Men's Journal

Your Perfect Weekend, March 19-21

This weekend, choose your own adventure in California’s new wine country or test your mettle on a remote stretch of whitewater in Washington’s Cascade Mountains. From the luxurious to the simple, the indulgent to the adventurous, your perfect weekend awaits.

By Chase Scheinbaum and Nicholas Ayala

Your Perfect Weekend, March 12-14

To sip champagne in the snowy slopes of Aspen, or rock-climb in the deserts outside Sin City? To drink craft beer and jam rails in Michigan, or tear through powder from Friday to Sunday? These are the questions…

By Tara House, Chase Scheinbaum, and Nicholas Ayala

Clicquot in the Snow, March 12 - 14

Aspen, Colorado

This weekend take to the slopes in Aspen, where skiers will be sipping bubbly at the 3rd annual Clicquot in the Snow, sponsored by Veuve Clicquot champagne. The weekend is filled with aprés ski parties, champagne tastings, and exclusive events throughout three mountains in the Aspen area. By-the-flute specials and champagne tastings can be found at base-of-the-mountain hotspots AJAX Tavern of Little Nell, Willow Creek of The Ritz-Carlton Club at the Highlands, and The Nest and Pool Deck of Viceroy Snowmass. The event is in support of Challenge Aspen, and Veuve Clicquot will make a donation to the organization for every flute of bubbly it sells at all participating restaurants and bars.

On Friday, March 12th, Veuve and Aspen Magazine will co-host an exclusive VIP kick-off party at Kimpton’s Sky Hotel, followed by a star-studded event at the participating Viceroy Snowmass on Saturday, March 13th. Skiers and visitors are also invited to join Veuve Clicquot for the highly-anticipated party at Aspen’s newest and most buzzed-about nightclubs, Syzygy also on Saturday. Pre-reserve table packages by calling the number found here.

Other activities and giveaways will include capturing “champagne moments” in an interactive photo booth at Gondola Plaza in the center of Clicquot in the Snow, and chances to win a speciality pair of Veuve Clicquot’s famous Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, as well as Limited-Edition Ski Goggles made by Smith.

Travel and Accommodations

This weekend’s fizzy winter-wonderland adventure is open to the public and all you needto do to join in is make a reservation at any of the participating mountain resorts mentioned above.

The Aspen-Pitkin Country Airport is only a short distance from all main resorts. Full travel accommodations and directions can be found here.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, March 13-14

Las Vegas, Nevada

If you’re one to obsessively check the weather forecast at your favorite climbing areas, then you already know that this weekend looks like a perfect season-opener for Red Rock Canyon, the sandstone paradise outside Las Vegas. Temperatures in the Mojave Desert will be in the high-60s during the day, and just a hair under 50 degrees at night.

Being so close to Sin City — the Strip is a mere 17 miles to the east — you’ll have to pick your poison: will it be bouldering, sport-climbing, or all-day multipitch climbs? At Red Rocks, there are over 1,600 routes and boulder problems to choose from.

The south-facing Cat in the Hat — a five-pitch traditional 5.6+ — is an indisputable classic. It gets morning sun, and is accessed by a quick 40-minute approach through manzanita bushes and scrub oak.

After getting some mileage at the crag, put on a long-sleeved shirt and drive to the Strip for steak at Delmonico Steakhouse, Emeril Lagasse’s restaurant in The Venetian Resort Hotel and Casino. (Yes, you have to wear sleeves, but it’s worth it.) The cocktails, Cajun-inspired menu, and cigar cabinet will be a welcome way to fortify you for whatever further exploits lie ahead on the Strip.

If you haven’t had your fill after Red Rock’s climbs, hit up a roller coaster of your choosing at the Stratosphere Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. The aptly-named Insanity is a good choice: the ride spins you at three G’s from the top of the sky-piercing observation tower ($20 with admission).

Travel and Accommodations

Red Rock Campground is within spitting distance from the canyon loop road, the access point for the canyon. For $10 a night, you can have a crash pad from your adventures on the Strip, and a launching pad for your days on the cliffs.

If you’d prefer to stay indoors, grab a Las Vegas travel package that includes hotel cost and airfare to McCarran International Airport. Click here for possibilities.

Brew-SKi Festival, March 13

Harbor Springs, Michigan

In its inaugural year, the Brew-Ski Festival at Harbor Springs’ Boyne Highlands is kicking off things right with a Saturday full of snow, beer, brats, and music. With a beer tent featuring more than 100 craft brews and a rail jam open to all skiers and snowboarders, you should prepare yourself for some great beverages and amazing grinds. The beer tent is open from noon-4:00P.M. (drink tickets are $2 each, and entrance is free). Registration for the rail jam ($5) runs from noon-2:00P.M. in the sound tent and begins at 2:30P.M. Once the beer tent closes up shop, move on over to the Zoo Bar to keep the party going with live music. Check out the festival website for more info.

When you’re not sampling beer at the Brew-Ski Festival, switch it up with some wine and a bite to eat at The New York Restaurant, which offers around 300 vintages. Alternatively, you can stick around the resort and visit Boyne Highland’s Main Dining Room, or a number of other dining spots at the resort.

Looking to make a short trip to a neighboring city? Try the 20-minute drive to the Odawa Casino Resort and spend the night in Petoskey trying your luck at Blackjack.

Travel and Accommodations

From hotel rooms to cottages, Boyne Highlands offers a variety of places to rest after a day on the slopes. Take advantage of the Brew-Ski Festival package — which include accommodations and lift tickets — by visiting the website or calling 1-800-GO-BOYNE. If you want to mix it up and go for something a bit more unique, choose from a variety of vacation rentals in the area.

If you’re flying in, several airports have you covered. Catch a flight to the nearby Pellston Regional Airport or, if you have your own plane, Boyne Mountain Airport is the place to land. Other travel options can be found here.

