Livin' in Driggs, Idaho

Doin' It All, Teton Winter Style

2012-02-05T13:49:00.002-07:00

This is my 18th winter here in Driggs, Idaho, and it's the mildest I've experienced. We're taking advantage of the unusual number of sunny days, and enjoying the Teton scenery in a variety of ways. Bridger is digging it during this Nordic ski outing on the groomed Alta, Wyoming track last week.

Last weekend was perfect timing for snowmobiling. A series of storms had moved through over the previous ten days, leaving several feet of fresh powder. Mike, Chad and I waited for the avalanche risk to subside, then headed out into the Teton backcountry just east of Driggs. Several hours of exploring, playing, climbing, and carving turns brought 360-degree views, tired bodies, and perma-grins. Ahhh...

I love the perspective snowmobiling brings. In just a few hours, you cover miles of terrain and can see forever. I understand the topography in the high country better after every ride, and it makes me psyched to live here.

It has been the winter of the snowbike: below average snowfall, cold nights to make the trails firm, and sunny days for scenery & smiles. The ranks of local participants is growing, and a bunch of us tackled the Horseshoe-to-Packsaddle ride this weekend. Conditions were ridiculously perfect. The ladies all posed for a postcard photo here, while the guys stayed out of the way.

It's also basketball season, and we have good pickup games two nights a week in Driggs, plus I play in a league over in Jackson. My brother Mark spent a couple of years working with me here ten years ago, and returned last week to join our old team in Jackson. It was a highlight, and we got the win in overtime.

Here's to more sunny days, snow, and Teton scenery.

Snowmobiling the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail: Buddies, Beauty, and Bear Dens

2012-01-27T21:45:00.001-07:00

(I originally wrote this story for Jackson Hole Magazine's Winter 2012 edition. It is reprinted here with their permission - RL)

We’re huffing and puffing, at 10,000 feet, in twelve feet of snow. My triathlon training doesn’t seem to be helping here. As we gasp for air trying to lift his stuck snowmobile, our understated Wyoming guide calmly proclaims ‘we should try to keep it quiet folks, ‘cause this appears to be a bear den right here.’ Claw marks on surrounding trees drive the point home, and we resume working with silent urgency.

It’s a mid-February boys weekend on the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail, with Togwotee Mountain Lodge as our base. We’ve come from several different states and backgrounds, with the common denominators of friendship and a love for snowmobiling in the high country. With a couple of decades in the outdoor and snowmobile industries, plus a home in nearby Teton Valley, Idaho, I’ve been here a few times before. There’s no place I’d rather spend a weekend like this.

My good friend Jon is the ringleader and trip coordinator. I’ve been working in Park City, Utah for much of the winter, and drive up for the occasion. Andy flies in from Phoenix, packing every piece of insulated clothing he owns, and I pick him up at the Jackson airport. Greg drives from Montana to Driggs, Idaho, where he joins Jon, Mo, and Mike. They load snowmobiles into Mo’s trailer, hook onto Mike’s truck, and roll. We all arrive at Togwotee Lodge within an hour of each other, and kickoff the weekend properly over happy hour. The stories will only get better.

The week leading up to our trip was the coldest of the season. Fortuitously, a storm rolled in the day before our visit, replacing below-zero temperatures with two feet of fresh snow and sunshine. Year-to-date snowfall is at near-record levels, and we’re itching to experience it.

The Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail (CDST) comprises over six-hundred miles of continuous groomed riding trails, all in Wyoming. Running from South Pass near Lander on the south, north near Dubois and Pinedale, then onward to Flagg Ranch and the entrance to Yellowstone Park on the north, it bisects some of the wildest terrain in the lower forty-eight states. Endless off-trail riding beckons along the way, and it is truly a powder, hillclimbing, and tree riding paradise. Because of the sheer scale of the area and the frequent whiteout snowstorms, guides are recommended even for experienced riders.

I’ve been riding since childhood, but erratically the last twenty years. My earliest memory is putting an Alouette sled together in the garage with my dad, at age five. For the next fifteen years, I’d come home from school or work or ball games or dates, and ride up into the northern Utah mountains. My Irish Setter dog Rusty would usually accompany me, and we’d simply sit and think, watching the world go by far below. I still draw from that perspective, and have been drawn to mountain top views ever since.

We’ll get plenty of views riding the CDST from Togwotee Lodge. Brent, our guide, quickly sizes us up and leads us into the backcountry. We’re all on 800cc mountain sleds, giving us plenty of power plus aggressive tracks for floatation and climbing in the deep stuff. Snowmobile designs have progressed light years in the past two decades, and the machines today will take you almost anywhere if you handle them correctly. But, when you do get stuck, they are beasts to dig out and move.

So, we all immediately perfect the art of getting stuck. Repeatedly. Greg, in particular, masters the method of hillclimbing high above us, trying to eke out the last possible foot of vertical before turning around, only to come up short as his sled sinks into the bottomless powder. We all stand and watch him struggle from below, clapping and shouting encouragement. To try and join him would only compound the problem, trigger avalanches, and make us really tired. We’re here to ride.

About 90% of our riding for the day is off-trail. We cover a total of 65 miles, nominal by snowmobile standards, but amass a respectable 50,000 cumulative vertical feet of climbing. Through it all, we’re never more than about fifteen linear miles from the lodge.

