The Fremont Explorer - Colorado - Spring 2015

World Class Rock Climbing | Fly Fishing Gold Medal Waters | New Trails in the Hogbacks

Spring / Summer 2015Issue No. 01

OakCreek

Campground

1spring /summer 2015 | the fremont explorer

Calendar of Events Spring/Summer 2015

Clean Up / Green Up April 25 ccrec.org

Spring Fling @ The Winery April 25 Contact #719.276.5191

Cañon City Blossom Festival April 30–May 4 ccblossomfestival.com

Canon City Rodeo May 1-2 canoncityrodeoassn.com

Run Blossom 1/2 marathon, 5K, 5mi May 2 runblossom.org

Royal Gorge Bridge Grand Re-Opening May 8-10 rgbcc.com

Kid’s Fishing Derby May 9 ccrec.org

Brew La La May 9 fremontarts.org/brewlala.html

Flashback on Main Street May 15 fremontcommunityfoundation.org

Florence Merchants Car Show May 17 Contact #520.403.5204

Create Cañon City Balloon Classic May 23–25 CreateCanonCity.org

Basket Case Bicycle Run

Balloon Classic 5K Run

Holy Smoke Bar-B-Que May 29-30 fremontcommunityfoundation.org

5K Color Fun Run June 6 Contact #719.269.0178

Hardscrabble Mountain Trail Run June 7 hardscrabblerun.com

Battle of the Bighorn June 14 battleofthebighorn.org

Ride the Rockies June 19 ridetherockies.com

Bird Millman’s Summer Soiree June 20 facebook.com/events/421114911388035/

Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival June 26–27 royalgorgewhitewaterfestival.com

Whitewater Adventure Race

Flycasting Competition

Youth Adventure Race

Duckie Dash

Pixie Bike Race

Yoga in the Park

Cruiser Bike Ride

High Mountain Hay Fever Bluegrass Festival July 9–12 highmountainhayfever.org

Danapalooza August (TBD) danapalooza.com

Tour de Coal Towns Bicycle Tour September 5 Contact #520.403.5204

Memorial Bike Run September 6 fremontcommunityfoundation.org

Bikes & Brews September 19 bikesandbrews.org

Winemakers Dinner September 25 abbeywinery.com/harvest-fest

Harvest Fest September 26-27 abbeywinery.com/harvest-fest

2 the fremont explorer | spring /summer 2015

Pedestrian bridge leading to the Riverwalk from south side of Raynolds. photo by kpg

“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea,

drink the wild air.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson


EDITOR'S NOTESpringtime is here and with it comes blooming flowers, warm temperatures, flowing water on the Arkansas River, and the tendency to get outdoors any chance that I can. Fremont County is an amazing area in Colorado and I am always surprised at the new hidden places I discover each and every year so close to home. Camping and hiking are two of my most favorite outdoor activities and there are multitudes of areas to enjoy them (below is Newlin Creek, my all time favorite hiking trail). This year I plan on doing a little more dispersed camping as my youngest child is old enough to truly appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. I am blessed to live in an area where there are an abundance of outdoor activities to partake in and adventures to be had. The writers in this inaugural issue give testimony to this.

Whether you enjoy a day fly fishing the Gold Medal waters of the Arkansas River, kayaking/rafting the Bighorn Sheep Canyon or Royal Gorge stretch of the river, rock climbing out at Shelf Climbing Area or Oak Creek Canyon, traversing our OHV trails, or exploring our many biking and hiking trails, there truly is something for everyone in this beautiful area I call home. I encourage all locals and tourists to get out and explore all that this wonderful area has to offer!

I recommend visiting the local BLM Royal Gorge Field Office at 3028 East Main Street in Cañon City, Colorado or online at www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/rgfo/recreation0.html for maps and up to date information on Fremont County recreation areas.

Kristy GothamPublisher & Creative Director

NewlinCreek

photos by kpg


In This Issue

The Right Stuff 08

From a Horse’s Eye View 21

Dingo’s Walkabout 16Welcome to the Hogbacks 11

Fly Fishing the Royal Gorge Region 56

Lessons Learned 36 Two Sites 44

Royal Gorge ATV Club 26 The Arkansas River 35

Q&A

pg 15 pg 19 pg 41 pg 63 pg 59 pg 31 pg 23 pg 51 pg 47

Adam HartmanAmber PfaffErica KoenigGrant EmmersonJohn KazanchyLuke MillerMegan Merry-NumsenMike “Millz” MillardSarah Grimes

Scholarship Winners

Sierra Heimel“Grotto” pg 48Caving Club – CCHS

Shea Claflin“Fine Fishing” pg 54Fly Fishing Club – CCHS

Yoga 60


GET IN [email protected]

The Fremont ExplorerPO Box 44Cañon City, CO 81215USA

PUBLISHER/CREATIVE DIRECTORKristy Gotham

SHARE YOUR [email protected]

SHOWCASE YOUR [email protected]

COPYRIGHTAll content copyright 2015 The Fremont Explorer. Contributions have been used with permission and are copyright original sources. No unauthorized reproduction without written consent.

THE FREMONT EXPLORER - ISSUE No. 01 - SPRING/SUMMER 2015

photo by kpg


PHOTOGRAPHERS

DEBI STEVENSDebi Stevens is the Supervisor and Founder of the Prison Trained K9 Companion Program (PTKCP). This cash funded program is a Colorado State licensed Animal Rescue, educational program for the offenders that participate while doing boarding-in training for funding. You can imagine such a demanding, high pressure job leaves Debi looking for totally unrelated recreational activities. She loves the outdoors and fulfills those needs through photography and endurance riding on her horse. You can take a look at her photography at www.keepitforeverphotography.com

JED WHITLEYJed Whitley takes more photos than he knows what to do with. A professional photographer based in Wilmington, North Carolina, he spends much of his time on the interstates of this great country, camera in tow, chasing storms and stories -- at least until his Bitcoin stash justifies an early retirement. For Jed, Colorado’s landscapes and people make it one of the most photographically fertile places on the planet, and he’s thankful every time he gets to document a new adventure in the Centennial State. See more of his work at www.jedwhitley.com or contact [email protected]

MARK CRAWFORDMark Crawford is a Professional White Water Rafting Guide in Cañon City, CO. When he cannot be found flowing with the melt-waters of the Arkansas, his photography and guiding skills lead him on the continuous journey around the Globe. With a background in Geography, Anthropology and water safety, he embraces and documents each location and those within it. He has Guided and shot for Expedition companies in North America, South America and the Caribbean. You can check out part of the journey at www.MarkCrawfordPhotography.com

SPENCER MAXFIELDSpencer is an Eccentric Renaissance Man; artist, painter, illustrator, poet, playwright, actor, writer, director, MC (lyrical assassin), photographer, & all around creative whirlwind. Spencer is also an accomplished Eagle Scout, mountaineer, chocolateer, rock climber, mountain biker, snowboarder, skier, & whitewater ninjedi junartic. Working out of B.A.T. Studios (Bohemian Artisan Tribe Studios) in downtown Cañon City, Colorado, Spencer is always hard at work & play. You can contact Spencer at [email protected]


SUSAN JO BAUMANNSusan Jo Baumann has been a professional freelance photographer since moving to Colorado several years ago. Her love of photography grew while she lived in Hawaii, taking photos of the unique flora and fauna, as well as many historical sites. Today, Susan rides ATVs here in Colorado, as well as Arizona, Utah, and last year to the Smoky Mountains in West Virginia. She has been to Grand Island, NE several times to photograph the Whooping Cranes and Sandhill Cranes, as well as Monte Vista to see the cranes on their annual migration. Her photographs have been on display in galleries in Nebraska, here in Colorado, and they have won several awards, including the Grand Prize of the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad Photographer’s Train Competition. One of her crane photographs was chosen for the posters and media for the Wings Over the Platte photography competition in Grand Island. Susan lives in Pueblo West and is a member of the Pueblo Art Guild and the Pueblo West Chamber of Commerce. Susan can be reached at this email address: [email protected]

TAYLOR EDRINGTONTaylor Edrington is the Owner and Operator of Royal Gorge Anglers Inc., located 2 miles west of Cañon City at Skyline Drive. Royal Gorge Anglers offers the only Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide Service on the Arkansas River, Fly Fishing Gear, Outdoor Clothing, and a large variety of Whitewater/ Boating Supplies. www.royalgorgeanglers.com

.......................................................................................................................

CONTRIBUTORS

• ADAM HARTMAN

• AMBER PFAFF

• BEN LARSON

• DEBI STEVENS

• ERICA KOENIG

• FLEUR KAISER

• MIKE “MILLZ” MILLARD

• MONICA MCGOWAN

• ROBIN BEALS

• SARAH GRIMES

• SHAWN FITZGERALD

• TAYLOR EDRINGTON

• GRANT EMMERSON

• JOHN KAZANCHY

• KRISTIN ECONOME

• LUKE MILLER

• MARIANNE BEEL

• MEGAN MERRY-NUMSEN


Making the way towards the Anticline Trail at Oil Well Flats (photo courtesy of Brian LeDoux)

Kristyn Econome riding atop the rim on the Island in the Sky Trail at Oil Well Flats (photo courtesy of Megan Merry)


It was like riding down and up a roller coaster. The Hogbacks. In 2008 it was practically the only decent-enough place to mountain bike in Cañon City. Although a small trail system, the Hogbacks' trails consistently brought fun. But the area had also become a controversial place in our town. Unfortunately, unmanaged dirt biking and the use of other off-road vehicles in the Hogbacks had created such widespread devastation in the area. The City was going to potentially close down the Hogbacks to all uses. It was this threat of closure that propelled the local mountain bikers to band together and form LAMBA – the Lower Arkansas Mountain Bicycling Association.

