A visit to the Ice Castles

A visit to the Ice Castles

This week I had the chance to go back to the Ice Castles in Silverthorne, CO for the second time this season.  I was so thrilled the first time I went, I couldn’t resist this opportunity.  It was just as amazing as I remembered.  The weather was definitely a bit chillier, so I bundled up more.  Not sure they were that much taller, but certainly much more filled in.  There was a slight snow fall the night before and you could see the snow cover on some of the ice.  If you plan to go, make sure to dress warmly in layers!  Also, don’t worry about the ice on the ground.  They do a great job breaking up the little ice chunks and it is quite easy to walk around.  If you’re nervous, they have ski poles you can borrow to help keep your balance.  The team is really nice and will answer any questions you have about the creation of the castles.  You can almost always find a worker around. Sunset at Ice Castles I really enjoyed the contrast with the clouds and blue sky.  Depending on your angle, you got the clouds with slight sun breaking through or beautiful blue sky.  After a few hours during the day time, I came back in the late afternoon to shoot the sunset.  Most definitely the best time of day to visit, if you can only choose one.  The sunset is different every night and I saw a big change from my last trip here in December. Superman This time the sky was pure blue with a hint of pink on the horizon for a very short window of time.  I was hoping for a more dramatic sunset with the clouds.  Nonetheless, it was still beautiful.  Of course, around sunset the lights frozen beneath the ice come on and make the ice glow. I just love this effect. DSC_0322 I also had the fun of superman visiting the ice castles!  Yes, that’s right a worker at the Ice Castles modeled a superman costume that our photo group brought up.  The ice reminded the group of Superman’s Fortress of Solitude, so the costume made for some great shots.  It was fun snapping some shots of superman and the other guests really had fun seeing him too.  The kids were thrilled to find superman!  I’d say an added bonus to all who visited during his modeling that day! Overall, a great day was had and I really enjoy visiting the Ice Castles.  Too bad I can’t be there every day at sunset to catch the amazing colors and changes each day brings.  Thanks to Ryan Davis and his team for letting us come back to this amazing place!  Until next time, stay warm!