Mountain Almanac for the Week of February 24

Tuesday, Feb. 24

Yoga. Community yoga classes are scheduled at the Church in the Wildwood on Tuesday and Thursday at 9 a.m. and another class is slated for Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m.  For more information, call 719-213-0848.

The Green Mountain Planning Commission will hold a meeting on Feb. 24 at 6: 30 p.m. at the GMF Town Hall. This is meeting was rescheduled from a previous session, originally slated for earlier in February.

Wednesday, Feb. 25

Wellness Walk. Scheduled for Feb. 25 at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center at 9 a.m. Meet at the upper level and choose a one, two or three-mile hike. Maps are available. Healthy living tips and mindfulness exercises are available to enhance your walk. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. Free admission.

Thursday, Feb. 26

TOPS. Takes Off Pound Sensibly. Meets every Thursday morning at 10 a.m. in the Church in the Wildwood (10585 Ute Pass Ave.) Green Mountain Falls, Co 80819. Affordable, effective weight-loss. However, the TOPS class will not be meeting on Christmas Day.

The Woodland Park Planning Commission will meet on Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m. in the WP Council Chambers, located next to city hall.

Friday, Feb. 27

Explore Ice Castles in Cripple Creek.  Yes, this iconic attraction is now ready for viewing for the 2026 season, and approaching the peak of the season.  It is touted as “World of Ice and Light.” Since 2011, Ice Castles has dedicated itself to creating an experience that lasts long after the ice melts. Step through icicle-adorned archways and into a wonderland of towering castles, twinkling tunnels, and magical ice sculptures. Visitors leave with lasting memories of joy and inspiration. Due to a barrage of balmy weather in December, one of the warmest December months on record, the attraction had to delay its opening until Jan. 10 for the season.  It  will continue through early March. The response to the 2026 Ice Castles has been amazing, especially with its new fire display. This will be the third season this attraction has been held in Cripple Creek.  Tickets are now available, so don’t delay making plans to see the Ice Castles. Visit the city’s tourism website for more details.

 

Upcoming

Hit the Ice. Ice Rink Opening at Meadow Wood Sports Complex! Great news! The outdoor ice rink at Meadow Wood Sports Complex is OPEN and ready for skaters! We’re excited to welcome everyone back out to the ice as conditions have improved. The Meadow Wood Ice Rink schedule is LIVE and subject to change based on weather and ice conditions. Before heading out, we encourage you to check the schedule for open skate, open hockey, or any reserved times. You can view the LIVE schedule anytime by scanning the QR code posted at the rink on the city’s website.

Take a Hike.  The New Year is a prime opportunity to partake in a kick-off of scheduled New Year hikes at Mueller State Park. Typically, improving your health is one of the most coveted New Year resolutions. Nothing can allow folks to reach this goal in the Teller high country then hitting nearby trails. Mueller State Park offers regular weekend treks, which also offer a little information on the park’s wildlife attributes. Visit the park’s website of call them at 719-687-2366 for more details.

Best Of 2026 Voting. TMJ’s annual Best Of contest, one of the most competitive and longest-running in the region, has begun.  See related story in this week’s issue.  You can participate and start voting for your favorites in nearly 100 categories, including top casinos, restaurants, entertainment, recreation options, burger and steak dishes, seafood delights, margaritas, premiere personalities and politicians and public servants, and much more.  This one serves as the real Bragging Rights showdown in the area. Visit www.facebook.com/mountainjackpotnews to cast your tally, or just scan the QR code, available at every weekly issue of TMJ.

Log into Facebook

Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

STR Meetings.  The Teller County Commissioners are holding a variety of open meetings on the area’s short-term rental (STR) situation, and what type of rules and permits should be permitted. Check with the county’s government website for details.

Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce Gala. Join us for our “Annual Gala”.  An exciting and memorable evening to celebrate & recognize our Chamber Members on Friday, March 6, at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort, 3225 Broadmoor Valley Rd., Colorado Springs, Co 80906.    A date definitely to be reserved on your calendar and an event not to be missed. Embark on a tropical journey of collaboration, growth, and celebration as we honor the businesses and leaders shaping our shared success. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. To make reservations, visit the chamber’s website or call Chamber President, Debbie Miller at 719-687-9885

Pearl’s Follies.  Scheduled for March 7.  This is a fund-raiser for the Old Homestead House Museum, featuring a variety of entertainment.  For more information, visit the city’s tourism website.

Candidates Forum. This event is FREE!  We encourage the electorate to come and hear from the Candidates who are vying for Mayor and Council for the City of Woodland Park.  Know their platform before you CAST your ballot. The candidates forum is scheduled for March 10 at the WP Council Chambers from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The forum is being co-moderated by Steve Woolf and Carrol Harvey

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festivities. The 7th Annual Woodland Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026, starting at noon in downtown Woodland Park. Hosted by Mountain Eire Irish Dance School, the parade starts near Memorial Park and extends to the old Gateway Elementary.  Another big St. Patty’s Day Parade will be held the same day in Colorado Springs. And an entire week of St. Patty festivities occur in Divide, sponsored by McGinty’s Wood Oven Pub.

Ute Pass Kiwanis Tiki Time Bingo. Scheduled for March 19 at the Ute Pass Cultural Center, starting at 6:30 p.m. It is time for a little island vacation! Break out your island wear and join us for some fun! $20 gives you 10 chances to win! All proceeds benefit the children of Teller County. The Rollong Gourmet Food Truck will have food for sale and the bar will be open. For more information, call 719-642-8679.