November Ski Season in Colorado

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November in Colorado heralds the eager anticipation of winter’s arrival. As the season transitions from pavement to snow, the focus shifts. We focus more on activities that warm the spirit and embrace the impending cold. November is a quieter month for tourism, as many are preparing for the holiday season. However, it still offers a wealth of enjoyable pursuits, like skiing. Continue reading for more information on the November ski season in Colorado. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Your Guide to the November Ski Season

Colorado is home to over two dozen ski resorts.  Each battle to be the first to open for the season. While Arapahoe Basin usually is the winner in this category, others don’t fall too far behind with openings happening in mid to late November. Of course, this is always weather dependent. Some of the most popular areas are slated to open this month. This includes skiing areas like Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Crested Butte and Copper Mountain. Copper Mountain in particular is a popular area for many out-of-state fall visitors.

Copper Mountain, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports aficionados. This stunning alpine resort offers a wealth of recreational opportunities year-round, from world-class skiing and snowboarding on its diverse terrain to hiking, mountain biking, and golfing during the warmer months. Copper Mountain’s charming village boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Copper Mountain has an elevation of 9,712 feet. Also, the area sees an average annual snowfall of over 280 inches. The Copper Mountain resort provides a snowy playground for these spectacular winter adventurers. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the slopes or the tranquility of the mountain scenery, Copper Mountain has something to offer every visitor.

What Does “Equine” Mean?

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The word “equine” has its origins in Latin. It is derived from Latin meaning “pertaining to a horse”. The Latin word “equus” means “horse”. It is often used in English and other languages to describe things related to horses and horse-like creatures. Continue reading for more information on how we use this word in English. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Answering The Question: What Does “Equine” Mean?

Equines include a relatively small number of species compared to some other animal families. There are three extant (currently living) equine species commonly recognized—horses, donkeys, and zebras. Horses are the most domesticated equine species. They come in various breeds. We use them for various purposes, including riding, racing, work, and companionship. Donkeys, also known as asses, are closely related to horses. Horses are hardy animals and we use them in agriculture and transportation, especially in regions with challenging terrain. Most people recognize zebras for their distinctive black and white striped coat patterns. There are several species of zebras, including the plains zebra, mountain zebra, and more. Unlike horses and donkeys, we typically find zebras in the wild. In other words, humans have not domesticated them to the same extent as other equines.

The term “equine” is also an adjective that pertains to or relates to horses, donkeys, and other animals of the horse family. It describes characteristics, attributes, or things associated with these animals. Equine anatomy refers to the study of the physical structure and body parts of horses and related animals. There is also equine behavior is the field of study that explores the behavior patterns, social interactions, and psychology of horses and equids. Equine industry is a term that describes the collective businesses and activities related to horses, including horse breeding, racing, riding, and more. Another big term is equine medicine. This is a branch of veterinary medicine, specifically for the health and medical care of horses and related species.

Colorado Stargazing

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Due to Denver’s elevated altitude and arid climate, enthusiasts of the night sky can relish enhanced visibility. It is truly the premier urban center for stargazing. As a result, don’t forget to include these five stargazing spots in the vicinity of Denver on your must-visit list. Two of the best place near Denver for stargazing is the Red Rocks Amphitheater and Lookout Mountain Park. Continue reading for more information about these Colorado stargazing locations. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Popular Colorado Stargazing Locations

Red Rocks Amphitheater offers more than just live performances and morning hikes; it’s also an excellent location for stargazing. Situated just a 25-minute drive away from Denver, some residual city light pollution exists. However you can still savor impressive views of the nighttime heavens while soaking in the splendor of Red Rocks. You can check out the Red Rocks website for upcoming performances this September throughout the rest of the year.

Located in Golden, Lookout Mountain Park, which is roughly a 35-minute drive from Denver, not only treats you to sweeping panoramas of the nearby terrain but also provides an unobstructed vantage point for observing the celestial expanse. Along Lookout Mountain Road or within the Lookout Mountain Park parking area, you can find suitable parking spots. This park gazes upon towering peaks in the northern direction and offers views of both the city of Golden and downtown Denver towards the east. Notably, both observation points are accessible to wheelchairs.

Rocky Mountain Elk

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As late August transitions into September, the Colorado elk’s mating season commences. The prime locations to witness this animal are the town of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Here, Mother Nature’s spectacle unfolds in all its grandeur. Male elks shed their velvet, sharpening their antlers. They use their antlers to fight other males, all in pursuit of a female partner. Continue reading to find out more about Elk and Elk Fest. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Festival

The resonant bugling calls of male elks, audible from miles away, pierce the air as they beckon potential mates. The expansive grassy meadows within the park and even downtown Estes Park become the stage for these herds of elk. During the enchanting period affectionately known as “elktober,” encountering an elk becomes an almost certain occurrence. So beloved are these four-legged inhabitants that Estes Park orchestrates an annual affair, Elk Fest, to commemorate this special phase of the year. Typically taking place during the final weekend of September or the initial weekend of October, this event stands as a testament to the reverence for this remarkable time in nature.

