Golfing allows you to enjoy the best of Colorado’s natural beauty, all while playing a challenging game with friends and family. 

The Rocky Mountain Golf Card helps you make the most of mountain summers. It gives you two-for-one access to the best mountain golf courses in Colorado.

The Rocky Mountain Golf Card returns this season with iconic golf courses in the Colorado High Country. For just $79, you and your partner play for the price of one or receive a hefty discount at all participating golf courses. 

This Rocky Mountain golf card lets you experience the variety of challenges, scenery and restaurants that the best mountain golf courses in Colorado offer. 

With the Rocky Mountain golf card, golfing in the Colorado mountains has never been easier — or less expensive. Each card can save you up to $864. 

Simply reserve a tee time at any of the participating courses, pay one greens fee and bring a companion, who plays free. Each Rocky Mountain Golf Card entitles you to one BOGO-free round of golf at every one of the participating Colorado mountain golf courses. If you plan on golfing a few resorts more than once, simply purchase a Rocky Mountain Golf Card for the best deal. 

What is the Rocky Mountain Golf Card?

The Rocky Mountain Golf Card is the ultimate golf accessory for avid golfers looking to experience the best courses in Colorado’s High Country. As a print punch card, this exclusive pass provides golf enthusiasts with the unique opportunity to enhance their skills, spend unforgettable moments with friends, and explore breathtaking landscapes across the state.

Designed for golf lovers seeking new challenges and memorable experiences, the Rocky Mountain Golf Card offers potential savings at various golf courses, subject to each facility’s policy on availability and rates. While golf carts are not included unless specified, the card grants you access to a diverse range of courses, allowing you to perfect your swing and enjoy the great outdoors. Simply present your punch card at each facility for validation and adhere to the rules and etiquette of each location.

The Rocky Mountain Golf Card sets itself apart from competitors by offering a convenient, cost-effective way to explore Colorado’s golfing scene. This pass is valid until October 31 every year, giving you ample time to make the most of your golfing adventures.

Who should buy a Rocky Mountain Golf Card?

The Rocky Mountain Golf Card is an excellent investment for a wide range of golf enthusiasts, making it an ideal purchase for various types of golfers. Here’s who should consider buying a Rocky Mountain Golf Card:

• New Golfers: If you’re just starting out in the world of golf, the Rocky Mountain Golf Card offers an affordable way to explore different courses and gain valuable experience without breaking the bank.

• Avid Golfers: For those who live and breathe the sport, the card provides an opportunity to challenge yourself on a diverse range of courses across Colorado, helping you hone your skills and expand your golfing horizons.

• Visitors to Colorado: Tourists and travelers looking to experience the stunning landscapes and world-class golf courses of Colorado can take advantage of the Rocky Mountain Golf Card to access multiple courses during their stay, making for a memorable golfing vacation. Remember: Your pass pays for itself by playing as few as two cheaper rounds or one expensive round.

• Colorado Residents: Locals who love golf can also benefit from the card, as it offers a cost-effective way to enjoy their favorite pastime while discovering new courses and facilities throughout the state.

• Social Golfers: Golfers who enjoy spending quality time outdoors with friends and family will find the Rocky Mountain Golf Card a perfect way to organize group outings and foster camaraderie on the greens.

In summary, the Rocky Mountain Golf Card is a valuable purchase for golfers of all levels, backgrounds, and interests. Whether you’re a newcomer to the sport, a seasoned pro, a visitor to Colorado, or a proud resident, the card offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the best golf courses the state has to offer.

What golf courses are included on the Rocky Mountain Golf Card?

The 2023 Rocky Mountain Golf Card provides BOGO and discounted rounds at 9 phenomenal golf courses in Colorado’s High Country. So, don’t wait, elevate your summer — and golf game — with free rounds at the following Colorado mountain golf courses:

1. Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club

• Location: Steamboat Springs

• Elevation: 7,056′

• Holes: 18

• Yardage: 6730

• Designer(s): Robert Trent Jones II

• Season: May to October

With a sporty Robert Trent Jones II layout, plenty of wildlife, gorgeous mountain scenery and superb greens, it’s no wonder Golf Digest named Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort one of the best places in Colorado.  

“The course has a great mix of holes where precision is key, but at the same time you can pull driver and let it rip,” said Andrew Donner, director of golf. “Elevation changes are abundant but not extreme. The aspens frame up the golf course perfectly, and with Fish Creek meandering in and out, eye-popping golf shots are plenty.”

