Utah Travel Headlines Blog

Stay and Ski Deals Provide Great Savings

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:56:00 +0000

The Washington Post and other newspapers are touting new "stay and ski" deals at some Utah resorts. The lead for this Washington Post article described 2 deals at Brian Head Resort. The article headline and excerpts are giving below.

What's the Deal? This week's best travel bargains around the globe.

Two ski lodges in Brian Head, Utah, are offering ski-and-stay deals. The Grand Lodge at Brian Head, which opened in December, has an Apres Ski Package starting at $189 per night (plus $23 taxes) for Sunday-Thursday stays through April 11. The package includes lodging, two adult lift tickets per day and two appetizers per day at the Lift Lounge & Patio. Booked separately, the package would cost about $276 a night. Info: 435-677-9000.

Cedar Breaks Lodge and Spa (888-282-3327) has a three-night package for $340 (plus $35 tax) for Sunday-Tuesday arrivals through April 6. Deal includes lodging and four lift tickets. Room-only price typically starts at $120 a night, plus tax.

Ride the Wind - Utah Gains Reputation for Kite Sports

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:47:00 +0000

In this article, the Salt Lake Tribune say Utah is gaining an international reputation for kite sports. Below are excerpts.

Coming to Utah » Sustained winds, rolling hills and higher elevations combine to make parts of the state a drawing card for kite-propelled fun.

"I'm kiting in the Bay area on water and wanted to try snowkiting," said Muzik. "This is one of the best places in the States. It has high elevation, more good winds, nice rolling hills and no trees. It's well-known in the sport.

The annual U.S. Open Snowkite Masters event, scheduled for Feb. 25-28 in Fairview Canyon, draws about 70 competitors and another 100 or so spectators including folks from Norway, France and Germany. First prize is about $300. Participants race over a 3-mile course.

Read the entire article.

Spring in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:17:00 +0000

Nationalparkstraveler.com has this interesting article about visiting Arches and Canyonlands national parks during spring. Below are excerpts.

Arches and Canyonlands national parks are colorful siblings that are great to visit any time of year, but to spare yourself the high heat of summer one of the best seasons to visit is Spring.

Spring in the parks? Odds are great that the weather will be warm -- typical daytime highs in the parks are in the low 80s, nighttime lows in the 50s -- and sunny, so you'll definitely want shorts, T-shirts, a broad-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. Beyond that, hiking gear from boots to daypacks, water bottles or hydration systems and hiking sticks, perhaps some nice casual outfits for dining in Moab, and a shell jacket to deal with any rain or cool days that might arise.

These parks are almost like Jekyll and Hyde when it comes to negotiating them in a vehicle. Arches is small, not quite 80,000 acres, with one main paved road winding through it past most of the major geologic attractions. Canyonlands, by contrast, is a sprawling 337,598-acre park cleaved into three districts -- Island in the Sky, Needles, and the Maze, (four if you consider the Green and Colorado river corridors) -- that are somewhat far-flung and require a bit of windshield time to visit if you're traveling from one to another. None of this windshield time is boring, though, as the landscape you drive through is almost as stunning as that that lies within the parks' borders.

Spring-time activities run the gamut in these two parks. Certainly, hiking is the main attraction with endless miles of trails between the two. Some of the more popular hikes in Arches lead to Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Park Avenue, and the Windows Section. In Canyonlands, exploring the Island in the Sky with its trails to Whale Rock and ancient granaries on Aztec Butte can fill up half a day, while longer treks in the Needles District can fill several days and more. Traveling to the Maze District is more involved, as noted above, but if you have the time a hike down to the Great Gallery is certainly worth the effort.

Read the complete article.

Note: The Great Gallery is not located in the Maze District, but is an isolated canyon not off contiguous to any other part of the park. It is well worth the visit.

Zion Park Sets Record For Visitors in 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:01:00 +0000

(Note: The info below is from a press release provided by Zion National Park.)

Zion National Park Received Record Visitation in 2009

Zion National Park received a record number of visitors in 2009. Recorded visitation was 2,735,401, representing a 1.7 percent increase over 2008, the previous record year.

A portion of the increase in visitation may be attributed to the park’s Centennial celebration in 2009. Numerous Centennial events and programs brought visitors to the park throughout the year. In addition, the park’s backcountry continues to draw more visitors. In 2009, the number of backcountry users increased by 17.3 percent over 2008.

