Estes Park Winter Getaway Guide 2023

Photo by: Rick Martinez

Estes Park Health is here to serve all your winter healthcare needs

By Wendy Rigby, Estes Park Health

Estes Park Health is ready and able to treat any health and medical needs that arise in our mountain town in the winter season.

Flu Shots

It’s not too late to protect yourself against the flu. Estes Park Health has plenty of vaccines on hand for the community.

Urgent Care

For minor injuries, broken bones, respiratory illnesses, gastric issues or when you simply cannot get in to see your primary care physician for a health concern

the Estes Park Health Urgent Care Center located at 420 Steamer Court, Unit 101, is open from 8 a m to 6 p m Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Emergency Department

Located at Estes Park Health at 555 Prospect Avenue, our ED is ready to serve all your emergency care needs, from cardiac problems to trauma from accidents. COVID-19 testing: PCR COVID-19 tests are available Monday through Friday by appointment. Call 970-5862200 to schedule your test.

Primary, Medical and Surgical Care

The Physician Clinic at Es-

IV nurses are frontline caregivers who are crucial to treating the patients at Estes Park Health Pictures are Abigail Starcevich, RN, BSN, Kate Fulton, RN, BSN, CCRN and Sean Dau, RN, BSN. Many other people on our staff provide this important professional service to provide healing and hope

tes Park Health provides primary care, as well as medical and surgical specialty care, to our community and visitors alike.

We care for men, women and children of all ages Most of our providers live and work full-time in Estes Park. You don’t have to travel far for

Michael Romero, publisher: mromero@prairiemountainmedia com

Patti Brown, editor: pbrown@prairiemountainmedia com

the care you need because we bring in specialists each month who provide medical services that are typically only provided in bigger cities. Our providers are committed to the highest-quality, patient-centered care possible to promote your health and well-being

Matthew Poust, reporter: mpoust@prairiemountainmedia com

Dawn Wilson, correspondent: dawn@dawnwilsonphotography.com

Daniel Sewell, advertising: dswell@prairiemountainmedia com

Physician Clinic Hours

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call: 970-5862200 for an appointment in the Physician Clinic. Providers are listed under their specialty Masks are required in patient-care areas at Estes Park Health at all times

THE ESTES PARK TRAIL-GAZETTE

Mailing address: P.O. Box 1707, Estes Park, CO 80517

Office address: 351Moraine Avenue, Suite B, Estes Park CO

Phone number: (970) 586-3356

COURTESY PHOTO

The Town of Estes Park provides free and paid parking.

Reasons to visit Estes this winter

By Visit Estes Park For the Trail-Gazette

A mountain getaway to Estes Park offers a myriad of options for a snowy outdoor adventure and the opportunity to spot wildlife wandering through a pristine white landscape. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque main street or you simply want to feel that crisp fresh air infused with the smell of pines, you can have it all and more with a winter trip to Estes Park Here are just a few reasons why we love Estes Park in the winter.

The Great Outdoors

If you’ve visited Colorado’s most renowned national park in the summer or fall, you’re familiar with its majesty, but also its popularity How’d you like to have a quiet slice of it all to yourself?

In the winter, the Rocky Mountain National Park is transformed into a glistening white wonderland, and the hiking trails take on a fresh allure when explored on snowshoes or skis.

Estes Park Mountain Shop has rentals and everything else you need to get outfitted, and it can point you in the right

direction when it comes to trails as well.

Romantic Dining

No winter mountain getaway would be complete without a sumptuous, candle-lit dining experience The Dunraven, located in the Estes Park Resort is the go-to venue for comfort fare, and it boasts one of the most impressive wine lists in the area The Twin Owls Steakhouse combines the charm of a 90-year-old cabin (with rough-hewn logs and broad-plank

hardwood floors) with a modern dining experience It’s a cozy retreat that features a menu filled with a wide variety of steaks, wild game, and seafood. Check out more restaurants here.

Cozy Lodging

You have more than 150 choices when it comes to overnight accommodations in the Estes Valley, and many offer a truly unique experience. Whether you want a cozy cabin, a historic inn, or a luxury home, you can find it here Some lodging options even have a spa attached!

Fun Events

There’s always something going on in Estes Park. Don’t believe us? Check out our events calendar However, there are some special things we get really excited for here, and make the perfect excuse for you to come up and enjoy a Rocky Mountain getaway.

• Whiskey Warm Up March 4, 2023

• Frozen Dead Guy Days March 1719, 2023

• Bigfoot Days Festival April 14-15, 2023

offers special rates for Frozen Dead Guy Days

By YMCA of the Rockies For the Trail-Gazette

The YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado is celebrating the arrival of the Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival with a special lodging rate.

History says that it was in 1989 when the Norwegian citizen, Trygve Bauge brought the frozen body of his recently deceased grandfather, Bredo Morstol to the United States and preserved him in liquid nitrogen.

In honor of that 1989 year of famous transport, YMCA of the Rockies is offering a special lodging rate of $89/ night for any of our lodge rooms. This special $89/ night is for any lodge room at YMCA of the Rockies and includes two free breakfasts for each night booked. The special rate is available Friday, March 17 and Saturday,

March 18, 2023.

