Garfield County Profile -2016

SPFiorgouudrrcueec3:ti1Co:onAloinnrnaBudiaolllioONnial CtauunrbdailcGGFaaesseCtPor(noBsdCeuFr)cvtaiotino:nTCootaml mission SFToihguoururcesea3:n2Cd:oBAloanrrnarudeaolslO(OMiillBaPLnr)dodGuacstiCoonn: sTeortvaal tPiorondCuocmtiomnisinsion 800 3,000 700 600 2,500 500 400 2,000 300 200 1,500 100 1,000 0 500 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 0Millions 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Thousands 9000 8000 7000 6000 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Garfield County Well Permits Issued Garfield County Gas Well Starts State of Colorado Well Permits Issued Figure 33: Annual Drilling Permits Source: Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission3.1% 2.7% 0.9% Oil & Gas 25000 22774 9.0% Residential Commercial & 20000 Industrial13.9% Public Utilities 15000 11075 6833 Vacant 10000 Garfield 70.1% Agriculture 3878 3326 2962 2898 5000 Yuma 0 Weld La Plata Las Animas Rio Blanco 36 OtherFigure 34: Assessed Value Distribution 2015 SFoiguurrcee3: 5C:oNlouramdboeOr oilfaAncdtiGveasWCeolnlssebryvCatoiuonntCyo: 2m0m15ission (COGCC)Source: Garfield County Assessor www.garfield-county.com 51

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLEENERGY INDUSTRY NEW ENERGY IN THE WILD WESTPublicly Developed and Owned Solar Power GenerationCARBONDALE GLENWOOD SPRINGS NEW CASTLE SILT RIFLE PARACHUTE BATTLEMENT1.192 MW 20.5 kW 80.5 kW 291 kW 3+ MW 32.5 kW 435 kW Through the Garfield Clean Energy partnership, 10 as a transportation fuel. By 2016, the public CNG local governments in Garfield County work together fueling station in Parachute will be joined by to achieve targets for energy efficiency, renewable stations in Rifle and Glenwood Springs. The Roaring energy and petroleum independence. Garfield Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) uses 24 CNG Clean Energy provides programs and services to transit buses to serve routes from Rifle to Aspen. help households, businesses, and local governments Garfield County is also a great place for solar energy, become more energy efficient and reduce energy costs. with more than 300 days of sunshine per year. It has From 2010 to 2015, Garfield Clean Energy has helped the first two community solar gardens built on the nearly 700 businesses, households, and government Western Slope, and all 10 government members of buildings make energy upgrades that are saving more Garfield Clean Energy have solar arrays that offset than $603,000 per year. These projects boosted the local electric usage. These arrays range from Holy Cross economy with investments of $7.3 million in materials Energy’s (a public utility company) new 1.9 megawatt purchased from retailers and work by 169 contractors. solar farm near Carbondale to Parachute’s 3.6 kilowatt Garfield Clean Energy works for petroleum solar flowers at the I-70 Rest Area. The City of Rifle leads independence through the Western Slope Compressed the way with 3 megawatts of solar capacity, making the Natural Gas (CNG) Network. The project is building city net-zero for electricity use and the nation’s leader market demand for locally produced natural gas in solar power per capita.52 www.garfield-county.com

RETAIL AND TOURISM INDUSTRYIn addition to the natural resources industry, retail and 2010 and 2012. In 2014, increases in sales tax collectiontourism are an important part of the Garfield County every month occurred, (except for the first twoeconomy. The previously noted “boom” period (2002 months of the year), averaging 4.5 percent increasesto 2008) is evident in retail sales trends (indicated by per month over the prior year collection (source: Citysales tax collection), as is the sharp economic decline of Glenwood Springs). Countywide, accommodationbeginning in 2008. Though some retail recovery was seen and food services make up 16 percent of the sales taxin 2011 and 2012, another substantial decrease was seen collection, while retail trade makes up 48 percent ofin 2013, but it has been followed by an increase in 2014. sales tax collection. Manufacturing collects 5.5 percentIn Garfield County, total sales tax collection exceeded of the sales tax and wholesale trade 7.7 percentexpenditures by nearly 55 percent in 2013, which (Source: Garfield County Treasurer)equates to a total of over $970 million spent by non-residents. 0.39 Battlement MesaIt is also noteworthy to document the location of Carbondalesales. As to be expected, Glenwood Springs and Rifle 16.44 9.57 Glenwood Springsaccount for 79 percent of the sales tax income. While 1.94 New Castlethe remaining communities and unincorporated areas Parachutemake up the remaining 20 percent. 17.16 45.57 Remainder of GarfieldAnnual sales revenues in Glenwood Springs show Countypositive trends reflecting an increase in retail sales in 2.48 Riflethe city. Sales tax revenues rose by 7 percent between 3.03 Silt 2.51 Unincorporated Figure 36: Sales tax income (2015) Source: Garfield County Treasurer 53

Garfield County is a right to farm County. Given their and all manner of agricultural activities throughoutimportance to the County, agricultural lands and the County continue to help define the County’soperations are worthy of recognition and protection. history, economy, landscape, lifestyle, and culture.The County has adopted a vision that includes Landowners, residents, and visitors must be preparedpreserving its rural character and agricultural heritage to accept the activities, sights, sounds and smells ofby encouraging the retention of agricultural lands, the County’s agricultural operations as a normal andworking farms, and ranches. Ranching, farming, necessary aspect of living in a county with a strong rural character and a healthy agricultural sector.AGRICULTURAL54

Agricultural accounts for approximately two percent Agriculture, is active in the County with a field officeof county employment and contributes approximately located in Glenwood Springs. The NRCS partners$22 million to the economy annually. The County has with local conservation districts to provide support toa thriving agricultural community that ranges from a local ranchers and farmers on topics such as naturalplethora of community gardens to large commercial resource assessment, conservation planning andfarms and greenhouses. Almost every community ecological science. The County supports agriculturalwithin the County has at least one community garden, based programs such as 4-H and Future Farmers ofcommunity supported agriculture businesses, and America which are an important part of growing up forseasonal farmers markets to bring locally grown food youth in Garfield County.to the table. It is Colorado’s land – its beauty, clear air, and cleanGarfield County has been home to national events water – that attracts visitors and residents, resulting insuch as the National Sheep Dog Trials. The trials are strong communities and prosperous economies. Losingheld at a large ranch outside of Carbondale and are this open land is a direct threat to our economy anda test of a dog’s agility to maneuver sheep in a calm, way of life. Located in Carbondale, the Aspen Valleycontrolled manner. The trials event is held over six days Land Trust (AVLT) has been working in Garfield Countyand attracts participants and spectators from around to permanently preserve open lands for agriculture,the country. wildlife, habitat, scenic enjoyment, and recreation.National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), a AVLT has successfully conserved over 38,000 acres ofdepartment of the United States Department of important properties throughout the area including several working ranches. HUMAN SERVICES The demand for economic security support has progressively increased since 2008. The county’s economic security total cases per year increased 18 percent between 2014 and 2015 and has increased an overall 33 percent since 2010. These cases include, services for cash assistance, medical assistance, food assistance and child care. Garfield County does however, have a lower poverty rate of 11.9 percent than the state at 13.2 percent (Source: Garfield County Department of Human Services). 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 2000 0 feb mar apr may june july aug sept oct nov dec Jan 2011 2012 2013 average monthly 2010 2014 2015 SFioguurrcee3: 7G:aGrfaierflideCldoCuonutyntHyuEmcoannoSmericviSceecsurity Cases 55

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRYOne of the best indicators of construction activity is In 2013, valuations showed the first increase since itthe number of building permits, and the value thereof, peaked in 2007. Valuations declined slightly again inissued by the Garfield County Community Development 2014 due to contraction in valuation for commercialDepartment. These have declined significantly in recent permits. Valuations are spread relatively equallyyears, though 2011 saw a temporary improvement in between commercial and residential construction andthe number of building permits issued. Many of these a small portion to other types.permits were for small home improvement projects.The years 2012 and 2013 showed a decline once again $200,000,000 600in total permits, though 2014 saw a modest increase $180,000,000 500from previous years, as construction in single family $160,000,000 400homes picked up as a reflection of the local economic $140,000,000 300conditions. $120,000,000 200 $100,000,000 100 $80,000,000 0 $60,000,000 $40,000,000 $20,000,000 $- Residential Commerical Other Residential Total Valuation Total Permits Figure 38: Building Permit Valuations 2005-2011 Source: Garfield County Community Development Department56