Brent uses the CDST to access strategic meadows, drainages, and mountains, and we take off into the hills like futuristic space craft. The sensation of piloting a snowmobile through deep powder is like no other. There’s no lift line or downtime; it’s just all go. Balance, strength, technique, understanding gravity, reading the snow, and knowing the capability of your machine all factor in. When it all comes together, the result is poetry, almost like you’re flying. We call it “the flow,” and it comes and goes like a good golf shot. You just try to savor those good moments, and deal with getting stuck like you do a sand trap on the links. As “Flow Mo” says, “you’re not really riding unless you bury it once in a while.”

Grouse Mountain serves as the hub for most of our riding, and provides stunning, unimpeded Teton Views to the southwest. We ride up, down, around, beside, and with the mountain all day. The upper reaches feature spacious untracked meadows, challenging hillclimbs, and perfect spots for continental divide views and profound conversation breaks. Energizer Jon never stops. Mo finds the flow. Mike shares good Idaho tales, and Andy seems to be handling the cold just fine. I savor the vistas, and think about Rusty.

As the afternoon fades and we begin riding back towards the lodge, Brent leads us down a ravine much like several others we’ve successfully navigated today. This time, however, a preponderance of deadfall makes the route tricky. At one point, we wait while he crosses over and explores. Attempting to return, he buries his sled at the mouth of the bear den.

The prospect of waking a sleeping grizzly, combined with the fact that happy hour is rapidly approaching, infuses our work with purpose. We make it back to the lodge for hard-earned beverages, enjoy a tasty dinner in the appropriately named Grizzly Grill, and seal the day with a nightcap or two while recounting the adventures.

Walking back to our cabins for the night, we laugh, brag, and cajole like six middle aged kids. The Milky Way is so vivid we feel like a part of it, and the world goes by someplace else, far below.

2012-01-17T19:25:00.002-07:00

2012 has started off a little light on snow here in Driggs, Idaho. Persistent high pressure has made for some beautiful bluebird days, but snow enthusiasts are ready for Mother Nature to turn on the snow machine. It will come, soon.

So far, it's been the Year of the Snowbike. Minimal snowpack + cold nights = firm trails. I took this photo last Friday afternoon on my way up nearby Darby Canyon. It's a multi-use canyon road during the winter, with snowmobiling, nordic skiing, snowshoeing, snowbiking, and anything else you can dream up. Farms adjoining foothills near the canyon's mouth make for a unique setting.

This past weekend was the first annual Teton Valley Snowfest. Events included Skijoring, a Snowbike race, Nordic Ski Race, Concerts, Ice Sculptures, Luge, Snow Plane demos, and more. It was a great success, with people attending from all over the west, and should only continue to grow. In a year where many places haven't had any snow or winter to speak of, we still managed to put on a great show here in Driggs.

I love this scene, near the mouth of Fox Creek canyon. A classic old Teton Valley barn, with horses and winter hay at the foot of the mountains. Deer and Elk haven't moved down from the hills yet, but I'm sure we'll be seeing them by the hay barn soon.

Happy Winter of 2012!

Happy Holidays

2011-12-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Holidays from Driggs, Victor, and Teton Valley, Idaho.

May your days be filled with family, friends, fun, and love.

And may peace and authenticity fill the world.

Teton Valley Winter Mode

2011-12-08T14:04:00.001-07:00

We're getting into full-on winter mode here in Teton Valley, Idaho now. Below-zero temps at night, crisp sunny days, a little snow, and holiday get togethers beginning to fill the weekends. We've dusted off our winter recreation toys and stoked the fireplace.

We're also remembering how to drive on icy roads. This is the view coming into Driggs from the south last week, and shows what our roads will look like for most of the next four months. Helps you understand why we all ski, ride snowbikes, and snowmobile.

Speaking of which: we could use more snow for downhill skiing and snowmobiling, but conditions are nearly perfect for snow biking at the moment. Enough white stuff for a base yet not too deep, and cold nights to keep it all firm. Bridger is digging it, too.

A recent work trip to Salt Lake City shows the lack of snow along the Wasatch Front. This was a morning hike along the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, done in running shoes, in December. Nice, but not normal. Ski resorts are a little worried.

We're less than two weeks from Winter Solstice, and the sun is far to the south these days. It's producing some phenomenal, luminescent orange sunsets here in Driggs. Of course, it happens before 5pm now, but that's o.k.

Here's to early winter fun, cozy nights, and ushering in the holidays with friends and family. Cheers.

Rolling Through November

2011-11-22T21:26:00.001-07:00

September and October felt like summer here in Teton Valley, Idaho. Then, the first week of November, we went straight to winter. No mud season, no time to grow our winter coats...just lots of cold and snow. As in below-zero temperatures a couple of mornings, already. It's all good news for Grand Targhee and Jackson Hole ski areas, both of which will open this coming Thanksgiving weekend.

A couple of work trips to nearby cities has helped ease the seasonal transition. We escaped to Boise for a few days of meetings, and enjoyed some sweet singletrack on the side. At only 2,800 feet elevation, Boise has mild winters and great shoulder seasons, plus fun downtown happenings. It's always cool seeing the Idaho State Capitol building, too.