Book online at ymcarockies org or call the reservation department at 888-613-9622. Recently named “Best Family Resort in America” by USA Today, enjoy a unique setting for a mountain getaway on 800-plus acres bordering the impressive Rocky Mountain National Park.

During your stay at YMCA of the Rockies, choose from multiple activities like the indoor climbing wall, guided hikes, indoor swimming pool, nature education programs, and much more! Plus, enjoy special frosty-fun Frozen Dead Guy Days-themed activities that will round out this unique weekend experience in Estes Park!

Additional special rate details: rate not applicable to cabin reservations, based on availability, can not be combined with other offers, not available for group bookings.

VISIT ESTES PARK FOR THE TRAIL-GAZETTE

Frozen Dead Guy Days’ first festival in Estes Park is Mar. 17-19.

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Charge your electric car in Estes Park

By Judith Kohler

The Denver Post

Longtime Estes Park businessman Jim Sloan knows firsthand about the “range anxiety” of electric-car drivers after a trip to New Mexico in February when the screen in his Tesla Y was flashing “0 miles” and the outside temperature was below zero.

He was nervously nursing hhis to a fast-charging station south of Trinidad.

The owner of the National Park Village shopping area near the east entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park has installed a fastcharging station for electric vehicles at his business and made space for a second unit He has also installed two slower-charging stations since buying the site with his daughter in December 2020

“When we acquired the property, we wanted to in-

crease its sustainability, both for us as investors and for my tenants,” said Sloan, who is also installing 100 kilowatts of solar energy. “My thrust is to accommodate the traveling public visiting the national park and help to over-

come their range anxiety.”

The state of Colorado has a goal of getting nearly 1 million electric vehicles on the road by 2030 to help cut greenhouse-gas emissions

The state’s investor-owned utilities and some rural elec-

tric cooperatives are investing in charging equipment.

On the federal level, the Biden administration has a target of all new vehicles sold by 2030 to be electric

Sloan worked with IPower Alliance and FreeWire Technologies to design and install the charging equipment FreeWire, whose ultra-fast chargers have a battery embedded in the system, has installed its equipment in about 15 states, the United Kingdom and other countries.

“I care more about these deployments than I do about some of the city deployments we have,” FreeWire CEO Arcady Sosinov said about more remote spots such as Estes Park. “You have to create that feeling of availability for electric vehicle drivers. If there’s even one location they can’t get to, they’re less likely to buy an electric vehicle.”

Electric vehicle charging stations are located in many locations in Estes Park for the traveler’s convienience

Things to do in Estes on winter visit

By Dawn Wilson Estes Park Trail-Gazette

For a small town in the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park holds a wide variety of things to do. Most people anticipate the outdoor adventures that can be experienced in this basecamp community for Rocky Mountain National Park, like snowshoeing, photography and backcountry skiing.

Many may not, however, anticipate the assortment of activities beyond the park boundaries to fill a visit to this quaint community nestled at the base of the Continental Divide.

The latest book from Estes Park Trail-Gazette outdoor writer, Dawn Wilson, “100 Things to Do in Estes Park Before You Die,” says 100 things on the cover but there are actually more than 200 within the pages of book.

The activities go beyond the park boundaries and a few inside to introduce visitors and locals alike to the history, culture, recreation, entertainment and dining options for all sorts of interests.

Of the more than 200 activities, these twelve reflect the ones she enjoys most on a winter’s day in Estes Park.

First, start with a sunrise photo shoot to capture the region’s beauty at Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. This easy-to-access lake might require spikes on your feet to prevent slipping as you walk the flat, snow-packed trail around the lake but the fresh air and the views of the mountain peaks to the west that light up with the morning glow will start off any day the right way. (Thing #45)

While in the park, stop at the former home of the Hidden Valley Ski Area to get a couple of runs in the powdery snow. The runs might be on backcountry skis, snowshoes or a plastic sled but any method is sure to bring out the kid in snow enthusiasts of all ages. (Thing #62)

To wind out a day in the

park, book a tour or class with Rocky Mountain Conservancy This non-profit organization that supports Rocky Mountain National Park hosts classes and tours for a wide variety of interests, like snowshoeing, photography and avalanche awareness throughout the year (Thing #47)

Estes Park has a vibrant craft beverage scene with four breweries, two distilleries, a winery, a world- class whiskey bar, and a smattering of places to drink. The adult beverage connoisseur is sure to find something appealing. In particular, try Lumpy Ridge Brewery where a glass of Ogg’s FM German Amber Lager out on their patio will make you feel like it is a sunny winter afternoon in Bavaria

(Thing #5)

Before a beverage, fill your belly with what Wilson, a native of New Jersey, considers the best New York-style pizza she has had since moving to Colorado in 2002 Antonio’s Real New York Pizza features pizzas made with the finest ingredients by owner Anthony DeSousa, a member of the World Pizza Champions and the Guinness Book of World Records for taking

part in the World’s Largest Pizza Party. Have a big group to feed? Consider ordering the Mega Don, a 26” thin crust pizza that can serve eight.