Your Perfect Weekend, March 5-7

By Chase Scheinbaum, Nicholas Ayala, and Tara House

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour, March 6

Colorado Springs, Colorado

This weekend is your chance to see the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour — a premier venue for films focusing on adventure, outdoor sports, travel, and cultural explorations of far-flung places and far-out people. The elegant Stargazers Theater and Event Center, a concert-style hall, is an appropriately dramatic setting for footage from the film festival’s dramatic natural scenery. Your ticket to this multi-destination expedition is a mere $15.

This weekend’s crisp 50-degree weather is a fantastic time to hop on a mountain bike. Palmer Park, a 2,000-acre park in the city is home to a dizzying amount of highly varied single-track (think rolling beginner terrain to boulder balance-beams and other techie stuff).

For diehards who think that anything warmer than 50 degrees is too hot for climbing, there are the ultra-classic sandstone fins at Garden of the Gods. The climbing here is mostly traditional, on improbable rock formations in one of the most gorgeous settings in the country. See a map, extensive route information, and photos here.

Travel and Accommodations

With evening temps hovering around freezing, it’s also a great excuse for a night under the stars. Garden of the Gods Campground will give you a slice of this incredible country to call your own for just $26 per night.

Fly direct to Colorado Springs, or make the drive from Denver in just over an hour. Colorado Springs lies on I-25, just a short jog south of Denver. From many points east and west, taking I-70 to Denver first is your ticket to a perfect weekend.

National Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show, March 5-7

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Escape the cold and snow for a weekend of spice and sun at the National Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show at the Sandia Resort & Casino in Albuquerque. Now in its 22^nd year, this show boasts more than 200 exhibitor booths offering samples and products to give your food a kick.

When you’re not perusing the aisles at this annual event, take advantage of the venue’s on-site golf course and casino when the Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show is closed to the public. After you’ve spent a weekend golfing in the sun, eating spicy food and gambling big, be sure to wind down with a trip to the Green Reed Spa for a hot river-stone massage.

Of course, no weekend getaway is complete without great food. Enjoy fine dining at Bien Shur at the resort with some buffalo tenderloin or venture into town for some Strauss Farms grass-fed veal scallopine at the Artichoke Café.

If you’re looking to enjoy some time outside the resort, stop by Balloon Fiesta Park, home to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, to stroll or bike through the 360-acre park. For more of a challenge, take on the Sandia Mountains — conveniently located right outside the door. Hiking info can be found here.

Event hours for the general public at the Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show are 4 PM to 7 PM Friday, 11 AM to 7 PM Saturday and 11 AM to 6 PM Sunday. Buy tickets at the door for $15 or save five bucks by purchasing tickets online in advance here.

For more information, visit the Fiery Foods & Barbecue website.

Travel and Accommodations

To be at the center of it all, stay at the Sandia Resort & Hotel and receive special rates when you mention the National Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show. Other nearby hotels also offer special rates if you mention the show. With the Sandia Resort & Casino being a short drive away, fly to the Albuquerque International Sunport.

Travel and Accommodation

Lassen Volcanic National Park is about a four-hour drive from Reno, Nevada. Fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport, and rent a car. The park is located about 30 miles east of California’s I-5.

Your Perfect Weekend, February 26-28

What better way to spend this winter weekend than biking 33 miles up 2,675 feet of hilly terrain to find a pot of chili waiting for you at the finish line? Film screenings in between powder runs and snow sports at The Big Lepowski in Utah might take the cake. It’s your call.

By Tara House and Chase Scheinbaum

Chilly Hilly, February 26-28

Bainbridge Island and Seattle, Washington

A perfect weekend awaits on Bainbridge Island in Seattle, where the Chilly Hilly has been a celebrated annual event for 36 years. The 33-mile bike ride, named “One of Four Classic Rides” in the nation by Bicycling Magazine, kicks off the cycling season in the Pacific Northwest.

The event begins on Sunday with a scenic, early-morning ride on the Washington State Ferry, across the Puget Sound from mainland Seattle to Bainbridge. Enjoy complimentary hot cider and baked goods, served by local Girl Scouts at the American Legion Hall, as well as warm bowls of chili at the finish line in support of Squeaky Wheels Cycling Cub and 10 other local Bainbridge Island charities.

The course opens at 8:00 A.M., and attendees and riders alike may enjoy the terrain until 3:00 P.M.

Day-of registration will be open under the Viaduct in mainland Seattle from 7:00 A.M. - 10:00 A.M., and from 7:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. at the B.I. Cycle Shop on the island.

Check out the website for more info.

Lodging Accommodations

Bainbridge Island Only

If you’re seeking a hot tub to soak aching muscles before or after the big ride and home-cooked meals in front of a crackling fire, Bainbridge Island Vacation Rentals offers everything from luxury, private waterfront homes to cozy cabins in the woods. Don’t forget to mention Cascade Bicycle Club and the Chilly Hilly to save $25 on bookings. Other accommodations can be found here on Cascade’s website.

Mainland Seattle

Check out the Kitsap Peninsula for a mainland stay, and make sure to visit Pioneer Square, the heart of old Seattle. For a trendier Seattle experience, Belltown is the way to go. Don’t forget the famous Pike Place Market.

The Big LePowSki, February 25-27

Brighton and Salt Lake City, Utah

Named for the film following you favorite shiftless layabout, The Big Lepowski is a full weekend of partying, film screenings and snow sports clinics. Seventy-five bucks buys you two clinics, lunch, and a lift ticket to Brighton resort. That’s over 1,000 acres of the Wasatch’s best natural slopes and a terrain park spanning nearly 2,000 vertical feet.

Backcountry basics, avy skills, splitboarding, and park tricks are just a few of the topics covered by the pros on hand. Just make sure to bring your own gear (including cameras or avalanche gear if you’re taking those classes).

Try the Porcupine Pub and Grille for an off-mountain skier hangout with plenty of tap beers from Utah’s emerging micro breweries. Or, for an unforgettable fish burrito hit vaunted local favorite Lone Star Taqueria just a few minutes from the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Click here to see a map.

