Go as a River — Shelley Read

Set in mid-century Colorado, Go as a River follows Victoria Nash, a young woman whose life is shaped by love, loss and the changing landscape around her. After tragedy alters her family and her future, Victoria must find her own way forward, drawing strength from the land and from within herself. Shelley Read’s writing is quiet and powerful, rooted deeply in place and filled with emotion that unfolds slowly. It’s a story about resilience, belonging and the ways we learn to survive what we never expected.

Fourth Wing (and the whole series) by Rebecca Yarros

Set in a brutal military academy where students bond with dragons or risk death, Fourth Wing follows Violet Sorrengail, who is pushed into a world she was never meant to survive. What starts as a fight for survival becomes a story of courage, loyalty, love and self-discovery. Rebecca Yarros creates a fast-moving, immersive world that’s impossible to leave once you start. It’s thrilling, emotional and perfect for readers who want to be completely swept away on a cold mountain night.

The Last Midwife by Sandra Dallas

This novel centers on Gracy Brookens, the only midwife in a small Colorado mining town in the early 1900s. Trusted by nearly every family, Gracy finds her world shaken when she’s accused of a crime that threatens her freedom and her reputation. As the story unfolds, Sandra Dallas explores themes of loyalty, justice and what it means to stand alone in a close-knit community. The setting feels authentic and grounded, and the story honors the quiet strength of women who held families together in difficult times.

Book Club Favorites

Wild by Cheryl Strayeds

In this raw and deeply personal memoir, Cheryl Strayed recounts her solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail after experiencing profound loss and heartbreak. With no prior backpacking experience, she sets out to rebuild herself step by step. The story is honest, messy and inspiring, filled with moments of fear, humor and clarity. Wild is about grief, healing and the quiet power of putting one foot in front of the other, even when the path feels impossible.

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

A survival story that has stood the test of time, Hatchet follows thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson after a plane crash leaves him stranded in the Canadian wilderness. Armed with only a hatchet, Brian must learn how to survive by observing and respecting the natural world. The book is straightforward yet profound, showing how resilience, patience and adaptability can emerge under pressure. It’s a favorite for readers of all ages and feels especially fitting in a mountain setting.

The Mountain Between Us by Charles Martin

After surviving a plane crash in a remote wilderness, two strangers must rely on each other to survive the harsh terrain and find their way back to civilization. As they battle injury, weather, and isolation a deep bond forms between them. Charles Martin blends survival, romance and emotional depth into a story that explores trust, hope and the human instinct to endure. It’s gripping without being overwhelming and perfect for readers who enjoy adventure with heart.

Mean Streak by Sandra Brown

This fast-paced thriller follows a woman training for a marathon who vanishes during a run in a remote mountain area. Injured and disoriented, she wakes to find herself in the care of a mysterious man who may be her only chance at survival. Twists unfold quickly as secrets surface and trust is tested. Mean Streak is suspenseful, atmospheric, and ideal for readers who love a book that keeps them turning pages late into the night.

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

Set in the rugged wilderness of Alaska, this novel follows a family seeking a fresh start off the grid. As they face isolation, extreme weather and their own inner struggles, the story explores love, survival and the resilience required to endure long winters and difficult truths. Kristin Hannah captures both the beauty and brutality of wild places, creating a story that is emotional, immersive and unforgettable.

The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel

Inspired by true events, this novel tells the story of a young woman raised in the forest after being kidnapped as a child. During World War II, she used her survival skills to help Jewish refugees hide from the occupying forces. The book blends history, nature, and humanity into a moving narrative about courage, compassion and the strength found in unlikely places. It’s haunting, hopeful, and beautifully written.

God of the Woods by Liz Moore

Set at a summer camp in the Adirondacks, this literary mystery begins with the disappearance of a young girl and slowly unravels layers of family secrets, class tension and unresolved grief. The forest itself feels like a character, holding stories and truths beneath its surface. Thoughtful and atmospheric, this book rewards slow reading and is perfect for a quiet afternoon at the cabin.

These stories have been passed around Audrey’s book club, read at different stages of life and discussed long after the last page. They remind us that books have a way of grounding us, challenging us and bringing us closer together.