NOTABLE NEW EMPLOYERThe Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Garfield County, specifically the Rifle Garfield CountyAerial Firefighting was created in Senate Bill 14-164. Regional Airport, was selected in April 2015 as theDuring the legislative session, proponents of the site for the Center of Excellence, as recommended bycenter explained that there is currently no mechanism the Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC). Asfor determining the efficacy of aerial firefighting, and home to the Upper Colorado River Interagency Firethe need exists for an innovative, science and data Management Facility, and with its proximity to thefocused research entity. For this reason, the center was Colorado Army National Guard High Altitude Aviationheld up as an integral part of ensuring the successful training site, the center will be well positioned forimplementation of Colorado’s own aerial firefighting success in Rifle, and will benefit all of Colorado. Thefleet. Rifle/Garfield County location offers DFPC the ability to“In short, the Center of Excellence will research, test, pair its currently existing resources (Fire Managementand evaluate existing and new technologies that Officer and Engine Crew) with the Center of Excellencesupport sustainable, effective, and efficient aerial staff. As noted by Governor John Hickenlooper, thefirefighting techniques,” said Colorado Division of Fire decision to locate the center in Rifle will “serve as thePrevention and Control Director Paul Cooke. best way forward to meet our shared goal of protecting lives, property and our natural environment from devastating wildfires.”“the Center of Excellence will research, test, and evaluateexisting and new technologies that support sustainable,effective, and efficient aerial firefighting techniques.” — CDFPC Director, Paul Cooke 57

Healthcare Garfield County has robust healthcare options. They include two established hospitals, Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, and Grand River Hospital and Medical Center in Rifle, that both provide state-of-the- art professional medical care for residents of Garfield County. In addition, there are innumerable general and specialized clinics, as well as, well-respected alternative medicine facilities such as naturopathic doctors, therapists, and acupuncturists.HOSPITALS Grand River Hospital and MedicalAND CLINICS Center The Grand River Hospital and Medical Center opened inValley View Hospital Rifle in 2003, and houses a clinic, physical therapy andValley View Hospital, established in 1955, is a surgery center, along with an emergency and radiologycommunity-owned, nonprofit hospital with a sterling center. It offers state-of-the-art surgical services,reputation for professionalism and patient services. It outpatient services, and a caring and experienced in-is a fully licensed, 78-bed hospital, with inpatient and patient medical-surgical, acute care unit and a 24/7outpatient surgical units and a 24-hour emergency emergency department. The center is equipped toroom. handle approximately 80 percent of the emergencyValley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs is one of only cases that come through its doors, but it does not160 hospitals worldwide to be designated as a Planetree deliver babies. Partnered with family practitioners,Hospital and is one of Truvan Health Analytics’ Top 100 talented surgeons, and a modern radiology departmentHospitals. Valley View has also been recognized for and laboratory, all located on campus, the facilityexcellence by Healthgrades, J.D. Power & Associates and staff provide exceptional healthcare. It has anand Consumer Reports. The array of specialty services impressive physical therapy department. The clinic isin the Glenwood campus includes the Calaway Young a high quality, low-cost alternative to the emergencyCancer Center, the High Mountain Brain & Spinal department for treating non-life-threatening illnessesSurgery Center, the Heart & Vascular Center and the and injuries and offers after hours care.Cardiovascular Innovation and Research Institute. Battlement Mesa Medical CenterValley View’s countywide services include a state-of- Operated by Grand River Health District, the Battlementthe-art facility in Carbondale, a medical care center in Mesa Medical Center offers a variety of services and isSilt and several specialty centers and physician practices. staff with experienced family medicine practitioners. The facility is conveniently located in Battlement Mesa adjacent to the town of Parachute.58

E. Dene Moore Care Center hospital founded in 1896 by the Sisters of Charity ofOperated by Grand River Health District, long-term care Leavenworth. Today, St. Mary’s is the largest medicalis available at the E. Dene Moore Care Center, located center between Denver and Salt Lake City, with overin Rifle. This 57-bed, long term care, rehabilitation and 350 beds, 2,000 staff, and 300 active physicians. Therespite care facility accepts Medicaid, Medicare, Medi- hospital physicians represent more than 40 specialties,care Part A, private pay and managed care contracts. and it is dedicated to providing specialized services,Its physician led health care team, skilled nursing and experienced professionals, and the latest in techniquesregistered dietitian provide 24 hour care services. The and technology close to home for the people of westernclinic is open seven days a week. Colorado and eastern Utah. St. Mary’s Hospital is fullySt. Mary’s Hospital accredited by the Joint Commission on AccreditationSt. Mary’s Hospital, in Grand Junction, Colorado, but of Health Care Organizations, the American Medicalonly 45 miles from Parachute, is dedicated to meeting Association Council on Medical Education, the Coloradothe healthcare needs of the residents of western Medical Society, and the American Association ofColorado and eastern Utah. St. Mary’s is a not-for-profit Blood Banks.VETERAN’S ADMINISTRATIONCLINIC AND HOSPITALLocated in Grand Junction, the Veteran’s Administration Located in Glenwood Springs, the Glenwood SpringsMedical Center (VAMC) serves 37,000 veterans. VAMC TeleHealth Clinic is a satellite clinic of the Grand JunctionGrand Junction, Colorado, exists to serve veterans through VA Medical Center. Its mission is to provide primarythedeliveryoftimely,qualitycare,bystaffwhodemonstrate health care to veterans living in the Glenwood Springsoutstanding customer service, the advancement of health area, including Pitkin and Eagle counties, and othercare through research, and the education of tomorrow’s surrounding communities. The TeleHealth Clinic offershealth care providers. The VAMC operates 53 beds, services in primary care visits and follow-up, mentalcomprised of 23 acute care and 30 Transitional Care Unit health visits, wound care, pre and post-operative care,beds. The VAMC provides primary and secondary care nurse clinic visits, immunizations, patient education,including acute medical, surgical, and psychiatric inpatient medication management, laboratory: blood drawingservices, as well as a full range of outpatient services. The services, and diabetes management. The clinic alsoVAMC was the recipient of the 2001 Presidential Award offers veterans the opportunity to speak face-to-facefor Quality and the 1999 Robert W. Carey Quality Award with a benefits representative at the Denver RegionalTrophy. It is the first and only organization ever in VA to Benefits Office via a secure teleconferencing system.earn the Presidential Award for Quality.GARFIELD COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTHThe Garfield County Public including blood pressure screenings, car seat checks,Health Department ensures that communicable disease surveillance, early periodicresidents of Garfield County have screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Medicaidaccess to resources that promote clients (EPSDT). It has health care programs foroptimal health, safety and well- children with special needs (HCP), health education,being. Its mission is to prevent immunizations for children and adults, prenatal casedisease and promote healthy management, tobacco prevention, travel vaccinations,behavior by targeting the highest and administers the Women, Infants and Childrenstandards of health for individuals (WIC) nutritional supplement program. It also has anand communities. The county environmental health division that provides the mostprovides a variety of services, robust air quality monitoring program in the state. www.garfield-county.com 59

Senior LivingGarfield County is a great place for seniors to live and enjoy their golden years. With a variety of living optionsand county programs, such as Well & Wise, the county is focused on keeping its seniors healthy, happy, andactively engaged in their community of choice.The county has a senior nutrition program that provides hot nutritious meals to seniors over 60 and their spouses.Each meal provides at least one-third of the adult daily recommended dietary intake and seniors are encouragedto pay as they are able. The program also supports socialization and is a referral system for information aboutsenior issues and activities in the various communities throughout Garfield County. Other services provided bythe county include a Senior Equipment and Service Program, a Caregiver Support Program, and the NorthwestColorado Options for Long Term Care. Garfield County Senior Programs publishes a monthly newsletter, so thatseniors can stay well connected and engaged with their community. Additional senior services within the countyinclude a Meals on Wheels program, a variety of home health services and hospice by private entities.SENIOR CENTERSWith a rapidly growing senior population in the County, a senior lunch program. The Rifle Senior Center alsoseveral centers are available for social engagement provides a social space, as well as a senior lunchand resources. In Glenwood Springs, the Lucy Huntley program, as does the Valley Senior Center in Parachute,Senior Center is located at Colorado Mountain College. and the Senior Matters space at the 3rd Street CenterIn Silt, the fire station provides a meeting space and in Carbondale.60