Visitation through the South and Kolob Canyons Entrances increased while visitation decreased through the East Entrance and in the Kolob Terrace section of the park. Compared to 2008, there was a 29 percent decrease in the number of visitors arriving by tour bus.

The park has set new visitation records four times since 2002. Since 1919, when the park was renamed Zion National Park, 88,904,937 visitors have entered the park. Visitation has exceeded 2 million per year since 1990. In the last decade alone, over 25 million people have visited Zion. The visitation records reveal that whether in good or challenging economic times, Zion National Park remains a very popular tourism destination.

Additional visitation information is available online at www.nature.nps.gov/stats.

Ski Utah With Travelocity Roaming Gnome

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:39:00 +0000

Utah edged out Tahoe in a Travelocity promotion to decide where it's Roaming Gnome would go to combat cabin fever.

People voters on the Gnome's Facebook page to decide the winner. And the results: 50.01% voted for Utah, 49.98% for Tahoe. Close, but Utah takes the prize.

More details about the contest will probably be released later today.

Ski conditions are wonderful right now at Utah resorts, and there are great deals to be had. Hotels and lodges near the resorts often sell out for President's Day weekend, but this year there is still plenty of availability.

Some very nice properties are offering specials right now. See our Ski Packages for details.

Bryce Canyon Winter Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:55:00 +0000

The popular Bryce Canyon Winter Festival will be held over Presidents' Day weekend - February 13-15, 2010.

Held at Bryce Canyon and nearby Ruby's Inn, the festival includes many popular winter sports and activities. Some of the more popular activities are listed below.

Snowshoe hikes
Astronomy workshops
Arts and crafts
Photography workshops
Archery biathlon
Cross country ski races
Kids snowboot races
Valentines dance

See the complete schedule. There is always food, music and fun.

See Bald Eagles on Feb 6 and Feb 13

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:10:00 +0000

Bald Eagle Day activities will be held in Utah on two consecutive Saturdays - Feb 6 and Feb 13. They provide great opportunity to observe bald eagles at fairly close range.

A large number of bald eagles winter in Utah - only a few stay in our state year round. So this is the best time to see the majestic birds.

Utah's Division of Wildlife Resources provided the info below:

Two chances to see bald eagles

On Feb. 6, eagle viewing will take place at sites in central and southwestern Utah. On the following Saturday, Feb. 13, Utah Bald Eagle Day will be celebrated at three sites—two in northern Utah and one in northeastern Utah.

There is no cost to attend Bald Eagle Day. Viewing times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except at the Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area site, where viewing will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

On Feb. 13, viewing will take place at the following locations:

Fountain Green State Fish Hatchery, located east of Nephi. If coming from the north, take I-15 and exit the freeway at the second Nephi exit (Exit 225). After exiting the freeway, turn east on SR-132 and travel about 10 miles. About 1 mile before the city of Fountain Green, a Bald Eagle Day sign will point you to an access road that leads to the hatchery.

Once you reach the hatchery, you'll be given a driving map of the Sanpete Valley that highlights the best areas in the valley to view eagles. Literature, displays and bathroom facilities will also be available at the hatchery. If eagles are near the hatchery, Division of Wildlife Resources staff will set up spotting scopes so you can view them. Spotting scopes will also be set-up at a viewing location about one mile from the hatchery.

Rush Lake Ranch, located on the Minersville highway (SR-130) about 12 miles north of Cedar City.

On Feb. 13, viewing will take place at the following locations:

Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area (Compton's Knoll), located about 10 miles northwest of Corinne. To reach the WMA, take Exit 365 off of I 15 and travel west on SR-83 through Corinne. Stay on SR-83 until you get to 6800 W. (Iowa String). Travel north to 6800 N. Travel west on 6800 N. until you reach the Salt Creek WMA/Compton's Knoll Watchable Wildlife site.

Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area, located on the west side of Farmington at 1325 W. Glover Lane (925 South).

In addition to seeing eagles at the WMA, you can also participate in activities that will be held at the Great Salt Lake Nature Center at the north end of the WMA. The activities include a bake sale and fun, hands-on activities for children. The activities—each centered around a bald eagle theme—will begin at 9 a.m. and run through most of the day. You can also see live birds of prey and watch a slideshow presented by HawkWatch International.

