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Attractions
Event Schedule
Fast Facts
Vacation Guides
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The lure is different for each and every one of us . . .American Basin in full bloom. Endless vistas of rugged peaks from the top of a "Fourteener" world. Fish-filled mountain lakes, rivers, creeks and reservoirs. Foot, hoof, and motorized treks that promise treasured memories and spur further exploration.
Encompassing more than one thousand square miles of untamed beauty, Hinsdale County stands unrivaled when outdoor recreation, unique geology, wildflowers, abundant wildlife, and historic significance come into play. An endless list of "ah-factors" includes 96% public land, five Colorado Fourteeners, four wilderness areas, two national byways, breathtaking waterfalls and four-wheel drive roads, ghost towns, year-round trails, a backcountry haute route and yurt system, and one of the most authentic national historic districts in Colorado.
Staying true to its late 1800s "mining boom" status as the area's supply and service center, Lake City is now the everything-you-need hub for amazing hiking, climbing, fishing, hunting, boating, four-wheeling, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, and sightseeing adventures. With its special welcoming, pioneer-town feel, Lake City is also a vacation destination on its own, featuring family-oriented celebrations and year-round festivals, theatrical performances, historical tours and presentations, in-town trails and recreation, and shopping enhanced by the wares of many talented local artisans.
Hinsdale County and its historic town of Lake City are gems awaiting your discovery in Colorado's beautiful and rugged San Juan Mountains. Escape to yesteryear this year. We can almost guarantee you will come back . . . again and again.
Attractions
Alpine Loop National Back Country Byway
A 65-mile gravel road, starting and ending in Lake City. Two high-country mountain passes over 12,000 ft. Ghost towns, fourteeners, wildflowers, fishing, hiking, and camping. ATV, motorbike, or 4x4 required to cross the passes.
www.lakecity.com
Silver Thread National Scenic & Historic Byway
Colorado Highway 149 winds through historic mining towns of Lake City and Creede. Along the way, you'll fine abundant wildlife, fishing, camping, historic sites, and the Alfred Packer massacre site.
www.lakecity.com
Lake San Cristobal
The second largest natural lake in the state is also one of the most picturesque. Excellent fishing, boating, camping, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing.
www.lakecity.com
Lake City National Historic District
Over 75 historic buildings remain in one of the largest National Historic Districts in the state. See mining-era homes, commercial and civic buildings, churches, barns, and outhouses. In the historic downtown, you'll find an arts center, historic museum, walking tours, artist galleries, shopping, coffee shops, and parks.
www.lakecity.com
Event Schedule
Lake City Arts presents Carmen by Georges Bizet, March 13, 7pm. Mary Stigall Theater. Join us for Bizet's most famous opera. Carmen, a fiery Spanish rose, loves to live on the edge and uses her feminine wiles to get what she wants - but beware; play with her and you might get burned. The steadfast young soldier Don José falls hard for her charms and rashly leaves his sweetheart Michaela for a life with Carmen. But when Carmen drops him for superstar "Toreador" Escamillo, his jealousy erupts, growing into an emotional storm that could destroy them all. Our production frames Bizet's celebrated melodies in a modern, minimalistic setting, allowing for the power of the story and the drama of the characters to take center stage. True to the lure of classic Spain, Carmen will draw you deeply into an unforgettable opera experience. Ages 6th grade to adult. Admission free. donations appreciated at the door. Arias & Ensembles: Talented young performers sing popular highlights from the operatic and musical theatre repertoire! The Arias & Ensembles program features the Opera Colorado Young Artists. Designed to educate as well as entertain, these performances include background information and interesting facts about the program selections. Admission free. donations appreciated at the door
Lake City Arts presents Round Mountain. March 15. Perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Anthony Gallery in the Moseley Arts Center. Door opens at 7:00 p.m. Tickets available at the door. Admission: $15 adult/$8 child. A potluck dinner will be held at the Gallery from 5:30 to 7:00 for Hearts & Spades.
Volunteer Celebration Event, April 19, Moseley Arts Center. 5-7 pm.
Chamber Open House and Annual Membership Meeting, May 24, The Chamber will be hosting its Open House and the annual membership meeting at the Visitor Center. The meeting will begin at 4pm and the agenda will include an update on Chamber events and services, membership opportunities, and time for members to voice questions or comments. Please join us after the meeting for our Open House which will include appetizers and refreshments. We will keep everyone posted on details as they become available.
