Draft Horse|adoptadrafthorse.com
Feb
10
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
JCVdude asked:
These European work horses are huge, some weighing in at more 1500 pounds. I love to watch them when they are getting ready to pull the sled and the horses start prancing before the pull. These draft Horses are spectacular animals.
draft horse blanket
Nov
01
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Claire Chappell asked:
In northwest Colorado lies a quaint mountain town with a wealth of options for outdoor adventure. Steamboat Springs began as a ranching community, and it still embodies its western heritage. The locals are welcoming and the snow is famous for being both abundant and light. Last year, nearly 500 inches of snow fell on the mountains of Steamboat. The ski resort is known for wonderful tree-skiing in its wide open Aspen glades. About 3,000 acres of diverse terrain is open for skiers and snowboarders to explore.
Steamboat has been appropriately nicknamed “Ski town U.S.A”, but if you find yourself here for a week in the winter, don’t stick to the slopes. Steamboat has many other outdoor adventure opportunities. Travelers are able to try new sports and take advantage of this winter playground. Activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice climbing, horseback riding, sleigh rides, tubing and snowcat skiing in the backcountry. After participating in one of these adventures, visitors can utilize another of Steamboat’s delightful attributes…its secluded mountain hot springs.
Snowmobiling has become a favorite pastime in Steamboat Springs. Riders come from far and wide to play in this area. A handful of local outfitters offer guided snowmobile tours, some of them operate in Routt National Forest and the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness Area. Thousands of acres are open to motorized sports, with incredibly diverse topography. The terrain varies from mellow groomed trails to steep, jagged pitches. This provides fun for everyone, no matter how much they have or have not ridden in the past.
Horseback Riding over the hills and through sunlit aspen glades is a peaceful endeavor. For those who seek to enjoy the mountain wilderness in a non-motorized fashion, a horseback ride is ideal. Other options for a quiet excursion in the backcountry include snowshoeing or nordic (cross-country) skiing. These activities combine post-card perfect scenery and a little bit of exercise. Also, because hikers and skiers make a limited amount of noise, there is a great chance of spotting wildlife! Break up the excursion by stopping at a secluded igloo for a snack and a hot drink.
Snowcat skiing offers an adrenaline-filled day for skiers and riders who are ready for powder. A snowcat is an enclosed-cab, truck sized, fully tracked vehicle designed to move on snow. They are also know as “trail groomers” because of their use for grooming on the slopes. Few other towns have a backcountry ski service that employs heated snowcats to transport guests, avoiding long hikes that take time away from skiing. These machines can drive guests up to high elevations to find abundant untracked powder. Each group is separated by ability level and accompanied by a professional guide. Even intermediate or “blue run” skiers can experience powder skiing in the backcountry. Experts are taken to different areas with steeps, deeps, lots of trees and rocks to launch off. Only one outfitter is permitted to run tours in the Buffalo Pass area which boasts 10,000 acres of accessable terrain. Skiers and boarders are practically guaranteed fresh powder.
The tubing hills are gaining popularity each year, especially with the younger crowds. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill sledding hill. The rolling hills are fast enough to get adrenaline pumping, even for adults. The tubing hill is groomed and equipped with a state of the art tube-tow lift system that attaches itself to the tube to transport users back to the top with minimal effort. This saves the time spent on hiking up the hill and leaves more for flying down.
For evening entertainment, try a dinner sleigh ride. This outdoor experience is great for families or couples and includes a hearty, home-cooked meal. The sleigh is comfortable with a large wool blanket to cuddle beneath as powerful draft horses with jingling harnesses pull you through the snow. Breathtaking views are to be enjoyed from your cozy perch as the alpen-glow dims into a starry night. Upon arriving to the warm lodge, the smell of delicious food is pleasing, as is the taste of hot chocolate or warm apple cider.
One of the best secrets about Steamboat is the natural hot springs for which the town was named. Early settlers stumbled upon a steaming and bubbling source that lies in the middle of the present-day town. To the settlers, the spring made a sound similar to that of a Steamboat. Much of the area sits atop geo-thermal activity. There are two different commercial locations for locals and travelers to take advantage of this gift from mother nature. The minerals in the water have been said to have a healing effect and there is no denying how immensely relaxing the pools are. Each of the springs that are open to the public have been strategically diverted in order to create a variety of pools, from ice cold to steaming hot. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs allows guests to soak away their aching muscle while taking in views of the surrounding wilderness. Its the perfect end to an active day spent outdoors in the mountains.
The mountains of Steamboat Springs, Colorado can certainly keep you busy. Next time you plan a ski vacation, be sure to incorporate more than just skiing or snowboarding. There is so much to gain from interacting with the outdoors and so many ways to do it. Steamboat is a unique town with unparalled opportunities for outdoor recreation. Come and be active in the mountains with your friends or loved ones, its sure to produce wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
FERMIN
In northwest Colorado lies a quaint mountain town with a wealth of options for outdoor adventure. Steamboat Springs began as a ranching community, and it still embodies its western heritage. The locals are welcoming and the snow is famous for being both abundant and light. Last year, nearly 500 inches of snow fell on the mountains of Steamboat. The ski resort is known for wonderful tree-skiing in its wide open Aspen glades. About 3,000 acres of diverse terrain is open for skiers and snowboarders to explore.
Steamboat has been appropriately nicknamed “Ski town U.S.A”, but if you find yourself here for a week in the winter, don’t stick to the slopes. Steamboat has many other outdoor adventure opportunities. Travelers are able to try new sports and take advantage of this winter playground. Activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice climbing, horseback riding, sleigh rides, tubing and snowcat skiing in the backcountry. After participating in one of these adventures, visitors can utilize another of Steamboat’s delightful attributes…its secluded mountain hot springs.
Snowmobiling has become a favorite pastime in Steamboat Springs. Riders come from far and wide to play in this area. A handful of local outfitters offer guided snowmobile tours, some of them operate in Routt National Forest and the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness Area. Thousands of acres are open to motorized sports, with incredibly diverse topography. The terrain varies from mellow groomed trails to steep, jagged pitches. This provides fun for everyone, no matter how much they have or have not ridden in the past.