Like Boise, Salt Lake is about a half day's drive from Driggs. It's my old stomping grounds, family & friends are plentiful, and I often have work there. Yesterday, I escaped for a lunchtime bike & run with cousin Brent. It was simply spectacular, with green grass in the valley, snow-capped peaks, and warm blue sky. Lots of like-minded souls were out and about, soaking it in.

Did I mention it's winter in Driggs? Bridger doesn't mind. In fact, I dare say it's his favorite season. He's nearly 5 years old now, and I've never seen him more hyper than he was after last weekend's big snowfall. This early snow is a great base for a winter full of backcountry ski & snowmobile outings, too.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Fantabulous Fall

2011-10-26T06:19:00.000-06:00

Ahh, fall. As hoped, it's making up for the crappy spring we had...and then some.

A colorful hike up Coal Creek last week led us from warm, to classic autumn, to snow up at 9,000 feet.

Bridger found a big "view" rock, so I joined him for a break in the evening sun.

And best of all, the mountain biking continues. Every nice day is a bonus now, folks...enjoy!

Leaping to Autumn

2011-10-09T21:36:00.001-06:00

At times it feels like my blog is a bit weather-centric, but mother nature plays a major role in Teton Valley, Idaho life. City folks roll with it by going to malls, movies, major sporting events, and sitting in traffic; here around Driggs, it's all about what we can do outside on a given day. Hence, the weather factor.

It changed as dramatically as I've ever seen this week. Over the course of about 48 hours, we went from this (Palisades Reservoir)...

...to this (my deck). Weeks of 80+ degrees and nearly perpetual sunshine gave way to three days of snow, and cold. Leaves were barely changing color, and suddenly had 5" of snow on them. Shorts & sandals gave way to fleece & boots. Oh boy, here we go.

It did clear up in time for Saturday's MooseCross cyclocross race, and subsequent Oktoberfest in Victor. I raced, but don't have pics to prove it yet. Let's just say I saw a new maximum heart rate, and also had a blast. About 200 racers showed up, and at least that many spectators. Big numbers for a small town. Hats' off to my good friend Dave B and Victor Velo for making it happen.

We're now hoping for a couple weeks of classic Indian Summer weather. A chance to smell the leaves, feel crispness in the air, hear the elk bugling, and generally slow down from summer's frenetic pace. Plus, there's football...and views like this up Teton Canyon.

Bridger has been loving the snow and cooler temperatures. Ahh, the joyous flexibility of our canine friends. Just shake the snow off your back, and keep going.

I am a Hemingway fan, and his memorial over in Sun Valley poignantly reads: "Best of all, he loved the fall; the leaves yellow on Cottonwoods, petals floating in trout streams; and above the hills, a high blue windless sky." Here's to Autumn.

Summer in September

2011-09-27T20:29:00.000-06:00

It just doesn't get any better than September in the Tetons. Truly. Warm days, crisp nights, blue skies, colors popping, elk bugling...somebody pinch me.

Temperatures have literally felt like August recently. We've taken advantage, and done some epic mountain bike rides and other outings. This is Joanne on pristine singletrack up by Elk Flats, en route to Garn's mountain. Incredible day.

My Jackson basketball team had its annual "Fall Classic" golf tournament at the Teton Reserve course in Victor, Idaho on Saturday. Here are a few of the guys at the start, displaying the trophy I ended up winning for low score. Total amatuer luck.

It was a beautiful day to be golfing in Teton Valley, and catching up with these guys. Some of them have been playing basketball together for over 30 years. I've been with them for 15 years now, and it's like a family. This is Jere teeing off, with Paul & Tom standing by. Good times.

My swim stroke has been like a bad golf swing, so last weekend I attended a semi-private lesson with former U.S. Olympic Triathlete Barb Lindquist, who resides in Victor. It was held at the nice outdoor Teton Springs pool, and I learned a few things, for sure. Seeing myself on video was a bit horrifying, but helpful. Lots of practice time ahead.

Last week was also a big ride to Piney Pass with Dave & Michelle. Good friends Steve & Kim showed up on their ATV with new black lab puppy "Carbon." I like the fact that at least some mountain bikers and ATV enthusiasts can get along.

Sunday was our annual ride to the top of Garn's peak, high point in the Big Hole mountains west of Driggs. Jordan, Michelle and Joanne paused to take it all in, with Tetons glittering in the background. How sweet it is.

Happy Fall!

LOTOJA Bike Race Report: Podium, At Last!

2011-09-20T01:47:00.008-06:00

For the fourth consecutive year, I was part of LOTOJA - a 206-mile, one-day bike race from Logan, Utah to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It's the longest USCF (united stated cycling federation)-sanctioned bike race in the country, comprises over 10,000 feet of climbing, and attracts top racers from all over North America.

This year I entered the 2-Person Relay category with my super-strong cousin, Brent. Coming from a team sports background, the teamwork aspect appealed to me, plus we felt we could do well. From day one, Brent & I had our sights set on a Podium finish (top 5), and scheduled our spring & summer training accordingly. For early season fitness, we did the Moab Xterra (May) and Boise Half-Ironman (June) triathlons, finishing within minutes of each other each time. Below is the conclusion of the Boise bike leg, where we literally rolled into transition right next to each other. Genes are a crazy thing.