Lodging Tour hosted by Chamber of Commerce, May 25. More TBA.
Lake City - Mountaineer Marathon May 28, 2012
Lake City's newest race is the Mountaineer Marathon and Half-Marathon. The race is organized by seniors at the Lake City Community School and all proceeds benefit the LCCS sports programs. The marathon is scheduled for mid-end May 2012. The course takes runners along Henson Creek on County Road 20, with the start and finish lines in the Town Park. For more information and registration, visit the marathon's website lake-citymarathon.com
Lake San Cristobal Race 5k/10k June 2, 2012 (tentative date)
This family-friendly 5k/10k race is held in early June, making for a beautiful morning workout. Both the 5k fun run/walk and the 10k run begin along County Road 30, by Lake San Cristobal. All the races end in the Town Park, where food and drinks are available for all.
Lake City Arts presents Local Artist Show: Opening Reception for Local Artist Show, June 9 -5 - 7 p.m. at the Anthony Gallery in the Moseley Arts Center. Show runs through July 5. Gallery open Monday through Friday 1 - 4 p.m. Admission free
Live Music at the Sportsmans Backyard, June 12, 19, 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Aug 14, 21, Schedule TBA.
Lake City Arts presents East Meets West, July 16, 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center.
Lake City Arts presents Dixie Land Band, June 19,6:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. National Guard Army Band 7:00 p.m. at the Armory.
BINGO at the Armory, June 20, 23, July 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28, August 1, 4, 11 7pm. Hosted by LCHC Chamber of Commerce. Cash and merchandise prizes. 10 games. $5 per card or 5 for $20. One card covers all 10 games (Only .50 a game). All proceeds go to the Visitor Center and Chamber of Commerce.
San Juan Solstice Race 50 mile June 23, 2012
The San Juan Solstice 50 Mile Endurance Run is a grueling but scenic loop through the high San Juan Mountains consisting of five main sections: the initial climb up Alpine Gulch and descent to Williams Creek, a historic run to the old mining town of Carson, a long scenic stretch along the Continental Divide, a descent to Slumgullion Pass, and a final hump over the Vickers Ranch plateau. The San Juan Solstice 50 is for experienced trail runners only. For more information, visit www.lakecity50.com. All proceeds benefit the Lake City EMTs, our all-volunteer emergency medical team, many of whom work the aid stations on race day.
Raptor Program from Nature's Educators hosted by LCAR, June 24, 1 to 3 pm in Town Park. More info TBA.
Lake City Arts presents Chamber Music Series presents: Marelle String Quartet, June 27, Perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
High Country Craft Fair at Veterans Park July 3, 2012
Hosted at Veterans Park next to the historic Hinsdale County Courthouse, the High Country Craft Fair includes visiting and local artists showcasing a range of beautiful works from painting and photography to crafts and jewelry.
Lake City Fourth of July Event July 4, 2012
The LC/HC Chamber of Commerce hosts this long-standing tradition of family entertainment, including a parade through historic downtown, Air Force fly over, races in the Town Park for all ages, delicious food and drinks in the park, and a book sale at the Moseley Arts Center. The day is topped off with live music and a street dance followed by a thrilling fireworks show put on by our Volunteer Fire Department.
Lake City Arts presents Cabin Fever Players presents: Southern Hospitality, July 5-6, July 12-13, July 19-20, July 26-27, Perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $12 adult/$5 child ($10 for members if purchased in advance)
Lake City Arts presents Chamber Music Series presents: Colorado Woodwind Quartet, July 7,Perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Fishing Derby at Lake San Cristobal, July 8.hosted by LCAR.
Lake City Arts presents Bob Stigall's Photography Exhibit: Opening Reception, July 9- 7 p.m. at the Anthony Gallery in the Moseley Arts Center. Exhibit runs through July 31 Gallery open Monday through Friday 1 - 4 p.m. Admission free
Lake City Arts presents Halden Wofford & The Hi-Beams, July 10.7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Lake City Arts presents Acoustic Eidolon, July 11.7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Town Wide Yard Sale, July 14. Multiple yards sales hosted by individual homes/families. To sign up and be part of the map, please down load this form and return with a $10 fee by July 6th.
The 37th annual juried Arts and Crafts Fair July 17, 2012
Will be hosted by Lake City Arts, July 17, This large, outdoor fair has over 80 vendors featuring unique and handmade items. This is a great opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping, find a treasure for yourself, or simply spend a day enjoying the gorgeous July weather while admiring the fine handiwork of craftsmen from throughout Colorado and the Southwest.
