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. 

Our Five Favorites From the 2017 Big Beers, Belgians, and Barleywines Festival

Don't wait until next year's fest to sample these exceptional Colorado brews.

On the cold and snowy afternoon of January 5, the 16th annual Big Beers, Belgians & Barleywines festival kicked off slope-side at the Beaver Run Resort in Breckenridge. While the well-respected Summit County event (formerly held in Vail) may not have the notoriety of the Great American Beer Festival, it’s widely considered to be one of Colorado’s best beer fests by industry folks. This year, 130 breweries from around the world gathered to showcase their Belgian-style, experimental, and high-alcohol brews in tastings, educational seminars, and food pairings. Amidst the global showcase of talent, Colorado breweries’ offerings shone bright. Check out our five favorite local brews here, and be sure to mark your calendars for next January’s Big Beers fest so you don’t miss out.

Drama Queen

Denver Beer Company

A gold medal winner in the Wood and Barrel Aged category at the 2016 GABF, Denver Beer Company’s Drama Queen was once again a standout. This saison’s complex-yet-synchronized combination of fruity and oaky flavors comes from aging in 16 different types of oak wine barrels (including Malbec, Merlot, and French Cabernet). 1695 Platte St., Denver, 303-433-2739

Jolly Russian Imperial Stout

Odell Brewing Company

If you’re going to drink one hearty, high-alcohol beer from Colorado this winter, make it Odell’s Jolly Russian imperial stout. Weighing in at a hefty 13.3-percent ABV, this roasty, rich beer is aged in rum barrels and tastes like a symphony of coffee, cocoa, vanilla, molasses, and dried fruit—perfect for those chilly winter nights. 800 E Lincoln Ave, Fort Collins, 970-498-9070

Ska Face Barleywine

Ska Brewing Company

Barleywines are strong aled with high ABV and intense flavors; Ska Brewing’s 11.5 percent ABV Ska Face is an exemplary example of the style. The complex, fragrant brew offers sweet caramel notes thanks to three years of aging in Peach Street Distiller’s Colorado straight bourbon barrels. 225 Girard St., Durango, 970-247-5792

Dry Hopped Nectarine Farmhouse Ale

Casey Brewing & Blending

Although Glenwood Springs-based Casey Brewing & Blending is a relatively new addition to the Colorado craft beer scene, its reputation for producing unusual, well-balanced beers using Old World techniques has already generated a buzz. After sampling the brewery’s dry-hopped nectarine farmhouse ale, it’s easy to see why Casey’s pouring table attracted such a steady stream of beer drinkers at the festival. Aged with Emeraude nectarines and dry hopped with Motueka hops from New Zealand, this brew is funky, rich, and bursting with sweet nectarine flavor. 3421 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs, 970-230-9691

American Sour Ale with Raspberries

Loveland Aleworks

Sour ales are still white hot in the craft beer industry, and Loveland Aleworks’ American sour ale with raspberries was one of our favorite showings at Big Beers. Thirteen pounds of raspberries are added to this brew during the aging process, giving a nice sweetness to balanceout the tang of the wild yeasts. 118 W 4th St., Loveland, 970-619-8726

CRAFT BEER GUIDE TO ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN

Oh, Michigan. Sometime in the past decade, the “Mitten State” emerged as a serious player on the national craft beer scene—thanks to an increase in malting companies and local hop and barley farms, a dedicated Brewers Guild, and a handful of visionaries whose unique approaches to craft beer years ago is paying off today. As of 2015, Michigan ranked sixth in the country in number of craft breweries per state, earning the high ranking with an arsenal of seriously sudsy cities—like the city of Ann Arbor. Known nationwide for a diverse and delicious dining scene, Ann Arbor is also home to a diverse, delicious and well-established craft beer scene. It’s the perfect place for a full-blown beercation. Not only is the city’s downtown hub ridiculously adorable, but it’s fairly small—which means the majority of your beer explorations can, and should, be done by foot. From cult-like status breweries like Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, to craft beer bars that are serving up some of the best beer in the country—we have the ultimate guide to Ann Arbor’s craft beer scene.

The Beer Grotto Ann Arbor Michigan

Downtown Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor’s downtown is about as charming as it gets. But perhaps the best thing about this little craft beer hub, is that just about everything is within walking distance. Stumble out of one brewery, and you’ll pretty much land at the doorstep of the next. Here’s a look at the must-visit breweries in Ann Arbor’s downtown.

Arbor Brewing Company

Affectionately known as “ABC”, Arbor Brewing Company is the culmination of hard work and a serious passion for beer by owners Matt and Rene Greff, who originally opened the pub and eatery in 1995. Today, this downtown gem is a go-to hangout spot for locals and tourists alike to cozy up in the inviting brewpub for a clean, crisp, and flavorful brew, and some not-so-traditional pub food. On the menu at this eatery, you’ll find pierogis, three different types of poutine, pickled beets, and more. Arbor Brewing Company also has a killer cellar and a successful sour program—which is located in the basement of the brewery’s historic building. If there’s a sour on the menu, don’t pass up a taster.

Grizzly Peak Brewing Company

Located in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, Grizzly Peak’s story also dates back to 1995, when the popular local brewery opened their doors in a century-old building in the city. Today—Grizzly Peak has amassed several store fronts on their original block—creating one big maze of places to drink beer. There’s a little nook for everyone. Whether you want to watch the big game, are rolling with the entire family, or are into that cool speakeasy vibe—Grizzly Peak’s set-up has the space and a place that will fit your needs. When you embark on your tasting journey at this brewpub, be sure to check out the Victor’s Gold Kolsch-style beer—which features Saaz hops and a subtle fruity finish. The brewery’s best-seller, the malty and caramel-forward Steelhead Red, is also a must-try.

Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery

If sour beers are your jam, then you’ve probably heard of a little place called Jolly Pumpkin. While the main brewing operations for Jolly Pumpkin are located just about twenty minutes outside of Ann Arbor, there’s a delightfully dangerous Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery location in the city’s downtown area. It’s a two-story slice of heaven for fans of wild ales. The Maracaibo Especial Sour Brown Ale is spiced with cinnamon and sweet orange peel and is not to be missed when visiting this iconic beer destination.

Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery

Barbeque and beer go hand-in-hand, and Blue Tractor is making some of the best versions of both. Also centrally located in downtown Ann Arbor, Blue Tractor is a relatively new to the city’s craft beer scene, but they’re keeping their barstools full with award-winning beer and great barbeque. While the brewery is only pouring from six taps in their taproom, they’re making the most of what they have. The brewery’s draft handles rotate often but always include a variety of beers from the light-bodied American Cream Ale, to the hopped-up Bumper Crop American IPA, to the Pitmaster Porter, which pairs nicely with smoky flavors coming out of the kitchen.