At the end of July, 2008, it happened. The breaking point. The place where I could literally mountain bike out my back door had closed - at least until November, when Cañon City residents would vote to continue the Hogbacks closure to all uses or to form our newest non-motorized open space park. While the motorized users were disappointed, a majority of voting residents had approved the new Hogbacks Open Space Park. And the era of responsible trail advocacy had begun – the era of LAMBA.

A small group with big dreams, LAMBA is persistently working to turn our trail dreams into reality. In order to continue our mission "to protect, enhance, and develop quality singletrack trails in the Cañon City area," it definitely helps to coordinate trails with other groups. The Bureau of Land Management, the City of Cañon City, Fremont County, and the Cañon City Recreation and Park District have all been enthusiastic to work together and with LAMBA to make trails happen across eastern Fremont County.

Cañon City is about to explode with high quality singletrack trails. While we've spent the last several years working with the BLM to develop sweet trails in Section 13 and the newly-popular Oil Well Flats, we've also coordinated with the City of Cañon City to build our beginner pump track, and assisted with the rehabilitation of the Hogbacks. The right stuff is finally coming together, and there's much more on the horizon to share with you.

Oil Well Flats already boasts nearly twelve new miles of non-motorized singletrack trails, but did you know that the BLM has slated another six miles to join this trail system? And while the Hogbacks Open Space now sports the two mile-long family-friendly Greenhorn Trail as well as a parallel flow trail, The Mile High Youth Corps from Colorado Springs will complete work on a ridge trail later this spring. While it's planned to be more of a technical trail for the advanced mountain biker, the ridge trail will offer spectacular views in all directions from its high vantage point. LAMBA is also excited about the finalization of a land easement this spring that will allow for a new trail connection from town up to the Eco Park (located where the Temple Canyon East designation is placed on the maps webpage).

And finally: The Royal Gorge Park. The park's namesake, the Royal Gorge, is one of the principal reasons people flock to the Cañon City area. It's a stunning geological wonder. Situated on approximately 5,000 mostly undeveloped acres, the Royal Gorge Park is currently slated to introduce several miles of trails in the very near future. The City went ahead and made the first dent in the trail-less acres last summer when it hired the Mile High Youth Corps to create two miles of trail from County Road 3A up to the City's free camping area in the park.

LAMBA is excited. Really excited. With so much positive energy and hard work, the Cañon City trail scene is rapidly expanding. Whether by bike or by foot, we welcome and encourage you to check out our local trails. And if working in the dirt is your thing, we welcome you, locals and vacationers alike, to join in on the BLM's fun trail work days every Second Sunday of the month, when trail volunteers join together to make our trail systems longer and even more awesome. The right stuff is all coming together and we'd love to have you experience it with us.

Want more information? Or maybe you're looking for trail maps and conditions? Check out our website to read up on all things LAMBA: http://www.crankpedalers.com/mountain.html. Or feel free to contact us via email if you need more information: [email protected]. Until then, ride on!

The Right Stuffby Kristyn Econome


Expect More. Get More.

Earning an associate degree at the Fremont Campus of PCC then transferring to a university can save you thousands of dollars.

With small class sizes, PCC offers students more personal interaction with faculty, which leads to greater academic success.

WWW.EnrollPCC .ORG51320 W. Hwy. 50 | 719.296.6100

This page top:View of PCC Fremont Campus from top of Skyline Drive / Hogbacks area.photo by kpg

This page bottom:A beautiful view and great singletrack on the Unconformity Trail at Oil Well Flats. photo courtesy of Brian LeDoux

Opposite page:Sunrise in the Hogbacks.photo courtesy of Brian LeDoux


Located just a few short blocks from downtown Cañon City, the Hogbacks Open Space Park is Cañon City’s newest park. Situated between the City of Cañon City on the east and Highway 50 on the west, the open space follows a north-south running hogback, covering about 500 acres. Locally known as The Hogbacks, the open space park is actually a segment of the Dakota Hogback formation, which, in its entirety, continues southward past the Colorado/New Mexico state line, and as far north as Wyoming. The same forces that created the Rocky Mountains to push upwards caused the Dakota formation to break and turn vertically around 65 million years ago. Within the Cañon City Hogbacks you can find Graneros Shale, Greenhorne Limestone, Ft. Hayes Limestone, ammonite fossils, baculites, shark teeth, belemnites, clams, coprolites, and other unique fossils from the Cretaceous Period.

A Little Natural History: Cañon City, Colorado, is situated at what was once the bottom of the Western Interior Seaway: a warm, relatively shallow sea that extended all the way from the Gulf of Mexico to the Arctic Ocean. Approximately 110 million years ago during the early Cretaceous Period we could have witnessed a group of dinosaurs walking through the mud along the edge of this seaway! The Hogbacks Open Space Park is home to a unique road built atop the Dakota Hogback called Skyline Drive. Constructed by inmate labor in 1905, Skyline Drive continues to be a beautiful and fun drive, bike ride, and/or walk for all. At the crest of Skyline Drive you’ll be treated to stunning views in every direction, as well as... Dinosaur footprints!

The city-owned portion of the Hogbacks grew in 1999 when the city acquired 339 acres of Hogbacks property, at which time a small group of residents met with city officials to voice concerns about the unmanaged [motorized] use of the area. The City of Cañon City studied the area and hopes were high for a potential master plan.

When no measures had been taken to fulfill this notion of a managed open space park by 2007, residents filled the chamber at a Cañon City Council meeting. Locals presented a petition signed by over 100 concerned community members asking the council to take action in managing The Hogbacks area and its out-of-control use. Support to protect the area grew in the following months and the Skyline Hogback Preservation Committee was formed. Their focus was on sustainable community use and the preservation of the Hogbacks and Skyline Drive area. The group continued to garner support from other local organized groups to assist and collaboratively work together with the mayor and council members.

During the summer of 2008 the Cañon City Council unanimously approved a measure to place the Hogbacks issue on the November ballot, allowing the community to vote on the future of the area. The ordinance would allow the area to be preserved, reclaimed, restored, and used as an open space. Cañon City voters resoundingly declared “Yes” to the Hogbacks issue.

Welcome to The HogbacksCanon City's Geological and Paleontological Gem

by Monica McGowan


Starting in 2008 and continuing to the present, several groups have continued to consolidate their efforts in order to support the creation of a master plan and its implementation. These groups include: the SHPS (Skyline Hogback Preservation Society), LAMBA (Lower Arkansas Mountain Bicycling Association), the Cañonland Walkers and Hikers, Garden Park Paleontology Society, Cañon City School District RE-1, Rocky Mountain Backcountry Horsemen, the local Audubon Society, Cañon City Geology Club, and Stones ‘n’ Bones. Success ensued when the City of Cañon City adopted the Hogbacks Open Space Master Plan in 2012.

Unfortunately, just when we were about to look at rehabilitation efforts for the Hogbacks, the Royal Gorge Fire swept across the Royal Gorge Park area

in June of 2013. It effectively closed our area’s most visible attraction: the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. The loss of property and income from the bridge’s visitors was devastating to our community, and we had to come up with alternate funding sources to improve the Hogbacks.

Thankfully, an anonymous donor gave $50,000 to the City of Cañon City whose purpose was to purchase a piece of private property that bisected the northern and southern sections of the Hogbacks. This gift alongside a completed master plan paved the way for us to pursue grants for the area’s rehabilitation.

Working together with the City, BLM, and other community groups, the Hogbacks area was fortunate to earn two grants in 2014. According to Rex Brady,


the Cañon City Director of Parks and Facilities, the entire Hogbacks project is truly the product of community effort. “The only way things happen is when people get involved, come up with a good ideas, and get together to make it happen. That’s what happened here.”

We are excited to share that the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) both awarded us with monies to pare down the dozens of social trails to a select few totaling nine miles of high quality, sustainable trails. We also plan to re-seed damaged areas, build new culverts for appropriate drainage, as well as erect signage to educate visitors regarding the geology, paleontology, and trail etiquette of the area. “This effort shows true partnership and collaboration of local sources and resources,” SHPS President, Monica McGowan said. “The Skyline Hogback Open Space Park will offer recreational, economic and environmental benefits to Cañon City.” This improved recreational area located in Cañon City’s backyard is ready for you to check it out – whether by foot, bicycle, or horse!

The family-friendly Greenhorn Trail is seven to eight feet wide and approximately 2.5 miles long. This trail has an aggregate road base. It accommodates wheelchair access and provides a solid trail for bike riding and pedestrian use. From the trail you can also access the “Old Skyline Drive” trail and hike to the top of Skyline Drive from the Greenhorn Trail. A short Quarry Trail also allows you to access an old abandoned quarry below Old Skyline Drive Trail.

A newly constructed Graneros Trail hosts a two-mile singletrack, multiple-use trail. This fun, flowy trail is perfect for the beginner bicyclist and hiker. The views from this trail will allow you see Cañon City, and over the tops of the smaller hogbacks.

By the end of 2015 the Hogbacks will also be home to the Dakota Ridge Trail. Built by the Mile High Youth Corps, this trail will be a technical singletrack trail, providing a more challenging recreational experience. The view on the Dakota Ridge Trail is impressive!

For local maps and trails in our area: http://www.crankpedalers.com/mountain.html compliments of Lower Arkansas Mountain Bicycling Association (LAMBA).

Trails


RedCanyon

Park


Qand

ANameAdam Hartman

Origin:Originally from Omaha, NE - later Wyoming - still later Southern California

How long have you lived here?I have lived in Cañon City for almost 14 years

Activities you enjoy the most?Cycling - road, mountain, and cross

Favorite Spot?ROAD BIKE - Big loop from Cañon City, up 8 mile, across the Royal Gorge Bridge, up Copper Gulch, south on 69 a bit, west to Cotopaxi on county road, back to Cañon City on HWY 50 (River Road). Simply amazing ride with multiple sustained climbs, incredibly beautiful views, and a long section of riding next to the whitewater of the Arkansas River.