By late June, we were focusing almost exclusively on cycling. Several climbing-intensive 70-100 mile outings built our base, and also our understanding of individual strengths. The photo below was taken on a brutally demanding Kamas-to-Hanna, UT training ride back in July, which really hurt but definitely catapulted my fitness forward. There was also a Little & Big Cottonwood Canyon day, a Teton Pass-Grand Targhee day, Ketchum-to-Stanley, Emigration Canyon, and more.

Plus, a couple dozen mountain bike rides for me.

Brent has done more road biking than I, and without question has a deeper strength base. I worked my butt off this year to get to his level, and by the time Labor Day rolled around I was leaner than I'd been since college. Brent was down to fighting weight & power, too. We divided LOTOJA race sections up between us according to ability and strategy, and prayed for no mechanical issues. For final inspiration, we cued up Al Pacino's speech from "Any Given Sunday." And then, we went out and fought for that inch on race day, for each other. Which is what it came down to for a Podium spot.

My brother Curt and friend Russ were both tackling LOTOJA solo for the first time this year (top photo w/me), and I enjoyed pre-race registration and dinner with them on Friday. Saturday race morning dawned unusually warm. I was riding the first leg, and awoke at 4:30am without an alarm. My system was ready, jumping out of my skin like a cat after a one-week taper. The temperature was 60-degrees, unheard of for Logan, Utah in mid-September...but no complaints! It dipped a bit right before sunrise, but was still high 50's when I stepped up to start with the 2-person group at 7:04am. Here I am with Brent right before I rolled to the start.

It was nice to run into several people I know around the starting line, definitely a benefit to becoming a veteran racer. A little conversation helped soothe the nerves, but that "edge" was still in my belly, raring to go. I've never felt so ready. I needed that energy immediately, because at mile 15 three racers went down ten yards in front of me and skidded sideways into my line. Suddenly I was a mountain biker again, bunny hopping sideways at 20mph without going off the righthand shoulder. I was stunned, grateful I hadn't gone down, and pretty shaken up the rest of that first 34-mile leg into Preston, ID. It's always a sketchy leg to get through, because the groups are so big, there is so much nervous energy, and this is everyone's "A" race for the year...but this year was worse than usual in that regard.

I came into Preston at the front of the 2-person group, but knew there were at least a dozen other really strong riders in our category. Brent then headed off for 47-miles to Montpelier, ID, including 3,000 feet of climbing up Strawberry Pass. He hammered it, and pulled a couple of the other top riders up the climb with him. He had to wait for water at neutral aid near the top of the climb, which cost us a minute, and then got caught at the ridiculous stoplight in Montpelier, which also cost us a minute or two...but still had us near the top 5 when I took the timing chip and started my 80-mile leg all the way to Alpine, WY.

It's always tough to get going again after stopping for a couple of hours, but I felt good. This was my money leg, with climbs up Geneva Pass and then the high point of the race and my favorite, Salt River Pass. I started reeling people in, and soon passed the leading Cat 1 women and then one of our 2-person competitors. In hindsight, I probably pushed it a little too hard up Geneva, but I loved the fact that I was killing everyone on the climb and went with it.

It felt like an individual time trial for the run-up to Salt River Pass. I knew it wasn't the most efficient way to ride, but I just never found a strong group to go with...so I kept my head down and the gas pedal floored. I passed my brother Curt climbing the steepest pitch of Salt River (he and Russ had started about an hour ahead of us), and learned he was having severe stomach issues. Not good. I kept climbing, crested the summit, and began the descent to Afton with a strong group of Red Burro Racing guys from Las Vegas. Our paceline grew to 20 as we swallowed up other riders, and it started feeling sketchy to me again so I moved near the front. As we entered the final corner into Afton, someone bumped my wheel from behind and suddenly everyone behind me went down hard. Two minutes later an ambulance headed that direction, and my nerves were frayed again.

Official race photography wasn't up to normal snuff this year, and we only came away with a couple of our own photos. This is Brent during his final Alpine-to-Jackson leg of the day, looking good and going super fast.

I rolled right through Afton without stopping at the aid. I had picked up a fresh water bottle from neutral support at the top of Salt River Pass, and decided to make my two bottles last the 50 miles to Alpine from there. It got really warm and breezy through Star Valley, so my water fell a little short. I ran out in Etna, about 10 miles from Alpine. Ten miles doesn't seem like much, but when it's 80-degrees and you've got over 100 miles under your belt at race pace...I got pretty thirsty. I absolutely emptied my power tank during those final miles, reaching for that inch with every fiber of energy I had, hanging onto a really strong group of 5 other riders in a perfect paceline, and rolled into Alpine completely spent and starting to cramp in my hips. My time for the 80-miles from Montpelier to Alpine was 3hrs 46 minutes, 4,100 calories burned, total climbing during that stretch was 3,300 feet, and my average heart rate was 164. I handed the timing chip to Brent, told him to catch one more rider for our Podium spot, and felt like I was going to puke and cry at the same time. About a gallon of water & gatorade brought me back to coherency again.