Venture Farther

While these breweries don’t boast the convenience factor that the downtown Ann Arbor breweries have, they’re definitely worth a visit. Snag a Lyft, take a mini-road trip, hitchhike—I don’t care how you get there—just get there.

Null Taphouse

This is it. The place where Jolly Pumpkin’s beer slumbers away in wine barrels. But you won’t just find Jolly Pumpkin brews at this unique taproom. “Null” stands for “Northern United Liquid Libations” which is an umbrella that local breweries like Jolly Pumpkin, Grizzly Peak, the North Peak Brewing Company, Nomad Beer and a winery and distillery are all connected by. It’s an interesting situation of like-minded business owners teaming up in order to grow—but the best part of the entire situation is that you’ll find libations from every single one of the Null partners in this funky taproom in Dexter, MI—which only about a 20-minute drive from Ann Arbor. This is also the place to stock up on all of the Jolly Pumpkin bottles that you can to ship back for beer cellar back home.

Wolverine State Brewing Company

If you’re a hater of Michigan University football—this brewery might not be for you. But if you can look past the Wolverines crushing your team this year, then Wolverine State Brewing Company is worth a visit. Located in Ann Arbor, but just outside of the downtown area, Wolverine State is only brewing up lagers—some damn tasty lagers. Go for the popular Gulo Gulo India Pale Lager (and the 2019 Nachos loaded with smoked pulled pork!) but don’t leave without a taste of the Massacre: a Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Dark Lager—which at 13 percent ABV, is true to its name. Wolverine State also offers beer specials every day of the week and brewery tours upon request.

Salt Springs Brewery

A craft brewery inside of a church? Now that’s something to give thanks for. A short drive from Ann Arbor in the small town of Saline is Salt Springs Brewery—an excellent craft brewery and restaurant housed in a beautifully historic Methodist church. The building still retains the stunning stained-glass windows, and the ethereal feeling of guilt. But these days, the gorgeous open interior of the church is as inviting as it gets, and with the amazing brunch menu this place is pumping out on the weekends, it’ll make you change your mind about going to church on Sundays. The Big Brown Bunny Porter is a 6.9 percent ABV glass of creamy, rich, and slightly sweet perfection, and pairs nicely with the fresh and local ingredients threaded throughout the kitchen’s delicious menu offerings.

Craft Beer Bars

With such a vibrant brewing scene, it’s no surprise that Ann Arbor is also home to a handful of excellent craft beer bars. Here are a few of our favorite craft-centric joints to hit when in the area.

Beer Grotto

The Beer Grotto is one of those awesome local spots with an inviting neighborhood vibe that draws you back time and time again. With 35+ taps that are rotating with an exceptional mix of limited beers, special releases, and flagship favorites from craft breweries all of the country, this small, but oh-so-worthy craft beer bar packs a mighty punch. This Beer Grotto is also a craft beer shop, which means you can fill up a growler or Crowler® of your favorite beers on tap and take them with you.

Ashley’s

Since 1983, Ashley’s has been a popular watering hole in the area, and today, the Cheers-meets-local-dive-bar is a serious craft beer bar that’s serving up beer from 100+ taps. It isnt’ pretentious. It’s located right in downtown Ann Arbor, and it’s the place to kick back, enjoy some delicious beers, and get some excellent pub food in your stomach before heading back out into the city on your craft beer adventures.

HopCat

While this sprawling craft beer bar is technically a chain with locations all over the midwest, HopCat is still definitely worth a visit when discovering Ann Arbor beer. Like Ashley’s, HopCat is also located in downtown Ann Arbor, and also boasts 100+ taps, but you’’re always guaranteed to find at least 40 taps dedicated to local breweries at this place. HopCat gets crazy busy on most nights, so get there early, be prepared for a little wait—or—head here for a little craft beer night cap.

5 Incredibly Cozy Lodges For Your Winter Escape

A roaring fire in the fireplace, snow gently falling outside your window, and somewhere in the distance, sounds of laughter drift from a nearby ice skating pond. There’s nothing quite like a winter wonderland getaway, and the United States is filled with exceptionally beautiful places to escape when the snow starts to fall. From the ultimate ski lodge to a mountain retreat whose previous guests include old Hollywood royalty, to a Colorado Rocky Mountain property that’ll take your breath away, check out these five incredibly cozy lodges for your winter escape.  

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, Colorado

This sprawling property is surprise gem, tucked into the natural beauty of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Modern, but highlighting an authentic rustic western design, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, sits on 6,000 acres of breathtaking landscape where guests can enjoy a variety of complimentary outdoor activities, like snowshoeing, nordic skiing on the property’s groomed trails, ice skating, fat biking, and horseback riding. This beautiful destination has everything you need to cozy up in for a winter escape, including an on-site coffee shop, a tavern, restaurant and saloon, and a wine cellar. Guests can also enjoy complimentary yoga classes and a handful of relaxing offerings at the spa. Book your accommodations in one of the 31 guest rooms in the main lodge, or reserve one the adorable cabins speckled throughout the woods on the property.

Sun Valley Lodge in Sun Valley, Idaho

Originally opened in 1936, the Sun Valley Lodge has been the go-to place for travelers looking to have the ultimate winter ski vacation. This historic gem has attracted the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Marilyn Monroe, and Clint Eastwood; with the gorgeous scenery of the nearby mountains seen from the lodge’s outdoor heated pool, it’s easy to see why. Situated at the base of Sun Valley Resort’s Dollar Mountain, and just a stone’s throw from Bald Mountain, the lodge is the ideal place for a true ski getaway. Here, the walls feature photographs of some of the celebrities that have passed through its halls over the years, and if the lodge’s Duchin Lounge could talk, they would tell stories of exceptional cocktails and conversations had by some of the most celebrated artists of the 1900s. Today, Duchin Lounge is still serving throwback drinks with views of the property’s stunning outdoor ice rink. This gorgeous and historical lodge offers nightly room rates that begin around $400 in the busy season of the winter, but the proximity to the ski lifts, and the beauty and history of the building make it well worth the splurge.

Killington Mountain Lodge in Killington, Vermont 

Killington, Vermont is home to the largest ski area in the eastern U.S. Located in Central Vermont, the town dates back to the 1700s, and today, is home to a handful of vacation rentals and lodges, including the Killington Mountain Lodge. A step inside reveals a freestanding fieldstone fireplace, which is the perfect place to warm up after a day on the slopes. Even better, there's an outdoor pool with swim-up fire pit, a movie room with free popcorn, an après ski menu, and unbeatable mountain views. The lodge offers shuttles to transport guests to and from the nearby Killington Ski Resort’s lifts—making a ski day easy and convenient.