In addition to participating in the activities, you can learn more about becoming a volunteer at the WMA. Volunteers lead birding tours and help with other projects.

If you're traveling north on I-15, coming from Salt Lake City and other areas south of Farmington:

To reach the WMA, travel north on I-15, and exit the freeway at Exit 325. Turn left on Park Lane and travel west. The road will angle to the south, and you'll come to Clark Lane at the first traffic light. Turn right. Travel west to the first stop sign, which is at 1525 West, and turn left. Travel south to Glover Lane, and turn right. Travel west on Glover Lane for about two blocks until you come to 1700 W. Turn left on 1700 W. and travel south to the Great Salt Lake Nature Center. You can park in the parking lot.

If you're traveling south on I-15, coming from Ogden and other areas north of Farmington:

To reach the WMA, travel south on I-15 and exit the freeway at Exit 325. Go to the stoplight and turn right on Park Lane. Travel south to the next light, which is at Clark Lane, and turn right. Travel west to the first stop sign, which is at 1525 West, and turn left. Travel south to Glover Lane, and turn right. Travel west on Glover Lane for about two blocks until you come to 1700 W. Turn left on 1700 W. and travel south to the Great Salt Lake Nature Center. You can park in the parking lot.

Split Mountain/Green River, located north of Jensen and below the Dinosaur Quarry in Dinosaur National Monument (DNM). To reach the site, drive north from Highway 40 in Jensen on the road (SR 149) to the Dinosaur Quarry.

Your first stop should be at the staging area located just inside the DNM boundary. Displays and spotting scopes will be available at the staging area, and you might be able to see bald eagles and other raptors in the distance.

You can also see live birds close up! At least one live bird of prey—and maybe even as many as three—will be on display at the staging area.

From the staging area, biologists will direct you to other sites where you may have better views of eagles and other wildlife of interest. In past years, visitors have seen bald and golden eagles hunting and feeding, as well as prairie falcons, hawks, mule deer, river otters, pheasants, turkeys, sandhill cranes, porcupines, mergansers, Canada geese and other wildlife.

During your trip, you may also want to stop and visit the Dinosaur National Monument. The monument's dinosaur quarry is closed, but you can see a few dinosaur bones at a temporary visitor center near the quarry. The visitor center also includes a small bookstore.

Get a close look
"We'll set spotting scopes up at each viewing site so you can get a good look at the eagles," says Bob Walters, Watchable Wildlife coordinator for the DWR. "Biologists and volunteers will also be on hand to help you spot the eagles and to answer any questions you have."

Information about bald eagles, and wildlife watching and birding opportunities in Utah, will be available at each location. The materials will be available for free, or for a small cost.

The best time to attend
The best time to see eagles on Feb. 6 and Feb. 13 depends on two things.

If you want to attend during the warmest time of the day, attend late in the morning or early in the afternoon. "The warmer temperatures are especially important if you bring young children with you," Walters says.

Late morning and early afternoon also provide the clearest times of the day to see the eagles.

If you want to see the greatest number of eagles, attend between 2 and 4 p.m. "In mid-afternoon, the eagles start flying to trees to roost for the night," Walters says. "If you want to see the greatest number of eagles, mid to late afternoon is usually the best time to attend."

Items to bring
If you attend Bald Eagle Day, dress in warm clothes and bring waterproof boots. Also, if you want to get pictures of the eagles, bring a telephoto lens.

"The eagles will be some distance from the viewing areas," Walters says. "In the past, we've had photographers try and get close to the eagles. They ended up scaring the eagles away."

Utah's most popular viewing event
Walters started Bald Eagle Day in 1990 as a way to introduce people to Utah's wildlife. "Bald Eagle Day was started to arouse people's interest, whet their appetite and make them aware of the wildlife around them," Walters says.

Since it began, Bald Eagle Day has become Utah's most well attended, and one of its most enjoyed, wildlife-viewing events.

For more information about Bald Eagle Day, call Walters at 801-538- 4771, or Division of Wildlife Resources offices in Ogden, Springville, Vernal or Cedar City.

Travelocity Pits Utah Against Tahoe

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 19:19:00 +0000

Travelocity has an interesting promotion going, asking viewers to help its "Roaming Gnome" decide where to go to cure cabin fever.

The Gnome is debating whether to ski in Utah or Tahoe. Travelocity is asking fans to become a Facebook friend of the Gnome and vote for their favorite destination. One lucky voter will win a ski trip for two. Go here to friend the Gnome and vote.

