The Lander Roll & Slide Poker Ride

Finding Joy in the Dark Days of Winter

 Lander, Wyoming
Written by Melanie Limpus
Photography contributed by Shannon Givens

Winter in Wyoming sometimes feels never-ending. In the summer months, warmer weather and extra daylight prompt people to be more active outdoors, attend more social gatherings, and take vacations, which can make time seem to fly by. In contrast, winter's colder, shorter, and darker days tend to keep people indoors more often, contributing to a feeling of time moving much slower.

There are a handful of people around the state who know where to find the good snow and play hard. Others seek the southern facing rock walls to climb in ideal conditions. But for those who have minimal equipment, or even a lack of motivation, winter drags on and on.

That’s why Jeff Stanbury of Lander Presents came up with the idea of an event to bring people together for fun and easy winter recreation: The Lander Roll & Slide Poker Ride.

“I’ve wanted to start a Poker Ride since moving to Lander in 2004,” Jeff explained. “We launched Lander Presents in 2021 with the goal of hosting events that would help bring people to Lander and add to its great community. After the launch, we discussed creating more winter events, as many business owners expressed wanting more winter activities to stimulate the local economy.”

One of those business owners was Rio Rose, owner of the Bike Mill. Jeff approached Rio about creating a Poker Ride in Sinks Canyon that incorporated as many forms of winter travel as possible (fat bikes, skis, snowshoes, etc.).

Jeff and Rio also thought collaborating with other groups to increase participation and volunteers was a good idea. With the help of Lander Nordic Ski Association Vice President Scott Van Orman, Lander Cycling Club Executive Director Ami McAlpin, and Gannett Peak Sports Communications and Marketing Manager Blaire Bancroft, the idea came to fruition, and the first annual Lander Roll & Slide Poker Ride began in 2022.

The objective is simple. Participants fat bike, ski, snowshoe, and hike to collect one card at each checkpoint throughout Sinks Canyon and compete to build the best poker hand for a cash prize of $250. After the Roll and Slide, the community gathers back in Lander for an afterparty hosted by Lander Presents with live music, dancing, and awards for the best poker hand. 

“Winters can be sparse. It’s really about getting the community together in a time where we all need a little more connection,” said Ami McAlpin.

Sinks Canyon echoes with endless laughter all day as folks dressed in colorful, silly outfits make their way to each of the checkpoints, known as aid stations. People of all ages and capabilities hike and ride the snowy trails with their friends, families, and even dogs. Those who want to participate, but don’t own any equipment, can rent skis, fat bikes, and snowshoes at the local bike shops. The goal is simply to enjoy the outdoors and have fun in the midst of winter.

“It’s not a race. There’s no stress and no rush. You take your time and make your way. It’s truly a great opportunity for people to try out a new sport because of the lack of urgency,” said Ami. “This event brings all kinds of supportive people together and everyone just lifts each other up all day.

The aid stations are run by supporting organizations, who competitively decorate their stands with themes and wear costumes. They also provide warm drinks and snacks to participants, and even fire pits for a chance to warm up between stretches, which allows people to take their time and go at their own pace. 

“It’s so much fun that it doesn’t matter if people don’t get to all of the aid stations, or just want to swing by the warming hut to visit. There’s no pressure,” Ami grinned. “We try to take away the competition and make it all about who can be the silliest. The more tutus, the better!”

The Lander Roll & Slide Poker Ride is a fundraising event for the Lander Nordic Ski Association, Lander Cycling Club, and Lander Presents, with support from the Bike Mill, Gannett Peak Sports, Sinks Canyon State Park, and CWC Alpine Science Institute. Funds go toward winter trail maintenance and the Lander Presents free summer concert series.

“Lander Presents is responsible for the party, and we are so excited for this year’s event. The afterparty will be at the Lander Bar patio featuring live music by Strumbucket from Jackson,” Jeff said proudly.

March 2, 2024 marks the third annual Lander Roll & Slide Poker Ride. Don’t let the snow win this winter season. Embrace it and have fun.

“Winters can be sparse. It’s really about getting the community together in a time where we all need a little more connection.”

Ami McAlpin