Brent absolutely pinned it on the final 47-miles from Alpine to Jackson. The rollers of Snake River Canyon suit his strengths perfectly, and he passed that other 2-person competitor to put us in 5th place. About ten miles from the finish he proceeded to catch the 3rd & 4th place guys, and we were getting psyched. It was going to be a sprint at the finish, and unless your name is Mark Cavendish, Brent will beat you in a finish sprint. But alas, the cycling gods decided it would be too much excitement, and he flatted with 3-miles to go. Wisely, he decided to continue riding on the flat tire rather than stopping to change it, and we held on for that 5th and final podium spot. We were 2-minutes behind 3rd & 4th place, and only 1-minute ahead of 6th place. After ten hours and 206-miles, it was that close.

Here's Brent at the finish. Notice the flat rear tire, and the determination.

So, while we were a bit disappointed at not placing as high as 3rd when it was so close, we were totally thrilled at making the Podium. It's by far the biggest event in which I have made a Podium; it required immense preparation all year and heroic efforts on race day, including perfect crew support from Brent's wife Beth and son Haeden. I will say that without a doubt, Brent is the guy you want in that fox hole with you.

We hugged like cousins, and commenced smiling.

My brother Curt and friend Russ both finished as well. The smiles lasted all night over dinner and celebrating in Jackson, continued at the awards ceremony the next morning, and are still there today. Thanks for a great race and lasting memories, cuz!!

Late Summer Adventures

2011-08-29T22:51:00.006-06:00

As summer winds down here in Teton Valley, Idaho, there's a certain urgency in the air. It's mainly about squeezing in final high country outings before the snow flies. And so, I joined Joanne on a nice evening horse ride up South Fork of Teton Canyon the other day (I try to ride something other than a bike at least twice a year). We rode towards Alaska Basin, as far as time allowed, and it was gorgeous. Typically, signs of Fall are prevalent by late August, but not so this year. Wildflowers are still blooming, the grass is tall & green, and no colors on any leaves yet. I'm hoping this means we'll have a nice long Indian Summer.

This summer has also meant a lot of construction around Driggs. Specifically, a complete makeover of Main Street and Hwy 33. It's made life tough for local businesses and has chewed up a lot of bike tires, but is finally nearing completion. The finished product will be a big step forward; new pavement, sidewalks, landscaping, lights, and more. Come see it all next summer!

Of course, the past couple of weeks have also included a few bike rides, most notably the Star Valley Century last Saturday. It starts and finishes in Afton, WY, and is absolutely beautiful. This year's ride benefitted the family of a good departed friend, making it extra meaningful. I rode with my brother Curt, cousin Brent, and friends Todd Q and IronRuss. Here we are at the top of Salt River Pass, where much to Russ's chagrin I had just won our King of the Hill competition. Victory is sweet.

I took this photo after an evening mountain bike ride last week, and love how it showcases the uniquely Driggs combination of farming, the Tetons, and recreation. There's just something cool about starting a bike ride next to an Idaho grain silo, exploring stellar mountain singletrack, and returning to an amazing sunset with America's most iconic mountain range illuminated right before your eyes. It gets in your blood.

Paradise Found

2011-08-20T19:11:00.008-06:00

The perfection of a Teton Valley, Idaho summer has a way of gobbling up the weeks. That, plus a lot of work lately (yes, really), has caused time to slip by between blog posts. So here we go.

The past few weeks have been filled with cycling, hiking, golfing, a family reunion, bbq's, horseback riding, and lots of travel for work. The sun just keeps shining, with warm sunny days and cool peaceful nights. It is oh-so-sweet.

The recent fun started with a LaBelle family reunion over in Sun Valley, Idaho. We've been going there since I was a toddler, and it feels like a second home. My brother from New York, sister from California, and others from Salt Lake all came together for several days, and it was awesome. Bike rides, bowling, ice skating, swimming, fishing, and relaxed dinners on the deck gave us all time to catch up, and made for some great new memories.

The Outdoor Retailer show in Salt Lake then consumed me with work for a week. But it was good consumption, as I love that whole scene. Lots of buzz out there about minimalist footwear, high-definition helmet cams, versatile lightweight packs, wicking materials, GPS advances, stand-up paddling, and more. A trend I continue to see is casual outdoor style becoming more and more mainstream. Button-down shirts are now often constructed with the latest performance fabrics; merino wool and cool-max socks are proliferating in department stores as well as specialty shops; minimalist footwear is seen in the workplace; etc. It's been fascinating to watch this all happen over the past decade or so, and bodes well for the outdoor industry, which needs something to spur growth in the face of a computer-centric world. And that's my work pronouncement for the week.

On a lighter note: in my work travels, mainly between Driggs and Park City, I'm forced to endure scenes like this. It could be worse. This is the Little Elk Creek drainage, along Palisades Reservoir in southeastern Idaho. Phenomenal sight.

Some great mountain bike rides over the past several weeks, too. This is from an overlook on Ridge Trail, on the Jackson side of Teton Pass. Simply delicious.

Enjoy the season.

Idaho Summer Perfection

2011-07-28T19:04:00.001-06:00

For years, I've said it's a shame that any of us here in Driggs have to work at all in July. It is simply perfect. Warm days, cool nights, deep blue skies, smiles everywhere, beautiful scenery every direction, and recreation screaming to be had while it lasts.

