EVENT RECAP: LEFT HAND BREWING COMPANY’S HOPS + HANDRAILS

A mix of overcast and blues skies provided the backdrop for Left Hand Brewing Company’s Hops + Handrails event. Part beer fest, part rail jam, part concert, part fundraiser, part massive community block party, the crowds came out in droves and spread out throughout Longmont’s Roosevelt Park over the weekend to celebrate this funky and fun event. In it’s fifth year, Hops + Handrails once again bid winter adieu and welcomed spring, and the warm Colorado sunshine for the season. From skiers and snowboarders throwing down tricks on the massive snowboard ramp, to 60+ craft breweries from around the country pouring killer craft beers, to festival-goers relaxing in hot tubs in the VIP section, to the Chris Robinson Brotherhood closing out the festivities, here’s a look at this year’s Hops + Handrails event.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: GETTING ELEVATED

Surrounded by a sea of greening grass stands a towering mountain of snow — a larger than life reminder of the changing of the seasons. It’s Left Hand Brewing Company’s Hops + Handrails event. Snowboarders and skiers soar through the air, leaving a trail of glittering snow that trickles down over the sandal-wearing, t-shirt-clad group of beer drinkers below. Part craft beer festival, part rail jam, part concert, part block party — it’s the Colorado craft beer industry’s unofficial farewell to the cold weather months, and highly-anticipated welcome to the busy beer festival season ahead.

Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends. 

TEMPERATURE RISING

On a cold and hazy winter day in Salt Lake City, Utah, members from all different walks of the outdoor industry left their posts inside of the busy Outdoor Retailer Winter Market to gather together to talk about one thing: climate change. Led by three hard-charging leaders in the climate change fight, the Outdoor Industry Association’s “You Can’t Do Business on a Dead Planet” panel wasn’t filled with shocking new information about the Earth. It’s burning up. But anyone with senses knows that.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2016 was the hottest year on record, coming in at nearly two degrees Fahrenheit above the 20th century average. And there’s no indication that the record-breaking temperatures being recorded across the planet each year are on course to reverse anytime soon. So instead of lamenting about what we already know, the panel, consisting of Chris Steinkamp, executive director of Protect Our Winters; Luke Cartin, environmental sustainability manager for Park City, Utah; and Anne Kelly, the senior program director for public policy and director of the Business for Innovative Climate and Energy Policy (BICEP) program at Ceres, focused on action.

“There isn’t really time to discuss this anymore,” Steinkamp said as he addressed the engaged crowd of flannel-clad attendees. “We know the problem, and we know the solution. We can’t dance around this anymore.”

Steinkamp’s place on the panel represented the voice of the outdoor industry, a powerful force in the U.S. economy responsible for $646 billion in annual consumer spending and 6.1 million direct jobs. As a community, the outdoor industry has always been vocal about protecting the planet—the place where they do business. But it’s not just the CEOs of major companies in the industry, like Black Diamond and Patagonia that have recently taken a more vocal stance on climate change action (the show announced last month that it is leaving the state due its intractable stance on public lands). Only five months into his new role as the city’s Environmental Sustainability Manager, Luke Cartin announced Park City’s climate goals to reduce the ski town’s carbon footprint to zero and transition the city’s energy grid to 100-percent renewable energy by 2032 for everything within city limits.

Located in a state where the official rock is coal, Cartin has set ambitious goals to create a sustainable future. And his enthusiasm and drive have been infectious. Following Park City’s climate announcement, officials in Salt Lake City announced that they, too, would work to achieve a goal of 100-percent clean energy by 2032—which for the largest city in a state predominantly powered by coal—is an encouraging sign.

The past four years have also brought  encouraging signs from Washington D.C., which give key players in the fight against climate change hope for the future. During the Obama’s presidency, the Environmental Protection Agency introduced the Clean Power Plan, aiming to strengthen and support the trend towards clean American energy by reducing carbon pollution from power plants. Just prior to leaving office, Obama officially entered the United States into the Paris Agreement—within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to double down on halting the effects of climate change on a global level. President Obama also sent an encouraging message to the outdoor industry when he signed the Outdoor REC Act into law. The bill ensures that the outdoor industry’s economic impact is recognized by the U.S. government and accounted for as part of the gross domestic product (GDP), putting the industry on the same footing as extractive industries when it comes to government accounting. But perhaps the most important thing the Obama administration did to battle climate change was acknowledge it.

On January 20, 2017, Donald J. Trump was sworn into office as America’s 45th president. Before announcing his historic bid for the highest seat in the country, Trump shared his diagnosis of climate change with a 2012 tweet: “The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive.” His stance on the topic didn’t waver much as his controversial campaign charged across the country. As the election unfolded, tension rose throughout outdoor community as a potential Trump presidency became reality.

Trump has wasted no time making good on the pro-fossil fuels stance he built a good portion of his campaign on. The new president nominated Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt to head up the EPA—an agency Pruitt has sued 13 times and condemned for overestimating air pollution from natural gas drilling. Pruitt was approved by the Senate in February. In the first three hours of his presidential term, Trump erased President Obama’s Climate Action Plan from the White House website, replacing it with An America First Energy Plan “committed to eliminating harmful and unnecessary policies such as the Climate Action Plan” and taking advantage of “untapped shale, oil and natural gas reserves, especially those on federal lands.”

Regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, numbers don’t lie. Things aren’t looking good for the future of the planet. Winter seasons are getting shorter and wetter. Forty-six states in the U.S. reported above-average temperatures during the 2015/2016 winter season. The last decade has seen a rise in wildfires, with the Forest Service estimating an average of more than 73,000 wildfires burning roughly seven million acres of federal, tribal, state and private land. Soars in annual average temps will incite droughts, which will not only affect water resources for millions of Americans, but jobs and income as well.

So are we doomed? With so much political turmoil and uncertainty surrounding the climate change issue, and the impact of climate change becoming more visible around the world, is there still hope for the planet? The outdoor industry’s collective response is a resounding yes. Immediately following the election, organizations like the Sierra Club and the Outdoor Industry Association issued powerful statements to that they would fight harder than ever for the welfare of the planet, firing up and mobilizing supporters across the country.

“Right after the election, people came out of the woodwork, looking for ways to get involved,” said Steinkamp. “There has been an outpouring of enthusiasm and energy for climate action, which was the silver lining of this election.” Steinkamp and his team of volunteer ambassadors and climate activists at Protect Our Winters are changing their strategy for moving the needle in Washington D.C. on climate change. “The idea of signing letters and sending petitions to Washington is kind of old school,” he said. “We’ve got to dial up our activism beyond what we’ve ever done.” For Steinkamp and crew, this means an ambitious game plan for 2017 that focuses on engaging the people behind the big money in the outdoor industry to join forces with POW and demand climate action in Washington.

For Luke Cartin and Park City, a positive change in climate action on a city and state level is brewing, spawning more energy behind the movement than ever before. “Because we set these ambitious goals, there’s that sense of urgency, and that sense of urgency has actually led to a sense of excitement,” said Cartin. “We’re making great headway, and we’re doing it in a state that isn’t putting all of these sustainability incentives out there. So the response is, if we’re doing it in Utah, then we hope to be a road map to other cities in the country. Now is the time to take action.”

Tyra Sutak is a freelance writer based out of her van and the digital editor of Elevation Outdoors.

BEST OF ROCKIES 2017

How is it even possible to choose the best businesses, destinations and events in the Rocky Mountain Region? 

We trust our readers. So we asked them to nominate and then vote with their hearts in categories in a region that includes Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. Of course, there is no one single best out there, but the winners here garnered the love and admiration of the people who trust this magazine as their source to go outside and play.

