Jetsettersblog

Archery pronghorn season opened August 15, and some controlled hunts continue through September 24 – some close earlier and others open later in the fall.

In addition, in many units, archery seasons on mule deer, white-tailed deer and elk open August 30 and run through September.

Check the big game rules brochure for details or visit:

In the warm weather of summer, hunter should consider hunting in the higher country.

Hunters are reminded that archery permits are required. And archers using blinds on federal public lands should consult the big game rules brochure or contact the Bureau of Land Management for the latest policies on hunting blinds on public lands.

For more information and for help with planning hunts, visit the Hunt Planner on the Idaho Fish and Game Website: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntplanner/

The wolf hunting season opens Tuesday, August 30, in Idaho.

Wolf seasons run from August 30 through December 31 in Island Park and Beaverhead wolf management zones, from August 30 through June 30 in the Lolo and Selway zones, and from August 30 through March 31 in the remaining nine of the state’s13 wolf management zones.

Licensed hunters may buy two tags per calendar year. Wolf tags cost $11.50 for resident hunters, and $31.75 for nonresidents. The reduced nonresident tag price is retroactive – hunters who already have bought tags at the higher previous price are eligible for a refund. Details of the refund policy are forthcoming.

Harvest limits are set in five zones – 40 in the Salmon, 60 in the Sawtooth, 25 in the Southern Mountains, 10 in the Beaverhead and 30 in the Island Park zones – to preserve connectivity with populations in other states.

Fish and Game will monitor the hunt daily. The seasons will close when the harvest limit for that zone is reached or the season closing date, whichever comes first.

To find out whether a wolf hunt zone is closed, call 1-855-648-5558, starting August 30.

A wolf trapping season opens November 15 and runs through March 31 in the Panhandle zone, except for units 2 and 3; in the Lolo zone; in the Dworshak-Elk City zone, except Unit 10A; in the Selway zone; and the Middle Fork zone. All other zones are closed to trapping with the option of opening a trapping season in other zones upon commission review in January.

Details of wolf hunting and trapping seasons and rules are available on the Fish and Game website under big game seasons and rules at: http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/public/hunt/rules/?getPage=63,  and they are published in a brochure available at license vendors and Fish and Game offices.

Tips for hunting elk

The popular hunting magazines often display colorful photographs of huge bull elk standing in open meadows presenting easy targets. The reality in the mountains of Colorado, however, is far different.

Stalking these animals is challenging and most hunters won’t get easy shots. You’re more likely to find elk on a steep hillside, in a dark ravine, or in thick timber than standing out in the open.

The hunter success rate for all manners of take in Colorado was 22 percent in 2010, and a total of 48,018 were harvested. A total of 214,535 hunters stalked elk last season. It’s estimated that there are about 280,000 elk in Colorado, the most of any state.

If weather is warm, elk stay spread out over vast areas at high elevations at and above timberline. In those conditions hunters need to work extra hard. When snow falls, elk will usually start to move, bunch up, and look for food sources at lower elevations or on slopes where vegetation is exposed. However, the snow fall must be significant; usually more than a foot of snow must be on the ground to get elk moving.

Hunters must get off their ATVs and hunt slowly and quietly far from any road. Elk are very smart, move quickly at any hint of danger and hide in rugged terrain. Compounding the challenge for hunters is the fact that elk typically gather in groups of 10 or more. If one is spooked they all move and they can run easily for a mile or more.

Elk are most active during the night and are likely to be grazing in transition areas–meadows next to heavy timber, where different types of vegetation meet and just above or below ridgelines. Hunters should watch these areas at first light and at dusk.

During the day, hunters need to move into the dark timber–cool north-facing slopes–and not be hesitant to hunt in difficult areas. Hunters should move as quietly as possible for short distances and then scan the woods for 10 minutes or more before moving again. Even in dense forest it’s a good idea to use binoculars so you can discern subtle movement or unusual colors in the trees.

If you find the areas where animals graze at night it’s likely that you’ll find them in adjacent areas during the day.

When hunting in areas with roads, move far above or far below the roads to find elk. In areas where two roads are in close proximity, locate the most difficult terrain in between.

Line up your shot carefully because elk are difficult to knock down. The best shots are delivered in the critical area of the lungs and heart just behind and below the front quarters. Never try for a head shot, as this can result in only wounding the animal.

To learn more about hunting elk, check out “Elk Hunting University” on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife web site: http://wildlife.state.co.us/Hunting/ElkHuntingUniversity/. This program, started in 2010, gives extensive information regarding all phases of elk hunting.

To learn how to field dress big game, see the video at: http://wildlife.state.co.us/NewsMedia/Videos

WITH ICONIC WINTER ADVENTURES

Winter in the American Rockies is majestic and thrilling and Dunton Hot Springs, the 19th-century ghost-town-turned-luxe-resort in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is offering tailor made activities for guests searching for fresh powder, climbing ice or soothing outdoor – and indoor – natural hot springs.