Favorite Trail?LAMBA (Lower Arkansas Mountain Bike Association) and FAR (Fremont Adventure Recreation) have worked very hard over the last several years to build quality single-track trails in Fremont County. My favorite is perhaps the trail system at Oil Well Flats (north of CC), which offers tremendous technical challenges as well as some fun, flowing descents.

What keeps you here?I believe that Fremont County offers unparalleled outdoor opportunity, and that with concerted effort and stewardship, it will only become better! The river corridor and the network of burgeoning trails in and around Cañon City is simply top notch. I can hike, bike, and float world-class trails and waters...all from literally my front door.


Hi, my name is Dingo. I have four legs, lots of hair, and my tail is always wagging! I don’t know where I came from, but I know I am part Shepherd. My mom & dad adopted me last year from the local Humane Society, and ever since then, I’ve had the best life I could ever imagine! It was kind of scary at first, especially since I didn’t know where I was going, but once I got home and met my two dog sisters, Kona and Molly, I saw how happy they were! They had warm beds, treats, and even a dog door and yard! The best part was finding out about all the cool walks we go on, EVERYDAY!

My mom and dad do pretty good about taking us on field trips; it seems like we’re always exploring somewhere new that has lots of smells; thank goodness too! I am almost three years old and unlike my sisters, who are eight, I have a ton of energy to get out! If I didn’t get exercise, mom’s shoes would be strewn across the yard and destroyed; I just can’t help it, I love to chew!

Most of the time, mom and dad are pretty busy, it seems like they are always doing something, but they always find the time to take my sisters and I to the local River Walk, located right in Cañon City. It’s so easy to get to, we’re only in the car for five or ten minutes; luckily mom has the window down and I get to stick my head out and feel the breeze on my tongue! The River Walk is really long and runs continuously for five miles and there are a lot of spots with extra loops that make for great sniffing and peeing areas. It starts at Mackenzie Ave, East of Cañon City and goes all the way to PCC Fremont Campus, West of town. In the summer it can get busy so mom always goes early in the morning or late in the evening so we can beat the heat and the crowds. My sister, Molly, a

Bernese Mountain Dog, gets hot with all her thick fur so her and Kona, a Chow-Chow mix, love the water; they get in the river every chance they have (which feels like always) and they just stand there, cooling off and letting the water drift between their paws. I prefer chasing all the squirrels! Be careful though, mom and dad usually keep us on a leash (which is the rule) because there can be a lot of other animals such as deer, foxes, bear and skunks. As much as I love looking for skunks, their nasty smell sticks with you for awhile! YUCK! Also, mom picks up after me when I use the bathroom (which is the rule), so there are usually bags for this in the parking lots.

My favorite time at the river is the winter because the air is crisp and everything is so quiet and peaceful; mom’s favorite part is that there are no mosquitoes! I know Molly loves the winter because she is always rolling in the cool grass or snow; she’s such a goofball! Dad likes the river trail because we can go for just a quick twenty minute walk or he can take us for an hour or more if we want and it’s right in town!

If mom and dad have more time, Ecological Park, located off Temple Canyon Road, is one of their favorite walks. There are a few more hills here, so they feel good about their own exercise and the best part is Kona, Molly, and I don’t have to wear leashes! There are other dogs (and horses) around, but all my fellow canine buddies are really good about meeting and greeting and going on their way. There are a lot of trails intersecting in this area so we can pick and choose where we want to go, what we want to see, and how long we want to take. My favorite trail leads to Grape Creek and then we can walk along the creek for awhile. It’s not too far, but I am ready for the water by the time we get there!

Dingo'sWalkabout


Mom doesn’t bring us here too much in the summer because there are only two water sources, the creek and a big tire that has some spring water of some sort fed into it and Molly loves lapping up that water. Eco Park is located in a desert area and dad says he’s seen rattlesnakes there before; Kona has even been bit by one! OUCH! Mom gets us our rattlesnake vaccinations every spring, but she still worries! I just love roaming around and sniffing and mom just keeps an eye on us; it’s great! Be careful of any cactus though, I learned my lesson the hard way!

If mom has a day off and wants us all (herself included) to get some real exercise, we head to Florence Mountain Park where Newlin Creek is located. It’s about a thirty minute drive and the last mile is pretty rugged in our subaru. Most other people park just before the trailhead and walk in so their cars aren’t bruised up. Newlin Creek has a lot to offer! From the trailhead, the whole trail is about three miles and is mostly shaded and follows the creek the whole way. The trail even crosses the creek over and over again! This trail is great for me because it is gradually up hill so I can burn some energy. Molly loves it because it is shady with water access all along the hike. Kona loves it too because she loves to take her time and sniff everything as she walks, which is a bit slower, but mom and dad always find some great rocks to rest on! If we go to the top, we reach an old steam engine and a grassy field. Mom always remembers to pack a snack for her, dad and us too; she loves to relax at the top and enjoy all the wildflowers.

Sometimes we run into other humans and their fur babies, but usually off leash. I always stay close to mom and dad but they still makes sure we have our id tags on us at all times, just in case something scares me and I get separated. They also makes sure we have snacks and water (just in case the creek isn’t flowing) and jackets for themselves. I can’t remember how I lived and exercised before mom and dad adopted me. I am so thankful to have them and Kona and Molly; so that we can explore colorful Colorado together!

If you don’t have a fur baby, but want to exercise a dog like me who is waiting for his or her forever home, contact the Fremont Humane Society. I know they have a lot of dogs looking for a good walk along the river!

Dingo can be found, with his sisters, Kona and Molly, sniffing trees, chasing squirrels and wagging their tails along the Arkansas River.

Fleur and Jesse can be found making sure Dingo, Kona, and Molly aren’t getting into mischief.


One of my favorite spots around Cañon City is Four Mile Creek, north of town off of Red Canyon Road. This is a great place for a day trip by yourself or with the family, and is killer for those that want a little getaway that’s not hours away. The creek runs along the road and is easily accessible by a car, motorcycle or bike, or if you’re one of those crazy runners, is worth the work to run to. There is a parking area there with plenty of places to picnic and is also handicap accessible.

The creek is typically very cool and clear, with enough water to cool off, but not enough to be too dangerous. My kids would cruise up and down the creek with no worries, and my buddy Josh (who can’t swim) would even brave the ankle deep rapids! Throw on some mandals or Keen’s and take off up the creek! There are plenty of pools to sit down in and cool off, but most of it a little one can walk easily. The creek bed is gravel, sand, and some small rock, so sprawling out in the cool water on a blistering day is perfect. Super relaxing and comfortable, with the added benefit of a light shower when the dog decides he needs to shake off on you.

This creek is easily traversable and also provides plenty of nice pools to pull some brookies out of if you feel

Four Mile CreekBy Shawn Fitzgerald

like slinging a line. I am far from an expert fly fisherman, but feel like I’m world class with the numbers I’m catching! No wall hangers, but definitely a lot of fun! After I hit my quota of 4 lost flies hanging in the brush (about an hour), I decide to turn to my much superior hunting skills. With stealth and lightning fast reflexes, I finally catch my first crawdad. The first 20 I missed were not nearly the trophy as this one! Super cool! The kids freak out a bit on it, but with encouragement, decide they will hold it. “Awesome dad! He’s cool! Will you catch one that’s alive now?” Ahhhh…great times there, great memories! Must admit that I became somewhat reluctant to take my girls there as they eventually grew into teenagers. The serenity, remoteness, peacefulness and privacy… areas that a father hopes their daughters will not share…EVER… with others…until they are married.

:)


Qand

A NameAmber Pfaff

Origin:I am a native to Colorado.

How long have you lived here?I have lived in Fremont County, off and on, for 17 years.

Activities you enjoy the most?I am addicted to adventures in the outdoors! I enjoy backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, 14ers, canyoneering, paddle boarding, mountain biking, rafting, skydiving, snowshoeing and camping. Like I said, I am crazy for the outdoors ! It is truly the love of my life. Colorado is not only the place I have called home all my life, but my backyard for outdoor activities. My second home is backcountry Utah. Eventually I would love to have my own outdoor company to share my passion with everyone.

Favorite Spot?Backpacking is my favorite! I love the Sangre De Cristos. So peaceful and so much to explore. South Colony Lakes would have to be my go to spot.

Only in Fremont County or Hidden Gem?Fremont County has so much to offer for the outdoor enthusiast. Tons of hiking and biking trails. Not to mention some of the best rafting in the state and world class rock climbing on shelf road. My two favorite spots in Fremont County would have to be Grape Creek to the Temple (hidden gem) and Fremont Peak (the highest point in the county) elevation 7233 ft.

What keeps you here?When someone says there is nothing to do in Fremont County, I look at them and say look around, take time to explore the beauty this county has to offer. So many adventures that await you!



Fremont County From A Horse's Eye View

By Debi Stevens Fremont County; a county rich in western history—ranching, farming, mining. A history brought to this area by many horses hooves. Horses, the mode of transportation long before then arrival of the locomotive or any other motorized vehicle. Today, Fremont County has a culture rich in a variety of equine activities that glean from yesterday years. To give visitors an idea of where to start you will find below a few organizations you can contact to get more information and meet other people that enjoy their horses’ capabilities in a variety of different ways. 4-H Equine Projects for children 9 to 18; Classical, western, gaited dressage; to the booming guns of the mounted cowboy shoot; it is all here. Many choose to enjoy the thousands of miles of mountain trails just to see our gorgeous country. Trails for riding. Social trails. Old roads. Any good trail map is a good place to start. Whatever your choice, happy trails to you.

