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“Debunk the Winter Funk” at Stagecoach State Park Saturday

Audrey Dwyer

— It’s that time of year when the elated spirits of a fresh snowfall and the activities that surround it have begun to dwindle.

But this weekend, the Stagecoach State Park will host an event to “Debunk the Winter Funk.” The family-friendly function will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Marina Parking Lot. The park will offer free activities to jumpstart the active spirits of Routt County’s outdoor enthusiasts.

“Debunk the Winter Funk” will include sledding, ice-fishing lessons with equipment provided by the park, a guided snowshoe hike from 11 a.m. to noon (with limited snowshoes) and hot cocoa, hot dogs and cookies provided by Friends of Stagecoach State Park. In addition, there will be a campfire for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores.



“I’m a parent and know first hand that sometimes families get stuck inside when the weather isn’t favorable or if they aren’t skiing and getting outside,” Stagecoach Park Manager Craig Preston said.

Incorporating new activities into the event, Preston said there will be skijoring demonstrations and lessons with Outdoor K9 and High Country Dogs starting at 11:15 a.m. Skijoring is cross-country skiing with a harness attached to a dog. Attendees are asked to bring their own equipment and dogs.



“We wanted to teach people what they can do in the winter that doesn’t have to do with skiing,” said Kelly Halpin, Stagecoach State Park administrative assistant. “There are so many opportunities, and when you get those skate skis out on the lake, it’s a good feeling. It always turns out to be a great day.”

Halpin also explained that the snowshoe hike will be an interpretive program for attendees of all ages to learn how to decipher animal tracks in the winter.

Also new in 2015 are fat bike demonstrations with Orange Peel Bicycles providing a number of bikes for all sizes and ages.

“It’s neat that they are offering something like this,” said Brock Webster, who will be at the event with Orange Peel Bicycles. “Maybe one of these activities will get someone inspired or be a new activity that they decide to keep doing.”

To reach Audrey Dwyer, call 970-871-4229, email adwyer@ExploreSteamboat.com or follow her on Twitter @Audrey_Dwyer1


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