If you prefer to eat and drink in the dark — while watching a movie on the big screen, that is — Brewvies Cinema Pub has what you’re looking for, with booze and games to boot.

Register here in advance for the event, or show up at 8 A.M. to register in person at Brighton. Find video footage from last year’s Lepowski here.

Lodging and Accommodation

Brighton Lodge, just steps from the lifts at The Big LePowSki venue, is certainly close to the action. Try Mount Majestic Properties for other options in Big Cottonwood and other nearby canyons, or, for an urban, boutique-y hotel experience, check out downtown Salt Lake’s Hotel Monaco, with rooms starting at about $140 per night.

Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport from most major airports. Make sure to get there by Thursday evening for LePowSki’s kickoff backcountry film festival held downtown.

Your Perfect Weekend, February 20-21

A casual tour of Austin on a cruiser bike or a snow triathlon above 10,000 feet in the shadow of Colorado’s 14ers? Whether you want to spend your evenings experiencing roller-derby from the stands, chomping on barbecue, or recovering in a natural hot spring jacuzzi, we’ve got your perfect weekend dialed.

By Chase Scheinbaum

Snow triathlon, Leadville, Colorado, February 20-21

Leadville and Nathrop, Colorado

Bookend your stay in this 14er-laden part of the Rockies with a soak in a bubbling hot spring just steps from your cabin’s backdoor. You’ll need the relaxation — and the warmth — if you complete the Street Swell Winter Triathlon on Saturday. It’s eight kilometers of skate-skiing, 10 kilometers of biking, and five kilometers of snowshoeing in the lower-48’s highest region. The grueling course runs through Colorado Mountain College’s Timberline campus above Leadville. What it lacks in air molecules it more than makes up for in scenery.

At 10,000 feet, you’ll be thankful for the hot springs just a short trot from your rustic luxury cabin (starting at $275) at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort down the road in Nathrop. Cabins that sleep six to eight are available; as are cabins that sleep eight to 10 people. Check out their web site for more info.

There are 30 pools made with stones arranged along the banks of Chalk Creek, where 130-degree spring water blends with cooler water from the creek to allow temperature customization. For supreme decadence, massage therapists are available at the resort’s lodge. So are lamb chops and steak.

Get a race registration form and other details here. Race day registration is $40.

Post race, replenish your blood sugar level at the Manhattan Bar in Leadville.

Lodging and Accommodation

Nathrop is a little under an hour from Leadville, where the race is held. Fly into Aspen, Colorado Springs, or Denver airports, and rent a car.

2010 Governnor’s Cup Double Elimination Tournament, Austin, Texas

February 20-21

This weekend, get to Austin before the crowds of South by Southwest to experience some homegrown entertainment that most South by Southwest visitors won’t: the Texas Roller Girls roller derby league.

At first, watching roller derby feels like a novelty. But the open-rink checking and real athleticism remind you that you’re also watching serious athletes compete — not just scantily-clad women on roller skates.

The tournament is $20 per day; or $35 for both days, with up to seven games over the weekend. For more info, and to watch a clip of two teams from the Austin-based league duke it out, click the link above. Get tickets here.

The action at the rink starts Saturday morning, but breaks between games leave enough time to squeeze in your swim workout at Barton Springs Pool. A naturally spring-fed body, the three-acre pool stays a comfortable 68-degrees year-round — about the same as the air temperature in the balmy winter playground that is Austin, Texas.

After the action on the flat track, don’t miss the down-home Texas barbecue at Iron Works BBQ in Austin, located in what was an iron workshop for most of last century.

Lodging and Accommodations

Hotel San Jose, a dog-friendly, urban-bungalow affair in a stylish neighborhood, rents bikes to tour the city with. Rooms start at $95. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is Austin’s go-to hub for air travel.

Your Perfect Weekend, February 13 - 15

Try a different take on chocolates and roses this long weekend: Hear the call of the wild on a dog-powered sled trip in Canada, take a stab at some of North America’s premier ice climbing in Wyoming, or, between sips of local craft brews, boulder and surf the California coast.

By Chase Scheinbaum and Yang-Yi Goh

Dog Sledding in Algonquin Provincial Park, February 13-14

South River, Ontario, Canada

This weekend, embrace your inner Jack London and lead a team of Alaskan sled dogs across the rugged terrain of beautiful Algonquin Provincial Park. (Click here for more info.) Fall asleep as both the dogs and wind howl outside your wood-heated prospector tent. If you’re not a dog person, the area is perfect for a number of other winter sports, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.

Travel and Accommodation

Fly into Toronto’s Pearson International Airport and rent a car. It’s about a 2-and-a-half to 3-hour drive to South River. If you plan on sticking around a couple extra nights, it’s best to stay in nearby Huntsville. There are plenty of hotels in town to choose from, but we recommend Cedar Grove Lodge. Its 19 rustic, eco-friendly cabins are perfect for kicking back by the fire after a long day in the cold.

12th Annual Water Fall Ice Festival, February 13-15

Cody, Wyoming

The frozen north of Wyoming beckons. Known as the Rodeo Capital of the World, Cody is also home to scores of waterfalls that line the Shoshone River Valley. These frozen tongues provide the venue for the 12th Annual Water Fall Ice Festival. Climbers can expect glorious ice climbing conditions with daytime temperatures in the high 30s, short approaches, and Bighorn Sheep sightings. In addition to the area’s Rocky Mountain charm and abundance of fat ice, it’s a gateway to Yellowstone National Park.

Hardcore snow junkies can have the park virtually to themselves — save for a few buffalo — for a ski tour if you’re staying a couple extra days. Yellowstone Expeditions offers fully guided ski tours, meals, and overnight stays in a yurt inside the park.

Taste the prime rib and a bit of Wild West history at Cody’s Irma Hotel, where Wild West personalities like Buffalo Bill and Calamity Jane once stayed.

