While in many places winter means a halt to recreation and fun, particularly outdoors, in Castle Country winter can mean people can experience the desert, mountains and event the towns in a different and exciting way.
Around the area the desert presents some great possibilities for hiking and other even snow shoeing in some places. Often the days in the San Rafael Swell are warm and perfect for those hikes to places where many people don’t go that time of year. Solitude in the winter in the desert is the rule, not the exception.
The mountains surrounding the area provide a lot of opportunities for cross country skiing and snowshoeing as well. In addition those with snow mobiles can find dozens of trails with fantastic views of the winter scenes that show themselves only during the months of January and February. Particularly popular are the trails around the Huntington Canyon area that connect to Joe’s Valley in Emery County.
Also no one should ever forget about the great ice fishing that goes on during the winter at Scofield Reservoir and Joes Valley Reservoir either. They are two of the best spots in the state for winter anglers to enjoy their sport.
But fun isn’t all about being out in the snow and the wilderness. Cities and towns in the area keep people busy with many events.
Helper, in Carbon County continues during all the cold months with their new tradition of First Friday. On January 3 the town comes alive with music as the art galleries will be open with local musical talent playing in the venues along Main Street.
On January 11, Price City will hold one of its every other month celebrations called Music, Meals and Mingle on Main. Because of the short days with darkness falling so early this event will be moved from the usual Thursday date to that day from noon to 4 p.m. Called the Winter Fest, Main Street will be shut down to any through traffic during the event. Once again the street will be filled with food trucks of every kind. Also, as entertainment for the kids, there will be the Bouncy Castle and a Kid’s Corner with things to do. In addition there will be an ice fishing event for youngsters. The program will also feature some winter sports information and displays along with ice block races with the Price City Council members participating. Businesses along Main Street will be open during the event for those who attend and want to browse the shops.
On February 13 Collin Raye will be live in concert at the Carbon County Recreation Center and Fairgrounds. Originally from De Queen, Arkansas, he was one of the true hit makers of the 1990’s. Collin still continues to crank out soulful, heartfelt material with the honesty and richness that is signature to his vocals alone.
These and many other activities are taking place this winter in one of the best places to live and work, Castle Country.