BUSINESSES

Best Outdoor-based Company to Work for

American Adventure Expeditions — Buena Vista, CO

The infectious stoke level of the company’s well educated and happily employed guides, keeps them coming back to work here. americanadventure.com
Runners Up: Verde Brand Communications, Outdoor Industry Association

Best Après Spot

The Jailhouse Craft Beer Bar — Buena Vista, CO

Craft beer and jail? It’s a match made in heaven. Plus, the combination of an exceptional beer list and history and decor put this spot over the top.
thejailhousebv.com
Runners Up: T-Bar Steamboat, Upslope Brewing Company

Best Bike Retail Shop

Orange Peel Bicycle — Steamboat Spring, CO

It’s no surprise this local’s favorite in Bike Town USA won. orangepeelbikes.com
Runners Up: Absolute Bikes, Cycles of Life Leadville

Best Bike Guide Service

Beer and Bike Tours — Fort Collins, CO

What better way to explore a town than hopping on a bike? Throw in stops at breweries along the way, and you have a winner. beerandbiketours.com
Runners Up: At Your Pace, Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides

Best Brewery

Ska Brewing Company — Durango, CO

When you make some of the best beer in the region and call Durango home, you’re practically a shoo-in for best brewery. skabrewing.com
Runners Up: Elevation, Upslope

Best Cidery

Colorado Cider Company — Denver, CO

Ciders aren’t just a passing fad or craft beer’s weird younger sibling anymore. This Denver producer topped our list. coloradocider.com
Runners Up: Big B’s, C Squared

Best Climbing Guide Service

Pikes Peak Alpine School — Colorado Springs, CO

Pikes Peak Alpine School gets newbies and vets out on snow, rock and ice. Plus, they offer avalanche safety classes. pikespeakalpineschool.com
Runners Up: San Juan Mountain Guides, Vetta Mountain Guide

Best Climbing Gym

CityROCK — Colorado Springs, CO

Forty-three-foot walls, 3,500 square feet of bouldering surface area, 15,000 square feet of roped climbing and a specially designed area for kids put CityROCK over the top. climbcityrock.com
Runners Up: EarthTreks, Movement

Best Coffee Shop

The Buena Vista Roastery and Café — Buena Vista, CO

Sustainably-minded coffee in one of Colorado’s best towns is a winner. Be sure to sign up for the shop’s awesome coffee-of-the-month membership. bvroastery.com
Runners Up: Camp 4 Coffee, City on a Hill Coffee

Best Dispensary

Terrapin Care Station — CO

Terrapin offers a variety of homegrown strains, and serves communities throughout Colorado. terrapincarestation.com
Runners Up: Nature’s Medicine, LivWell

Best Distillery

Wyoming Whiskey — Kirby, WY

This independent, family-owned distillery makes damn good whiskey. wyomingwhiskey.com
Runners Up: Deerhammer, Woods

Best Hiking Guide
Aspen Alpine Guides — Aspen, CO

Hut trips, avy courses, winter programs, summer programs—Aspen Alpine Guides offers it all. aspenalpine.com
Runners Up: Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides, Glacier Guides

Best Outdoor Gear Brand

Voormi — Pagosa Springs, CO

If you’ve ever donned one of Voormi’s thoughtfully-crafted and comfortable pieces of apparel, you’ll understand why. voormi.com
Runners Up: Melanzana, Big Agnes

Best Outdoor App

ViewRanger

ViewRanger wowed readers by continuing to be the most innovative GPS app out there. viewranger.com
Runners Up: Mountain Project, Open Snow

Best Outdoor Job Title

Gear Tester

Why, we happen to be quite familiar with that term.
Runners Up: raft guide, avalanche forecaster

Best Outdoor Retail Shop

Mountain Chalet — Colorado Springs, CO

New owners have breathed new vitality into this icon in the Springs. mountainchalet.com
Runners Up: CKS Main, Bentgate Mountaineering

Best Outdoor Start-Up

Mountain Standard — Boulder, CO

This Boulder-based brand is selling directly to the consumer, keeping the cost for their high-quality goods awesomely low. mountainstandard.com
Runners Up: Grass Sticks, Gociety

Best Restaurant

Hell’s Backbone Grill — Boulder, UT

It’s in one of the most remote towns in the country, but it’s home to one of the most celebrated restaurants in the West. hellsbackbonegrill.com
Runners Up: House Rock Kitchen, Bin 707 Grand Junction

Best Running Retail Shop

Twisted Trails — Steamboat, CO

Weekly “beer runs” and top-of-the-line gear and helpful staff earned this small town shop the nod. twistedtrailsrunning.com
Runners Up: Oxygen Hog, Boulder Running Company

Best Whitewater Guide Service

AVA Colorado Rafting

From whitewater rafting trips for beginners, to advanced epic expeditions, AVA has an excellent reputation in the adventure community. coloradorafting.net 
Runners Up: American Adventure Expeditions, RMOC

Best Winery

Vino Salida — Salida, CO

Vino Salida serves up house-made wines and wine cocktails seven days a week. vinosalida.com
Runners Up: Two Rivers Winery, Infinite Monkey Theorem

Best Yoga Studio

Colorado School of Yoga  — Boulder, CO
This studio puts the focus on training teachers to better help us walk in the world. coloradoschoolofyoga.org
Runners Up: Jala Blue, Freeman Yoga

Best Non-Profit

UpaDowna — Colorado Springs, CO
This inclusive non-profit’s mission is to provide access to outdoor adventures for all through events and programs that empower individuals, create healthier communities, and foster a respect for the environment. upadowna.org
Runners Up: Southwest Utah Wilderness Alliance, First Descents

Photo Credit: Trent Bona/CBMR

DESTINATIONS

Best Adventure Park

Browns Canyon Adventure Park — Buena Vista, CO

You have to love 66 unique obstacles and seven different zip lines.
brownscanyonadventurepark.com
Runners Up: Glenwood Springs Adventure Park, CO; Royal Gorge Adventure Park, CO

Best Climbing Crag

Shelf Road — CO

Climbers of all levels can hone their skills on 800+ routes at one of the most well maintained rock climbing areas in the country.
Runners Up: Indian Creek, UT; Eldorado Canyon, CO

Best Bouldering Area

Vedauwoo — Wyoming

Know best for its off-widths, Vedauwoo has a huge variety of bouldering problems and few crowds.
Runners Up: Joe’s Valley, UT, Clear Creek Canyon, CO

Best Hiking Trail

Mill Castle Trail — Gunnison, CO

This epic trail takes you through the West Elk Wilderness with a steep ascent over Storm Pass at 12,440 feet.
Runners Up: Copper Lake/East Maroon Pass, Aspen, CO; Emerald Lake, MT

Best Running Trail

Snodgrass — Crested Butte, CO

With an elevation gain of 1,421 feet, this six-mile out-and-back is a perfect, moderate-level trail run.
Runners Up: Soldier Ridge Trail, Sheridan, WY, Bridger Ridge, MT

Best Whitewater Run

The Numbers — Arkansas River, CO

One of the best Class IV+ rapids along the Arkansas River, the Numbers is made up of seven major rapids in just under six miles.
Runners Up: Oh Be Joyful, Crested Butte, CO, Snake River, WY

Best SUP Spot

Buena Vista Whitewater Park — Buena Vista, CO

With five main whitewater structures catering to all ability levels, the whitewater park runs through downtown Buena Vista.
Runners Up: Lower Gunnison from Pleasure Park Down, CO; Ruby Horsethief, CO/UT

Best Campground

Hopi Campground — Snow Mountain Ranch, CO

Open to tents or van lifers this camp takes full advantage of Snow Mountain Ranch’s facilities. snowmountainranch.org
Runners Up: Fruita, Capitol Reef, UT; Goblin Valley, UT

Best Dog Friendly Outdoor Destination

Gunnison, CO

Many of Gunnison’s hotels are happy to welcome your furry friends—then get out and play together.
Runners Up: Pagosa Springs, CO, and Boulder, CO (TIE)

Best Fly Fishing River

Arkansas, CO

With 102 river miles, the Arkansas River claims one of the longest stretches of Gold Medal water in North America.
Runners Up: Madison, MT; Rio Grande, NM