Arkansas Valley Dressage AssociationClassical Western or Gaited [email protected] 315 2625

4H Equine ProjectTommy Covington, County [email protected] 276 7390

Colorado Mounted ThunderMounted Cowboy ShootingHeath Marshall, President 719 276 4406

Rocky Mountain Back Country HorsemenTina Heffner, [email protected] 648 1562

North American Trail Riding Conference NATRC Region 3Sharon Roper-Dashner, [email protected]

American Endurance Ride Conference [email protected]

Cory Walker and his golden palomino horse create a eye catching picture competing in Fremont County 4H Fair, Speed Events. photos courtesy of Debi Stevens

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Howard, Coloradophoto courtesy of Susan Jo Baumann

photo courtesy of Debi Stevens


Qand

ANameMegan Merry-Numsen

Origin:Cañon City, CO

How long have you lived here?I was born and raised in Cañon City, then left for 14 years to live on the western slope. I have lived in Cañon City again for the last 5 years.

Activities you enjoy the most?Mountain biking, hiking, whitewater sports and some rock climbing.

Favorite Spot?My favorite place to mountain bike in Fremont County is out at Oil Well Flats.

Favorite Trail?There are so many different trails out at Oil Well Flats, it’s easy to pick and chose with each ride for whatever your goals may be for that particular ride. There’s also trails for all abilities. You can go there to ride for half an hour or three hours. The trails are set up for a lot of variety.

Hidden Gem? Cañon City has so many little hidden wilderness gems. Grape Creek is one of my favorite places to ducky (inflatable kayak) when the water is high because the scenery for 5 or 6 miles is so spectacular and remote.

What keeps you here?There’s so much variety in Fremont County. Every direction you go, there’s something adventurous to offer. We are constantly learning more about this county and it’s resources. Just this year, we’ve learned there are 4 natural rock arches, and natural ice falls for climbing. Even though I grew up in Cañon City, I realize I still have so much to explore here. It’s exciting!

photo courtesy of Spencer Dinosaur Tracks at Skyline Drive

photo by kpg


CANONLAND WALKERS AND HIKERS

mission is to provide opportunities for members to improve and maintain their physical and mental well-being and, to develop enduring friendships while enjoying the great outdoors.

Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. For the meeting location...join us on our morning hike or check the previous month’s minutes or call our contact number.

The group leads hikes every Wednesday year-round for its’ members. For those who choose not to “hike” - every Tuesday, the group also enjoy “walks” in our local area which are on relatively flat terrain.

Find out more info at cañonlandwalkershikers.org

FREMONTADVENTURE RECREATION exists to promote participation in outdoor recreation and endurance sports in Fremont County. We believe in strengthening our community by building a culture of healthy living through outdoor

recreation in the royal gorge region. So get out and go FAR!

You can read more at www.joinfar.org

RED CANYON GROTTOThe Red Canyon Grotto is based in Fremont County and is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of Southern Colorado’s natural caves. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. For questions or inquiries into joining the grotto or attending our meetings visit www.facebook.com

LAMBA and Cañon City

CRANK PEDALERSare the go-to for all things biking. Find out more information on their websites at:www.crankpedalers.com/www.facebook.com/LowerArkMBA

THE CANON CITY GEOLOGY CLUB is a non-profit educational club operating since 1928. We are the first rockhounding club in Colorado.

Our mission is to: 1. Increase member knowledge of the earth

sciences pertaining to minerals, gems, rocks, artifacts, and fossils.

2. Promote and perpetuate knowledge of the lapidary arts.

3. Encourage field trips.4. Study the earth sciences, particularly of geology

and mineralization in place.5. Encourage greater public interest and education

in minerals, gems, and fossils by cooperating with local educational institutions with presentations of local mineral specimens and with examples of lapidary art.

We in Fremont County are so fortunate to have world-class geology and paleontology in our backyard. The geologic history of Fremont County begins with 1.7 billion year old Precambrian rock. Cañon City and the surrounding county contain some of the richest geological history in America, giving us the opportunity to study it in place. Some of these features are the Royal Gorge, Garden Park Fossil Area, Skyline Drive, Indian Springs, Shelf Road, TeePee Buttes, amethyst claim, and Temple Canyon, among others.

Activities and Field Trips

Field trips are planned during the spring, summer and fall, and all members are encouraged to participate. We have sponsored many trips to the various gem, mineral and fossil rich areas in Colorado, and we regularly visit the New Hope Amethyst claim, an amethyst mine owned by the club a few miles north and west of Cañon City.

Our meetings usually include short programs on one of the earth sciences, presentations by visiting experts, and show-and-tell by members.

Join us on the second Monday of each month (except July and August) at 6 p.m. for our business meeting and at 7 p.m. for an interesting and informative program. Our venue is the Fellowship Hall of the Methodist Church, corner of 9th and Main St., Cañon City. Our meetings are open to the public and we encourage visitors.

Visit us at www.canoncitygeologyclub.com

Dr. Kessler and some of his students, 1932.



The Royal Gorge ATV Club is a family-based club with two primary goals:

1) To enjoy safe, yet challenging ATV rides in the natural beauty offered to all lucky enoughto live in Colorado.

2) To bring friends and family together in a year-round outdoor activity.

For more information visit:• royalgorgeatv.com• https://www.facebook.com/groups/royalgorgeatv/

* All ATV photos courtesy of Susan Jo Baumann

Royal Gorge ATV CLUB

Left page: Penrose CommonsThis page top: Phantom CanyonThis page bottom: Texas Creekphotos courtesy of Susan Jo Baumann


Top Left: McCoy GulchTop Right: The Bank Old Quarry

Bottom Right: Sand GulchBottom Left: Howard

photos courtesy of Susan Jo Baumann

Out and About in Fremont County !



The Royal Gorge Bridge sits at 955 feet above the Arkansas River. It is 1,260 feet long, 18 feet wide, and has 1,292 wooden planks.

Over 102 miles of GOLD MEDAL WATERS stretching west from Cañon City to

Leadville on the Arkansas River


Qand

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NameLuke Jackson Miller

Origin:Born in Buena Vista, CO

How long have you lived here?28 years in Cañon City

Activities you enjoy the most?I enjoy hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, fishing, camping, motorcycling, kayaking, rafting, and geocaching but I’ve always been particularly fascinated with the exploration of Fremont County’s waterways. I began

taking inner tubes and small inflatable rafts between Cañon City and Florence on the Arkansas River with friends when I was 13. My Mom would drop us off and pick us up later in the day. I became a certified commercial raft guide with River Runners at 18yo in Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas and began guiding in the Royal Gorge at 19yo. During my 16 seasons as a commercial raft guide I’ve had many memorable experiences such as running the Royal Gorge at nearly 5,000 cubic feet per second of water flow (commercial cutoff is 3,200 cfs), completing a trip from Buena Vista to Cañon City (88 miles) in a day, several trips in December and January which involved portaging ice bridges, and successfully navigating Grape Creek during flood stage in various rafts and kayaks.

Favorite Spot?There are several spots in Fremont County which I feel particularly drawn to. A few of which are Sunshine Falls in the Royal Gorge, a section of steep rapids and waterfalls in Temple Canyon on Grape Creek known as “The Tights”, and the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area.

Favorite Trail?The best trails for day hikes in the Fremont County area are the trail to “The Tights” in Temple Canyon and the “trail” from Skagway reservoir near Victor to the abandoned Skagway Power Plant in the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area. To find the trail to “The Tights” begin at the Temple Canyon Park Bridge and follow the narrow gauge railroad track bed 3 miles upstream to the bottom of the waterfall section and 1 more mile to the top. These trails will involve crossing the creeks several times which may be difficult/dangerous at higher water flows. More adventurous and hardy hikers can also strap on their backpacking rigs and continue past the Power Plant all the way through the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area to the southern access point outside of Penrose. This will take a minimum of two days and is only possible at lower water flows. This area has more search and rescue calls than the rest of Fremont County combined so if you plan on trying this one do your homework and prepare yourself for a challenge as there is no trail downstream of the powerplant.

Only in Fremont County - Hidden Gem?Nowhere I’ve been can compare with the sheer rugged beauty of the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area. The creek drops over 3,000 feet in 12 miles and features at least half a dozen falls of over 10’ and at least two over 20’. That couple with the historical significance of the Skagway Power Plant and the beauty of the sheer granite cliffs make a backpacking trip through Beaver Creek very memorable indeed!

What keeps you here?My family all lives here and I like being close to them. The climate and nearly endless opportunities for outdoor adventures coupled with the low cost of living and the proximity to the larger cities of the Front Range make Fremont County a great place to call home.




top photo : Raft Rodeophoto courtesy of Spencer bottom photo : Kayak Tricksphoto by kpg


I have been rafting on the Arkansas River since I was about 8 years old. My stepdad was a raft guide and owner of a little rafting company. I was from the south, and grew up on the Gulf outside of Pensacola, Fl., which is where my dad was from. Being a beach girl, I would have never thought that years later, rafting would be a huge part of my life. All of the guides that worked for my family were such good and interesting people. They each had something different to offer and came from all over the place, some even from different countries. I always looked up to them and wanted to do a job that

was fun, would keep me in good shape, and challenged me. I went rafting here and there growing up, but never really understood the river until I trained to be a raft guide in 2004, and that is just when I started to learn about and be able to comprehend the energy that the river holds. The river is still and always will be teaching me and throwing new experiences my way. I always thought that the river just pushed the boat where it needed to go. Apparently the guides that I had been riding with, knew what they were doing. Since then, I have not been able to stop rafting. I am fully addicted to the whitewater. I love the job of being a raft guide. I get to meet people from all over the place, and take them on an adventure on their vacation.