LIVING FACILITIESVarious options exist throughout the county for seniorliving facilities, ranging from independent care facilitiesto nursing home facilities.Senior housing facility Type LocationHERITAGE PARK ASSISTED LIVING AND CARE CENTERCRYSTAL MEADOWS SENIOR HOUSING* Assisted/Nursing CarbondaleHARMONY HOUSE ASSISTED LIVINGOPEN GATE RESIDENCE Senior CarbondaleSUNNYSIDE RETIREMENT CENTER*CREEKSIDE ASSISTED LIVING Assisted Glenwood SpringsGRACE HEALTH CARE OF GLENWOOD SPRINGSTHE MANORS (MANOR l AND MANOR ll) Assisted Glenwood SpringsCASTLE VALLEY RANCH SENIOR HOUSING*SILT SENIOR HOUSING (GC HOUSING AUTHORITY) Senior Glenwood SpringsRIFLE HOUSING AUTHORITYCHATEAU AT RIFLE Assisted Glenwood SpringsE. DENE MOORE CARE CENTERVETERANS COMMUNITY LIVING CENTER Nursing Glenwood SpringsMESA VISTA ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCEVALLEY SENIOR HOUSING (GC HOUSING AUTHORITY) Independent Glenwood Springs*part of the senior program Senior New Castle Senior Silt Senior Rifle Assisted Rifle Nursing Rifle Nursing Rifle Assisted Parachute Senior ParachuteTRANSPORTATIONSeniors and disabled individuals unable to use regular Paratransit service is provided for individuals that areRoaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus unable to access the Carbondale Circulator within theservice may be eligible for Americans with Disabilities Town of Carbondale due to a documented temporaryAct (ADA) Paratransit service within the city limits of or permanent disability.Aspen, Glenwood Spring and throughout Garfield The Traveler provides accessible transportation toCounty. This program is provided under the guidelines those over the age of sixty-five and for persons with aADA. This program is open to those persons unable to disability in designated areas of Garfield County. Basedboard, ride or exit a wheelchair lift equipped bus, and in Glenwood Springs and Rifle, the Traveler servespersons whose disability does not allow them to travel qualified individuals within the following Garfieldto and from the stop. County service area parameters: a five-mile radiusRFTA and the City of Glenwood Springs provide from Interstate 70 between Parachute and Glenwoodcomplementary paratransit service for passengers Springs, and a five-mile radius from Highway 82with disabilities to individuals that reside within 3/4 of between Glenwood Springs and Carbondale. To helpa mile of the “Ride Glenwood” fixed-route bus service support its operation, the Traveler requests voluntarywithin Glenwood Springs. Similar ADA Complementary donations for the services it provides. www.garfield-county.com 61

Recreation & Leisure According to a 2008 survey of Garfield County residents, up to 60 percent said they live in the county for its recreational opportunities. As such, tourism is a high priority for the county, which benefits from both significant summer and winter visitations. Over 15 percent of countywide respondents resided or relocated to Garfield County due to its proximity to ski resorts. While many of the signature recreational amenities of the area have been provided in this section, it is impossible to list them all. For more recreational opportunities, visit the town’s chambers, visitor centers or recreation centers. Sunlight Mountain Resort free. Located just 12 miles south of Glenwood One of the great independent ski resorts, Sunlight Springs, this gem of a resort is a no hassle, no hype Mountain Resort is a winter playground with hundreds resort and is a certain pleaser with powder stashes of acres for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, that lasts for days. Accessed from the same parking cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The resort lot, is the Babbish Gulch area that provides miles of provides a full-day of skiing for about half the cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Amenities cost of the large resorts. With 67 trails and 3 lifts, include a restaurant, lounge, rental and retail shop, there are rarely lift lines, and everyone parks for ski school, children’s center, and snowmobile tours.62

Rio Grande, Glenwood Canyon, and White River National ForestCrystal River Bike Trails Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, theFor biking enthusiasts, pedaling from Aspen to 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is theGlenwood Springs is one of the best things to do while top recreation Forest in the nation. Home to world-visiting Garfield County. The 44 miles of continuous renowned ski resorts and the birthplace of designatedmulti-use trail features many access points, so one wilderness, the White River has something to offercan pick the ride that is the right length for either a every outdoor enthusiast. Accessible from every townweekend or lunch hour ride. The trail is a Rails-to-Trails in Garfield County, the White River National Forest isproject and was developed along the old Rio Grande available for one to enjoy such pleasures as camping,railway corridor. It has an easy grade up and down the ATV riding, fishing, skiing, rock climbing, or a quietvalley. afternoon reading in the forest.The Crystal River Trail is a spur trail that connects in Gold Medal Fly-Fishingthe town of Carbondale to the Rio Grande Trail. The Garfield County is at the center of five world-classtrail has a gentle grade and follows State Highway 133 rivers, including the Frying Pan, Roaring Fork, White,south from Carbondale for about five miles. Crystal, and the Colorado rivers. Because of thisThe Glenwood Canyon trail is a renowned biking trail as proximity, the City of Glenwood Springs has beenwell. It is a popular thoroughfare through the narrow named Field & Stream’s #1 Top Fishing Town. Anglersgorge of Glenwood Canyon and meanders alongside of all abilities are successful on these rivers and canthe Colorado River for 18 miles between Glenwood enjoy the day fishing from a bank or by taking a guidedSprings and Dotsero. For those that enjoy using a float trip. Even if fish are not caught, one cannot helppaved trail, these trails are not to be missed. but enjoy the views from either the bank or the boat.Flattops Wilderness Area Hanging LakeThe Flat Tops Wilderness Area is the second largest U.S. There’s a good reason this is one of the most popularWilderness Area in Colorado. It is 235,214 acres (951.88 hikes in the state of Colorado. Geologically speaking,km2), with 38,870 acres (157.3 km2) in Routt National there are few places in the world that can compare toForest and 196,344 acres (794.58 km2) in White River this marvel of Mother Nature. Hanging Lake is a rareNational Forest. It was designated a wilderness area in example of a lake formed by travertine deposition1975. Trappers Lake, located in the north of the area, where the natural geologic and hydrologic processeswas the lake that inspired Arthur Carhart, a U.S. Forest continue to operate as they have done throughout theservice official, to plea for wilderness preservation. This history of the lake. The site is also noteworthy for itswilderness area is unique. It compares with no other thriving hanging garden plant community. Because ofmountain range in the state. There are no tall spires, these qualities, Hanging Lake was designated a Nationaland no fourteeners are found in the Flat Tops. Rather, Natural Landmark by the Secretary of the Interior init is a massive block of rock pushed upward and planed 2011. Accessed from I-70 at the Hanging Lake exit, getlevel, its surface punctured here and there with rare there early, as the parking lot often fills up!peaks rising a thousand feet above the high plateau. www.garfield-county.com 63

CARBONDALETouted as one of the “Best Towns” according to Outside Magazine and “Top 12 Towns” in the “50 Next GreatestPlaces to Live and Play” by National Geographic Adventure Magazine, Carbondale is a great base camp forrecreation enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for a rad skate boarding park, a scenic drive, a mountaineeringadventure or a calming yoga class, you can find your adventure of choice either in or near Carbondale. The Townof Carbondale provides a Recreation and Community Center in a 13,500 square foot state-of-the-art facility. TheTown of Carbondale also maintains an outdoor pool that is open during the summer.Some of Carbondale’s Top 10 “must do’s” are found below; however, a more exhaustive list of Carbondale’srecreational assets can be found by visiting www.carbondale.com/activities-recreation.Epic Hikes and Bike Trails the winter or in the midst of spring thaw, head to theWhether one is interested in pavement or dirt, wheels desert areas of Fruita, Loma or Moab, Utah where theor feet, one can explore Red Hill and Mushroom Rock, trails are world-class and just a short drive away.the Crown Trails, Thompson Creek, or the Lead King West Elk Loop Scenic BywayBasin Loop – to name just a few. Stop into one of Once described as “the closest you can come to athe local bike shops for the skinny on the latest trail wilderness experience in a passenger car,” this routeconditions. Don’t forget to spend the day up valley too. has a unique combination of geological, historical,Aspen and Snowmass are only a quick drive up valley recreational, and scenic features. Carbondale is theto some of the best mountain biking in the state (not gateway for this stunning route that traverses 205to mention the not-to-miss road bike to the Maroon miles of spectacular vistas.Bells). When the ground is still covered with snow in64

