......... 15 Photo cover

by Rick Martinez

The Stanley Hotel is a centerpiece of Estes Valley.

Welcome to Estes!

A

s the new Managing Editor of the Estes Park Trail-Gazette

FREE BEER! 4 Free 3 oz Samples at our Samples Bar

A BEER LOVER’S DREAM COME TRUE!

Full-Bar, Restaurant, & Retail Store Delicious food for the entire familyy.

Pool tables and video games.

Spectacular deck with mountain vviews.

12 hand-crafted beers brewed on site.

Estes Park Brewery 470 Prospect Village Drive epbrewery.com • 970-586-5421 2 • WINTER 2020

Tyler Pialet / Estes Park Trail-Gazette

and new resident of Estes Park, I am falling in love with my new home. This is a mountain community with an incredibly rich history and an abundance of natural beauty to share.

Spring is a glorious time to visit the Rocky Mountains.

Whether you are visiting for a short weekend or a longer adventure, you can find plenty to do here.

Couples, families and seniors can plan a trip that includes outdoor natural beauty, fine dining and oneof-a-kind shopping.

We want your stay to be memorable. There is some road construction on one of the main highways that leads into Estes Park.

The Colorado Department of Transportation is closing Highway 36 between Lyons and Estes Park in the area of the Lions Gulch Trailhead for a 30-day period in March for some much-needed repairs.

Don’t let that stop you!

Drivers can use State High-

Wendy Rigby

way 7 or U.S. 34 as alternate routes. This may add about 20 minutes to your travel time, but we promise that Estes in the spring is worth it!

I think my new town is an incredible place to visit and to live. Hope to see you soon!

Wendy Rigby Managing Editor Estes Park Trail-Gazette

Estes Park Brewery’s beer history

By Daniel Sewell Estes Park Trail-Gazette

T

he Estes Park Brewery has 12 hand-crafted brews on tap plus a non-alcoholic root beer. Each beer has its own story so here’s a quick synopsis of a few of the best.

Out of the original four beers, the Estes Park Renegade was the strongest at 5.8% a/v. Only the “renegades” in town would dare drink such an intoxicating brew.

Longs Peak Raspberry Wheat was also named with a sense of humor. Hiking Longs Peak is anything but light and refreshing, which is ironic because that is exactly how this beer is to taste.

In 1996 The Shining Pale Ale was born. An American

Learn more about the beers with a tasting at the downstairs bar or head upstairs for an overlook of the brewery, food and games.

Ale that is bitter and strong and frighteningly good.

Another ode to Stephen King’s classic is the Redrum Ale. It has a reddish hue and is not very bitter at 24 bu.

That makes it easy to down, or “kill,” one of these fairly quickly.

The most popular beer today is Stinger Wild Honey.

It stings because the sugar in the honey produces more alcohol and it is delicious to drink because they add 6 lbs of Colorado Clover Honey per barrel.

A truly sad story is com-

Experience Rocky Mountain National Park

By Rocky Mountain National Park

R

ocky offers places for family fun, adventure, solitude, recreation, and countless other pursuits.

Availability of roads and facilities can vary seasonally so check the current conditions.

Here are some of the main places to go and things to do during your visit.

Visitor Centers Five visitor centers are situated throughout the park and are a great place to start your park adventure, learn something new, get that burning question answered, or purchase a souvenir in one of the Rocky Mountain Conservancy gift shops. Be sure to check which visitor centers are open during your stay.

Scenic Drives

Be sure to take a scenic drive during your visit, but it’s important to check road conditions to see what will be open during your visit. For spectacular high mountain scenery, Trail Ridge Road is hard to beat. Scenic overlooks abound and the alpine tundra will take your breath away.

Cresting just over 12,000 feet, it is the highest through paved highway in the nation, and crosses the Continental Divide at Milner Pass.

The historic Old Fall River Road is a scenic 9-mile dirt road that is typically open from early July through late September. Because of its steep grade and tight curves, there is a length limit for vehicles.

See PARK, pg. 4

memorated by the Samson Stout. This is an oatmeal stout, which is brewed with oatmeal to add a touch of sweetness. Samson was a huge bull elk that would let people get uncomfortably close, he spent lots of time at the YMCA and was even known to walk down main street.

On Nov. 11, 1995, he was poached. Since then the Estes Park Brewery has donated to programs aimed at apprehending and prosecuting poachers.

On a lighter note there is

the Staggering Elk Lager.

The name comes from a misunderstanding several years ago. Some people thought that when the elk ate some of the spent grain, or mash, that it would make them drunk; it doesn’t, but it is funny to imagine.

The Estes Park Gold is an amber ale, the water has specks of gold in it from the headwaters of the Big Thompson River, which flows down the high, snowcapped mountains filtering through the moraines of Glacier Gorge and comes cold, fresh, and clear, to the brewery.