Creede Repertory Theatre, July 20, 7:30 Harry the Great OPENS.
Ducky Derby & Wee Care Wee Walk, July 21, 2012 (tentative date)
Each July, a small section of the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River is flooded for just an hour or so with hundreds of ducks, rubber ducks. The Ducky Derby, hosted by the LC/HC Chamber of Commerce, is a great event where families can watch the ducks float from the Henson Creek Bridge to the 8 ½ Street Bridge. Tickets for ducks are available at many businesses and the Visitor Center throughout the summer. Prizes are awarded for 1st, 2nd, 3rd and last place ducks. The morning of the derby, Wee Care hosts the Wee Care Wee Walk, which travels through historic downtown Lake City. All proceeds from the walk benefit Wee Care.
Wolves Exhibit, July 21 & 22.Come meet real wolves hosted by LCAR. More info TBA.
Lake City Arts presents East Meets West, July 23. 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $12 adult/$5 child ($10 for members if purchased in advance)
Lake City Arts presents Honey Don't, July 24,7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Lake City Arts presents Chamber Music Series presents: Ironwood Duo, July 25, 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Furniture Fiesta, July 27, 2012
The Pioneer Jubilee Women's Club Furniture Fiesta is a fun auction and dinner that offers a spectrum of items, including hand-painted and finished furniture, one-of-a-kind pieces, art and jewelry. All items are donated and many are crafted by members of the PJWC. The auction benefits the PJWC, a community organization that donates funds to many local non-profits. For more information, visit www.pjwclakecity.org.
Lake City Arts presents East Meets West, July 30. 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $12 adult/$5 child ($10 for members if purchased in advance)
August is Lake City History Month.
The history of Hinsdale County and Lake City cannot be explored in just one day, it takes a whole month. August offers a variety of events, including historical presentations, a Victorian tea, Stick Horse Show, Walk for a Cancer Free Future, outdoor campfire talks from experts on a range of topics, a play about Lake City's slightly tawdry red light district, and more.
Lake City Arts presents Call of the West. August 1, 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Stick Horse Show, August 4, 2012 (tentative date)
In combination with Lake City's 138th anniversary celebration, this event will make you laugh, cry, and exercise all in the same breath. It includes competitions in bucking horse, barrel racing, pole bending, farrier race, calf roping, and showmanship classes. Prizes are awarded for each age group in each category and to the all-around cowboy and cowgirl in each age group. This event is open to all ages.
Lake City Arts presents Sarah Boettcher & Patrick Kelley Art & Photography Exhibit: Opening Reception, August 4,5 - 7 p.m. at the Anthony Gallery in the Moseley Arts Center. Exhibit runs through August 29 Gallery open Monday through Friday 1 - 4 p.m. Admission free
Lake City Arts presents Annual Membership Party, August 6,7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center.
Chris Austin Martinez music, August 6, Town Park hosted by LCAR.
Sheep Day, August 7, Meet and greet the sheep herders and their dogs at the top of Engineers Pass.
Lake City Arts presents Chamber Music Series presents: Rob Boone Jass Trio, August 8. 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
Lake City Arts presents Spring Creek, August 9. 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Stigall Theater in the Moseley Arts Center. Admission: $15 adult/$6 child ($13 for members if purchased in advance)
2012 Walk for a Cancer Free Future, August 10. Please keep this date in mind when you start scheduling your 2012 calendars.
Back in Thyme Victorian Tea, August 13, 2012
Museum. Noon to 2pm. This event which is a high tea benefits Helen's Garden (at the museum) and the Hinsdale County Historical Society. Some Ladies dress in 19th century Costumes...but costume or not, all are welcome. You may even borrow a hat from our hat rack at the door. Tickets ($25) will go on sale in early July at the Mosley Arts Center, and at the museum . This is our fifth year, and all previous events have sold out...so buy your tickets in advance. This is not a ladies only event ...Men are welcome! Questions call Jane Swanson. (970) 944-1214
Chris Austin Martinez music, August 13, Town Park hosted by LCAR. More info TBA.
Colorfest Arts & Crafts Fair, September 8, 2012
The Lake City Arts Colorfest Arts and Crafts Fair, held in the Town Park, offers another chance to buy unique goods from many regional craftsmen and artists while enjoying the beginning of the spectacular fall color. For more information, visit www.lakecityarts.org.