While I have rafted on multiple different rivers, I am partial to the Lower Arkansas River. The whole Arkansas river, in general, is very popular for commercial rafting, private boating, and fishing. I have spent most of my days on two different 10 miles stretches, or somedays both sections together to make a full day trip. The Bighorn Sheep Canyon is a straight forward and fun section. It’s best for family and anyone who just wants to kick back, relax and enjoy the ride.

The Royal Gorge section is where my heart is. This section is a class 3/4+ section, that can get pretty intense at higher water flows. It deviates from the highway for the whole trip for that feeling of just being away from it all. The walls in the gorge reach high up to over 1000 ft. on both sides. The river gets really narrow and at low water is super technical. The Arkansas does change quite a bit from lower (more technical) water, to higher (more intense) water. I personally enjoy all the levels. I like that it is constantly changing; it keeps me on my toes.

I love how warm the summers are in Cañon City. It makes going rafting that much more enjoyable. The splashes from the river are so refreshing when it’s 90 degrees outside. No wetsuit for me! The shuttles are super short. The furthest we drive usually is 20 miles upstream, and then we get to float on home. This means more time on the river and less time getting to and from it.

In the past few years, things along the river in Cañon City have been progressively getting better. Thanks to some big fundraising, they have been able to clean up some of the river through town, revamp and add to the river walk, and even build a couple of surf waves. The surf waves are fun when I’m working, the guests love a little surf right before the take out. It’s also pretty nice to go play around in when I’m not working. I could swim in that eddy all day.

I don’t know if I will be able to be a raft guide forever. But once I get a “real job”, as they call it, I am sure that I will still be rafting for fun out here on the Arkansas river, as it is good for the soul, and it is home to me.

by Sarah Grimes

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On a snowy and blustery day in January of 2014, I decided that even though I might love a summer vacation to some exotic locale, the necessities of my other job obligations and those pesky things called “bills,” I knew my ability to fly away would be limited. So, taking the “stay-cation” to yet another level, one in which I could try something new while also earning some extra money, I set out to find a way to work at one of the rafting companies, “up on Eight Mile Hill.”

In Cañon City, Colorado, we are graced with the beautiful Arkansas River, which runs to whitewater all along the US Hwy 50 corridor between Salida and Cañon City. Along this stretch of river are approximately 40 rafting companies that employ hundreds of river guides, bus drivers, office staff, and managers. Along this same corridor are also a variety of other adventure opportunities for tourists, such as zip-lining, Segway rentals, ATV companies, and horseback riding outfitters. There are even flying options for those tourists who would like to view this gorgeous area from the air. Tourists visit the area to hike, climb, bicycle, fish, and camp. We are truly lucky to live amid such grandeur and magnificent scenery.

So, to find my spot up on Eight Mile Hill, the first thing I did was to find my newest - old resume - and update it, even though I had not used it in more than eight years. Then I started asking around, since many rafting company offices are not staffed during the winter months. So, biding my time until April 1, I collected information, names, email addresses and phone number targeting five or so companies that I thought I could work for and respect their ethical standards, reputations for how they treated workers, and their river safety histories. I wanted to be able to be a proud representative of the company that would hire me!

One company where I applied wanted staff available seven days a week, which was definitely not me, since I knew as a professional photographer, I already had several dates booked for weddings, family reunions, and other photography appointments. I also had signed up to teach at least one summer semester English class at the Fremont Campus of Pueblo Community College. Basically, my available days would be Tuesdays and Thursdays and maybe a few other dates if they needed extra help during the busiest part of the season. So, I was open to negotiate other available days. Two companies did not even contact me back after I sent in my

Lessons Learned Working at a Rafting Company During

the Summer of 2014by Marianne P. Beel


resume. Another company was a little too late, also offering me an office staff position just a couple of days after Clear Creek Rafting Company did.

My first contact with Clear Creek Rafting was a few emails and then an unexpected phone interview as I was headed out the door to teach a class. That first phone call was followed by an official, scheduled phone interview in mid-April, to which I was invited up for a training day at the very end of April. At that point, I was not sure I had been hired, or if I was going for an in-person interview. So that rainy and chilly April Sunday, I ventured up to the company’s office at the top of Eight Mile Hill on the south side of HWY 50, and I met the person I had been emailing and talking to during the interview process. Bundled up in a warm jacket, two sweaters, and jeans, I learned the correct way to hang up T-Shirts, how to work a cash register, the opening and closing procedures for the office, and how to respond to customer inquiries for both telephone and walk-in customers. By the time I headed back down the hill six hours later, my head was swimming with all kinds of new information, and the guidelines I would be following for the summer. Although I had been rafting on several different rivers over the years, including a 16-day trip down through the Grand Canyon, I realized I did not know much about the mechanics of working in an office for a rafting company. I was, frankly, questioning my sanity at that point, and wondering how I would ever run that formidable cash register.

Actually, once I started working, I was rarely in the office by myself, which was good most of the time. Other times there would be so much noise it was hard to talk to the customers on the telephone with so many people talking in the office - lots of people all talking at once - river guides talking to customers, guides talking to other guides, parents talking to their children, kids running around, and the phones are also ringing while my office manager, and owner of the company is both on his cell phone and talking to me. Oh, and that is usually when the delivery person stops by or the photo runners come charging in to deliver the morning’s river images on jump drives that have to be quickly downloaded onto CDs. I had no idea, in the course of a day, how many people would be stopping into the office, and that is not including customers. There are the mechanics, the water delivery truck drivers, other businesses drop in hoping we will display their company’s brochures, and neighboring raft company representatives stop with party flyers and invites. It is a busy, busy place and the time from before 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. just flies by.

One of the most enlightening elements of my work in the rafting office has been the realization that people from all over the world, and certainly many different parts of the country, come to raft down the glorious and mighty Arkansas River. I had no idea! In the course of a day, I see people from Ohio talking with their raft mates from France. The next day tourists from Georgia are talking excitingly about a river rapid they went through with visitors from New Zealand. Tourists come here; we are a destination point for people around the globe. And it is not just tourists who bond with one another.

The bonds of friendship and camaraderie amongst the employees within and between the rafting companies are life-dependent, understandably, and those ties run very deep. Guides know that those ties support their lives and the lives of their customers, affecting the longevity of their companies, their very livelihoods, and are paramount in importance. As soon as the river shows its temperament with unexpected events, everyone acts quickly to correct any situations that occur. This fact should assure the customers that their safety is also ultimate in the minds of everyone at every rafting company. When incidents on the river happen, any guide or other personnel from any company will take all safety steps necessary to help correct the situation. Every river guide is thoroughly trained in river safety, CPR, and first aid. Most river guides have logged thousands of trips down rivers for decades. Newer guides go thorough many training certifications and are paired with more experienced guides for up to three years before they are able to become Trip Leaders.

So as I sat one afternoon, baking in the heat of the August day inside the raft company office awaiting the photo runners with the next set of river images, I realized that working “up on Eight Mile Hill” had become a part of me and that my stay-cation was a success. I had met people from all over the world, I had earned some extra money, but most importantly, I had been adopted into the family of people who work and draw their livelihoods from the waters, the banks, and in the rushes of excitement and adrenaline that reside along the Arkansas River. So as the river of life goes rushing by, I am lucky enough to either bike, run, hike, and raft the Arkansas River each and every day. The changing of the water flows, the changing of the seasons, the changing of the clouds and sun, all add to the magnificent patchwork that is my life in this wondrous Arkansas Valley.



Downriver Raft Race Event @ the Whitewater Festivalphoto courtesy of Spencer


Howawesomeis this job !

Raft Guides Mark Crawford (top left), Alan Williamson (bottom left), and Aaron Formby (bottom right) are all geared up and ready to start a beautiful day guiding on the Arkansas River.

photos courtesy of Jed Whitley


Qand

AName: Erica Koenig

Origin: Chico, CA

How long have you lived here? On and off for 14 years, but now I am sticking around.

Activities you enjoy the most? Cycling, rafting, fishing, hiking, thrifting (our thrift stores are amazing), more cycling.

Favorite spot? All of Fremont County is full of amazing spots, but last summer my favorite spot to sit and take in the splendor that is this place was on the west end of the river walk, on the bridge that crosses the river. It is really amazing to watch the sunsets from the middle of the bridge. The river and the gorge walls look like they are being set on fire. Its my go-to place to take friends who are visiting. There is no way you can stand there and not be moved.

Favorite trail? All of Red Canyon Park. I really like hiking up the dry creek bed (don't do it in the afternoon when we are sure to get a thunderstorm). Its crazy to think that water cut its way through those rocks.

Find only in Fremont County or Hidden Gem? The people. The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. If you come into the bike shop/coffee shop and spend an hour, you are sure to meet someone who will take you up to their favorite trail, or tell you about their favorite place to ride. I think most of us really love this place and we want you to love it too, so we are all eager to show off our little slice of heaven.

What keeps you here? I wake up every morning and get to look at the mountains, from the comfort of my bed. It doesn't get much better than that.


Always see those grade numbers connected to a climb but wonder what they mean. Here is the Yosemite Decimal Rating System, as explained by Brian Wright over at coloradomountaineering.com.

Very good and plentiful holds. This is generally considered “easy” climbing. Usually less than vertical with large jug holds or many otherwise positive holds. Sometimes there seems to be some overlap with easy class 5 climbs and harder class 4 climbs. Short sections of low class 5 are often soloed by experienced climbers. Getting a little more challenging now. Often vertical with very good and plentiful holds or slabs with easy-to-find edges. Holds are abundant for climbers of any height and almost ladder-like in quality.

Plentiful holds that are mostly positive. Climbs of this range can be fully vertical but are almost never overhanging. Some 5.9s could possibly be overhanging for very short sections.

Requires use of very small holds, crimps, side-pulls, gastons, underclings stemming, etc, a great deal. 5.10s can be overhanging with very good holds. 5.12s are often overhanging with technical movement like dropped knees, etc. 5.12 slabs are very blank.