Learn more about the beers with a tasting at the downstairs bar or head upstairs for an overlook of the brewery, food and games.

Enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine, champagne, or sparkling cider to Celebrate 20 years with us in 2020! *Mention “Getaway Celebration” The secluded setting along Fall River, among the aspen and pines, offers a relaxing atmosphere.

Aspen Winds is located minutes from downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.

One & two bedroom suites | In-room spa suites Free Wi-Fi, Netflix, cable, DVD | Kitchen/kitchenettes Gas fireplaces | Fire pit | Non-smoking | No pets 970-586-6010 • 1-800-399-6010 1051 Fall River Court, Estes Park, CO ASPENWINDS.COM

WINTER 2020 • 3

High altitude Estes winery

By Snowy Peaks

several other boutique wineries. ince 2005, Snowy Come try a wine tasting to Peaks Winery has find your favorites from our been producing extensive list, then relax in award-winning wines in the lounge or on the patio Estes Park from Colorado with a glass of wine and a grown grapes. selection of delicious, localThe majority of the grapes ly-made cheeses and gourare grown on the western met foods. Live music can slope in Palisade, Colo. and always be expected on Fria few come from Burlington, day afternoons.

Colo. with 25 different We pride ourselves in prowines and blends available viding an unpretentious including Merlot, Syrah, environment where everyViognier and Riesling. one can have fun. From the Located at 292 Moraine children’s playroom and Ave. in Estes Park, the tast- juice tastings to wineing room offers a taste of themed board games and Colorado. In addition to winery tours, we’re sure wines hand-crafted on site, you’ll have a great time at Snowy Peaks Winery. there are also wines from

S

Snowy Peaks

MENTION THIS AD FOR A FREE GIFT!

Tasting Room “Wine is sunlight, held together by water” - Galileo

Tyler Pialet / Estes Park Trail-Gazette

Long’s Peak towers more than 14,000 feet in elevation and can be seen from most anywhere in the park.

Park from page 3 Picnic Areas

Rocky is a great place to have a picnic. Picnic areas are located throughout the park, so pack your cooler and enjoy a meal with a view.

Wilderness

Head out on a day hike and experience the wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park. Backpack into the heart of the park and sleep under the stars. Hit the trails on horseback. Adventure and solitude are waiting.

Rocky Mountain National Park has 355 miles of hiking trails. They range from flat lakeside strolls to steep mountain peak climbs. If you are new to the park consult with rangers at visitor centers or the Wilderness Office.

They can provide advice about trails which are appropriate to different fitness and experience levels.

West Side – Kawuneeche Valley

VISIT US AND HAVE A GLASS OF LIQUID SUNSHINE AT THE END OF YOUR TRAIL.

LIVE MUSIC ON FRIDAYS

292 Moraine Ave. Estes Park • www.snowypeakswinery.com 4 • WINTER 2020

HANDCRAFTED IN ESTES PARK

Home to the headwaters of the mighty Colorado River, the Kawuneeche Valley is a great place to enjoy the quieter west side of Rocky. Start a hike from one of the many trailheads, stop for a picnic, or visit the Holzwarth Historic Site. Explore the accessible and family-friendly Coyote

Valley Trail to look for wildlife, get an up-close view of the river and have a picnic.

The Kawuneeche Valley is also the best place to look for moose in the park.

East Side – Bear Lake Area

The Bear Lake Area has scenic overlooks, picnic sites, and trailheads for many of the most popular hikes on the east side of the park. Be sure to take the free park shuttle during the busy summer and fall months. Both Bear Lake and Sprague Lake are perfect spots for a quick photo or a nice stroll.

East Side – Lily Lake

Located along Highway 7 just south of Estes Park, beautiful Lily Lake features stunning views of Longs Peak, picnic tables, a fishing pier, and a short accessible family-friendly trail around the lake.

Wildlife watching and photography

Whether it be bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, or other wildlife, Rocky visitors have a passion for viewing wild animals, especially the big ones. A winter elk herd numbering between 200-600, about 350 bighorn sheep, and numerous mule deer call the See PARK, pg. 5

Oasis awaits at Riverview Pines

By Riverview Pines

E

ncompassing over four acres along Fall River Riverview Pines is just three miles from the Fall River Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and only one mile from dining and shopping in downtown Estes Park.

Riverview Pines is both kid- and pet-friendly in a serene, pine tree shaded setting with Old Man Mountain looking down on our south side and Castle Mountain standing guard in front.

Our property features free wi-fi, guest laundry, a playground, shuffleboard, fishing, video library, outdoor games, hot tub and a large grassy commons area with picnic tables and grills.

As a small family owned and operated business, we here at Riverview Pines take pride in providing a pleasant and personal experience.

Your phone calls and emails for inquiries or assistance are always welcome.