In addition, the sound of the roaring creek, the crackling of wood as a deer wanders by, the whistle of a marmot in the distance or a moose swimming across the pond are just standard “distractions” while golfing at the club, he said. “It doesn’t hurt that it is 80 degrees and sunny almost every day.”

2. Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks

• Location: Silverthorne

• Elevation: 9,035′

• Holes: 18

• Yardage: 7,413

• Designer(s): Tom Lehman and Hurzdan and Fry

• Season: May to September

Considered one of the top courses in the nation by Golf Magazine, golfing at Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks is truly memorable. It features lush, rolling fairways and immaculate greens surrounded by pines, aspens and snow-capped, 13,000-foot mountain peaks. Crystal-clear creeks and lakes punctuate the award-winning course. 

“The Raven Golf Club sits at 9,000 feet in elevation and boasts a 225-foot drop from tee to green at the par-4 ninth hole,” said general manager Ryan Parr. 

While the course is open to the public, it also has the fastest growing golf membership in Summit County, increasing by 115% in the last three years. 

With a full bunker renovation of all 88 bunkers, high-end, white sand in traps contrasts the blue sky and emerald greens.

3. Haymaker Golf Course

• Location: Steamboat Springs

• Elevation: 6,837′

• Holes: 18

• Yardage: 7,308

• Designer(s): Keith Foster

• Season: May to October

What makes Haymaker Golf Course unique is the fact that it’s a traditional, links-style course, located in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. Mount Werner’s snow-capped peak frames many of the holes, while the picturesque Flat Top Mountain Range surrounds the course. Native grasses and wetlands enhance wide-open fairways, and the golf course has earned Audubon International’s Highest Distinction for maintaining the utmost environmental standards. This extraordinary preservation makes the area a great place to spot elk, eagles, blue herons and other wildlife.

Thoughtfully designed by Keith Foster, seven sets of tee boxes allow for play ranging from 7,300 yards to about 5,000.

“It’s a really great layout for every type of golfer,” said head golf professional Cody Hasten.

4. Granby Ranch Golf Course

• Location: Granby

• Elevation: 8,100′

• Holes: 18

• Yardage: 7,123

• Designer(s): Nicklaus Design, Gage Davis

• Season: May to October

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Granby Ranch Golf Course offers a truly unforgettable golfing experience. This picturesque 18-hole, par-72 championship course promises a challenging yet rewarding round for golfers of all skill levels. With its unique layout, the course takes full advantage of the stunning natural landscape, providing golfers with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and meandering Fraser River.

The front nine at Granby Ranch Golf Course features a more traditional mountain golf layout, with gently rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and well-manicured greens. As you progress to the back nine, the course’s character shifts, offering golfers a more challenging test of their skills. The elevated tees, dramatic elevation changes, and tight fairways demand precision and careful shot selection, while the undulating greens require a deft touch with the putter.

Granby Ranch Golf Course is renowned for its exceptional course maintenance and friendly, knowledgeable staff, ensuring that every golfer enjoys a memorable round. The welcoming atmosphere extends to the clubhouse, where you can relax and unwind after your round, savoring delicious food and beverages while soaking in the breathtaking views from the patio.

5. Rifle Creek Golf Course

• Location: Rifle

• Elevation: 5,776′

• Holes: 18

• Yardage: 6,267

• Designer(s): Dick Phelps

• Season: March to November

Nestled along the Grand Hogback Ridge, Rifle Creek Golf Course provides a unique golfing experience with two distinct 9-hole tracks. Its friendly and expert staff aim to make your golf day a memorable experience — and the views themselves are unforgettable!

This year, golfers voted Rifle Creek #8 in Golfers’ Choice courses in Colorado, as well as one of the top 25 courses in the nation.

“This is one of the best values in the area and the course and all the surrounding views are fantastic — especially the back nine,” commented Golfers’ Choice golfer Captain badger. 

The open front nine holes weave across the sparkling Rifle Creek, offering a fairly easy walk. The back nine winds through rolling hills with elevated tee boxes. It’s challenging, and provides spectacular mountain views. In addition, its large pro shop has one of the largest selections of clubs, clothing and accessories on the Western Slope.