(Thing #18)

After indulging in the gooey hot cheese on a handtossed pizza, head over to You Need Pie to select your favorite flavor from a daily rotating menu of 20 to 30 pies out of more than 80 different pie recipes

There are all of the traditional favorites, like blueberry, cherry and pumpkin, plus a wide variety of homemade concoctions like chocolate cherry, blackberry cream cheese and peanut butter Oreo. (Thing #13)

Estes Park is proud to be a family-friendly destination, and the list of things to do in town for the whole clan will keep everyone happy and active. Although many outdoor adventure parks shut down in winter, there are still several options for indoor fun One of the most educational is to take in a night-sky viewing program at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory, where their 16-inch telescope can see things like star clusters, planets and nebulae deep in space

(Thing #23)

Movies entertain us throughout the year but when the wind gets whipping and the snow starts blowing head indoors to the oldest single-screen movie theatre in the U.S. Built at a time when Charlie Chaplin commanded the marquee, the Historic Park Theatre has seen many changes in the movie business from silent movies to the addition of sound to the transition to color and most recently into digital technology. Today, the theatre plays popular favorites from throughout the decades, including “The Birds” and “Grease”. (Thing #42)

One of the most famous destinations in Estes Park is The Stanley Hotel Rumored to be haunted, the hotel was made famous by inspiring the setting in Stephen King’s “The Shining” after he and his wife stayed at the Georgian Colonial Revival-style hotel in 1974 Find out for yourself if you are a believer by taking the ghost tour at the hotel. (Thing #74)

Colorado is filled with mountain towns boasting a deep history in mining. The

TRAIL-GAZETTE FILE

The welcome sign to Estes Park on U S 36 is covered in fresh snow

Entertainment lineup for Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival announced

By Visit Estes Park

For the Trail-Gazette

The lineup for Estes Park’s inaugural Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival features national and local live acts.

Three days of live music and entertainment over St Patrick’s Day weekend, March 17-19, 2023, will thrill festival goers with iconic favorites alongside fun, new additions.

The festival kicks off on Friday with an Irish Wake at Cousin Pat’s Pub & Grill and an Icebreaker event at Bond Park featuring music from A-Mac & The Height and Chain Station. These events are followed by the iconic Royal Blue Ball at The Stanley Hotel, featuring the Grandpa Bredo and Ice Queen costume contest. Live entertainment for the Royal Blue Ball includes:

The Polish Ambassador: This San Francisco-based EDM artist rocks more than just a trademark jumpsuit, bringing technicolor vibes to his thrilling performances.

Eddie Roberts and Friends: A funk and soul supergroup led by the front man of The New Mastersounds, Eddie Roberts.

Evanoff: A staple in the Colorado music scene, this guitar driven live-electronic trio is defined by a bold live show

full of sonic exploration

On Saturday, the party continues at the Estes Park Events Complex, including Coffin Races, the Brain Freeze Contest and a Deadman Fashion Show. Live entertainment includes:

Break Science: Pioneers of Colorado’s electronic music explosion, the Denver-based band brings together East Coast hip hop and futuristic sounds.

Magic Beans: Funk, soul, live electronica, and even

bluegrass music all find their way into this Colorado band’s eclectic live experience.

Bill & Jillian Nershi featuring Jason Hann: Founding member of jam-grass faves The String Cheese Incident, Bill Nershi teams up with Jillian Nershi and Jason Hann for adventurous Americana.

A-Mac & The Height: Colorado’s premiere Reggae Rock band, known for fusing their adventurous jam band spirit with an empowering and positive message.

Toubab Krewe: This Asheville, NC-based instrumental powerhouse fearlessly fuses the music of Mali with classic southern rock

Cycles: A Denver-based power trio, Cycles masterfully fuses an eclectic blend of genres (everything from hip hop to funk to rock) to produce a truly original sound.

Tenth Mountain Division: This Colorado group revives the soul, spirit and eclectic intersection of influences that birthed rock’n’roll, afresh for the modern ear.

Drunken Hearts: Evolving out of an an acoustic trio, Drunken Hearts have evolved into an electric five-piece that captivates audiences across the country

Shakedown Street: One of the greatest Grateful Dead tribute acts in the world, Shakedown Street is a perfect fit for Frozen Dead Guy Days.

Chain Station: A four-piece, high-energy, get ‘em-out-onthe-dance-floor stringband from the Front Range of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Tejon Street Corner Thieves: Hailing from the Colorado Rockies, this band plays an exciting mix of outlaw blues and “trash-grass.”

Banshee Tree: Combining the sounds of electric & acoustic instruments with a

Stanley Hotel is hub for Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival

By Matthew Poust mpoust@ prairiemountainmedia.com

In the midst of a cold winter’s haze The Stanley Hotel has found yet another way to bring a lively pulse to the otherwise somnolent valley that Estes Park falls into this time of year, and ironically enough that pulse was found in a frozen dead guy forty miles up the mountain

For those familiar with this Northwestern neck of the Colorado Rockies it may have been easy enough to sniff out that this new Stanley event is none other than Frozen Dead Guy Days the fabled cult festival that was held in neighboring Nederland for the last two decades

After Grandpa Bredo Morstoel’s aka frozen dead guy reputation outgrew his home gravesite in a town of 1,500 residents, The Stanley Owner and CEO John Cullen worked with Visit Estes Park

to purchase the festival from long-time owner and operator Amanda MacDonald

Set for March 17-19, Frozen Dead Guy Days is expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors to Estes and yield projected tax revenues of more than $500,000.