Accommodations: • 1 bedroom duplex cabins sleep 2 with a king bed, double sided fireplace, in room jetted tub for 2, separate bathroom with shower, TV/DVD/VCR , washer/ dryer, gas grill and outdoor dining on the deck overlooking Fall River. Complimentary toiletries, all linens, utensils, cooking and dining wares are provided.

• 2 bedroom duplex cabins sleep 6 with a queen bed and bathroom in the first bedroom and both a queen

Riverview Pines is both kidand pet-friendly in a serene, pine tree-shaded setting with Old Man Mountain looking down on our south side and Castle Mountain standing guard in front.

bed and full size bed plus another bathroom in the second bedroom. These cabins also have full kitchens, fireplaces, flat screen TV’s in each room, 2 loveseats, dining for 6, washer/dryers, a gas grill and outdoor dining on the deck overlooking Fall River. Complimentary toiletries, all linens, utensils, cooking and dining wares are provided.

• Rooms on the River offer a standard motel style experience. Rooms 24-34 sleep 4 with 2 queen beds, dining table/chairs, microwave, mini fridge, coffee maker, a full bath with shower/tub combo, additional sitting area, flat screen TV and a balcony or patio overlooking Fall River. Complimentary toiletries & all linens are provided. Grill utensils are available for your use as well.

Park from page 4 park home. The park’s great large-animal population makes it one of the country’s top wildlife watching destinations. Here at Rocky you can find 60 species of mammals, 280 recorded bird species, 11 species of fish, and countless insects, including a surprisingly large number of butterflies.

Rocky Mountain National Park visitors have a passion for viewing wild animals, especially the big ones.

With an elk herd numbering between 600 to 800 in the winter, about 350 bighorn sheep, numerous mule deer and a small population of moose calling the park home, it’s no surprise that wildlife watching is rated the number-one activity by a vast majority of Rocky’s 3 million annual visitors.

Tyler Pialet / Estes Park Trail-Gazette

Lily Lake is a great place to take an afternoon stroll.

Fishing

There are over 50 lakes and many streams where you can fish. Sport fishing is permitted in Rocky Mountain National Park, a protected area. A Colorado fishing license is required and special regulations exist. Fishing activities are balanced with efforts to restore and perpetuate natural aquatic environments and life.

• Family & Pet Friendly Riverfront Resort Open Year-Round • One & two bedroom cabins, & rooms on the river • Located on the NW side of Estes Park, 3 miles E of the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park • Just 1 mile from downtown shops, dining & entertainment • Free Wi-Fi, hot tub, playground, fire pit & fishing

GETAWAY SPECIAL: 1/2 off 2nd night or the 3rd night FREE (1/1/2020 - 4/30/2020) *Only valid if booked directly through our website

RiverviewPines.com | 970-586-3627 | 1150 W. Elkhorn Ave. | Estes Park

WINTER 2020 • 5

Fall in love with Estes Park

By Daniel Sewell Estes Park Trail-Gazette

T

he Castle Mountain Lodge property is easy to fall in love with.

There is a towering mountain right behind the cabins, which is the only thing between the property and Rocky Mountain National Park. The owner has even developed a mile long trail from the cabins to Deer Mountain Trail. In front of the property is 750 of Fall River, which the owners stock with trout three times a year.

McGregor Mountain Lodge is just two miles up Fall River Road; it is a sprawling property on McGregor Mountain with rooms, cabins and suites as well. Looking south one can see how deep

Castle Mountain Lodge / Courtesy photo

the valley is, combined with impressive views of Deer Mountain and Horseshoe Park in RMNP. In December 2018, Castle Mountain Lodge was award-

Find highly engaged talent quickly and simply by getting your jobs on the most recognized online destination sites.

Call 303.473.1402 to get started.

6 • WINTER 2020

ed the Holiday Business Bright Spot by the Estes Park In Bloom project for the dazzling lights hung on their trees and across the covered bridge over Fall River. The winter lights on both properties add a beautiful aura to the area when sheets of snow cover the land.

Estes Park is unique in that visitors return year after year after year, but there’s a new demographic to cater to; a demographic that is more adventure-oriented. So McGregor Mountain Lodge and Castle Mountain Lodge have started offering special package deals!

They have a Snowshoe Package and a Soak & Ski package, which includes a day at Eldora Ski Resort with rental equipment from the EP Mountain Shop and two nights in a cabin with a private hot tub. As well as packages for sweethearts and pampered spa days. And being that the owner is a member of the Estes Valley Trailrunners, it’s without a doubt that many a great trail are right out your door.

Along with catering to this demographic, both Lodges are also available for large

In December 2018, Castle Mountain Lodge was awarded the Holiday Business Bright Spot by the Estes Park In Bloom project. groups. Up to 45 people can rent the entire East side of the Castle Mountain Lodge property.

The owners’ passion for hospitality is the foundation for the integrity of the property. That integrity can be seen by how clean everything is and felt through their receptivity, but possibly best understood by their ethos.

