Monday, June 15, 2009

Copper Mt. Stables to Remain Open

Copper Stables will be able to continue operating this year, after earlier concerns that a redevelopment project at Copper Mountain's base area might affect the popular trail-riding operation.

Copper Mountain last week submitted an application to the county for the horse staging area at Union Creek. The resort master plan allows for that use in the area, so the county will be able to approve the operation with an internal staff review without planning commission hearings, according to planning director Jim Curnutte.

As part of an extensive base-area plan, Copper will tear down the existing stables and create a wetlands on the site. The project will compensate for the loss of wetlands nearby as the resort expands parking in the Union Creek area. More parking at Union Creek is an important piece of the resort's goal of providing better service to families and beginning skiers.

Under the county permit, the wetlands project is required as part of the parking lot expansion.Stables operator

Leslie Miller, of Copper Stables, said several weeks ago she was having a hard time finding a new spot for the staging area.

Her horses will be quartered in a corral in the Corn parking lot, along Highway 91, but the staging area at Union Creek will enable her wranglers and customers to easily access the trails at the other end of the resort.

For information about Copper Mountain Stables, call (970) 968-2232.

Monday, June 01, 2009

Mountain Outfitters Hosts "Gear Drive"

Mountain Outfitters in Breckenridge is set to host a gear drive on June 13 to benefit a community foundation — Homeless Gear.

The gear drive starts at 9 a.m. at 112 S. Ridge St.

The foundation collects unwanted outdoor gear such as packs, sleeping bags and tents and distributes items to people without permanent shelters.

Outdoor vendors, including Black Diamond, Big Agnes, Mountain Hardwear and Osprey, will preview new tents and sleeping bags at the event.

One percent of all sales at Mountain Outfitters will go to 1% for the Planet — an alliance of businesses financially committed to creating a healthy planet.

Everyone who donates items will also be entered into a raffle to win a new tent and sleeping bag. The drawing is scheduled for 5 p.m.