If you’re looking for your next great read, start here. Or better yet, plan a Book Club Getaway at Rabbit Ears Basecamp. Bring your favorite people, a stack of books and plenty of time. Read by the fire, talk late into the night and wake up to mountain quiet and hot coffee.

Stories are better when they’re shared. Come stay wild with us, and don’t forget your book.

You’ll need

• 8–12 eggs (about 2 per person)
• Half & half or milk
• Salt and pepper
• Breakfast meat (bacon or sausage)
• Veggies (spinach, bell peppers, onions, or whatever’s on hand)
• Shredded cheese

How to make it

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cook the breakfast meat (if needed) in an oven-safe skillet.
3. Add hard veggies like onions or peppers and sauté until softened.
4. Mix eggs with milk, salt, pepper, and any soft veggies like spinach.
5. Pour over the meat and veggies, cook for about 5 minutes until the bottom sets.
6. Top with cheese and move the skillet to the oven.
7. Bake for 5–10 minutes until the top is set.

Slide out, slice into wedges and serve!

How to make it

1. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
2. Add turkey and all spices, cooking until browned.
3. Transfer everything to a crockpot, stir, and cover with broth.
4. Cook on high for 4–5 hours or low for 6–8 hours.

Serve with cheese, green onions, sour cream, or crushed Fritos.

Basecamp Tip

Start it in the morning, then go explore. Dinner will be waiting when you get back.

Audrey’s Best Bolognese

A rich, slow-cooked sauce that warms you from the inside out. This one fills the cabin with that “something’s cooking” smell all afternoon.

You’ll need

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 lb hamburger
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1.5 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup beef broth

How to make it

1. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil for 5–10 minutes, then add to crockpot.
2. Cook hamburger and sausage until browned. Drain and add to the crockpot.
3. Stir in tomato paste and spices. Blend well.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, milk, and broth.
5. Cook on low 6–8 hours to let the flavors meld.

Serve over your favorite pasta with parmesan cheese.

Cabin tip

This sauce freezes beautifully. Make it before you come and defrost for an even easier meal!

Ginny’s Basecamp Crunch

Equal parts comfort food and fun, this recipe is easy, and perfect for feeding a hungry crew.

You’ll need

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large onion
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 3 cups tomato paste
• Bags of Doritos
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 4 tbsp sugar
• Oregano, cumin, and salt to taste
• Water as needed
• Toppings: Lettuce, green peppers, cheddar cheese, sour cream, onions

How to make it

1. Brown beef with onion, drain excess fat.
2. Add tomato sauce, paste, sugar, and spices. Simmer briefly.
3. Cook in a crockpot on low for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve over Doritos and top with your favorite toppings!

Basecamp Tip

For fun, serve it straight in individual Dorito bags. The kids will love it and it makes cleanup easy!

Grandpa’s Beanut Puster Ice Cream Cake

Part ice cream cake, part fudge sundae, and always a hit after a big day outside.

You’ll need

• 22 Oreo cookies, crushed
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream, softened
• 1/2 stick butter, melted
• 1/4 cup cocoa
• 1 cup sugar
• Splash of milk
• Lightly salted peanuts

How to make it

• Mix crushed Oreos with melted butter and press into a 9×13 dish. Freeze until firm.
• Spread softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the crust. Return to the freezer until solid.
• In a saucepan, combine butter, cocoa, sugar, and a splash of milk. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• Pour the cooled fudge sauce over the ice cream layer and sprinkle with peanuts.
• Return to the freezer until set. Remove 10–15 minutes before serving to make slicing easier.

Basecamp Tip:

Make it the night before so dessert is ready whenever the craving hits. It’s a great mountain birthday cake too!

Everyone’s Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies

Warm, chewy and impossible to stop at one!

You’ll need

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 cups biscuit baking mix
• 1 tsp vanilla
• Sugar for coating

How to make it

1. Mix everything together until smooth.
2. Roll dough into 1.5 inch balls, roll in sugar and place on a cookie sheet.
3. Bake at 375°F for 6–8 minutes.

Basecamp Tip

Make more than you think! Since there are no eggs, this dough gets eaten by bystanders before it’s baked.