On their website they say, “An innkeeper learns that one does not really ‘own’ a lodge like this, one is merely the steward for preserving the good efforts that have been made by many people over the prior years.”

Fishing in Estes Park

By Kirk's Flyshop

Guided fly fishing

K

irk’s Flyshop offers the best guided fly fishing trips in Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding areas. Our knowledgeable fly fishing guides are friendly and know exactly where and how to catch fish. They will ensure that every member of a guided tour has an incredibly memorable experience. We can guide Colorado fly fishing trips from drive-to sports, hiking locations, backpacking locations, or even remote lakes or streams. Our trips also encompass horseback and llama pack trips into the backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park. Every trip can be customized to your specifications. Just give us a call today to learn all about our amazing and one-of-akind fly fishing adventures.

Private waters

Fly fish on one of our private waters along the Big

Thompson River. Choose from the trophy waters at Sylvandale Ranch, the rugged North Fork, where dry fly fishing is abundant, or the remote area of Waterdale Ranch on the lower Thompson.

Float trips

Float the Colorado River canyon among majestic red cliffs, along some of Colorado’s best trophy trout fly fishing. Our experienced guides will take you on a trip of a lifetime for a full day trip or an overnight trip on one of the best trout fisheries on the Colorado River for big Rainbows and healthy browns.

Backpacking/fly fishing

Discover fly fishing Rocky Mountain National Park with an overnight adventure, all with the assistance of a professional, friendly and fullycertified fly fishing guide and outfitter. We can accommodate any level of expertise, any age and will completely See FISHING, pg. 14

Fly Fishing & Mountain

Adventures

Guided fly fishing, private water trips, float fishing trips, day hikes, overnight backpack, Long’s Peak trips, snowshoe trips, and llama pack trips in Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Valley Rental Gear | Top Brand Fly Fishing Gear | Outdoor Gear & Clothing | Fishing Licenses | Bear Canisters Sean Brubaker / Courtesy photo

Fly-fishing at the private Waterdale Ranch is a popular pasttime in Estes Park.

Visit our store at 230 East Elkhorn Avenue – just down from the DQ 877.669.1859 | 970.577.0790 www.kirksflyshop.com | www.kirksmountainadventures.com

WINTER 2020 • 7

~ Breathtaking ~ The Stanley Hotel is proud to introduce Northern Colorado’s newest wedding and event complex -

The Infamous Stringdusters March 13 & 14 @ 8:00 pm (Doors @ 7:00 pm)

Grooving along to this progressive bluegrass is easy to do. Their music is made with a banjo, double bass, dobro, guitar and d fiddle creating a full force of strings to swing on. Their latest album, “Rise Sun” (2019) follows the Grammy Award winning album called d “Laws of Gravity” (2017) which won Best Bluegrass Album in 2018.

Like some of the artists they’ve shared the stage with (Phil Lesh, Yonder Mountain String Band, Railroad Earth) The Infamous Stringdusterss thrive on live performance. Experience the improvisational jam band style and find a friend to let it go with! Get it while you can!

The Pavilion

Built to Spill

March 28 @ 8:30 pm (Doors @ 7:30 pm)

Ripping solos, warm tones, vague and familiar themes of subconscious connection, human commonality and memory, Neil Young influences—is what Built to Spill’s indie rock relates. “When we get together and pick up our instruments, I always believe that something magical is going to happen. And it often does, but it’s a magic that maybe only we can feel, in the moment, and doesn’t necessarily translate to tape or to other people. So we keep messing with it until it feels like real music to us. The songs evolve over a long period of time through trial and error. There’s a lot of ideas that don’t go anywhere, and it’s just a matter of leaving them out and including the things that work.”

There was no shortage of eureka moments during the making of “Untethered Moon” (2015). This being their latest album shows how the band likes to work on their music through live performance far after releasing the album. To further the point, “There is no Enemy” (2009) was the album before last. With eight studio albums to date, Built to Spill is a band that’s built to last.

Reverand Horton Heat April 7 @ 8:00 pm (Doors @ 7:00 pm)

Seeing Reverend Horton Heat live is a transformative experience. Flames come off the guitars. Heat singes your skin. There’s nothing g like the primal tribal rock & roll transfiguration of a Reverend Horton Heat show. Jim becomes a slicked-back 1950’s rock & roll shaman n channeling Screamin’ Jay Hawkins through Buddy Holly, while Jimbo incinerates the Stand-Up Bass. The Reverend’s commandantts are simple. And no band on this, or any other, planet rocks harder, drives faster, or lives truer than the Reverend Horton Heatt.

These “itinerant preachers” actually practice what they preach. They live their lives by the Gospel of Rock & Roll.

Lettuce

March 10 & 11 @ 8:00 pm (Doors @ 7:00 pm)

Formed in 1992, Lettuce was founded on a shared love of legendary funk artists like Earth, Wind, Fire and Tower of Power.