Estes Park will host the 2023 Elk Fest from September 30th to October 1st. According to their website, “Celebrate Estes Park’s resident elk at Estes Park Elk Fest, a family-friendly festival in Bond Park (170 MacGregor Ave). Enjoy vendors, live music, food trucks, bugling contests, performances and more!” On both days, the festivities start at 10AM. Frequently, tourists observe wild elk both within the town and in the vicinity of Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s essential to bear in mind that elk are untamed creatures. Prioritize maintaining a safe distance, particularly in the presence of males (bulls) who might exhibit aggression as they protect their females (cows) from rival bulls during this season.

Popular Barn Types

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A barn is a versatile agricultural structure primarily found on farms. They serve a range of functions. In North America, we associate “barn” with buildings designed to shelter livestock such as cattle and horses. These structures also provide storage for equipment, feed, and often grains. Consequently, the term “barn” is frequently specified with various qualifiers, denoting specific uses. For example, there are tobacco barns, dairy barns, cow houses, sheep barns, and potato barns. Continue reading for some of the most popular barn types. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

The Most Popular Barn Types in Colorado

Throughout history, one of the barn styles that enjoyed considerable popularity was the threshing barn. Builders usually constructed these with a threshing floor, intended for the processing and safekeeping of cereals under dry conditions. Distinguished by its notable features, a threshing barn typically boasted sizable double doors situated at the center of one side, complemented by a smaller door on the opposite side. Storage space flanked both sides of the barn, accommodating both harvested and unprocessed cereal crops. The spacious larger doors permitted horse-drawn wagons to pass through, facilitating the transportation of crops.

More popular barn types include the Pole barn. This uncomplicated design involves erecting poles into the ground to serve as supports for a roof, and it can be configured with or without exterior walls. The distinguishing characteristic of the pole barn is its absence of a conventional foundation, which results in significantly reduced construction expenses. Originally intended for purposes such as sheltering livestock, storing hay, or housing equipment.

Women in Rodeo

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In many ways, American rodeo is a male-dominated sport. However, women have played a large part in it for a long time. The inaugural indoor rodeo event that welcomed women into its ranks took place in Texas in 1918. Swiftly, by 1920, women were making their mark as participants in various rodeo categories, including relay racing, rough stock riding, and even trick riding. The year 1928 saw a remarkable development: women’s competitive events were incorporated into a notable third of all rodeos. Continue reading for more information about the history of women in rodeo. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

The History of Women in Rodeo

However, as time progressed, the journey for women to participate in rodeo had its hurdles. Unfazed by the scarcity of opportunities, a group of women united in a hotel room in San Angelo, Texas. They aimed to revolutionize the treatment of women in this arena and secure a lasting place for them in the sport. This endeavor led to the establishment of the Girl’s Rodeo Association, comprising 74 dedicated members and approval for 60 tour events, marking a significant step forward in the history of women’s rodeo. Established by women, the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), with its headquarters situated in Colorado Springs, stands as the oldest women’s sports organization in the United States.

This year marks a significant milestone as the primary governing body for professional female rodeo athletes commemorates its 75th anniversary. The organization is celebrating the numerous accomplishments it has accomplished for cowgirls over the decades. Emerging from modest origins, the association has evolved into a powerhouse. It boasts a membership exceeding 3,000 individuals. It also orchestrates over 1,500 events and disburses prize money that has now exceeded the $5 million mark. The WPRA’s role extends as a catalyst for women across both the United States and Canada. They grant women everywhere opportunities to partake in timed events such as barrel racing, breakaway roping, and more.

The Benefits of Modern Cabins in Colorado

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Apart from attracting visitors to reconnect with nature, owning modern cabins in Colorado presents numerous advantages compared to conventional construction. Seasoned homeowners affirm that log and timber homes provide abundant benefits surpassing those of their neighbors’ stick and brick houses. Continue reading for some of the benefits to owning a modern cabin. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Modern Cabins in Colorado

Due to the renewable nature of trees, log and timber homes boast a strong eco-friendly background. When manufacturers construct homes with solid logs, it effectively removes the carbon contained in those logs. The carbon is removed from the environmental cycle throughout the home’s entire lifespan. Additionally, some log and timber home producers responsibly source their materials from standing dead timber (affected by insects) or acquire logs from sustainably certified forests. Some builders even adhere to green building standards, further enhancing the eco-consciousness of these homes. Next time you encounter a know-it-all in the neighborhood who boasts about the durability of their brick home, you can share that log and timber homes in Europe have stood strong for over 800 years, and there’s even a log-constructed church in Russia that’s reportedly over 1,700 years old.

Beyond their green credentials, log and timber homes have proven their resilience against Mother Nature’s fury. Countless stories demonstrate how these homes have withstood the harshest weather conditions, including weathering Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. Their solid log walls have protected inhabitants and prevented further damage, making them a reliable sanctuary. Another remarkable aspect of log and timber homes is how harmoniously they blend with the natural landscape. Modern cabin structures effortlessly integrate into the topography. Their seamless fit with the land contrasts beautifully with the sometimes awkward imposition of other construction styles.