Guided by Dunton Hot Springs’ renowned outdoorswoman and mountaineer BoJo Post, most of the activities offered at the resort showcase the town’s mining history, naturally sulphur-free hot springs and pristine alpine setting.

Dunton Hot Springs’ Winter Adventure Menu:

- Hot Springs Soaking

Dunton’s hot springs

Three soaking options. The source of the hot spring, where the water is hottest, the renovated original bathhouse or one of the outdoor pools. Guests staying in Well House cabin have access to their own indoor, on-demand hot spring.

- Dog Sledding
Guests are whisked through the alpine forest by a powerful dog team and may even have the opportunity to drive the sled!

- Ice Climbing
Unique in the San Juan Mountains, ice climbing is done on-site at Dunton’s own waterfall using ice axes, crampons, helmets and harnesses.

- Heli-skiing

Heli-skiing at Dunton

Guests ski at 10,000 to 14,000 feet – some of the highest elevations in North America – in up to six runs daily. Full professional ski guide service and avalanche transceiver and safety orientation are included. Guests are picked up from and returned to Dunton by helicopter.

- Snowmobiling
From groomed trails for beginners to aggressive backcountry trips for experienced riders, a variety of tours are available throughout the winter season.

- Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding
Dunton’s Backcountry Ski Excursions give skiers and snowboarders of all abilities a chance to experience unspoiled and untracked powder.

- Avalanche Education

World-class avalanche instruction is offered at various levels to visitors of all ages and abilities. Classes are taught by some of the country’s finest avalanche forecasters, professional ski patrollers and snow science experts.

Ice climbing Dunton’s waterfall

- Snowshoeing
“User-friendly” two- and three-hour guided jaunts take guests to Colorado’s only active geyser and various jaw-dropping viewing points.

- Cross-country Skiing
Groomed trails lead up the West Fork of the Dolores River to untouched alpine meadows. Animal tracks and wildlife can be easily observed.

- Sand Canyon Hike and Winter Tour
BoJo takes guests into Colorado’s desert terrain and Sand Canyon for a full-day hike to the sculpted monoliths of McElmo Canyon and Sand Canyon Trail in the Canyons of the Ancients. The hike includes a packed lunch and a vineyard tour and tasting at Sutcliffe Winery, conveniently located just minutes away from the Sand Canyon trail head.

For more information on Dunton Hot Springs, visit www.duntonhotsprings.com.

ABOUT DUNTON HOT SPRINGS:

Opened in 2001, Dunton Hot Springs resort is a restored ghost town set in an extraordinary alpine valley. The town’s original 19th-century “Wild West” log cabins have been transformed into 12 romantic and luxurious accommodations.

Its spa is fed by natural mineral hot springs that have been curing body and soul for centuries, ideal for de-stressing from the myriad activities available to guests. And the town’s old saloon is now a world-class restaurant serving organic fare paired with award-winning wines produced by the resort’s own Sutcliffe Vineyards.

BRANSON, Mo. — Branson Creek Golf Club and The Clarion Hotel in Branson are proud to announce a stay-and-play package for 2011.

This is a great opportunity to stay at a wonderful hotel right in the heart of the acclaimed Branson Strip, as well as play the beautiful Branson Creek Golf Club starting from $115.98.

Managed by Troon Golf, Branson Creek Golf Club has been rated #1 by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest as the “Top Public Courses In Missouri” for eleven consecutive years (2000-2010).

In its May 2009 issue, Golf Digest named Branson Creek Golf Club #93 on its list of the “Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in America.”

In 2010 Golf Magazine named Branson Creek Golf Club #82 on its list of the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play in America.” Branson Creek Golf Club is also holds a 4.5 out of a 5 star rating by Golf Digest.

With those awards to its credit, Branson Creek Golf Club is considered by many as the centerpiece for golf in the Midwest.

The facility plays host to any number of corporate outings and golf groups from around the country throughout the year.

Branson Creek was designed by golf course architect Tom Fazio and features a challenging Par 71 championship layout, with 5 sets of tees, etched into the beautiful Ozarks landscape with a view second to none.

For more information, http://www.bransoncreekgolf.com/

The 7th Annual Sean Eduardo Sanchez fundraising Pro-Am will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2011 beginning at 1:00 p.m., at Rancho Valencia, an Auberge Resort

RANCHO SANTA FE, CA– The 7th Annual Sean Eduardo Sanchez (SES) fundraising Pro-Am will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2011 beginning at 1:00 p.m., at Rancho Valencia, an Auberge Resort, located at 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, California.