Here’s to good food, good company, and wild adventures waiting just beyond your cabin door. From our family to yours…come hungry, leave happy and stay wild!

What are your favorite simple recipes for the mountains?

What You’ll Find in the Field

These GMUs support healthy herds of:

• Elk: Common across all units. 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons are the most popular and often available over the counter (OTC) for certain bull elk licenses.
• Mule Deer: Found throughout the area but draw only. Tags are limited, so plan early.
• Black Bear: Some units around Rabbit Ears offer add-on bear tags that overlap elk and deer seasons. Check the CPW Big Game brochure for exact units and dates before hunting.
• Moose: Occasionally seen in lowland willow areas, but licenses are very limited and issued by draw only.

Understanding Colorado Licenses

Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) manages all hunting permits by GMU, species, and season.

• Elk: Some OTC rifle options remain for 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons in certain nearby units. Archery elk is now draw-only for nonresidents.
• Deer: Mule deer tags are limited draw only, with most applications due in April for the primary draw.
• Bear: OTC and add-on tags are available for select GMUs during overlapping big game seasons.
• Moose: Draw-only with very low tag numbers.

Colorado also offers a secondary draw in June for leftover limited licenses and OTC options later in summer.

Typical Season Dates (2025 Reference)

Always confirm official dates and hunt codes through CPW each year.

Weather, Terrain, and Access

• Weather: Fall can swing fast between sunny afternoons and freezing mornings. Snow is common by November.
• Terrain: Expect a mix of pine forest, sage flats, and high ridges between 8,000 and 10,000 feet.
• Access: Public lands are plentiful but mixed with private parcels. Download offline maps and respect property boundaries.
• Safety: Hunters using rifles must wear at least 500 square inches of fluorescent orange or pink above the waist plus an orange or pink hat.

Tips from the Locals

• Scout early if you can. Elk move often once the pressure builds.
• Dress in layers and always carry rain protection.
• Break in your boots before the trip.
• Keep game bags handy for quick pack-outs in warm weather.
• Start your mornings early and glass clearings at first light.

After the Hunt

At the end of a long day, Rabbit Ears Basecamp is a welcome sight. Fire up the hot tub at the Hitchin’ Post, hang your gear to dry, and swap stories with your crew over a hot meal.

Whether you’re chasing elk in Unit 181 or glassing for deer in 17, Basecamp puts you close to it all , with a warm bed waiting when you return.

Book your stay at Rabbit Ears Basecamp, your base for adventure in Colorado’s high country!

Quick Reference: Hunting Access by GMU

Quick Tips for Fall Packing in the Rockies

• Wool and synthetic fabrics beat cotton every time.
• Always bring one more layer than you think you will need.
• If you are visiting later in the season, check the forecast for snow and plan ahead.
• Choose pieces that mix and match easily.

Fall in the Rockies is a mix of sun, frost, rain and snow. September glows with aspen gold, October feels crisp and quiet and any month can surprise you with fresh snow. With the right gear in your bag, you will be ready for anything! Pack smart, stay cozy, and come stay wild with us at Rabbit Ears Basecamp.

The Spirit of Basecamp

Our vision for Basecamp is simple. When you arrive, you feel at home. We have tried to think through the small details so you can drop your bags, take a breath and settle in. At the same time, we hope Basecamp sparks curiosity. The mountains outside your door are calling and we want every guest to leave with a story of their own adventure.

Unlike a resort or a cluster of vacation rentals, this is a small, family-run collection of stays. You will find quiet, you will find connection and you will find a location that is perfectly placed for exploring. Close to everything, yet far from the crowds.

How to Enjoy It All

Leaf peeping is about slowing down and noticing the little things. Here are a few ways to make the most of it:

• Bring layers. Mornings can be frosty, afternoons sunny.
• Pack a picnic or snacks for roadside stops.
• Take your time. The best moments often come from a random turnoff or a quiet trail.
• Snap photos, but also put your camera away. Let yourself hear the crunch of leaves and the rush of the wind.

Why Stay at Basecamp in Fall

Leaf season is fleeting, which makes it all the more special. At Rabbit Ears Basecamp, you are surrounded by aspen-covered hills and minutes from some of the best drives and hikes in the state. Spend the day wandering through glowing groves, then return to a cozy cabin, a warm meal and quiet under the stars.