6. Glenwood Springs Golf Club

• Location: Glenwood Springs

• Elevation: 5,922′

• Holes: 9

• Yardage: 5,830

• Designer(s): Henry Hughes

• Season: March to October

Voted best 9-hole public course in Colorado by the Denver Post, Glenwood Springs Golf Club is set against a breathtaking backdrop of surrounding mountains and valleys. 

The par-35 course features tree-lined fairways and meticulously manicured greens. Bends and turns on green #5 make it the most challenging to navigate, while #8 makes a hole-in-one the most exciting because you can see the ball soar the entire way.

“The other greens on our par threes are elevated and intriguing,” said general manager Jerry Butler. “Having won the award of Colorado’s number one 9-hole golf course (in 2018), you will be pleasantly surprised by its challenging greens. What you will like most about this club is the people. They are small-town friendly, and everyone will make you feel like you are at home.”

7. Yampa Valley Golf Course

• Location: Craig

• Elevation: 6,186′

• Holes: 18

• Yardage: 6,583

• Designer(s): William Howard Neff, John Cochran, Jeff Potts

• Season: April to October

Lined by the lazy Yampa River, Yampa Valley Golf Course weaves through more than 240 acres of cottonwood trees, wetlands, native grasses and sages. 

Located in the heart of northwest Colorado, rolling hills create a gorgeous backdrop at this 18-hole course. 

As the oldest and most affordable facility in the Yampa Valley, the team’s mission is to provide a quality golfing experience wrapped in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The experienced, well-trained staff treats everyone like family and delivers outstanding service on its meticulously maintained course.

“(It has a) wonderful staff, beautiful course and some of the best views in the valley,” golfer Andrea Lyn Green posted on Facebook.

Golfer Tom Atkinson, who plays the course annually, aptly describes it as “a fun and unique golf experience.”

8. Steamboat Golf Club

• Location: Steamboat Springs

• Elevation: 6,610′

• Holes: 9

• Yardage: 2,913

• Designer(s): Andy Johnson

• Season: April to October

Steamboat Golf Club, nestled in the picturesque Yampa Valley, is a family-oriented and affordable 9-hole golf course that offers a delightful golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Established in 1965 by a group of passionate golf enthusiasts, the course has since become a cherished gem in the local community. Boasting beautiful views of the valley and Steamboat ski mountain, the Steamboat Golf Club provides a serene and scenic backdrop for a relaxing round of golf.

The course layout presents a unique challenge, with only one par 4 measuring just over 400 yards. Although it may not be the longest course, it is well-defended by lush rough, a winding creek, small and tricky greens, and groves of mature cottonwoods that eagerly await any wayward shots. The Steamboat Golf Club is also one of the most enjoyable walking courses in the Rockies, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings.

What sets Steamboat Golf Club apart is its welcoming atmosphere, making it a fun and enjoyable 9-hole course for golfers of all ages and abilities. With a practice green available on-site and a scenic creekside deck perfect for a leisurely lunch or cold beverage after your round, the club offers a complete golfing experience. Open to the public and hosting a lively social calendar, Steamboat Golf Club continues to play an integral role in the local community, providing a delightful and memorable golfing experience in the heart of Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

9. Cedar Ridges Golf Course

• Location: Rangely

• Elevation: 5,297′

• Holes: 9

• Yardage: 3,433

• Designer(s): Frank Hummel

• Season: April to October

Escape the hustle and bustle of it all at Cedar Ridges Golf Course. Located on the outskirts of Rangely, this course sits atop sweeping mesas. The 9-hole, par-36 course leads golfers through large rolling hills and greens, water and sand traps and evergreens. 

Frank Hummel, who has created over 200 courses throughout the United States, designed the course. It offers a minimum of three tee boxes on each hole, making the course challenging enough for any experienced golfer, yet thoroughly enjoyable for novices, as well. 

Don’t miss this hidden gem on the Western Slope. The course is always in immaculate condition and provides a nice pro shop and restaurant. 

“I was extremely impressed with this beautiful course in such a small, remote rural town,” Margaret, a golfer, said. “It’s worth the drive.”

Play More, Save More: The Rocky Mountain Golf Card

The Rocky Mountain Golf Card provides free access for golf partners at some of the best mountain golf courses in Colorado.  

This summer, escape the ordinary and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you golf in Colorado’s stunning Rocky Mountains. Every one of the iconic courses on the Rocky Mountain Golf Card offers a different and invigorating experience to shake up your outdoor recreation routine and add more adventure to your season.