Best Kid Friendly Outdoor Destination

Snow Mountain Ranch, CO

This YMCA facility near Winter Park has a plethora of activities for all ages, all year round. Activities include whitewater rafting, ziplining, horseback riding, winter dog sledding, fat bike rentals, you name it. snowmountainranch.org
Runners Up: Buena Vista, CO; Vail Adventure Ridge, CO

Best Mountain Biking Trail

Doctor Park — Crested Butte, CO

This 19.3 mile fun ride gives intermediate to downhill riders the thrills they seek.
Runners Up: Lunch Loops, Grand Junction, CO; RAT Trails, Ridgway, CO

Best Mountain Summit

Mt. Princeton, CO

Towering over the Arkansas River Valley at 14, 197 feet, Mt. Princeton is a burly but rewarding hike. From the main trailhead outside of Buena Vista, climb 5,400 feet in just under 7 miles.
Runners Up: Mt. Sneffels, CO; Longs Peak, CO

Best Place for Outdoor Singles to Live

Fort Collins, CO

With a vibrant nightlife and a flourishing craft brew scene, it’s the perfect place to expand your social circle and maybe you will meet that special someone.
Runners Up: Golden, CO; Bozeman, MT

Best Road Bike Ride

Cottonwood Pass, CO

At 12,126 feet, Cottonwood Pass is the third highest paved road in Colorado. Steep switchbacks and breathtaking scenery make it an iconic and challenging ride.
Runners Up: Colorado National Monument CO; Independence Pass, CO

Best Ski/Snowboard Resort

Crested Butte Mountain Resort — Crested Butte, CO

With 15 lifts and 121 trails, Crested Butte has no shortage of fun terrain for all ability levels. Skiing not your thing? Take a snowshoe tour, rent a fat bike, or enjoy CBMR’s adventure park. skicb.com
Runners Up: Copper Mountain, CO; Big Sky, MT

Best Inbounds Ski/Snowboard Terrain

Crested Butte Mountain Resort — Crested Butte, CO

Not only did CB win all-around best resort, it also took home the honors when it comes to the best terrain in area, thanks, no doubt, to classic gnarly stuff like the Headwall and Teocalli Bowl. skicb.com
Runners Up: Palmyra Peak, Telluride, CO; Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY (TIE)

Best Terrain Park

Breckenridge Ski Resort — Breckenridge, CO

With 14 jumps, 75 rails, boxes, wallrides, jibs and bonks along with a 22-foot superpipe, Breck’s terrain parks aren’t messing around. breckenridge.com
Runners Up: Woodward at Copper Mountain, CO; Area 51 Keystone, CO

Best Urban Park

Palmer Park — Colorado Springs, CO

Sitting on 740 acres, smack dab in the middle of Colorado Springs, Palmer Park has 25 miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and an off-leash dog park. cospringstrails.com
Runners Up: Kendrick Park, Sheridan, WY; Fairmont Park, Salt Lake City, UT

Best Water Park

Buena Vista Whitewater Park — Buena Vista, CO

Kayakers, stand up paddlers and picnickers alike will tell you that the Buena Vista Whitewater Park is one of the best spots in the state. Hit the shops and eats on South Main when you are done playing. southmainco.com
Runners Up: Green River Whitewater Park, WY; Montrose Water Park, CO

Best Wilderness Area

Indian Peaks Wilderness, CO

Here you get 76,711 acres of lakes, waterfalls, and jagged peaks claiming elevations ranging from 8,300 to 13,500 feet, all within a short drive from Denver.
Runners Up: Frank Church-River of No Return, ID; Bridger, WY

Paddle the best whitewater of Browns Canyon on the Arkansas. Photo Credit: Scott Peterson

EVENTS

Best Beer Festival

Chili and Beer — Crested Butte, CO

The only thing that can beat beer: chili! Saturday, Sept 9, 2017. cbchamber.com/events/beer-and-chili-festival
Runners Up: Colorado Cider and Beer Circus, Copper Mountain, CO; Breckenridge Beer Fest, Breckenridge, CO (TIE)

Best Climbing Event

Ouray Ice Festival — Ouray, CO

There is no bigger celebration of the sport of ice climbing on the planet and no better place to enjoy it than at this ice park made for and by climbers. January 2018.
ourayicepark.com/ouray-ice-festival
Runners Up: WSCU Climbing Comps, Gunnison, CO; International Climbers Festival, Lander, WY

Best Costumed Event

Steamboat Springs Mustache Ride — Steamboat, Colorado

Yes, it’s a pub crawl in costume, but it’s also a fundraiser for the Routt County Humane Society. Oct. 7, 2017. ssmustacheride.com
Runners Up: Al Johnson Telemark Race, Crested Butte, CO; Tour de Fat, Fort Collins, CO

Best Cyclocross Race

New Mexico Cyclocross Series

With races across the state, this comprehensive series has something for every level of rider. mcyclocross.com
Runners Up: Ogden Cyclocross, UT; Waffle Cross, Boise, ID (TIE)

Best Mountain Bike Race

Beti Bike Bash — Castle Rock, CO

This week of celebration culminates in a rollicking women’s mountain bike race for all levels. June 4, 2017. betibikebash.com
Runners Up: Growler, Gunnison, CO; Fat Bike World Championship, Crested Butte, CO

Best Multisport Festival

CKS Paddlefest — Buena Vista, CO

It may have began as a paddling event, but it has evolved into so much more with everything from music to bouldering to running races and more. May 26-29, 2017. ckspaddlefest.com
Runners Up: GoPro Mountain Games, Vail, CO; Rocky Mountain State Games, Colorado Springs, CO

Best Music Festival

Targhee Fest — Wyoming

You want a real music festival in the mountains? Get to Wyoming. July 14-16, 2017.
grandtarhttp://www.grandtarghee.com/summer-music-festivals/targhee-summer-music-fest/ghee.com
Runners Up: Upslope Get Down, Boulder, CO; WinterWonderGrass, Steamboat, CO

Best Paddling Event

Golden Games — Golden, CO

Backed by the local community, this event just keeps growing. May 19-21, 2017. goldengames.com
Runners Up: CKS Paddlefest, Buena Vista, CO; FibArk, Salida, CO

Best Road Bike Race

West Elk Bicycle Classic — CO

Sadly, our readers choice for best road bike race is cancelled this year. But it hopes to return—maybe this award will help. westelkbicycleclassic.com
Runners Up: Copper Triangle, CO; Silver City Tour of the Gila, NM

Rowdiest Outdoor Event

Boom Days — Leadville, CO

Yes, Leadville is still the type of place you could get yourself beat up—or just have a real mountain-town blast at this festival. August 4-6, 2017. leadvilleboomdays.org
Runners Up: Late Night Fibark, Salida, CO; Wind River Mountain Festival, Pinedale, WY

Best Running Race

Ned Ned — Nederland, CO

With none of the pretense of other running races, this family friendly costumed event combines a 5K, 10K and dirt/road half marathon—and it reeks of Ned.
teensinc.org/nedned-race
Runners Up: Leadville Trail 100 Run, Leadville, CO; Bolder Boulder, Boulder, CO

Toughest Race or Event

Gore-tex Grand Traverse — Crested Butte, CO

Competitiors race the clock and brave storms in the middle of the night to gut it through the 40-mile ski from Crested Butte to Aspen. thegrandtraverse.org
Runners Up: Hardrock 100, Silverton, CO; West Elk Classic, Gunnison, CO

Best Triathlon

CB3P — Crested Butte, CO

Starting in Mt. Crested Butte and finishing in Gunnison, this multi-sport triathlon combines uphill/downhill skiing, road biking and kayaking. crestedbutte3p.com
Runners Up: Ironman Boulder 70.3, Boulder, CO; Toughman Utah, Provo, UT

Best Warrior/Mud Run Race

AXS Moab Adventure Race — Moab, Utah

Tough it out mountain biking, kayaking the Colorado River and rappeling down a 300-foot cliff in this blast of an adventure. April 22, 2017. axsracing.com/moab
Runners Up: Montana Warrior Run, Billings, MT; Dirty Girl Mud Run, Copper, CO

by Lily Krass and Tyra Sutak

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: SEASONS COLLIDE

The higher we climb, the more the seasons blend together. Each switchback reveals something new. An untouched snowbank. Budding springtime greenery. Bright rays of sunshine, and menacing dark storm clouds that quickly pass over our heads, as if to remind us of how fast time can fly. When we reach the top, and there’s nothing left to climb, we take a moment to survey our surroundings. To the east, the puzzle pieces of cities along the Front Range are scattered before us. To the west, snowcapped mountain tops and a majestic Longs Peak regally stand tall. It’s quiet, and the wind stops breathing long enough to let us feel the complete silence of the mountain.