Horseback Riding over the hills and through sunlit aspen glades is a peaceful endeavor. For those who seek to enjoy the mountain wilderness in a non-motorized fashion, a horseback ride is ideal. Other options for a quiet excursion in the backcountry include snowshoeing or nordic (cross-country) skiing. These activities combine post-card perfect scenery and a little bit of exercise. Also, because hikers and skiers make a limited amount of noise, there is a great chance of spotting wildlife! Break up the excursion by stopping at a secluded igloo for a snack and a hot drink.
Snowcat skiing offers an adrenaline-filled day for skiers and riders who are ready for powder. A snowcat is an enclosed-cab, truck sized, fully tracked vehicle designed to move on snow. They are also know as “trail groomers” because of their use for grooming on the slopes. Few other towns have a backcountry ski service that employs heated snowcats to transport guests, avoiding long hikes that take time away from skiing. These machines can drive guests up to high elevations to find abundant untracked powder. Each group is separated by ability level and accompanied by a professional guide. Even intermediate or “blue run” skiers can experience powder skiing in the backcountry. Experts are taken to different areas with steeps, deeps, lots of trees and rocks to launch off. Only one outfitter is permitted to run tours in the Buffalo Pass area which boasts 10,000 acres of accessable terrain. Skiers and boarders are practically guaranteed fresh powder.
The tubing hills are gaining popularity each year, especially with the younger crowds. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill sledding hill. The rolling hills are fast enough to get adrenaline pumping, even for adults. The tubing hill is groomed and equipped with a state of the art tube-tow lift system that attaches itself to the tube to transport users back to the top with minimal effort. This saves the time spent on hiking up the hill and leaves more for flying down.
For evening entertainment, try a dinner sleigh ride. This outdoor experience is great for families or couples and includes a hearty, home-cooked meal. The sleigh is comfortable with a large wool blanket to cuddle beneath as powerful draft horses with jingling harnesses pull you through the snow. Breathtaking views are to be enjoyed from your cozy perch as the alpen-glow dims into a starry night. Upon arriving to the warm lodge, the smell of delicious food is pleasing, as is the taste of hot chocolate or warm apple cider.
One of the best secrets about Steamboat is the natural hot springs for which the town was named. Early settlers stumbled upon a steaming and bubbling source that lies in the middle of the present-day town. To the settlers, the spring made a sound similar to that of a Steamboat. Much of the area sits atop geo-thermal activity. There are two different commercial locations for locals and travelers to take advantage of this gift from mother nature. The minerals in the water have been said to have a healing effect and there is no denying how immensely relaxing the pools are. Each of the springs that are open to the public have been strategically diverted in order to create a variety of pools, from ice cold to steaming hot. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs allows guests to soak away their aching muscle while taking in views of the surrounding wilderness. Its the perfect end to an active day spent outdoors in the mountains.
The mountains of Steamboat Springs, Colorado can certainly keep you busy. Next time you plan a ski vacation, be sure to incorporate more than just skiing or snowboarding. There is so much to gain from interacting with the outdoors and so many ways to do it. Steamboat is a unique town with unparalled opportunities for outdoor recreation. Come and be active in the mountains with your friends or loved ones, its sure to produce wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
FERMIN
Sep
21
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Mark Scriven asked:
The classic 380-mile Pacific Ocean coastal drive, along scenic Highway 101, between Los Angeles and San Francisco, takes you through Carmel and Santa Barbara, and along a dramatic Big Sur coastline. You can stop along the way to see many attractions - highlights include the Monterey Bay Aquarium and William Randolph Hearst’s hilltop castle.
Begin your journey with a tour around Los Angeles’ affluent Rodeo Drive to see how the movie stars live, then after a dose of glamour and glitz head for hip Venice Beach for a spot of people watching. Continue on to Santa Barbara, where you can tour the city’s spectacularly beautiful Wine Country, go for a hiking or biking tour, visit the many beautiful gardens or relax on the beach. Moving north you pass through the predominantly Danish town of Solvang, where draft horses pull an authentic Danish streetcar through the town.
You may be ready for a stopover by the time you reach St Luis Obispo, which has a delightful downtown area known as Mission Plaza, set alongside a creek, with the beautifully restored mission nearby. If you’d like to experience over-the-top kitsch, stay at the 109-room Madonna Inn at with its thematically decorated rooms. Next day you could drive to Prismo Beach, bordered by the Oceano Sand Dunes, where you can actually drive your vehicle onto the beach. Just up the road at Simeon you’ll find the Hearst Castle with its 165 rooms. Don’t miss the Billiard Room or the Celestial Suite indoors, or the magnificent surrounding formal gardens, modelled after gardens in Spain and Italy.
The Big Sur Road and Monterey
From here, the road winds along the coastline, with breathtaking views of the surf below on the left, and the Big Sur Mountains rising to 5,000 feet on the right. Take your time, as the road has many blind corners. Around Carmel, you can visit some of California’s old Spanish missions. At Monterey, spend some time at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the United States, and one of the best in the world. It’s packed with marine exhibits, displaying more than 550 different species. The Outer Bay exhibit features the marine species found in the waters of the eastern Pacific.
The final leg of your classic drive takes you through Santa Cruz, where a long-established surfing culture inspired movies (such as Gidget) and the music of artists like The Beach Boys. Surfing fans might like to stop at the Surfing Museum and visit the beach to see if the surf’s up.
Arriving in San Francisco, one of the most visited cities in the US, with its famous bridge and steep hills, is always a buzz. You should do all the touristy things like ride a cable car, visit bustling Chinatown, and walk along Fisherman’s Wharf, where any number of restaurants might tempt you. Try to take the ferry trip to Alcatraz, for a glimpse of the old penal system, and you’ll understand why no prisoners escaped this harsh, isolated institution. A walk around the huge Golden Gate Park is an arboreal and floral delight and the perfect ending to your classic drive.
ADOLPH
The classic 380-mile Pacific Ocean coastal drive, along scenic Highway 101, between Los Angeles and San Francisco, takes you through Carmel and Santa Barbara, and along a dramatic Big Sur coastline. You can stop along the way to see many attractions - highlights include the Monterey Bay Aquarium and William Randolph Hearst’s hilltop castle.
