The 45th Annual Yule Log Hunt, presented by the Tread of Pioneers Museum, is over! The log was found at 3:34pm on Thursday, Dec. 19 at the Fly Gulch Schoolhouse on Strawberry Park Elementary campus by Abbey Iberg and Josh Fowler.
They say that they were tipped off by the clue referencing Remington- who was growing strawberries in Strawberry Park in the early 20th century. They walked the few public trails around Strawberry Park after checking around Perry-Mansfield areas, and found the log! They have been looking for years and are so excited! More on this story and photos tomorrow AM, after museum staff meets and photographs the two with the log. In the meantime, below are the clues they followed to find it…
IMPORTANT NOTE: Every year, the clues take you on a path towards the log’s hiding place; they do not describe the hiding spot itself until the last few clues of the hunt. The log is not placed in its hiding place until after the release of clue #6, in an effort to prevent hunters from randomly stumbling upon the log without using the clues.
The 2024 hunt starts at the site of last year’s hiding place: Snake Island across from Dr. Rich Weiss Park. Clues often include information that refer to community history or past events.
Wed., Dec. 11- Clue #1
Barn and truck, history here.
Seek some shade and quiet near.
After the split, space of pleasure.
They found the log, and claimed their treasure!
Thursday, Dec. 12 – Clue #2
Cross on over, near the end.
Find your way, at the bend.
A reptile’s path, was the place.
The hunt begins, don’t lose the race.
Friday, Dec. 13 – Clue #3
Make the turn, safe past the way.
Climb on up, towards Adams’ day.
Around the corners, add to nine.
Stay the course, use the sign.
Monday, Dec. 16 – Clue #4
Hunting, biking, skiing too.
Scenic vistas, what a view!
On the tops, you’ll see the lakes.
Stop or go, test your brakes.
Tuesday, Dec. 17 – Clue #5
Winding down, you’re on the path.
Head on back, or take a bath?
Rushing water, making history.
Don’t give up, it’s all a mystery!
Wed., Dec. 18 – Clue #6 (THE LOG HAS BEEN HIDDEN!)
P and C, built a dream.
Right above the flowing stream.
Grab a soda, a refreshing drink.
Solve the clues, you’re on the brink.
Thursday, Dec. 19 – Clue #7
Scheddeger from Swiss descent.
Remington would make a cent.
One, two three, become one.
Grow the garden, soil and sun.
Background: The Yule Log Hunt has been a traditional holiday event in this community for over 45 years! The three-foot long, 25-pound log is hidden within the city limits of Steamboat Springs. It is distinctively marked with the words “Yule Log” (in RED letters) and at least a portion of it will be visible from its hiding place. The log will not be on private property, inside of buildings, or in areas that charge fees to enter.