Photo Location: Switzerland Trail, Boulder, CO.

Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends. 

EAT, SLEEP, PLAY: BRECKENRIDGE, CO

It was the discovery of gold that first brought travelers to the modern day mountain town of Breckenridge, Colo. in the 1850s, but today, it’s the promise of epic powder, the award-winning craft beer scene, and countless outdoor adventures that draw visitors to this small but vibrant town each year. With the promise of more snow on the horizon and several weekends left in winter begging to be filled, it’s time to pack your bags and plan a weekend getaway to the beautiful little resort town of Breckenridge.

EAT

Start your morning with a hearty mountain town breakfast at The Crown where you’ll find delicious coffee and a tasty and affordable meal, like the Four O’Clock bagel sandwich which is packed with hummus, cucumber, sprouts, tomato, avocado, and basically everything you need to start your day off right. For a post-ride beer or cocktail, head to Après Handcrafted Libations located in downtown Breckenridge. At this boozy joint, you’ll find 30 rotating craft beer taps plus 40+ rotating bottles and cans along with an impressive menu of small batch whiskeys and handcrafted cocktails. For dinner, check out Breckenridge Distillery’s beautiful new restaurant. Small bites and shared plates are being cooked up in the open kitchen in this cozy and inviting restaurant space—all of which go nicely with the delicious cocktails made with the distillery’s award-winning spirits. This popular spot is located a short drive from Breckenridge’s main drag, so expect to drive, or hop on one of the free town-run buses that regularly loops near the distillery. And because curiosity will probably get the best of you, go ahead and jump in that line you see outside of that mysterious tiny restaurant in downtown. Crepes a la Cart is one hopping place that offers up over 70 different crepes ranging from sweet to savory, and locals and visitors to Breckenridge are going crazy for them. Thankfully, this little dining gem is open from breakfast to late night, which means you can get your crepe fill at any time of the day.

SLEEP

In a resort town like Breckenridge, there certainly isn’t a shortage of places to rest your head for the night. But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay with all of the amenities and soul of a rustic mountain lodge, check out The Bivvi Hostel. Located a short bus ride or walk from Breckenridge’s downtown drag, The Bivvi offers up a variety of beautifully decorated dorms and private rooms as well as complimentary breakfast and WiFi. The beds at The Bivvi book up quickly, so be sure to plan your stay in advance. If first tracks are the only thing on your mind when choosing a place to stay on your visit, check out the Wedgwood Lodge, a family-owned and operated lodge located a stone’s throw from the Snowflake chairlift. Here, you’ll find accommodations for one, two, or a comfortable place to stay for the entire crew. Take advantage of the Wedgewood’s spring lodging special of 15% off during the dates of March 17 through April 15.

PLAY

There’s still plenty of time left in the winter season to explore Breckenridge Ski Resort’s 2,908 skiable acres and ample snowfall, but if you already have biking on the brain, break out the fat bike and tour this small town’s big libations scene on two wheels. Beer & Bike Tours’ Breckenridge Fat Bike Adventures is a guided 6.5-mile loop for riders of all levels that stops at Broken Compass Brewing, the Breckenridge Distillery, and the Breckenridge Brewpub. Tour costs are $100 for Monday through Thursday trips, and $125 for weekend tours. Fat bike rentals are included in the cost of the ticket price. If craft beer is really your thing, don’t miss out on the popular Breck Spring Beer Festival which is set to take place on Saturday, April 8 at the Main Street Station & The Village at Breckenridge. Over 50+ craft breweries from across the country will be pouring beer this year. Tickets start at $30 per person. Between hitting the slopes and discovering the town’s après gems, be sure to carve out some time on your visit to enjoy one of the area’s best natural features: the gold medal waters of the Blue River. Surrounded by 360-degree views of the beautiful landscape that defines the Centennial State, the Blue River is full of hungry trout and a great place to spend a morning. The fun-loving guides at the Breckenridge Outfitters fly shop have everything you need to get out in the water of the best local fishing holes. Guide trips at this shop range from a two-hour walk and wade trip for $85 per person, to an overnight float trip, and everything in between.

Photo By Thomas Kolicko

DOWN ‘N DIRTY: GSI OUTDOORS GLACIER STAINLESS MICROLITE 500

I don’t know about you, but for me, some sort of insulated mug filled to the brim with a strong caffeinated beverage is an essential part of most of my days. Whether I’m in the middle of an epic road trip, waking up next to a backcountry campfire, or simply commuting to a work obligation, coffee is a big part of my morning—and having a go-to to-go mug to hold that coffee in is probably the second most important part of the beginning of my day. But finding a good mug to fit all of your needs isn’t always easy. There can often be a big divide between mugs made with camping in mind, and mugs made for every day use. But GSI Outdoors’ new Glacier Stainless Microlite 500 fits exceptionally well into both categories. It’s light—crazy light—like 7.9 ounces light. But it’s lightweight design doesn’t mean the product is lacking in other categories. It’s actually one of the most well thought out and versatile coffee mugs that I’ve owned, and as an avid coffee drinker, that says a lot. In the outdoor category, the mug’s vacuum-insulated design can either be utilized to keep warm beverages warm for several hours, or cold beverages cold for several hours. Last week, I poured a delightful cup of coffee into the mug, which I proceeded to forget when I embarked out into the world for the next 8 hours. When I got home that evening and emptied out the mug to clean it, the forgotten coffee inside was still piping hot. But the mug’s stainless steel build means it’s just as functional in the backcountry as it is en route to the office.

Pros: The Glacier Stainless Microlite 500 features a very well thought out design on the lid, which not only makes for easy and safe (hot liquids!) drinking, whether you’re posted up around a campfire or smack dab in the middle of an epic road trip. The lid’s design also includes a smart locking feature, so you don’t have to worry about leaks. The vacuum seal keeps hot liquids hot, and cold liquids cold—which kind of makes this piece of gear an excellent travel item. Whether you need to fill it with coffee on the way to the airport, or use it as a water bottle on your travel adventures, it’s a versatile and budget-friendly piece that will last you a long time.

Cons: I might be wildly drunk on non-spilled, delicious hot coffee, but I haven’t discovered a con in this product.

Where We Took It: On a road trip to Canyonlands National Park, in a backpack exploring the providence of Quebec, to the office, and for daily caffeine consumption in my house.

INSTAGRAM TAKEOVER: CRESTED BUTTE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Crested Butte, Colo. is receiving record-breaking snowfall this winter, luring skiers and shredders from all over the Centennial State and beyond to the town’s historic Crested Butte Mountain Resort. And just like this year’s snowfall, CB’s resort is epic — offering the perfect blend of extreme terrain and easy-going hills for beginners. But don’t take our word for it. Crested Butte Mountain Resort is taking over our Instagram account this week with photos that will make you want to ditch the office and head west immediately. Stay tuned to @elevationout on Instagram this week and read our Q&A with CBMR to find out just what makes this small mountain resort, and mountain town, the perfect place to explore this winter.

What makes Crested Butte stand out from other resorts?

Crested Butte is Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town. In the winter, Crested Butte is located at the end of Highway 135 and is surrounded by National Forest, making it the epitome of adventure! Crested Butte’s main drag, Elk Avenue, is a registered National Historic District featuring incredibly colorful facades and classic architecture from Crested Butte’s mining days.