Travel and Accommodations

The Cody hotel offers ultra plush accommodations — there’s a hot tub — to warm cold digits after a day on the ice. Flat screen TVs and iPod docking stations are found in each of their 75 suites.

Cody is in a remote corner of the Rockies. You’ll be flying into Yellowstone Regional Airport if traveling by air, with many connecting flights going through Salt Lake City International Airport.

San Francisco Beer Week, February 5-14

San Francisco, California, and surrounding region

For a perfect weekend that involves perfect brews, head out to Northern California to catch the tail end of San Francisco Beer Week. With over 200 events spanning the 10-day festival, there are plenty remaining events scheduled for this weekend and a slew of Bay Area craft brews to sample.

Kick things off Saturday morning with the “Beerunch” at Barclay’s Restaurant & Pub in Oakland. Beer pairings will be recommended with the menu (click the restaurant’s link to view), but how could you resist MateVeza’s Organic Yerba Mate IPA, brewed with the South American tea?

Or if you’d prefer to wait until the evening to hit the hooch, check out Mickey’s Beach (a nudist beach as well as a climbing destination) on the other side of the Golden Gate for some classic moderate boulder problems, complete with soft landings and ocean mist. Click here for info.

Also try Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream in San Francisco for a unique melding of two of life’s great pleasures: beer and ice cream.

But what’s a trip to California without experiencing the legendary surf? Pack a wetsuit and zip over to Outer Sunset on the N Judah streetcar from downtown. Click here for more info about how to get there, what to eat while you’re there, and more.

You can end your nights in the area with $4 drafts at Alembic, where happy hour takes place from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Travel and Accommodation

Special Beer Week rates can be found at the following list of hotels for as little as $75 per night. Camping in redwood groves is an option, too, at Samuel P. Taylor State Park, across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, in Marin County.

From San Francisco International Airport, rent a car or jump on the Bay Area Rapid Transit system and ride to downtown to hook up with the cable car network, if you prefer public transportation.

Your Perfect Weekend, February 6-7

Your perfect weekend kicks off long before the Super Bowl begins. The day before the big game, it’s all about finding some competition of your own. Hit Vermont’s backcountry powder in a randonnee ski race, or tear up the single track in Texas for 12 hours of mountain biking. Either way, the beer and the dip will taste that much better on Sunday.

By Chase Scheinbaum

Mountain Hardwear Ski Mountaineering Race, January 6

Mad River Valley, Vermont

Blast into the Vermont backcountry this weekend at the Mountain Hardwear Ski Mountaineering Race. Starting at the base of Mad River Glen Ski Area, skiers skin and shred their way off piste via the famous Long Trail, ending at Sugarbush resort. Click here for a race map.

Lodging & Accommodation

Stay at Sugarbush Inn and ski from the race’s end almost directly to your digs for the night and into the hands of a massage therapist operating out of the inn. If you’re too sore to leave the building the next day, no sweat. Use the inn’s sauna and catch the Super Bowl from your room. Otherwise, book a ticket now to catch the game at Burlington’s 156 Bistro.

Mad River Glen is about an hour from Burlington International Airport, your best best if traveling by air.

The Dirty Dozen Mountain Bike Race, January 6

Warda, Texas

The Dirty Dozen Mountain Bike Race is another great way to get some exercise before game day. Go it alone, or grab some buddies and head to Bluff Creek Ranch where you’ll find eight miles of blissful single track to ride in this relay race. Teams of one to five can enter the 12-hour endurance smackdown, or the six-hour version of the race.

Lodging & Accommodation

The Bluff Creek Ranch offers rooms with queen-size beds and jacuzzis for $50 per night. Tent and RV camping is available on the ranch, too. Watch the game on Sunday at Champions in Austin.

The ranch is about an hour-and-a-half by car from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, or two-and-a-half hours from George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston.

Your Perfect Weekend, January 30-31

With a break in the NFL action before the big game next Sunday, take the opportunity to get out into the great wide open. The Scandinavian art of skijoring beckons in Montana, as does round-the-clock racing in Daytona.

By Chase Scheinbaum

Whitefish Skijoring, January 30-31

Whitefish, Montana

This weekend, mount up for a weekend of skijoring in Whitefish, Montana. Or, if you don’t fancy being towed by a horse at high speeds while slaloming and launching off ski jumps, watch from the sidelines with a hot beverage. Or, ski the normal way: nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort boasts an average of 300 inches of annual snowfall on its 94 marked trails.

The annual skijoring competition is held in conjunction with the Whitefish Winter Carnival, held Feb. 5 through 7; this year’s event celebrates Glacier National Park’s centennial. Novices as well as seasoned veterans of the ancient Scandinavian discipline are welcome to compete. Only the brave, however, stand a chance. Click here for more info.

Travel & Accommodation

Whitefish is served by Glacier Park International Airport, but a limited number of airlines and flights touch down there, so be sure to leave time for connecting flights.

Rolex 24 at Daytona, January 30-31

Daytona Beach, Florida

The year’s auto racing season kicks off this weekend at Daytona International Speedway with the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Even die-hard racing fans will need a break from the 24-hour action on the track, though. Luckily, there are plenty of diversions on hand, beginning with a 5-k run-walk that takes place just before the pro drivers take to the pavement.

Splurge for the $535-per-person Rolex Executive Suite package and watch the action from a climate-controlled room. Take a trip to “Taste of the 24″ at any time for live music, drinks, food from local restaurants, or to hit the cigar bar.

Chili lovers can enter their recipe or sample many others at the Chili Cook-Off. For more refined palates, the wine and cheese party should suffice.

Travel & Accommodation

Fly into Daytona Beach International Airport.

Your Perfect Weekend, January 22-24

This weekend shake off the winter blues ice climbing and watching movies at Sundance, sharpening your skills before the Olympics at Bethel Winterfest in Maine, or sample Colorado’s best microbrew offerings in Denver.