Ski Utah is encouraging its fans to get out and vote. Local newspapers are also on the stump. Below are just a few of the many headlines being generated:

'Roaming Gnome' might ski Utah
Travelocity Gnome debates between Tahoe and Utah
Where should a gnome roam? Utah or Lake Tahoe?
Bring Travelocity's Roaming Gnome to Tahoe, vote today

First Tracks! Online Ski Magazine has this more balanced report. Below are excerpts.

"Winning this competition could mean great things for Utah and its wonderful ski resorts," says Jessica Kunzer, Director of Communications for Ski Utah. "Please vote today!"

"There really is no comparison," adds Shawn Stinson of the Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Taking into account Salt Lake City International Airport’s accessibility, skiing and/or snowboarding on 'The Greatest Snow On Earth', and the ability to experience a truly unique après-ski experience in Salt Lake City -- excellent dining and nightlife, fabulous cultural arts, pro sporting events, etc. -- the choice is quite simple: a Ski Utah vacation wins hands-down."

The folks marketing Lake Tahoe skiing have come out swinging as well.

"We are asking for the public to help vote for Lake Tahoe and steer the Roaming Gnome in the right direction towards a totally unique and diverse destination that offers a ski vacation experience he'll never forget," said John Wagnon, president of Ski Lake Tahoe. "Given his rock star lifestyle and taste for the finer things in life, we think the Roaming Gnome would prefer to relish in Lake Tahoe's head-high powder, experience the late nights at our 24/7 casinos and night clubs and work on a sunny California goggle tan after some bluebird powder days."

The Little-Known Little Arch In Red Cliffs Reserve

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 21:46:00 +0000

Utah is famous for its natural arches - gravity-defying spans of stone that arc above a gapping void where rock has eroded away.

I find them fascinating. They are always beautiful and I enjoy hunting them down.

I was a bit surprised when I stumbled upon the little-know beauty shown the photos that illustrate this blog. It is located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, near St George, in a region where there aren't many arches.

Arches National Park has the largest concentration of natural arches in the world. There are also a few well-known arches scattered through Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Grand Staircase, Glen Canyon and the San Rafael Swell. But Southwestern Utah has only a few, including massive Kolob Arch in Zion Park. Kolob Arch was long thought to be the largest arch in the world, until careful measurements showed it is slightly smaller than delicate Landscape Arch.

The Red Cliffs Reserve includes an area south of I-15, east of St George. It is protected because it contains critical habitat for the desert tortoise and other species.

The arch is located in an area of sand and sandstone, east of what is called the Babylon Road (east of the town of Leeds). A primitive camping area has been designated up against the red rock. From the camping area a trail drops south down to the Virgin River. The trail cuts between sandstone fins and other features.

If you follow that trail you will go right under the arch. The trail is obvious and easy to follow. It involves some mild scrambling. It is only about 1/2 mile to the arch.

This is a great area for winter hikes. It's also popular for riding horses. Access road is sandy. You need a high clearance vehicle to drive close to the campground. Depending on conditions, you may need a 4X4 to get right up to the campground.

I took these photos in mid-January and conditions were great for hiking. Summer temperatures get very hot.

Sheriff 's deputies patrol the area occasionally. They come in on horseback - that's the most efficient means of locomotion in the sand and rock.

It's a fun spot worth exploring.

- Dave

Utah Blaze Are Back

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 18:11:00 +0000

The Utah Blaze are back and will begin playing arena football on April 9th.

The Blaze will play in the Arena Football One league. The E Center is their home. The team is coached by Ernesto Purnsley and is owned by Dave Affleck.

ABC4 has this news story about the team. Below are excerpts.

The Utah Blaze played three seasons under different ownership in the Arena Football League (AFL) before the league ceased operations in December 2008. Now the team, under new ownership, is back as a member of the newly formed Arena Football One.

“We have a lot to live up to. The Blaze was a great team and a great organization and they were one of the most thought of organizations in the AFL. We’re working to do our best to do everything that the Blaze stood for,” Affleck said.

Arena Football One, which was organized by the people who originally established the AFL 23 years ago, bid for the assets of the AFL, including trademarks and logos, and in December 2009 won the bid, paving the way for the use of the Blaze name.

See the team website for the schedule and other information.