Proceeds will provide the children of Tecate, Mexico, with access to free tennis lessons, tennis equipment and academic scholarships and support the efforts of the Empty Cradle, a San Diego non-profit organization that helps parents cope with the loss of an infant before, during or after birth.

There are currently 500 children enrolled in free tennis lessons at the SES Tennis Center, which has grown to include four regulation-size tennis courts.

Sponsors of the Pro-Am as of this printing include: Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa; Geyser Holdings; Gerald Parsky; San Diego Self Storage; Donald R. Shepherd; Jamie and Tony Carr; Coffee Ambassador; Carruth Cellars; Hanson Surfboards; Schubach Aviation; Wilson Sporting Goods; Claire’s on Cedros Bakery and Cafe; Martina Hingis; Sam Querrey; Dunlop Sports and San Diego Charger’s Quentin Jammer and Steve Gregory.

Returning this year to compete for the championship is former number one U.S. doubles tennis champion Rick Leach.

A highlight of the two-day event is a Sponsor Party on the evening of Friday, September 16, 2011, that will be hosted by Jamie and Tony Carr at their private residence in Rancho Santa Fe. The Sponsor Party includes a buffet dinner, silent auction and entertainment.

Reservations may be purchased for $75 per person to attend the Sponsor Party on September 16th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Pro-Am reservations are $75 per person.

The tennis tournament at Rancho Valencia on September 17th from 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. includes a barbeque and trophy presentation.

A combined price of $125.00 is available to attend both events.

Eduardo Sanchez, Head Tennis Pro at Rancho Valencia was born and raised in the city of Tecate, Mexico and accomplished a life-long dream to construct public tennis courts for use by all the citizens of Tecate, regardless of their ability to pay for instruction. He dedicated the project on June 4, 2004, in honor of his deceased son, Sean Eduardo.

For further information regarding the non-profit SES Tennis Center, or to purchase reservations to attend the events, please call (858) 832-8297, visit sestenniscenter.org  or email sesproam@gmail.com.

Details on the additional beneficiary, Empty Cradle, may be located at http://www.emptycradle.org

The Hot Deal

ALOHA airfare! Bicycle Adventures’ FREE FLIGHT HULA:
All October & November 2011 Hawaii Tours
Offer good through September 30, 2011
Book your trip and get two for one airfare.
Don’t wait – this is a limited-time offer.

Make Your Choice

Book your 2011 Oct or Nov Hawaii trip by Sept 30

Flights must originate within continental U.S. or Canada

Based on coach fare and availability of airfares

Some restrictions may apply

Flight dates must be within 1 week pre- or post-tour.
Must book with our specified travel agent for discount
Cannot be used with other promotions or discounts

Got questions? Call us for more information at 800-443-6060.

12 Days in Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls
From $4,695 per person
www.africantravelinc.com/cp-tours/southern-explorer-2011/

Travel in November on our most popular journey
“Southern Explorer” and receive these added values:

Deluxe Level:
Two Additional Nights (1 Cape Town, 1 Kruger)

Luxury Level 1:
Dinner aboard the Royal Livingstone Express Luxury Steam Train (Victoria Falls)

Luxury Level 2:
Dinner at Azure Restaurant and a 60-Minute Rasul Spa Treatment (Cape Town)

Call your local Travel Professional or speak with one of our Safari Specialists at
(877) 493-2727

Valid for new travel November 01 – November 30, 2011. Not combinable with any other promotions. Subject to availabilty.

Click here to explore our additional SPECIALS!
www.africantravelinc.com/specials/african-safari-specials/

NAPLES, FL – If you are interested in taking a vacation this fall, you should consider heading to The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club in Southwest Florida

. Set on 125 lush acres, complemented by seven miles of pristine white sandy beach, the resort features 317 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, a newly enhanced championship golf course, a $5 million all-new beachfront pool complex (with two new pools), a world-class spa, an award-winning tennis center, a complete fitness center (with complimentary admission for guests), and multiple restaurants and bars.

In addition, the Gulf-front resort is just blocks from Naples’ renowned shopping districts of 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South.

Want more reason to visit? The resort is offering the 4th night free from October 1 – December 20, 2011, based on availability. For more information or for reservations, call (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222 and ask for the “4th Night Free Promotion.”

Blackout dates may apply, and the promotion may not be combined with any other offer. Also, the promotion is not applicable to groups.

“Fall is the perfect time to visit Naples for a relaxing getaway,” said Jason Parsons, general manager of the family-owned resort. “The weather is great, and it is just beautiful here. So whether you wish to golf on the newly renovated golf course, relax on the beach, lounge by our two beautiful new pools, visit The Spa, or shop at Naples’ famous shopping districts, you just can’t beat the offerings or incredible setting of The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. The ‘4th Night Free’ offer simply provides even more incentive to visit.”