Begin your journey with a tour around Los Angeles’ affluent Rodeo Drive to see how the movie stars live, then after a dose of glamour and glitz head for hip Venice Beach for a spot of people watching. Continue on to Santa Barbara, where you can tour the city’s spectacularly beautiful Wine Country, go for a hiking or biking tour, visit the many beautiful gardens or relax on the beach. Moving north you pass through the predominantly Danish town of Solvang, where draft horses pull an authentic Danish streetcar through the town.
You may be ready for a stopover by the time you reach St Luis Obispo, which has a delightful downtown area known as Mission Plaza, set alongside a creek, with the beautifully restored mission nearby. If you’d like to experience over-the-top kitsch, stay at the 109-room Madonna Inn at with its thematically decorated rooms. Next day you could drive to Prismo Beach, bordered by the Oceano Sand Dunes, where you can actually drive your vehicle onto the beach. Just up the road at Simeon you’ll find the Hearst Castle with its 165 rooms. Don’t miss the Billiard Room or the Celestial Suite indoors, or the magnificent surrounding formal gardens, modelled after gardens in Spain and Italy.
The Big Sur Road and Monterey
From here, the road winds along the coastline, with breathtaking views of the surf below on the left, and the Big Sur Mountains rising to 5,000 feet on the right. Take your time, as the road has many blind corners. Around Carmel, you can visit some of California’s old Spanish missions. At Monterey, spend some time at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the United States, and one of the best in the world. It’s packed with marine exhibits, displaying more than 550 different species. The Outer Bay exhibit features the marine species found in the waters of the eastern Pacific.
The final leg of your classic drive takes you through Santa Cruz, where a long-established surfing culture inspired movies (such as Gidget) and the music of artists like The Beach Boys. Surfing fans might like to stop at the Surfing Museum and visit the beach to see if the surf’s up.
Arriving in San Francisco, one of the most visited cities in the US, with its famous bridge and steep hills, is always a buzz. You should do all the touristy things like ride a cable car, visit bustling Chinatown, and walk along Fisherman’s Wharf, where any number of restaurants might tempt you. Try to take the ferry trip to Alcatraz, for a glimpse of the old penal system, and you’ll understand why no prisoners escaped this harsh, isolated institution. A walk around the huge Golden Gate Park is an arboreal and floral delight and the perfect ending to your classic drive.
ADOLPH
May
20
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Maria Luce Cardelli asked:
One of the most cherished events that take place in Italy is the Palio. From far and wide, regionally and globally; people travel all the way to come and witness this exciting horse racing event so that by the time the whole thing is over, there are lots of talks and snapshots being exchanged all around the place. The Palio is a tourism magnet for the Italians and other Europeans who always look forward to this wonderful event. The Palio horse race is both a tourist attraction for the country and a money spinner for the tourism industry as well. Days before the actual event is held, people would have already been preparing in different ways. From those who are buying costumes for that special day to those who would be taking good advantage of the occasion to make quick returns on any goods or services they are offering. The Palio is heralded with lots of fun and fanfare with many activities to back it up. There are parades and processions all contributing to make the main event worth attending. You will come across people from diverse cultures from all around the world who all converge in Italy to be a part of the fun train.
The horse race event presents a good opportunity to make new friends as well as learn new things about the famous Italian celebration. The Palio horse race is an event whereby bare-back horse races are conducted every summer. The horse race is usually held in Piazza del Campo immediately after the procession is finished. The Palio is a fascinating sport for the players while for spectators; the horse race remains a lovely spectacle that must not be missed. Palio is a little cruel when judged by the way the sport is played. The real protagonists in the game are the horses which keep racing (and may still win too) even if in the course of the race, they mistakenly lose their jockeys or riders. For those who have never watched it, the real surprise in Palio is that the entire race only lasts for a little above 5 minutes as it goes round the edges of Piazza del Campo. In order to get acquainted with the major phases of the Palio horse race, four days are set aside for the celebration. It is equally important to know out of 17 contrade, only ten will run every time. Furthermore, their participation in the race is often decided by means of a draw.
This draw takes place not less than 20 days before each Palio race is scheduled to hold. The 7 contrade that did not run in the race of that same day, the year before, are eligible to run; the other 3 contrade are drawn from the initial 10 that had participated. The draft is the procedure by which horses are allocated to the 10 contrade who participate in the Palio horse race. The third day, in the morning before the race, the racing horses are presented one after the other by their owners, the presentation is done in the courtyard of the Municipality Town Hall, also known as the Entrone. Here, they are thoroughly examined by veterinarians who have been delegated by the municipality. Theirs is to evaluate the physical conditions and morphology of the racing horses. These horses are first put into different groups for trial purposes. They are then tested for only 3 laps around the Piazza del Campo so that they can be evaluated for their adaptability to the racing tracks. After the trial runs, the captains come together before the Mayor in order to decide which horses adapt the most.
Next, the draw is conducted on an open platform outside the Entrone or Municipality Town Hall. Afterwards, one horse is assigned a contrada. There are usually six trials which all take place at 9:00 am every morning and evening around 7:00 pm. After the Parade is over, there is a big burst of canon fire that is announced to signify the jockeys’ departure from the Entrone. Every jockey is handed a horse whip which he uses to incite his horse to further ignite a forward response. The jockey uses these strategies to block other opponents during the course of the race. Before the actual race begins, the starter opens the race with the lowering of the rope. The start is considered invalid if the cracker goes off and stops the horses. In this case, the race has to be re-started. The horses and their jockeys have to run round the tracks thrice, for a total of about a thousand meters. The first horse to finish the race is declared the winner and is thus approved by 3 winners’ judges. There is a victory dinner that is usually held for the winning horse and contrada.