Rainbow Ranch Lodge in Gallatin Gateway, MT

Montana’s vast landscape should be explored throughout all seasons, but looks exceptionally gorgeous blanketed in fresh snow each winter. In the heart of the state’s Rocky Mountain range sits the beautiful Rainbow Ranch Lodge — a year-round destination designed to highlight the endless outdoor adventures found in the area. This property oozes comfort and warmth, making it the ultimate place to enjoy a winter escape. Outside of the lodge, guests will find an outdoor playground full of winter activities, like fly fishing on the Gallatin River, horseback riding, and downhill skiing at nearby resorts: Big Sky and Moonlight Basin. Inside, guests can take advantage of the on-site spa services and Montana-inspired cuisine including dishes highlighting locally sourced ingredients, like elk, trout, and venison. Bonus: The property is budget-friendly with weekend rates in the winter beginning at $165 per night.

Timberline Lodge in Government Camp, Oregon 

Although this wasn’t the location that inspired Stephen King’s The Shining, the exterior of the Timerberline Lodge in Oregon was stunning enough to be featured in the film version of the story. Located on the south slope of Mount Hood, the Timberline Lodge offers a handful of accommodations including rustic rooms inside of the main lodge, luxury condos, and the Silcox Hut: an overnight hideaway 7,000-feet above the main lodge where guests can enjoy privacy, meals, and round-trip transportation. Inside of the rooms at the historic main lodge, guests have the option to reserve one of many that come with a fireplace. Outside, guests can take advantage of some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country at the Timberline Ski Resort, which has one of the longest ski seasons in America. History, views, and excellent outdoor activities keep this property booked far in advance, so make your reservations early.

BIG BEERS, BELGIANS & BARLEYWINES FESTIVAL 2017 RECAP

January 5-7 brought the return of the Big Beers, Belgians & Barleywines Festival to the snowy mountains of Colorado—the small ski town of Breckenridge taking over hosting honors from Vail for the first time in the long history of this big and boozy event. In its 17th year, Big Beers continues to attract the cream of the crop of the craft beer world for three days every winter. If you think the Great American Beer Festival is the industry event to hit up to see your favorite craft beer celebrities—well, you’re still right—but if you want to see what they look like when they’re laid back, enjoying a winter wonderland of a semi-vacation, sipping and pouring some of the best beers from their portfolios and cellars, then get your shit together and don’t miss this festival next year.

Photographs by Thomas Kolicko

Unlike a lot of profit-driven beer fests that take place throughout the always expanding festival season, Big Beers co-founders, Laura Lodge and her brother Bill Lodge, transcend taboo bad beer event production habits by placing a heavy focus on educational opportunities, for both the brewer and the drinker types, and create an excellent platform where people of all levels of craft beer knowledge and experience can have a real conversation about the current state and future insights of the industry. Seminars this year reflected the subtle shift happening in the industry where more and more breweries are sourcing ingredients on a local level. Maltsters, hop farmers, and brewers from brewery’s of all sizes led informative panels with titles like, “Experimenting with Local Maltsters,” “Discovering Fruit & Fruit Flavors in Brewing,” and “Brewery Terroir”—a 50-minute panel presentation featuring four brewmasters from all over the country who each shared the results of brewing the same recipe, but with ingredients found in their specific ‘hoods. Aside from some confusion on the layout of the maze-like, two-story festival grounds at the slope-side Beaver Run Resort, the festival upheld it’s reputation as a magnet for the upper echelon of the craft beer world—not necessarily in wealth—but in passion.

But at the end of the day, it was all about the beer—and the line-up for this festival was pretty epic. Exceptional beers were poured by big hitters like Sierra Nevada, Lagunitas, Lost Abbey and Surly, along with small and up-and-coming craft breweries throughout the states, and even a handful of breweries from overseas, like Belgium’s Brouwerij Verhaeghe—the makers of the iconic Duchesse De Bourgogne. Some breweries only had a few beers that met the festival’s guidelines of all beers being 7% ABV of higher, Belgian in style, and experimental in nature. Trends seen throughout the festival included an interesting connection between the craft beer and the craft cocktail communities with several breweries concocting brews to mimic classic cocktails, like Wicked Weed’s Old Fashioned, Zwei’s White Russian Imperial Stout, and Boulevard Brewing’s Rye on Rye—Sazerac. Peaches and peanut butter continued to dominant the seasonal ingredients game, but plums and rye malts were delightfully at the top of the ingredients list this year.

Beers We Could Have Consumed All Day But Would Probably Be Dead

2009 Fort – Dogfish Head Brewing Company – 15-16% ABV
One of my top five favorite beers from the fest, this aged ale brewed with a heavy hand of raspberry juice left my speechless for a few seconds, along with the fact that Sam Calagione poured it himself. Sam sightings at beer fests are kind of the best.

Krieky Bones Wild Ale with Sour Cherries – Firestone Walker Brewing Co.
I’m a sucker for a flavorful but balanced sour, and Firestone’s Krieky Bones hit the spot this weekend. A Flanders Red-style beer aged in a French Oak foeder for 24 months, completed with sour Montmorency cherries—the Krieky Bones didn’t last long in the glass.

Utopias – Sam Adams/ Boston Beer Company – 29% ABV
This beer raised my level of tipsy up three notches, but it was so worth it. Utopias is a rich, malty, dark, and slightly fruity unicorn of a beer that deserved to be sipped and savored. I saw a brewery rep (that shall remain nameless) slam a full pour of this. Just thinking about that moment makes my liver hurt again.

La Muir Morte – Wicked Weed Brewing – 6.5% ABV
Yep. As you would expect, Wicked Weed had a line right out of the gate, but after reaching the front of the line and getting my hands on this barrel-aged sour fermented with a boatload of whole blackberries, the wait was absolutely worth it.

Surly Darkness Russian Imperial Stout – Surly Brewing Company -12% ABV
This is a big beer, full of chocolate, cherry and coffee notes. This beer dominated my palate for a good two turns around the room, which was just long enough to hit up some of the random tables stocked with bowls of bread chunks and water stations.

Maple Scotch Ale – Sierra Nevada Brewing Company – 7.3% ABV
“But I thought you weren’t a fan of peat!” said someone that clearly doesn’t know me at all after my eyes rolled back in my head following a sip of Sierra Nevada’s exceptional Maple Scotch Ale. Sure, they also brought a Barrel-Aged Narwhal—but my god—the smokey and sugar combination in the Maple Scotch Ale is something I’ll dream about for awhile.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: WINTER FLY FISHING

The morning mountain air is cold, and bitter, and it reaches for my breath the second I set foot in it. For what seems like an eternity, a battle ensues—the sub-zero winter air lunging at my body—searching for a way through the layers of neoprene, and down, and wool. But I don’t feel it. I can’t feel anything other than the rod in my hand and overwhelming gratitude and awe as I wade through mounds of fresh snow and a curtain of ethereal mist rising from the river. I feel the warm Colorado sun on my cheeks and the rhythmic water of the Blue River dancing with my legs. I feel the cool line run through my hands and jolts of adrenaline surge through my body with each cast. I feel the quiet of the morning. But not once, not even a little, do a I feel the cold.