Record Rainfall in Colorado

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There has been record rainfall in Colorado. Based on the latest data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, over 75% of the state of Colorado is currently free from drought conditions. This is an improvement compared to the same period last year when only 1% had no drought conditions. Furthermore, looking back to last year, an astonishing 57% of the state was facing severe drought conditions at this time. The substantial decrease in drought-affected areas indicates a positive shift in the state’s water availability and overall moisture levels. Continue reading for more in-depth information on the rainfall in Colorado this year. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.
 

The Record Rainfall in Colorado in 2023

 
Since May, northeastern Colorado has experienced a consistent downpour, with thunderstorms and prolonged rainfall saturating extensive areas. This year is becoming one of the wettest starts to the year for several cities and towns in Colorado. Colorado Springs, for instance, has recorded a remarkable rainfall total of 14.71 inches from January 1 to June 13. This surpasses the previous record of 14.11 inches set in 2015 during the same period. Other areas along the Front Range and east of Metro Denver are also reporting substantial rainfall, with many of them ranking among the top 10 spots for year-to-date totals in 2023.
 
Here are some rainfall totals from various locations since January 1: Boulder: 13.07 inches, Castle Rock: 13.48 inches, Denver: 10.81 inches, Evergreen: 11.58 inches, Fort Collins: 11.22 inches, Fort Morgan: 12.53 inches, Greeley: 10.55 inches, Julesburg: 9.63 inches, Longmont: 12.85 inches, and Loveland: 10.35 inches. The region continues to experience a significant amount of precipitation, bringing about a notable start to the year in terms of rainfall. Homeowners, this is the best time to check for leaks around your doors and windows. A silicon sealant can fix most small leaks. However, larger leaks may require a professional hand in which case you talk to your agent about their preferred handymen.

Why Your Farm Needs A Dog

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Across the annals of time, dogs have held a momentous role in the lives of humans. Renowned as man’s unparalleled companion, their affection, dedication, and unwavering loyalty remain unparalleled among all creatures. Yet, the contributions of dogs transcend mere emotional support; your farm needs a dog. Training dogs for the farm encompasses a multitude of diverse capacities. They herd horses and safeguard the barn against predators. This is just a few of the myriad of benefits dogs have on the farm. Continue reading for more information. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Your Farm Needs A Dog

With their inherent herding instincts, dogs can be skillfully trained to collaborate with sizable horse herds, employing diverse techniques such as guiding them between pastures and directing them into trailers. Notably, herding dogs, especially Border Collies, have earned popularity among horse workers owing to their exceptional aptitude for herding. These remarkable canines maneuver horses adeptly through swift movements and compelling eye contact. The process becomes notably simpler as you guide your dog and issue commands through voice or hand gestures.

In addition, dogs serve as guardians, defending the barn against potential predators that pose a threat to horses. Through their vigilant barking, they sound the alarm, alerting you to potential dangers. With their remarkable senses of sight, smell, and hearing, dogs can detect looming threats before you even become aware of them. The presence of a dog within the barn solely for protection is a worthwhile investment, safeguarding both you and your equine companions. Furthermore, dogs can act as sentinels, alerting you to any trespassers or malicious individuals with intentions of pilfering supplies from your barn. German Shepherds or Rottweilers, renowned for their protective capabilities, make excellent choices as security dogs.

Ghost Towns in Colorado

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Colorado experienced a mining boom in the late 1800s, making it one of the most prosperous regions of that time. Ambitious miners flocked to the area, establishing towns near rich deposits of precious metals amidst scenic meadows and hillsides. Some towns like Breckenridge, Leadville, and Idaho Springs remain popular destinations, while others turned into captivating ghost towns. Exploring these tranquil locations revives Colorado’s boom era, letting adventurers wander through abandoned streets that once thrived with saloons, outlaw encounters, and a flourishing industry that shaped the American West. Continue reading for a closer look at some of the ghost towns in Colorado. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.

Yuma County Ghost Towns in Colorado

Yuma County Colorado is the home of many ghost towns in Colorado. These include Arlene, Armel, Arnold, Avoca, Logan, Mildred, Newton, Waverly, and Witherbee just to name a few. Some of these ghost towns still have residents and have formed unincorporated towns. Like Abarr. Officials surveyed and established Abarr, also known are Brownsville, officially in 1922. However, a year later, in 1923, it underwent a name change and became Abarr. During this time, a post office was also established under the name Abarr, which operated until 1948. The town received its new name as a tribute to Ethel Hoffman, the wife of Silas Hoffman, who owned the local post office. Ethel Hoffman’s maiden name was Abarr.

Situated in northern Yuma County, Colorado, Clarkville stands as yet another captivating ghost town. The intersection of State Highway 59 transitioning from an east-west route to a north-south direction indicates the town. The town’s initial settlement occurred in 1933. Over the years, movers relocated various structures to Clarkville, including two residential homes and the schoolhouse. The moves transported them from the nearby town of Haxtun in 1940. Initial resident Ted Clark named the town after his family. However, Clarkville’s fate changed in 1947. The owners sold the town, resulting in the gradual depopulation and ultimate abandonment of the town.