Blending together these talents in a sound distinctly their own, they have garnered praised by the likes of New York Times, NPR, Billboard, Consequence of Sound, Relix, and more. Known for their incendiary live shows, extensive touring, die-hard fans, and massive two-decade career, Lettuce have brought a new vitality to classic funk, matching their smooth and soulful grooves with a hip- hop-inspired urgency. Funk juggernauts Lettuce have been making their fans dance for 20 plus years. After headlining venues like Red Rocks, Capitol Theater and the Fillmore, the band of brothers are poised to get the crowd dancing and thinking at the same time. Their latest album Mt Crushmore is a journey into the depths of psychedelic funky soul.

Itchy-O

May 8 & 9 @ 8:00 pm (Doors @ 7:00 pm)

The group disrupts traditional performance protocols with a form of chaos that unifies spectators and audiences with a powerful and immersive musical experience that features elaborate costumes, large-scale puppets, teams of provocateurs, and d SpFX engineers. Drawing inspiration from many cultures – Japanese Taiko drumming to Chinese Lion dancing, Mexican streett processions, ancient esoteric symbolism and American drum corps, itchy-O offers a transcendental musical experience thatt dissolves the divide between performer and spectator. Itchy-O performances awaken the senses, test assumptions, and create an n opening for new experiences where identity and boundaries surrender and disband.

Shallou

May 23 @ 9:00 pm (Doors @ 7:30 pm)

Joe Boston has built a reputation for lovely, genre-slippery electronic pop that hits hard even at its most tranquil moments—with a new label home and over 350 million streams, Shallou is only getting started. “I’ve always tried to do things unconventionally, and I want to combine all the influences from the music that I love, beyond electronic music.” Overall, as Boston continues to grow he’s also making sure not to lose the “whimsical sadness” that he describes his music as potently possessing.” The hopeful yet melancholic feeling of love is something I’ve tried to put all of my music, and it’s something I keep aiming for,” he states—and listeners are doubtlessly about to fall head over heels for what he’s been cooking up.

8 • WINTER 2020

Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats May 29 & 30 @ 8:00 pm (Doors @ 7:00 pm)

Because Uncle Acid & the Deadbeats exist in their own self-created world, hoovering up trash/pop culture and spitting it back ou ut in hot chunks of finely-hewn riffola and righteous rock ‘n roll noise. Make no mistake though they are a pop band too: a pop band of the most fuzzed-up, subversive kind. One with three part harmonies that sing of death and murder. But a pop band all the same e.

Their newest album, The Night Creeper, has a distinct concept as a starting point. “The idea is that this album could have started life as an old cheap, grime-covered 25 cent pulp paperback like the type sold at news-stands outside subway stations,” sayys enigmatic frontman Kevin Starrs. “But then perhaps it is adapted into a film noir, which itself is then re-made twenty years late er as an ultraviolent, slasher Italian Giallo film. The album follows this aesthetic lineage as it descends from to trash to noir to something discernibly darker.”

For more info & tickets:

www.stanleylive.com Day Tours - every 2 hours Night Tours - every hour

Illusions of the Past Fri, Sat, Sun Doors open at 7:30 pm Show starts at 8 pm

Set against the striking backdrop of Long’s Peak and Rocky Mountain National Park, The Pavilion builds on the F.O. Stanley architectural heritage while combining cutting-edge design, technology, and innovation.

The Pavilion features a 250-seat glass door auditorium and over 8,000 square feet of banquet space set against a private pond. Now open, the stunning new Pavilion is available for one-of-a-kind weddings, receptions, celebrations, or corporate events.

The Stanley Hotel 333 East Wonderview Avenue Estes Park, Colorado

Learn More at:

www.stanleyhotel.com/pavilion WINTER 2020 • 9

Carriage House at Stanley Hotel sees revamped future

By Avery Martinez Trail-Gazette

T

he Stanley Hotel is looking to add a new restaurant to its many offerings, one that owner John Cullen believes is a good sign for the economic development of the town.

The Carriage House, where the famous Stanley Steamer vehicles were stored, will be renovated and rejuvenated into a Post restaurant, part of the Boulder-based group of Post restaurants.

Built as a garage in 1905, the approximately 5,000 square-foot building was also briefly used as a 26-room motel in the 1960’s. It has

been used as a storage shed project as the Carriage ever since then. Cullen added House is the last Stanley that he was excited for the building left to be fully renovated and preserved since he bought the hotel 25-years ago.

One of the main difficulties with the Carriage House is that F.O. Stanley built it without a foundation underneath and due to the current building code any new use would have to have one.

But, despite this difficulty, there is now a plan to renovate the building.