With The Stanley holding its own renowned touch of zany elegance, there’s no better spot to commence the dead guy days than the historic hotel itself with the Royal Blue Ball.

Referred to as “the ultimate resurrection kick off party,” the Royal Blue Ball will offer those in attendance a night of music, dancing and an opportunity to flaunt their best frozen dead guy face in a Grandpa Bredo and Ice Queen costume contest

Taking the main stage at the ball will be San Francisco-based electronic dance music sensation The Polish Ambassador, the guitar-driven livetronica trio Evanoff and the funk and soul scene fat cats

Eddie Roberts and Friends. Depsite the dead theme, this lineup of novel-genred acts will have the room elated.

The Royal Blue Ball will be held in The Stanley Concert Hall on Friday, March 17, with tickets available on https:// www.stanleyhotel.com/royalblueball html Those who choose to book their stay at The Stanley will get an exclusive BOGO offer on VIP Royal Blue Ball tickets and access to the ultimate after party at the hotel featuring a top DJ, Delicious appetizers and a cash bar.

In the plodding time that awaits before and after this new festival floods the Estes Valley, The Stanley still has a slate full of offerings to keep guests enthralled before the gladdening spring peaks its head.

217 Wine Bar

Located in the historic music room inside of The Stanley’s main lodge, visitors of

the 217 Wine Bar can sip from some of the finest wine selections in Estes Park while enjoying a front-row view of the snow-capped Rocky Mountain backdrop.

When attending the new spot, guests will have more than 50 wines to choose from while snacking on assorted charcuterie offerings prepared by the house Michelin Star chef in one of the many conversational areas that allow for a quaint, communal atmosphere.

217’s maître d’ regales his listeners with stories about the venerable old hotel and wine- parodied show tunes. A magnificent Steinway and Sons concert grand piano beneath a gold-leafed dome stands at the ready to fill the entire room with music.

Whiskey Bar and Lounge

Any guests craving more

WENDY RIGBY ESTES PARK TRAIL-GAZETTE

The Stanley Hotel will be a hub for the Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival

Estes Chamber welcomes Winter Getaway visitors

By Colleen DePasquale, Estes Chamber of Commerce

For the Trail-Gazette

Estes Park is bringing Frozen Dead Guy Days to the town, for the first time, and the Estes Chamber of Commerce member businesses are welcoming the festival-goers with open arms and special event activities.

Chamber members have created unique events for the festival, over St. Patrick’s Day weekend, including an “Irish Wake” at Cousin Pat’s Irish Pub & Grill, the Second Annual Beer Mile hosted by Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co and Avant Garde Aleworks, and the first Frozen Dead Guy

pool tournament at The Barrel. And for the Frozen artists, Snowy Peak Winery is hosting a pop-up wine bar at Creativity Cabin, where they will

design silk screens, to make your own festival-themed swag.

We are thrilled to death to also have multiple members participating in the Festival’s new addition, “Bands & Bloodys Sunday Brunch.” Each venue will have live music and assorted brunch offerings, you won’t want to miss. Stop in and close out your frozen weekend of fun by supporting small local businesses (and Chamber members): Cousin Pat’s Irish Pub & Grill, Bull Pin, Bird & Jim, The Barrel, Avant Garde Aleworks, and Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.

For a full list of all of the Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival activities, and to learn

more about lodging specials offered by Chamber businesses, check out the event website at https://frozendeadguydays.com.

Whether you are coming for the FDGF or the Whiskey Warm Up in early March, Bigfoot Days Festival in midApril, or for a romantic get away or some winter hiking, Estes Park offers something for everyone, the hiker, the shopper, the foodie, the wine or craft beer connisouir, and music lover. We hope you have a wonderful time and that you will come back and visit again soon.

Coleen DePasquale is the executive director of the Estes Chamber.

Colleen DePasquale

Craft, wine and art in Estes

By Wendy Rigby wrigby@ prairiemountainmedia com

In an unassuming-looking building at 292 Moraine Ave. in Estes Park, Snowy Peaks Winery is making reds, whites and rosés to sip in their tasting room, buy or take home or ship to friends

The grapes Snowy Peaks uses to make their delicious concoctions come from Pallisade on the western side of the state and Burlington on the east side of the state.

Two years aago there was a bad freeze in Pallisade and for the first time in their history, the winery had to bring in grapes from Washington State, said Tristian Coriell, tasting room manager and assistant winemaker at Snowy Peaks. “That’s the first time ever. Hopefully, it’s going to be the last time ever It’s good fruit, we just want to make sure we’re staying with Colorado grapes.”

Snowy Peaks produces 2627 varieties of wine from 18-19 different varietals of grapes. Some of those varietals will make a sweet wine and a dry win. Some will be blended. And since the winery does not have the facility to offload big trucks in Estes Park, the winery works in conjunction with BookCliff Winery in Boulder which also has its own vineyards.