Spectacular Golf Courses the Crystal River, framed by beautiful aspens and aSituated at the foot of the majestic Mount Sopris, River backdrop of stunning mountains, gives it an undeniableValley Ranch Golf Club is a 520-acre residential golf and visual appeal.resort community nestled in Colorado’s spectacular Historically speaking, the Mill was known as the SheepCrystal River Valley. The rolling valley floor and banks of Mountain Power House, and was located on the Lostthe Crystal River unite to create a prime landscape from Horse Mill site. Today it is known as “The Crystalwhich to craft a magnificent mountain golf course. With Mill”. The mill, constructed in 1893, harnessed thethe natural palette of the valley’s riparian corridors, river adjacent to the mill to power the air compressorwetlands, grasses, and rolling topography, River Valley housed inside. The mill closed its operations in 1917.Ranch has been heralded as “the new jewel of the Continuing efforts to preserve it have been aided byRockies” by Golf Magazine, which named River Valley the Gunnison and Aspen Historical Societies, residentsRanch to its prestigious “Top 10 You Can Play” listing. In of Crystal and Marble, and interested individualsaddition, Golfer Magazine featured this well-known golf caught by the spectacle of the old Mill.club in its recent “Best of America’s New Courses” list.Hot SpringsNo trip to the mountains is complete without a visitto the hot springs. A few miles south of Carbondaleare the geothermal pools at Avalanche Ranch. Justdown the road from Avalanche Ranch are the PennyHot Springs that sit on the banks of the Crystal River.The historic Glenwood Hot Springs are located right offI-70 in Glenwood Springs. Conclude a weekend of epicadventures by soaking away those sore muscles.The Crystal Mill www.garfield-county.com 65The Crystal Mill is located 6 miles east of Marble, justbefore the ghost town of Crystal. It is reachable onlyin the summer and fall months by a rough, one-lane,4-wheel-drive road. The picturesque Crystal Mill isone of the most photographed sites in Colorado. Itsprecarious perch on an outcropping of rock just above

GLENWOOD SPRINGSAt the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, the historic resort town of Glenwood Springs isfamed for the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Glenwood Canyon, Yampah HotSprings Vapor Caves, and Sunlight Mountain Resort. One cannot only explore underground caverns, pedal milesof riverfront trails, or paddle the whitewater, they can also sample local produce, shop in unique boutiques, orjust focus on relaxation.Today, Glenwood Springs’ attractions draw over a 1.5 million visitors each year. Each season offers somethingunique. The warm summer months provide endless opportunities to raft, kayak, hike, and bike while the wintersnow attracts skiers, riders, snowshoers, and ice skaters. Swimming and cave exploration are year-round activities.Though Glenwood Springs offers a plethora of more traditional recreational pursuits, such as its outstandingcommunity center (gym, climbing wall, aquatic center, fitness classes), Glenwood Springs offers some outdooradventures that are both unusual and unique to the area. For an exhaustive resource of recreational activitiesvisit www.visitglenwood.com. Hot Springs Hot Springs pool is complemented by a 107-room Home to two hot springs facilities, including the largest lodge, water slides, mini-golf, athletic club, and the Spa mineral hot springs pool in the world, Glenwood of the Rockies. Springs has a deep-rooted heritage in the spa and In 2014, owners broke ground on the Iron Mountain hospitality business. Visionaries of the late 1800’s built Hot Springs and the facility opened in the summer of an internationally known hot springs resort. Travelers 2015. The Iron Mountain facility includes a large family from around the globe soaked in the thermal waters, pool with fresh chlorinated water and 16 smaller pools stayed in a luxurious hotels, and explored the wonders that are connected by heated walkways. The smaller of subterranean caves. Originally named Yampa (“Big pools are filled with natural thermal waters and range Medicine”) by the native Utes, early pioneers called in temperatures. Set along the bank of the Colorado it “The Grand Spring.” As the world’s largest mineral- River, this facility is quickly becoming a choice location rich hot springs, it has served visitors for thousands of for soaking and relaxation. years and is rich with mythic properties for healing and relaxation. Open year-round, the Glenwood Springs66

Glenwood Whitewater Park surfing longboards and use a paddle for steering.The first whitewater park built anywhere on the entire Yampah Spa Hot Springs Vapor Caveslength of the Colorado River, the Glenwood Springs One of Glenwood Springs’ most unusual attractions isWhitewater Activity Area (“Whitewater Park”) has also one of its most historic. The underground vapor-become a destination for paddling enthusiasts from filled caverns at the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves werearound the globe. The area’s river improvements and originally used by the Ute Indians for both healingthe creation of the wave were completed in 2008, and rituals. The Yampah Vapor Caves are one of onlyto the delight of the local and regional paddling and a few known natural vapor caves in North America.stand-up surfing communities. Depending on river Deep underground mineral-rich steam from theflows, there is the G-wave and also a “hole” at the Yampah spring, the same source that barrels waterfeature. It is most popular with park users from May into the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, seeps into threethrough September. It was selected as the site for the subterranean chambers and fills them with hot steam.2009 U.S. Freestyle Kayaking Team Trials and has beengetting rave reviews from paddlers ever since. The siteregularly convenes top paddlers who testtheir skills against the powerful current ofthis manmade wave.Stand Up Paddle Boarding 67Though the sport has its origins in Hawaiiansurfing traditions, SUPing as its known, ismuch easier to learn, extremely safe andanother great way to play on GlenwoodSprings’ main waterway, the ColoradoRiver. Much less demanding than surfing,paddle boarding is ideally suited to certainstretches of the Colorado River includingthe acclaimed Glenwood Whitewater Parkwith its innovative standing wave. Stand-up boards are larger and more stable than

Paragliding & Skydiving Enjoy ice skating with the whole family at the outdoor,High flying adventures abound in Glenwood Springs. covered, NHL-sized rink at the Glenwood SpringsParagliding, sky diving, and the exhilaration of flight are Community Center. Open November through March,not only for adrenaline junkies! Adults from all walks this facility is coveted as one of the few covered iceof life, kids, older folks, and even girls in dresses have rinks in the area. Winter hockey leagues attractbeen thrilled by these tandem adventures. There’s no players of all skill levels and from as far away as Grandexperience required and experienced pilots are there Junction, Colorado.to guide the experience over treetops, rivers, and Disc Golfmeadows. Drift on invisible currents and take time to Fans of the Colorado Mountain College Spring Valleysavor the views of the magnificent Roaring Fork Valley Campus disc golf course say it’s one of the best coursesspread out like a toy landscape below. anywhere. The best part of playing disc golf at the CMCSegway Tours course is the course itself; it has some of the most jaw-Glide through downtown Glenwood Springs, and dropping views of Mount Sopris and the Elk Rangealong our river trails aboard a Segway Personal further to the south.Transporter. The leading-edge mobility technology is Established and maintained by Sunlight Mountainnot only green, it will have you grinning ear-to-ear as Inn and the Roaring Fork Disc Golf club, the newestyou maneuver around town. Experienced guides will Disc Golf Course is at Sunlight Ski Resort. The courseteach you all you need to know about how to operate features a variety of challenges including tight, tree-your personal transporter. Follow their lead and head lined fairways, long uphill tee shots, and huge downhillto some of Glenwood’s most exciting destinations, drives.including overlooks on Red Mountain with some of thebest views of the surrounding mountains and town.68 Ice Skating

Glenwood Springs, ColoradoVoted “America’s Most Fun Small Town,”— Rand McNally & USA Today TravelGlenwood Caverns Adventure Park No visit to Glenwood Springs would be completeHome to USA Today’s “One of top 10 Caves in the without a tour of the Glenwood Caverns and HistoricWorld” and one of seven finalists for U.S. Chamber’s Fairy Caves. Explore an underground landscape millions2015 Small Business of the Year Awards, the Glenwood of years in the making. Learn about the living cavernAdventure Park and Fairy caves is a not-to-be-missed that’s home to thousands of formations, includingattraction. stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, cave bacon andThe Adventure Park is a western-themed park, where a flowstone. Experience the amazing King’s Row, thescenic tram ride to the top of Iron Mountain begins the most highly decorated cave room in Colorado. Ratedday of fun, with incredible views of the Roaring Fork “One of the Top 10 Places to Go Underground!” Thereand Colorado River Valleys and the mountains beyond. are two 40-minute walking tours appropriate for mostThe park features several scream-worthy thrill rides ages that depart throughout the day. No reservationssuch as the Cliffhanger Roller Coaster, Giant Canyon are necessary for the walking tours. Longer Wild ToursSwing, Soaring Eagle Zip Ride, and Alpine Coaster. are available with advance reservations.There are also a variety of other kid-friendly attractionsand activities the whole family will love. 69