Still Time For A Sundance Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 20:07:00 +0000

The Sundance Film Festival is generating plenty of hype - from star sightings to movie finds. The festival runs through Jan 31, so there is still time to get in on the fun.

See the festival website for schedules and tips on how to do Sundance.

The LA Times has this interesting collection of photos from the festival.

Countless news articles are being published daily giving Sundance glitz and gossip.

Below are some of my favorite headlines:

- Bill Gates spotted table-dancing at Sundance party?
- Sundance Films Turn Cameras on the Paparazzi
- Jon Gosselin displays diva tendencies at Sundance
- Fergie and Josh Duhamel: Sundance Bound

New Snow Creates Great Ski Conditions, High Avalanche Danger

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 20:54:00 +0000

Ski conditions are great at all of our resorts, after massive snowfall last week. Many resorts received 2 or 3 or 4 feet of new snow. Fresh powder fell virtually every day last week. Another storm is expected to move in tomorrow and Wednesday. See our snow report for the latest totals.

Avalanche danger is high on steep slopes in backcountry areas all around the state. A man died in an avalanche yesterday while skiing out of bounds near Snowbasin. Read details.

Avalanche control work is performed regularly at developed ski resorts and along major roadways, so danger is minimal in those locations. In other areas danger is high. See the Utah Avalanche Center website for info and tips on how to stay safe in the backcountry.

Monster Storm Dumps on Southern Utah

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 22:06:00 +0000

Schools were closed in southeastern Utah today because of heavy snow. Susan Taylor sent us the photo at right, which shows the view from the Courthouse window in Monticello. She said there was about 3 feet on the ground and more coming. See more of her photos.

Heavy snow is expected through Saturday in mountain areas throughout Utah. Valleys could also receive heavy snow. The St George area has received heavy rain.

A winter storm warning is in effect until 8 am Saturday for SE Utah. Other storm warnings are in effect for other areas of Utah. Check weather conditions before traveling.

Brian Head Resort near Cedar City picked up 22 inches of snow during a 48-hour period. Solitude, near Salt Lake City, picked up 25 inches during that period, with more coming.

Desert Pearl Inn Named Best in US for Families

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:10:00 +0000

TripAdvisor.com has released its 2010 Travelers' Choice Awards, listing top properties in a number of categories based on millions of real and unbiased reviews and opinions from travelers posted on its website.

The Desert Pearl Inn, located just outside Zion National Park, was named the 2nd best family hotel in the world and the top family hotel in the US.

The top family hotel in the world is the Sirkeci Konak Hotel in Turkey, according to the website.

We congratulate the Desert Pearl and its staff.

See the full Tripadvisor.com listings.

Toroweap In Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:05:00 +0000

I like winter - I like snow and snow sports. But this winter has been exceptionally cold. In northern Utah the skies have long been grey from storm and smog.

I've been itching to get away, to take a timeout from winter. So we loaded the Jeep and headed south, to a remote area called Toroweap, in the backcountry in Grand Canyon National Park. We drove backroads, hiked, enjoyed amazing views and soaked up the sunshine. It was a great trip over the long holiday weekend.

Toroweap is one of Grand Canyon's most dramatic viewpoints because the cliffs are sheer, almost completely vertical, falling some 3,000 feet to the Colorado River. In most other areas the canyon is wide and it stairsteps to the bottom. For example, at the famous South Rim, the canyon is about 10 miles wide and it falls off a series of terraces before reaching the river.

At Toroweap the canyon is only 1 mile wide and there are no stairsteps. It's pretty much straight down. There are no guardrails and standing on the edge is a dizzying experience. People who are afraid of heights stand way back.

At an elevation of about 4,540 feet, Toroweap is one of the lowest viewpoints at Grand Canyon. The North Rim visitor area elevation is 8,220 feet and it is closed during winter because of heavy snow. The popular South Rim has an elevation of about 7,040 feet. It gets considerable snow but is open year-round.

Toroweap seldom gets snow. Roads and trails are open year-round, except possibly during and immediately after severe storms. It is a great destination for winter hikes. We were there during the middle of January and daytime temperatures were very pleasant. We quickly shed our sweatshirts as the temperature climbed into the mid-50s.

Some winter days there are colder - you've got to watch the weather and hike during mild periods. But the area is often dry and mild when northern Utah is frigid or stormy.

