Western Winter Adventures from Arizona to Idaho

(EMAILWIRE.COM, August 05, 2010 ) Start: Northern Arizona-Just outside of Flagstaff, Mormon Lake Lodge is the perfect place to begin a winter exploration of the West. The Lodge holds a special permit with the Coconino National Forest which allows guests use of their groomed trail system. Speed-demons can check out the pinyon and juniper woodlands during guided snowmobile tours. For cross-country skiers and snowshoers the trails surrounding picturesque Mormon Lake provide plenty hours of investigation. Perhaps visitors will catch a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring over head or elk roaming nearby. Ski equipment rentals and tours are available through the lodge. In the national forest at the Mormon Lake Ski Touring Center, staff can offer information about instruction and moonlight tours. After a day of playing in the snow guests can head back to the lodge for a true western-style dinner at the Steakhouse or Saloon.
Distance: 313 miles

First Stop: Brian Head, Utah- Skiers who are looking forward to UtahÂ’s famous blue bird powder days this ski season but are dreading the crowds and high costs will find Brian Head Ski Resort to be an ideal destination for their next ski vacation. Located in scenic southern Utah, Brian Head Resort boasts the same great snow and conditions as UtahÂ’s most well known resorts, but with a fraction of the crowds and costs. After a day of playing in the snow relax at the Red Leaf Spa then fall into bed at The Grand Lodge. When visiting in January, aim to catch the Brian Head town bonfire and sÂ’mores event.
Distance: 282 miles

Second Stop: Moab, Utah- Amateur and experienced photographers alike can capture breathtaking shots at Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The areaÂ’s natural wonders have attracted filmmakers since the 1940s. The film and heritage museum at Red Cliffs Lodge offers stills from locally shot films as well as 100 years of cowboy history. Nordic skiers ready for serenity join Tag-a-long Expeditions on the ungroomed trails of the La Sal Mountains. For skiers in moderate to excellent physical condition these trips run between 3 huts in this beautiful, and still relatively unknown, area. If the huts and Nordic skiing arenÂ’t the right fit stay in country chic splendor at Sunflower Hill Luxury Inn or take advantage of discounted winter rates at the Moab Retreat House.
Distance: 337 miles

Detour: Vista Verde Ranch- Located in Steamboat Springs the ranch provides all of the winter sports and fun expected when thinking of Colorado. In addition to skiing and snowshoeing guests can experience horseback riding in the snow. Not to worry the thick skin and fur on the animals ensure everyone is comfortable on these outings. Local outfitters can arrange many other adventures from ice climbing to dog sledding, maybe even a hot air balloon ride. Enhance your culinary skills at the ranch during cooking classes and wine tastings with Chef Robert. In the evenings snuggle up next to a roaring fire in the Great Room, perhaps with a cocktail at happy hour. Before bed take a peek at the exquisite views from your lodge room balcony or relax beneath the stars in your cabinÂ’s hot tub. A minimum 3 night stay is required during winter but with so many activities as part of the all-inclusive packages that probably wonÂ’t be long enough.
Distance: 320 miles

Third Stop: Sweetwater County Wyoming- Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers will find interesting subjects in this desert landscape. Winter is a great time of year to watch for wild horses, antelope, deer, elk and cottontail rabbits. DonÂ’t forget a telephoto lens to prevent stressing the herds. Fishermen can try ice fishing for large lake and rainbow trout in Flaming Gorge or open water trout fishing on the Green River. Adventure minded travelers can take in peace and tranquility camping or for more of the comforts of home check out hotels in Green River or Rock Springs. These towns can also provide fishing and hunting permits for the winter sportsman. Lower elevations receive little snow in winter, though snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing can be possible above 7000 ft.
Distance: 395 miles

Short Stop: Glenns Ferry, Idaho- Home to the historic Oregon TrailÂ’s Three Island Crossing. Grab a buffalo steak at the Oregon Trail CafÃ©.
Distance: 72 miles

End: Southwest Idaho- For a fantastic finale to your winter tour of the west, head to Boise and Southwest Idaho. Here you can play in the snow, take in some art and culture, and sip sensational wines. Snow bunnies rejoice- Bogus Basin offers everything from night runs and an 800 foot tubing hill to 2600 acres of skiable terrain for skiers and boarders. For a perfect ending Bogus Creek Outfitters has sleigh rides to a cozy cabin for dinner and live music. Art enthusiasts check out the Boise Art Museum or catch the sounds of BoiseÂ’s Baroque Orchestra. There are tons of local music venues and galleries to explore too. Wine lovers beware- Southwest Idaho has 1400 acres of vineyards and 30 wineries so there are plenty of tasting rooms to keep you smiling and sipping. At the end of the day catch some zzs at the Boise Guest House where youÂ’ll feel at home in the heart of downtown Boise. Hotel 43 is a swankier option and has a wide variety of packages to make planning your adventures easier.

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Sweetwater County Travel and Tourism Boa
Amy Williams
970-568-7423
Amy@adventuremedianews.com