New Castle is Western Colorado’s best kept secret for mountain living, small town charm, and killer outdoorrecreation opportunities. New Castle is proud of its thirteen developed parks and its well-maintained communitycenter. The parks offer residents and visitors a wide range of recreational and social activities, while there arenearly limitless outdoor recreation options at one’s doorstep. http://www.newcastlecolorado.org/things-to-do NEW CASTLE Lakota Canyon Ranch and Golf Club skiing trails, and miles of groomed snowmobiling trails. Lakota Canyon Ranch and Golf Club opened for play Well-placed signs point snowmobilers to the west in 2004, offering 18 holes of world-class golf with and foot traffic to the east. The snowshoeing trails stunning views of rugged western Colorado canyons lead through beautiful stands of aspens and lead to and natural terrain. Designed by nationally renowned overlooks limited only by the weather conditions. architect, James Engh, Lakota Canyon provides a rare Horseback Riding opportunity to enjoy amazing golf at the doorway of Colorado is horse country. New Castle offers some of Colorado’s most breathtaking mountain vistas. opportunities to learn riding, take guided trail rides, Lakota Canyon Ranch and Golf Club is open nine months ride in the wilderness, spend a vacation at a ranch out of the year. It has been named one of “Colorado’s with horses, or watch horse shows in an indoor arena. Top Golf Courses,” and has earned numerous honors. Several local ranches offer arenas for riding lessons, PGA certified professionals provide management and show and special events. Coulter Lake Guest Ranch instruction for individuals and groups. located in the Flat Tops offers cabins, horseback riding, fishing, and boating, as well as winter recreation Four-Wheeling to the Clinetops activities. The working Porter Ranch in the Alkali Creek New Castle is the gateway to the Flat Tops. One of the Valley just South of New Castle offers a venue for most spectacular drives is the four-wheel-drive road to campers to enjoy horseback riding, fishing, biking, and Clinetop Mesa. The one-lane Clinetops Road has many hiking on thousands of acres. sharp switchbacks, along with opportunities to pull off Camping to admire the views. Near the upper end of the road Camping opportunities in New Castle range from is the area burned in the fire of 2002. The new growth primitive to luxurious. Elk Creek Campground offers is testament to the forest recovery process. The road cabins, tent sites and RV sites along beautiful East Elk ends on top of the mesa. During the spring mud season Creek, with restrooms, showers and laundry facilities. the road requires more caution, and the upper half Meadow Lake Campground offers 10 campsites, fire may be blocked by snow long after warm weather has grates, trash disposal, and a vault toilet. Meadow Lake reached lower elevations. In the fall, the road is heavily is a popular fishing lake, with a boat ramp. Meadow traveled by hunters, and progress can be considerably Ridge Campground, located north of Meadow Lake, impeded. June, July, August and early September are has 20 campsites, including pull-in, pull-out and pull- the ideal times to take the drive. through opportunities and wheel chair accessible sites. Spruce Tree Guest Ranch provides charming knotty Winter Sports on the Flattops pine cabins nestled along East Elk Creek. Lastly, there While winter weather in town can be generally mild, are areas of dispersed camping allowed in both the there is always plenty of snow just a few miles away. White River National Forest and on BLM land. Buford Road (County Road 245) is open all the way to Buford in the summer. In the winter, the road closes at a large parking lot about 17 miles from New Castle. This parking lot accesses both snowshoeing/cross-country70

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Hiking The eighteen-hole course is highly-rated by disc golfersNew Castle has several in-town trails and provides easy who appreciate its challenging layout, as well as theaccess to mountain trails. One of the town’s unique spectacular river views. Coal Ridge Park is also home tofeatures is the small mountain which sits in the middle the town’s boat ramp for Colorado River access.of town. The Mt. Mederis trail, which can be reached Cross-county skiing and snowshoeingfrom C Avenue, leads across the ridge of the mountain. The Buford Road parking lot gives access to a networkThe Colorow Trail offers a three-mile hike through BLM of snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails. Theland north of town pedestrian bridge and Talbott Trail trails wind through meadows and aspen groves, leadingconstructed in 2014 provide riverside hiking and biking. to spectacular outlooks. Turn onto East Elk Creek RoadNearby are the trailheads to the East Elk Creek Trail, just north of New Castle to enter the White Riverthe Storm King Memorial Trail, the Hadley Gulch trail National Forest. From the parking lot, it is unplowed inand the Cherry Creek Trail. All provide miles of hiking the winter and provides a great 1 1/4 mile snowshoeingthrough magnificent wilderness areas with spectacular trail to a bridge crossing the creek. Harvey Gap doesviews. A guide to the trails is available at New Castle not maintain cross-country trails, but the entire parkTown Hall and on the town website. is open to skiers all winter. Lakota Canyon Ranch GolfDisc Golf Course is also a great place to cross-county ski and it isCoal Ridge Park, on the south side of the Colorado open to snowshoers and skiers all winter.River, is home to the Fire Mountain Disc Golf Course.72

The Town of Silt has thirteen developed parks on approximately thirteen acres. The town SILTmaintains 3.6 miles of trails. With excellent access to public lands, Silt residents andvisitors have a variety of outdoor amenities to choose from to enjoy.Silt River Preserve camp was and visit other historic sites, or just takeIn 2009, the Town of Silt purchased a 132-acre parcel pictures of great scenery. Today enjoy, fishing, hunting,south of the Colorado River on County Road 346, known camping, picnicking, and spot wildlife such as elk,as The Silt River Preserve. The town collaborated with mule deer, mountain lions, black bears, coyotes, foxes,Great Outdoors Colorado, the Aspen Valley Land Trust, wild turkeys, and pheasants. These along with scenicthe Gates Family Foundation, and with other agencies photography are just some of the activities you canto develop a plan for the property. The Preserve is held enjoy in these forests.as a perpetual conservation easement, and is managed Harvey Gap State Parkas wildlife habitat, open space, and for agricultural Harvey Gap State Park is Silt’s backyard playgroundpurposes. The preserve provides opportunities for and is a favorite spot for anglers in winter and summer.naturalist to observe wildlife, bird-watch, and to access Stocked with catfish, largemouth and smallmouththe Colorado River. bass, perch, crappie, rainbow trout, and northernThree National Forests pike, there are plenty of options for anglers. BoatsWhite River, Gunnison, and Grand Mesa forests are with motors 20 horsepower or less and canoes areaccessible from the town of Silt. President Theodore welcome. Ice fishing draws anglers to Harvey Gap inRoosevelt is responsible for preserving the lands of all the winter. Harvey Gap also offers shaded picnic tablesthree of these forests. One of the oldest stations, the by the water, boating and a swim beach. The 160-acreCayton Ranger Station, is near Theodore Roosevelt’s lake is also ideal for windsurfing and stand-up paddle1905 hunting camp in present day Grand Mesa boarding. Harvey Gap is a day-use area, but overnightNational Forest. Visitors can see the one room school camping is available nearby at Rifle Falls State Park andhe dedicated, where the German prisoner of war Rifle Gap State Park. 73

RIFLE It’s no secret why people want to relocate to Western Colorado; the quality of life and the surrounding landscape are unmatched. In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado River Valley is a mecca for all things outdoors. With eight major alpine ski resorts within an hour’s drive and more than 800,000 acres of back country wilderness in the White River National Forest, Western Garfield Colorado residents spend the majority of their free time on their bikes, rafts, kayaks, skis, and climbing ropes. Rifle and the surrounding area abound with authentic mountain and outdoor activities. From fishing (rivers and lakes, ice fishing and fly fishing), boating, hunting, golfing, camping, hiking, world class rock climbing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, horseback riding, mountain biking, spas, museums, bowling, rodeo, and water skiing, one can nearly do it all in Rifle. The City of Rifle has an active parks and recreation department that has offerings for a variety of ages and skill levels. The city also provides a recreation and workout facility as well as the Art Dague pool and slide. For a list of other activities in Rifle, visit www.riflechamber.com/tourism; in the meantime, here are a few highlights of the area.74