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.

DOWN ‘N DIRTY: MOUNTAIN STANDARD MERINO CAMP SOCKS

Let’s face it—with all of the amazing gear out there designed to enhance our outdoor adventures, a good pair of socks isn’t usually at the top of everyone’s gear wish list. But it just takes that one time, when you’re high up in the mountains, dealing with achey, wet feet, that you remember how important a good pair of tech socks can really be. That’s where Mountain Standard comes in. Based in Boulder, Co., Mountain Standard is small business-to-consumer company specializing in making affordable and durable premium goods for epic outdoor adventures—like the Merino Camp Socks. These mid-weight merino wool socks are soft and cozy, and feature welcomed padding on the sole of the foot, perfect for keeping your feet comfortable on extended outdoor excursions, or simply while warming up by the fireplace. And the extra padding on my tootsies wasn’t an issue when donning hefty snow boots or hiking boots, either. The fit was still comfortable and so weightless, most of the time, I forgot they were even on.

Pros: The warmth factor. These socks are great to have on hand for winter adventures. The merino wool material will keep your feet the right amount of warm whether you’re playing outside, or are posted up inside for a post-adventure adult beverage. The material is also moisture-wicking, so no matter hard how you’re working, you won’t have to worry about getting clammy, and ultimately cold feet. Perhaps the biggest pro for these well-made, comfortable socks, is the price point. Mountain Standard only sells their products directly to the consumer, eliminating the price increases added on at retail stores. So while these socks would typically retail at $40 for two pairs, they’re available for purchase on the Mountain Standard website for $15 for two pairs.

Cons: While the lower half of these socks were an excellent fit, the mid-calf rise of the sock was a little tight for my calf muscles, which aren’t exactly flat after years of hiking, mountain biking, and running around outside. A little extra give on the top half of the sock would have garnered a perfect score on my comfortability scale.

Where We Took Them: Winter fly fishing in Sun Valley, Id., and snowshoeing in Crested Butte, Co.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

In the still of the night, the crunch of the snow-packed trail beneath my snowshoes echoes in the darkness, through the nearby trees and off of the mountainsides of Crested Butte, Co. It’s so peaceful, and I catch myself holding my breath for fear of disrupting it all. But the warm light from the Magic Meadows yurt before me calls, and a soft rumble in my stomach reminds me that it’s dinnertime, so I trek on. Inside, the yurt is alive with laughter, and libations, and delicious smells emanating from the yurt’s make-shift kitchen. I warm myself by the stove before devouring dinner. It’s nearly the beginning of a new year, and friends—old and new—celebrate with stories and hugs and smiles. With a full stomach and a full heart, I head back into the night, which is quietly giving way to morning. A blanket of brilliant stars guides me home.

For more information on the Magic Meadows Yurt Dinner Experience offered by the Crested Butte Nordic Center, visit: cbnordic.org.

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. 

Photo by Tom Kolicko of Traverse Image, LLC.

EAT, SLEEP, PLAY: SUN VALLEY, IDAHO

Sun Valley, Idaho. If the breathtaking scenery in the valley that houses America’s first winter resort were good enough for the likes of the great Ernest Hemingway, the magnetic Marilyn Monroe… and Arnold Schwarzenegger, they’re most certainly good enough for me. In 1936, Sun Valley Resort was built as a premier skiing destination in the west, and to this day, the Sun Valley area—which along with the resort, also includes the delightfully charming small towns of Hailey and Ketchum—is still one of the top places in the country for a relaxing and adventurous winter vacation. With its world-class skiing and delicious après cocktails and dining scene, be sure to add Sun Valley to your list of places to explore this winter.

EAT

It’s a good thing that Sun Valley is home to some epic outdoor adventures, because this town knows how to dine. Fuel up in the morning with a hearty meal at The Kneadery in downtown Ketchum.

Breakfast at the The Kneadery.

The interior of this breakfast and lunch joint looks like a cozy mountain lodge, and smells like foodie heaven—and with the tasty rustic dishes this place is serving up, it’ll be hard to leave. But don’t spend too much time savoring breakfast. The sooner you get outside and play in the gorgeous mountains around the Wood River Valley, the sooner you can post up at the Warfield Distillery and Brewery for handcrafted cocktails made with spirits distilled in house. Anything made with the smooth housemade gin will warm you straight to the bone—but pair that with the Warfield’s elevated cuisine made with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, and the warmth from the fireplace, and you’ll be in ski town heaven. If craft beer is your après beverage of choice, check out the Sawtooth Brewery. This longtime Ketchum watering hole is making a variety of clean and crisp craft brews that pair nicely with the brewery’s pub fare.

Photo Courtesy of Traverse Image, LLC.

If a giant steak with all of the fixings is your only hope of refueling all of the calories you burned on the slopes, then head to the ultra quirky dining room of the legendary Pioneer Saloon. Originally opened in the 1940’s as a gambling casino, this popular steakhouse still retains its historical roots, right along with the mouthwatering chuckwagon-style dishes on the menu.

SLEEP

For a budget-friendly, comfortable place to lay your head that is located in the heart of downtown Ketchum, check out the Tamarack Lodge. This small, but homey lodge features rustic rooms, most of which include a fireplace and views of Bald Mountain—the area’s defining mountain. Rooms at the Tamarack average around $140 night during the busy season, making this one of the most budget-friendly options in town. For a more modern touch, check out the Limelight Hotel—which is set to officially open it’s doors near the base of Bald Mountain after the first of the year. The Limelight will feature a variety of rooms that come with all of the comforts of a modern hotel, along with killer après food and drink specials each day, and complimentary adventures like guided snowshoe tours, first tracks on the mountain, and a hefty discount on heli-skiing trips in the area. If you’re looking for some unique off-the-grid digs to post up in during your stay in Sun Valley, check out the Galena Lodge—a community-owned day lodge that offers a handful of yurt rentals for stays year-round. A short ski or snowshoe from the lodge will take you to your yurt accommodations which are nestled in the pine tree forests around the lodge. Pricing for winter rentals of one of the four lodges begins at $135 per night.