Climbing at this level is for the very best. Poor holds, monster overhangs, little rest, gymnastic ability, all qualities you are likely to find on a route at this level. Climbing 5.13s and 5.14s requires many hours of dedicated perseverance and considerable natural ability.

Very few climbers in the world have ever achieved this level and all are essentially household names.

Rock Climbing Ratings

5.0 to 5.4Easy Climbing

5.5 to 5.6Easy Moderate

5.7 to 5.9Moderate

5.10 to 5.12Advanced

5.13 to 5.14Elite

5.15Virtuoso


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Did you know that Shelf Road Climbing Area is a recognized world-class sport-climbing destination with over 800 routes of varying difficulty?

Want to know more information on local climbing areas or rock climbing in general. Mountain Project is a fantastic resource that contains a slew of information on all things climbing. Here you can find photos, ratings, testimonials, locations, and descriptions of climbs. Visit them at: www.mountainproject.com.

Here are some areas we have for climbing in Fremont County! • Newlin Creek • Oak Creek Canyon • Phantom Canyon • Shelf Road • Table Mountain South • The Wet Mountains


It was a perfect late fall day in Cañon City. The ones with sunshine and temps that let you climb comfortably in a t-shirt all day, without searching for shade from the sunshine that makes Shelf Road such a great three season climbing area. The hike out to Menses Prow was a familiar one to us, and we quickly had ropes up the climbs we were looking for. A few random clouds pushed across the sky, but the light spatterings of rain that fell, quickly dried in the sunshine and light breeze. We were having such a great time that no one noticed the darker clouds that crept in, until we found ourselves huddled under small overhangs trying to avoid the cold slushy drops that were pelting the rock. Soaked limestone doesn’t make for very safe climbing. Before noon, our perfect day seemed to be ruined. As we piled on layers and rain coats, we debated what to do with a washed out day of climbing. Reluctantly we packed up our wet ropes and started the trek out.

The walk back towards the parking lot was much more quiet than the hike in. I was beginning to make the list of all the things that I should probably try to get done on a rainy afternoon when

someone exclaimed “look down there!” Off in the distance we could see Cañon City getting rain from the edge of the front that had moved in. Even farther south wide open blue skies could be seen. From the vantage point of our cars, the good weather didn’t look all that far away. Another of our favorite climbing sites might even still be dry! Being the stubborn and over ambitious group of climbers that we were, we tossed our soaked packs in the cars and started driving towards the light.

The rain stopped by the time we got to town and we quickly found dry roads as we headed south on Oak Creek Grade into the Wet Mountains. The parking lot at the Stultz Trailhead was empty when we arrived but soon filled with laughter and joking around as we piled out of the cars. I really hate putting on wet gear, but it wasn’t so bad when it meant that there was still climbing to be had. The area doesn’t look like much until you push through the scrub oaks and hike over a small rise a few minutes from the trailhead. Then, one of the most beautiful valleys in the area opens up in front of you. The narrow lush valley floor has several hidden treasures to explore but we weren’t going that far today. Just a short way down the trail we found the first climbs at The Sunny Side of Voyageurs. Although much higher than Shelf Road, the granite rock was still warm from sunshine and we were ready to hang the wet ropes to dry. We had so much fun on the moderate sport climbs there, we didn’t even consider hiking down to the harder routes that were on our lists a little farther down the canyon.

Later, over pizza and beer, we decided that while not extreme, it was one of the crazier climbing days we had experienced. It’s great to have such variety so close to home!

Two SitesBy Ben Larson

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photos courtesy of Spencer


highwater run at “3 Rocks”photo by kpg


Qand

A NameSarah Grimes

Origin:Born in Thibodaux, Louisiana

How long have you lived here?I have lived in Cañon City on and off for the last 20 years.

Activities you enjoy the most?My favorite activities in Fremont County include rafting, rock climbing, playing at the surf wave, and hiking/exploring with my dogs.

Favorite Spot?I would have to say that my favorite spot is Corner Pocket. It’s a nice spot on the side of the river down in the Royal Gorge.

Favorite Trail?This is hard because there are so many, but I would have to say anywhere along Grape Creek. Even though you are minutes from town, when you are down by the creek, it seems like you are so far away from everything.

Hidden Gem?Stultz trail is a place that I just started exploring in the last couple of years. I rarely see anyone else out there, and it is a beautiful place.

What keeps you here?I move back to Cañon City every summer for my job that I love so much, rafting on the Arkansas river. I love rafting in Cañon because it is so hot in the summer and it makes being on the river that much better. I also come back because I have family and so many friends there.


Ever since I was a little girl I would find myself scouring my property, looking for hidden treasure, dinosaur bones, or a hole that would lead to China. I dreaded the sun going down, because that meant I would have to go inside for supper. As far as I was concerned, I was the next Indiana Jones. I suppose that adventure is something you’re born with, and it never seems to subside. Now I’m eighteen years old, and heading off to college at Fort Lewis in Durango, Colorado. Out of all the things that should scare me about going to college, the most daunting one is whether or not I’ll find a grotto. How will I become a trip leader? Or even be able to get the lock combinations. All of these worries come with the association of being an avid and active spelunker. Spelunking is caving and a grotto is simply a “caving club.” One that I have been active in for the last four years of high school. Believe it or not, but there are only two official high school caving clubs in the whole country. Canon City, Colorado happens to be home to one of those. Along with the help of our wonderful sponsor, Ken Cline, and my fellow seniors, we have created and lead our own interactive grotto. In the beginning, our club had few members and we were restricted to Canon City’s local caves, Fly and Marble (near Red Canyon.) None of us really knew what we were doing (including Mr. Cline). There had never been a grotto composed of teenagers before, and people were very hesitant about our maturity and skill level. The caving community throughout the world is a tight knit society where the majority of everyone involved, knows everybody else involved. That being said, we knew that we had to create a good reputation for ourselves In order to benefit the future of our club. We started slowly with multiple returns to Fly and Marble to learn about cave conservation, preservation, and safety. Over time we contacted the head of the Williams Canyon Project, Richard Rhineheart; who is leader over most projects and trips throughout Cave of the Winds and surrounding caves. This put us on a whole new level of caving. We now had access to almost every cave in Williams Canyon, and the opportunity to work with very prominent cavers, geologists, and surveyors including Mike Frazier, Rick Rhineheart, and Donald Davis. We were going to make history.

Grottoby Sierra Heimel

Flash forward a few years and you can find every member of our caving club pictured or written about in various magazines, articles, or retail caving books. Our names are even published on official survey maps of excavated caves. Our most prominent accomplishment as a grotto would be the discovery and exploration of Double Eagle Cave. What began as a fissure leading to a collapsed pile of rocks, has lead to a legitimate cave with fossils, formations, and endless tunnels of dirt. We’ve been digging this bad boy out for almost three years. Although Double Eagle is still in the process of excavation and surveying, it has promising leads which may connect to the commercial cave “Cave of the Winds.” Our club has also had the opportunity to work on and explore very large and famous caves throughout Colorado. We’ve been a part of the maintenance crew in Glenwood Cavers, removing rock debris, and brushing formations. We also had the wonderful opportunity to go on an exploration trip through Groaning Cave in the White River National Forest. As a grotto, we have not only over come huge obstacles in the caving world society, but we have also made connections and ties to famous cavers all over the world. Not to mention we’ve moved 80 tons of dirt in the past three years. On a personal level, caving has opened up many opportunities for me, and has also seriously altered my life. My best personal achievement through caving took place In Shippensburg, Pennsylvania at the National Speleological Society Convention. Through my work in the local cave “Manitou Grands”, I had the opportunity to meet Dave Jackson. Dave is an engineer and graduate from MIT, who has dedicated his life’s work to CaveSim. Dave has essentially engineered his own cave simulator which is a physical cave you can enter that teaches you the importance of cave conservation and preservation. Through Dave’s generosity, he was able to sponsor me to take me with him to the national convention. At the convention I divvied my time between teaching children and adults alike the importance of cave safety and being able to explore and lead trips throughout Pennsylvania. I had never been in a bigger leadership position than when I was handed a muddy map from the 60’s and told to lead a group of 3 into a cave I had never been into before. My trip to Shippensburg not only taught me my leadership


potential, but also allowed me to meet and converse with the people who influenced my career and college choice. I have decided that I want to take my love of caving and the outdoors into the field of Geology. I can see myself fostering my passion for caving and my knowledge of Geology into one. This is why I have chosen Durango for my location of study. I hope to be able to bring my love of caving into Fort Lewis College (since there is currently no regular grotto.) It’s almost a repeat of my experience as a freshman in High school. I will once again have to climb the caving totem pole to establish myself as a responsible and passionate caver. My biggest current goal is to have an active and dedicated grotto down at Fort Lewis by the end of my first year. In closing I would just like to express my passion for the other outdoor opportunities Fremont County has to offer. Caving is typically a winter-time activity since the temperature inside caves stays regulated at about 60 degrees Fahrenheit all year long. The river is my other passion, and in the summer time you can find me riding the waves in the Arkansas River on my 2 person ducky or on my family’s raft. I enjoy kayaking through town or boogie boarding on the wave at the duck park. I also spend a good chunk of my summer backpacking around to different alpine lakes in Colorado. My favorite locations are in the Sangre’s, where I’ll typically spend 3 or 4 nights exploring the peaks. In the fall when the river is getting a little too chilly I try my skills at rock-climbing on shelf road. Although I’m very much so a novice rock-climber, I find it thoroughly exciting. However, the most adventurous thing that I have partaken in over the past year would have to be my skydiving experience right outside of Canon City. I’m so grateful to live in a state and community where I have every opportunity to embrace my passions for the outdoors. I encourage anyone interested in caving, rafting, hiking, or rock-climbing to take full advantage of the easy access in Canon City! Looking back, I suppose I did become the next Indiana Jones.