The trucks of grapes are delivered to BookCliff The first step is sorting of the grapes by hand. Workers pull out the vineyard debris like stems, big leaves, over-ripe clusters of grapes, under-ripe clusters and the occasional rock. From there, the grapes go through a machine that plucks the fruit off the stems. Then the grapes go through a series of rollers that smash them into a pulpy slurry. The rest of the process is completed on site at Snowy Peak Winery in Estes Park.

Making white wine

If the workers are mak-

ing white wine or rosés, they press the grapes immediately and only ferment the juice. The wine press is filled to the top with grapes and the lid is closed. There is an air bladder in the center which is hooked up to an air compressor to make it squeeze outward.

“It’s a very simple process but there is a lot of technique to it,” Coreille noted. “If you squeeze it too lightly, You’re just wasting juice. If you squeeze it too hard, you actually crush the skins and seeds inside the grapes. That can lead to undesirable flavors ”

The juice flows out into a catch tray and it poured into a bucket. From there, it is pumped into huge stainless steel tanks. This is where fermentation occurs.

“We choose what type of years is going to get the best flavors for that particular type of grape,” Coriell stated.

“We also chill the white wines during fermentation. We try to keep it around 65 degrees.”

The white wine typically

takes three to four weeks to ferment. Workers use a tool called a hydrometer to tell if the wine is ready

Once the wine is finished fermenting, the yeast will die and settle to the bottom of the tank The wine is then pumped off into a clean tank a couple of times to clarify it.

Making red wine

Unlike white wine, red wine is not pressed until after fermentation The slurry is fermented for a week to 10 days with all of the skins, seeds and pulp

“We want the skins in there,” Coriell pointed out. “The color and a lot of the flavor in the red wines come from the skin. We also do not chill the fermentation of the reds We want that heat that’s generated by the yeast. The heat further helps to break down the skins and you get better extraction of color and flavor that way.”

Once the fermentation is complete, the wine is put into

the press After pressing, instead of putting it in tanks, the red wine is placed into barrels

“The majority of the barrels are French oak,” Coriell said. “We do use a couple of American oak barrels American oak has a lighter grain. It imparts a stronger, oaky flavor to the wine It’s a little bit bolder. French oak is a little bit more subtle.”

A myriad of factors affect the flavors the barrels impart to the wine, from the age of the barrel, the level of the inside charred toast of the barrel, the part of the tree the wood came from and even the forest in which the tree grew.

“Barrel aging wine is an art unto itself,” Coriell explained.

“The main purpose of the barrel is to provide a perfect aging environment for the wine. It’s called a micro-oxidative environment.”

Too much oxygen present on the wine will spoil the batch, basically turning

COURTESY PHOTO

Tristian Coriell is the tasting room manager and assistant winemaker at Snowy Peaks Winery.

Historic Park Theatre spring events

Spring Break events and Frozen Dead Guy Days specials are featured

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail.com

The Historic Park Theatre is hosting a number of special events during the days of Spring season and the warmly anticipated events of Frozen Dead Guy Days won’t pass by the Historic Park Theatre unrecognized.

During the FDGD event Mar. 17-19 the Historic Park Theatre is opening the storied white tower to the public with ghost stories and history tours during the day. Then if you dare, there will be two ghost hunting tours, first at 10 p.m. and then the midnight hour. In these ghost

hunts the tour guide will help a limited group “talk” to the other side via the Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) tool and seek their energy profiles with the Instrumental

Trans-Communication (ITC) resonance detector. There is a change you recognize a contactee, you just never know who will show up! Could it be that Grandpa Bredo will re-

turn for the festivities?

Each evening will also feature the art of Bekah Blackburn, known famously for the dolls she sells, she will also be performing truly psychic readings in the lobby. Her horrific dolls seem to pull the true essence of their being up to the surface of their porcelain, that being the tragic pain behind their lifeless facade. She hand-crafts the dolls and makes stuffed dolls as well

On the silver screen, A Night of the Living Dead (1968) will repremier at 7:30 p m Fri-Sat and 4:30 p m on Sun. The plot follows a disparate group who take refuge in an abandoned house when corpses begin to leave the graveyard in search of fresh human bodies to devour.

During the heyday of movie theaters the Estes Park The-

FILE PHOTO ESTES PARK TRAIL-GAZETTE

The Historic Park Theatre is lit up at night.

Mustang Mountain Coaster rides again

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail.com

As the weather gets warmer the Mustang Mountain Coaster in Estes Park

stays open longer Currently the coaster is rolling only on Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on the weekends 10 a m to 4 p m However starting after the first two week-

ends in March the Mustang Mountain Coaster will be open during the weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Please note that a number of days are still scheduled to

be closed until May Starting in May the hours stay the same until September. For details visit the website at www.mustangmountaincoastercom and visit the 2023 calendar link.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Mustang Mountain Coaster offers more than 2,000feet of twists and turns as it travels down the mountain

Joy House supports special community

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail.com

Joy House in Estes Park is a special shop that was founded on a truly special person’s amazing spirit. Seth Truitt has Down syndrome and a special ability to give heart-warming optimism in every way, every day

At Joy House they sell Seth’s hand-made art and other specially-abled people’s craft gifts In so being, the shop has become a hub for the special needs community as a line of support as well as a pipeline for volunteers, employment opportunities, and retail space for craft makers

Joy House is growing in many different ways. Stay tuned for there will be details to come.