PLAY

As the birthplace of destination skiing, you have to hit the local slopes when visiting Sun Valley. Ideal weather conditions of clear skies and minimal wind make the terrain in the area exceptional for enjoying deep, powdery snow—and the absence of lift lines are the cherry on top of the cake for an epic pow day. Sun Valley’s main mountains are comprised of Bald Mountain, which has 30 acres of glade ski and boarding terrain. Across the town of Ketchum, Dollar Mountain offers more mellow terrain, perfect for beginners and kids. Sun Valley is also a destination for nordic skiing, boasting more than 200 kilometers of groomed trails in the area. Trails are maintained daily in the winter and day passes can be purchased at the Sun Valley Nordic & Snowshoe Center for $25 per person.

Can’t quite make it out to Sun Valley to enjoy the snow? This beautiful outdoor haven is also home to some epic warm weather activities—like fly fishing and mountain biking…

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

The blustery winter wind tries its best to penetrate through the walls of my warm puffy jacket, but to no avail. It’s Christmas Day. The temperature outside reads cold, but traditions are important, so I tuck the loose strands of hair under my wool beanie, lace up my hiking boots, and head west on the nearly empty trails at Boulder’s iconic Chautauqua landmark. In the distance, the regal Flatirons beckon, but the howling wind is fierce. It’s powerful gusts nip at my feet, sending them skating over the thick layer of ice on the trail. But it’s Christmas, and on Christmas, snow or shine, I wander along these trails, reflecting on the holiday season and the end of another year. The higher I climb, the harder the wind blows—until finally—I reach the welcomed cover of the trees. Stretching upward to catch the passing streaks of blue in the sky, the tree tops revel in the wind—dancing and singing and spreading holiday cheer. As I emerge from the wall of trees, the wind pauses for a moment before one final wave propels me over the last stretch of the trail—back to the beginning’s end.

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. 

5 COLORADO-INSPIRED HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It’s the pinnacle of the drawn out holiday season, which means ’tis the time of year to break into the whiskey stash and to celebrate the festivities with a good ol’ fashioned stiff alcoholic beverage. It’s hard to beat a well-crafted winter-inspired cocktail this time of year, but finding the perfect recipe for the drink that’s going to warm your soul this season isn’t always easy—unless, of course, you live in the boozy state of Colorado. With roughly 70 distilleries and a handful of nationally-recognized mixologists in the state, it was pretty easy to track down five amazing cocktails to enjoy this holiday season. From a classic old fashioned, to a sinfully good chocolate margarita, we bring you five holiday cocktails inspired by Colorado craft spirits, from the minds of the distillers and the mixologists that know them best.

Wood’s Hot Toddy

Recipe By: Woods High Mountain Distillery — Salida, CO
Featured Colorado Spirit: Wood’s Tenderfoot Whiskey

In hot mug, muddle 1 slice of orange
Add 1 TBS honey,
2 oz. Wood’s Tenderfoot Whiskey,
3 dashes of orange bitters (optional)
Top w/ hot water
Garnish w/ orange peel

291 Wintertime Old Fashioned

Recipe By: Distillery 291 — Colorado Springs, CO
Featured Colorado Spirit: Distillery 291 Colorado Bourbon Whiskey

Build the following ingredients over ice in a rocks glass:

2 oz Distillery 291 Colorado Bourbon Whiskey
1 oz Clove and Cinnamon infused simple syrup
.5 oz Cold Pressed Cranberry Juice (unsweetened)
2 dashes Orange Fee Bitters
2 dashes Fee Old Fashioned Bitters
Stir and add a garnish of fresh cranberry, orange peel and a cinnamon stick.

For Simple Syrup:
Mix 1 Tablespoon of whole clove and 6 whole cinnamon sticks into 1 cup of dry raw sugar. Let sit for 1 hour. Add 1 cup of boiling water to the sugar and mix until dissolved. Strain into glass container.

Cap Claus

Recipe By: Marble Distilling Company — Carbondale, CO
Featured Colorado Spirit: Cranberry-Infused Marble Vodka 80

Tall glass with ice
2 oz Cranberry-Infused Marble Vodka 80
1.5 oz Housemade Cranberry Juice
.75 oz Simple Syrup
Shake & Strain
Top with Soda Water
Lime Garnish

Egg Nog
Recipe By: DJ Riemer — Bar Team Leader at 24 Carrot Bistro in Erie, CO
Featured Colorado Spirit: Peach Street Distillers Colorado Straight Bourbon

5 large, fresh grade AA eggs, separated
1/2 cup superfine sugar
1 1/2 (12 fl oz.) cups of organic heavy cream
1 cup (8 fl oz.) Peach Street Distillers Colorado Straight Bourbon
3 tsp. pure almond extract
3 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground clove
1/8 tsp black pepper
pinch of salt

1.) Separate the eggs
2.) Whisk yolks until stiff
3.) Whisk egg whites with half the sugar until peaks form
4.) Slowly fold the whites and the yolks together
5.) Separately whisk the cream with almond extract, vanilla, the other spices, and the remaining sugar in a bowl until stiff
6.) Slowly fold in the cream with the egg mixture
7.) Add the rum or spirit of choice and stir gently
8.) Refrigerate overnight

Garnish: Grated nutmeg and cinnamon
Serves: 8-10

Chocolate Margaritas

Recipe By: Cholaca — Boulder, CO
Featured Colorado Spirit: Cholaca

1/4 cup Blanco Tequila
2 tbsp Cholaca
2 tbsp Cream or Half and Half
Splash Fresh lime juice
Splash Fresh orange juice
Shaved Cholaca Wafers for garnish

1.) Blend 5-6 Cholaca wafers together to make a powder for the rim and pour onto a flat plate
2.) Cut 4-5 Cholaca wafers into fourths for garnish
3.) Rim a chilled margarita glass with lime and Choloca powder
4.) Pour the liquors, juices, and Cholaca into a blender with one cup of ice
5.) Blend until smooth
6.) Pour into prepared glass. Top with Cholaca shavings

Ride the Rails: Our Favorite Winter Train Trips

Even though flying is the main mode of transportation for many travelers, the U.S. still holds onto the romanticism and sense of adventure that is often associated with rail travel. Several historic railroad services still operate daily trains that connect North America -- some even enticing passengers with unique vacation packages. So skip the busy airports this holiday season and hop aboard one of these five fun train trips this winter.

Amtrak's Coast Starlight

Dining car on Coast Starlight / Flickr

A trip up the beautiful Pacific Coast should be on everyone’s travel bucket list, and there’s no better way to take in the breathtaking views of the west coast than from the cozy seat of a train. Amtrak’s Coast Starlight runs daily between Los Angeles and Seattle -- making stops in Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay area, and Portland -- as it chugs along the shoreline and past snow-capped peaks. During the 35-hour trek, passengers can take in the sights of the Puget Sound, the Cascade Range, and the Willamette Valley. Opt to relax in the comfort of the sleeper car or go for business class, which will grant you access to a wine and cheese party in the Pacific Parlour Car; whichever seat you end up in, plan on a restful journey full of stunning vistas.

