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Outdoors by Rick Best
Winter Sports: Quad
For once it's really winter in Cibola County. I've never seen the snow linger here so long.
Given all that wonderful snow, it's time to consider the many ways one can enjoy the outdoors at this time of the year. But before everyone piles into the family stratocruiser and heads out into the hills, here are some reminders on safety and some suggestions on how to avoid becoming a victim of the winter conditions.
First, check out the vehicle. Cold weather usually brings out all the things that might be wrong with your vehicle, from a weak battery to coolant leaks, bad heater fans and bald tires. Make sure your vehicle is ready to get you out and back. Pack a survival kit with sleeping bags, blankets, snacks, water and other gear just in case. Also, be aware that most dirt roads in the nearby public lands are not passable because of snow and ruts, so plan to park at trailheads instead of driving deep into the forest. Finally, tell someone who cares where you plan to go.
Next, get your cold weather gear ready. Layering clothing is a good way to allow for temperature control when you're out in the backcountry. If you're taking the kids, make sure their gear is up to the task: check boots, jackets, and gloves for proper fit and ensure that they are well insulated. If you plan to do any high-speed sports like sledding, skiing or snowmobiling, check out the safety gear as well; as one old biker friend of mind used to say, if you have a $10 head, wear a $10 helmet.
Now that everything is ready, what to do out there? There are many choices. For those seeking a mellow and laid-back approach to winter, some scenic driving might be enough. Local paved highways are open, and provide access to public lands where short walks lead to nice views of features like La Ventana Arch or Inscription Rock. The snowy covering on the trees and landscape are a nice contrast to what one sees in the summer.
For families and kids, sledding and tubing are fine winter sports traditions. For those seeking a more steady workout, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities abound, especially in the Cibola National Forest. For once, there is sufficient snow cover in the Zuni Mountains to get out and enjoy these winter sports in some very forgiving terrain. The nearby ski resorts at Sandia Peak and Santa Fe are also open for those who need the assistance of a chairlift to enjoy skiing.
Up on Mount Taylor, the Quad trail is now being groomed in preparation for that bit of insanity known as the Mt. Taylor Winter Quadrathlon, coming up on Saturday, Feb. 17. The event sequence is well-known: racers cycle up Lobo Canyon Road to the end of the pavement (a lung-buster even at slow speeds), transition to a run up La Mosca road to the run-ski transition, then ski up the trail and over Heartbreak Hill to the ski-snowshoe transition at 10,702 feet above sea level. Finally, the now-exhausted racers snowshoe up the last hill to the summit at 11,301 feet. And then, to make matters worse, they turn around and repeat it all back down the mountain to town, for a total of 43 miles of blown knees, sore hamstrings, frostbite, blisters and other athletic exhilaration.
You can explore this trail on race day, with a number pinned to your back and hordes of two-percent-body-fat hammerheads swarming around you, or you can get out and see it now with little pressure to be the first or avoid being the last. Start by driving up Lobo Canyon Road to the end of the pavement at the top of La Jara Mesa. Continue to the junction with Forest Road 453, and take this road up to the run-ski transition, marked by the shelter and restroom along 453. For a more realistic approach, you could cycle up the pavement, then run to the run-ski transition.
I'm kidding, just kidding. From the shelter, you can use cross-country skis or snowshoes to travel up the trail. The shelter is at 9,479 feet, so it's 1,822 vertical feet up to the summit of Mount Taylor.
I recently met up with Mike and Marie Cerniway and their dog Ricco at the run-ski transition for a short cruise up the mountain. It's a nice snowy day, with a fresh dusting of powder. We geared up and headed into the trees on the quad trail. The crews have been grooming the route for a bit now and the trail is well defined. Marie and Ricco took off ahead of us, setting down a blistering pace. Trees arched overhead, creating cathedral-like structures of trunks and branches. The clouds and light mixed with snow showers to create a magical winter scene that we cruised through. We finally reached First Meadow and climbed the final pitch to the base of Heartbreak Hill. It's easy to see where the name comes from; any cross-country skier popping out of the trees and seeing the unrelenting wall ahead would lose all hope. We satisfied ourselves with a view of the hill, then turned around and journeyed back down to the run-ski transition. Mike had the advantage of skis; he grooved a few telemark turns through the fresh powder while Ricco chased him, and glided off into the trees. We took our time, snowshoes softly thumping down into the new snow as we hiked along. Ah, winter.
Note: Winter sports activities, like all outdoor sports, can be hazardous! Do your part to stay safe; use the proper gear and stay within your skill level.