Rivers are finally calming and clearing now too, so fishing will kick in these next couple of weeks. Add that to everything else going on - golfing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, bbq's - and folks around here are busy.

The high country is springing to life, with waterfalls like I haven't seen in years. Trails are finally melting off up near the 10,000 foot level, so big Teton hiking loops are now possible. Get up there and explore while you can.

The Teton Valley Mountain Bike Festival was a resounding success last weekend, and it was fun to be part of it. Festivities, group rides, new bikes to test, and mingling with great people under perfect weather conditions. This photo is from a group ride I helped lead around Rick's Basin, up at Grand Targhee. It feels like you're in the Alps up there.

Have I mentioned that it's dog heaven around here, pretty much year-round? Bridger enjoys July almost as much as we do, with plenty of creeks to cool of in during backcountry adventures.

Be adventurous and cool out there, yourselves. And enjoy July!

July Happenings: Tin Cup Challenge, Music on Main, Mountain Bike Festival

2011-07-21T16:06:00.000-06:00

Mid-summer in the Tetons is heaven on earth. The towns of Driggs, Victor, and Jackson come to life like they're late for a party. Snow caps the high peaks, water rushes, flowers bloom, and wow is it green in the valleys this year.

The big challenge is finding time for everything...but we do our best, happily.

Last weekend was the annual Tin Cup Challenge fundraising race in Driggs. All proceeds go to area non-profits. Attendance was higher than ever, with over 1,000 participants; weather was perfect, and the vibe was great.

The Tin Cup race has distance options for everyone: marathon, half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and a fun walk. I raced the 5K, and kinda liked that nice short distance for a change.

On Thursday evenings from June 30 to August 11, the town of Victor hosts a free "Music on Main" event. It's an amazing social scene, with food, beverages, and some great music acts. As we sat with good friends last week, watching the sun set and the full moon rise, it felt like one big happy family.

Back for its second year is the Teton Valley Mountain Bike Festival. It starts tomorrow and runs through Sunday, with group rides, clinics, x-c race, live bands, bike shenanigans, and tons of free schwag. It really is amazing how many sponsors this event already has, and pre-registrations are way up over last year.

I'll be leading a Friday afternoon group ride myself, and Joanne is overseeing registration. Come join the fun!

Meanwhile, the rivers continue to rage with high country snowmelt. It's incredible to see water like this in late July; this photo is the Hoback River near Jackson, taken yesterday afternoon. It would normally look like this in late May or early June.

Here's to summer sunshine, fun with friends, and a great weekend wherever you are.

2011 Boise Ironman Triathlon: Video

2011-07-11T23:02:00.008-06:00

Summer is working its magic, and time is flying by here in Driggs. It's interesting how the more daylight hours we have, the faster each day seems to go. Must be a function of Idaho's short summer season, and the resulting sense of urgency. Whatever the impetus, I hope you're all out there golfing, hiking, boating, mountain biking, and loving it.

It's already been a month since I did the Boise Ironman 70.3 Triathlon. Boise is about a 5 hour 30 minute drive from Driggs, and simply an awesome city. Great recreation, plenty to do, and a nice Idaho feel.

The 1.2 mile swim is at Lucky Peak Reservoir; the 56 mile bike leg goes west, south, and then downtown Boise for transition #2; the run is two 6.55 mile loops on the sweet Boise river greenbelt, finishing right smack downtown. It is an amazing scene, with terrific volunteers & fans...and the closest to a rockstar I have ever felt.

Without a doubt, the highlight was sharing such a great experience with two cousins of mine, Brent and Wade. Thanks guys, and keep rolling.

I finally carved out some time this week, and put together the following slideshow with music. Sincere thanks to Joanne, Beth, Steph, and Chris for the photos; they are priceless.

Back to regular blogging later in the week. For now, turn up your speakers and see why Ironman events are without equal. Cheers.

Ringing in July

2011-07-07T17:24:00.002-06:00

July means summer, even in Idaho. Snow is melting, rivers are running, sun is shining...and wow, is it ever green in these parts. A verdant payoff for the eight-months of winter we endured this year.

As anticipated, runoff is just now peaking; creeks are running over the highway between Driggs and Victor, and mountain trails are taking their time drying out.

So, the hiking and mountain biking season has only just begun. We're starting to get back into some favorite places like South Horseshoe Canyon, but will be treading lightly for another week or two.

This creek is about the midway point on our popular Aspen Trail. It's normally a benign two-foot deep crossing, with a big log to help. The log is now completely under water, and the creek is 3-4 feet deep.

Do not attempt to cross creeks like this, my friends; they are crazy-powerful, even when only thigh deep. We turned around and enjoyed another day, along with our bikes and dog.

The long 4th of July weekend around Driggs was terrific. Perfect weather, pleasant crowds, and amazing events from Thursday through Monday.

This was the scene at Huntsman Springs on Saturday afternoon, before the big Glenn Beck and fireworks show. An estimated 15,000 people descended on Teton Valley for the weekend, more than doubling our population. Businesses were happy.

Bridger says, "here's to July."