Winter Park Express Train

Union Station in Denver / Flickr

If a weekend ski trip in the Colorado mountains is in your forecast this season, then the Winter Park Express train is for you. Operated by Amtrak, this train departs from Denver’s historic Union Station on Saturdays and Sundays (between January 7 and March 26 in 2017), then runs through the snow-covered mountains of Colorado to the charming mountain ski town of Winter Park. Here's where you’ll find some of the best powder around, as well as affordable vacation rentals, Winter Park Resort, and a hearty dining scene. The best thing about this option is breezing past the heavy traffic that other snow-bound travelers face when hitting the slopes every weekend.

Amtrak’s Adirondack

Fort Edward, New York / Flickr

Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple? Jump aboard Amtrak’s Adirondack train, which travels along the eastern border of New York, through rolling hills and classic northeastern scenery, and ultimately ends in Montreal. Depart in the morning from NYC's Penn Station or other stations in the state and by evening, you’ll be in the thick of Montreal’s diverse dining scene and festive holiday celebrations -- like sledding, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing.

New Orleans Holiday Express

City of New Orleans / Flickr

The Big Easy is a fantastic place to visit year-round thanks to its warm temperatures and vibrant nightlife, but the holiday season is an exceptionally wonderful time to travel to this fabulous city. The New Orleans Holiday Express is a five-day vacation package that departs from Chicago and travels 1,800 miles to the Crescent City. The tour includes accommodations on the train for one night, three-night Hilton New Orleans Riverside stay, hop-on/hop-off tour, and an evening jazz cruise. Pricing for this package is from $498.

The Polar Express Train Ride

Polar Express / Facebook

This one is perfect for families. Rail Events, Inc.'s Polar Express -- themed to Chris Van Allsburg's timeless tale of the same name -- departs from train stations all over the country (including in Maryland, New York, Missouri, and Washington State). Passengers can wear pajamas on the 60-minute round-trip ride, on which they'll be given hot chocolate and cookies, hear a reading of The Polar Express, and meet Santa himself.

WHERE TO FIND GOOD BEER ON YOUR HOLIDAY LAYOVER

It’s here. One of the busiest and most grueling travel weeks of the year. If you’re lucky, you’ll skate through airports with the greatest of ease, effortlessly making your way through security, to your gate, and onto the plane, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable flight to your holiday destination of choice. But let’s be real—the chances of that happening are pretty slim—which is why we put together this guide to help you track down craft beer in some of the most common airports in the U.S. for layovers, overnighters, and delays during the holiday season.

Fingers crossed you won’t actually need this guide this week, but just in case…

Denver International Airport

Root Down DIA (Concourse C)

When members of the craft beer industry pass through the Denver International Airport, this is most likely where you’ll find them. Root Down DIA has 20+ tap handles dedicated to Colorado craft beers—with a couple of gluten-free beers and ciders mixed in to boot. And the brunch and dinner menus are pretty killer, too. If weather strands you in Denver this holiday season—don’t panic. Just head to Root Down DIA and take your own tour of Colorado craft breweries without ever leaving your barstool.

Lounge 5280 (Concourse B)

If you’re traveling with a crew of (gasp!) non-beer drinkers this week, then suggest grabbing a drink at Lounge 5280 located in Concourse B. Along with an admirable selection of Colorado craft beers, this airport gem is also serving up a huge menu of spirits, including several delicious Colorado-inspired craft cocktails. A little something boozy for everyone.

Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs (Concourse B)

If you get delayed in Concourse B of DIA, head straight to Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs. This beloved Denver establishment is also serving up it’s popular menu at the city’s airport. Along with a handful of craft beers on tap, Steve’s also has a large selection of speciality hot dogs, hamburgers, and sandwiches—all for under $10 each.

The Boulder Beer Taphouse at DIA (Main Terminal)

Colorado’s first craft brewery is technically located in the city of Boulder, but if your time in the state is limited to the interior of the airport, then head to The Boulder Beer Taphouse. Here you’ll find a selection of this trailblazing brewery’s craft beer staples, like the The Buff Gold Golden Ale and Mojo IPA, along with a selection of limited release brews and rotating “Brewer’s Choice” speciality beers.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Carolina Beer Company (Terminal D)

I don’t know about you, but a good chunk of my airline layovers occur at the Charlotte Douglas Airport, and unlike some of the other airports on this list—good, locally-made craft beers are a little harder to track down in this busy travel hub. Charlotte Douglas is pretty easy to maneuver around in, so it don’t worry about venturing away from your gate to find yourself some craft beer. Head to Terminal D where you’ll find The Carolina Beer Company. Though the airport location doesn’t come with a huge amount of beer options, the brews that are available are pretty decent, and will definitely suffice for fans of craft beer with a few hours of time on their hands to kill.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport

Goose Island Brewing Co. (Terminals 1 & 3)

Yep, Goose Island still rules the roost in the Windy City, which is why it’s the most accessible option for craft beer fans looking for a brew between flights. You’ll find Goose Island hubs in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3—both locations featuring a handful of the brewery’s well-known selection of draft and bottled beers. Both airport locations are also serving up standard pub fare, but if you can’t fathom a visit to the Chicago area without enjoying a sinfully good Chicago dog, then take advantage of O’Hare’s awesome liquor laws, order a beer to go, and head over to Terminal 1 where you can order a Chicago Dog done up right at America’s Dog.

Stanley’s Kitchen and Tap (Terminal 2)

A staple in Chicago’s dining scene, Stanley’s Kitchen and Tap lives up to it’s name—even in the confines of the O’Hare airport. You’ll find a respectable selection of Chicago-area craft brews along with traditional pub fare with a Chicago twist.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

SweetWater Draft House & Grill (Concourse B)

A visit to the ATL should always include a crisp, refreshing pint of 420 Extra Pale Ale, but if you’re visit to Georgia’s capital stops at the airport, then you’re still in luck. SweetWater Brewing Company has a draft house and grill in Concourse B. This gem in the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport always includes a handful of SweetWater beers on tap, with several more of the brewery’s beers available in bottle form. Good beer and good burgers pair nicely together, and this is a great spot in the airport to find both.

San Francisco Intercontinental Airport

Firewood Cafe (International Terminal – Near Gate A1/Domestic Terminal – Terminal 3)

If your holiday travels leave you stranded in the San Francisco Airport, be grateful—there are worse places for craft beer drinkers to be stranded. If you’re layover is a long one, head over to one of the Firewood Cafe locations in SFO. Both cafe’s have a full-service bar with a decently-large selection of affordable beers on tap. You’ll also find delicious pizza and lighter airport fare on the menu.

