POWDER MOUNTAIN, SNOWBASIN AND WOLF CREEK SKI AREA WINTER EVENTS LINEUP

SNOW KITING, AVALANCHE TRAINING AND SOAPBOX DERBY OFFER LEARNING AND ENTERTAINMENT

NORTHERN UTAH’S THREE RESORTS OFFER FULL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

(Ogden Valley, UT) The 2008 – 2009 Winter Ski Season will be off to its start in a matter of weeks and the three area ski resorts are offering a full slate of activities to enjoy.

November 22: Anticipated Opening of Powder Mountain (801) 745-3772 or www.powdermountain.com.

November 27 (Thanksgiving Day): Anticipated Opening of Snowbasin Resort. Celebrate Thanksgiving at Snowbasin with a fabulous feast with all the trimmings. Dinner served will be served from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. - $48 pp. Reservations required. (801) 620-1000 or www.snowbasin.com.

November 28: Anticipated Opening of Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort (801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php.


WINTER EVENTS SCHEDULE – 2008-2009 SEASON


December 11: Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: Utah Winter Games Race Clinic 6 p.m. (801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php.

December 16, 17, 18: Snowbasin Resort: Avalanche Training Class Level 1: During this three day course students can expect to develop a good grounding on how to prepare for and carry out a trip, understand basic decision making while in avalanche terrain, and understanding of avalanches, as well as rescue techniques on how to find and dig up a buried partner. $210 including lift ticket. (801) 620-1017 for more information

December 24 – Snowbasin Resort: Christmas Eve Celebration: Enjoy your Christmas Eve meal in the warmth of Earl’s Lodge and join in the excitement of waiting and watching for the arrival of Santa Claus, and the fascination of the skiing torchlight parade. The Plaza Christmas tree lighting accompanied by caroling will place the spirit of Christmas in everyone’s hearts. The Grizzly Shop will be open for last minute shopping. Families will delight at Rudolph’s fireworks display.
4 – 8 p.m. on the Main Plaza. (801) 620-1000 for more information.

December 31 – Powder Mountain: New Years Eve Skiing Party. Celebrate New Years on the slopes. The hours at Sundown Lift will be extended for this special night. Bonfire, music and fun. Night lift pass will be required. (801)-745-3772 for more information.

January 6 Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort. Snowbasin Race Team Ski-a-Thon from 4 – 8 p.m. (801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php.

January 6, 13 & 30 Powder Mountain: SheSkis Program. Sign up for the three week clinic or just try it out for a day. The day long clinic is for women, taught by women. Women ages 18 and older of all abilities from beginners to experts are invited. Women instructors match participants with similar abilities together to spend a day on the slopes perfecting their skills. www.powdermountain.com/lessons_womens.php or (801) 745-3772.

January 7 & 21 Powder Mountain: Night Jam. Park Jam and party under the lights at Sundown Lift. Park Jam without the hassle of registration and judging. Live music, bonfire, prizes, fun and friends. 4 - 9 p.m. Free with valid lift pass. www.powdermountain.com/mtn_terrainparks

January 10, 2009 Snowbasin Resort: Winter Trails Day. Now in its 14th year, this event offers children and adults new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing and or cross-country skiing for free as part of the Snow Sports Industries’ Winter Feels Good initiative. Free event, equipment rental available. We have the gear, you have the fun! www.winterfeelsgood.com or (801) 620-1000.

January 10 Powder Mountain: 2nd Annual Gromfest: Mini-slopestyle competition and mini-slalom race for skiers and boarders 12 years old and younger. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Sundown Lift. Free with a valid lift pass. www.powdermountain.com or (801) 745-3772

January 10, 17 & 24: Snowbasin Resort: Avalanche Training Class Level 1: During this three day course students can expect to develop a good grounding on how to prepare for and carry out a trip, understand basic decision making while in avalanche terrain, and understanding of avalanches, as well as rescue techniques on how to find and dig up a buried partner. $210 including lift ticket. (801) 620-1017 for more information

Jan. 10, 17, 24 & 31 Snowbasin Resort: Avalanche Level II Class: A six day program. that provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills. There is an emphasis on evaluating snow stability. This course is also a prerequisite for the Level III Professional Program. $400 (price includes lift ticket) (801) 620-1017 for more information

January 10 & 11 Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: Modern Ski Racing Clinic at Wolf Mountain
(801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php.

January 19 – 21 Lucky 13 Lesson Promotion: All three resorts in Ogden Valley are offering special prices on lessons for locals during the last 13 days of January. The promotion is designed to get more Utah residents enjoying winter sports. The following specials are valid from January 19 – 31 and limited to Utah residents. Reservations are required. Be sure to mention “Lucky 13” when making your reservation:

Powder Mountain: $13 off First Time Ski/Ride, Group Lessons (any level), and Private lessons. (801) 745-3772 ext 156
Snowbasin Resort: $13 class lesson, $13 Little Cat lift ticket, $13 equipment rental. (801) 620-1000
Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: $13 for one, 2-hour beginner group lesson. (801) 745-3511

January 27, February 3 & 10: Powder Mountain: SheSkis Program. Sign up for the three week clinic or just try it out for a day. The day long clinic is for women, taught by women. Women ages 18 and older of all abilities from beginners to experts are invited. Women instructors match participants with similar abilities together to spend a day on the slopes perfecting their skills. www.powdermountain.com/lessons_womens.php or (801) 745-3772.


January 28 Powder Mountain: Night Jam. Park Jam. and party under the lights at Sundown Lift. Park jam without the hassle of registration and judging. Live music, bonfire, prizes, fun and friends from 4 - 9 p.m. Free with valid lift pass. www.powdermountain.com/mtn_terrainparks or (801) 745-3772.

January 30 & 31 Powder Mountain/North Fork Park: Utah Olympics Winter Games
Powder Mountain will be the site for the alpine and snowboard races. North Fork Park will host the cross country and snowshoe competitions. www.sout.org

February 7 & 8: Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: Modern Ski Racing Clinic:
(801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php

February 7, 14, 21 & 28 Snowbasin Resort: Avalanche Level II Class: This six day program. provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills with an emphasis on evaluating snow stability. This course is also a prerequisite for the level three professional program. $400 (price includes lift ticket.) (801) 620-1017 for more information.

February 11 & 25 Powder Mountain: Night Jam. Park Jam and party under the lights at Sundown Lift. Park jam. without the hassle of registration and judging. Live music, bonfire, prizes, fun and friends from 4 - 9 p.m. Free with valid lift pass. www.powdermountain.com/mtn_terrainparks or (801) 745-3772.

February 21 & February 22: Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: USASA Border Cross Event
(801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php

February 26 Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: Utah Winter Games Ski Race. 6 p.m.
(801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php

March 3, 10 & 17 Powder Mountain: SheSkis Program. This three week clinic is for women, taught by women. Women ages 18 and older of all abilities from beginners to experts are invited. Women instructors match participants with similar abilities together to spend a day on the slopes perfecting their skills. www.powdermountain.com/lessons_womens.php (801) 745-3772.

March 4 & 25 Powder Mountain: Night Jam. Park Jam and party under the lights at Sundown Lift. Park jam without the hassle of registration and judging. Live music, bonfire, prizes, fun and friends from 4 - 9 p.m. Free with valid lift pass. www.powdermountain.com/mtn_terrainparks or (801) 745-3772

March 6 - 8 Snowbasin Resort: XTERRA Winter World Championship. The main event, the XTERRA Winter World Championship, is a uniquely XTERRA multi-sport race combining the four disciplines of ski mountaineering, mountain biking, running and snowshoeing. The race is open to both professional and amateur competitors. For more information call (801) 620-1000.

March 7 & 8 Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: USSA Master’s Race
(801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php

March 13 – 15 Powder Mountain: Superfly Open Snow Kite Festival: Introductory kite clinics, kite demos, a freestyle competition and Kitercross races as part of the US Snowkite Tour. Top of Sunrise Lift/Hidden Lake Parking area. The festival is co-sponsored by Utah Kite Addiction, Utah’s first PASA certified Snowkite School, and Best Kiteboarding. For more information go to www.superflyopen.com.

March 28 & 29 Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: Parrot Head Weekend: Celebrate the upcoming arrival of spring with all things Hawaiian and Jimmy Buffet. (801) 745-3511 or
www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php

April 4 Powder Mountain: 11th Annual Spring Session: This event is the highlight of the freestyle season. Riders and skiers of all ages compete against each other without the constraints of regular contests. Pipe jam, rail jam, barbeque, and live music turn this event into a great springtime party. Hidden Lake Halfpipe & Terrain Park from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. A Powder Mountain tradition Free with lift pass. www.powdermountain.com or (801) 745-3772.

April 4 Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort: Soapbox Derby: End of season celebration where contraptions of all sorts race for goofy prizes. Awards also given for best costume and tailgate competition. A mountain tradition! (801) 745-3511 or www.wolfcreekutah.com/the-mountain.php.