DARREN
One of the most cherished events that take place in Italy is the Palio. From far and wide, regionally and globally; people travel all the way to come and witness this exciting horse racing event so that by the time the whole thing is over, there are lots of talks and snapshots being exchanged all around the place. The Palio is a tourism magnet for the Italians and other Europeans who always look forward to this wonderful event. The Palio horse race is both a tourist attraction for the country and a money spinner for the tourism industry as well. Days before the actual event is held, people would have already been preparing in different ways. From those who are buying costumes for that special day to those who would be taking good advantage of the occasion to make quick returns on any goods or services they are offering. The Palio is heralded with lots of fun and fanfare with many activities to back it up. There are parades and processions all contributing to make the main event worth attending. You will come across people from diverse cultures from all around the world who all converge in Italy to be a part of the fun train.
The horse race event presents a good opportunity to make new friends as well as learn new things about the famous Italian celebration. The Palio horse race is an event whereby bare-back horse races are conducted every summer. The horse race is usually held in Piazza del Campo immediately after the procession is finished. The Palio is a fascinating sport for the players while for spectators; the horse race remains a lovely spectacle that must not be missed. Palio is a little cruel when judged by the way the sport is played. The real protagonists in the game are the horses which keep racing (and may still win too) even if in the course of the race, they mistakenly lose their jockeys or riders. For those who have never watched it, the real surprise in Palio is that the entire race only lasts for a little above 5 minutes as it goes round the edges of Piazza del Campo. In order to get acquainted with the major phases of the Palio horse race, four days are set aside for the celebration. It is equally important to know out of 17 contrade, only ten will run every time. Furthermore, their participation in the race is often decided by means of a draw.
This draw takes place not less than 20 days before each Palio race is scheduled to hold. The 7 contrade that did not run in the race of that same day, the year before, are eligible to run; the other 3 contrade are drawn from the initial 10 that had participated. The draft is the procedure by which horses are allocated to the 10 contrade who participate in the Palio horse race. The third day, in the morning before the race, the racing horses are presented one after the other by their owners, the presentation is done in the courtyard of the Municipality Town Hall, also known as the Entrone. Here, they are thoroughly examined by veterinarians who have been delegated by the municipality. Theirs is to evaluate the physical conditions and morphology of the racing horses. These horses are first put into different groups for trial purposes. They are then tested for only 3 laps around the Piazza del Campo so that they can be evaluated for their adaptability to the racing tracks. After the trial runs, the captains come together before the Mayor in order to decide which horses adapt the most.
Next, the draw is conducted on an open platform outside the Entrone or Municipality Town Hall. Afterwards, one horse is assigned a contrada. There are usually six trials which all take place at 9:00 am every morning and evening around 7:00 pm. After the Parade is over, there is a big burst of canon fire that is announced to signify the jockeys’ departure from the Entrone. Every jockey is handed a horse whip which he uses to incite his horse to further ignite a forward response. The jockey uses these strategies to block other opponents during the course of the race. Before the actual race begins, the starter opens the race with the lowering of the rope. The start is considered invalid if the cracker goes off and stops the horses. In this case, the race has to be re-started. The horses and their jockeys have to run round the tracks thrice, for a total of about a thousand meters. The first horse to finish the race is declared the winner and is thus approved by 3 winners’ judges. There is a victory dinner that is usually held for the winning horse and contrada.
DARREN
Mar
25
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
merlinbenner1 asked:
Horse clinic to train you to handle draft horses. It includes several types of equipment and various situations.
BENTON
Feb
25
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Ben Kelly asked:
The Rocky Mountains provide an endless array of winter activities in Breckenridge, Colorado. While the town is most famous for its world-class Breckenridge Ski Resort, visitors will find that non-ski activities abound as well. With 300-plus inches of snow falling on the surrounding mountain peaks each winter, activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, nordic skiing, ice skating, fly fishing, sledding and sleigh rides will keep your party active, while just scratching the surface of all that Breckenridge has to offer. Those looking for a bit “warmer” activities will find phenomenal day spas, shopping and cultural centers.
Breckenridge is a snowmobiler’s paradise with an almost unfathomable amount of terrain to explore. Local outfitters provide both guided and unguided snowmobile tours and rental, allowing guests to choose their level of adventure. Breckenridge Snowmobiling provides motorized access to the backcountry glades and bowls that abound in the area, with opportunities for postcard-like photos at nearly every turn of the trail. Adventurous riders may opt for “high adventure” tours where guides will show you how the locals ride, accessing Breckenridge’s deepest powder.
Those seeking a bit more seclusion and quiet can appreciate the wilderness via a guided dog sled tour. Dog sledding tours through the middle fork of the Swan River Valley allow you to explore some of Breckenridge’s deepest forests as well as historic mining camps and ghost towns that once populated the area. Dog teams of Siberian huskies are eager to show you these places as they swiftly plod through the pines and aspens over rolling backcountry terrain.
The Breckenridge area is home to amazing nordic skiing opportunities, a favorite local activity. Take in one of three local nordic centers, or break your own trail on an excursion into the backcountry. The Army’s 10th mountain division maintains several backcountry huts throughout the area that can be rented by the night or the week, providing a base of operations for your skiing excursion of choice.
Take in one of Breckenridge’s three local ice rinks for a morning or afternoon of skating with your family in a winter wonderland. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers 2 NHL sized ice surfaces and hosts open skating daily. Maggie Pond, located in the Peak 9 base area, offers outdoor skating opportunities with phenomenal views of the Ten Mile Range and Bald Mountain. Skate rentals are available at both locations for skaters who haven’t brought their own equipment along.
Winter doesn’t mean the end of fly fishing season in the Breckenridge high country. The area is home to several gold medal rivers, streams and lakes where highly skilled guides can hook you up with trophy sized fish. Those brave enough to endure the chilly winter temperatures will find uncrowded fishing grounds, surrounded by amphitheaters of rugged snowcapped peaks. Massive, hungry trout are waiting to take your fly on almost every cast, with expert guides placing you in prime position to catch them.
Families looking for adventurous sledding options will find that the Breckenridge area offers several. While the Breckenridge Ski Resort does not offer and on-mountain tubing hill, its nearby sister resort does. Tubing at Keystone resort takes place in both the day and night time hours, meaning a tubing adventure doesn’t have to cut into your ski day. The town of Breckenridge is home to Carter Park, a walk-up slide-down sledding hill with a generous slope and a long out run. Bring your own sled or pick one up at a local supermarket. This public park provides sledding free of charge while Keystone Resort charges for its hill.