Uncorked Wine and Music Festival, September 15, 2012
Enjoy good music, good wine, good food, and good friends under the changing aspen leaves of historic Lake City. Set the third weekend in September, the festival features six music acts representing several genres, from country to rock to bluegrass to funk. Taste over 100 wines, enjoy a beer from Ska Brewing, and top it off with great food from one of the many vendors. Artisan vendors offer handcrafted treasures from blown-glass to one-of-a-kind hats and clothing. Gates open at 10:00 a.m. More information about the schedule of events, featured bands, and tickets can be found at www.lakecityfestival.org. Event proceeds benefit the community through Lake City DIRT, a local nonprofit that oversees the Main Street program. www.lakecityfestival.org
Hunter's Ball and Community Dinner, Oct 11.This event is held on the Thursday before the first rifle hunting season in Colorado. The HC/LC Chamber of Commerce hosts this evening that features dinner, several raffles, and door prizes that include hunting rifles, handguns, and handmade quilts.
Turkey Trot - Thanksgiving Day.Oct 11. A fun way to start off the Thanksgiving festivities is Lake City's annual Turkey Trot. Enjoy the three-mile walk/run and burn a few calories before tackling that turkey. The Turkey Trot is sponsored by the Hinsdale County Sheriff's Office in cooperation with the Hinsdale County Historical Society, and benefits Toys for Tots. For more information, go to www.lakecitymuseum.com.
Christmas in Lake City, December 8 (Tent) Come and enjoy Lake City as it prepares for Christmas. Listen to a brass quartet as they play Christmas carols on a downtown corner, eat goodies provided by local businesses, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and shop at the local stores. Bring your gifts to local students who will wrap them as part of a fundraising event. Evening festivities begin with the Parade of Lights through Lake City's historic downtown, which is followed by the lighting of the town Christmas tree and Christmas carols sung by local school children. The evening concludes with a performance by the Lake City Band and the Lakettes dance group in the Moseley Arts Center's Mary Stigall Theatre.
February 2013
Hot Air Balloon Festival & Snowmobile Rally - February 8, 9, 10, 2012
The Winter Festival kicks off in February with the Hot Air Balloon Festival and Snowmobile Rally. This weekend of family fun begins with a snowmobile rally on Friday morning, followed by a photo opportunity at the balloon glow Friday evening in Memorial Park. Saturday and Sunday are full of balloon rides, snowmobile rides, food, and fun for all on Lake San Cristobal. For more information, visit www.lakecitysnowmobileclub.com.
Ice Fishing Derby - February 23 (tent)
Held on the second largest natural lake in Colorado, Lake San Cristobal, the Ice Fishing Derby is a day of fun for anglers of all ages. Atop three feet of frozen lake, fish through an augured hole in the ice and enjoy lunch delivered by snowmobile. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes are awarded for the largest live length of game fish.
Ice Climbing Festival - February
The Ice Climbing Festival attracts ice climbers from all around the area.
Also, the festival offers a variety of skill-level and age categories for men
and women. Prizes are awarded at a dinner celebration following the festival. For more information about the Lake City Ice Park, go to
www.lakecityiceclimbs.com.
Matt Milski Ski Race
Join skiers from Lake City, Silverton, Wolf Creek, and beyond for a fun morning of downhill, telemark, and snowboard races. Races are for all ages. Come watch locals and visitors alike streak down the hill, vying for prizes and glory. For more information, visit www.lakecityskihill.com.
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Fast Facts
1. Lake San Cristobal was formed about 700 years ago, when the Slumgullion Earthflow sloughed off of the mesa and slid down to block the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River.
2. There are six fourteeners (14,000+ peaks) withing a few miles of Lake City: Uncompahgre, Handies, Sunshine, Wetterhorn, Redcloud, and San Luis.
3. Lake City's historic outbuildings were named to Colorado's 2010 Most Endangered Places list.
4. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, Hinsdale County is one of the few places in the contiguous United States where you can be farther than 10 miles away from a road.
5. In 1877, Susan B. Anthony visited Lake City to speak in favor of women's suffrage. She rode a horse over Slumgullion Pass, side-saddle. The crowd that came to hear her was so large that the speech had to be moved outside.
6. Hinsdale County is comprised of approximately 95% public lands, and contains parts of four National Wilderness Areas and two Wilderness Study Areas.
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