(Rick Best is a staff member at the Northwest New Mexico Visitor Center.)
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Calendar of Events
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These are upcoming events in our area. If you would like to add an event, please call the Chamber at 287-4802 or fill out the form on the "Events" page
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Rainbow rummage
Friday, May 09, 2008 at 8:00 AM
A flea market will take place May 9 at the Laguna Rainbow Center. There is no cost for setup, which starts at 8 a.m. The market will be one mile south of I-40 at Exit 108. For more information call
1-505-552-6034. |
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Creative elders
Friday, May 09, 2008 at 2:00 PM
The Cibola Senior Olympics Talent Show will take place May 9 at 2 p.m. at the Cibola Senior Center. The center is at 550 Jurassic Ct., For more information call 285-3922. |
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Branch graduation
Friday, May 09, 2008 at 6:00 PM
Commencement exercises for graduates of New Mexico State University-Grants will take place May 9 at 6 pm in the Grants High School North Gym. Branch commencement Ceremonies for the New Mexico State University-Grants class of 2008 graduates will take place May 9 at the North Gymnasium of Grants High School.
The commencement will begin at 6 p.m. Commencement speaker will be Ed Corley, Sr., of the Corley Automotive Group.
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Kids on target
Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 10:00 AM
An archery meet for children will take place May 10 from 10 a.m. to noon. Free instructions on the bow and arrow will be at 1000 N. First St. For more information call Ed at 287-8134 or Ray at 285-5523.
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San Rafael Elementary School Birthday
Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 4:00 PM
San Rafael Elementary School Advisory School Committee and Alumni Association
Invite you to Join them for San Rafael School's 70th Birthday Bash
Party will be held:
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Festivities will be from 5- 8 p.m.
Carnival with Food & Game Booths 8 - 11 p.m.
dancing to the Music of Amigos West Band
For more information call 285-2745, 285-2749, or 285-2750
School is located at 27 Mesa View St., San Rafael
Tickets
Advanced Tickets for Carnival 5 for $1.00
Advanced Tickets for Dance $5.00
$2.00 for Students (ages 3-12)
Free Dance Admission to Alumni
Who pick up Wristbands by May 7, 2008 |
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High School senior values
Friday, May 16, 2008 at 6:00 PM
A barbeque for graduating seniors will take place May 16 at the Riverwalk Park Gazebo.
Grants MainStreet Project is sponsoring the first ever Senior Graduating Appreciation BBQ, from 6-8 p.m. |
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Spring Concert
Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 7:00 PM
The musicians of the Grants High School Music Department will present their annual Spring Concert May 20. The free concert will be at 7 p.m. in the Old Gym. |
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Memorial Day Music Fest
Sunday, May 25, 2008 at 8:00 AM
Mark your Calendars for the Memorial Day Music Festival
On May 25, 2008.
Times and Events TBA. |
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Chamber Golf Tournament
Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 8:00 AM
Mark your calendars for the
First Annual Chamber Golf Tournament!
Tee Times TBA. |
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Art, Music and Golf on the Green
Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 9:00 AM
The Public is invited to a free relaxing afternoon of music sponsored by Sky City Casino and Hotel & Dancing Eagle Casino
The music will play between 2pm-7pm
There will also be several ART DISPLAYS sponsored by
our local Cibola Arts Council/ Double 6 Gallery, for
this year's second annual event.
For More Information Please Call the
Grants/Cibola County Chamber of Commerce
1-505-287-4802
1-800-748-2142
For all the Golfers Out there...
You are cordially invited to join us at the
Beautiful Coyote del Malpais Golf Course.
Fore!!
Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce
Denis Moleres Scholarship Fund
Saturday May 31, 2008
Come Join Friends and Colleagues for 18 Holes of Golf!
Registration: 8:00 am
Tee Time: 9:00 am
Place: 2001 George Hanosh Blvd.
Grants, NM 87020
Format: 3 person scramble
Fees: $50.00
Entrance fee includes 18 Holes, Golf Cart,
Goodie Bag, Lunch and the chance to win prizes
for the longest drive, closest to the pin and
1st, 2nd, & 3rd Place Finish.
Tee Time: Saturday May 31, 2008
9:00 am Shotgun Start
Contest:
Closest to the Pin
Longest Drive
Promotional Sponsorship
Uranium: $250.00 Includes:
1 Hole Sponsorship
1 Team Sponsorship
An Ad on the Radio,
Sponsorship in Beacon,
& Chamber Program Brochures
Donation of any give away items
Turquoise: $200.00 Includes
1/2 Hole Sponsorship
1 Team Sponsorship
An Ad on the Radio,
Sponsorship in Beacon,
& Chamber Program Brochures
Donation of any give away items
Copper: $150.00 Includes
1 Team Sponsorship
Donation of any give away items
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Art, Music & Golf on the Green
Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 9:00 AM
Saturday May 31, 2008
The Public is invited to a relaxing afternoon...