Finally, dinner sleigh rides provide an evening event for the entire family, with hand build Santa-style sleighs and powerful Belgian draft horses. Sleigh rides take place on either Breckenridge’s Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, or through the wilderness of the Swan River Valley, with a star filled sky overhead lighting the way. Hearty meals are served in lodges warmed by roaring fires and charming local mountain hospitality.
Whether you’re an expert skier or a novice who’s just learning to link turns, be sure you take in more than just the ski area when visiting Breckenridge. The area’s winter activities are unsurpassed, with multiple opportunities to enjoy Colorado’s famous champagne powder. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family a corporate group or by yourself, be sure to check out the activities offered near your Breckenridge lodging property of choice.
EUSEBIO
The Rocky Mountains provide an endless array of winter activities in Breckenridge, Colorado. While the town is most famous for its world-class Breckenridge Ski Resort, visitors will find that non-ski activities abound as well. With 300-plus inches of snow falling on the surrounding mountain peaks each winter, activities such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, nordic skiing, ice skating, fly fishing, sledding and sleigh rides will keep your party active, while just scratching the surface of all that Breckenridge has to offer. Those looking for a bit “warmer” activities will find phenomenal day spas, shopping and cultural centers.
Breckenridge is a snowmobiler’s paradise with an almost unfathomable amount of terrain to explore. Local outfitters provide both guided and unguided snowmobile tours and rental, allowing guests to choose their level of adventure. Breckenridge Snowmobiling provides motorized access to the backcountry glades and bowls that abound in the area, with opportunities for postcard-like photos at nearly every turn of the trail. Adventurous riders may opt for “high adventure” tours where guides will show you how the locals ride, accessing Breckenridge’s deepest powder.
Those seeking a bit more seclusion and quiet can appreciate the wilderness via a guided dog sled tour. Dog sledding tours through the middle fork of the Swan River Valley allow you to explore some of Breckenridge’s deepest forests as well as historic mining camps and ghost towns that once populated the area. Dog teams of Siberian huskies are eager to show you these places as they swiftly plod through the pines and aspens over rolling backcountry terrain.
The Breckenridge area is home to amazing nordic skiing opportunities, a favorite local activity. Take in one of three local nordic centers, or break your own trail on an excursion into the backcountry. The Army’s 10th mountain division maintains several backcountry huts throughout the area that can be rented by the night or the week, providing a base of operations for your skiing excursion of choice.
Take in one of Breckenridge’s three local ice rinks for a morning or afternoon of skating with your family in a winter wonderland. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers 2 NHL sized ice surfaces and hosts open skating daily. Maggie Pond, located in the Peak 9 base area, offers outdoor skating opportunities with phenomenal views of the Ten Mile Range and Bald Mountain. Skate rentals are available at both locations for skaters who haven’t brought their own equipment along.
Winter doesn’t mean the end of fly fishing season in the Breckenridge high country. The area is home to several gold medal rivers, streams and lakes where highly skilled guides can hook you up with trophy sized fish. Those brave enough to endure the chilly winter temperatures will find uncrowded fishing grounds, surrounded by amphitheaters of rugged snowcapped peaks. Massive, hungry trout are waiting to take your fly on almost every cast, with expert guides placing you in prime position to catch them.
Families looking for adventurous sledding options will find that the Breckenridge area offers several. While the Breckenridge Ski Resort does not offer and on-mountain tubing hill, its nearby sister resort does. Tubing at Keystone resort takes place in both the day and night time hours, meaning a tubing adventure doesn’t have to cut into your ski day. The town of Breckenridge is home to Carter Park, a walk-up slide-down sledding hill with a generous slope and a long out run. Bring your own sled or pick one up at a local supermarket. This public park provides sledding free of charge while Keystone Resort charges for its hill.
Finally, dinner sleigh rides provide an evening event for the entire family, with hand build Santa-style sleighs and powerful Belgian draft horses. Sleigh rides take place on either Breckenridge’s Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, or through the wilderness of the Swan River Valley, with a star filled sky overhead lighting the way. Hearty meals are served in lodges warmed by roaring fires and charming local mountain hospitality.
Whether you’re an expert skier or a novice who’s just learning to link turns, be sure you take in more than just the ski area when visiting Breckenridge. The area’s winter activities are unsurpassed, with multiple opportunities to enjoy Colorado’s famous champagne powder. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family a corporate group or by yourself, be sure to check out the activities offered near your Breckenridge lodging property of choice.
EUSEBIO
Dec
14
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Jen W. asked:
When considering which of the top-notch ski resorts you will head to this winter for a relaxing ski and snowboarding adventure, look into all that Breckenridge, Colorado has to offer. The Breckenridge Ski Resort has a diverse selection of runs to accommodate every skill level and the soft powder is ripe for a smooth and exciting ride down the side of a mountain. With numerous other activities available to vacationer’s in this area, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and sleigh rides, you simply cannot go wrong with a Breckenridge vacation in the Rocky Mountains.
The Breckenridge Ski Resort is the perfect place to take your family for some real mountain skiing since it offers runs for skill levels ranging from easiest to expert. The easy trails provide an excellent learning environment and constitute 14 percent of all runs while the expert trails sit at steep pitches and provide a variety of choices, including some with trees, rocks to jump, hidden kickers, and big fat bumps. For the majority of us who lie between these two extremes, half of the runs are tailored to our needs and offer great places to polish new skills and master our form on challenging and thrilling terrain.
For those who want to show off their diverse skill set beyond the slopes, there are 25 acres of terrain parks where you can let loose and enjoy a real winter mountain ski or snowboard adventure. There are five parks, freeway, country boy, gold king, trygves, and eldorado, waiting with a diverse collection of hits and rails and four of them offer a halfpipe where you can show some real air while avoiding a dreaded fall. There is something for every skier and rider so check out the terrain park and see how your abilities really stack up.
If you need to refuel during your day on the slopes, don’t worry since there is a wide selection of dining options on two of the peaks and in town. You can grab a quick bite to eat in one food courts on Peak 8 or enjoy juicy burgers, fresh salads, and warm brews on Peak 9. In town, the options are much more expansive and since it is so close, you can take a longer break if your stomach requires a much more hearty meal. There are a variety of restaurant options but one to check out at the end of the day is the Breckenridge Brewery and Pub on Main Street with its handcrafted ales and daily pub specials.