Hunting warm welcome in town and can find accommodationsRifle welcomes all types of hunters! Duck and goose and dine at the Shooter Grill, where they are “Armedhunt on the Colorado River, pack in by horse or ATV to and Delicious!”some of the best deer, elk, bear, and lion hunting, or The Flat Top Range, accessed from New Castle via thebring your dog to kick up a pheasant or grouse from the Buford Road (CR 245), is an exceptional region fortall grass. The Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce hosts hunters. The White River National Forest is open toa Hunters Welcome Center so hunters from all over the hunting for elk, mule deer, wild turkeys, black bear andnation that stop in Rifle have the opportunity to visit big horn sheep. Hunting licenses are available locally aswith representatives from the US Forest Service, Bureau are supplies for hunting trips. There are campgroundsof Land Management, Colorado Division of Parks and near Meadow Lake, a prime hunting location, andWildlife and many more! Hunters can get information dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest.on “where the deer & elk are”, hunting tips and tricks, Hunting information and regulations are available fromlodging, restaurants and businesses that supply all Colorado Parks and Wildlife.their hunting gadgets and gear! Hunters receive a Centennial Park Centennial Park, the crown jewel of Rifle, was conceived in 2005 and completed at the end of 2010. This park consists of historical information, a water play area, sundial, amphitheater, and a large open grass field. This park has been the recipient of four prestigious awards: 2011 Starburst Award from Colorado Lottery, 2011 CPRA Columbine Award for Park Design, 2011 Downtown Colorado Inc. Award for Best Downtown Park and 2011 Design Concepts Merit Award for Design. This park has been the venue for many new events in Rifle, including the very successful Centennial Concert Series and Market, as well as a Fall Festival, Tree Lighting Ceremony and many other events. The park continues to be an icon of Rifle’s history and the hub for today’s arts and cultural events. 75

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Rock & Ice Climbing Monster, and the Anti-Phil Wall; there are over 100“Simply put, Rifle Mountain Park is the best limestone climbing routes.sport climbing destination in North America.” Rifle Falls State Park— Wolverine Publishing Rifle Falls was listed as one of the 99 Gorgeous Places in Colorado. On a hot summer day, the mist that driftsIf you’re feeling adventurous, Rifle Mountain Park from the exhilarating gush of water over 70-foot-highfeatures world-famous rock climbing and ice climbing limestone cliffs and the dark caves below them in Rifleopportunities. Rifle Mountain Park is a narrow box Falls State Park are a sublime natural air conditioner.canyon located just 13 miles north of Rifle. The area It’s home to Colorado’s only 80-foot triple waterfall.serves as one of America’s premiere sport climbing Explore through small limestone caves. RV and tentdestinations, and has been listed by Colorado.com as camping, wonderful trails. Rifle Falls State Park is alsothe “Five Spots Not to Be Missed!” The 2.5 miles of considered the perfect wedding setting.steep limestone walls that comprise Rifle Mountain Rifle Gap State ParkPark contain a wealth of routes. Most of the routes are Listed as the number 5 in the Top Colorado Summerfor advanced climbers, but a beginning climber can still Cool Downs, the well-maintained swim beach atfind plenty to have fun with. The climbing season runs Rifle Gap State Park is a great place to enjoy pristinefrom mid-April through late October. Rifle Mountain water, as well as extraordinary Rocky Mountain views.Park contains an unbelievable concentration of Landlubbers can head to the nearby Rifle Falls to takestandard setting climbing. Known for its overhanging in the lush scenery, savor its misty spray or explore theenduro-fests, caves and “meat” walls, it’s the ultimate limestone caves.rock climber’s paradise! With names like Noble’s Wife,Call the Cops, Don’t-Point-That-Thing-At-Me, Swamp 77

PARACHUTE/BATTLEMENT MESABattlement Mesa Golf Club Battlement Mesa TrailsBattlement Mesa Golf Club opened in 1987 and has The Battlement Mesa trails provide an opportunitybeen ranked one of the “Best courses in America for pedestrian and recreational activity. Within theYou Can Play” by Golf Digest. The routing takes full community of Battlement Mesa an extensive systemadvantage of the one-of-a-kind setting, a high plains of paved trails provide access for pedestrians andplateau overlooking the Colorado River. The club offers bicyclists to ride for miles and enjoy the beauty of theaffordable golf vacations and a welcome relief from community. From the Battlement Mesa trailhead, onethe atmosphere found not far “up valley” in Vail and can ride ATVs and enjoy the fantastic scenery of theAspen. www.battlementmesagolf.com. ride and the sight of the Battlement Reservoirs. The trailhead also provides access to the active individuals to either hike or bike to the top of the battlements.78

Grand Mesa Access Colorado RiverAt 10,000 feet, Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top The Colorado River flows calmly between the townmountain in the world, rises more than a mile above of Parachute and Battlement Mesa. The river affordsthe valley floor. Discover aspen and spruce groves, many opportunities for recreation, including, a smoothflowered meadows and over 200 cool clear lakes raft/canoe/kayak ride down the river from Cottonwoodoffering fantastic fishing for rainbow, brook and brown Park to the Una Bridge or all the way to De Beque. It istrout. Some lakes have boat launches, of which many ride that is conducive for the entire family.can be reached from the highway. For the more Fishing/Wildlifeadventurous, visit the lakes only accessible by four- The lake on the Colorado State Department Fishwheel drive, foot or horseback. Utes called this the and Wildlife property near Cottonwood Park on the“Home of the Departed Spirits” and they brought Colorado River provides recreational fishing for allhostages here after the 1879 Meeker Massacre. Almost ages. It is a stocked pond and fish are plentiful. Inentirely within the Grand Mesa National Forest, Grand addition, the property is a wildlife and environmentMesa has abundant wildlife, making this a popular area refuge. One can sight many species of birds and otherfor fall hunting. Elk, deer, moose, and many smaller wildlife and wetlands abound.mammals roam the alpine forest. Drive the Grand Mesa Grand Valley Recreation CenterScenic and Historic Byway and tour the changing aspens Located in the heart of Battlement Mesa, the well-in the fall. maintained and loved Grand Valley Recreation CenterCottonwood Park offers fitness and martial arts classes, a weight room,Cottonwood Park, is an eight-acre park in which an indoor running track, spa, sauna, cardio area,special events are held and the community gathers to racquetball and tennis courts, as well as an Olympicenjoy the outdoor amenities of the park. The town’s size pool. The facility also has a caterer’s kitchen,festivities of Grand Valley Days and Oktoberfest are meeting rooms, and a game room. Discounted ratesheld here annually. The park can be reserved by the are provided for in-district members, includingpublic for parties, reunions, weddings, and parties. homeowners, renters, and other full time residents. The recreation center is open to the public. 79

“Diverse” is an appropriate description for the range of Garfield County’s cultural amenities, as it spans sixmunicipalities and several geographic regions, each with their own identities and influences. While much ofthe county proudly retains a rural and western culture that harkens back to its farming and ranching roots,gradual urbanization is altering the cultural landscape. This is being accompanied by an influx of moderntelecommunications, performing arts centers, and urban transplants seeking rural lifestyles.As just a flavor of the diversity offered to residents and visitors to the county performing arts are drawing largeraudiences throughout the county with performance centers like Thunder River Theater Company in Carbondale,the New Space Theater at the CMC Spring Valley campus, and the recently renovated New Ute Theater in Rifle.The many world-class cultural offerings in Aspen and Vail are easily accessible from most areas of the county.These venues provide community and professional theater, programs on literature, politics, visual arts, and avariety of public educational, civic and cultural activities. Colorado Mountain College provides multiple culturalopportunities to students and the public at its various campuses within Garfield County.Each community within the county has a variety of cultural amenity offerings that range from film to rodeo, andfrom fairs to historic walking tours. This section highlights only a few of the unique and signature events thathelp give each community its unique flavor and feel.Cultural EventsGARFIELDCOUNTYGarfield County Fair and EventsCenterThe Garfield County Fair and Events Center is locatedin the heart of Rifle, Colorado. With nearly $2 millionin recent improvements the facility consists of a 225feet by 140 feet indoor arena, a 250 feet by 150 feetoutdoor arena, 140 stalls, and three meeting rooms/banquet halls. The facility hosts a wide variety ofevents throughout the year, including rodeo events,such as team roping, barrel racing, and bull-riding. Thefacility is also used for many agricultural events, such as4-H, Future Farmers of America (FFA) and other youthfunctions and houses the Colorado State Universityextension office. The facility also hosts other diverseevents, such as job fairs and expos, private parties andbanquets, and carnivals and concerts.Garfield County Fair and Rodeo CARBONDALEIn 2016, the Garfield County Fair celebrates its 78th First Fridaysyear. The fair and rodeo, held yearly in early August, On the first Friday of each month, experience all thingsfeatures a family rodeo, PRCA ProRodeo, bull riding, Carbondale, including gallery openings, art walks,parade, a car show, concert, and a demolition derby. business open houses, live music and street performersEvenings at the fair are concluded with well renowned in historic downtown, at the Third Street Center, andmusicians showcased in the facility’s arena. along Highway 133.80