Perry’s (Terminal 1 – Boarding Area C near Gate 42)

Sit down and take a load off at Perry’s in SFO. A popular San Francisco dining joint, Perry’s has a respectable selection of beers on tap, and boasts a comfortable vibe that will make you forget you’re stuck at the airport. Beer pairs nicely with juicy burgers and sandwiches, which is what you’ll find on the menu at Perry’s.

DOWN ‘N DIRTY: LANDER CASCADE POWERBANK (7800 MAH)

It’s rare when you’re traveling that you get to be the hero. Usually it’s the other way around—more often than not it’s a cab driver, or the concierge at your hotel, or a seasoned backcountry traveller that saves the day with a USB cable or an external battery that powers your phone back up—getting you back on track with your travels. But last month—it was me—I was the hero. And I wasn’t just the hero once, I was the hero multiple times, saving everyone from veteran travelers to wilderness guides from experiencing the technology blackout that comes along with prolonged time away from an outlet.

Since adding the Lander Cascade Powerbank (7800 mAh) to my stash of must-have gear, I not only have been able to keep my own smart phone fully charged at all times, but even on days that I’ve used it to power up my own technology, I’ve still be able to share the battery wealth with others and help those around me stay charged up, too.

Pros: This thing is a beast. Once it’s fully charged and all four LED power indicators are lit up, it will quickly take your phone from in the red, to fully charged within about 30 to 45 minutes. Each power indicator is equivalent to nearly one full charge for an iPhone. And although it’s a little heavier than most external chargers that I’ve owned, it’s still lightweight and small enough to fit in whatever backpack or travel bag you’re carrying. The Cascade Powerbank also has dual USB ports, which means that if you have two USB cords, you can charge two phones at once. It also means that you can charge the power bank and your phone at the same time. The Cascade Powerbank is also available in a smaller 5200 mAh version or an even smaller 2600 mAh version—all powerful chargers that get the job done.

Cons: Although the Lander Cascade Powerbank (7800 MAH) juices up your phone quickly, it can be a little slow-going when charging up. The powerbank generally takes more than a few hours to fully charge up, so to get the most out of this external battery, you have to stay on top of its charging schedule. With a retail value of $69.99, the 7800 mAh power bank is more expensive than the majority of external battery packs on the market, but you definitely get what you pay for.

Where We Took It: On travels throughout remote areas of Quebec, the Pacific Northwest, and in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: WHO CALLS IN THE NIGHT?

It’s cold outside—so cold, the thermometer barely manages to rise above zero. But inside, bundled up in a makeshift blanket fort and surrounded by a dizzying sea of tissues and cold medicine, it’s burning up. Somewhere out there, the mountains are calling me, but I can’t hear the sound. The bitter cold outside has ushered in a bitter silence that reverberates throughout the walls of my head. The still snowfall and the stoic sky absorb the quiet, but as the sun begins to set over the silent landscape, a gentle cry rings out in the night—drifting to my window on the waves of the chilly night air.

Curious, I emerge from my cold haze and venture outside to see who calls in the night.

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. 

INSTAGRAM TAKEOVER: CRESTED BUTTE NORDIC’S ALLEY LOOP

Colorado Nordic fans are gearing up for the 31st Annual Alley Loop Nordic Marathon set to take place on February 4, 2017. We caught up with Drew Holbrook, Marketing Director at Crested Butte Nordic, to learn more about this unique cross country ski race with a course that runs right through downtown Crested Butte.

1. What is the Alley Loop?

The Alley Loop is Colorado’s biggest cross country ski race and an American Birkebeiner qualifier. The race is put on by Crested Butte Nordic, which happens to be the Nordic Ski Capital of Colorado.

2. What makes this race so unique?

The race is unique for three reasons: the course, the people, and the spirit.  The course starts, finishes, and passes through the heart of downtown Crested Butte, winding around on snow covered streets, narrow alleys, and one lane bridges.  It then heads out onto the scenic nordic trails around Crested Butte. Most people that attend the race dress up in costumes, even some of the racers. The whole town comes out to cheer you on as you go by.  The race has a different spirit than any other nordic ski race. In a sport that can often be overly serious, the Alley Loop is just about getting out there and having a good time. Some of the top racers in the country come out for the event but they have to pass people in costume who barely know how to ski in order to get to the finish line.

3. How many years has Alley Loop been taking place in Crested Butte?

The Alley Loop will be turning 31 this February. It was 31 years ago that a small group of people who made up the Crested Butte Nordic Council thought that it would be cool to have a race that went through town.

4. Who makes this race possible?

It is a lot of work to put on an event like this and it takes a whole community to pull it off. Business owners and residents allow us to fill their streets and alleys with snow. They have to move their cars and their homes and businesses can only be reached on foot. The Town of Crested Butte dedicates a huge amount of resources to fill the streets with snow before the event. Then, they close off a portion of town to cars while the event is going on. The volunteers make it all happen when the event starts. It takes about 60 volunteers to pull the event off. They distribute bibs to 700 racers, stop traffic in town so that racers can pass through, shovel snow onto the streets, man aid stations; the list is endless.

5. What is the most outrageous costume you’ve seen a participant in?

There are too many to just name one. One year Superman won the main event: the 42K skate race. Trump did pretty well last year too. The group costumes really shine through though: oompa loompas, garden gnomes, minions, pool balls, the Keystone XL Pipeline; you name it.

6. What is the Pub-Ski?

The Alley Loop Pub Ski is a pub crawl on skis. The night before the race, the main street, Elk Avenue, is filled with snow so people take advantage of it by skiing from bar to bar. They get free drinks and play games to score points. Most of the people dress up in costume. It’s a pretty good time and quite the scene.

7. How can we sign up?

You can sign up at cbnordic.org.

8. Can you share any other fun facts with us about this race or the event weekend?

The event may seem like a wacky locals party, and it is. But, it’s also a pretty big deal as far as nordic races go. We introduced a $5,000 cash purse last year and got some world-class competitors from Europe who are skiing for American colleges. Last year, we saw times that were faster than we ever thought possible. It was a whole new level of racing. The best part is that these Germans and Norwegians just loved the kookiness of the event. They were racing for big bucks but just couldn’t get over the fact that they had to blow by all of these costume-clad kooks. They hadn’t ever seen anything like it.

Photo Courtesy of Crested Butte Nordic Center

Check out this beautiful video of past Alley Loop races through the town of Crested Butte: https://vimeo.com/171855385, and get hyped for this year’s race by staying tuned to www.instagram.com/elevationout this week for more beautiful images from the Crested Butte Nordic Center of this funky small town race.