GLENWOOD SPRINGS – Child abuse is a topic that not many people wish to engage in conversation in, let alone, think about. But for the 250+ children annually from Garfield, Pitkin, Eagle, and Rio Blanco counties, it is fortunate that there is a dedicated team at River Bridge Regional Center, consisting of victim advocates, forensic interviewers, mental health therapists and medical providers, working hard to ease the anxieties of the child victims, help them, and their non offending family members, receive the services they need to heal.

“Many children live in abusive situations, not knowing life is any different. It’s not until they get older that they understand what happened to them was wrong” says Kat Stenquist, Program Director and forensic interviewer for River Bridge. Kat says that often cases come to River Bridge where children disclose abuse months to years after the abuse has happened.

“There are many reasons why a child may not disclose immediately. Education on the signs of abuse and abuse prevention is the best way to support children who may be the victims of abuse.” Each year, River Bridge presents to over 700 community members including: parents, educators, law enforcement, caseworkers, prosecutors, medical providers, and other mandatory reports. A mandatory reporter is required by law to report suspected situations where a child is being neglected or abused.

Through educating the community about an issue that affects our children, “we can provide support and services to negate the negative effects that child abuse can have in life – and hopefully we can put an end to child abuse altogether”. Kat also says that talking with the children that we love and care for about topics regarding body safety, touches that are okay, decency and consent and social media safety can also help prevent child abuse or cause children to tell sooner. These conversations can also help prevent problematic sexualized behaviors which have become more frequent in recent years.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and River Bridge encourages our community to show support for the children that are affected by abuse and/or neglect, support the everyday workers who engage with the children and families that need supportive services, and to educate yourself and the children you care for, about abuse prevention. Efforts to engage with the community start with planting pinwheels at the Garfield County Courthouse, downtown Glenwood Springs. The blue pinwheel is the symbol of Child Abuse Prevention Month. River Bridge will plant 271 pinwheels, one for each child they served in 2022. All are welcome to come to Veterans Memorial at the Courthouse at noon on April 1st to help plant pinwheels and receive free resources.

River Bridge is also partnering with three local arts nonprofits to provide a free arts and crafts workshop for children and families to “Create a Brighter Future”. River Bridge staff and volunteers will be on site at Bookcliff Arts Center in Rifle on April 22nd, The Art Base in Basalt on April 23rd, and The Carbondale Launchpad on April 30th. Free education and resources to help talk with your children about abuse prevention and unsafe situations will be provided along with light snacks to spur your creativity!

More information is available on their website.

While the child advocacy center is the primary mission of River Bridge, they also operate the adult sexual assault program, MountainWest SANE Alliance (MWSA), as a secondary mission. SANE stands for “Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner.” This service began in 2018 after having been discontinued in 2012 by an area hospital. Victims of sexual assault are able to receive a comprehensive medical exam, treatment, and evidence collection. Whether or not an adult victim follows through to make a police report, it’s essential they meet with a medical provider to receive a thorough physical exam and testing in order to prevent health issues in their future. Joni Owens, Medical Program Coordinator states, “The recovery a person goes through following a sexual assault is a very individualized process. We know that receiving care via a SANE exam and getting connected to community resources is a critical piece of that recovery and from moving from being a victim to being a survivor.” You may access more information aboutMWSA and how one can request a SANE exam on the River Bridge website.

Funding for River Bridge comes from grants and state and local victim services funds, donations, and an annual fundraising event. The event, called Imagine!, is on Saturday,
April 15th and will be held at The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW) in Basalt, from 6-9pm. The evening will feature food, beverages, a silent and live auction, and live music from A Band Called Alexis. Thanks to ACE Hardware of Carbondale, Alpine Bank, Bighorn Toyota, Gould Construction and Roaring Fork Furniture for being leading sponsors of the 8th annual event.

Executive Director Blythe Chapman said she hopes that in addition to raising funds for child abuse treatment and prevention, Imagine! will continue to help raise community awareness. “Child abuse is an unfortunate reality in our valley and we know it’s a difficult issue for people to acknowledge or even talk about,” she said. “But the good news is that River Bridge is here to help children and families, from the very beginning states of disclosure through treatment and into recovery.” Imagine…a community free of child abuse and sexual assault. Imagine…all children growing up to be happy, healthy and safe. Imagine…providing hope and support for the children, families, and adults that will come to River Bridge and/orMWSA this year. For more information about River Bridge or to make a donation to support their work with victims, please visit, www.riverbrigerc.org/

IF YOU GO…
What: Imagine! The 8th annual fundraiser benefiting River Bridge Regional Center
When: 6-9pm. Saturday, April 15
Where: The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW), 400 Robinson Street, Basalt
Cost: $100 per person, 21+ years old only
More information: Visit https://imagine-8.eventbrite.com, or call 970-945-5195.