By Diane Kahng and Chase Scheinbaum

Sundance Film Festival, January 21-31
Park City, Utah, and surrounding region

The only problem with heading to Park City, Utah to catch the first weekend of the Sundance Film Festival — and taste Utah’s famous airy powder — is the overabundance of choices. The festival’s films are shown in a variety of settings throughout the region in Park City, Salt Lake City, Ogden and Sundance. (Get a film guide and purchase tickets here.)

And then there are the ski resorts: the Wasatch Mountains are home to more than a dozen of them, replete with terrain types from ridges and bowls to bunny slopes.

Don’t forget to sharpen your crampons, either. You can start your tour of the area’s ice climbing at Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon. After fueling up at one of the region’s gourmet restaurants, hit the bars and clubs to rub elbows with the film-elite.

Travel & Accommodation
The region is served primarily by Salt Lake City International Airport. Click here to find lodging through the film festival’s web site. Many hotels can arrange shuttle service to and from the airport.

Bethel Winterfest, January 23-31
Bethel, Maine

If what you seek is winter, you’ll find plenty of it in and around Bethel, Maine, where this weekend the Bethel Winterfest kicks off with a potpourri of events. Start things off with an uphill snowmobile climb alongside professional riders on Saturday, and then warm up with a guided snowshoe tour or Nordic skiing clinic at the Bethel Nordic Ski Center.

With your newly spruced-up ski technique, grab an air rifle and register for Sunday’s six-kilometer biathlon race, complete with two shooting stops.

For more skiing you can hit 25-kilometers of cross-country trails at Bethel Nordic Ski Center, or Sunday River Ski Resort’s 132 downhill trails.

Travel and Accommodation

Fly into Portland International Jetport in Portland, Maine; Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in Manchester, N.H.; General Edward Lawrence Logan International Airport in Boston; or drive.

Winter Brew Fest, January 22
Denver, CO

This weekend, head over to the Winter Brew Fest over in Denver, Colorado, and be the first to sip some of the state’s best craft brews. Sponsored by Sierra Nevada and Cabot Cheese, you can kick back your buds at the Mile High Station near Invesco Field and enjoy live reggae music by Jubal and the Rude Boys, food and cheese pairings, and art.

Breweries you can sample from include Sierra Nevada, Oskar Blues, Twisted Pine, Boulder Beer, Breckenridge, Flying Dog, and many more. Tickets are between $30-$35, or if you want to step up your game, pay $40-$45 for the VIP admittance.

Travel and Accommodation

The Denver International Airport is your best bet if you’re flying in for the weekend. Check out Hotel VQ since the hotel is offering special Brew Fest rates, plus free parking and transportation to Mile High Station and downtown attractions.

Your Perfect Weekend, January 15-17

If you can’t decide between a tropical getaway and playing in the snow, we have you covered. This weekend, history buffs can revel in the USS Missouri’s return to Pearl Harbor and catch a few waves at nearby Waikki Beach, or chill out at the High On Ice Festival with professional ice carvers and take to Whistler’s slopes just before the Olympic crowd shreds the snow.

By Diane Kahng

USS Missouri, January 15, 2010
Pearl Harbor, HI

This weekend, be the first to see the USS Missouri’s $18 million facelift when she re-opens her doors in Pearl Harbor after three months of restoration. Guided tours of the 887-foot battleship, nicknamed the “Mighty Mo,” will take you through the ship’s history, from the bombing raiders of Tokyo to the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The ship’s own deck, now named the Battleship Missouri Memorial, is where the Japanese and Allied officials famously signed the surrender documents in 1945. The USS Missouri was also the last U.S. battleship to be launched and decommissioned.

If military history isn’t enough to convince you to embark on a well-deserved Aloha vacation, consider that Pearl Harbor is just a short drive away from the legendary Waikki Beach. As the former stomping grounds for Hawaiian royalty, this is also where Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, caught his waves, and you can, too.

Travel and Accommodation

Fly into Pearl Harbor’s closest airport, the Honolulu International, grab a drink at the local bar, then call up your Waikiki hotel for a pick-up at a nominal fee. Check out a list of hotels in the area.

High On Ice Festival, January 15-17, 2010
Fort St. John, B.C.

Embrace the winter cold snap and try your hand at ice carving at the High On Ice Festival in BC this weekend. Hosted by the Arts Council in partnership with the City of Fort St. John, the festival accommodates all skill levels to accommodate everyone’s budding inner-artist.

People come from as far away as Russia and Japan to compete for the $15,000 worth of prizes in two categories — Abstract and Realistic. All creations must qualify for the Festival’s “Spirit Within” theme. The festival also includes a community celebration with toboggan races, activities for kids, sledding, ice fishing, Comedy Night, and more.

If you prefer powder to ice, Whistler Blackcomb is within your reach. The mountain is gearing up for the Olympics, so catch the fresh powder and beat the crowds while you can. Plus, they’re offering special packages for the next few weeks: three nights, two days, from $115.

Travel and Accommodation

Fly into Vancouver International Airport, then check into one of these hotels in the Fort St. John area. Just make sure you pack some thick wool socks, enough for ice carving and hitting the slopes before heading home.

Your Perfect Weekend, January 8-10

In many ways, 2009 was a disappointing year. This weekend is an opportunity to put your own stamp on the past. Get amped for the Vancouver Olympics by celebrating the the fiftieth anniversary of the 1960 games at Squaw Valley, celebrate the 75th birthday of the king of rock n’ roll by kicking up your blue-suede shoes in Memphis, or see the newest steel on four-wheels as Detroit revs up for the North American International Auto Show.