Summers get very hot. Spring and fall are ideal times to hike.

We chose to stay in Kanab and make a day trip to Toroweap. We also made day trips to explore other areas. Kanab makes a great base camp to explore area national parks, monuments and recreation areas.

There is a nice primitive campground at Toroweap. Nicer that I expected. It offers camp sites, picnic tables and pit toilets, but no water or other facilities. There is a group site that can be reserved; other sites are available on a first-come basis, with no fee charged.

We hiked the Tuckup Trail, searching for a unique panel of ancient rock art. Called the Sharman Panel, the rock art is difficult to find. We tried and failed, running out of daylight before we had a chance to do an extensive search. With these short days, we just didn't have time.

So now I want to go back. On my next trip I'll camp at Toroweap so I have plenty of time to explore. I'll find the rock art and also make the steep hike down the rim to Lava Falls on the mighty Colorado River.

We never saw another person during our trip. Not another vehicle. As we hiked away from the overlook, all footprints faded. We hiked miles of trail where there were deer tracks but no human footprints.

It's a great area - I can't wait to get back down there.

- Dave Webb

The St. Regis Deer Crest Resort Opens At Deer Valley

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 22:49:00 +0000

The new St. Regis Deer Crest Resort is in full operation at Deer Valley - the newest luxury resort in that exclusive community.

St. Regis provided the information below. Visit the resort website for more information.

Nestled within the majestic solitude of a mountain’s beauty lives a world where unmatched amenities and gracious hospitality are rivaled only by nature’s cobalt skies and perfectly powdered ski slopes. St. Regis is proud to announce the debut of The St. Regis Deer Crest Resort, the newest address in a family of iconic destinations. Join the privileged few and be amongst the first to witness this extraordinary new chapter in the remarkable St. Regis legacy.

The resort is situated slope-side to Deer Valley’s breathtaking 2,026 acres of skiing paradise. While in residence, guests may access the resort by skis, car, or by the state-of-the-art European-crafted funicular tram. At The St. Regis Deer Crest, no detail has been overlooked. Even mountainside, guests will find a thoughtful atmosphere and impeccable service. The St. Regis butler will be present at all times, catering to each individual wish.

The Stars Come Out For Sundance

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 23:04:00 +0000

The Sundance Film Festival begins this week with activities in Park City and other communities. It runs Jan 21-31.

Over the years, the festival has attracted many notable movies and stars. The Deseret News has this article about the history of the festival and the people who make it successful. Below are excerpts.

Ground zero for star central.

That's how one Deseret News reporter referred to the streets and sidewalks of Park City for the 10 days each January when the Sundance Film Festival captures the attention of the film world.

For more than a quarter of a century, independent filmmakers have been coming to Sundance seeking an audience.

Just last year, festival organizers expressed dismay about "the celebrity- and paparazzi-laden sideshow that's become a real distraction from the Sundance Film Festival," wrote Deseret News film critic Jeff Vice.

"In fact, Redford calls such behavior 'sad and unfortunate,' insisting that it detracts from the festival's true artistic intentions.

"But despite their best efforts, the so-called star-gazing continues to remain as big a presence as the films themselves."

Read the entire article.

Lake Powell Promotion Offers Best-Ever Houseboat Rates

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 18:38:00 +0000

If you are looking for a great summer vacation deal, consider booking now for a Lake Powell Houseboat.

You can save 50% off houseboat rentals when you book now through Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.

LA Times Travel blogger Susan Derby posted this information about the promotion. Here are excerpts:

These rates represent, according to a company statement, “the best houseboating rates ever offered at Lake Powell.” In addition, lake levels are currently high, said Cathy McKeever, director of sales and marketing for ARAMARK Parks and Destinations. The promotion code for this deal is “TAKE50.”

When: Book your boat by Jan. 18, for travel between March 12 and Oct. 12

Tested: I found the online reservations system a little unwieldy, so I called in for reservations help. For five days and four nights in late April, I was told a 46-foot Voyager (sleeps up to eight) would cost $1,429, and a 53-foot Adventurer (sleeps up to 12) would cost $1,787. These prices include taxes.

See the Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas specials page for details.

Utah Office Of Tourism Launches Winter TV Ad Campaign

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 19:03:00 +0000

Utah's Office of Tourism has launched a 20-day national cable advertising campaign highlighting winter tourism. The 30-second commercial spots, created by Struck/Axiom, star the reoccurring “snowflake characters” who are deemed worthy to fall on Utah slopes by a humorous snow judge.