Mountain Fair Carbondale Wild West Rodeo SeasonThe Carbondale Mountain Fair began in 1972 with 20 Billed as “The place to be on Thursday Nights” thebooths showcasing local artists and artisans. Today, the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo Association presents aMountain Fair draws over 145 vendors, poised to bring 12-week summer season of authentic rodeo, featuringtheir unique and diverse homemade wares to town competitors from across the state and as far awayeach summer. In addition to vendors, Mountain Fair as Texas. Each week sees more than 150 contestantsfeatures non-stop entertainment–both in live music compete for the coveted end-of-the-year belt buckleand various forms of performing arts. There is a family- and weekly prize of $2,000. The rodeo is everyarea called The Oasis, which provides interactive, Thursday, rain or shine and is held at the Gus Dariencreative experiences for children, there is also great Arena. www.carbondalerodeo.comfood; friendly competitions that run the gamut frompie baking to wood splitting, and an amazing spirit. That New Powers Art Center; a World-Classspirit is best evidenced by the over 300 volunteers who Arts Centercome together to run the fair. Throughout the weekend, The Powers Art Center offers a world-class galleryover 20,000 people pass through from across the state facility set against the backdrop of Mt Sopris. Theand all over the country. www.carbondalearts.com gallery, which opened doors in 2014, is now open to5Point Film Festival the public Monday through Thursday and has freeThe town of Carbondale is known as Colorado’s admission. The center’s permanent exhibits showcasebasecamp for adventure and home to the world- Jasper Johns limited edition works on paper, and withrenowned 5Point Film Festival, which takes place over 300 works in the collection, the Art Center is ableevery April. For those seeking an adventurous kick-off to feature 100 works in each exhibition. The Powersto spring, 5Point weekend is an inspiring time to spend Art Center was created in memory of the life of Johndays outside in the mountains, followed by nights G. Powers as a museum and study center. The centerviewing the best of adventure filmmaking. Visitors can is a gift to the community and visitors to share Power’slive out a 5Point adventure of their own, with biking, passion and study “Pop Art” through the lens of Jasperhiking, and mountain activity all on Carbondale’s Johns. The galleries are supplemented by a librarydoorstep. The town offers a range of accommodations and conference room to facilitate contemplativeand gourmet dining, rounding out a perfect adventure enjoyment and research of the works. The Powers Artweekend where life could indeed imitate art or film. Center is located near Carbondale, on a ranch setting.The 5Point film festival takes place at the Carbondale The building itself is a new 15,000 square foot facilityRecreation Center, and across downtown Carbondale with state of the art solar electric generation andvenues. The four-day-long program of inspiring short geothermal heating and cooling, designed by Japaneseadventure films, special guests, filmmakers, outdoor architect Hiroshi Nanamori. www.powersartcenter.orgindustry professionals and athletes from across theglobe. Established in 2008, 5Point Film is on a mission True Nature Healing Artsto inspire adventure of all kinds, to connect generations True Nature Healing Arts is a new sanctuary for healththrough shared experience, to engage passion with a and wellness featuring one of the only reflexologyconscience, and to educate through film. 5Point also pathways in the country. The center offers daily yogahosts various film events around the country, and and meditation classes; the petit spa offers a selectionorganizes the Dream Project, an adventure scholarship of wellness massages, body treatments, facials andprogram for local high school students. holistic treatments. The sanctuary’s design incorporatesPotato Day Feng Shui principles, eco-friendly materials, solarPotato Day is the longest standing annual community panels, local artisan crafts and architectural antiquitiesevent in Carbondale! Since 1909, local farming and from Afghanistan, India, Pakistan and Morocco – allranching families have kept local traditions alive with a creating spaces that transcend time. The High Pranaparade, BBQ, potato sack races, and other fun activities food kitchen serves the vegetarian, paleo, and raw foodthat take place in Sopris Park. communities, featuring items such as medicinal loose- leaf teas, coffee, chai, cold pressed juices, gourmet meals, soups, snacks, and special desserts just to name a few. www.truenaturehealingarts.com. www.garfield-county.com 81

GLENWOOD SPRINGSThe community of Glenwood Springs is highly engaged made arts and crafts, Colorado wine and tastings, livein all of the arts, as is evidenced by the National Center music, cooking demonstrations, and more.for Arts Research ranking Glenwood Springs the number Historic Ghost Walk/Linwood Cemeteryone Vibrant Medium and Small Cities for the Arts. Three weekends each October, the Frontier HistoricalStrawberry Days Society and Museum present a ghostly visit to theStrawberry Days is the oldest community festival past. Guides take participants by lantern light throughwest of the Mississippi. Starting in 1898, Strawberry Linwood Cemetery where actors portray people whoDays now includes music, a fine arts fair, a carnival, lived in Glenwood Springs 100 years ago, includingfood, interactive entertainment, and FamilyFest. In gunslinger and dentist, John Henry “Doc” Holliday.addition, the annual Saturday parade down Grand Glenwood Vaudeville RevueAvenue culminates at Strawberry (Sayre) Park with Since the late 1800s, vaudeville variety shows havefree strawberries and ice cream. entertained audiences with song, dance, magic,Free Summer Music Performances comedy and all-around silliness. One hundred yearsThe community, funds and supports live music ago, Vaudeville was the only entertainment availableperformances. Included in this, are free music concerts in the west. Acts traveled around the countryat the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and at Two performing in quaint theaters and were often theRivers Park. Two Rivers Park hosts music on select highlight of the year. The Glenwood VaudevilleWednesday nights through the summer. The Caverns Revue revives this time-honored tradition at the siteMusic on the Mountain Series offers “a can for a tram” of the former Springs Theatre, 915 Grand Avenue.where the donation of a canned good for the needy Amtrak Train and Railroad Museumgets a free tram ride to the concert. Enjoy the relaxed pace of train travel and a visit to theDowntown Market historic Railroad Museum at the train depot. AmtrakTuesday evenings until nearly dark, are the time to has year-round daily arrivals into Glenwood Springsshop for your local produce and enjoy the distinct from various points throughout the west and midwest.community of Glenwood Springs. The Downtown The California Zephyr travels from Chicago to SanMarket is open mid-June through September and is an Francisco, with stops in Denver and Grand Junction.open-air market featuring farm-fresh produce, hand-82

NEW CASTLEBurning Mountain Festival potluck with foods that were popular in the 1880’s,The Burning Mountain Festival has been a New Castle and live music.tradition since 1973. Originally sponsored by the New Community MarketCastle Branch Library, the festival is now sponsored by The New Castle Community Market begins in July andthe town, with the help of generous volunteers. continues through September. The market has manyThe Burning Mountain Festival is New Castle’s regular vendors who sell fresh produce, food and asignature event. It is a small town’s celebration of variety of hand crafted products. The Communitysummer, friends, family, and tradition. Neighbors from Market generally starts in early July and continuesnear and far are encouraged to join in the fun. Taking until the end of September. It is held every Thursday inplace over two days in early September, the festival Burning Mountain Park. There are also booths availablecelebrates the town’s mining history and is named for for non-profit and civic groups to disperse informationthe iconic mountain in which a coal seam still burns. or offer demonstrations. Local musicians perform atThe festival includes a parade, musical performances each market.in Burning Mountain Park, craft and food vendors, Chili Cookoffpancake breakfast, classic car show, kid’s carnival, and Not just an opportunity to sample a wide variety ofnew activities each year. chilies, New Castle’s Chili Cookoff is the town’s annualFounders Day Celebration winter celebration. In early December, crowds gather inIn February, the town gathers to honor the anniversary Burning Mountain Park to eat chili, sample local beer,of its founding in 1888. The event features stories enjoy musical entertainment, and light the Christmasfrom New Castle’s history, along with an old-fashioned tree. SILTSilt Historical Park Movie Night in the ParkThe Silt Historical Park emphasizes life as it was when Residents and visitors are invited to bring a blanketSilt was founded a century ago. The Historical Park and chair to Town Park to watch a movie on the bigfeatures Chautauqua annually in May, at which time the screen. Movies in the park are a great way to get out,park is manned with storytellers and demonstrators to meet fellow residents and enjoy the offerings of aeducate and entertain the public for two days. small town. Movies start at dark and concessions areStoney Ridge Pavilion - Party at the available for purchase.Pavilion Emily Johnson Play-it-Forward SoccerThe Town of Silt built the Stoney Ridge Pavilion in 2011, Tournamentto the north of the Stoney Ridge Recreational Ball The Annual Emily Johnson Play it Forward 3v3 SoccerField. The outfield is used as the seating area, where Tournament is held every year in June at Gates Soccerpatrons bring a chair or blanket (no fixed seating). Park on CMC’s Spring Valley campus. Fifty teams of sixThe Stoney Ridge Pavilion is a 40 foot wide by 26 foot players complete on boys and girls teams, as well asdeep concrete concert stage, with a permanent roof co-ed adult teams in both recreational and competitiveconstructed of wooden beams and trusses. It was divisions. The tournament honors the passion of Emilydesigned to structurally support a professional sound/ Johnson, an amazing Coal Ridge soccer player who waslight system. During the summer, the town hosts Party tragically killed in an ATV accident in November 2008.at the Pavilion, where live music is featured in the All proceeds support three scholarships given to localevenings. A variety of music including blues/jazz, 80’s high school seniors in Emily’s name.rock tribute, country, and stand-up comedy is part ofthe regular summer line-up. www.garfield-county.com 83