Currently Joy House is seeking an Estes Park local who is compassionate and who loves our special community. Someone who would like to be a part of the Joy House mission to work at the store.

In addition to that parttime position, Joy House would also like to find a volunteer who can assist the Estes Park special needs community with crafts which can be sold in the store.

A long-term goal on rada the Joy House radar is to organize a group that would

meet on a monthly basis to help build a network of love and support for our Estes Park adult special needs community.

Surprisingly, there is no such group in this beautiful mountain town If you are interested, please contact Marla Truitt at joyhousestore@gmail.com.

Please reach out if you know any local adults who have special needs who might be interested in growing a great group.

The Joy House in Estes Park has moved to the second floor of Park Place Mall on Elkhorn Avenue

National Park Village adds Great Divide

By Daniel Sewell sewelld@eptrail com

National Park Village at 900 Moraine Ave. is a full-service stop on the way to the South entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park the perfect place to fuel up and/ or recharge before/after those out there adventures!

Beyond the Conoco gas station and EV Connect chargers are three grand buildings that make up the National Park Village The Wayfinder Restaurant has beautiful views of the rocky mountains from their dining room’s picturesque windows which look out to a deck that hangs over a private pond which the ducks, elk and deer alike are quite fond of.

On the main building there is a new center peak to the roofline that divides the Mad Moose retail store and the Country Market grocery store. Not pictured here, to the east of the main building is Spur Liquor and the Laundracenter.

DANIEL SEWELL ESTES PARK TRAIL-GAZETTE

The National Park Village at 900Moraine Ave is located on the way to the south entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park In February 2023, the entry foyer was renovated to include the peak as a reflection of the natural surroundings.

DANIEL SEWELL ESTES PARK TRAIL-GAZETTE

The Country Super Market is a full service grocery store with fresh produce, diary,

cheeses, local meats and other convenience items

Things to do at the Estes Valley Community Center

By Estes Valley Recreation

There’s lots to see and do in Estes Park before the summer season! If the weather isn’t cooperating, the Community Center (the Rec), located at 660 Community Drive, has some great opportunities for fun and activity for all ages.

For swimmers: You will love our Aquatic Center with a lap pool and dive well in addition to a leisure pool, lazy river and hot tub

There are drop-in water walking and aqua aerobics classes and Red Cross swim instruction too

For weight and cardio enthusiasts: We have a weight

Guests enjoy

at the recreation center.

room, TRX® area, cardio machines and fitness equipment There are also drop-in yoga

CENTER » PAGE 20

EVRPD COURTESY PHOTO

a cardio workout

EVRPD COURTESY PHOTO

You can swim, jog, lift weights, or enjoy youth and adult sports at The Rec

of a stiff beverage will have to travel just across the main lobby to the Whiskey Bar and Lounge at the Cascades Restaurant. With more than 1,200 selections to choose from, the bar boasts the largest variety of whiskeys and single malt scotches in Colorado inclusions that earned it a spot on Men’s Journal’s top ten list of “Best hotel whiskey collections to sample around the world,” this past December. Whether sipping on the house favorite 291 smoked old fashioned or the signature redrum punch, this spot provides the perfect remedy for melting away that Colorado cold

The Vault

Looking for something more exclusive in your whiskey tasting? Look no further than The Vault.

Located on the lower level of the main lodge, The Vault will be any whiskey connoisseur’s dream come true with a room full of single barrels and

To do

FROM PAGE 8

Estes Park area, however, never saw the riches of other mining districts, rather focusing more on the recreation opportunities provided by the surrounding mountains Step into the pages of Estes Park’s history by visiting the Estes Park Museum, where visitors can learn about the characters of the region’s past from the adventurous to the shrewd to the conservationists that shaped the town into what it is today. (Thing #84)

The Stanley Hotel was built by F.O. Stanley and his wife, Flora, and opened in 1909. But their summer home, located to the west of the hotel, is five years older and still maintains a feel for the Stanley’s posh style of

special bottles a majority of which are one of less than 200 in existence. The Vault offers private, curated tastings, exploring interesting whiskey history, classifications and tips on the best way to enjoy the drink.

When it comes to spooky allure, The Stanley’s reputation precedes it. Made infamous for being the inspiration behind Stephen King’s thrilling novel and film adaptation, The Shining, the past spirits that roam the hotel halls are rumored to be as active as the live ones.

Spirited Night Tour

Guests have the opportunity to chase this rumored afterlife in the spirited night tours offered after dark. In this chilling attraction, tour members are led through the dark edges of the hotel by a knowledgeable storyteller to learn the history of the establishment and see if they can’t come away with some spirited encounters of their own.