"With the media turning its attention to winter sports and the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, Utah’s own Olympic legacy is being remembered. Now is the perfect time to promote the strengths of Utah's ski product," said Spencer Eccles, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

The television ads are airing on eight cable networks, including Fox News, History, Bravo, Food Network, A&E, ESPN, Travel Channel, and MSNBC. These ads are part of an overall $1.2 million campaign, which includes an online effort that began in November. The online ads also bring attention to the dining, shopping, nightlife, and family fun available during the winter season – all elements of the Utah Life Elevated® brand.

More details

View some of the Snowflake Ads

Sundance Resort Named Top Celebrity-Owned Hotel in the World

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 23:35:00 +0000

Utah's Sundance Resort tops the list of the top 10 celebrity-owned hotels in the world, as determined by TripAdvisor editors and travelers. See the rankings here.

About Sundance, TripAdvisor says:

Recommended by TripAdvisor travelers for: Romantic Retreat, Honeymoon

Situated at the base of Mount Timpanogos on 6,000 acres of rolling hills and babbling brooks, the Sundance Kid's retreat has TripAdvisor travelers raving about the resort's rustic beauty, excellent service, and outdoor activities. "Robert Redford did us all a favor by opening this resort, remaining loyal to nature, and preserving the beauty of the canyon," noted one TripAdvisor traveler.

Robert de Niro's Greenwich Hotel in NYC came in second. Olivia Newton-John's Gaia Retreat & Spa, located in Australia, placed third.

Visa Freestyle International World Cup Comes To Deer Valley

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 23:02:00 +0000

The 2010 Visa Freestyle International World Cup will be held at Deer Valley Resort next weekend, January 14-16.

Deer Valley has this information about the event.

The Ski Channel has this report. Below are excerpts.

More than 300 freestyle athletes will be descending onto Deer Valley Resort next weekend, as the ski resort will host the 2010 Visa Freestyle International World Cup, from Thursday, January 14-Saturday, January 16. The event is the second-to-last stop for athletes before the Olympic Games, and will take place on Deer Valley's lower Bald Eagle Mountain, above the Snow Park Lodge.

An evening celebration will begin (Jan 14) at 7 pm on Park City's Historic Main Street, including live entertainment by The Bravery followed by fireworks. Free parking will be available Deer Valley Resort. Please utilize the free Park City bus transportation to and from Main Street.

All events are free to the public. For those guests looking for an enhanced spectator experience, Freestyle Feast tickets are still available for Thursday's moguls competition for $65.

Historic Agreement Protects Nine Mile Canyon Rock Art, Allows Nearby Natural Gas Development

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 17:56:00 +0000

A truce has been called in the long battle over development in the Nine Mile Canyon area, with the various participants agreeing to specific measures to protect the canyon's ancient rock art while still allowing natural gas development nearby.

The agreement is highly significant for that particular canyon, and may also signify various interest groups are willing to negotiate and compromise about other sensitive areas -- an attitude that has been lacking in the all-or-nothing war over environmental protection for vast amounts of land in southern Utah.

The agreement generated news stories carried by various media around the world. Utah's Deseret News has this comprehensive article. Below are excerpts.

With much fanfare, back-slapping and congratulatory smiles, an agreement loftily described by many as historic, precedent-setting and landmark was signed by a multitude of people with vested interests in Nine Mile Canyon.

With its 50 miles of prehistoric rock art and its proximity to natural gas fields, the canyon has for years been at the center of a tug-of-war between cultural resource preservationists and those who seek to tap the adjacent land rich with energy resources.

"It's a diverse group who was able to reach a consensus in a relatively short period of time," said the Bureau of Land Management's Mike Stiewig, who oversees the agency's office in Vernal. Gesturing toward the room full of people that included energy company executives, archaeologists and representatives from the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, Stiewig said the diversity of attendees — and agreement supporters — underscored a milestone achievement in collaboration.

"This is a beautiful example of how it should be done," she said. "The law is for the public because these resources belong to the public."

Under the agreement, Barrett must embrace an aggressive dust-suppression plan and require its 35 employees in that area, as well as subcontractors, to be schooled in mitigating any impacts to cultural resources as a result of their activities. Additionally, the corporation will fund a cultural resource inventory of the area and participate in the creation of a visitor interpretation site featuring walking paths and informational kiosks.