Many people favor warmer months over the colder seasons, which is not surprising. When the weather outside is sunny and warm, people have more energy, and spending time outdoors will be much easier. 

You shouldn’t lose hope during the cold months, either. Every year has some cold seasons, which shouldn’t be a reason for completely stopping everything. Of course, sometimes you can have a break from everything and stay playing at an online casino. Still, this is not the only option there is.

Sometimes cold and fresh snow can offer great things

Sometimes cold weather can even be fun and fabulous. If you are into wintry sports like snowboarding, skiing, or ice skating, this is an absolute dream weather for you. Sometimes people can even be pleasantly surprised by extra crispy weather.

If you have not tried any of these classic winter sports before, this is the perfect time to do so. You will quickly notice why they are so popular. You can join a class aimed at beginners and start having fun.

You can spend a wintery day sledding if you have young children and want to have fun with them. Even though this activity is preferred by kids, it is just as fun as an adult.

Indoor sports fit for every weather

It’s good to remember that you don’t have to go outside to be active. There are plenty of different options if you look into indoor sports. These include all kinds of options, from swimming to going to the gym. Since you are going to be inside, the weather outside doesn’t matter at all. It can be as cold as possible, but you will undoubtedly stay warm with these options.

If the weather is bad, you can have fun at home

If the weather is so bad that you don’t want to leave your home even for a bit, you can always just stay in for the night. If you want, you can even exercise in your home. You can find a lot of great YouTube videos that will guide you through different exercises.

You should also remember that you don’t always need to exercise and stay active. You can just have a relaxing evening, playing fun different games. That way, you are ready to be active when the weather is a bit better again.

A new year means new goals and opportunities. For many people that means living a more fulfilling and active life. Luckily for the people who live in Colorado, they’ve got the best settings around them. If you’re a Coloradan that wants to pursue a new sport, or you’re living in another state and curious about the sports options of Colorado, you have come to the right place. Let’s have a look at the glorious Colorado outdoors sports.

Being active every day does require motivation. In that matter, you will have to find a sport that actually has meaning to you. Maybe most sports you know about, are from sports betting, which you do only through these types of activities. But to practice a sport yourself and keep the interest, you have to find the right sport. That said, it does not mean you have to give up your wagering interest if that’s your thing. In fact, you can check out what’s ahead in the march madness picks. 

Via the link, you can easily read sports news, covering many popular sports, events, and lots more. Check out the odds as well, if you have an interest. Click on the link above, for more info. 

The extreme sports of Colorado

Colorado is an adventure state, for outdoor enthusiasts. If you like thrilling activities, with lots of speed, concentration, and mind-blowing experiences, this state has it all. In the winter you can enjoy some of the best skiing conditions and places in the US. The most popular places for skiing and snowboarding are Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge, but you can also practice these winter sports in many other parts of Colorado. 

Another adventure sport in Colorado you can try is canyoning, which can be quite challenging. You can also do river rafting and rock climbing. Basically, Colorado is a haven for adventure seekers who like to go to the extreme. 

Enjoy more peaceful sports

All year around people do hiking around the state. With many thousands of hiking trails, ranging from beginner levels to advanced, short hikes, and long hikes. If you like to walk and you’re in love with the tranquil and dramatic nature, this too is a sport you can start doing in the year 2023. For more info about hikes, you find info online. 

The internet is full of exciting options when it comes to online casino games. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced gambler, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and provide hours upon hours of fun and excitement. From classic table games like blackjack and roulette to more modern video slots, these online casino games offer hours of good entertainment.

Exploring the Best Online Casino Games for Fun and Excitement

Here are the types of online casino games you can explore for fun:

• Slots – Slots are one of the most popular casino games around. They come with different themes and features. Whether you prefer classic 3-reel slots or modern 5-reel video slots, there’s always something you will like. 
• Blackjack – Blackjack is a classic card game that has been around for centuries. It’s easy to learn but difficult to master as it requires skill and strategy in order to win consistently. 
• Roulette – Roulette is another classic game that has been enjoyed by players for generations. The spinning wheel adds an element of suspense as players wait with anticipation for the ball to land on their lucky number. 
• Video Poker – Video poker combines elements from both slots and traditional poker into one exciting game. Players must make strategic decisions in order to maximize their chances of winning big payouts. 
• Live Dealer Games – Live dealer games bring the excitement of a real casino right into your home. You can interact with real dealers while playing your favorite table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and more.