By Diane Kahng and John Cookson

Olympic Heritage Celebration, January 8-17

Squaw Valley, California

Fifty years before Vancouver there was Squaw Valley, and this weekend the snowy slopes rounding the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe will host the golden anniversary of the 1960 Winter Olympics. This weekend’s celebration includes a range of events from biathlon and cross-country demonstrations to alpine and Nordic ski races, as well as a flurry of parties each evening. Friday begins with a commemorative torch relay by 1960 Olympians, members of the 1960 Olympic Ski Patrol, current Squaw Valley ski patrol, and Gold medal U.S. Olympian Jonny Mosley, all followed by a fireworks display that night. On Saturday, there is a biathlon demonstration, including a tutorial on how the gear has evolved since the 60s. While that night, the Olympic House hosts a 1960 Retro Party until the early hours. Sunday, see how your forefathers attacked the slopes as the Plumas Ski Club demonstrates longboarding at the Squaw Valley Resort Run. This throwback sport uses 10 to 15 foot long skis constructed of tight, vertical-grained Douglas fir with leather bindings controlled by a single six-foot long pole with a wood block at the end. For more information, including a full list of events, see here.

Travel & Accommodation

Reno Tahoe International Airport, is a quick 40 miles away via all-weather interstate 80 and is served by major carriers with flights from most US destinations. Pick up Snowball’s Chance: The Story of the 1960 Olympic Winter Games to study up en route. See here for more information, including lodging availability, at Squaw Valley, and see here for a North Lake Tahoe.

Elvis Turns 75, January 7-10

Memphis, Tennessee

The King is dead, long live the King, and in that spirit Graceland is hosting a 75th birthday party for his blue-suede, hound-dog highness, Elvis Presley. All of Memphis will be out this weekend for a range of events, including a bar crawl along Beale Street, an Elvis-themed NBA game between the Memphis Grizzles and the Utah Jazz, Elvis Bingo, an Elvis Dance Party, and even a special performance by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra playing a repertoire for Elvis originals and arrangements from his films. See here for a full list of festivities. Oh, yes, there will be cake, too, on Friday at the Chrome Grille across the street from Graceland, right after a 9:30 a.m. ceremony to mark the official start of Elvis Presley Day. If you can’t make it, watch live here.

Escape the city to explore the banks of the Mississippi River to the west and Holly Springs National Forest to the east. The cold front moving across this weekend may nix camping, but a chance to hike the surrounding wilderness is worth the trip. Who knows, you may even run into the king.

Travel & Accommodation

Touch down in the land of the Delta Blues by flying to Memphis International Airport. The Memphis Marriott East is the official host hotel for Elvis’ Birthday Celebration, offering a special rate of $89 for the nights of January 7th to 9th.

2010 North American International Auto Show, January 11-24
Detroit, Michigan

It’s hard out there for the American car industry right now — all the more reason to show some support for Detroit. Join the car buffs and industry experts at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan this weekend, where you’ll find a series of previews and over 700 vehicles on display at the Cabo Center. Seven new automakers will debut at the show, and there will be a special emphasis on green-friendly electric, solar-powered, battery operated, and hydrogen-powered rides. Keep an eye on BYD, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Th!nk. Expect to see the small engine trend on display at the show as V-8s in passenger cars are phased out for four-cylinder engines that offer greater fuel efficiency take over.

After admiring all the shiny new cars, see them in action at the EcoXperience. Hosted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), EcoXperience will feature a landscaped ride-and-drive test track with electric vehicles zooming by. Check here for tickets and event times.

Travel & Accommodations

There’s an arctic cold snap across the country, but luckily the Detroit People Mover physically links the Cobo to all the downtown hotels and entertainment places. Fly into Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) via Delta Airlines, the official airline for the NAIAS 2010, and then check into one of these hotels arranged through the NAIAS Travel Headquarters.

Your Perfect Weekend October January 1-3

Ring in the new year with the latest and greatest road hogs at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show in Michigan, or enter the cold fray of Wisconsin’s Ice Wars on your snowmobile.

By Diane Kahng

Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows, Jan 1-3
Novi, MI

Whether you’re a longtime motorcycle enthusiast or Santa gave you your very first ride just last week, you’ll want to check out the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show this weekend in Novi, Michigan. Making a 12 city tour, the show will feature hundreds of the latest street and dirt bikes, cruisers, scooters, and ATVs, including the new 2010 Kawasaki Z1000 Street Supersport, 2010 Ducati Hypermotard, 2010 Star Raider, 2010 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy Lo, 2010 Honda VRF1200F, and a slew of the newest fuel-efficient models .

You’ll find special deals and discounts on shiny new rides, accessories, and clothing. Head over to the Free Gear Check to learn more about specifics, or hang out at the Hub to ask about advanced riding techiques.

After touring the collection of vintage bikes at the History of Motorcycles exhibit, seek out some entertainment at either the Bikes & Beats presented by TapouT or the 2Wheel Tuner Model Search Presented by LeoVince. Models will be vying for a feature story with 2Wheel Turner Magazine. UFC fighter Kendall Grove will be on hand for autographs, while fans watch previous fights and clips on the big screen. Tickets start at $12, or check out other multi-day deals.

Travel and Accommodations
Jet into Detroit Metro Airport and make the 20-mile drive to Novi. Check out nearby hotels and a list of other attractions in the area.

Ice Wars, Jan 1-3
Portage County, WI
If you have an insatiable passion for winter sport, try entering into the USSA sanctioned Ice Wars in Portage County, Wisconsin for some snowmobile racing. Sign up for a class specific to your experience level and age, then get ready to make deep cuts into the 18 inch thick ice tracks. Extensive background in snowmobiling isn’t necessary, and chances are if you’ve grown up in Wisconsin, you already have all the experience you need. Speeds will vary depending on your sled model, but expect to make corners of 75-80 miles an hour. Champs often hit 105 miles on the straightaway.

As a competitor, there are big name brands to choose among for your sled: Bombardier, Polaris, Arctic Cat, and Yamaha. Vintage sleds that have been resorted (boosting their speeds from 30mph to 80mph) are also available if you prefer a throw-back. Or, if you’re a seasoned champion traveling from as far away as Alaska, Canada, or New York, feel free to bring your own ride. Even after the races, there are thousands of miles of trail leading all the way into Michigan that are ideal for cruising.

