Winter is a beautiful time at the Ranches. Located at an elevation of about 8600 feet, there is often snow around Valerie Lodge. Yet, the sunny days and moderate temperatures generally keep the roads clear of snow. Daytime temperatures are usually 25º to 40º and nights dip to between -10º and 20º. The wind can be strong and the air is particularly dry. You'll want to make sure to drink lots of water, wear lotion, and put on plenty of sunscreen for your outdoor pursuits.
Be sure to bring:
- Instruments -- yes, there will be jamming!
- Clothes and shoes to dance in -- It gets pretty warm in the Lodge when we start moving, so you may want to bring shorts or short skirts and t-shirts
- Comfy, warmer clothes for hanging out - pants, long sleeve shirts, sweaters
- Boots for walking to and from cabins - paths will be shoveled, but the wind fills them back in regularly.
- Slippers or other footwear besides what you wear in the snow - we
want to keep the dance floor clear of snow and mud, so you'll want
something to put on when you're in the lodge
- Warm jacket, hat, gloves / mittens
- Warm socks
- Sunglasses -- with the warm sun and white snow, it get's pretty bright
- Water bottle - you can never drink too much water up here
- Bathing suit (for hot springs)
- Ear plugs (if you're a light sleeper)
- Flashlight -- for walking to your cabin at night
- Toiletries, including lotion
- Special food if you have needs not accommodated by non-dairy or vegetarian food
If you plan to be in the snow, also bring:
- Waterproof boots
- Snow/wind pants
- Rain / snow jacket
- Waterproof gloves / mittens
- Warm hat, neck gaiter / balaclava
- More warm socks
- Long underwear tops and bottoms (avoid cotton, if possible)
- Fleece / wool / down jacket(s)
- Fleece pants can be nice
- Sunscreen!!!
- Sunglasses
- Hat with a visor
Optional
- Camera - we'll compile digital photos onto CD at the end of the weekend
- Song books - anyone want to lead some Shape note singing?
- Snowshoes / cross-country skis / telemark skis / downhill skis / snowboard
- Climbing harness and shoes
- Cash to rent snowshoes, climbing gear, etc.
You DO NOT need to bring:
- Sheets, towels, or pillows (we'll provide these)
- Alcohol, drugs, cigarettes -- Thanks for complying with facility policies