In order to preserve the building and allow renovations, Cullen said the roof will TM be lifted off the structure and set to the side. Then, a foundation will be dug down 14 feet inside the walls of the Carriage House and the roof THEHIGHLANDBARD.COM put back on afterward. That work commences this month.

In this way, the foundation can be added to allow renovations to the building while 238 W Elkhorn also preserving the historical 970-235-0048 core structure, Cullen said.

The basement and foundation alone will cost approximately $1 million, Cullen

The Highland Bard

10 • WINTER 2020

The Stanley Hotel / Courtesy photo

This is an artist’s rendering of what the renovated renovated Carriage House will look like.

said. Another $1 million will be spent on preserving the building structure itself.

One of the best ways to preserve something is to make it economically sustainable, Cullen said. Further, he said that it would be much cheaper to build a new building, but that the Stanley Hotel is committed to historic preservation.

The Carriage House, Cullen said, is an important part of the F. O. Stanley legacy and our goal is to maintain everything he built.

In order for this project to even begin, Cullen said that a very thorough and complete permitting and approval process took place. But the permits are now issued, and the future of the Carriage House can begin.

Historic and recycled materials will be used throughout the project, including historically correct and energy-efficient glass placed where the garage doors to the Carriage House for the Stanley Steamers were once located, Cullen See STANLEY, pg. 15

The Highlands are here!

By Daniel Sewell Estes Park Trail-Gazette

B

uilt with the side of a rocky mountain as its fourth wall is the store on W. Elkhorn Ave. with the newest name: The Highland Bard. Just as Highland Music closes their retail store, The Highland Bard opens theirs, in the building Dr. James Durwood built. Founder of the Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Festival, Dr. Durwood must be happy to see the Celtic legacy continue in Estes Park in the building he had built no less than 50 years ago.

The Bard family had long been in love with Estes Park, the mountains, and the history it has.

Daniel Sewell / Estes Park Trail-Gazette “This is really a realization Custom designs are produced on leather, leggings, shirts, and labels. They create custom flavors See HIGHLANDS, pg. 15 for tea, coffee, and tea jelly.

Cabins, Suites, and Rooms Bordering Rocky Mountain National Park McGregor Mountian Lodge - just a half mile from RMNP’s Fall River Entrance

Castle Mountain Lodge - on 750’ of trout stocked Fall River!

Open year round, smoke free, dog friendly, perfect for romantic getaways, family reunions, and small group retreats.

www.McGregorMountainLodge.com 2815 Fall River Rd | 800-835-8439

www.CastleMountainLodge.com 1520 Fall River Rd | 800-852-7463

WINTER 2020 • 11

The Pinecone Room is great for couples.

Inn on Fall River Courtesy photo

A river runs through it

By Inn on Fall River

T

the banks of a sparkling mountain stream, and is built on he Inn on Fall River, land that was once within the located at 1660 Fall River original boundary of Rocky Rd. in Estes Park, is on Mountain National Park, and

Come treat yourself to one of our Newly Re-modeled King rooms in our Mountain Lodge at

THE INN ON FALL RIVER! Located directly on the Fall River, and bordering the Rocky Mountain National Park, these gorgeous mountain modern rooms will give you the complete Rocky Mountain experience.

We also have Luxury Cabins right on Fall River with private Hot Tubs and in-room Jacuzzi's, for an enhanced relaxing and rejuvenating stay.

Please visit our website OR call to make a reservation for your next Getaway!

1660 Fall River Rd, Estes Park CO, 80517 (970) 586-4118 or (800) 255-4118 www.innonfallriver.com 12 • WINTER 2020

retains some of the same magnificent natural surroundings that have been around for centuries.

The charm of a crystal clear stream, giant pine and spruce, some 300 years old, and mountain views wherever you look is just what you are looking for in an Estes Park getaway.

Halfway between Estes Park and the Fall River entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, The Inn on Fall River is a perfect setting for a memorable vacation.

The Inn on Fall River has something for your every inclination. From a 10 mile hike to fishing alongside over 3,000 feet of the Fall River and Light Shows, we have something for everyone. Stay with us and enjoy the swings, fire pits, picnic tables, and trails all along the River.

Coming to Estes Park to hike? You have found the right place. Whether you choose a gentle stroll along the peaceful river or take on a 10 mile trek to a summit, The Inn on Fall River has it all. Miles and Miles of hiking trails await you.

The brand new Stream

Halfway between Estes Park and the Fall River entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, The Inn on Fall River is a perfect setting for a memorable vacation.

Suites will feature a gorgeous area for rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions, family reunions, and other events.

This building will feature an elevator, water features, full bar, and an event coordinator to facilitate your experience all with free high speed internet throughout the property.

The Inn on Fall River is a perfect place for adults and children. 2 playgrounds, horseshoes, shuffleboard, volleyball, basketball, bocce ball, pickleball etc. You name it, we have it. Go to innonfallriver .com to book your stay today!