April 18 Snowbasin Resort: 9th Annual Meltdown Race This action packed event includes downhill skiing, cross-country trekking, spinning on a bike and paddling a kayak. For more information call 801-620-1000 or www.snowbasin.com

National Parks Offer Winter Fun for Visitors

Washington, DC – If you are thinking about getting away this winter, think about visiting a National Park. There are a large variety of winter activities available to visitors, and whether you want snow or sun, the National Park Service (NPS) can offer both. From Alaska to Massachusetts to the warm beaches of California and Florida, national parks offer something for everyone, anytime of the year.

“I encourage everyone to remember that National Parks aren’t only for summer vacations, but places to visit all year long,” said NPS Director
Mary A. Bomar. “The magnificent places protected by the NPS provide
incredible opportunities to experience the marvelous natural and cultural heritage of our country – year round.”

Many parks offer special programs in the winter in addition to their regular programs – the following are just a few of the many wonderful programs taking place this winter. For a more complete list of winter activities and special programs in national parks, visit http://www.nps.gov/pub_aff/winter2008/activities.htm. Visitors are encouraged to visit the NPS web site at www.nps.gov and see what other parks are offering this winter too.

De Soto National Memorial in Florida will be running its annual camp season December 15, 2007, to March 30, 2008. Camp Uzita at De Soto National
Memorial brings visitors back in time to 1539, when 650 Spanish
conquistadors came to Tampa Bay and changed the lives of its native inhabitants forever. Programs focus on the meeting of two very different cultures. Living history interpreters demonstrate Native and European arts and crafts. Children are invited out on Saturdays to learn about Native American mask painting and paint one to take home for themselves. For more information, contact the park at (941)792-0458.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. One of the most enjoyable winter activities for any national park occurs in Grand Teton with the ranger-led snowshoe hikes. These hikes take place everyday, and the park supplies visitors with classic wooden Yukon or Alaskan-style snowshoes for their outing with the ranger to explore the winter beauty of the park. Visitors learn about how the harsh conditions of winter determines which animals and plants survive here as they amble over hill and dell in search of wildlife and/or signs of wildlife. The trip eventually brings the visitors to the banks of the Snake River. For more information, contact the park at (307) 739-3300.

Death Valley National Park in California is the answer to those people who find it really difficult to enjoy the national parks because it is cold and snowy or just cold and wet. An abundance of ranger conducted activities are available at Death Valley including living history guided tours of Scotty's Castle (a 1920s mansion with all original furnishings and stories to match). In addition to ranger conducted activities the park's 3.4 million acres are available for exploration on foot or by car and/or 4x4 vehicles. With the longer winter nights, Death Valley is an excellent place to enjoy the brilliant night skys! We have some of the best and clearest skys in our country and Death Valley's dark night skys expose the
stars like few people have ever seen. If people are dreaming of the days
to come where they can hike in shorts and a light jacket and see spectacular scenery and relive the early history of the west, why wait until June, July or August- come to Death Valley and experience it during the winter! For more information, contact the park at (760) 786-3200.

The National Park Service always recommends stopping by the park’s visitor center to get the latest, most up-to-date park information. In addition, NPS reminds visitors that safety is critical, and hikers should stay on marked trails and let family members and/or friends know their whereabouts.
Remember to dress appropriately for the elements and activities you are going to engage in, and it’s always best to have plenty of water on hand (and maybe a little hot chocolate too). Parks Rangers are easily recognizable in their distinctive green and gray uniforms. Ask questions…that’s what they are there for!

ROXY ANNOUNCES DETAILS OF “COUNTRY FAIR” FESTIVITIES AT THE THIRD ANNUAL ROXY CHICKEN JAM

Public Invited to Join in on All the Fun at This Year’s Event

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – (March 12, 2007) – Roxy is pleased to announce the details of the event festivities for the Third Annual Roxy Chicken Jam, March 22-25 in Park City, Utah. The all-girl snowboard event will bring together the top pro women snowboarders from around the world to compete in slopestyle and superpipe events for a combined prize purse worth $30,000. In addition to the competition, the event will feature a unique “Country Fair” themed festival on the snow with an abundance of activities including autograph sessions, photo opportunities, fair-style games, free demos, giveaways, live music, vendors and more.

When not watching the competition, spectators can choose from a plentitude of activities in the festival area. Roxy will host a booth with autograph signings and photo opportunities with Roxy snow team riders, as well as lots of Roxy freebies. Roxy will also offer an array of free demo hardgoods including skis, snowboards, boots and bindings. Anyone who demos a Roxy Snowboard will receive a free beanie and a chance to win a Roxy Snowboard, which will be raffled off at the end of the final day of competition.

“We’re really proud to be able to sponsor an event that nurtures established and new talent in women’s snowboarding,” said Randy Hild, Senior Vice President, Roxy Marketing. “We’re excited for everyone in the community to be a part of the festivities and show their support for all of these talented riders.”

Additional event sponsors Paul Mitchell, Zumiez and Monster Energy Drink will also play a part in the event festivities. On-site in the festival area Paul Mitchell will offer complimentary hair cuts and hand massages. Zumiez will host a tent lounge and hand out tons of freebies each day. They will also sponsor the “Zumiez Best Couch Trick,” awarding a $2,000 cash prize to the rider who performs the best trick on the Zumiez couch rail on the slopestyle course on the final day of competition. Monster Energy Drink will keep the crowds energized by distributing free energy drinks in the festival area. A DJ will add the musical backdrop, entertaining the crowd with live music each day of competition.

Following the competition on Saturday, March 24, starting at 9 p.m., Roxy will host a VIP party for athletes, industry and the general public at Harry-O’s.

The Third Annual Roxy Chicken Jam is happy to have media support from “CosmoGirl!,” “FUEL TV” and “TransWorld Snowboarding.” Other sponsors include the TTR World Snowboard Tour and Park City Mountain Resort. For more information on the Third Annual Roxy Chicken Jam, visit http://www.roxy.com/events/chickenjam/2007.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT

Hardware Ranch:
March 11 * No grooming from Hardware Ranch for remainder of season.

Monte Cristo:
March 6 - 53* of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 68* at Monte Cristo Grooming completed:
March 5 - Arb*s Basin, Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to mile 52, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek March 4 - Wasatch Ridge, Arb*s Basin, Mile 52 on SR 39, Ant Flat to Rocking C March 3rd * Arb*s Basin, SR-39 March 1st * Loop February 28 * Wasatch Ridge, Millies Spring, Ant Flat to Lazy S February 26* Red Spur

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
March 11 * Sinks Area groomed, snow is mushy. Grooming season ends April 1 or before if snow melts completely.
Grooming completed:
March 11 * Sinks Trail, Swan Flat
March 10 * Amazon, Beaver Creek
March 5 - Franklin Basin, Tony Grove
Garden City - Done for the year

Wasatch Mountian:
Grooming Completed:
March 1 - Snake Creek, American Fork Canyon from Pole Line Pass February 27 * Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs Alpine Loop, Cascade Springs Road not groomed due to lack of snow Pine Canyon groomed last week, little snow near trailhead

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
March 2 * Two to four feet at upper elevations. Beware of avalanche danger. Nobletts area groomed Friday and Saturday.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
As nighttime temperatures stay cold enough, groomers will continue to work trails.

Uintah Basin:
Grooming completed:
March 3 * All trails groomed, except 191 to East McKee due to lack of snow. Snow melting rapidly.

Scofield / Joe*s Valley / Skyline Drive:
Grooming completed:
March 13 - North Skyline has 18-24* trailhead at Fairview top, last groomed February 28; Fish Creek Ridge has 18-24* and was last groomed on February 23; Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 8-12* at trailheads and 16*on top, last groomed February 28. Pondtown has dangerous hazards about three miles up from trailhead. Parts of Starvation/Tucker not groomed due to lack of snow.
March 15 - Miller*s Flat has 18-24* and last groomed March 7; Joe*s Valley has 10-12* at lower trailhead and 18-24* of Middle Mt., trail last groomed March 7.

Mt Nebo:
New snow up on the very top, but very little after Payson Lake. Nine new inches at the towers and across to the Santaquin Road. Many drifts, but entire trail was groomed this week.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
February 25 * Two to three inches at trailhead, 10 inches at Bluebell. Heavy drifts - avalanche danger is very high. Please use extreme caution. Twelve-mile is rough.

Fish Lake:
Grooming completed this past week on Fish Lake Mountain, but won*t be groomed again until more snow falls.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
March 10 - Midway, Cedar Breaks and Brian Head (no new snow on mountain and existing snow is melting) March 1 - Midway, Sage Valley, and part of Duck Creek (also know as Lava Flow run) were groomed.

Strawberry:
March 9 * Much new snow and ideal snowmobile conditions, but be aware of dangerous avalanche conditions. Grooming ends April 1.

UTAH WINTER GAMES OFFERS HOCKEY AND THE LUMBERJACK JAM

Park City, UT (March 9, 2007) -- The Utah Winter Games have two hot events on tap for this weekend.