Spirited Shining Tour

Fans of Stephen King’s Stanley-based literature and cinema work might also en-

the time Used by the Stanley’s until his death in 1940, the home is now a museum that emphasizes and preserves the story about this influential couple that had a tremendous impact on Estes Park (Thing #85)

Finally, to round out a visit to Estes Park, and taste a blast of summer on a snowy winter day, why not try something that seems so out of place in the mountains saltwater taffy Developed on the East Coast, this gooey, melt-in-yourmouth treat has found a home in Estes Park with many shops selling the sugary snack but only two making the product in town (Thing #93)

To purchase a copy of the book, visit DawnWilsonPhotography. com or local gift shops throughout Estes Park

joy taking part in The Shining Tour This experience will take tour members through the West Side of the Stanley Campus, both indoors and out, as they dive into the Stephen King theme, history and loads of spirited stories. This tour offers guests a chance to see the notorious “here comes Johnny” axe and the fully restored 1909 Caretaker’s Cottage located just past the hotel’s main gates with its replica bathroom from one of The Shining’s most hair-raising scenes. For cinema and history buffs this tour can’t be missed

Magic show and séance

For those who want a closer encounter with the afterlife, adult guests have a chance to catch world-famous illusionist, Aiden Sinclair’s Underground shows and seances, hidden beneath the original Carriage house. Audience members of the Underground show will experience a oncein-a-lifetime showcasing of interactive magic shows that break the boundaries between fantasy and reality.

The séance, on the other hand, attempts to break the

boundaries between the afterlife and the present by using bell, book and candle to communicate with the supernatural and have audience members’ questions answered

Winter adventures

While all of these offerings could pack a person’s itinerary for a weekend getaway to the Estes Valley, some guests may want to get their fill of thrill in all the snow-packed adventures that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. That’s why The Stanley teamed up with internationally renowned outdoor adventure experts, Kent Mountain Adventure Center to create Rocky Mountain adventure activities packages With snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter summit scaling, skiing, split boarding and ice climbing on the menu, these packages offer the perfect opportunities for beginners and experts alike to get their fix.

For information regarding ticket sales, package deals, reservations or time inquires, please visit https://www.stanleyhotel.com/colorado-winter-vacation-adventures html

FROM PAGE 19

and fitness classes available.

For rec sport fans: There are opportunities for drop-in basketball, volleyball and pickleball games throughout the week.

For golfers: The Community Center is getting a new Golf Simulator, and we are having a SimGolf Master’s event to celebrate! You will play two rounds at Augusta before April 11. The format will be net stroke play with gimme puts inside 7 feet. You will use your SIM or GHIN handicap Open to ages 16 and up; $25/player.

For 55+: We have a program called Elevated Connection for the 55+crowd. It features various classes and games such as Great Courses®, Mahjong, Wii Bowling and coffee

time as well.

For family reunions, receptions and conferences: We have venues for your events ranging from picnic shelters to conference rooms with a commercial kitchen, classroom and game room.

We would love to see you at the Rec! Scan the QR code or visit evrpd.com for info including admission rates, schedules, class descriptions and registration links

Scan this QR Code to visit the EVRPD website

Estes Park history with craft beverage manufacturing

Estes Park Trail-Gazette Staff

The legal history of booze in Estes Park started in the 90’s as the Micro-Brew trend began. We had an opportunity to speak with Randy Hunt, the former community development director for the town of Estes Park, to learn about the history of the brewing and distilling here in Estes Park.

It all started back in 1994 when Estes Park Brewery had a business license issued by the city opened by local entrepreneur and businessman Ed Grueff. When asked about the experience of opening the

first Brewery in town, he tells us, “It was exciting. I have always enjoyed opening busi-

nesses, but the biggest key was to educate people about micro-brew beer. Most peo-

ple were not familiar with it.” They started by bringing in Raspberry Wheat and some lighter beers to get people introduced to microbrews.

From there, demand kept growing, and the city began to rethink its regulations in regards to alcohol production. The significant change to city code that allowed microbreweries and micro-distilleries came in 2013 Before this change, the only alcohol production had to be attached to a restaurant serving food

With that stand-alone breweries and distilleries were welcomed and now there are 3 micro-breweries, 2 distilleries, and a win-

HISTORY » PAGE 22

COURTESY PHOTO

The viewing area of the Estes Park Brewery is adjacent to the dining room and arcade/pool tables

Sloan said he invested about a quarter of a million dollars of what was supposed to be his retirement money into the chargers and related construction. He received an $18,000 state grant to use for the slower chargers

Sosinov said the fast charger, what FreeWire calls its Boost Charger, integrates a storage battery that allows the unit to be plugged into the existing grid without a lot of expensive upgrades. Recharging takes about 15 to 20 min-

History

FROM PAGE 21

ery, all of which bring their locally-sourced ingredients to Estes Park. Interestingly enough there were a few loopholes that helped Snowy Peaks Winery begin producing at 292 Moraine Ave. back in 2005.

After the change in code regulation, which was approved unanimously by the town board in Jul of 2014, the first establishment to open was Lumpy Ridge Brewery in Jul. of 2015, Rock Cut Brewing Co opened on Aug 29th a month later. The first micro-distillery, Elkins Distillery, opened its doors on Jul. 4th, of 2016. Avant Garde Aleworks also opened on Jul.