Crested Butte Mountain Resort embodies the adventurous and classic personas of this small Rocky Mountain town. Incredible terrain for the whole family, great snow, short lift lines and very reasonable lodging and lift ticket rates set CBMR apart from many other resorts.

Tell us a little bit about Crested Butte’s awesome terrain. 

Although Crested Butte is often revered as an “extreme mountain”, the resort truly offers runs catered to the whole family. The terrain at CBMR is “naturally divided” so that most of the beginner runs are not overlapping more challenging runs. This natural division encourages people to spread out across the resort, shortening lift lines and providing you with the feeling that you have the mountain to yourself.

Beginner skiers and riders enjoy the wide, consistent runs off of the Red Lady Express Lift.  Featuring mellow grades, open trails and the ability to explore, these runs are an excellent stepping stone for those who are new to the sport.

The Paradise Express Lift offers countless options of long, intermediate cruisers and mellow bump runs. Located within the middle of the resort, guests can easily access many different runs from the Paradise Lift. For intermediates looking to take the next step, head over to the East River Express Lift and the impeccably spaced trees of Gully Glades. East River is a popular spot due to its generally warmer temperatures and excellent snow conditions.

For a consistent challenge, the Silver Queen Express Lift and the Extreme Limits terrain is the perfect area to explore. Long, steep runs will exhaust your legs as you lap the frontside terrain underneath the Silver Queen Lift. The High Lift and North Face Lifts will elevate you to the top of the most challenging runs on the mountain.

As the snow continues to fall on Crested Butte’s famed slopes, Ski Patrol is hard at work controlling and opening some of North America’s most revered extreme terrain. The Extreme Limits at CBMR consist of 542 acres of bowls, chutes and glades. Whether you are a professional skier looking to push the envelope, or a guest looking for an additional challenge, conditions at Crested Butte are providing everyone with some of the best turns they’ve ever had.

Any advice for a skier or snowboarder who hasn’t ridden at Crested Butte before?

Don’t be intimidated. Crested Butte Mountain Resort features lots of terrain for all ability levels. Of the 121 total trails at CBMR, 26 percent is rated as beginner and 57 percent is rated as intermediate.

Another piece of advice is to take a lesson. The Crested Butte Ski and Snowboard Instructors are some of the best around, and are passionate about taking your skiing and riding to the next level – whether you’ve never skied before or have been multiple times before. Learn more about the different lessons and programs at skicb.com/lessons.

Where’s the best place to grab a beer on the mountain?

There is no better place than the Umbrella Bar at Ten Peaks to grab a drink during the day! For après ski, Butte 66 is the most convenient and best spot to grab some food, a drink and watch the game.

Give us a few tips on how to blend in like a local

Ride the bus. Crested Butte offers an unbelievable bus system that runs every 15 minutes between the mountain and downtown Crested Butte.  This free bus system virtually eliminates the need to drive when in Crested Butte.

Flannel is fur: When heading out on the town, locals are much more likely to throw on their favorite flannel shirt and beanie, rather than their finest fur and leather shoes.

Be happy. One thing that is unique to Crested Butte and the local community is the overwhelming friendliness of the people who call this valley home. Many guests have turned their vacation into a permanent residence after embracing the friendly, happy and passionate local community.

What kind other activities does Crested Butte Mountain Resort have to offer?

Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers many different activities! In addition to skiing and riding, CBMR also offers: snow biking, fat biking, zipline tours, the Adventure Park, uphill skiing, snowshoe tours, snowmobile tours, cross country skiing and more. For more information, call our Adventure Services team at (844) 993-9545 or visit skicb.com/winter-activities.

What is Crested Butte’s most popular festival or event?

The first thing to note is that there is always something going on in Crested Butte! In the winter, Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s annual spring concert – SkiTown Breakdown – is a very popular event. We are excited to announce that Leftover Salmon will be headlining SkiTown Breakdown on March 18, 2017.

Are there any good resort deals to lock down now for the season we should know of? 

Guests should take advantage of the multiple Ski Free & Stay Free packages that offer free lodging and free days of lift tickets if you stay three or four nights, depending on the time of the season. For families, children 12 and under receive free lift tickets from April 1 to 9, 2017. In addition, children ages 6 and under ski free all season long. No strings attached, no parent ticket required, no lodging stay required, no advance reservations, no purchase of a bottle of wine (though that is not a bad idea), just a good old free ticket for the littlest rippers.

THE RETURN OF STOUT MONTH

It’s here. The one month out of the year dedicated to malty, dark, rich, roasty, and damn good cold weather-drinking beers. While the leaders of the Stout Month circus continue to be the Colorado-based Mountain Sun Brewery group, the state is also home to a numerous bunch of stout-loving breweries that are serving up their very best stouts this February. Here’s a look a six stouts to seek out this month.

Girl Scout Stout | Mountain Sun Brewery

I get it. There are so many amazing stouts being released this month at Mountain Sun locations all across the Front Range, but the Girl Scout Stout’s minty, and rich chocolate flavors continue to bring all of the boys and girls to the bar. At 5.9 percent ABV, this stout is still fairly sessionable and a delightful way to cleanse your palate as you taste your way through the billion other stouts on Mountain Sun’s stout month menu. mountainsunpub.com

Night Watchman | City Star Brewery

This American Stout holds the high honors of being awarded a silver medal at the 2015 Great American Beer Festival, and a silver medal at the 2014 US Open Beer Championship, so you know it’s good. Balanced and clean brews define this Berthoud brewery’s beer line-up, and the Night Watchman isn’t an exception. The Night Watchman’s roasty flavor is exactly what you want in a big, dark beer, but is complimented nicely with dark chocolate and coffee notes. citystarbrewing.com

Barrel Aged Ten Fidy | Oskar Blues Brewery

If you’ve had the pleasure of drinking this monster of a stout and can still remember the experience, then good on ya. Oskar Blues’ Ten Fidy Imperial Stout has been a staple in the brewery’s line-up for years, but it wasn’t until they started barrel-aging it in bourbon barrels that the beer really started to develop a cult-like following. Espresso, chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and oaky notes are all flavors you can expect to find in this whopper of a beer that weighs in at 12.9 percent ABV. If you can find one, grab one of the 19.2 ounce cans of the Barrel Aged Ten Fidy that the brewery released in the fall of 2016, or pay a visit to the Oskar Blues tasting room where you fill a crowler (or five) of this beauty to take home with you. oskarblues.com 

Irish Blessing Oak-Aged Coffee Stout | Boulder Beer Company

If coffee stouts are your jam, add Boulder Beer Company’s soon-to-be released Irish Blessing Oak-Aged Coffee Stout to your list of stouts to try this month. Brewed in collaboration with Boulder’s OZO Coffee, the final product is a dark stout made with black and chocolate malts, which along with the roasted coffee flavor, give this beer it’s rich flavor. Stout lovers can grab a pint at craft beer bars throughout Colorado beginning in mid February, or at the beer’s release party at the Boulder Beer pub on February 17. boulderbeer.com

Imperial Chocolate Almond Stout | Cannonball Creek Brewing Co.

It seems like everything this Golden-based brewery touches turns to gold, but it’s not just the lighter styles of beer that Cannonball Creek fans are going crazy for. This February will mark the return of the brewery’s beloved Imperial Chocolate Stout—a creamy and almond-forward dark ale originally created to commemorate the brewery’s anniversary. Stay tuned to the Cannonball Creek website for details on when this speciality brew is pouring. cannonballcreekbrewing.com

Jolly Russian | Odell Brewing Company

One of the more unique stouts on the market, Odell Brewing Company’s Jolly Russian is a huge Russian Imperial Stout aged in rum barrels. This dark beer is incredibly flavorful, with notes of coffee, cocoa, and spiced molasses shining through. At 13.3 percent ABV, this beer will getcha, but it’s so worth it. Pick up a 12 ounce bottle or a fresh pour on draft at Odell’s Fort Collin’s brewery. odellbrewing.com

COLORADO BREWERIES TEAM UP FOR 4TH ANNUAL COLLABORATION BEER FESTIVAL

On a quiet Friday morning in the 7-barrel pilot brewhouse at Odell Brewing Company, brewers from Odell and nearby neighbor, New Belgium, gathered together to brew up a hop-forward experimental pale ale—a beer that represents the longtime collaborative spirit between the two Fort Collins craft breweries.