Sierra Heimel is one of the Spring 2015 recipients of The Fremont Explorer Scholarship Fund for high school seniors. She plans to major in Geology at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado in the fall.

Skyline Cavephoto by kpg


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Dinosaur plaque at Marsh Quarry Trailphoto by kpg


Qand

ANameMike “Millz” Millard

Origin:San Diego, CA

How long have you lived here?I have been in Cañon City every summer since 2011 but this is my first winter here (although it feels like summer compared to my last few winters in Leadville, CO).

Activities you enjoy the most?Exploring, rock climbing, rafting, skating, painting, cycling, tinkering, building, hiking, loving, cooking, eating, and of course after doing all that in a day, sleeping!

Favorite Spot?Sunshine Falls Rapid on the Arkansas river in the Royal Gorge! It makes my spine tingle every time I am there and makes me feel humbled by the beauty and power of nature.

Favorite Trail?Newlin Creek Trail. I’m like a kid at Disneyland running to check out every boulder and creek crossing every time I hike up that trail! and there’s still so much more to discover there!

Hidden Gem?Stultz Canyon! Its like a mini Yosemite, and so close to town!

What keeps you here?The river, the rocks, the good people, and the feeling that this small town is turning into something more amazing everyday!


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Need directions to yourfinancial destination?

Jake FrancisFinancial Advisor.

109 Latigo LaneSuite FCanon City, CO 81212719-276-3443

Member SIPC

The Arkansas River winding through the Royal Gorge Canyonphoto courtesy of Mark Crawford


No matter what your illness or injury, we stand ready.

So when emergencies strike, know that exceptional care is standing by at St. Thomas More Hospital. With physiciansboard certified in Emergency Medicine and a nursing staff with extensive trauma and emergency services training,we are Cañon City’s access point to the Centura Health Trauma System, a network of trauma centers, emergencyresources, Flight For Life® Colorado and a comprehensive statewide EMS support system.

For minor conditions that require attention but do not suggest an immediate threat to your life, visit Centura HealthUrgent Care Canon City, the new urgent care clinic managed by St. Thomas More.

Find out how short your ER wait time will be at stmhospital.org today.

1338 Phay AvenueCañon City, CO 81212719-285-2000stmhospital.org/emergency

3245 E. Highway 50, Suite ECañon City, CO 81212719-285-2888stmhospital.org/urgent-care

In life’s most critical moments,seconds matter.

Centura Health complies with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and no person shall be excluded fromparticipation in, be denied benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrim-ination in the provision of any care or service on the grounds of race,religion, color, sex, national origin, sexual preference ancestry, age, familialstatus, disability or handicap. Copyright © Centura Health, 2013

We are part of the Centura Health TraumaSystem, the region’s largest and mostcomprehensive network of trauma careand emergency services.

A beautiful arctic wolf curls up from the cold @ Mission: Wolf in Westcliffe photo courtesy of Spencer


Early on a fall morning, I was heading up the River Road. My dad and I planned to spend a relaxing Saturday fly fishing on the Arkansas. As we pulled into Lone Pine, the first rays of sun penetrated the Bighorn Canyon. We backed the truck and trailer down the ramp to the edge of the bank. Sliding our raft into the water, I noticed the stark contrast of the warm sun on my face and the frigid water around my feet. Although it was uncomfortable, I enjoyed the river’s bite on my toes. “You got everything?” my dad said above the tranquil sound of the river. “Yup. The rod and the vests are in the raft,” I replied, “You got the oars first?” He responded with a nod and we pushed off onto the water. By now, the day was heating up, but I could feel the cool air off of the river. Pole in hand, I stripped off some line to get ready for my first cast. The fly made its small whipping sound as I casted it off towards the bank. While I watched it drift on the water I took in the morning. The only noise in the tall granite walls was the mellow riffle of the water and the gentle splash of the oars. I had not experienced anything that peaceful since the last time I was out fishing. Suddenly, my fly went under and I pulled the trigger. Fighting hard on the end of my line was a gorgeous rainbow. That experience is what the sport is about to me. Fly fishing is my release from my everyday life. I enjoy school, but sitting inside all day can be difficult. I do participate in Student Council and National Honor Society that provide me with an activity at school that doesn’t directly involve academic work. However, rarely do they present the opportunity to be active. Basketball and tennis take care of physical activity for me. There is a special feeling playing basketball in the Tiger Dome. The squeak of shoes on the hardwood floor and the distinct smell of the old gymnasium give it a unique identity in my mind. Even so, I can escape the indoors out on the tennis courts. The rich blue and deep green courts are only across the street from the high school; sometimes I just need to get away from that place. One outlet of

Fine FishingBy Shea Claflin

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mine is the St. Thomas More Hospital. There I spend time in the Emergency Room performing tasks at the nurses’ and doctors’ request. As much satisfaction that I find in these activities, I crave more. Fly fishing gives me that little “more” that I long for. A short trip up Highway 50 takes me further away from the grind than just a few miles. It puts me in a simpler place that is vast compared to my little life. There I can revel in the brilliant river and the gorgeous fish inside of it. Casting, mending, and catching are soothing, almost therapeutic actions to me. It may sound like a separate world, but I am fortunate to have an opportunity to include fishing in my life in an “everyday” sort of fashion. Luckily, my freshman year at high school was the founding year of the Tiger Fly Fishing Club. As the club developed, it took on different levels of possible involvement. Now, meetings are held every first and third Thursday of each month. There is the wall of fame for pictures of fish that we’ve caught and flies that we’ve tied. Members have a reason for some competition, too. The club has a t-shirt system to signify what accomplishments that members have made. The t-shirts have our logo on the front, and a list of color-coded achievements on the back. A black shirt represents a fish caught on a fly rod, a green shirt means a fish caught on a self-tied fly, a gray denotes a twenty inch trout, and a gold indicates a grand slam—catch four species of trout. (I currently own a black and a green shirt.) The Tiger Fly Fishing Club’s sponsors provide members with excellent opportunities to enjoy the sport. We have held several casting sessions in the school gym during lunch to practice technique. Thanks to the club’s multiple rods and a Velcro fish set, all members can enjoy a break in the tedious school day to hear some professional insight on casting. The club has organized several trips to the Arkansas to do some actual fishing as well. A handful of times, we were able to hitch a ride with the biology classes to the river to get our feet wet during class time. Additionally, there have been events where we fish as a group, and tailgate together to enjoy some pizza. The club offers me opportunities to get out and fish when I otherwise would not be able to on my own. Participating in the Tiger Fly Fishing Club also has an educational value. Through our sponsors’ guidance and even outside presenters, I’ve gained

a vast amount of knowledge. By simply attending a meeting, I pick up terminology that meant nothing to me before. I’ve learned about everything from the caddis hatch in the summer to how to determine the water quality from insects in the river. During one outing, we watched Colorado Parks and Wildlife electroshock fish through Cañon City to determine trout populations. That was easily one of the most interesting processes I’ve witnessed. Through the club I have also started to master the art of fly tying. Actually, so far I can only manage to fashion some mangy-looking patterns, but I’m developing that ability. The club has taught me more than just knowledge or skill sets. During club trips I spend time with students I met through the club, allowing me to build new friendships. Outdoors is the ideal place for these newfound relationships to grow with ease. I met a close friend of mine through the club, which helped to teach me the importance of companionship. I have been co-president of the club during my junior and senior years. Through organizing meetings, outings, and events, I’ve acquired valuable leadership skills: communication, initiative, and commitment. The combination of fly fishing and being part of an organization centered on the sport has not only been enjoyable, but it has been an enriching experience, too. While I am out on the river, losing my sense of real time is not difficult to do. It seems that the only clock ticking is the fly flicking back and forth on the end of my line. Nothing else is as real as the cold water rippling by. The only thoughts occupying my mind are about the beauty surrounding me; my deepest concern is simply whether or not a trout will take my fly drifting along with the current. I often think to myself, “This is how it should be all the time.” Thanks to my involvement with the Tiger Fly Fishing Club, I can incorporate that feeling into my every lifestyle. Whether it be making a small excursion to the river walk or chatting with my fellow members during a meeting, the club has opened new doors for me in this sport. Hooking a nice trout is the goal, but ultimately I’ve caught much more than that throughout my fly fishing experiences.

Shea Claflin is one of the Spring 2015 recipients of The Fremont Explorer Scholarship Fund for high school seniors. He plans to attend a college in Colorado in the fall.


Nestled down in the banana belt of South-Central Colorado lies a true mecca for outdoor recreation. The Royal Gorge Region, encompassing a vast territory, offers not only unparalleled public access for anglers, but also some of the finest trout streams, lakes and rivers in North America.

Running as the lifeline to Southern Colorado, the mighty Arkansas River sets the tone for the entire region. Boasting the most fish per mile of any trout river in Colorado over a 50 plus mile span, the Arkansas offers anglers a true world-class fly-fishing experience. In January of 2014 the 102 miles of the Arkansas was designated a Gold Medal Trout Fishery, from Cañon City to just shy of Leadville. The Gold Medal Designation is the highest quality achievement a watershed can attain, and this 102 mile span on the Arkansas makes it the longest Gold Medal Designation in North America. In order to receive a Gold Medal Designation, a body of water must consistently support a minimum trout standing stock of 60 pounds per acre, as well as consistently support a minimum average of 12 quality trout – trout larger than 14 inches – per acre. The Arkansas shattered those requirements with an average of 170.3 pounds per acre, and 75 trout larger than 14 inches-per acre

Bighorn Sheep Canyon of the Arkansas, just west of Cañon City offers anglers one of the most picturesque fly fishing landscapes in the Southern Rockies, with a rugged and gradient river running through it. Truly prolific aquatic insect hatches are what have famed the “Ark” one of the best dry fly rivers in the state. The starting gun fires in the early spring with the great BWO and Caddis activity, continuing into the Summer with a Stonefly, PMD and Red Quill hatches. Walk wading the Arkansas will be productive through the spring and after runoff in early June through the fall. With over 40 miles of public access from Cañon City through Salida, the Arkansas is a true gem for anglers who like to explore new water and fish in solitude. Don’t forget the Arkansas Riverwalk through Cañon City, with over 6 miles of public access on the south side of the river. Some of the biggest fish in the “Ark” will be caught in town every year!