You have a chance to learn from the pros when the Utah Grizzlies team up with the Utah Winter Games to offer two hockey clinics.

One will be at the Park City Ice Arena on Sunday afternoon. It will be divided into sessions for kids nine and under and anyone over ten.

On Monday night, Grizzlies will be on home ice for the clinic at the E Center in West Valley City. The same age divisions are in effect, but everyone attending the clinic will also get a free Grizzlies game ticket and a tour of the locker room. The clinic only costs 8-dollars to learn the finer points of hockey from both coaches and players. They do say that everyone taking part in the clinic has to bring personal helmets, gloves, elbow pads, shin guards, and a stick. The Grizzlies have 23 former players currently in the National Hockey League, so it's always possible that you can learn from someone whose name will someday be on the Stanley Cup.

And then there's the Lumberjack Jam at the Brighton Resort on Saturday morning. It's the kind of event that almost says, “If you have to ask, you probably shouldn't be there.”

SLUG Magazine promises that this will go down as a day of infamy among local riders as the skiers and snowboarders use old trees and pieces of lumber to perform terrain park tricks. They're also throwing in a beard-growing contest, which could be interesting given the ages of most of the competitors.

There will be a hatchet-throwing contest which SLUG says is especially designed for unemployed slack-jawed yokels. The prizes are no joke, though. Top riders will win cash and a new snowboard. Second and third place finishers will collect cool swag such as goggles and clothes. There will be free Red Bull for competitors. You have to wear a helmet so that if you fall off a tree, you'll just bounce.

To find out more about either the hockey or the Lumberjack jam, log on to UtahWinterGames.org.

The Utah Winter Games are the oldest and biggest amateur winter sports event in the country. They continue the legacy of 2002 in Utah by making it possible for large numbers of people of all skill levels to have a wonderful time with winter sports.
In the 2005-2006 20th anniversary season, more than three thousand people took part in 20 competitions in 15 sports and 32 instructional clinics.

The Utah Winter Games: All Ages, All Abilities, Always Fun.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT, MARCH 5

Due to recent and expected snow, reports change frequently. Please check snowut.com for updated information. Utah State Park Rangers encourage all snowmobile riders to use extreme caution and obtain an avalanche advisory before venturing into the backcountry by calling 1-800-OHV-RIDE. Be prepared with appropriate avalanche gear and training.

Hardware Ranch:
Friday night groomed north from Hardware Ranch to Strawberry Valley to Elk Valley Guard Station and the Sinks turnaround. Trail conditions are great and there is a lot of snow in the Sinks and at the ranch.

Monte Cristo:
As of March 5, 2007 there is 53* of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 68* at Monte Cristo.
Grooming has been done on the following dates and locations:
Sunday, March 5 * Arb*s Basin, Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to mile 52, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek Saturday, March 4 * Wasatch Ridge, Arb*s Basin, Mile 52 on SR 39, Ant Flat to Rocking C Friday, March 3 * Arb*s Basin, SR-39 Thursday, March 1 * Loop Wednesday, February 28 * Wasatch Ridge, Millies Spring, Ant Flat to Lazy S Monday, February 26 * Red Spur

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Lots of new snow!
Trail*s have been groomed on:
Amazon 3/2/2007
Beaver Creek 3/2/2007
Franklin Basin 3/2/2007
Garden City 3/1/2007 Most the way down
Tony Grove 3/2/2007
Sinks Trail 3/2/2007
Swan Flat 3/2/2007

Wasatch Mountain:
Grooming has been done on the following dates and locations:
Wednesday, February 28 - Snake Creek
Wednesday, February 28 - American Fork Canyon from Pole Line Pass to the narrows Tuesday, February 27 - Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs Pine Canyon was last groomed last week Cascade Springs Road has not been groomed due to lack of snow

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Upper elevations have received two to four feet of new snow in the last week or so and the riding conditions are great, however avalanche danger is high so be careful.
March 2 * 3 Nobletts

Bear River Service to Whitney:
Upwards of two feet of snow have fallen in the higher elevations since the early part of the week. Riders using highway 150 are reminded of the posted speed limit signs and the need to stay on the west side of the highway until the Christmas Meadows junction, it is prohibited to ride on the plowed highway.

Uintah Basin:
There has been no grooming done in the last week for the Uintah Basin.
This was due to a lack of snow. With the recent snowfall in the area the grooming operation will resume next week.

Scofield / Joe*s Valley / Skyline Drive:
Grooming occurred February 28 at the following locations:
North Skyline has 18-24* of snow at the trailhead at Fairview top Fish Creek Ridge has 18-24* of snow Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 8-12* of snow at the trailheads and 16*of snow on top.
Be advised that Pondtown has some marked dangerous hazards about three miles up from the trailhead. Parts of the Starvation/tucker trails have not been groomed yet due to lack of snow.
Miller*s Flat has 18-24* of snow and was last groomed February 22.
Grooming is scheduled groomed again early March.
Joe*s Valley has 10-12*of snow at the lower trailhead and 18-24* on top of Middle Mt.

Mt Nebo:
Entire trail was groomed March 1. It has been very windy and there are many drifts.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
Groomed March 2. A lot of drifting and loading on the side hills, so avalanche danger is very high. Please use extreme caution.

Fish Lake:
Monroe and Fishlake mountains were groomed last week, Beaver was not due to lack of snow.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
As of March 1, we*ve received about 18* of new snow on the mountain. Grooming conditions are much better.
March 2 Midway, Sage Valley and the Duck Creek run (also know as the Lava Flow run) March 1 Midway, Sage valley and Duck Creek Ridge February 28 Midway, Cedar Breaks, Brian Head and through to Sage Valley West boundary

Strawberry:
Lots of new snow! Avalanche conditions are very high, so be careful and don*t take any unnecessary risks.

UTAH WINTER GAMES MAKE HISTORY WITH FIRST EVER MARCH COMPETITONS

Park City, UT (March 1, 2007) – The success of this year's Utah Winter Games is shown vividly by one simple fact.

For the first time ever, the Utah Winter Games are running competitions in March. In fact, almost every Saturday in the month is booked as the Games answer the public's demand for more competitions.

This Saturday, there is a KSL Family and Friends Race at the Park City Mountain Resort so that families or just individuals can have a chance to race on the Olympic giant slalom course. The promotional material for the race says that medals will be awarded in age categories from 3 to 93.

But actually, Games officials state emphatically that if you're 94, you can still compete. Anyone who signs up gets a discounted lift ticket good for the entire day and the whole, huge mountain. Readers of “Skiing” magazine have chosen Park City Mountain Resort as the fifth best resort in all of North America, and, if you haven't been there, you should find out why.

Snow conditions are perfect at the moment as the recent storms have pushed the base depth to 60-inches at mid-mountain and 86-inches at Jupiter. Resort officials say the snow is fantastic and you can have a blast, especially since the National Weather Service says the forecast for Park City on Saturday is for a high of 40 and partly cloudy.

The Wolf Mountain Family Ski Resort is also hosting a KSL Family and Friends Race on Saturday. The resort near Eden bills itself as a family-friendly learning mountain where the goal is to ignite the passion for winter sports.

That also makes it a perfect venue for families who want to try racing each other in a fun format. There are lots of categories divided by age and gender and everyone of all skill levels is welcome.

Finish in the top three in your group, climb onto the podium, and win a medal. It's that easy. Wolf Mountain already has one of the most family-friendly lift tickets prices in the state, and when you sign up to race, you get a discount on the price of the ticket. That means a ticket will only cost $22, and you can ski all day with it.

You can find out all about signing up for these races along with competitions and clinics for the rest of the season on the website www.UtahWinterGames.org.

The website also has background information, competition results, pictures, WinterFit information, and other neat stuff.

The Utah Winter Games: All Ages, All Abilities, Always Fun.

For more information on the Utah Winter Games, please contact Christa Graff at 435-640-7921 or christa@graffpr.com or visit the Utah Winter Games web site at www.utahwintergames.org.

Powder Mountain Events Scheduled for March

Powder Mountain, Utah – (March 2, 2007) Powder Mountain has a full schedule of fun events scheduled throughout March.

Saturday, March 3rd will be the final Powder Blast Clinic of the year. The Powder Blast Clinic starts at 10am at the Snow Sports School. The clinic is only held on the two days following a snowfall of 6 or more inches. The cost of $70 includes an all area lift pass.

Wednesday, March 7 is the last in the popular 3 on 3 Team Challenge. The February event attracted 84 competitors and even more are expected for the final competition. The terrain park competition is held under the lights at the Sundown Terrain Park. Registration starts at 4:00 p.m. and is free for anyone having a lift pass. Nightly prizes are awarded and the team with the most points from the series will be awarded 2007/08 season passes. Night time lift passes are $19 for adults and $14 for children. Spectators are welcome.