For a complete night of entertainment, reserve your place on a sleigh ride tour, complete with jingle bells, with one of the numerous companies in the area. Explore the picturesque Breckenridge countryside behind draft horses as you sit back and enjoy the starlit Colorado sky and the stunning outline of the towering mountains. And afterwards, you can enjoy a hearty meal and take in one of the dinner shows that highlight the history of Breckenridge with a mix of comedy and information.
If you want a little more variety throughout your vacation, then head to the Gold Run Nordic Center for some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. With over 20 kilometers of classic and skating trails in addition to backcountry and snowshoeing trails, this place is truly a paradise for the outdoor adventurer. Enjoy rolling hills, impeccable trails, and magnificent mountain views as you make your way over this stunning terrain with the finest equipment and a few tips from the experienced instructors.
Breckenridge is a winter wonderland of outdoor activities that will certainly keep you on your toes for the duration of your trip. If you think it is the perfect place for your next ski getaway, consider Breckenridge condo rentals for your accommodations needs. You can enjoy all the comforts of home while giving yourself a luxurious mountain retreat that you look forward to escaping to at the end of the day. Don’t just settle for the typical, plain room, take advantage of plenty of space, a cozy fireplace, and a plush sofa that is inviting you to relax after a long day on the slopes with a Breckenridge vacation rental.
CORNELIUS
When considering which of the top-notch ski resorts you will head to this winter for a relaxing ski and snowboarding adventure, look into all that Breckenridge, Colorado has to offer. The Breckenridge Ski Resort has a diverse selection of runs to accommodate every skill level and the soft powder is ripe for a smooth and exciting ride down the side of a mountain. With numerous other activities available to vacationer’s in this area, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and sleigh rides, you simply cannot go wrong with a Breckenridge vacation in the Rocky Mountains.
The Breckenridge Ski Resort is the perfect place to take your family for some real mountain skiing since it offers runs for skill levels ranging from easiest to expert. The easy trails provide an excellent learning environment and constitute 14 percent of all runs while the expert trails sit at steep pitches and provide a variety of choices, including some with trees, rocks to jump, hidden kickers, and big fat bumps. For the majority of us who lie between these two extremes, half of the runs are tailored to our needs and offer great places to polish new skills and master our form on challenging and thrilling terrain.
For those who want to show off their diverse skill set beyond the slopes, there are 25 acres of terrain parks where you can let loose and enjoy a real winter mountain ski or snowboard adventure. There are five parks, freeway, country boy, gold king, trygves, and eldorado, waiting with a diverse collection of hits and rails and four of them offer a halfpipe where you can show some real air while avoiding a dreaded fall. There is something for every skier and rider so check out the terrain park and see how your abilities really stack up.
If you need to refuel during your day on the slopes, don’t worry since there is a wide selection of dining options on two of the peaks and in town. You can grab a quick bite to eat in one food courts on Peak 8 or enjoy juicy burgers, fresh salads, and warm brews on Peak 9. In town, the options are much more expansive and since it is so close, you can take a longer break if your stomach requires a much more hearty meal. There are a variety of restaurant options but one to check out at the end of the day is the Breckenridge Brewery and Pub on Main Street with its handcrafted ales and daily pub specials.
For a complete night of entertainment, reserve your place on a sleigh ride tour, complete with jingle bells, with one of the numerous companies in the area. Explore the picturesque Breckenridge countryside behind draft horses as you sit back and enjoy the starlit Colorado sky and the stunning outline of the towering mountains. And afterwards, you can enjoy a hearty meal and take in one of the dinner shows that highlight the history of Breckenridge with a mix of comedy and information.
If you want a little more variety throughout your vacation, then head to the Gold Run Nordic Center for some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. With over 20 kilometers of classic and skating trails in addition to backcountry and snowshoeing trails, this place is truly a paradise for the outdoor adventurer. Enjoy rolling hills, impeccable trails, and magnificent mountain views as you make your way over this stunning terrain with the finest equipment and a few tips from the experienced instructors.
Breckenridge is a winter wonderland of outdoor activities that will certainly keep you on your toes for the duration of your trip. If you think it is the perfect place for your next ski getaway, consider Breckenridge condo rentals for your accommodations needs. You can enjoy all the comforts of home while giving yourself a luxurious mountain retreat that you look forward to escaping to at the end of the day. Don’t just settle for the typical, plain room, take advantage of plenty of space, a cozy fireplace, and a plush sofa that is inviting you to relax after a long day on the slopes with a Breckenridge vacation rental.
CORNELIUS
Oct
10
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Jen W. asked:
When searching for the ideal Rocky Mountain retreat this winter, make your way to the Summit County gateway of Silverthorne, Colorado. Silverthorne is within striking distance of the four world class ski resorts this area boasts while also enticing with the charm of a quant and stunning mountain town. For an all-round exciting and relaxing trip when you need to escape the doldrums of everyday life, head to Silverthorne for a vacation beyond the expected.
Summit County is known for some of the most amazing ski resorts in the country, causing winter enthusiasts to flock to this area in droves when the first flakes begin to fall. Only twenty minutes away from the ski mountains of Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain and Keystone, Silverthorne is the perfect home base for those who need to entertain the interests of a multi-skill level family. With a diverse collection of trails and runs at your fingertips, you can sample all of the resorts to determine which mountain best suites the needs and abilities of your family.
If jettisoning from mountain to mountain is not your idea of a fulfilling winter vacation, the town of Silverthorne has plenty to offer in the way of indoor and outdoor activities. For a memorable outdoor adventure without any rough and tumble, hop aboard a sleigh ride for a journey through the forest behind Belgian Draft Horses. You can cozy up under a warm blanket as the bells jingle and the horse hooves clatter on the smooth snow all while soaking in the stunning sight of the starlit mountains.