Summer At Last, Upcoming 4th of July Events

2011-06-27T08:26:00.000-06:00

Summer arrived here in Driggs, Idaho this week - quite late, but all the more brilliant from the wait. Iridescently blue skies, impossibly green fields, snow-capped Tetons, rushing water, and smiles all around. Let the flurry of summer events and activities begin.

It starts with the busy upcoming 4th of July weekend. Saturday July 2 will feature the second annual "Celebrate America" event at Huntsman Springs golf course and resort in Driggs, with a street fair, games, Glenn Beck, fireworks, and more; the band Widespread Panic will perform at Grand Targhee July 1-3; catch the authentic Tetonia Rodeo the evening of July 2; watch the classic Victor City parade the morning of July 4; and, of course, Teton Valley's signature hot air balloon rides all weekend. Whew!

We'll be making time for some overdue summer recreation, too. Mountain biking trails are finally opening up and drying out; road cycling groups are out in force; golf courses are primed for use; and horseback riding is rolling.

Speaking of which: we have our Tennessee Walker horses here for the summer now, including my favorite, Cheval. I'm looking forward to working in a few epic backcountry rides with Joanne, Weston & co. this year.

Did I mention the rivers are rushing? High water will last 2-3 more weeks...don't drive through overflows like this.

Happy Trails!

Summer Solstice Week: Bears, Snowpack, Golf

2011-06-20T17:42:00.008-06:00

About 10 years ago, I had a grizzly encounter while hiking near Togwotee Pass, WY. "Encounter" in this case meant I saw the bear from about 50 yards away, he saw me, and he then continued grazing on fresh wild onions while I beat a hasty retreat back to the trailhead. As benign as it was, I was nonetheless dripping with sweat and didn't sleep well for a week.

That was nothing compared to what a local Driggs man experienced while hiking the popular Teton Canyon trail towards Table Rock last week. The sow grizzly had two young cubs, and charged him three times; thank goodness he had bear spray at the ready, and loads of good sense. Read the details here: Teton Canyon Grizzly Encounter. It's wild out there folks, be prepared.

On a lighter note: the sun is finally winning its annual battle with lingering winter weather here in Teton Valley. We'll be seeing our first mid-70's temperatures of the year this week, meaning actual photosynthesis will be taking place, attitudes will improve, and water will be flowing everywhere. High country snow-water levels are at 392 percent of average; the SNOTEL site at Grand Targhee is just now peaking, and not expected to melt out until the end of July. Absolute craziness...get your boats ready!

Here's what the snowpack looked like on a bike ride last week, up by Grand Targhee ski resort. Lifts are open for the summer season, and being used almost exclusively for continued skiing and snowboarding. Come on up and 'git some.

And, here's what we're all anticipating in the coming weeks: sunshine, Teton Scenery, golf on great Driggs area courses like the new Huntsman Springs, and more.

Happy Summer Solstice.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-02T22:37:00.003-06:00

This past weekend marked our 16th Memorial Day weekend here in Driggs. In true Idaho style, we typically get one or two relatively nice days, a day of rain, and a day of snow. Like clockwork, it happened once again.

I kicked things off with a classic road bike ride up to Grand Targhee on Saturday. It was supposed to be a rainy afternoon, but the weather held and made for an awesome day on the bike.

I never tire of this view.

Alas, Sunday we awoke to 2" of snow on the ground. With my big Boise Ironman 70.3 Triathlon coming up, I decided to make it a swim day. Thanks to good friends Jon & Audrey, I was able to stay local and swim at Teton Springs outdoor pool in Victor. It has been open since May 1, is heated nicely, and is simply a beautiful setting. Not bad

Dreary weather continued on holiday Monday, but we stayed happy with a power hike followed by a good friend's birthday party. Notice from this photo: we really don't even have leaves on the trees yet here in Teton Valley; it's gonna be a short summer.

Of course, as soon as the long weekend ended, the sun emerged. "Spring" runoff is going strong over in the Big Hole mountains, on the valley's west side. This photo is North Pine Creek, which was raging when I hit the road for work on Tuesday. It's near one of our favorite mountain biking areas; clearly, we might be a month away from dry trails and summer riding conditions.

Meanwhile, runoff hasn't even begun yet on the bigger Teton (east) side of the valley. Yikes. I'm sure one of my next blog entries will involve photos of water...lots of it.

Happy June!

Rolling Towards Summer

2011-05-22T23:37:00.000-06:00

It's happening, albeit slowly: the snow line is edging up the foothills, flowers are blooming, grass is greening, horses are shedding their winter coats, and bikes are even appearing around Driggs. Could it really be happening...summer?

Memorial Day weekend is coming up, and the weather forecast looks surprisingly good. We're tuning up the mountain bikes, dusting off the golf clubs, and digging the shorts out just in case (coats stay handy all year).

We grabbed a couple hours of nice evening weather the other night, and took a spin around local Teton Valley dirt roads. I savor those moments, when we're out recharging our souls while city folks are stuck in rush traffic. The older I get, the more I realize you just can't put a price tag on it.

Fox Creek is not yet running high, but with all that snow up on Housetop mountain (far background), it will be raging soon. Runoff will likely last through most of June; so if you're into fishing, it's gonna be a few weeks. If it's any consolation, Driggs area golf courses are open and playing well.