Powder Mountain has reactivated its alpine race team and to celebrate locals are invited to compete in Snow Bash 2007 on Saturday, March 10. The alpine race on Mainline and Dilly Dally Alley is a fundraiser for the 2007/08 activities of the Powder Mountain Race Team. Registration opens at 8:00am in Hidden Lake Lodge. The cost of $25 includes an all day lift pass. Season pass holders can compete for $15. More information is available by emailing snowbash2007@yahoo.com.

The Snow Sports School is sponsoring year-end parties for anyone that was enrolled in SheSkis or PowderKids during the year. The SheSki party on March 20 features an après ski party in the PowderKeg. The PowderKid celebration on March 24th includes races, food and fun.

Annual Spring Session, Powder Mountain’s final competition of the season, is scheduled for Saturday, March 31st. The jam will take place at the Hidden Lake half pipe and terrain park from 10:00am – 3:00pm.

Anyone with a Powder Mountain lift pass is invited to participate in the Spring Session, even novices on the half pipe. The whole focus of the event is to show that the Hidden Lake terrain park offers fun for the whole family.

A barbecue, music by Sallad Productions and demos will enhance the party atmosphere. Prize sponsors include Rockstar, OGIO, APX and Decade.

The terrain park on Hidden Lake trail has been expanded to 10 features this season. The most popular features include a Giant Wall Ride provided by APX, and the new 42 foot “S” box and the 40 foot flat box.

Those that would like to watch the action without skiing or boarding to the site, can catch a snowcat at the main lodge at 8:30 am. Spectators will be returned to the lodge at 3:00pm. A lift ticket is required for the snowcat transportation.

Utah State Parks Snowmobile Grooming Report - February 27

Due to recent and expected snow, reports change frequently. Please check snowut.com for updated information. Utah State Park Rangers encourage all snowmobile riders to use extreme caution and obtain an avalanche advisory before venturing into the backcountry by calling 1-800-OHV-RIDE. Be prepared with appropriate avalanche gear and training.

Hardware Ranch
Snow is falling. Conditions improve past Rock Creek and into higher elevations. Bear Lake groomed to Temple Canyon and back on Sinks Trail, and reported new snow.

There is little accumulation from Hardware Ranch to Rock Creek. It has been impossible to get out of the Ranch to groom at high elevations * remain on standby pending snow.

Monte Cristo
No new report

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon
Much new snow and more coming.

Grooming completed:
February 23 * Amazon, Beaver Creek, Garden City (half-way), Sinks Trail, Swan Flat February 21 * Franklin Basin Tony Grove * No Grooming

Grooming schedule:
February 24 * Amazon, Beaver Creek
February 26 - Franklin Basin
February 25 * Sinks Trail, Swan Flat, Garden City (half-way) Tony Grove * No grooming

Wasatch Mountain
No new report

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow
Three to four feet of new snow and still snowing. Check website for grooming schedule.

Bear River Service to Whitney
Groomers dealing with drifts and new snow. Riding conditions are much improved, however, avalanche hazard has increased dramatically.

Uintah Basin
No new report


Scofield/Joe*s Valley/Skyline Drive
February 24 - North Skyline, 18-24* at trailhead Fairview top. The trail was last groomed February 28 * North Skyline, Fish Creek Ridge with 18-24* of snow, Tucker / Starvation/Pondtown with 8-12* at trailheads and 16* on top. Pondtown has marked dangerous hazards about 3 miles up from the trailhead.
February 22 - Miller*s Flat has 18-24*, Joe*s Valley has 10-12*of snow at the lower trailhead and 18-24*at top of Middle Mt.

Mt. Nebo
Grooming completed February 23 and new snow on the mountain, with at least a foot on top. Grooming completed from Payson side and up to the towers. Be careful around the bend in the road by the towers due to avalanche possibilities.

Ephraim/Manti/12-Mile
No new report

Fish Lake
No new report

Cedar Mountain/East Fork
February 27 - 8* of new snow
Grooming completed February 26 at Midway and Cedar Breaks. High winds and blizzard conditions possible.

Strawberry
No new report

SEVERE AVALANCHE DANGER FOR SNOWMOBILERS

STATE PARKS, AVALANCHE CENTER ISSUE WEEKEND WARNING:
STAY OUT OF AVALANCHE AREAS

Salt Lake City -- Due to recent and continued heavy snowfall, Utah State Parks and Recreation, Utah Avalanche Forecast Center and Utah Snowmobile Association are urging snowmobilers to stay out of avalanche areas, and stay on groomed trails and flat terrain this weekend.

"With the expected heavy snow falling on unstable layers, we are encouraging snowmobilers to call ahead for grooming and avalanche conditions, stay on the trail, and avoid high marking this weekend," said Ann Evans, Utah State Parks off-highway vehicle education coordinator. Evans reported three Utah snowmobilers died in avalanches last weekend.

Snowmobilers venturing out this weekend should follow these lifesaving tips:

Call 1-800-OHV-RIDE for avalanche conditions Avoid highmarking Avoid off-trail use Carry a beacon, probe, shovel, and a first aid kit Share your itinerary with someone not on your trip Call (801) 231-2170 for avalanche training

Utah State Parks and Recreation is the snowmobile recreation authority for the state of Utah. The agency administers the summer and winter off-highway vehicle (OHV) programs including education, user compliance, trail grooming and maintenance, and search and rescue.

High Mountain Fishing

Great Ice Fishing: It's Waiting for You at Utah's High Mountain Lakes

If you're looking for a fun late-winter ice fishing trip, consider heading into Utah's "high country."

Right now is the perfect time to fish for brook trout, cutthroat trout and even some grayling at Utah's high mountain lakes.

"We have literally hundreds of small lakes and reservoirs in the Uinta Mountains - and other mountains across the state - that have great trout fisheries," says Ed Johnson, a fisheries biologist for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. "These lakes have a variety of fish, including brook trout, Colorado River and Bonneville cutthroat trout, and even grayling. Many of these lakes are accessible by snowmobiles or skis, and they can make an excellent ice fishing outing during the winter."

Johnson not only talks about fishing the high lakes: he gets out and does it himself.

"A group of us fished one of the high lakes on the northeastern corner of the Uintas in late January," Johnson says.

"First, we had great fun just getting there by snowmobile. The last few miles, we broke our own trail.

"Once on the lake, we rigged up and were catching fish within a few minutes. On this trip, our group caught three species of fish: a few rainbows, a Colorado River cutthroat and a bunch of brook trout. Some of these fish were up to two pounds."

"We mostly used small, light-colored jigs tipped with a meal worm or a piece of night crawler," Johnson says. "I think the bait was probably more important than the size or the color of the jig. The placement of the hole made a difference too. Some of us had fish right off, while others had to drill a few holes before finding a good spot."

Johnson has a few tips for the adventurous anglers heading to these high mountain lakes.

"Take the time to get everything ready, so you go prepared." Johnson says. "This includes your equipment, as well as food, proper clothing and emergency supplies for yourself.

"Also, don't forget to make sure that your transportation is in good working order, and let someone at home know where you are going and when you should be back. On our last trip, we had two snowmobiles break down. Fortunately we had a good mechanic [with us] who was able to quickly replace the belts and get the snowmobiles back on the trail.

"Ice fishing should also be fun," Johnson says. "That means staying warm, so bring good boots and layers of warm clothing. Having a warm drink or food can also add to your enjoyment. Our group brought thermos bottles of warm drinks and a couple of small, portable butane stoves to heat up cans of soup."

Finally, remember that when the first person in your party starts to get cold, it's time to leave.

"It's better to leave early than risk being cold in the mountains," Johnson says. "I've taken my kids on trips like this, and it's better to leave while they are still having fun rather than stretching it out just to catch a few more fish.

"If they remember the fun rather than the agony, they will be much more willing to go out again."

For more information about fishing Utah's high mountain lakes, contact the nearest Division of Wildlife Resources office or the DWR's Salt Lake City office at (801) 538-4700.

UTAH WINTER GAMES AREN’T WORTH DYING OVER BUT DON’T TELL RUSSELL BAKER!

Park City, UT (February 14, 2007) -- Many sorts of organizations couldn't function without the crucial contributions of volunteers, and it's a truism that volunteers often give their hearts to the causes they put their time into. In the case of Utah Winter Games volunteer Russell Baker; he almost literally gave his heart to the cause of amateur winter sports.

Russ had a constricted coronary artery and was scheduled for angioplasty, a medical treatment which involves the mechanical widening of the artery so it can move blood freely away from the heart. While it is considered minimally invasive, it still involves hospitalization. Without any treatment, of course, he could have died of a heart attack at any moment.

Only Russell didn't let that get in the way of his volunteer assignments with the Utah Winter Games.

He had chest pains around New Year's and doctors scheduled the angioplasty for Monday, January 15th. Russ is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Games and has enjoyed being a part of the nation's oldest and largest Winter Games for eight years. He also takes his position seriously enough that he says he had no intention of taking time off from his volunteer position.