Continually enhancing its already-impressive offerings, the resort completed a $22 million renovation in 2010. The multi-phase project included the renovation of guest rooms and suites, and the addition of the new pool complex.

Additionally, in August 2011 the resort completed enhancements to its 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course, which now boasts new grass on all of the fairways.

This follows the enhancements to the course in the summer of 2010 which included new grass on 12 of the greens, and on all 18 tee boxes, and new bridges over some of the course’s water features.

Newly remodeled accommodations now feature cool tropical color linens, fabrics and carpeting; flat-panel televisions; patio or balcony (with a view of the Gulf, golf course or the lush resort interior); coffee maker; and refrigerator.

The new beachfront pool complex features: two pools, two whirlpools, the open-air Poolside bar and grille, restrooms, and locker facilities, as well as a pool/recreational shop.

Picturesque tall palms encircle the complex, which is further complemented by direct beach access.

Owned and operated by the Watkins family for 65 years, the resort features: 1,000 feet of pristine white-sand beach; the world-class Spa; the Fitness Center; the Mary C. Watkins Tennis Center with six Har-Tru courts; Beach Klub 4 Kids, a recreational program for children ages five to 12; an Orchid House, home to over 3,000 tropical plants; 34,000 square feet of indoor meeting and event space; and many beautiful outdoor venues.

Guests also can take advantage of great restaurants, including the signature beachfront HB’s on the Gulf, and the Seminole Store that serves deli sandwiches, ice cream, gourmet coffees and a variety of freshly baked pizza, pastries and desserts in a café atmosphere.

In addition to its location just blocks from fashionable 5th Avenue South and historic 3rd Street South, the resort is within minutes of shopping at Venetian Village, Waterside Shops, Bayfront and Tin City.

Guests can experience the area by taking tours of the Everglades, Caribbean Gardens, Corkscrew Swamp, The Botanical Gardens, or the Conservancy Nature Center. Boat and fishing trips also can be arranged at the hotel. Other leisure time activities can include Naples’ outstanding museums, theatres, and art galleries.

Providing a comfortable, friendly atmosphere with impeccable service and first-class amenities, the resort is an exceptional tropical getaway.

Resort guests benefit from no resort fees, and complimentary self and valet parking,

Contact the resort at (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222, or visit

www.NaplesBeachHotel.com

There’s still time to enjoy some late Summer fun at Hotel Aurelio, Lech

The beautiful resort of Lech located in the Austrian Arlberg region is home to the stunning Hotel Aurelio and until 25th September 2011 guests staying at this exclusive boutique hotel can take advantage of summer activities on offer including Llama Trekking & Heli-golfing!

Stay in one of Hotel Aurelio’s luxurious 19 rooms and suites, pamper yourself at the Spa, indulge at the hotel’s exclusive restaurant ‘Aurelio’s’, soak up the sun on the beautiful sun terrace or perhaps take advantage of the many activities on offer.

Llama Trekking – Explore the 350km of hiking trails in the beautiful Lech mountain region throughout September in very special company.

On request, Hotel Aurelio will organise trekking tours with your very own woolly hiking buddy, a gentle, sure-footed llama! The animals are led by the guests and will carry everything needed for an exclusive picnic in the middle of the mountains.

The hiking pace is set by the llamas – but not to worry, they walk at a leisurely pace allowing for guests to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

Guests are able to choose between a 3 hour (perfect for families and those new to trekking) and a 5 hour hike with the llamas that will take you through alpine meadows in full bloom and past wild waterfalls.

Experienced hikers might prefer the 7 hour hike from Oberlech (1,750m) to the emerald green Lake Butzensee (2,120m). Your woolly companion will remain at your side at all times, as will your private mountain guide.

Prices start from €175/£153 per person for groups of 3, or €120/£105 per person for groups of 6.

Heli Golfing – Does golfing get any more exclusive than this?! Hotel Aurelio will transport its guests way beyond the Alps via helicopter to the region’s most beautiful golf courses.

Hotel Aurelio offers heli-golfing trips to the golf courses of Kitzbuehel, Igls, Lindau Bad Schachen and Weissensberg at Lake Constance (the helicopter is able to transport up to three people together with all their golf equipment).

In the evening guests can head to Hotel Aurelio’s beautiful Spa for some R&R before refuelling at ‘Aurelio’s’ the hotels elegant restaurant.

Other Sporting/Activity Highlights – Hotel Aurelio offers additional activities including yoga, mountain biking tours, fly fishing, canyoning and mountain climbing – the perfect way to enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery.

Rates – Lead in nightly rates at Hotel Aurelio, Lech start from £242 per person (until 25th September 2011) based on 2 adults sharing. Price includes accommodation on a half board basis and use of underground parking.

For reservations visit www.aureliolech.com  or call +43 5583 2214.