Ken Vettraino's path to a trophy mule deer began in late-October darkness at a ranch house in Elbert County. After a quick bite and a cup of coffee, he was off to explore his brother-in-law's ranch near Elizabeth.  

In a move to boost participation in small game hunting, the Colorado Wildlife Commission voted to abolish the $20 fee to participate in the Walk-In Access program, beginning in 2010. The notion is to encourage hunters, particularly youth, to participate in the pursuit of doves, pheasants and rabbits — viewed as gateway species to promote involvement in outdoor sports.  

Trent Nelson

Don't want to bother with lift lines? Then consider Nordic skiing at one of many Utah venues that cater to this aerobic sport. Here's a list of places to participate in classic or skate style cross-country skiing.   Full Story

Tribune file photo

Utah can't prove its boast of having "the greatest snow on Earth," but weather scientists, powder hounds and tourism officials can make the argument that most winters, the quantity and quality of the state's snow match any place in the world.   Full Story