The more adventurous outdoor lovers looking for a bit of high-powered excitement will certainly want to take advantage of backcountry snowmobiling through the Arapahoe National Forest. Make your way through alpine meadows and over 100 miles of wooded trails, with three miles of open space to treat as your personal playground, as you cruise this peaceful and enchanting winter wonderland. Your exhilarating Silverthorne snowmobiling adventure is only made that much more memorable by the sight of seven different, yet equally spectacular, mountain ranges so get out there and see the picturesque Colorado we have all imagined.
No Silverthorne vacation is complete until you have filled your lungs with the fresh mountain air while truly appreciating the natural beauty that surrounds you. Since skiing and snowmobiling require concentration, thus making it difficult to enjoy Summit County’s magnificence, head to the Silverthorne Nordic Center for a day of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Traverse breathtaking terrain that calls out for exploration as you experience the unscathed beauty of one of the country’s most stunning regions.
When you want to spend a day enjoying the delights of Silverthorne, shopping is the most popular way to fill a morning and afternoon. The Silverthorne Factory Stores offer exceptional variety, value, and quality with 70 well-known brands and the nearby restaurants allow you to make a day of your shopping extravaganza. Don’t forget to check out the other shops that line the town’s streets to pick up a few warm winter items or to simply find a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
While you expect to find amazing beauty around every corner during a Colorado winter vacation, Silverthorne goes beyond the everyday as a centrally-located retreat that can satisfy the cravings of every winter vacationer. Whether this is your first time to the area or a yearly ritual, you can capture everything you love about this Colorado town by staying in a vacation rental. Silverthorne rentals allow some of the most breathtaking views of the mountains while making it easy to enjoy the indoor and outdoor activities you plan to participate in during your trip. Don’t settle for anything less than spectacular this winter by choosing a Silverthorne vacation rental that meets all your needs and exceeds all your expectations.
ANTHONY
When searching for the ideal Rocky Mountain retreat this winter, make your way to the Summit County gateway of Silverthorne, Colorado. Silverthorne is within striking distance of the four world class ski resorts this area boasts while also enticing with the charm of a quant and stunning mountain town. For an all-round exciting and relaxing trip when you need to escape the doldrums of everyday life, head to Silverthorne for a vacation beyond the expected.
Summit County is known for some of the most amazing ski resorts in the country, causing winter enthusiasts to flock to this area in droves when the first flakes begin to fall. Only twenty minutes away from the ski mountains of Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain and Keystone, Silverthorne is the perfect home base for those who need to entertain the interests of a multi-skill level family. With a diverse collection of trails and runs at your fingertips, you can sample all of the resorts to determine which mountain best suites the needs and abilities of your family.
If jettisoning from mountain to mountain is not your idea of a fulfilling winter vacation, the town of Silverthorne has plenty to offer in the way of indoor and outdoor activities. For a memorable outdoor adventure without any rough and tumble, hop aboard a sleigh ride for a journey through the forest behind Belgian Draft Horses. You can cozy up under a warm blanket as the bells jingle and the horse hooves clatter on the smooth snow all while soaking in the stunning sight of the starlit mountains.
The more adventurous outdoor lovers looking for a bit of high-powered excitement will certainly want to take advantage of backcountry snowmobiling through the Arapahoe National Forest. Make your way through alpine meadows and over 100 miles of wooded trails, with three miles of open space to treat as your personal playground, as you cruise this peaceful and enchanting winter wonderland. Your exhilarating Silverthorne snowmobiling adventure is only made that much more memorable by the sight of seven different, yet equally spectacular, mountain ranges so get out there and see the picturesque Colorado we have all imagined.
No Silverthorne vacation is complete until you have filled your lungs with the fresh mountain air while truly appreciating the natural beauty that surrounds you. Since skiing and snowmobiling require concentration, thus making it difficult to enjoy Summit County’s magnificence, head to the Silverthorne Nordic Center for a day of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Traverse breathtaking terrain that calls out for exploration as you experience the unscathed beauty of one of the country’s most stunning regions.
When you want to spend a day enjoying the delights of Silverthorne, shopping is the most popular way to fill a morning and afternoon. The Silverthorne Factory Stores offer exceptional variety, value, and quality with 70 well-known brands and the nearby restaurants allow you to make a day of your shopping extravaganza. Don’t forget to check out the other shops that line the town’s streets to pick up a few warm winter items or to simply find a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
While you expect to find amazing beauty around every corner during a Colorado winter vacation, Silverthorne goes beyond the everyday as a centrally-located retreat that can satisfy the cravings of every winter vacationer. Whether this is your first time to the area or a yearly ritual, you can capture everything you love about this Colorado town by staying in a vacation rental. Silverthorne rentals allow some of the most breathtaking views of the mountains while making it easy to enjoy the indoor and outdoor activities you plan to participate in during your trip. Don’t settle for anything less than spectacular this winter by choosing a Silverthorne vacation rental that meets all your needs and exceeds all your expectations.
ANTHONY
Feb
02
Filed Under (Travel) by drafthorse
Ben Kelly asked:
Though it is most famous for its world-class ski resort, the town of Breckenridge, Colorado also offers a multitude of non-ski winter activities. With over 300 inches of light, fluffy snow falling on the surrounding mountain peaks each winter, Breckenridge also draws visitors seeking a mountain paradise where non-ski winter activities abound. Visitors can wake up to new adventures daily with options for snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, dog sledding, winter fly fishing, sleigh rides, tubing, sledding and ice skating.
The changing of the seasons doesn’t bring an end to fly fishing in Breckenridge’s high country. The area is home to several gold medal rivers, streams and lakes where highly skilled guides can hook you up with trophy sized fish. Visitors who are willing to endure the chilly winter temperatures will find uncrowded riverbanks, surrounded by an amphitheater of snowcapped mountain peaks. Massive trout are waiting to hit your fly on virtually every cast, and with an expert guide at your side, you’ll be in a prime position to catch them.
The Breckenridge area has become a snowmobiling Mecca and provides an almost unfathomable amount of terrain to explore. Local outfitters provide both guided and unguided tours and rentals, which allows guests to choose their level of adventure. Snowmobiling provides motorized access to the backcountry glades and bowls that abound in the area, with opportunities for postcard-like photos at nearly every turn of the trail. “High Adventure” tours are available for more adventurous riders who would like to rice Breckenridge’s deepest backcountry powder at full-throttle speeds.