RIFLERifle RendezvousThe Rifle Rendezvous is an annual event in Rifle thatPARACHUTEcelebrates the local history, and provides culture andentertainment for the western slope of Colorado. ABATTLEMENT MESArendezvous is a place where people of all cultures canassemble and exchange their wares, goods, values,and ideas. The Rendezvous serves as the perfect placeto bring together people of all ages and heritages, Winter Festwho have helped pioneer the mountains and valleys The first Annual Battlement Mesa Winter Fest was heldof western Colorado, both yesterday and today. It is in 2013. Since then, it has become an annual event,a place where people can come together as friends that takes place at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course andand acquaintances and accept and understand one the Town Plaza. Friends and neighbors of all ages gatheranother, while having fun. together for seasonal celebration, featuring ice fishing, a parade of lights, middle and high school royalty, a hay ride,Chili Cook-off bonfire, food and beverages, dances, and other events.Held in October each year, the annual Chili Cook-off andJalapeno Eating Contest is held in the Garfield CountyFairgrounds and Event Center. The 2016 event will becelebrating its 38th year. Participants are invited tocome and taste the best red chili, green chili, salsa, andguacamole in western Colorado. Prizes are awardedfor Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion,Showmanship, and People’s Choice.Ice Fishing TournamentEvery January, the Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce, inpartnership with Colorado State Parks and Wildlife andother local businesses, hosts an Ice Fishing Tournamentat Rifle Gap. Cash prizes are awarded for 1st through5th place for adults over 18 for Rainbow Trout, BrownTrout and Yellow Perch. Prizes are also awarded foryouth 17 and younger. Ute Theatre and Event Center The city of Rifle is proud to have restored and reopened the Ute Theater & Events Center in the heart of downtown Rifle. Operated by the city, the facility is a state-of-the-art theatre and events center offering a space to gather, host events, produce cultural programming, and entertain. The Ute Theater & Event Center provides amenities, such as on-site sound and lighting equipment, stage, dressing rooms, tables or audience seating, and concession area.84

Oktoberfest Community Classic Golf TournamentBattlement Mesa and Parachute jointly host Oktoberfest The Battlement Mesa / Parachute Community Classicin Parachute’s Cottonwood Park. The early October Golf Tournament is held annually in September.annual event features food, fun, and fireworks. Other Battlement Mesa Golf Course hosts the event. Thefun family offerings have included a zip line, hamster event is a 4-Person Scramble, Shotgun Start whichballs, bungee trampoline, bounce houses, and cotton makes it fun for both the skilled and the novice golfer.candy. A national known country western line-up Movies Under the Starsperforms at a concert on the Friday evening before the Hosted by the Grand Valley Recreation Center, freeSaturday activities. The event continues to grow and is movies are shown on the lawn at the Grand Valleyanticipated to soon become a signature event on the Recreation Center. Movies play on four nights eachI-70 corridor. summer and begin at dusk.Grand Valley Days National Night OutThe Grand Valley Parks Association hosts the annual Battlement Mesa’s National Night Out, sponsored byGrand Valley Days event in Parachute. The event is the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office and Battlementa community event, commemorating the traditional Mesa Service Association, is always the first Tuesday ofwestern roots of the area. The event includes a two- August in the Town Plaza in Battlement Mesa.night rodeo and a Saturday morning parade that bringsthe community out to celebrate. 85

Page Descriptioncover Climber in Glenwood Canyon – David Clifford4 Solo climber with summit – David Clifford6 - 7 Roaring Fork River and Mount Sopris – David Clifford 8 - 9 Garfield County historical images – Frontier Historical Society11 Youth car wash – Kelley Cox12 Group rafting on the Colorado River – Kelley Cox14 - 15 Family on mountain top with Jeep – David Clifford16 Carbondale sculpture at night – Renelle Lott Town of Carbondale with Mount Sopris in background – Scot Gerdes17 Woman running near Carbondale – David Clifford 18 - 19 Young ballerinas in dance studio – Kelley Cox Glenwood Springs panorama – Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association19 Kayak competition on the Colorado River – Kelley Cox20 Parade in downtown New Castle – Kelley Cox Young men playing basketball outside – Kelley Cox21 Cub Scout camp fishing along river – Kelley Cox22 Aerial view of the Town of Silt – Scot Gerdes22 - 23 Horses along the Colorado River during winter – David Clifford23 Garfield County Commissioners and Silt town administrators – David Suminski24 Man on horse with American flag – Kelley Cox25 Ice climber at Rifle Mountain Park – Kelley Cox Runners during the Law Enforcement Torch Run – Sean Strode Family celebrating at the Garfield County Fair & Rodeo – Darcy Copeland26 Historic barn and drilling rig – Ryan Mackley26 - 27 Wingsuit jumping from the Roan Plateau – David Clifford PHOTOGRAPHER28 Glenwood Hot Springs Pool along Interstate 70 – Glenwood Hot Springs CREDITS29 Private jet taking-off at the Rifle Garfield County Airport – Brian Condie30 Visitors waiting to board the train – Kelley Cox32 Cyclists on Rio Grande trail – Jack Affleck 32 - 33 Man riding mountain bike on single track trail – David Clifford37 School children and teachers at a playground – Kelley Cox38 Girls playing guitar at the public library – Chasing Fireflies Photography42 restaurants and shopping downtown ¬–49 Aerial view of a gas pad in Garfield County – photographer unknown at press time50 Gas well pad in Garfield County – Kirby Wynn52 Celebrating the completion of the Carbondale solar array – CLEER Energy53 Group of snowmobilers – Kelley Cox 54 Tractor making hay in front of the Bookcliffs – Kelley Cox54 - 55 Hayfield with fence – Ryan Mackley56 Construction with planes in background – Sean Strode Construction of new airplane hanger – Sean Strode57 Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper cuts the ribbon for the Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial Firefighting – Sean Strode58 Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs – Valley View Hospital Grand River Health in Rifle – Grand River Health 60 Friend of the Seniors award winner, Bobbie Dungan – Sean Strode62 Powder skiing at Sunlight Ski Mountain – Todd Patrick63 Elk during winter in Garfield County – Ryan Mackley 64 Friends mountain biking near Carbondale – Ann Driggers65 Man fly fishing on river during fall – Todd Patrick The Crystal Mill in Marble, Colorado – stock image66 Family at the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool – Glenwood Hot Springs 67 Glenwood Hot Springs pool at night during winter – Glenwood Hot Springs Stand up paddle boarders on the Colorado River – Todd Patrick68 Family during a cave tour at Glenwood Caverns – Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park69 Kids riding the Glenwood Canyon Flyer at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park– Kelley Cox70 Campfire – Kelley Cox72 Lakota Canyon Ranch and Golf Club – Lakota Canyon Ranch73 Couple 4-wheeling in the mountains with a rainbow – David Clifford74 Herd of elk on the Flat Tops – Ryan Mackley75 Girl playing in water at Centennial Park – Ryan Mackley © Copyright statement Water skiing at Rifle Gap State Park – Kelley Cox This County Profile is a document created by Garfield76 Rock climbing at Rifle Mountain Park – David Clifford County Communications staff with data and information77 Rifle Falls State Park riparian area – Ryan Mackley for the use by businesses, citizens and visitors to the78 Views from the front nine in Battlement Mesa – Battlement Mesa Golf Club county, as well as for economic development groups.79 Grand Valley Recreation Center in Battlement Mesa – Renelle Lott Most of the photos in the profile are copyrighted and80 Woman on show horse – Brett Morrison solely owned by professional photographers, and82 Parade – Robin Proctor are not licensed for use or distribution to or by third84 Young man holding fish in winter – Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce parties. The photographers are named above, and the85 Cowboy roping calf – Lynn Shore county invites you to contact them to pursue licensing opportunities. Photos taken by county staff are available86 Two eagles at nest – Kelley Cox for community use.86

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GARFIELD COUNTY www.garfield–county.com88