Two days before his operation, he oversaw the organization and registration of 140 ski racers at Alta. He said he was there because he just didn't want to let down Alta's veteran marketing director Connie Marshall, who is also an enthusiastic supporter of the Games. She would have had to register the racers without him if he had stayed home and he didn't want to stick her with that much work. His wife forced his only concession to his health that day by insisting that he leave his skis at home so he wouldn't be tempted to carve a few turns against doctor's orders.

Russ' operation came out successfully and he spent only one night in the hospital. It's certain that no one would have faulted him if he had stayed home for a while to recover. After all, he had three stents inserted in his artery. Instead, four days after surgery, he was at Soldier Hollow to oversee a big day of events in cross-country and biathlon with 200 competitors. He explained rather lamely that he was at Soldier Hollow because they needed his computer. Then he adjusted that to admit that he was somewhat embarrassed that he was several volunteers short and felt the only way to cover the problem was to get out there himself and get involved.

Russ likes to get involved. His “day job” is as a computer-aided designer for military sonar systems. His “night job” is in a small woodworking shop he owns. He's also a Scoutmaster and a range master for the Lee Kay Center for Hunter Education in all of that free time he has.

So why is he so enthusiastic about helping the Utah Winter Games? It's simple, he says, “I love to race.” He used to ski race in the old Coca-Cola Cup series. When that went belly-up, he turned to racing in the Utah Winter Games. After enough racing, he felt it was time to give back something positive to an organization that had given him so many good times.

UWG's Executive Director Heidi Hughes says she was astonished and humbled at what Russ had done for the Games while he was facing a potential heart attack. She laughs that she would have been more than happy to give him the day off. Russ shrugs and says with a smile, “You gotta have heart.”

The Utah Winter Games are the oldest and biggest amateur winter sports event in the country. They continue the legacy of 2002 in Utah by making it possible for large numbers of people of all skill levels to have a wonderful time with winter sports.
In the 2005-2006 20th anniversary season, more than three thousand people took part in 20 competitions in 15 sports and 32 instructional clinics.

The Utah Winter Games: All Ages, All Abilities, Always Fun.

For more information on the Utah Winter Games, please contact Christa Graff at 435-640-7921 or christa@graffpr.com or visit the Utah Winter Games web site at www.utahwintergames.org.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT - FEBRUARY 12

Hardware Ranch:
February 8: South from SR 89 in Logan Canyon to top of Rock Creek where mud begins, approximately three miles north of Ranch. Returned to Logan Canyon Road Shed via Strawberry Valley. Snow was heavy and wet, not good conditions. No grooming until new snow falls.

Monte Cristo:
February 12: 42" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 52" at Monte Cristo Grooming completed:
February 11: Arb's Basin and Wasatch Ridge February 10: Wasatch Ridge and Arb's Basin February 8: Red Spur February 7: Wasatch Ridge, Arb's Basin February 5: SR39

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
February 8: From Sinks to as close to Hardware Ranch as possible before lack of snow.
Grooming Completed:
February 9: Swan Flat
February 8: Sinks Trail
February 5: Amazon, Beaver Creek, Franklin Basin, Garden City, Tony Grove

Wasatch Mountain:
Regular grooming runs made Monday through Wednesday, other grooming canceled until new snow falls. Snake Creek remains open, but is extremely slushy and melting quickly at trailhead. Asphalt showing at Pine Canyon and Pine Hollow in American Fork Canyon.

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Snow conditions are poor. Groomed trails have snow, but it's melting quickly. Wolf Creek Highway toward Nobletts Trailhead has areas of asphalt.
Sno-cat will be moved from North Fork to Soapstone Trailhead due to lack of snow. February 10 grooming run canceled.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
Overnight temperatures are just barely cold enough to groom.

Uintah Basin:
No new report.

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
No significant snowfall in the last two weeks. Both Skyline Drive and Miller's Flat have seen little use. Grooming operations suspended until more snow falls.

Mt Nebo:
No new report.

Ephraim / Manti /12-mile:
No new report.

Fish Lake:
No new report.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
Grooming suspended, no new snow.

Strawberry:
No new report.

CROSS-COUNTRY TRAILS CLOSE AT WASATCH MOUNTAIN, PREP FOR EARLY SEASON GOLF

Midway - Due to lack of snow and warm temperatures, cross-country ski trails at Wasatch Mountain State Park are closed for the season. Ski areas at Soldier Hollow and along Mirror Lake Highway remain open.

Because of the mild winter, park managers are hoping for an early spring opening at Wasatch Mountain and Soldier Hollow golf courses. Wasatch Mountain State Park hosts many events throughout the year, including naturalist programs and Junior Ranger activities. For more information, please call (435) 654-1791.

REI Community Calendar Announcements For February

SANDY CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Sandy City REI store. REI is located at 10600 South & 230 West in the northwest corner of the South Towne Mall property. For more information, please call (801) 501-0850 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link. Attendance is limited to fifty participants on a first- come first- served basis.

WINTER BIKE MAINTENANCE

Thursday, February 1st, 7pm

Whether you ride all winter or hang up the wheels to hit the slopes, come learn about maintaining your bicycle during those "off" months. We will discuss how to treat a bike well during winter's harsh riding conditions, how to get a bike off the trainer and back onto the road, and how to bring a bike out of storage for those warmer days. Our discussion will be lead by an REI expert who knows his way around the winter roads as a full time commuter and will discuss both maintenance ideas and the tools every cyclist should consider. Whatever your cycling season, we can help keep your cycling enjoyable.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: INTRO TO AVALANCHE AWARENESS

Thursday, February 8th, 7pm

The Wasatch Front is home to some of the world's finest winter backcountry terrain. But the rise in popularity of backcountry skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling comes with an increased risk in avalanche danger. In this evening's presentation, a local avalanche professional will tell their story about close calls or accidents they have experienced in the backcountry and show a narrated video of avalanches, people triggering avalanches and the destructive power of avalanches. This presentation will then focus on instruction on the basics of how to recognize avalanche terrain & obvious signs of instability, safe travel practices, basics of avalanche rescue equipment and self-rescue procedures, and where to obtain information about current avalanche conditions. The Know Before You Go avalanche education program is an all ages and family event presented by experts from the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center. This lecture always fills to capacity, so please arrive early to ensure that you get a seat.

GPS 101

Thursday, February 15th, 7pm

A Global Positioning System is a fun and accurate tool that can help you navigate through backcountry terrain or even down city streets. Join REI navigation expert Dan Stites as he unveils the mysteries of this fun and fascinating piece of technology. This presentation will cover basic GPS functions such as determining latitude and longitude, programming routes, and recording travel.

TRIATHLON 101

Thursday, February 22nd, 7pm

Calling all prospective triathletes! Join David Pruetz, USA Triathlon Certified Coach, Ironman Triathlete, owner/coach with In Training LLC, this evening for an introduction to the sport. This clinic is intended for anyone interested in getting involved in the sport of triathlon and will cover the evolution of triathlon, equipment needs, nutritional needs, triathlon training programs/process, open-water swimming vs. pool swimming, transition training, race categories, race distances, and much, much more!

SALT LAKE CITY - The following presentations are offered free of charge to the public at the Salt Lake City REI store. REI is located at 3285 East & 3300 South. For more information, please call 486-2100 or visit our website at www.rei.com and click on the stores & events link and select Salt Lake City.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: INTRO TO AVALANCHE AWARENESS

Tuesday, February 6th, 7pm

The Wasatch Front is home to some of the world's finest winter backcountry terrain. But the rise in popularity of backcountry skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling comes with an increased risk in avalanche danger. In this evening's presentation, a local avalanche professional will tell their story about close calls or accidents they have experienced in the backcountry and show a narrated video of avalanches, people triggering avalanches and the destructive power of avalanches. This presentation will then focus on instruction on the basics of how to recognize avalanche terrain & obvious signs of instability, safe travel practices, basics of avalanche rescue equipment and self-rescue procedures, and where to obtain information about current avalanche conditions. The Know Before You Go avalanche education program is an all ages and family event presented by experts from the Utah Avalanche Forecast Center. This lecture always fills to capacity, so please arrive early to ensure that you get a seat.

SKI MOUNTAINEERING IN NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTHERN ALPS

Tuesday, February 13th, 7pm

The Southern Alps of New Zealand are a skier’s paradise with some of the most challenging ski mountaineering terrain on earth. Located on the bottom of the globe at forty-three degrees south and right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, they are a fusion of wild scenery, steep peaks and big drops. In October of 2006, Andrew McLean, Steve Romeo and Chris Figenshau joined Kiwi local Grant Guise for three weeks of ski mountaineering around the island’s highest peak, Mt. Cook. Along with wild skiing, the team discovered the world’s most dangerous outhouse and the reason why a NZ bee keeper would eventually go on to be the first person to summit Mt. Everest. Ski mountaineering expert Andrew McLean will present this evening’s slide show.