Travel and Accommodation
Check into one of these hotels that offer an Ice Wars room rate of $85, plus a free beer. There’s always the option to fly into a nearby airport, or, as previously mentioned, you can always snowmobile from Michigan.

Your Perfect Weekend, Dec 18-20th

Shake up this weekend by giving your favorite winter activities a new twist. Go sans snow by boarding the sand dunes in Oregon, tour Yellowstone’s hotbed of hydrothermal terrain by snowmobile, or tame the winter wind by snowkiting in Utah.

By Diane Kahng and John Cookson

Sandboarding, December 18-20th

Florence, Oregon

This weekend, trade the packed slopes for the rolling dunes and frostbitten fingers for a flurry-free adventure at Sand Master Park, which bills itself as the world’s first sandboarding park. You won’t need to jet to Brazil or Egypt to try this arid alternative to the alpine run. Nestled in the Oregon coastline along Route 101 is a stateside Mecca for this fast-growing sand sport. Begin on the forty-foot practice ramp at the park to get a feel for the difference between coarser sand and softer powder, and then take on Sand Master’s forty-acre expanse of dunes, offering everything from gentle slopes to steep ridges. Board rental for 24 hours ranges from $10 for discount models to $35 for special purpose sandboards with high-end bindings. Rentals may be used on or off the premises, which is great as over 200 acres of dunes lies on the park’s horizons.

TRAVEL and ACCOMMODATION

Fly to Florence Municipal Airport, which is near the park. After a day of zipping down the dunes, aim the nose of your car either north or south on the 101 and drive. There are clusters of campgrounds strewn along the Pacific highway, including a number of unusual habitation options for rent, such as the odd yurt.

Yellowstone National Park, December 18-20th
Rocky Mountain Range, Wyoming

Pack your mittens and get ready to rev up a snowmobile at Yellowstone National Park. As of last Tuesday, the park opened its roads to 318 commercially guided BAT snowmobiles and 78 snowcoaches. These snowmobiles have four-stroke engines that are cleaner and quieter than the traditional two-stroke so visitors can lessen their carbon footprints. While you can only stick to the groomed park roads riding the park’s vehicles, visitors are free to hike, snowshoe and cross-country ski off the beaten path.

The 3,500 sq. mile park is renowned for its wildlife, and early winter can be a good time to see bears, elk, bison, and wolves before they go into hiding. While spying on wildlife and checking out famous landmarks like Old Faithful, the thermal features in the background will offer a stark contrast to the frigid temperatures. Yellowstone boasts about one-half of the world’s hydrothermal features, including hot pools, mud pots, steam vents and geysers. In fact, you may want to trek out to a hot pool on your skis, dip in, then head to a nearby lodge to setup camp. Outdoor camping this time of year is recommended only for the bravest of souls. Check out this page for fees and reservations.

For even more opportunities to ski, Big Sky Resort is just a few miles south of the park. Lone Mountain is also famous for cross-country skiing, also offering courses for beginners.

TRAVEL and ACCOMMODATION

Since Yellowstone is shared by three states (Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho), you have your choice of airports from Cody and Jackson, WY, Bozeman and Billings, MT, and Idaho Falls, ID. Check in at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge that opens tomorrow, Friday, December 18^th and make sure you look into their travel packages offered throughout the year.

Snowkiting Wasatch Plateau, December 18-20th

Mt. Pleasant, Utah

For those set on the snowy slopes but looking for a twist, try snowkiting. Skyline Drive in Utah has become a watershed for the sport in the last five years, drawing kiters from across the globe to its snowpack terrain of ridge-runs and flat expanses. The formidable winds sliding along above the tree line here make it the perfect place to unfurl your foil and launch out into this sport. Kite Utah is one of several outfitters in the area that can get you up and flying. An intro clinic, which runs $75 for 1-2 hours, is geared for those with little to no previous kiting experience and covers a range of topics from equipment to flight theory and micro-meteorology. By the end of the course you should understand all the gear, have a basic knowledge of kiteboarding, and be able to fly all models of kites. Or, make a weekend of it by signing up for a snowkiting camp, starting at about $250 a person, which outfits you with a cabin, meals, and lessons for one night and two days.

TRAVEL and ACCOMMODATION

Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport, and then drive the I-15 and US-89 south to Mt. Pleasant. For a place to stay, Kite Utah recommends the Skyline Motel (435-462-3312, $60.00 per night), the Horseshoe Motel (435-463-9330, $65.00 per night), the Wind Walker Guest Ranch, the Willow Creek Inn (435-283-4566), and Skyline Mountain Resort (435-426-9590).

Your Perfect Weekend, December 11-13

Mosey on over to Monterey, California, this weekend for the Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival, range the icy expanse at the Sandstone Ice Festival in frigid Minnesota, or slip down to the Mississippi River Delta for a weekend of swamp touring and gumbo.

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Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival, December 11-13
Monterey, California

Grab a saddle and hitch up a pony to join the Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival this weekend. This shindig will give you three days of western tunes by Lacy J. Dalton, Mike Lopez, the Gillette Brothers, and more. Listen to live poetry performances given by artists such as Doris Daley, Jess Howard, and Pat Richardson, then window shop and bid on some cowboy art and gear through the silent auction. Don’t miss the chance to ride the open ranges like a real cowboy at the Holman Ranch.

Finally, relax for a few minutes of quiet conversation at Sunday morning’s bonfire with hot coffee provided. Tickets can be purchased here.

While you’re in Monterey, you can also catch a glimpse of over 6,500 underwater critters and almost 200 exhibits at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium ($30). Or if you want to sample some of the best flavors to come out of California, stop by the Baywood Cellars’ Tasting Room owned by a family-run winery. Visit here for contact information for tickets.

Travel and Accommodation
Fly into scenic Monterey Peninsula Airport, then check into one of the hotels that have agreed to offer special rates for festival participants.