It was a shared passion for exploring new hop varieties that sparked the collaboration, which eventually evolved into a beer that will be served at this year’s Collaboration Beer Festival, a unique beer fest thrown by the Colorado Brewers Guild each year to showcase the talent and spirit of the local craft beer industry. Hops are the main character in this beer story, but over 100 different collaborations are taking place at breweries throughout Colorado and beyond this month—all of which will be served at Collaboration Fest which is set to take place on Saturday, March 25 in the spacious National Western Complex in Denver. Over 150 participating breweries forged more than 100 beer collaborations for this year’s festival.

Tickets are $60 for General Admission, and $85 for VIP. The festival will also include live music and food vendors. Check out the full list of collaborations and snag tickets for this unique event at collaborationfest.com.

VISIT ASPEN

Sure, you’ve heard all the cliches about the elite streets of colorado’s snobbiest ski town. Forget about all that trash talk and plan a trip to the place of the beautiful people, because the truth is Aspen is the ideal escape if you like Craft beer, good eats, untracked powder and even some killer deals.

EAT

Aspen is home to a world-class dining scene, but that doesn’t mean you need to give up an arm and a leg for a good meal in this town. For pre-shred grub, check out Overeasy  where you can fuel up with a huge classic breakfast. When lunchtime rolls around, head to 520 Grill , where you’ll find a large selection of hearty and healthy lunch dishes—most for under $10 per plate. And for après libations, a cold craft beer at the Aspen Brewing Company taproom is a must. Or class it up with a cocktail dreamed up by the talented mixologists at Justice Snow’s Restaurant + Bar .

SLEEP

The centrally-located Limelight Hotel isn’t cheap, but it features a handful of complimentary offerings that make the price worthwhile: You get up to two free lift tickets per day, good at any of the four Aspen Snowmass mountains, as well as complimentary adventures like guided snowshoe tours and First Tracks on Aspen Mountain. For a budget-friendly option, head to the Element Basalt – Aspen, where you’ll consistently find rates under $200 a night. And don’t forget the pup. The hotel is pet-friendly.

PLAY

It’s all about fresh tracks this time of year in Aspen, and the area’s four outstanding mountains don’t have the crowds of I-70 resorts. Hop on one of the many ski shuttles from downtown Aspen and spend the day on the slopes of Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass, or Aspen Highlands . If two-wheels is more your style, check out the new Aspen Fat Bike Loop (—a 4.5-mile circuit with access from three different trailheads in the Aspen area. But the outdoor fun doesn’t disappear with the sun. For $10 every Friday night through April, Elk Camp at Snowmass  celebrates Ullr Nights with tubing, ice skating, fat biking, live music and s’mores around a campfire.

—Tyra Sutak

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: BEST BOOZE

Here at Elevation Outdoors Magazine, we’re gearing up for the launch of our annual best of booze poll which returns on February 20. To celebrate the beginning of a new year, and a new search for Colorado’s best booze, we paid a visit to the place where it all ended last year: the City Star Brewery taproom. Through six rounds of voting March-Madness style, this celebrated Berthoud gem was voted the champion with their easy-drinking and oh-so-smooth Bandit Brown Ale. This year, we’re on a quest to determine the top booze-maker in the state. Colorado’s top craft breweries, wineries, distilleries, and ciders will be going head-to-head through six rounds of voting, but only one will be crowned the ultimate libation.

Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends. 

CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE OF CRAFT BEER IN THE CITY OF LOVELAND

Four more days—that’s all of the time you have left to plan the perfect romantic Valentine’s Day for your sweetheart. But this February, don’t forget to celebrate your other longtime love: craft beer. And there’s no better place to do that than in the city of love itself. Located along the Front Range between the sudsy cities of Boulder and Fort Collins, Loveland, Colo. has emerged in recent years as a small, but mighty, destination for craft beer drinkers. So don your finest drinking attire, break out the sappy love songs and head to Loveland to celebrate your love of craft beer.

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse

Perhaps the most well-known brewery in Loveland, Grimm Brothers Brewhouse has earned its reputation and dedicated fan base with a consistent line-up of tasty beers with unique stories. On tap at brewery, you’ll find modern takes on historic German-style beers—like the Little Red Cap—an Altbier that has been awarded two gold medals and a bronze medal in the German-Style Altbier category at the Great American Beer Festival. Since opening their doors in 2010, Grimm Brothers has settled into their craft nicely—really hitting their stride in recent years as showcased by the brewery’s six GABF medals, steady growth that includes a dedicated production brewery, and a burgeoning barrel-aging program. Visit this brewery on Saturdays at 4 pm for a brewery tour to learn more about Grimm Brothers storybook beers and gorgeous label artwork. 623 N Denver Ave., Loveland; 970.624.6045

Verboten Brewing and Barrel Project

Considered a boutique brewery, Verboten Brewing recently celebrated their fourth anniversary at their location in Loveland. Verboten translates to “forbidden” in German, a word that this small brewery adopted to represent their take on clean and pure beers flavored only with traditional ingredients like fruits and spices, and through the barrel aging process. Like Grimm Brothers, Verboten has also been recognized at the Great American Beer Festival, earning a bronze medal for their Little Nonsense Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout, which is currently on tap at the brewery after aging for nine months. Most of the brews coming out of this Loveland brewery are big beers, ringing in on the higher end of the ABV scale, so plan accordingly on your beer tour of love in Loveland. . 127 E. 5th Street, Loveland; 970.775.7371

Loveland Aleworks

Loveland Aleworks is a family-owned operation specializing in small batch beers since their inception in 2012. Located in the city’s quaint and growing downtown area, this brewery’s line-up highlights traditional European and American styles of beer. Loveland Aleworks offers a little something for everyone with their line-up running the gamut from stereotypical brewhouse beers, like a saison, an IPA, and a stout—to non-traditional beers like the one’s coming out Loveland Aleworks budding sour program. Wherever your beer drinking adventures take you at this brewery, be sure they include a taste of the balanced, but flavorful American Sour with raspberries. It’ll make your heart sing this Valentine’s Day. 118 West 4th Street, Loveland; 970.619.8726

Crow Hop Brewery and Taproom

At Crow Hop Brewery, beer drinkers can pick their poison in the form of a wide variety of offerings that include everything from full-bodied IPAs to lagers—and that’s just in the brewery’s selection of their six flagship beers. The menu of rotating brews at Crow Hop is a playground of experimental beers, like the Orange Crush Kettle Sour made with blood orange puree. Crow Hop also recently teamed up with Loveland Aleworks to create For the Love of Hops—an easy-drinking pale ale made with a huge assortment of hops like Citra, Mosaic, and Galaxy hops. Find this love-themed brew on tap at Crow Hop’s taproom for a limited time. 217 E. 3rd Street, Loveland; 970.633.0643

Big Thompson Brewery

Loveland’s Big Thompson Brewery’s motto is “let the beer flow”, which the brewery has been doing since opening up shop in 2012. The beer menu at Big Thompson is filled with river-themed beer names like Float Away IPA, Headwaters Pale Ale, and the Bent Hook Ale. But standard beers aside, these guys are also brewing up some interesting stuff, like a Smoked Chipotle Porter and a Schwarzbier. And this Valentine’s Day, they’re celebrating craft beer by pairing it with some delicious desserts. Snag a ticket to the Big Thompson Dessert and Beer Pairing event from 5-9 pm on February 14 while they last, and end your Valentine’s Day on a sweet note. 114 E. 15th Street, Loveland; 970.619.8138

ROMANCE IN THE BACKCOUNTRY

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but instead falling down the Hallmark rabbit hole, treat your sweetheart to a romantic date in the backcountry this year. Replace that over-priced restaurant dinner and bad lighting with a moonlit meal under the stars. From the best toast-worthy beverages, to the best gear to help set the mood, check out our top picks for must-have items to help create the perfect backcountry date this Valentine’s Day.