For some, the agreement is a bittersweet compromise that nevertheless gives them voice and a chance to weigh in on concerns as they may arise.

See the Dew Tour At Snowbasin Ski Resort

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:03:00 +0000

The popular Winter Dew Tour competition will come to Snowbasin Jan 15-17. Spectators can witness the action free of charge. A premium viewing area is available for a limited number of people willing to pay for admission.

This web page has a schedule of events and information for spectators.

Ogden's Standard.net has this article about the competition. Below are excerpts.

Eight years after the 2002 Winter Olympics, Snowbasin will again be in the national and international spotlight when the prestigious Winter Dew Tour comes to town this month for a four-day ski and snowboard competition featuring some of the biggest airs and most technical tricks being performed today.

In just its second season this year, the Winter Dew Tour is already recognized as one of the more elite competitions outside the Olympics and X Games.

The Showboat run, which is being used for the slopestyle competition, will be off-limits to regular visitors for the weekend. But overall, disruptions should be minimal, Andrus said.

Ski Park City During Sundance

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 19:42:00 +0000

The Sundance Film Festival will be held Jan 21-31. Centered in Park City, this year's festival will include parties and screenings at various places around northern Utah and also screenings at a few other US cities.

The Dallas Morning News has this article describing how to do Sundance. The article also describes how to enjoy Park City's great skiing during the crazy festival days. Below are excerpts.

This star-trolling duo has ventured to Park City for the Sundance Film Festival. Clad in designer fashions, not ski togs, they epitomize why festival days have become an ideal time for skiers. The town is packed with stargazers, not slope sliders.

I catch an early flight Wednesday morning, and because I pre-registered for Park City's Quick Start program, I receive a free, arrival-day lift ticket by flashing my boarding pass and out-of-state I.D. Two hours after leaving baggage claim, I'm at the Canyons, carving turns.

A mini-mansion subdivision with ski runs, Deer Valley features star-worthy homes at base and midmountain levels. Surely if I'm going to sight a celebrity on the slopes, it will be here. But I spot nary a one. In fact, I see very few folks at all.

"Where is everyone?" I ask.

"They're watching movies," Voelker says. "If you want to ski and you're a big moviegoer, this is a perfect time to come."

Open tickets may be purchased starting Jan. 18 online or in town at the main box office. Day-of-the-show tickets are available each morning starting at 8 a.m. Depending on the number of no-shows, seats to sold-out shows may be available to wait-list patrons at the theater. Contact: Sundance Ticketing Hotline, 435-776-7878; www.sundance.org

Splitboarding is Catching On in Utah's Backcountry

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 18:11:00 +0000

The New York Times has this interesting article about splitboarding. The article describes a splitboarding trip through Utah backcountry, and gives tips for people interested in getting into the sport. Below are excerpts.

For snowboarders without the budget or inclination to use a snowmobile or helicopter, and in places where motorized vehicles are prohibited, splitboarding has exploded as the best way to ride beyond a resort’s boundaries.

Splitboards are specialized snowboards that separate into a pair of mountain touring skis; they are equipped with a mounting kit that allows standard bindings to switch from a sideways snowboard stance to a forward-facing, free-heeled touring-ski operation. Add collapsible ski poles and climbing skins (a fabric attached to the touring skis to give traction as you ascend steep slopes), and the splitboard gives snowboarders the freedom to travel anywhere that a backcountry skier can.

Mount Tuscarora was my first splitboard experience. At the base of the climb in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Mr. Coulter demonstrated how to split the board in half, fasten the bindings in ski mode and attach the climbing skins. Two hours later we reached the summit. (I’d hiked the same route by foot earlier in the winter, and it had taken almost twice as long.)

We completed the tour by riding down the Big Cottonwood side, returning to Salt Lake City on the No. 960 bus, part of a municipal system that serves the area. It was about a 20-minute ride.

“There’s this whole loop you can do with the bus system that’s amazing,” said Mr. Downing, who described busing up one canyon, touring over and catching the bus back down the other canyon at the end of the day. “You never have to ride at a ski resort if you don’t want to, or you can go to a resort, take one lift up and access all that backcountry.”

Note: Avalance danger is high right now in Utah's backcountry. Check here for current information and avalanche advisories.