Be surrounded by beauty

By Aspen Winds on Fall River

Aspen Winds where elk, deer and other wildlife wander freely through a lush setre you looking for ting of willows and mature lodging in the majesaspen, spruce, fir and pine tic Rocky Mountains? trees. Relish in the soothing A stay at Aspen Winds prosounds and views of the river vides the opportunity to along with the majesty of the experience the splendor of mountains all from the comthe Rockies as you have only fort of your condo and deck. imagined possible. ConveFrom the deep greens of niently located 3 miles west summer, luminescent golds of central downtown Estes of autumn and glittering Park and 1½ miles from the whites and crystal blues of Fall River entrance to Rocky winter and spring, Aspen Mountain National Park, Winds lodging on Fall River Aspen Winds provides a is beautiful year-round. comfortable lodging experiThe Aspen Winds owners ence. We offer spa suites and live onsite, manage the propone or two bedroom condoerty and have over 40 years minium suites on the river of experience in the Estes that appeal to every vacation- Park lodging business. er’s needs.

Along with the rest of the The cool, rushing waters Aspen Winds family, they of Fall River, full of rainbow want to ensure you have a trout, provide frontage to wonderful experience during

A

your stay.

Aspen Winds has 16 condo suites and vacation rentals right on Fall River. Our suites have either a private balcony or deck, complete with outdoor seating offering beautiful mountain and river views.

With entrances separated by a breezeway, some of our units are easily paired for guests traveling together.

Accessible units are available. Two additional units, not on the river but with complete access to the river, are located on the Aspen Winds property. All condo suites and rentals are furnished with everything to make your stay comfortable and memorable. Amenities provided in each unit include: • Complimentary Netflix • Free Wi-Fi • LCD Flat Screen TV

• Blu-Ray DVD Player • Cooking & Dining Utensils • Telephone with Free Long Distance • Hair Dryer • Iron & Ironing Board • Daily Housekeeping • A gas fire pit for guests to enjoy Units with full kitchens include a full size electric range/oven, full size refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, toaster, electric skillet, crock pot, coffee maker and coffee.

Units with kitchenettes include a microwave, counter-height refrigerator, toaster, electric skillet, crock pot, coffee maker and coffee.

Check out aspenwinds.com for more information and to book your getaway today!

1237 WINTER 2020 • 13

Fun-filled winter adventures start at YMCA of the Rockies

By YMCA of Rockies

A

winter or spring getaway to YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center is an adventure-filled alternative to the more crowded and trendy ski resorts.

At Estes Park Center, you’ll find activities for all ages and interests. Plan to do some ice skating on our outdoor pond or get out on the trails with snowshoes to explore Rocky Mountain National Park or the trails on the YMCA property.

Warm up with a game of basketball or some roller skating in the Longhouse or checkout the Boone Family Mountain Center’s indoor climbing wall and educational displays.

For the artists in your group, our large and well-appointed craft and design center offers craft projects for the most 1920s, the Hostel at Ranch House sleeps beginner to the most advanced artists.

17 in five bedrooms with two community Stay in the Hostel bathrooms, a large living room, fullyat Ranch House equipped kitchen, large dining area and The Hostel at Ranch House is a new, spacious porch. Reservations start at community-driven lodging option that $29/night and include linens, towels, and offers travelers an affordable, comfortaccess to YMCA of the Rockies activities able accommodation in an historic and programs. mountain lodge with unencumbered Individual reservations for The Hostel access to the YMCA of the Rockies’ vast at Ranch House are available online at offerings and to Rocky Mountain Nationymcarockies.org or by calling 888-613al Park.

9622. Guests must be at least 18 years With the addition of the hostel to the old. YMCA of the Rockies member dispopular cabin and lodge rooms, the counts do not apply.

YMCA is continuing a 100-year-old mission to provide an affordable opportunity Spring break special for travelers on any budget to experience activities for families the YMCA and the beautiful Rocky Join YMCA of the Rockies for “Frozen Mountains. The Hostel at Ranch House Worlds” this spring. From March 13 – offers a memorable, authentic Colorado April 2, enjoy a spring break Rocky experience for guests and helps build Mountain-style including activities such friendships that span the globe. as: Housed in a lodge built in the early • Snowmen and Snow Fort Building –

Weather and snow depending.

• Snowflakes and Puppets – Cut snowflakes from paper and use paper bags to make penguin and polar bear puppets.

• Reindeer Antlers – Learn about the deer family and their unique antlers.

Then construct your own set of antlers!

• Penguin Party! – Race frozen penguins and practice carrying eggs like penguins.

• Polar Bear Talk – Learn all about the largest land mammal in the world!

• Science Experiments – Make snow ice cream and practice staying warm like arctic animals!

Cabins and lodge rooms are available at our super value rates for the spring break time period! Cabins ranging from 2-4 bedrooms start at $109/night. Lodge rooms include two free breakfasts and start at $89/night. Make your reservation online today or call our reservation department at 888-613-9622.