MSR PocketRocket Stove Kit  

Lightweight, efficient, and built for two, MSR’s PocketRocket Stove Kit is the perfect vessel for creating a delicious meal in the backcountry. This stove kit features MSR’s best-selling pocket rocket stove, two dish sets (including folding sporks) and a two-liter aluminum pot. And the best thing about this set-up, is everything nests together and weighs in at just 25.8 ounces.

Mountain House Meals

Freeze dried meals are an excellent option for an easy meal outdoors, and the dinner options offered up by Mountain House are so darn tasty, you won’t feel like you’re missing out on that traditional date night meal. Take a cue from Lady and the Tramp and bring along a few packs of Spaghetti, and don’t forget the dessert. Impress your date with cheesecake bites, apple crisp, or even a freeze dried raspberry crumble.

GSI Nesting Champagne Flute   

Romance is not dead, so surprise your date with a little bubbly for a sweet toast at sunset using GSI Outdoors Nesting Champagne Flutes. The durable flutes pack up and travel nicely and include a stable, non-slip base.

Infinite Monkey Theorem Moscato Can

Fill those adorable champagne flutes with Infinite Monkey Theorem’s sparkling Moscato wine. Available in cans, this toast-worthy beverage will bring a little class to your outdoor dining experience.

Big Agnes Sentinel 30 Doublewide Sleeping Bag

Turn your romantic Valentine’s date into an overnighter with the Big Agnes Sentinel 30 double wide sleeping bag. Built for two, this bag eliminates the need to zip two bags together to cuddle up to your sweetheart at night.

UCO Rhody + Hang-Out Lantern

The moon is the ultimate mood lighting outside of the tent, but inside, the UCO Rhody + Hang-Out Lantern will create the perfect romantic lightning, thanks to the infinity dial, which allows for fine tuning of light up to 130 lumens. This rechargeable lantern also features a moonlight setting and USB port to keep your phone charged while you stream love songs all evening.

Mountain Smith The Sixer Cooler

Small, but mighty, the Mountain Smith Sixer Cooler is the perfect size and weight to pack up and transport the essentials for backcountry dining. The Sixer Cooler also sports a built in bottle opener and a detachable strap for easy hauling.

Deerhammer American Single Malt Whiskey

If champagne isn’t really you or your sweetheart’s thing, then be sure to pack a bottle of good whiskey to share around the campfire at night. Based in Buena Vista, Colo., Deerhammer’s single malt whiskey is little sweet, with coffee, cacao and caramel notes shining through—all balanced out with subtle spices—creating a warming and smooth beverage to cap off your romantic Valentine’s date in the backcountry.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: WHISPERS IN THE WIND

The canyon’s gentle greeting caresses my cold cheeks and rustles through my hair. It’s carried by the whisper of a slow breeze—over the snowcapped mountain tops in the distance, along the smooth red rock canyon walls that surround me, and through the magnificent arches—leaving just as softly as it arrived. Try as it might, the sun’s welcome blanket of warmth provides little relief from the cold winter day, but I appreciate the gesture, just the same. I don’t dare speak my goodbyes for fear of ruining it all. Instead, I sit. Breathing in the still air, silently giving thanks to the sun, and remembering every single reason that I fight for public lands and against climate change. If you need a little reminder of what an important part of the good fight you are, visit your nearest national park. Like everyone, the national parks could use a friendly hello and good cheering up this year.

Photo Location: Canyonlands National Park

Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends. 

NEW YEAR, NEW BEER: COLORADO BREWERIES UNVEIL NEW OFFERINGS TO KICK OFF 2017

2017 is off to a bang in the Colorado craft beer world, with many local breweries releasing new beers and new additions to their packaged offerings. So start off the new year by mixing up your usual beer order and exploring these exciting updates from some of the top players in one of the craftiest beer states in the U.S.

Upslope Brewing Company

You may have tried Upslope Brewing Co’s exceptionally refreshing Citra Pale Ale at one of the brewery’s two Boulder taprooms, but as of February 1, the Citra Pale Ale will be available as part of the eight-year-old brewery’s year-round line-up—replacing Upslope’s flagship brew, the original Pale Ale. Floral, juicy, and brilliant are the three words branded on the Citra Pale Ale’s new 12 ounce can design. The 5.6-percent ABV beer will be available in six-packs, twelve-packs, mixed boxes, and full-time on the taps at both Upslope taprooms. 1898 S Flatiron Ct, Boulder, 303-396-1898

City Star Brewing

City Star’s Barrel-Aged taproom-exclusive series isn’t exactly new in 2017, but their first addition to the series in the new year is one of their best barrel-aged beers yet. The Wood Belly Imperial IPA is a smooth, double dry-hopped IPA that spent seven months aging in a boozy whisky oak barrel from Lyons-based Spirit Hound Distillers. This beer is so good, it’s dangerous. If you’re not careful, this easy-drinking big beer will sneak up on you at 10.6-percent ABV. 750 ml bottles of this limited-edition brew are available at the City Star taproom in Berthoud. 321 Mountain Ave., Berthoud, 970-532-7827

Denver Beer Company

Two weeks ago at the Big Beers, Belgians & Barleywines festival in Breckenridge, the head brewer at the Denver Beer Company poured me a taster of the brewery’s 2016 GABF medal-winning Drama Queen—and it rendered me speechless for a moment. When I regained my senses, I learned that the brewery had plans to release another tasty brew in January—the Four Sheets Belgian Quad—a new addition to the popular Mile High bomber series. This big beer weighs in at 11-percent ABV and boasts a malty profile with caramel, toffee, and plum notes, and is perfect for indulging on during those cold Colorado days. 1695 Platte St., Denver, 303-433-2739

Left Hand Brewing Company

New year, new packaging. Although Longmont-based, Left Hand Brewing Company isn’t totally ditching bottles, they’re making some major overhauls to their canned beer offerings, including a new quarterly saison series to be sold in 16 ounce 4-packs, and  three new canned seasonal offerings: Good Juju Ale, Well Played Red IPA, and Study Abroad Belgian Single. Left Hand will also offer three additional beers in 12 ounce cans this year: the Travelin’ Light Kolsch, Sawtooth Ale, and the Polestar Pilsner. 1265 Boston Ave., Longmont, 303-772-0258

Great Divide Brewing Company

One of Denver’s longest-running craft breweries is mixing things up in 2017. For starters, Great Divide will be releasing two new beers around springtime. First up is the Hop Disciples Rotating Hop Project IPA. Available in 12 ounce cans, the hop-forward IPA will feature a different hop each year and is expected to hit shelves by April. The brewery is also planning to release the Roadie Grapefruit Radler sometime in the spring. At only 4-percent ABV, a can of this refreshing but slightly tart beer will most likely make it into your hiking or biking pack at some point this summer. Also on tap from Great Divide in 2017 are a Strawberry Rhubarb Sour, a Chai Yeti Imperial Stout, and a series of barrel-aged beers in 12-ounce bottles. 2201 Arapahoe St., Denver, 303-296-9460

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: THROUGH THE DARKNESS…

Through the darkness, there comes the light. Sometimes soft and timid. Sometimes strong and bright. It caresses the trees and illuminates the path—encouraging exploration and life. It tenderly wakes the day, and patiently welcomes the night. Never wavering, always moving forward, through the darkness, there comes the light.

Photo Location: Redwood National Park.

Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends.