SKI & SNOWBOARD TUNE & WAX

Tuesday, February 20th, 7pm

Come join the ranks of do-it-yourselfers who are discovering that tuning your skis at home can not only be a great way to save your hard earned money, but one of the most gratifying hobbies you will ever undertake. Join REI shop master tech Jon Hulse this evening for some expert instruction on waxing, sharpening, and P-texing. By learning to tune your own skis and snowboards, you can ensure that your equipment will perform at its peak.

SPRING SKIING UTAH AND ALASKA

Tuesday, February 27th, 7pm

Whether in Utah or Alaska, spring is the time for big ski lines. From Foraker, Fairweather, and St. Elias; to Baldy, Tukhunikivatz and Timpanogos; let’s visit some of the classic ski lines in two great ski states. The stable snowpack and mild weather of April and May are the necessary ingredients for safely skiing major peaks. If you want to glean beta for your own ski adventures to the mountains of Utah or Alaska, or simply to be entertained by stories and images, join guidebook author and mountain guide Tyson Bradley for an evening of ski mountaineering from the Pfiefferhorn to Denali.

COMMUNITY EVENTS:

WASATCH CITIZEN SERIES AT SUNDANCE

Saturday, February 10th, 10am

Put on by the Utah Nordic Alliance. The Wasatch Citizens Series (WCS) consists of five events held each year at the major cross country ski areas along the Wasatch Front and Back. Two classical technique and three free technique races are included to provide the balance local athletes need to prepare for national and international competition. In addition to our sixteen age and gender categories, the WCS includes novice classes, to encourage beginners to get involved in the sport, and expert classes, for more serious racers. Awards are given to the top three finishers in each of these groups at each race. Points are awarded to all race finishers, and the top three skiers in each age group receive special prizes at the end of the season. Participants' ages range from 5 to 70+, and many families regularly attend the races. Please see www.utahnordic.com for more information.

THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL TOUR

Tuesday & Wednesday, February 20th & 21st, 7pm

Join the U of Utah's Outdoor Recreation Program when the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour brings the spirit of outdoor adventure to Salt Lake City at Kingsbury Hall. Experience the adventure of climbing, mountain expeditions, remote cultures, and the world’s last great wild places — all brought to life on the big screen. Different films will be screened each evening. Tickets are available at REI SLC & Sandy, Kingsbury Hall, Art-tix outlets, and the Outdoor Program for $7.50 each. Money raised will benefit the Utah Avalanche Center.

BRYCE CANYON WINTER FESTIVAL

February 17th through 19th

Every Presidents Day weekend Ruby’s Inn hosts the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival. The three-day event includes cross country ski races, a people-powered sled race, kids snowboot races, an archery clinic, archery biathlon competition, free snowshoe tours, free clinics in photography, navigation, winter safety, snow sculpture, kids' events, food, music and much more. Most of the clinics and events are free but there is an entry fee for some activities. Call 1-866-866-6616 or visit www.ruby’sinn.com for more information.

WASATCH CITIZEN SERIES AT WHITEPINE

Saturday, February 24th, 10am

Put on by the Utah Nordic Alliance. The Wasatch Citizens Series (WCS) consists of five events held each year at the major cross country ski areas along the Wasatch Front and Back. Two classical technique and three free technique races are included to provide the balance local athletes need to prepare for national and international competition. In addition to our sixteen age and gender categories, the WCS includes novice classes, to encourage beginners to get involved in the sport, and expert classes, for more serious racers. Awards are given to the top three finishers in each of these groups at each race. Points are awarded to all race finishers, and the top three skiers in each age group receive special prizes at the end of the season. Participants' ages range from 5 to 70+, and many families regularly attend the races. Please see www.utahnordic.com for more information.

CLASSES:

REI/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GPS NAVIGATION DAY

Saturday, February 17th, 9am

Spend a day outdoors and an hour indoors with navigation experts from REI and National Geographic to learn how to use your GPS unit in conjunction with mapping software. Participants should have some familiarity with GPS and/or have attended REI’s GPS 101 evening clinic. You’ll practice finding your way from point A to point B, first establishing where you are, and then where you want to go. Learn route-finding skills, such as: how to transfer waypoints from your PC to your GPS unit, how to use the U.T.M. grid system vs. latitude and longitude coordinates, and how to create your own custom maps. Classroom session takes place at REI Sandy, field session at Dimple Dell Park. Cost is $15 for REI members, $30 for non-members. Advance registration is required, please call (801) 501-0850 or stop into REI’s Sandy location.

STAY SAFE IN THE OUTDOORS; WILDERNESS FIRST AID CLASS

Saturday, February 3rd, 10th & 24th, 9am

Created for all outdoor enthusiasts, the Basic Wilderness Life Support® certification is a one day course designed to help you prevent and treat injuries and illnesses common in outdoor activities. Developed at the University of Utah, School of Medicine the course will teach you to prepare for your outing, assess injuries and scene safety, decide whether to evacuate or treat a patient, and methods of evacuation. The curriculum was developed from our advanced course used to train medical professionals and will be taught by one of our certified instructors. The course includes morning lectures at REI and an afternoon outdoors (weather permitting) participating in hands on scenarios. At the end of the day you will receive your BWLS certificate. Please register by calling REI’s customer service department at (801) 486-2100. Cost is $95 per person. For more information, please contact Bob Richards at AdventureMed, 801-990-2800 or visit www.bwls.org.

AVALANCHE AWARENESS CLASS

Friday & Saturday, February 9th & 10th

An introduction to rescue skills & avalanche beacon searches, route finding, snow pack evaluation and minimizing hazards. Cost is $99 per person. Please contact 801-550-EXUM (3986) or visit www.exum.ofutah.com for more information.

LEVEL 2 AVALANCHE COURSE

Friday February 23rd through Sunday February 25th

Review and expand upon material learned in level 1. Learn to identify snow crystal types and processes leading to them; how to record and interpret information gained from snow pits, stability tests, weather and other factors contributing to snow strength. Friday & Saturday evenings; Saturday & Sunday field classes. Cost is $225 per person. Please contact 801-550-EXUM (3986) or visit www.exum.ofutah.com for more information.

COMMUNITY GROUP MEETINGS & PRESENTATIONS

UTAH NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY: SAVING UTAH’S NATIVE PLANTS; RARE, MEDIUM RARE, AND THE RARELY RARE

Wednesday, February 7th, 7pm

The Utah Native Plant Society is dedicated to the appreciation, preservation, conservation and responsible use of the native plant and plant communities found in the state of Utah and the Intermountain West. This evening, join Tony Frates, joint chair of conservation for Utah Native Plant Society (UNPS). Utah is home to many rare and endangered plants, yet the State of Utah has essentially no laws to help protect them. In recent years, declining federal enforcement of the Endangered Species Act has left litigation as the only means to prevent irreversible loss. UNPS has been a reluctant partner in this process, joining with other organizations to try and save plants such as the beautiful Dwarf Bear-claw Poppy of southern Utah. Come and hear about recent progress in this ongoing battle for the plants. Visit www.unps.org for more information.

UTAH WHITEWATER CLUB

Thursday, February 15th, 7pm

The UWC is a small but dedicated group of enthusiastic paddlers dedicated to promoting the sport of canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Formed in Salt Lake City in 1991 by a small but persistent group of local paddlers, the UWC now has membership into the hundreds. Activities and interests of the club include instruction, safety, organized trips, river issue advocacy, and having fun. Meetings and presentations are free of charge and open to the public Check out www.utahwhitewaterclub.org for more information.

UTAH STATEWIDE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Wednesday, February 14th, 7pm

The Utah Statewide Archaeological Society (USAS) is an organization conceived for the individual who is curious about or wants to learn more about archaeology and the state’s prehistoric cultures. It is dedicated to the study and preservation of Utah’s past. Meetings and presentations are free of charge and open to the public. Visit www.utaharchaeology.org.

Utah State Parks Snowmobile Grooming Report

Hardware Ranch:

Friday, January 26: North from Ranch into Strawberry Valley and up to Hell's Hollow. From there through to Sinks and made four passes. Conditions at the Sinks are good. Back down through Strawberry and north to Elk Valley Guard Station. Back south through Strawberry to the Ranch. Trail leaving the Ranch has patches of mud for about six miles, but is decent after that. More snow needed.

Monte Cristo:
As of January 24, 2007 there is 32" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 43" at Monte Cristo.

Grooming completed:
Monday, January 22 * Ant Flat to Sheep Creek, Curtis Creek to Baxter Saw Mill, SR39 to Woodruff Gate and Wasatch Ridge Saturday, January 20 * SR 39 to Little Monte Friday, January 19 * SR 39 to Little Monte Thursday, January 18 * Ant Flat to Scare Canyon, SR-39 to Woodruff Gate Wednesday, January 17 * Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek


Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Groomer is down, no grooming last weekend.
Grooming completed:
Amazon - January 24
Beaver Creek - January 24
Franklin Basin * January 22
Garden City
Tony Grove January 22
Sinks Trail January 21
Swan Flat January 25


Wasatch Mountain:
Grooming completed:
January 26 - Snake Creek Canyon to the top of the narrows at Graveyard Flat.
January 24 - Cummings Parkway
January 22 - Alpine Loop to Sundance and Pine Hollow January 22 * Soldier Hollow Snow conditions at Tibble Fork, Pine Hollow, and Soldier Hollow are minimal. Tibble Fork and Silver Lake have not been groomed yet this year due to lack of snow.


Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Snow conditions are poor with no new snow for quite a while. Snow depths range from three feet at high elevations on north facing slopes and no snow at lower elevations and on south facing slopes. Grooming as per schedule and the trails are in great shape. Use caution. No grooming all the way down to Lakecreek due to low snow conditions. If finding a vehicle stuck on the trail, please write down a license plate and call 911. They will then notify us so we can make plans to have it removed. Remember, it is illegal to operate a wheeled vehicle in excess of 800 pounds on a groomed snowmobile trail.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
The last snowstorm dropped anywhere from 6-10" depending on elevation. Despite the dry month of January, riding conditions have remained reasonably good. All trails have been groomed and cold temperatures have helped set a good base. On February 2, the International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race will begin at the North Slope parking lot at 10 am. The race starts at the North Slope gate and ends at Deadhorse Trailhead. The north end of the trailhead will be reserved for the mushers, but plenty of parking is available to the south.

Uintah Basin:
January 18 * Entire Red Cloud Loop Complex, Dry Fork up to Leidy turnaround and out to the yurt at Summit Park, East Park to Hwy 191, other side of the Red Cloud Loop, and Taylor Mountain.
January 19 - Don Hatch Trail to Flaming Gorge Lodge, to Red Canyon Lodge and then to Deep Creek. Snow conditions are good, and better at higher elevations.

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
As of Jan 19, current snow conditions and grooming reports are as follows:
Waiting for more snow. The last storm only added two more inches of snow to most places. Depths are 55% of normal snow pack and grooming is suspended until enough snow is available.

North Skyline has 16" of snow at the trailhead at Fairview top, but snow levels are not sufficient enough to groom this trail in its entirety.
Fish Creek Ridge has 15" of snow on top of the junction, but snow levels are not sufficient enough to groom this trail in its entirety.
Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 6-8" of snow at the trailheads, and have not been groomed. Miller's Flat has 12" of snow, not groomed yet. Joe's Valley has 8-10" of snow at the lower trailhead and 15" of snow at Middle Mt. The trail is not groomed.

Mt Nebo:
Grooming was started from the Payson side and was completed as far as Devils Kitchen. There is only 3 to 4 inches of new snow from the last storm. The trail is in good shape, but there are a few more places that are starting to show pavement.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
Grooming Completed:
January 26 - Ephraim and 12-Mile canyons Riders should use extreme caution when leaving the trail as delineator post and trail markers are not covered by snow. Without a new storm 12-Mile canyon will likely not be grooming next Friday. Ephraim Canyon is also questionable due to lack of snow.

Fish Lake:
Monroe and Fishlake mountains were groomed last week. Beaver was not groomed due to lack of snow.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
January 27 * Plan to groom Midway, Cedar Breaks and Brian Head. Use caution.
As a reminder, 1.3 miles of snowmobile trail just west of Sage Valley has been plowed. The Dixie National Forest has authorized this to allow loggers in and out. Be aware of logging machinery in this area.

Strawberry:
As of January 20, there is no new snow. Please be aware of others on the trail and trail hazards, as snow levels are low.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT

Hardware Ranch:
Mechanical problems with snow cat. However, Strawberry Valley and Hell's Hollow on the Sinks road were groomed January 16.

Monte Cristo:
As of January 16 there is 34" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 43" at Monte Cristo.
Grooming has been done on the following dates and locations:
January 15 - Wasatch Ridge, Woodruff Gate, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek.
January 14 - Red Spur
January 13 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 12 - Arb's Basin, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 11 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Scare Canyon January 10 - Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to Woodruff Gate

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Trail's have been groomed on:
January 21 - Garden City
January 20 - Amazon
January 20 - Beaver Creek
January 10 - Franklin Basin
January 10 - Tony Grove
January 7 - Swan Flat
January 2 - Sinks Trail

Wasatch Mountain:
January 12 - Snake creek, Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs, American Fork Canyon to the top of the narrows. All other areas need more snow.

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Grooming activity is occurring, but not a lot of deep powder exists.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
Highway 150 and the North Slope road are groomed. Daily grooming continues

Uintah Basin:
January 19 - Don Hatch Trail to Flaming Gorge Lodge, then to Red Canyon Lodge to Deep Creek, and Summit Springs to Spirit Lake.
January 18 - Red Cloud Loop Complex, Dry Fork up to Leidy Turn around and out to the yurt at Summit Park, East Park to Highway 191, and Taylor Mountain.

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
No grooming due to lack of snow.

Mt Nebo:
January 16 - A camouflage backpack was found near Devils Kitchen on the Nephi side and rangers have it at Yuba State Park. To claim, please call (435) 758-2611.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
January 19 - Ephraim and 12-mile canyons

Fish Lake:
All three mountains have been groomed.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
January 20 - Midway, Cedar Breaks, and Brain Head.

Strawberry:
No new snow; snow conditions are hard packed and sugary. Please be careful of off trail hazards, as snow levels are low.

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

January 27 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Winter Birding Hike: Join park staff from 10 a.m. to noon for the St. George Winter Bird Festival. Go birding among lava flows and towering sandstone cliffs as we search out red-naped sapsuckers, crissal thrashers, and other wintering residents on a three-mile round-trip hike. Binoculars recommended. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

January 27 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Basic Snow Cave Class. Join park staff at 10 a.m. to learn the basics of building a snow cave. Knowing how to build a snow cave is not only fun, but also can be vital in any winter survival situation. Come dressed in layers with a waterproof shell. Meet at the Educational Yurt. For more information call (435) 654-1791.

February 1 - March 31 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Guided Snowshoe Hikes. A naturalist is available Wednesday - Saturday for guided snowshoe hikes within the park. For more information, or to schedule a hike, please call (435) 654-1791.

February 1 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Art Gallery: Antelope Island State Park staff and volunteers display their artwork and photographs in the visitor center art gallery. For more information, please call (801) 725-9263.

February 2 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Friends of Wasatch Full Moon Snowshoe Hike: Join park staff for the annual snowshoe hike under the light of the full moon. Hikes for beginners, intermediate and advanced levels are available. Members of Friends are free. $5 for non-members. Snowshoe rentals are available for $5/pair. Registration is required by calling (435) 654-1791.

February 3 Rock Cliff Nature Center/Jordanelle State Park - Francis
Track Me If You Can! Join the park naturalist from 10 a.m. to noon and learn basic tracking skills necessary to understanding local wildlife. Bring snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park. Pre-registration is required. Day-use fee is $7 per vehicle with up to eight people or free to Utah State Park pass holders. For more information call (435) 782-3030 or (435) 649-9540.

February 3 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Lava Tubes Tour: Join park staff from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., for a two-mile round-trip hike and the chance to explore the unique formations of a lava tube. Registration required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT - JANUARY 16

Current information is also available at www.snowut.com.

Hardware Ranch:
January 15 - Hardware Ranch north to Johnson's Ranch/Strawberry Valley and onto the Elk Valley Guard Station. From there, north on the cross-country pole line back to Strawberry Valley and up to the Sinks turnaround. Returned through Strawberry /Johnson's and back to Hardware Ranch. The trails are still rough coming out of the Ranch, particularly Rock Creek. However, snow is good and gets better from Johnson's and is great in Sinks area.

Monte Cristo:
As of January 16, 2007 there is 34" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 43" at Monte Cristo.
January 15 - Wasatch Ridge, Woodruff Gate, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 14 - Red Spur January 13 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 12 - Arb's Basin, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 11 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Scare Canyon January 10 - Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to Woodruff Gate

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Regular grooming schedule now underway. Good snow at higher elevations, but still hitting rocks at lower elevations.
January 10 - Amazon, Beaver Creek, Franklin Basin, Tony Grove January 7 - Sinks Trail, Swan Flat

Wasatch Mountain:
January 12 - Snake Creek, Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs, American Fork Canyon to the top of the narrows. Storm on January 11 and 12 dropped only four inches at Mill Flat Trailhead. Pine Hollow, Cascade Springs, and Tibble Fork have not been groomed due to lack of snow.

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
January 12 - Six to 12 inches have fallen. Grooming is on schedule and trails should be in great shape.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
January 11 - Three to four inches of new snow at the north slope parking lot and more is forecasted. All trails have been groomed. Riding conditions continue to improve and new snow should help.