A Few Things To Note When Playing Online Poker

When playing online poker, there are several key strategies that can help improve your chances of winning. One strategy is about “table selection” which involves choosing tables with players who have weaker skills than yours so that you can gain an advantage over them. Another strategy is “bankroll management” which involves setting limits on how much money you are willing to risk in each game or tournament so that if things don’t go your way, you won’t lose too much money at once. It’s important to stay focused when playing, and pay attention to what other players are doing so that you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

How To Decide Which Casino Games Are Best For You

When it comes to deciding which casino games are best for you, there are a few things to consider. First, think about your skill level and the amount of time you have available to play. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with simpler games like slots or video poker. These require less strategy and can be played quickly. If you have more experience, then table games such as blackjack or roulette may be better suited for you. Make sure the game you choose is one that appeals to your personal tastes and interests. After all, playing something enjoyable will make your gaming experience exciting.

Sports are a thrilling adventure for many people around the world. Whether they are indoor sports, field sports or adventure sports, it is common to find people gathering together, either to watch, play or bet on a sport. For instance, gamblers will gather at their favorite joints to discuss the latest NBA predictions, odds or picks from various sportsbooks, and bet on various games in the NBA league. All these activities are important for bringing people together. 

Colorado has seen a growing number of people who are getting more into adventure sports like mountain biking, skiing or adventure racing. This article highlights more about this growing love. 

Examining the Rising Interest in Mountain Biking in Colorado

Mountain biking has become increasingly popular in Colorado over the past few years, with more and more people taking to the trails. This is due to a combination of factors, including the stunning beauty of nature all across the state, the abundance of trails and parks, and the relatively mild climate. Mountain biking also offers an exciting way for people to explore their surroundings while getting some exercise at the same time. 

How Adventure Racing is Taking Off In Colorado

Adventure racing is quickly becoming one of the most popular outdoor activities in Colorado. Adventure races are typically multi-sport events that involve running, mountain biking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The courses can range from a few miles to hundreds of miles and can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete. Adventure racing has become increasingly popular in Colorado due to the diversity of the terrain and abundance of outdoor activities. With its rugged mountains, deep canyons, and vast vegetation, Colorado offers an ideal setting for adventure racers looking for a challenge. 

The Growing Popularity of Snowboarding in Colorado

Snowboarding has become increasingly popular in Colorado over the past few years, with more and more people taking up the sport. This is due to a combination of factors, including the state’s excellent snow conditions, its wide variety of terrain parks and resorts, and its vibrant snowboarding culture. Colorado is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, offering everything from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging backcountry runs. The state also boasts an impressive selection of terrain parks for all levels of riders, from beginners to experts. With events like Winter X Games Aspen, and Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships taking place in the state each year, it’s no wonder that so many people are drawn to this exciting winter activity.

The new year is here, and for many, it means trying new things. A lot of people are especially interested in starting a new sport since they have made some new year’s resolutions about changing their lifestyle. Regardless of the reason for starting a new sport, here are some fun options to try.

When looking for a new sport to try, you should always focus on what happens to interest you. You can be sure that if you are just forcing yourself to go to the gym because that’s what everyone else is doing, you will lose your motivation. Rather than doing what others do, it’s better to think about what excites you. For example, if you are interested in March Madness picks, maybe basketball would be a suitable option for you. Let’s take a better look!

Basketball and other traditional indoor sports

Basketball and other so-called traditional sports have a lot of fans. These include options such as football and ice hockey. Many people played these games when they were younger and are still interested in them when they are older.

If you are interested in starting one of these more traditional sports, it’s a good idea to look at what your hometown offers. You might even be surprised about all the options you find. Many teams have more relaxed sub-teams that you can join to start having fun. If you feel like this is out of your comfort zone, you can always ask a friend to join in some of the first classes.

Outdoors offer a lot of great opportunities

Indoor sports have a lot of pros. For example, they are never affected by the weather at all. Still, they are missing something that outdoor sports have. Doing any outdoor sports is extremely good for you in many ways. Regardless of whether it is fly fishing, hiking, running, or any other outdoor sport, you will get some fresh air.