Small remote creeks and high lakes boasting large trout populations and few people are also what the Cañon City and Royal Gorge Region are known for. A variety of creeks within 1 hour of Cañon City including but not limited to Grape Creek, Badger Creek, 4 Mile Creek, Beaver Creek, Cottonwood Creek, and Chalk Creek offer anglers true solitude and non stop action. These creeks are full of 8”-15” Browns, Rainbows, Brook Trout and even some Cutthroat. Along with variety of trout species comes

Fly Fishing the

Royal Gorge RegionVariety, Quality, and Pure Colorado

By Taylor Edrington



variety in hatches and aquatic invertebrates. Most of these creeks are extremely healthy spring creeks with vast bug populations including Stoneflies, Salmonflies, Caddis, and a variety of Mayflies. Walking these creeks with a short flyrod and a handful of dry flies will be very rewarding for anglers. Also, multiple day trips are perfect for most of these fisheries. High lakes, of which there are too many to name, within an hour of Cañon City; can also offer great opportunities and productive days on the water. These lakes are best approached with a variety of mindsets, based on weather and season, but typically can be great dry fly and streamer fisheries.

An hour from Cañon City, lies South Park which is home to 3 gold medal tailwater sections of the South Platte and Spinney, Elevenmile and Antero Reservoirs; all of which can offer an angler great number days and the chance at big trophy trout. These fisheries will be most productive from the months of May through September, when flows are high and the reservoirs are full. Expect big Callibaetis, Damselfly, and Dragonfly hatches on the reservoirs, which will get fish in a true feeding frenzy. The river sections will offer a more classic trout stream setting, with good Tan Caddis, Mayfly and Trico hatches in the summer.

All in all, the Cañon City and Royal Gorge Region lies right in the middle of the fly fishing mecca of Colorado. You could be on the Arkansas River in Cañon City in 5 minutes or on a remote high mountain lake in less than an hour; and with hundreds of miles of public creek and river access, the fun is truly never ending!


Qand

AName: Origin: How long have you lived here?John Kazanchy New Jersey 10 years

Activities you enjoy the most? Favorite Spot? Hiking and rock climbing On top of any mountain

Favorite Trail?Beaver Creek Loop Trail. I consider it a true gem...not many people frequent it.

What keeps you here?The outdoor activities, weather, close proximity to many great spots in the westand great people.


Colorado is a beautiful place with countless adventures in store. Growing up here I was exposed to many wonderful outdoor activities. I find so much joy in being outside in the Colorado wilderness. Whether it’s hiking, camping, rafting, rock climbing, or any other activity, the best part to me is being outside. Being wilderness aware is necessary if you want to be safe in the back country. This awareness requires you to consider worse case scenarios. Feeling strong mentally and physically is an important safety precaution. Injury and weakness can become a hindrance to the activities I love. Also some of these activities are hard on the body. When you play hard sometimes you suffer a little for it. I have also spent some time over the years trying to “train” for our play time, because being in shape allows me to enjoy these activities more.

Over the years I have had an on and off love affair with yoga. It started when I was a teenager in Boulder. I went to a few classes here and there. I was a competitive soccer player and swimmer at the time and did a lot of running, backpacking and hiking. In class I was the least flexible person a lot of the time. In fact the first time my friend suggested I come to a class I said “ I can’t even touch my toes, I can’t do yoga!”. She giggled, and told me to come anyway. At my first class I noticed that touching my toes was hardly the point. This kind of stretching and strengthening at the same time was unlike any training I had done up to this point. We always did some stretching for soccer or swim team, but nothing like this. After that I would practice for a period of time and then get busy, or distracted by other activities, and stop. I did this off and on dance for years. Every time I came back to yoga, I would think “why did I ever stop?”.

After receiving a less than ideal bill of health, I came back again to the practice of yoga. I was looking for ways to lose weight, get healthy, and heal old injuries. This time I had serious motivation. I needed to lose a certain amount of weight and improve my general health, and quick. If not, there would be consequences I was not willing to face. I cleaned up my diet, started running again, and worked out whenever I could. I began practicing yoga more than I ever had before. With a regular practice, I started to see different benefits. I also started to really like the practice. It was the most enjoyable indoor workout I was doing. I was amazed at how much of a workout yoga could be. I still couldn’t touch my toes, or do what the other yogi’s were doing. I found out I could either do a more gentle class and relax, or take a harder class and really sweat. I felt like I was faking my way through the practice, but I kept going. My teachers kept saying “wherever you are is perfect, do what you can do, it’s your yoga practice.” The competitive side of me was not convinced, but, as they say, “when in Rome”. Then something strange and unexpected happened. Yoga was not getting easier, but other things were. I was losing weight and my health was improving, even the doctor was impressed with my progress.

I noticed a difference in my self that year when we went rock climbing. I love this activity. It is a great workout and so much fun to do. Over the years my left side has suffered some injuries. The result was limited range of motion in my joints. This made it hard to support myself on the left. These injuries had always effected my climbing in the past. Certain moves were hard or even impossible. I was pleasantly surprised that day at how much had changed. I had more strength, better range of motion, and I did not fatigue as easily. I also noticed I had better control of my breath, and that allowed me to stay calm and focused when I was on the sharp end

Yogaby Robin Beals


(lead climbing). For the first time I could mantle with my left hand down and do stemming moves without my hip cramping. I got to do more runs in a day, and try harder routes than I had ever done before.

Then my husband and I went rafting. It was the first trip of the year. He is a Raft Guide, and I do my best to keep up. In the past I could not help him lift a boat with out assistance from other people (or what they call two pointing a boat). I thought, “lets see how heavy this boat seems now”. So we counted to three, and with determination, I lifted my end of the boat. It was so easy it surprised me. If you have never carried a white water raft, believe me they fairly heavy. After our run down the Royal Gorge section of the Arkansas, I felt great. I was usually so sore from paddling and the general rafting experience. Especially through my core. This time I had the strength and energy for rafting I had lacked in the past. I also found it easier to stay calm in the class 4 rapids. My mind was calm and I was able to keep my breath steady.

At this point I was convinced that Yoga would always be a part of my physical fitness practice. I also began to realize there was so much more to yoga. I was learning about my mind and my body. It was as if someone had handed me a handbook for my own body and some troubleshooting advice to deal with the mind. When I went to yoga teacher training, I did it because I wanted to encourage the practice of yoga in Cañon City, and deepen my own practice. I have discovered so many advantages that come from this practice, I wanted to share them with my community. There are so many active people in Fremont County that could benefit from yoga. Yoga can also help you heal the body so you can become more active if you are injured or ill. A regular practice can offer many benefits, but don’t take my word for it, get out there and practice! I recommend trying as many teachers as you can; each one has something wonderful and different to offer. The practice of yoga is very diverse, it can be a hard workout or a wonderful restorative stretching class. It all depends on the studio and the teacher. It is a practice that can be accessible to anyone. Trust me, even if you can’t touch your toes you can still practice.

“True yoga is not about the shape of your body, but the shape of your life. Yoga is not to be performed; yoga is to be lived. Yoga doesn’t care about what you have been; yoga cares about the person you are becoming. Yoga is designed for a vast and profound purpose, and for it to be truly called yoga, its essence must be embodied.” ~ Aadil Palkhivala

“Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured.” ~B.K.S. Iyengar

Namaste,Robin Bealsco-owner of River Lotus YogaRYT 500, CMT

Robin can usually be found in her yoga or massage studio. She spends her free time rock climbing throughout Fremont County, hiking the trails in Cañon City, playing music, and hanging out with her family. When she is not enjoying the outdoors, you can find her drinking tea on her porch (which parallels the Arkansas River - a place she spends a lot of time on during the summer).


Salon De Cheveux is a full service salon and spa in the heart of Historic Downtown Canon City, where guests can enjoy a relaxed and positive atmosphere. Since opening in April of 2010, Salon De Cheveux has been serving the needs of locals and tourists alike, with services such as facials, pedicures, manicures, gel polish manicures, massage, hair services, make up services, and several full product lines. Our service team is one of the best in town. We are a higher learning salon, which means that not only are we continuing our education, but we also educate guests while they are in our chair regarding everything from hair care to the tools we use. After service care is an important part of any service received here, as it will help you to maintain the results of your services in between visits.

downtown Cañon City at nightphoto courtesy of Spencer


Qand

AName:Grant Emmerson Origin: Born and raised in Cañon City.

How long have you lived here?I’m 33 and except for 5 years up in Fort Collins for college I have been here.

Activities you enjoy the most?Film making, guitar, drawing, hiking/walks, running, weight lifting and spending time with my family.

Favorite Spot?The riverwalk is pretty great. It’s an obvious answer but it is just a great place to go and have a good time without having to pay for anything.

Favorite Trail?Eco park/BLM trail!

Hidden Gem? The entire county itself is a hidden gem. There is so much potential here! It is easy to forget or allow all the untapped resources we have here to fade into the background. I do not know why the powers that be do not let more happen or promote other things better. But that just means we as it’s citizens have to be more creative in organizing and growth in Cañon City.

What keeps you here?Family and friends. And the journey to make Cañon City a better place to be for my friends and family.


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The Fremont Explorer - Colorado - Spring 2015