EAT, SLEEP, PLAY: CRESTED BUTTE, COLORADO

The small mountain town of Crested Butte, Colorado is the place to be this winter. In the first two weeks of January 2017, the historic ski town has recorded 112 inches of snowfall, up from 31 inches of snowfall recorded during the entire month of January in 2016. A former coal mining town, Crested Butte is touted for being “the last great ski town” with roots in the skiing industry dating back to the 1960s. Today, Crested Butte’s authentic small town charm and gusto is about as alluring as it gets for visitors looking to explore the great outdoors, and enjoy a relaxing weekend filled with world-class scenery, delicious food, and locally-made libations. With snow continuing to blanket Crested Butte, and more importantly, Crested Butte Mountain Resort, we’ve put together our tips for how to eat, sleep, and play in this charming ski town.

EAT: 

Crested Butte’s dining scene is everything a mountain town dining scene should be: absent of chains, full of hearty and delicious food, and loaded with warm and inviting places perfect for capping off epic ski days with après adult beverages. Start your day in Crested Butte on a healthy note with a fresh-pressed juice or smoothie at A Daily Dose. This coffee, juice and breakfast joint is perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast before you catch the free ski shuttle that loops from downtown Crested Butte to the resort every 15 minutes throughout the day. If après shenanigans are spent on the slopes, don’t miss the chance to check out the Umbrella Bar—a new addition to the resort. Located at the top of Painter Boy run, Umbrella Bar boasts exceptional views, thanks to a retractable roof which is typically open on bluebird days. On the menu you’ll find delicious snacks and European-style bites like sausages, sauerkraut, paninis, fondue and a plenty of adult beverages. If you’re in town during happy hour, hit up Montanya Distillers. This longtime mountain distillery is producing three different kinds of barrel-aged rum using all-natural ingredients. Small tastes of each of the smooth rum offerings are available at no charge, but chances are, you’ll want to order full pour on it’s own, or as a part of one of the many exceptional craft cocktails available in the tasting room. Montanya Distillers also serves up elevated small plates and operates a pho hotline for diners to call in their pho to-go orders for pickup everyday from noon to 3 pm.

For dinner, sit down for a spicy bowl of curry at Ginger Cafe, or order any one of the other flavorful dishes on the menu. This restaurant fills up quickly, so make reservations if you’re planning on enjoying the delightful food and speciality cocktail menu that Ginger Cafe has to offer. And while Crested Butte has yet to see the opening of a craft brewery in town, they’re home to one of the best craft beer bars in western Colorado. The Brick Oven Pizzeria and Pub not only boasts 30 beers on draft, but also has an exceptional—and I mean exceptional—beer cellar filled with rare, limited-release, and aging beer from some of the top breweries in the country. Pair that with slice of artfully made pizza and you’re set for the evening.

SLEEP: 

At the entrance into town, and just steps away from downtown Crested Butte, is the budget-friendly and cozy Old Town Inn, where guests will find homey accommodations and complimentary breakfast filled with freshly baked pastries and endless coffee every morning. Old Town Inn weekend nightly rates this winter can be found for as low as $109, but the quaint inn books pretty far in advance, so make your reservations ahead of time. If you only having skiing on the brain and want to spend as much time on the mountain as possible, check out The Lodge at Mountaineer Square. This beautiful and new property in the heart of Crested Butte Mountain Resort is located steps away from lifts, and offers a range of accommodations to meet the needs of everyone from the solo traveler, to larger groups. Pricing begins around $215 per night during the winter, but book the Stay and Ski Package and receive a discount on both lodging and lift tickets.

PLAY

Crested Butte is the ultimate mountain playground in the wintertime, and with record-breaking snowfall this year, this town is the place to be for fresh powder and bluebird days. On the mountain, check out Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s three terrain park options, or one of the many runs geared towards beginner and intermediate skiers and boarders. Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers a handful of deals on lodging and lift tickets throughout the season, so stayed tuned the resort’s deal page to take advantage of the budget-friendly deals. While hitting the slopes is one of the top winter activities in Crested Butte, this small town isn’t just a one trick pony. Home to the oldest mountain biking association in the country, Crested Butte has a killer fat biking scene in the cold weather months. For bike rentals (and all of your other gear and apparel needs while in town), check out The Alpineer. Bike rentals are available at hourly and daily rates. Check out Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association’s website for trail maps, trail status, and a list of suggested rides, and if you just can’t get enough of fat bikes, don’t miss the fun and funky Fat Bike World Championships which take place in Crested Butte January 25-29. For a more mellow winter activity, rent snowshoes and take advantage of the 55 kilometers of groomed trails around town. Crested Butte Nordic, non-profit organization in town that dates back to the 1980s, is the place to go for all things nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Trail passes can be purchased for $20 a day, and skate skis and snowshoe rentals are available for adults at $20 per day. And if you’re really looking for a unique experience, reserve a space on one of Crested Butte Nordic’s Magic Meadows Yurt Dinner Experiences. This all-inclusive experience includes snowshoes rentals, trail passes, a five-course dinner, live music, and plenty of libations—and if you’re lucky—a night sky full of stars as you make your way along the trails back towards town. The Yurt Dinner Experience is $135 for adults, and $85 for children.

Photo by Thomas Kolicko.

DOWN ‘N DIRTY: IBEX TAOS PLAID SHIRT (WOMEN’S)

If you consider yourself to be an outdoorsy person, chances are, you own a plaid shirt. It’s one of those unspoken combinations, like craft beer brewers and gnarly beards. Plaid shirts are a way for outdoorsy folks to spot members of their tribe out in the wild, and Ibex Outdoor Clothing is making one of the most functional and fashionable plaid shirts that we’ve ever worn. Made up of a merino wool blend, the Ibex Taos Plaid Shirt kept me nice and toasty as a mid layer in below-freezing weather in several Colorado mountain towns this winter, and I looked good doing it. The stylish shirt comes in three different color combinations, and includes snap buttons all of the way down the front of the shirt, as well as small slits on both sides of the hips making it easy to wear over jeans, tights, or even bulky snowpants. It’s a versatile piece of outdoor clothing that can go from the slopes, to the bar, to work, to the campfire, and just about anywhere that you need a warm, long-sleeved shirt. The Taos Plaid Shirt is also available in men’s sizing, and it’s just as fashionable and functional as the women’s option.

Pros: The warmth factor. The wooven wool blend is made up of merino wool and nylon, making the Taos Plaid a mid layer that will keep you warm in cold temps. It also means that the shirt’s material is smooth and very durable. The plaid is also quite fashionable, and has a relaxed fit, which makes it easy to add an additional layer underneath for those really cold days. Ibex also recently opened a retail location in Denver where shoppers can check out the Taos Plaid (and Ibex’s other quality merino wool products) before they buy.

Cons: While the wool fabric is smooth to the touch, it can be a little itchy when worn for long periods of time. On regular days, I wear the Taos Plaid over a thin t-shirt to thwart the scratchy feeling that comes with the territory of wearing wool apparel, and on really cold days, I add in a long-sleeve base layer underneath.

Where We Took It: Snowshoeing in below-freezing temps in Crested Butte, Co. and winter fly fishing in Breckenridge, Co.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: MOUNTAIN MAGIC

It’s a slow and steady incline, but the top reveals a picture-perfect view of the jagged but smooth Flatirons that define Boulder’s landscape. Tall trees made up of delicious-smelling delicate needles watch over the trail, following it closely as it narrows into an entrance to a magical dense forest where every crunch of the ground beneath our feet and every song from a bird reverberates in nature’s otherworldly beauty. Patches of misty sky and streaks of sleepy sunlight look in on us through breaks in the trees as our feet carry us along the rocky path. As we near the exit to the forest, the smell of fresh snow in the distance and the cold mountain wind wakes our senses. The trees once again give us our space and the rocky trail smooths itself out and the spell of the mountain magic is broken—until next time.

Postcards From the Weekend is our weekly photo series showcasing images and stories from our adventurous and outdoor-loving contributors at Elevation Outdoor Magazine. Follow along and see where our team of adventure-seekers like to spend their weekends.