This might sound obvious to most people, but you shouldn’t overlook the effect of fresh air. Especially nowadays, when many people work in offices and sit in front of the computer the whole day, getting some fresh air has a crucial impact on you.

Overall, when you are choosing a new sport for 2023, you should focus on its effects on you. The sport doesn’t have to make you sweat a lot for it to be effective. Use some time to find a sport that interests you, and you can notice its effects on you better than any other option.

Many careers require a lot of thought from a relatively young age. If someone wants to become a doctor in the future, they need to start working towards that goal early in school. Still, these types of careers are not as demanding as a career of a professional athlete.

A lot of people have done a sport as a hobby since they were young. There is still a huge difference compared to a professional athlete’s career. People need to start working hard to become professionals in sports when they are older. This is why many of the lower leagues are also followed by many people. This article will take a short look at different levels of sports, and explain why especially college basketball predictions get so much attention each year.

Highschoolers are already focused on the sport

When athletes enter high school, they can already see the switch in their sport. High school basketball is already at such a high level that important matches and leagues are followed even by professionals. Also, impressive achievements are noticed by everyone. 

The reason for this jump in level is that the students of a high school can even get some help for their future education if they succeed well in their sport. This is why the students start to take the sport much more seriously and pay more effort to their sport.

College basketball gathers a lot of attention

Since high school basketball is already at such a high level, it’s not surprising that college basketball gathers even more attention. In fact, the colleges take it so seriously that they try to gather the best possible roster even before the school year starts. This is why they give out scholarships for talented high school students and even try to get players from other countries.

College basketball includes one of the most popular tournaments in all of basketball. This is obviously March Madness, which gathers a lot of attention each year. March Madness takes place each March, and it’s an exciting single-elimination tournament. This means that each game has incredibly high stakes.

Professional athletes need to start working towards their goal from a young age

Every sport demands that athletes start their careers young so basketball is not an exception. If they succeed well during their college years, they can be bought into a professional team, in which they can start their career. This is why they need to start planning their career, especially while being young.

All Kids Dental adds a new pediatric dentist

All Kids Dental (AKD) happily welcomes Dr. Christian Peck to their dental team.  Dr. Peck’s experience, patience, and love of pediatric dentistry as well as his love for the mountain lifestyle make him the perfect addition to the AKD family.

Dr. Peck grew up in Coalville, UT, a small town 15 miles east of Park City.  His father coached the professional Burton Snowboard team, so he grew up on the slopes.  “We were on the mountain during the school year; we’d only go to school Monday-Thursday, and on Friday all the kids were taken to the slopes to ski and snowboard,” he said.  “My wife and kids are as excited to be living here as I am.  It’s so great and beautiful; we love the fall colors and we’re getting excited about the snow season and getting to know local families.”

Snowboarding wasn’t Dr. Peck’s only athletic outlet growing up.  He played a lot of sports in high school, including football, basketball, baseball, and track.  He met his wife, Mandy, in seventh grade.  The two became friends but lost touch when she moved her freshman year of high school (not to age Dr. Peck too much but this was before social media made keeping in touch easy).  After graduation, Dr. Peck went on a mission to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He returned home two years later and reconnected with his middle school soul mate through a mutual friend.  The two hit it off, once again, got married and had their first two children during his undergrad studies at Weber State University in Ogden, UT. They had their third child while he attended dental school at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in Richmond.

Dr. Peck completed a two-year pediatric dental residency at VCU, and joined a dental practice in Albuquerque, NM. It’s there they had their fourth child.  “We loved it in Albuquerque. The climate is great, and it was lots of fun, but for my family that loved being on the mountains snowboarding and skiing, it was difficult,” Dr. Peck said.  “My wife and I wanted to continue to grow our family in a smaller town like where we grew up and where we could hit the slopes as often as we liked.”  

Destinies aligned when the Peck family sought snowy mountain horizons and Dr. Allen at All Kids Dental sought a fourth pediatric dentist to join the team. When Dr. Peck and his wife, Mandy, came for the interview, they fell in love with the area.  “We had always planned to retire to a place like this, but once I did the interview we thought, ‘Why are we waiting so long to live where we want, when we have been given this opportunity now?’  All Kids Dental was a dream come true for us,” Dr. Peck said.