Sandstone Ice Festival, December 11-13
Sandstone, Minnesota

This weekend, hit up the Sandstone Ice Festival in the frigid temperatures of Sandstone, Minnesota. Once there, show off your skills at ice climbing clinics while checking out the latest gear with other avid climbers at Robinson Quarry ice park, which boasts both indoor and outdoor climbing facilities and training sessions. Refresh your winter camping skills at one of the two clinics led by Ed Bouffard where you can learn about “hot tents,” dressing properly, feeding yourself, and the latest in Ski Pulks. Remember to bring any personal gear that you’re interested in switching out at the Great “SWAP & SWING” where you can swap or cash in your stuff for equipment deals. The gear demos will also provide an opportunity to see the latest and greatest in ice climbing gear designs. In addition, super-star ice climber, Dawn Glanc, will be there as this year’s guest speaker.

Finally, be prepared to share your best vegetarian or non-vegetarian chili at the Frozen Kettle Chili Cook-off, or at least volunteer to be a judge. On Sunday afternoon, the American Chili Foundation will be moderating the contest. The list of entry rules is found here.

Travel and Accommodation
The St. Paul International Airport is only an hour from your destination. The festival has paired up with certain hotels to offer discounted rates.

Mississippi River Delta Weekend, December 11-14

New Orleans, LA

There are times for decadent NOLA, for a night of reveling along Bourbon Street followed by a morning of nursing a chicory-blend coffee at Café Du Monde. Then there are times, such as this weekend, to skirt the French Quarter and explore the ecological wonderland that is the Mississippi River Delta’s coastal wetlands and salt marshes.

But you can’t come to the Big Easy without a taste of the local melting-pot culture, so stop by the Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival, presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation and being held this Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There will be plenty of great jazz to go with the gumbo, including performances by Kermit Ruffins, Shamarr Allen, and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews.

Once fed, escape the city for a trek into the Louisiana swamps. A number of outfits, including the Louisiana Tour Company, offer excursions into alligator-land. Keep an eye out for fowl — the bald eagles, pelicans, gulls and herons — as well, since on Monday begins the Audubon Society’s 110th Annual Christmas Bird Count, the longest running citizen science survey in the world in which tens of thousands of volunteers track bird populations from Alaska to Antarctica.

On Saturday night, a short drive east on I-10 will take you to Gulfport, Miss., where you can see a flotilla of nearly seventy boats decked out bow to stern with Holidays lights at the Christmas on the Bayou parade.

Travel and Accommodation

Fly into the Louis Armstrong International Airport, then book a room.

Your Perfect Weekend, December 4-6

December has arrived, and with 2009 winding down, now is the perfect time for an adventure. This weekend join the pack by dog sledding the snowy flats in northern Minnesota, tour one of the premier arts festivals in sunny Miami, or check out the future of cars at the L.A. Auto Show.

By Diane Kahng and John Cookson

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Dog Sledding, December 4-6

Ely, Minnesota

While America’s frosty last frontier and the Canada’s icy Yukon are dog sledding central, there are still great places to answer the call of the wild in the lower 48. Ely, up in Minnesota’s wintry northern stretch between Ontario and Lake Superior, is a dog sledding hub within reach for a great weekend getaway. With January through March being the busy season for dog sledding, this is the perfect time to go for a canine-powered ride across Minnesota’s snow trails. Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge offers three-night packages starting at $775 per person that include lodging, meals, and everything you’ll need for a mush, including an expert guide to show you the trails. Skiing and snowshoeing are also available nearby. White Wilderness, White Wolf, and Chilly Dogs offer comparable packages. One weekend won’t prepare you for the Iditarod, but it will sell you on this exhilirating way to explore the winter landscape.

Travel and Accommodation

Fly into Duluth International Airport from which Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge runs a shuttle to Ely. Once there, use the included lodge and adjoining cabins as your base.

Art Basel, December 3-6

Miami, Florida

Escape the cold this weekend and head to Art Basel in Miami, Florida. Arguably the most important art festival in the United States, it breaks the traditional mold by also showcasing music, film, architecture and design. Even the uninitiated can gain a few tips about art collecting at the Art Basel Conversations, where famous art collectors, museum staff, publishers, and other experts will answer questions.

Many events also pair free food and drink with their exhibitions and lectures, such as the LoweDown Happy Hour at Lowe Art Museum, or the Breakfast at the Bakehouse at Bakehouse Art Complex where you can sip coffee and meet artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts. Other places will offer discounted food prices such as the Urbanite Bistro for the Art Whino Goes Urbanite event.

If you’re not the most sophisticated art guru, there are plenty of legendary Miami parties to attend, such as Le Baron at Florida Room.

And of course, don’t forget you’re in Miami: there are endless opportunities to hit the beaches to remedy that office pallor, or check out the Everglades National Park for some exotic sights. Explore 1.5 million acres of swamp, prairie and jungle by hiking, camping, or canoeing through the waters known as the “river of grass”—just watch out for crocodiles and panthers.

Travel and Accommodation

After landing at Miami International Airport, head to one of these hotels that Art Basel Miami Beach has negotiated for this week with Turon Travel. There are special 3-night packages for places in Miami Beach and Miami with guaranteed lowest rates.

L.A. Auto Show, December 4-13

Los Angeles, California

‘Innovation’ might as well be the theme of the cars featured at this year’s L.A. Auto Show. From high concept cars to future floor room models, from fuel efficiency to dashboard design, the vehicles gathered at the LA Convention Center are cutting-edge. A number of debuts have the auto industry buzzing, including the Honda Personal-Neo Urban Transport and the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept. An afternoon among these autos will prime you to take on the open road. Luckily, U.S. Route 101 stretches out along America’s western flank all the way up to Olympia, Washington.

Travel and Accommodation

Escape the LA sprawl and knotted roadways by camping outside of the city. Here is a map of campsites. For your trek north on the 101, California’s coast is dotted with state parks, many of which offer beachside camping.