In each issue of the Bulletin, we will turn the spotlight on one of our nine Regional programs. These regional groups were established by people who were inspired to recreate their own SFL experiences in a more local and intimate setting. It is our hope that you will enjoy their stories, and that you will support them in their efforts.
Can you imagine skiing on freshly-fallen snow in just a T-shirt while the bright sun pours its warmth on your back? Or, can you imagine traversing the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains as high as 11 thousand feet in mid-August only to find yourself standing on a patch of the white stuff? These images are not the province of fantasy, they are the reality of the Colorado Regional Ski and Trekk For Light!
Participants have come from all across the United States and even from abroad to enjoy cross country skiing and wilderness backpacking at their finest for many years, and I am writing to you to invite you to do the same.
The Colorado Regional Ski For Light, held in Granby, allows skiers at all levels of proficiency to enjoy the nearly 150 kilometers of trails at Snow Mountain Ranch. The 2004 event will be held Friday, January 23 through Sunday, January 25. We will be skiing from right outside the luxurious twin YMCA cabins where we will be lodging. The skiing is fantastic, the food is delicious and the socializing is unbeatable. For additional information and application materials, contact Dave Thomas at (303) 298-0672 or e-mail him at yourdama@ecentral.com.
Some participants might consider hopping the short flight from Denver to Rapid City, South Dakota Sunday evening to attend the 25th annual Black Hills Regional. (See Regional Round-Up for details.) Others have been known to extend their visit to Colorado and have made arrangements with guides they know to do some additional cross country skiing, and/ or to enjoy the fabulous downhill skiing at nearby Winter Park or at the other world-renowned resorts in our beautiful state.
The Trekk For Light is the Summer event that attracts outdoor enthusiasts to Colorado. This week-long backpacking trip through the North-central Rockies offers participants the peace and serenity of wilderness trekking, as well as the opportunity to learn about llama-supported hiking. That's right! Llamas are the third member of each team. On the Trekk For Light, a llama accompanies each visually-impaired participant and guide, carrying up to 80 pounds of camping gear, and all for just a handful of cornmeal a day! The 2004 Trekk For Light is scheduled for Friday, August 6 through Saturday, August 14. Don't miss the fun!