Craft

FROM PAGE 14

it into vinegar over time. No oxygen and the wine will not soften. A barrel is designed to allow an optimal little bit of oxygen through, letting the wine breathe a little bit and aiding in the softening and aging of the wine.

“The lighter varietals only need about a year to soften,” Coriell said.

“Some of the really bold,

utes.

If a charger is used four to six times a day, the investment should pay for itself in three to five years, Sosinov said FreeWire, based in San Leandro, Calif., expects to open an advanced technology center in Colorado. Spokeswoman Laurie Peters said in an email the company will announce details in early 2022

“My vision is I’ll probably have four (ultra-fast) chargers in the future,” Sloan said “As more and more electric vehicles come online, I want to be there to help encourage it.”

There are several place in Estes Park you can charge

4th, of 2019.

The latest to begin operations is the Estes Park Distillery, which opened May of 2022. Better known as the Full Throttle Saloon, the distillery is operating out of two buildings downtown-technically three if you count Bob & Tony’s Pizza and the High Country Gifts shop as two, which are now connected inside. The third is just up the street on Moraine Ave where the furniture store used to be. Now there’s a brand new Saloon with an indoor/outdoor bar right next to The Barrel and just down the street from Snowy Peaks Winery and a little further down is Rockcut Brewery and just over the bridge is Estes Park Brewery! Check out the map to make a full Estes Park craft beverage tour.

really tannic red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Petit Syrah hang out in the barrel for about two years.”

Snowy Peaks is in an old Ferrellgas building that has been added on to. Find out more about the winery or order some bottles for yourself at snowypeakswinery.com.

For some added fun, Snowy Peaks and Creativity Cabin will join forces on March 17 for a Sip and Paint event with special Frozen Dead Guy artwork

your electric car:

• Tesla Supercharger, 333 E. Wonderview Ave. at the Stanley Hotel.

• ChargePoint Charging Station, 335 W Elkhorn Ave at the Estes Valley Library.

• EV Connect Charging Station, 900 Moraine Ave , National Park Village.

• Silver Moon Inn, 200 Spruce Drive.

• Best Western Plus Silver Saddle, 1260 Big Thompson Ave.

• Quality Inn, 1450 Big Thompson Ave.

• Tesla Destination Charger, 430 Prospect Village Drive, at Sweet Bascilico.

• Tesla Destination Char-

Lineup

FROM PAGE 9

diverse blend of dance, jam and jazz, Banshee Tree creates a frenzied, earthy music.

Brothers of Brass: The only New Orleans brass band in Colorado, Brothers of Brass bring a Big Easy party with them wherever they go.

Flash Mountain Flood: A five-piece Boulder-based psychedelic rock n’ roll jam band Flash Mountain Flood is committed to preserving American roots music

The Pamlico Sound:

FROM PAGE 15

atre was a special place to premiere and they would host some of the most famous characters of the past. While movie theaters aren’t the only hub for video anymore, like the newspaper they are still a great resource for a community

The local Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies will be performing a Story Slam on Saturday, April 1, doors at 6:30 p.m., hosted by Nick Ross and sponsored by KUNC, it’s open to any fool wise enough

ger, 2120 Fall River Road.

• Tesla Destination Charger, 1700 CO-66 (at Beaver Brook on the River).

• Blink Charging Station, 3110 S St Vrain Ave

• ChargePoint Charging Station, Mountainside Drive (YMCA of the Rockies)

• ChargePoint Charging Station, 2515 Tunnel Road.

The Town’s public charging stations are located on the east side of the Town’s parking structure at 691 N. Saint Vrain Ave / U S 36 (Level 2), on the north side of the Town Hall parking lot, 335 E. Elkhorn Ave. (Level 2), and at 500 Big Thompon Ave. at the Estes Park Visitor Center, (Level 3).

Bringing the funk wherever they perform, The Pamlico Sound have been electrifying Colorado’s Front Range for more than a decade now.

Living Room Band: A lively, Colorado-based band that covers everything from classic rock to reggae to funk

Sunday features a Bands & Bloodys Brunch, where local bands will play at several brunch locations around town. This lineup will be announced shortly.

Buy tickets, see the full schedule of events and stay up-to-date on the latest news related to the festival by visiting frozendeadguydays com.

to do public speaking. Just drop your name in the hat to perform personal, true stories only, set to the theme of Spring.

On the same day, the first in a full series of Met Opera shows will stream on the silver screen at 10:55 a.m. premiering the Falstaff a glorious Shakespearean comedy for the Historic Park Theatre’s timeless auditorium and superb surround sound system.

Visit their website to see the full list of showtimes at www.historicparktheatre. com or to make a Tour reservation please call 970-5868904

The view from here is... Wow-

Winter is in full swing in Estes Park. The air is crisp and the smell of pines fills the air. Whether you're looking to get cozy by a fire, go on a snowshoe adventure or stroll a picturesque downtown, you can have it all and more with a winter trip to Estes Park.

Start planning at VisitEstesPark.com