When asked why he chose pediatric dentistry as his specialty, Dr. Peck explained that it was because he always loved going to the dentist as a kid.  His best friend’s uncle was his dentist growing up and was a big inspiration in Dr. Peck’s career choice.  While attending dental school, Dr. Peck shadowed a general dentist and a pediatric dentist and found that he loved pediatric dentistry so much more than working with adults.

“The biggest satisfaction and joy I find as a kid’s dentist is helping apprehensive kids feel comfortable and safe through a procedure so they leave with a smile.  My goal is to make visiting the dentist a positive experience for kids so they grow into adults that feel comfortable going to the dentist.  I love when kids say “I can’t wait to come back” or parents telling me that their kids are excited to see me,” beamed Dr. Peck.  “I’m excited to serve the community of the Roaring Fork and Vail Valleys for many years to come.”

You can schedule an appointment to see Dr. Peck or any AKD dentist/Orthodontist at any of their three locations, in Eagle, Rifle, and Glenwood Springs.  With the addition of Dr. Peck, AKD is able to offer three new days in their different locations: Tuesdays in Eagle, Thursdays in Rifle, and Fridays in Glenwood Springs.  

Even better! The Eagle location is offering Half Off Tuesdays for November and December for families who have no dental insurance.  Any service is included, so make sure to book your appointment soon while spots remain.   “It’s such a cool program,” said Meg Houghton, Culture and Marketing Manager.  “While the cost of everything else is going up, All Kids Dental is lifting the financial burden during the holiday season to make sure kids get the treatments and care they need, especially during all the holiday sugar.” 

To learn more, visit akdsmiles.com.

It’s a rarity nowadays to find an old-fashioned family doctor and internal medicine specialist who provides independent healthcare services with a personal touch.

And as Rifle’s Dr. Tom Morton has decided to finally hang up his spurs at Rifle’s Outlaw Medical Arts, the torch is being passed to a new local provider who will be able to provide the same level of care for both existing and new patients.

Dr. Morton is retiring after practicing medicine in the Roaring Fork Valley and Western Slope for more than 50 years, and will also be having spinal stenosis surgery in November. Once he recovers, he and his wife Debra plan on traveling more, seeing family and working on their properties.

“We’re thankful for all the support we’ve received from everyone in the valley, and I will miss my loyal patients,” he says.

Dr. Morton began practicing at Glenwood Springs’ Glenwood Medical in 1972, and he and the equally well-known Dr. Robert Yajko were instrumental in hiring many of the physicians who worked both there and at Valley View Hospital. In 1988, Dr. Morton and his wife established Outlaw Medical Arts, making it one of the first satellite clinics for specialists in the Rifle area. Then returning to an area he loved dearly, Dr. Morton practiced internal medicine in the Roaring Fork Valley and Western Slope for more than 50 years.  

Debra Morton says her husband also loved taking care of the old ranchers and cowboys in the area, all of whom were strong, independent people with amazing stories. The couple say they were also blessed with the longevity of their hard-working patients, many of whom lived to be more than 100 years of age. 

Dr. Morton says he’s seen a lot of changes in the area over a half century, and says he’s excited to know that a young, capable clinician will be following in his footsteps. 

Trumon “Otto” Craft IV, MSN, NP-C, AAPCGNP, will be officially relaunching Morton’s practice in early October as TruCare Elevated Wellness, part of a small healthcare company also serving Steamboat Springs and the Eagle/Vail area. Otto is a nurse practitioner whose background is in adult primary care, though TruCare will also offer services including DOT and FAA medical exams, as well as referrals for medical cannabis.

“I have some very big shoes to fill, but I also want to help Dr. Morton have a nice exit from his longtime practice,” Otto says. “I really like what he does and when we first met, we really hit it off. I’m also excited as we’re one of the few examples of continuity in a small, local practice.”

“We will definitely stress quality over quantity when it comes to healthcare,” Otto adds. “Whatever the option, it’s a patient’s own healthcare decision. That’s why we also offer an option for medical cannabis evaluations, as a pain management option over opioids. We can evaluate and see if patients would be appropriate for that treatment.”

In time, Otto says he hopes to be able to find someone to help provide pediatrics services at the clinic; for now, TruCare specializes in patients aged 12 and over. TruCare’s services include annual physicals, sick visits and sports physicals, DOT exams, as well as direct primary care. Otto can do in-house lab draws for routine checks, and will also be able to provide FAA physicals in the near future.