What sets Basecamp apart is the balance. You are close enough to Steamboat to enjoy dinner out or a stroll through town, but far enough away to feel the peace of the mountains. No big crowds, no busy resort feel. Just family-run cabins, thoughtful details and aspens glowing outside your door.

Fall in the Rockies comes and goes quickly, which makes every golden day feel like a gift. So pack your layers, grab your camera and come watch the mountains change. Then come home to Rabbit Ears Basecamp and stay wild!

1. OktoberWest Beer Weekend (Sept 5–6)

Friday kicks off with a Beer Stroll through downtown bars and restaurants. Saturday brings a beer garden at the base area with craft brews, a beef cook-off, stein-holding contests, live music, and a kid zone. It is Steamboat’s official toast to fall.

2. First Friday Artwalk (Sept 5)

Wander downtown galleries, boutiques, and creative pop-ups from 5–8 pm.
The Artwalk happens year-round, if you can’t make it in September!

3. Steamboat Farmers Market (Saturdays through Sept 20)

Yampa Street comes alive every Saturday with farm produce, baked goods, flowers, crafts, and live music. Grab a coffee, wander with a pastry, and let the mountain morning unfold.

4. Run Rabbit Run Ultras (Sept 12–13)

One of Colorado’s most iconic trail races. The 100-mile starts on Friday, the 50-mile on Saturday, with courses climbing Mount Werner and Rabbit Ears Mountain. Even as a spectator, it is inspiring to cheer these athletes on.

5. First Annual Zucchini Classic (Sept 13)

Yes, zucchinis on wheels. Locals decorate giant squash, strap them to derby bases, and race them down a track. It promises to be as silly and spirited as it sounds!

6. Tennis Ball Drop – Down the Ski Jump (Sept 20)

Part of the Fast & The Furriest 5K9 Doggie Run & Walk at Howelsen Hill. Buy a numbered tennis ball, watch them tumble down the 60-meter ski jump, and see if your ball lands first. Proceeds benefit the Routt Humane Society.

7. Sunset Happy Hour at Thunderhead (Sept 21 & 28)

Ride the gondola up for golden-hour views over the valley. Add live music, a drink in hand, and mountain air that cools just as the sky starts to glow.

8. Steamboat Symphony: And A River Runs Through It (Sept 26)

The Symphony Orchestra returns to Strings Pavilion with a program inspired by rivers — fitting for a town shaped by one. It’s a thoughtful, powerful way to welcome fall.

9. Steamboat Bike Park Whip Off (Sept 27)

Riders launch off the Buckin’ Bronc jump in this jam-style biking competition. Expect tricks, big air, and even bigger cheers from the crowd.

10. Emerald Mountain Trail Run (Sept 27)

The last race of the Steamboat Springs Running Series. Choose the 12k or 4-mile course and run (or cheer) through changing leaves and wide-open views.

11. Downtown Chili Challenge (Sept 27)

Local cooks bring the heat to this downtown showdown. Taste your way through pots of red, green, and creative chili recipes until you find your favorite.

12. Yampatika Fall Festival (Sept 28)

Torian Plum Plaza turns into a pumpkin patch and play zone with crafts, scavenger hunts, and bingo. A perfect family outing to wrap up the month.

Local Tips

• Double up your days. Pair the Artwalk with the Beer Stroll or the Farmers Market with the Zucchini Classic.
• Bring layers. September evenings cool quickly once the sun dips.
• Carry cash. Some vendors and food stalls still prefer it.
• Don’t rush. September is a season for lingering.

Quick Tips for Late-Summer Fun

• Reserve UTVs, boats, or horses ahead of time. Weekends still get busy.
• Dress in layers. Afternoons are warm, and evenings can turn chilly fast.
• Pack plenty of water and snacks. Adventures are better fueled.
• Bring a camera. The light this time of year is pure magic.

Late summer at Basecamp is all about balance. A little dust on your boots, a little sunshine on the water, and a quiet cabin to come home to when it’s all done. These days go fast, so soak up every minute. Adventure starts where you stay wild.