Crested Butte Nordic, founded in 1987, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to provide individuals of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enjoy, and improve in the sports of Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. We maintain over 50 kilometers of meticulously groomed trails around the Town of Crested Butte and offer complete ski and snowshoe rental packages as well as private lessons, clinics, tours, and fine yurt dining. Our Nordic Center and trailheads are within walking distance from all of Crested Butte’s restaurants and lodgings.

5 Colorado Beers For Your Holiday Table

Steve Kurowski, operations manager of the Colorado Brewers Guild, shares his favorite local brews for holiday sipping.

’Tis the season to gather around the table and celebrate with delicious food—and more importantly—great libations. In the sudsy state of Colorado, craft beer is already a holiday menu staple, but with approximately 300 local craft breweries making exceptional beers, how do you choose which ones to serve? We caught up with Colorado Brewers Guild operations manager and craft beer expert Steve Kurowski for his top picks.

Featherweight Pale Ale

Cannonball Creek Brewing Company

“No, this is not a holiday beer, or even a seasonal beer. It’s a clean, balanced craft beer with a low ABV percentage, and it just might be my favorite beer to drink all day long—which is something that happens around the holidays. You can’t buy it in a liquor store, though; you have to visit the Cannonball Creek tap-room in Golden and fill your growlers, each and every one of them.” 393 N. Washington Ave., Golden, 303-278-0111

Dunwich Robust Porter

Trve Brewing Co.

“Trve is known for brewing super creative and damn tasty beers using mixed cultures, farm-sourced fruit, and using wooden barrels to ferment a handful of beers. Each year around this time, they tap this beauty, one of the smoothest, easiest drinking porters I’ve ever had. Again, the only place to get it is at Trve’s Broadway tasting room, so don’t forget your growler.” 227 Broadway, #101, 303-351-1021

Hibernation English-Style Old Ale

Great Divide Brewing Company

“This beer has been around for as long as I can remember and has been winning medals since the ‘90s. Yes, I said the ‘90s. And every single year, this beer is reliably delicious. Great Divide has darn near perfected the dry-hopped, English-style, old ale over the years.” 2201 Arapahoe St.; 1812 35th St., 303-296-9460

Motif

Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project

“Motif is a take on a Belgian Dark Strong (nine percent ABV), fermented with the brewery’s mixed culture of wild yeast and bacteria in large oak foeders (barrels). This complex beer will pair well with any holiday meal. Motif is also perfect for aging, and will make a great addition to your beer cellar as well as the holiday table. You can buy the 2015 version of this beer at the Crooked Stave Tasting Room at the Source.” 3350 Brighton Blvd., 720-550-8860

Isolation Ale

Odell Brewing Company

“If there was such a thing as a “comfort beer,” this classic would be it for me. Isolation warms me with roasted malty flavors and has a beautiful mahogany color that makes it look as beautiful as it tastes. One of Doug Odell’s earliest seasonal recipes, this beer has become a staple for many Colorado craft beer lovers.” 800 E. Lincoln Ave., Fort Collins, 970-478-9070

DOWN ‘N DIRTY: LOWA MELROSE GTX MID BOOT (WOMEN’S)

A few months ago, I snagged a pair of brand new, super sleek Lowa Melrose GTX Mid Boots—and started the process of patiently waiting for the first snowfall. Fall turned into winter, and no snow. November turned into December, and no snow. I started traveling to snowy destinations in the Rocky Mountain region, and everywhere I went, the bone-dry conditions were blessed with snowfall the day after my departure. Convinced that the boots were cursed, I returned back home to Boulder, Co., and the next day—it snowed. I’ve been living in the boots ever since. And the verdict? These boots are awesome. Lowa boots are hand-crafted in Europe, using a business model that places an emphasis on sustainable practices. True to their size, the Melrose GTX Mid Boots are the perfect boot for women living in mountain towns, where the cold can seep into your bones and the snowdrift piles last well into spring.

Pros: The warmth factor in these boots is exceptional. The lining is made with GORE-TEX® Partelana® technologies, which means the fabric is durable and waterproof, but still breathable. My boots fit true-to-size, and even though it gets a little snug, they still have room for a nice pair of wool socks. The exterior of the boot is made with full grain leather, making them extremely waterproof. But it’s the sole of this boot is possibly my favorite thing about it. The grip is wonderful, even on those pesky sheets of black ice. This boot is also super stylish, and looks great with everything from jeans, to leggings, to your favorite outerwear.

Cons: While these boots will keep your feet exceptionally warm when you’re out and about outside, they can get a little toasty when you make the transition from outdoor actives to indoor activities. It’s hard to fault something for doing it’s job so well, but the toastyness factor of this boot can be slightly uncomfortable if you wear them inside for too long. Since the boots only come up to the calf level, they aren’t the best footwear option for playing around in area’s with a large snow accumulation, but the laces run up to the very top of the boot, creating a pretty solid barrier between your warm and cozy feet, and any rouge snowflakes. The Lowa Melrose GTX Mid Boots are great for casual everyday-wear, and work best for city adventures, not-so-much for backcountry fun.

Where We Took It: Sun Valley, Idaho. Ann Arbor, Michigan. Boulder, Colorado.

POSTCARDS FROM THE WEEKEND: ALL THE PRETTY LIGHTS

High up in the foothills of Colorado, there’s a special place where the glowing lights from the cities below dance together with the natural well-lit hues that delicately illuminate the sparkling tree branches and snowy mountain tops that surround you. It’s an ethereal place—where even time seems to get lost in the moment. It’s a place where the only thing that really matters when the sun and the moon trade shifts for the day—are all of the pretty lights.

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. 

IBEX SET TO OPEN DENVER RETAIL SHOP THIS SATURDAY

 

TYRA SUTAKDECEMBER 8, 2016

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On Saturday, December 10, Ibex Outdoor Clothing will celebrate the grand opening of their inaugural retail shop in Colorado with giveaways, and a happy hour featuring Wyoming Whiskey and a variety of Colorado craft beers and locally-made wines. The clothing company, which specializes in fashionable and functional merino wool apparel, will kick of the party at noon—handing out gift bags to the first 50 people in the door at the brand new location at 250 Columbine Street, Suite 115 in Denver’s Cherry Creek North neighborhood—followed by happy hour which begins at 5 pm. The Denver location is the third retail store opened by Ibex which was founded in Woodstock, NY in 1997. The company also operates retail shops in Seattle and Boston. Ibex is breaking out their latest line of clothing, and complimentary gift wrapping will be available for holiday shoppers looking to gift their loved ones with durable, fashionable, and comfortable outdoor apparel.