Uintah Basin:
January 13 - Spirit Lake
January 12 - East McKee to Cart Creek to Red Cayon Lodge, then to Deep Creek parking area January 11 - Red Cloud Loop from Hwy191 turnoff to the Leidy turnaround, Dry Fork Trailhead to Trout Creek

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
January 5 - Still waiting for more snow. Some grooming completed on Skyline, but more snow needed. North Skyline has 18" of snow at the trailhead at Fairview top. Fish Creek Ridge has 15" of snow on top of the junction. Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 6-8" of snow at the trailheads and 18"of snow on top, and have not been groomed yet. Miller's Flat has 16" of snow. The trail has not been groomed yet. Snow levels are not sufficient enough to groom this trail in its entirety.

Mt Nebo:
January 10 - Grooming completed. Trail is still in need of more fresh snow.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
Ephraim and Twelve-Mile canyons, 12 - 18 inches of new powder on top of about 20 inches of old snow at the top of the trails. Ephraim Canyon has delineator posts and guard rails lining most of the main road. Riders should use extreme caution when leaving the main road. There is a logging permit issued for Manti Canyon and the permittee is plowing the road up nearly to Milky Falls, which prevents grooming until snow depths shut down the operation.

Fish Lake:
All three mountains have been groomed. Each mountain has good snow with each having some new powder. More grooming this week.


Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
January 14 - Midway, Sage Valley, and Navajo January 13 - Midway, Cedar Breaks, and Brain Head As a reminder, Dixie National Forest authorized loggers to plow Red Canyon Road for tree removal. Approximately 1.3 miles of the normal groomed trail have been plowed and could be difficult to ride.

Strawberry:
January 7 - Two inches of new snow at the DOT Shed off Hwy 40, and five inches of new snow making a total of two feet at Lake Creek Summit.
Conditions are snow blown and crusty with drifts in several areas. Please be careful off trail, due to the high wind snowdrifts. Please be advised: January 6 Co-op Creek to Lake Creek Summit back down to Strawberry River was CANCELLED due to high winds and white out conditions.

Snow Cave Class at Wasatch Mountain

Midway - Wasatch Mountain State Park hosts a Snow Cave Class at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 27. Learn the basics of building a snow cave, which is not only fun, but also vital in any winter survival situation. Participants should dress in layers with a waterproof shell, and meet at the Wasatch Mountain Educational Yurt. For more information or to register, please call (435) 654-1791.

Snowmobile Safety

Helmets, Safety, and Education are Topics of Snowmobile Safety Week


Wasatch Mountain State Park - Courtesy Utah State Parks

HELMETS, SAFETY, AND EDUCATION ARE TOPICS OF SNOWMOBILE SAFETY WEEK

Salt Lake -- Utah snowmobilers are anxiously awaiting new snow, but will are observing National Snowmobile Safety Week January 13 through 20, 2007. For this eight-day observance, and throughout Utah's snowmobile season, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Education Specialist Ann Evans is stressing helmets, safety, and education.

"We want everyone to ride safely and know the laws and rules before they go. Be educated and be prepared," said Evans. She encourages riders to check avalanche, trail and weather conditions, and share itineraries with family and friends.

Utah law requires children ages eight to 15 to complete the Utah State Parks and Recreation Know Before You Go! OHV education course before operating on public lands, roads or trails. Those 16 or older must have a valid Utah driver's license or a safety certificate to operate snowmobiles on public land. It is illegal for any child under age eight to operate an OHV on public land.

All youth under age 18 are required by law to wear helmets that are approved by the Department of Transportation while riding. Utah Department of Health (UDOH) and Utah State Parks strongly recommend that all riders wear helmets, especially parents who set the example for children and other riders.

In addition to helmets and education, Evans offers the following safety tips:

- Never ride alone. Always ride with a companion and let others know your plan.

- Watch your fuel supply carefully.

- Check the weather report and check avalanche advisories.

- Dress for changing weather conditions. Wear layered clothing to adjust for changing conditions.

- Never drink and drive.

- Always wear an approved helmet designed for motorized use. It's the law for anyone under 18 to wear their helmet at all times. Utah State Parks encourages everyone to wear a helmet.

- Know basic maintenance procedures. Carry spark plugs, drive belts, tool kit and a survival kit, which contains a map, compass, flashlight, extra food, extra clothing, sunglasses, first aid kit, pocket knife, waterproof matches, and candles or fire starters.

For registration materials, grooming reports, and avalanche conditions, call the OHV Information Center at 1-800-OHV-RIDE or 1-800-648-7433 from outside the Salt Lake area or 538-RIDE / 538-7433.

3 on 3 Team Challenge Scheduled for January 10 at Powder Mountain

Powder Mountain, Utah – (January 5, 2007) The initial event in Powder Mountain’s 3 on 3 Team Challenge Series is scheduled for January 10, 2007. The terrain park competition is held under the lights at the Sundown Terrain Park. Registration starts at 4:00 p.m. and is free for anyone having a lift pass. The competition is from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Teams of three compete on three terrain park features that are randomly chosen the day of the event. Teams can compete for nightly prizes and earn points based on the team’s performance. The team with the most points at the end of the three part series will win 2007/08 season passes. Future competitions will be held on Wednesday, February 7 and Wednesday, March 7.

Powder Mountain has terrain parks at Sundown and on the Hidden Lake Trail.

For more information, please call 801-745-3772 or visit the resort’s website at www.powdermountain.com.

Northern Region Wildlife News Update - Winter Ice Fishing Tips

Winter Fishing Tips
“Not the sun or the summer alone, but every hour and season yields its tribute of delight”--Emerson

Winter fishing is not boring!!! Rain, sleet and ice--all three in one day! But anglers hardly notice when they are comfortable and prepared for changing conditions.

Roy Angler Tod Omer uses an old ski pole fashioned with a piece of rubber hose on the tip to help him safely and quietly navigate stream bottoms.

Ice fishing gives anglers a chance to reach fish—something not possible for summer fishing for those who do not own a boat.

Water on the ice can eventually deteriorate it. Water also creates sloppy fishing conditions and makes it necessary for anyone who ventures out onto the ice to wear robber boots.

Fishing opportunities continue to grow in Utah. Within the past 10 years, the DWR has worked closely with cities to develop community fisheries. Most of these fishing holes are in or near residential areas. They have opened up fishing for people who might have not experienced this thrill without these areas. They also provide easy fishing for people visiting Utah on business.

More and more people are discovering and enjoying fishing at these urban fishing spots. As they do, DWR encourages them to try other kinds of fishing to more fully enjoy the great variety of fishing that is available in Utah. Winter fishing is a great part of that variety.

Many people think only of ice fishing when they think of winter fishing. But Utah has many rivers that flow in or near cities that provide great winter fishing.

Tod Omer from Roy loves to fish Northern Utah’s Rivers. At eighty years of age, this avid angler doesn’t let cold weather keep him from fishing. To help him keep his footing sure on slippery rocks, he has transformed a ski pole to help him navigate the obstacles that trip up many anglers—old AND young! Mr. Omer has placed a piece of red rubber hose at the end so he can see it and to not scare the fish. “Fish are pretty sensitive to sound,” said the easy-going angler with a smile.

Mr. Omer’s safety tip is one that fishermen of all ages can benefit from. River anglers need to remember that slipping and falling in icy river waters can be deadly.

Anglers who try fishing Utah’s rivers in winter, especially those who have never fished in the winter time need to know that no ice that forms at a river bank is safe. It may look solid on the top but running water under the surface usually erodes and weakens ice.

Ice fishing presents a completely different set of safety conditions—but once anglers know and follow safety rules for fishing on the ice, it is a sport that families can safely enjoy. The DWR’s website has a great page that is dedicated to detailed tips for ice fishing safety. The link for ice safety is: http://www.wildlife.utah.gov/cf/ice_fishing.php).

Contact: Phil Douglass,
Northern Region Conservation Outreach Manager
Phone: 801-510-1406
Email: phildouglass@utah.gov

Winter Fun, Safety at Wasatch Mountain State Park

Midway * Wasatch Mountain State Park offers great activities for the entire family this winter, from cross-country skiing to free safety clinics.

Six miles of groomed cross-country ski trails are now open. Skiers will find flat, easy terrain on the Lake Course, and a more advanced route on the Mountain Course. Trail passes are $5 per day, with rental equipment available for an additional $5.

January is Winter Recreation and Safety Month at Wasatch Mountain State Park. Every Saturday throughout January, park staff host free events designed to get visitors out and experiencing winter in new, safe ways.

Saturday, January 5 and 13: This snowshoe clinic is held two consecutive Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Explore snowshoeing, health benefits, and techniques. Each day begins with indoor discussion followed by practical experience on snowshoes. Bring your own snowshoes or rent a pair from the park.

Saturday, January 20: Join park staff for an avalanche safety class from 9 a.m. to noon and learn how to recognize and avoid potential slide areas, and how to use basic safety equipment.
Saturday, January 27: Build a basic snow cave at 10 a.m. This fun winter activity is also a life saving skill.

Each event begins at the Educational Yurt at Wasatch Mountain State Park. Registration for each event is required by calling (435) 654-1791.