Media Contact: Gaylene Ore Ore Communications (970) 887-2536 e-mail:  gaylene@orecommunications.com     GRAND COUNTY COLORADO WINTER FACTS   ·        Located just a short 90-minute drive from Denver, Grand County is more accessible than most winter resort areas.  Once you’re up here, however, the uncrowded trails, vast meadows, and soaring peaks make it clear that you’ve left the rest of the world far behind.   ·        Two alpine resorts offer skiing for skiers and ‘boarders of every inclination and ability.  SolVista Basin at Granby Ranch comprises two hills with 33 predominantly beginner- and intermediate-level trails; all of the trails end at the same base area, making it easy for families and groups to stay together.  Winter Park Resort has been offering family-style skiing since 1940 – today, the resort has grown to 5 mountains, with 134 trails covering nearly 3,000 acres.   ·        Grand County is home five Nordic centers:  Devil’s Thumb Ranch, YMCA of the Rockies/Snow Mountain Ranch, SolVista Basin at Granby Ranch, Grand Lake Touring Center, and Latigo Ranch.  Many more miles of backcountry trails are accessible in the Rocky Mountain National Park, Arapaho National Forest and Recreation Area, Medicine Bow/Routt National Forest, and the Vasquez Peak, Byers Peak, Never Summer and Indian Peaks wilderness areas.    ·        Dialysis patients and their families can vacation worry-free in a winter wonderland.  The Vacation Kidney Center of the Rockies located at YMCA of the Rockies/Snow Mountain Ranch, offers an up-to-date dialysis facility and professional staff.    ·        Starting with Winter Park Resort’s first season in 1939-40, the Ski Train has been bringing skiers from Denver right to the base of the ski area.  More than 60 years later, it’s still the most stylish and convenient way to arrive.   ·        Amtrak’s California Zepher stops daily in the towns of Fraser and Granby. The train travels from Chicago to Oakland.   ·        The ice fishing is excellent at Lake Granby, Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, Wolford Mountain Reservoir, and the Williams Fork Reservoir.  Serious anglers can compete for cash and prizes at several major contests during the season.   ·        In addition to skiing, winter visitors can enjoy ice skating, tubing, sled dog rides, sleigh rides, and trail rides.   ·        Grand Lake has a reputation for being Colorado’s snowmobiling capital, and for good reason.  From frozen lakes to rugged backcountry, and with local outfitters offering rentals, guided tours and service, it’s easy to get out and into the fun!  Another favorite snowmobiling destination is the east side of Rabbit Ears Pass, above Kremmling.  The area gets nearly 300 inches of snow during the season, and there are plenty of marked and groomed trails, not to mention spectacular scenery.   ·        For a truly unusual winter experience, several local companies offer hot-air balloon lifts.  It’s worth braving the chill to gain a whole new perspective on our snow-covered slopes and pine forests.   Information on these and other winter activities in Grand County is available from the Grand County Colorado Tourism Board, online at www.grand-county.com or by calling 1-800-729-5821.