To cap off the week, I made the drive to Salt Lake City and joined some good friends & family for the Salt Lake Century bike ride this weekend. Over 2,000 cyclists headed from SLC out to Antelope Island and back, via some great rural roads through Davis County. It was a perfect weather day, and terrific event. Wish I'd have taken more photos, but we went too fast.

Here's to a brilliant summer.

Mud Season

2011-05-17T22:13:00.001-06:00

April and May are often referred to as "mud season" here in Driggs, Idaho. This year has taken that moniker to a whole new level, with nearly endless rain and snow for the past six weeks. Grand Targhee and Jackson Hole ski areas closed for the season over four weeks ago; backcountry snowpack is unstable due to warming temperatures; foothill trails are still under snow; in short, we're stuck in recreation limbo until summer weather decides to appear...which is looking like June this year.

Long-time locals typically choose this time of year for escapes to the desert southwest. Why not enjoy some sunshine, dry trails, and weather warm enough for shorts & sandals in Southern Utah or Arizona, while Teton Valley slowly transitions out of winter? We did, and it was good.

Mountain biking in St. George.

Swimming in Lake Mead.

Hiking in Tucson.

Golf in Sedona.

It required a little driving time, but the resulting Vitamin D was absolutely worth it.

Now, back in Driggs, we are patiently awaiting this...soon.

March On

2011-03-14T11:17:00.000-06:00

March is my favorite winter month. Yes, in most places it's considered "spring," but here in Driggs, Idaho it is unmistakably the culmination of winter; like a winter harvest time, really. Whatever your hobby, increasing daylight and warmth provide occasion to enjoy snow that has piled up for months...and there's still powder to be found.

Snowpack is excellent throughout the region, way above average. We've been snowshoeing, skiing and snow biking. Friends have been snowmobiling...and it's all good. Grand Targhee is reporting mid-mountain snow depth of 121", and has extended its winter season through April 17. Up at Togwotee, it is truly bottomless; amazing the cabins are holding up under this snow load!

Snow biking the unbeatable Horseshoe-to-Packsaddle route over the weekend was absolute greatness. We have the Idaho State Snowmobile Association to thank for this grooming, and had good chats with several curious sledders along the way. Good vibes all the way around.

My time working in Park City has been good, too. Round Valley has become our favorite stomping grounds, with over 20K of groomed x-c ski and multi-use trails, all in the shadow of Park City ski area. Walking, running, snow biking, x-c skiing, and of course dog-playing; Bridger likes it as much as we do.

March on.

Doin' It All: Winter, Driggs Style

2011-02-13T23:01:00.001-07:00

It's been a classic mid-winter week around Driggs, and I've been fortunate enough to enjoy it in several different fashions. Snowmobiling, skiing, snow biking, snowshoeing, and incomparable Teton sunsets. I almost don't know where to start.

An early-week snowstorm added several inches of perfect fluff to a great base. Temperatures were cold but not unbearable; the sun emerged, and my Pugsley snowbike called for a lunchtime ride.

One of the great things about Teton Valley is our abundance of long, quiet Idaho country roads. Riding past farms, the Teton River, Trumpeter Swans, blue sky with mountains everywhere, and the smell of earth...does wonders for the soul.

As the weekend approached, we had the chance to do a favorite snowshoe hike with good friends Hank & Karen. Temperatures warmed, sunshine was plentiful, and laughter prevailed. Bridger was enthralled with it all, too...especially the elusive squirrels.

The highlight of the week - and year - was an epic snowmobile trip to Togwotee arranged by my buddy Jon. Snow conditions were stellar, our group of friends was awesome, and the sunny skies added priceless Teton views.

I've ridden my whole life, but this was the most aggressive couple of days ever for me. In two days we probably climbed over 50,000 vertical feet, saw four mountain ranges, rode 'til everything hurt, and even dug our guide's stuck sled out from the mouth of a grizzly bear den. Worthy stuff.

How do you top off a winter week like this in Driggs? With luminescent sunsets, of course.

Peace, adventures, and Happy Valentine's Day to you all.

The Heart of Winter

2011-01-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

Moving through January, we're into the heart of winter here in Driggs, Idaho (and Park City, too). Snow is deep, temps are cold, but we're also getting a good number of sunny days to enjoy it all.

This is a favorite snowshoe hike up Henderson Canyon, near Driggs. It wasn't much above 10 degrees, but surprisingly comfortable if we just kept moving. There's a lot of snow up there!

The snow biking has been excellent, as well. This is the Park City rail-trail on a recent lunchtime ride; lovin' it, but I'm far from mid-summer biking shape, for sure.

Exploring old stomping grounds in the Uintas (east of Park City), we discovered some sweet groomed routes and gorgeous scenery. There are trails for skiing, snowmobiling, and both. At around 8,000 feet, snow conditions are incredible.

Growing up, I used to roam this country mostly via snowmobile with family. Now, I'm usually on skis...but all the users we encountered - both motorized and non - were courteous and fun. Really refreshing to experience.

Bridger has been loving the variety, too.

Go Packers!

Our 2010 in Pictures

2011-01-10T17:48:00.001-07:00

Our 2010 in pictures (with music too, of course). Turn it up & enjoy...Happy New Year!