Art & Music will be available between 2pm-7pm
Music sponsored by:
Sky City Casino and Hotel & Dancing Eagle Casino
The ART DISPLAYS are being sponsored by our local
Cibola Arts Council/ Double 6 Gallery,
for this year's second annual event.
$5.00 Donation at the Door!
For More Information Please Call the
Grants/Cibola County Chamber of Commerce:
1-505-287-4802
1-800-748-2142
For all the Golfers Out there...
You are cordially invited to join us at the
Beautiful Coyote del Malpais Golf Course.
Fore! Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce
Denis Moleres Scholarship Fund
Come Join Friends and Colleagues for 18 Holes of Golf!
Registration: 8:00 am, Tee Time: 9:00 am
Place: 2001 George Hanosh Blvd.Grants, NM 87020
Format: 3 person scramble, Fees: $50.00 Per Person
Entrance fee includes 18 Holes, Golf Cart, Goodie Bag, Lunch
& the chance to win prizes for the longest drive, closest to the pin
& 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Place Finish.
Tee Time: Saturday May 31, 2008, 9:00 am Shotgun Start
Promotional Sponsorship's Available
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Artists sought
Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Art in the Park, set for May 31, wants artists to display their work at Fire and Ice Park. The Cibola Arts Council is the sponsor. The show will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information and to reserve a space call 287-7311.
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Artists sought
Saturday, May 31, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Art in the Park, set for May 31, wants artists to display their work at the Coyote Golf Course. The Cibola Arts Council is the sponsor. The show will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information and to reserve a space call 287-7311.
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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4th of July Parade
Friday, July 04, 2008 at 9:00 AM
The Annual 4th of July Parade & Rodeo
will be fun for the whole family.
Mark your canlendars. Times are TBA. |
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Freedom Festival
Monday, July 07, 2008 at 8:00 AM
Freedom Festival
July 7th-11th
Riverwalk Park
There will be 3 on 3 basketball tournaments, children's activities, free food, youth rallies, live music, and much more! Information available at www.mttaylorbaptist.org or by calling 290-1150 or 287-4102. |
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, July 16, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Annual Fire & Ice Bike Rally
Friday, July 18, 2008 at 8:00 AM
Mark your Canlendars for the Grants Annual Fire & Ice Bike Rally. Times and events are TBA. This event is Sponsored by the Grants MainStreet. Please Call 1-505-285-3573 for more information. |
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Membership Apprecication BBQ
Saturday, August 02, 2008 at 8:00 AM
The 2nd Annual Membership Appreciation BBQ will be at Blue Water State Park on August 2, 2008. Mark your calendars because last year was full of exciting entertainment. There was a rock climbing wall, canoes, and a mouthwatering BBQ filled with laughter and good times. This years times and activities are TBA.
Everyone is welcome! Please RSVP; bring your friends and family.
Sponsored by the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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New Mexico Mining Museum Gala
Monday, September 01, 2008 at 6:00 PM
Mark your calendars for this evening! The Annual New Mexico Mining Museum Gala is an elegant and lively evening that honors the former mining community. The ticket prices and times are TBA.
Sponsored by the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce
1-505-287-4802 |
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, September 17, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Cultural Archaeology Fair
Wednesday, October 01, 2008 at 8:00 AM
Mark your calendars for this year’s
Second Annual Cultural and Archaeology Fair.
Date and Times are TBA.
Sponsored by the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce
1-505-287-4802 |
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Ancient Way Cycling Tour
Wednesday, October 01, 2008 at 8:00 AM
The month of October is full of excitement with
The Annual Ancient Way Cycling Tour Events!
The events and times are TBA.
Sponsored by The Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce
1-505-287-4802
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Monthy Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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Monthly Chamber Luncheon
Wednesday, January 21, 2009 at 12:00 PM
The Chamber Membership Luncheons are held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. We alternate locations. Everyone is invited to attend the Chamber Luncheons. There are different guest speakers at each meeting. The meals are $10.00 per person. If you are interested in finding out more about your community or would like to join the Chamber as an individual or as a business please call the Grants/Cibola Chamber of Commerce.
1-505-287-4802
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To see more events, click on the "Events" tab on the main menu above. |
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Have a question about the Outdoors?
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