Health + Wellness

Adventures Continue On

Sometimes there is a small window in the week where the schedule and weather are conducive for a trail ride. I love to check out new trails and be able to give my guests firsthand experiences. A bonus that I get to be in the saddle spending time with my horse.  Last Wednesday was one of those days. Making sure I have everything I need the night before. My mom, also my trail partner, carries the emergency kits for us. Wednesday is one of those days that we were happy to have had...

Arts + Culture

Calling All Art Connoisseurs! The Youth have Spoken!

Catch a glimpse of the creativity of local young artists! Article by Kalista Peña | Photography by Jennifer Mestas Driving down Main Street in our small town can feel like strolling through an art exhibit. The La Plata mountains create a gorgeous backdrop, surrounding our valley. The many murals painted along street buildings illustrate the creativity that thrives in this community. Every few months, a new mural appears around town, adding to the whimsical personality of Durango. The creative...

Fitness

Belayed Gratification

In Gravity Lab’s Indoor Climbing Gym, Fun and Transformation Are Right at Your Fingertips Article by Jennifer Mason | Photography by Ryan Willard The rock climbers inched toward the summit of Colorado’s Mount Blue Sky (formerly known as Mount Evans). They tiptoed along ledges no wider than a dime, wedging their fingers into stony cracks and ascending higher with every move—defying gravity itself. Suddenly, Sebastiaan Zuidweg notices ghostly spiderwebs crackling through the air. The metal gear...

Life + Culture

Intricacies of a Ski Bum

Local author Heather Hansmen shares the intricacies of a fleeting dream in her latest book Powder Days. Article by Kalista Peña | Photography by Hanady Kader Winter in Colorado is like a blank canvas. White to start, but later carved with lines that mimic brushstrokes. Snow-capped peaks allure many; they beckon freedom for some, fun for others, and danger to all. A dream, a vision—a ski bum's fantasy. Each year, thousands flock to the slopes to partake in the renaissance of their beloved...

Food + Beverage

Heard It Through the Grape Vine

Research and Sip-premacy Focal Points at The Arboretum Winery Article by Jennifer Mason | Photography by Elizabeth Philbrick, Ri Ganey, Paige Sparks Elizabeth Philbrick strode across a vast field—one half lined with young grapevines, the other with newly planted apple trees. She approached her husband, Jared Scott, who stood facing a sunset quenching the horizon with hazy bands of golden Gewürztraminer and blushing red Baco Noir. He could almost see the wines he and his wife dreamed of...

Health + Wellness

Salt of the Earth Ranch: Where Roots Run Deep and Dreams Grow

A winter polar vortex is on the radar across the country, with no exception to my corner of the world in southwest Colorado. Although as a Pennsylvania native, Colorado’s winters have been smooth sailing. After finishing my cup of coffee, I layer up in my faded purple coveralls and Carhartt. The rest of the house is still fast asleep. I start the kitchen sink and wait for the water to heat up. My trail dog, Sawyer, like every day, is full of overflowing energy and ready to bust out the door to...

Food + Beverage

Fudge Brownie Plus

Indulge Naturally: A Rich, No-Bake Chocolate Treat Packed with Nutrients Article by Heather Hinsley | Photography by Joshua Hoffman Raw desserts have gained popularity for their fresh, nutrient-packed qualities—indulge in sweets without the traditional baking. The guiding principle of raw food, focuses on keeping preparation temperatures low (below 111°F). This helps preserve the natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals in the ingredients, which can be lost in higher-heat cooking and baking...

Wellness

Durango Elemental Therapy

Unlocking Wellness: The Gentle Power of Craniosacral Therapy Article by Donna Stewart CranioSacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive hands-on treatment that aims to restore balance to the nervous system and surrounding structures. Durango Elemental Therapy combines CranioSacral therapy with deep study in anatomy, physiology, yoga therapy and energy work to guide the tissues of the body back to their natural, healthy, pain-free state.  What it's used for CST can help with a wide range...

Arts + Culture

Act Up, Be You, Feel Better

Improv Classes Go Beyond Giggles, Fostering Growth and Authenticity Article by Jennifer Mason | Photography by Andy Wingerd Boxing matches. A zoo overrun by maniacal monkeys. The grocery store dairy aisle. First day at boot camp. Oh, the places you’ll go in the span of a single class at Lower Left Improv!   “Improv to me is Yes-And’ing,” says owner Mary Quinn, referring to improv’s one immutable commandment: Thou shalt answer ‘yes, and…’ to all statements. Improv actors never reject what...

Wellness

Resilience and Clarity Through Shadow Work

Uncover Hidden Strengths and Inner Peace for 2025 Article by Cindy Schmidt | Photography by Allison Ragsdale Photography and Kyla Jenkinson As we approach 2025, the challenges of our times—political and social divisions, economic uncertainty, and personal struggles—can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed. Yet amid the chaos lies an opportunity for transformation: reclaiming resilience, finding clarity, and creating a life filled with meaning. I’m Cindy Schmidt, a Master...