Those seeking to experience the local backcountry with a non-motorized form of transportation will appreciate the wilderness via a guided dog sled tour. Local dog sledding tours run through the middle fork of the Swan River Valley, enabling visitors to experience some of Breckenridge’s deepest forests as well as the historic mining camps and ghost towns that once populated the area.
The Rocky Mountains are also home to phenomenal cross country skiing - a favorite pastime amongst Breckenridge locals. Stop by one of the three local Nordic Centers located in town, or break your own trail on an excursion into the area’s easily accessible backcountry. The United States Army’s 10th mountain division maintains several backcountry huts throughout the area that can be rented for a night or the week, providing a warm base of operations for backcountry skiing excursions
Families who are looking for adventurous sledding options will find several options within a short drive of Breckenridge. Although the Breckenridge Ski Resort does not offer a tubing hill on its slopes, its nearby sister resort, Keystone, does. Tubing is available at Keystone during the day and into the evening hours. The town of Breckenridge is home to Carter Park, a walk-up slide-down sledding hill with a generous slope and a long out run. Bring your own sled or pick one up at a local supermarket. Carter Park provides sledding opportunities free of charge while visitors will have to pay for access to the Keystone Resort’s tubing runs.
Breckenridge’s three local ice rinks can provide for a morning or afternoon of skating with your family. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers 2 NHL sized ice surfaces and hosts open skating hours daily. The Maggie Pond, located within the resort’s Peak 9 base area, offers outdoor skating opportunities with phenomenal views of the Ten Mile Range and Bald Mountain. Skate rentals are available at both locations.
Finally, local dinner and scenic sleigh rides provide an evening of entertainment for the entire family. Rides take place on red Santa-style sleighs and are pulled by massive Belgian draft horses. Sleigh rides are operated on Breckenridge’s Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and through the wilderness of the Swan River Valley. With a star-filled sky lighting the way, guests are treated to fantastic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Filling meals and hot cocoa are served in rustic lodges heated by giant hearths and warm mountain hospitality.
Whether you’re an expert skier or a beginner who’s learning to link your first turns on the mountain, be sure you sample some of Breckenridge’s non-ski activities when visiting the area this winter. Opportunities for winter recreation in Breckenridge are unsurpassed, with several opportunities to enjoy the town’s spectacular snow that don’t involve skis, snowboards or chairlifts.
CALVIN
Though it is most famous for its world-class ski resort, the town of Breckenridge, Colorado also offers a multitude of non-ski winter activities. With over 300 inches of light, fluffy snow falling on the surrounding mountain peaks each winter, Breckenridge also draws visitors seeking a mountain paradise where non-ski winter activities abound. Visitors can wake up to new adventures daily with options for snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, dog sledding, winter fly fishing, sleigh rides, tubing, sledding and ice skating.
The changing of the seasons doesn’t bring an end to fly fishing in Breckenridge’s high country. The area is home to several gold medal rivers, streams and lakes where highly skilled guides can hook you up with trophy sized fish. Visitors who are willing to endure the chilly winter temperatures will find uncrowded riverbanks, surrounded by an amphitheater of snowcapped mountain peaks. Massive trout are waiting to hit your fly on virtually every cast, and with an expert guide at your side, you’ll be in a prime position to catch them.
The Breckenridge area has become a snowmobiling Mecca and provides an almost unfathomable amount of terrain to explore. Local outfitters provide both guided and unguided tours and rentals, which allows guests to choose their level of adventure. Snowmobiling provides motorized access to the backcountry glades and bowls that abound in the area, with opportunities for postcard-like photos at nearly every turn of the trail. “High Adventure” tours are available for more adventurous riders who would like to rice Breckenridge’s deepest backcountry powder at full-throttle speeds.
Those seeking to experience the local backcountry with a non-motorized form of transportation will appreciate the wilderness via a guided dog sled tour. Local dog sledding tours run through the middle fork of the Swan River Valley, enabling visitors to experience some of Breckenridge’s deepest forests as well as the historic mining camps and ghost towns that once populated the area.
The Rocky Mountains are also home to phenomenal cross country skiing - a favorite pastime amongst Breckenridge locals. Stop by one of the three local Nordic Centers located in town, or break your own trail on an excursion into the area’s easily accessible backcountry. The United States Army’s 10th mountain division maintains several backcountry huts throughout the area that can be rented for a night or the week, providing a warm base of operations for backcountry skiing excursions
Families who are looking for adventurous sledding options will find several options within a short drive of Breckenridge. Although the Breckenridge Ski Resort does not offer a tubing hill on its slopes, its nearby sister resort, Keystone, does. Tubing is available at Keystone during the day and into the evening hours. The town of Breckenridge is home to Carter Park, a walk-up slide-down sledding hill with a generous slope and a long out run. Bring your own sled or pick one up at a local supermarket. Carter Park provides sledding opportunities free of charge while visitors will have to pay for access to the Keystone Resort’s tubing runs.
Breckenridge’s three local ice rinks can provide for a morning or afternoon of skating with your family. The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers 2 NHL sized ice surfaces and hosts open skating hours daily. The Maggie Pond, located within the resort’s Peak 9 base area, offers outdoor skating opportunities with phenomenal views of the Ten Mile Range and Bald Mountain. Skate rentals are available at both locations.
Finally, local dinner and scenic sleigh rides provide an evening of entertainment for the entire family. Rides take place on red Santa-style sleighs and are pulled by massive Belgian draft horses. Sleigh rides are operated on Breckenridge’s Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and through the wilderness of the Swan River Valley. With a star-filled sky lighting the way, guests are treated to fantastic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Filling meals and hot cocoa are served in rustic lodges heated by giant hearths and warm mountain hospitality.
Whether you’re an expert skier or a beginner who’s learning to link your first turns on the mountain, be sure you sample some of Breckenridge’s non-ski activities when visiting the area this winter. Opportunities for winter recreation in Breckenridge are unsurpassed, with several opportunities to enjoy the town’s spectacular snow that don’t involve skis, snowboards or chairlifts.
CALVIN