Fishing from page 7 tailor the trip to your preference.

Fly fishing class

Learn the basics of fly fishing in a fun, relaxing, non-intimidating environment on 14 • WINTER 2020

our own private setting, where fish are plentiful and views of the Continental Divide are stunning!

Group/corporate trips Planning a family reunion

or corporate trip? No matter what the group we can accommodate you with the perfect Rocky Mountain adventure to share together!

Whether it is an afternoon of

fishing after morning meetings, a full day excursion into the back country, let Kirks plan your trip for you and give you a memorable experience.

Stanley from page 10

said.

But far more than just preserving an important piece of Estes Park and Stanley Hotel history, Cullen said that this is a large investment in economic development in Estes Park.

“I’m really glad to see the Carriage House come back to life and couldn’t be happier to bring in the talents and strength of the award-winning Post group to operate it under a long-term lease”, said Cullen.

The Post Brewery is associated with The Big Red F Company, formed in 1994 by Chef Dave Querry of Boulder.

“Behind the bar, our mixologists are crafting delicious cocktails and assembling wine and beer lists built on local intelligence and value, The Big Red F website states.

Both mixologists and gen-

genuine and memorable,” according to the website.

In total, 95% of Big Red F’s donations go into local chari-

ties “that empower and facilitate much-needed care to the residents in the communities that we live in and serve,” according to the website.

The addition of the Post Restaurant is about the town’s year-round economy.

Cullen said he was very excited about bringing a new Colorado business “up the hill” to Estes Park.

While Cullen said he was sure there would be detractors, he said that “To have a major company with 14 restaurants make this kind of investment in our community is a sign of great progress.”

“This is arguably the most expensive garage renovation ever,” Cullen said when describing the plans for the Carriage House.

Cullen said that dirt would begin moving next week for the project with a Summer 2020 opening.

Vikings used to make. The mead I use for my jelly is called Bunratty Mead, which is actually made at the Bunratty Castle in Ireland. We were in that castle and it was the first place I had ever drank mead, which is why I was so drawn to using that mead for my mead tea jelly.”

Their Vanilla Spiced Tea Jelly is made with Maker’s Mark, chosen for being from Bard’s native region, Kentucky, “I wanted to pull from our Kentucky heritage because that’s a big part of who we are.

We’re also part of the Baird Scottish Clan (they dropped the “i” at some point), which is why I use Glendronach Scotch for the Wild Cherry Tea Jelly, because it’s made in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, where our clan is from.”

The threads of history string far back, yet they seem-

ingly align in a nice braid, as perhaps a Bard is apt in doing.

Which is not all consciously thought out, the pottery they chose for the store is made by Eric O’Donnell, and coincidentally he’s of Irish origin as well. But the Celtic diaspora doesn’t define everyone, which is why the Bards connect most strongly to the store’s tagline: “Journey Far… the bold succeed where so ever they go.” Their main goal is to help people connect with something that will help them on their path to contentment and adventure.

David said, “I don’t care if people just want to come in to check out the mountain in the store or the original door that’s hanging behind us. if they have a connection to the Celtic culture or just our phrase ‘journey far’ then we welcome them.”

The Stanley Hotel / Courtesy photo

The Carriage House at the Stanley Hotel will be renovated into a Post Brewing restaurant.

eral managers in dining rooms are “striving to ensure a level of hospitality and graciousness that will always be

Highlands from page 11

of a dream, as this store has always been a favorite of ours,” said David, father of the family, “the mountain in the store provides an energy that you can’t find anywhere else.”

Which is just like the store itself, as most everything available can’t be found anywhere else.

Custom designs by daughter Morgyn and David are produced on leather, leggings, shirts, and labels. They create custom flavors for tea, coffee, and tea jelly. And they support traditional style wool mills in Ireland and Scotland with an assortment of hats, scarves, traditional shirts, ponchos, and gloves.

They have produced custom pieces for the Scottish Family Clan and all of their teas, coffees, and tea jellies have been specially crafted with unique flavors including

mead, bourbon, and scotch.

Tea jelly has less sugar than regular jelly and last holiday they sold 16 cases of tea jelly with their retail partners.

Morgyn was very fond of tea when she first found tea jelly at the Estes Park Farmer’s Market, “There was a chai and earl grey flavor and I wanted to create a tea jelly that wasn’t a tea flavor. My first flavor was my Moonlight Mango, one of my good sellers that goes really well with fish.”

Morgyn now has 8 different tea jellies, including a few with alcoholic flavors. The alcohol cooks off in processing, but the remaining flavor makes for great marinades or as the name implies, tea additives.

“Our best seller is the Orange Honey Mead, which is a fermented honey wine.

Mead is something the

WINTER 2020 • 15

16 • WINTER 2020