wildwestcore

[wildwestcore]

Another option to travel, at least to your first destination is by covered wagon or, gypsy wagon or sheep wagon. These wagontarins, allow a larger number of guests to join. (though dogs will have to walk. Sorry pooch.) Joining a wagon train, much like the stage, allows you to kick back and enjoy the ride, without the saddle sores. It also allows you to get to know what the people and region is like.

Prices will vary depending on how much you are taking aboard. One person and a small saddlebag can be charged as little as $10. Mind you this does not include food, which you May have to provide yourself. (joining a gypsy wagon will probably cover your meal for you)

The caravan master are always a friendly lot, so long as you are kind to them. And there is always an assortment of people you can get to know during the drive. Even "cookie" is a character all his/her own.

The sheep wagons themseleves are wide inside and amazingly comforatble. Some even have a inside stove. Of course unless the train master is alone, you MAY or may NOT get the pleasure of sleeping inside.

And as such, there may not be much privacy, Especially when it comes to travelling with the local gypsies

And I guess it need not be said that no matter what mode of transport to get to Bancroft, Aspen Ride or whereever, trouble may be just a shadow away.

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The second most popular mode to get around guests prefer is by train. But we will cover that in a later post. So, the next most popular mode is by horse back. The benefit here is that it allows you to take your time and travel at your own pace. but of course, this would mean you would have to know how to ride. If that's the case, you can bring your own horse or rent one, for the trip or your entire stay.

The stables at Sidewall has a couple of options here. They can rent you a horse as you need (of course there is a fee, for the horse, barding and feed. And you are responsible for the horse. And that means not just food but also bedding and bathing. Renting a horse can be done year-round and especially romantic for this snowy and autumn rides in the woods. Oh, and for those of you that bring your own horse and barding from home, the same rules apply to your horse, as you: your horses barding MUST be authentic. So, no modern fancy saddles, no logos, no plastic cords and braids. Real Leather and real hemp cord only.

Some people with hang around and find a saddlemate or more to ride with, if it's their first time. And just to note, by horse, it's about 2 hour ride from Sidewall to Bancroft and then another 2 hours to Aspen Ridge. So, if you leave late, you may want to prepare for an overnight camp out. Food and supplies can be purchased at Sidewall before you leave.

Another option is to hire a trailsman to help you get around, especially if it's your first time on a horse and in the territory. Horses are tethered together in a train.

Having the time to travel at your own speed, allows you to rest and camp any time you want. Of course, that means you are leaving yourself to the devices of Mother Nature, so be prepared mentally and well as with the right supplies. If you are lucky, you may run into an abandoned campfire or even an old, abandoned shack you can rest at. Or a local farmer may be willing to take a breather and chat with you.

Also, there is a small warning that being on your own, allows a greater range for ANYTHING to happen. You may run into a friendly merchant that will welcome you to take coffee with him. Or WORSE! These hills are filled with bandits my friend. Holdups do happen. (This is a discretion note for those into the ROLEPLAYING aspect that will be covered deeper as we get to Bancroft, Fort Addams, The native American village and other destinations.

[wildwestcore]

So let's take a look at what most people like to take for getting to Aspen Ridge. Travel mode ride.

Most guests love to take the stage for its aesthetic appeal. Yeah, its rocky and bumpy, not to mention cramped but there is that certain something about it guests enjoy. Maybe it's the close-comfort feel. But just so you know, no large dogs are allowed in the stage. So make plans ahead of time. Some guests will send their pets ahead on the train.

The stage takes one hour to get from Sidewall, to the small town of Bancroft, where there is a one hour stop over. And then from Bancroft to Aspen Ridge.

And depending on the time of the day, the stage may stop for a campfire Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner. No worries, the meal is paid for with your ticket. It's also a great time to stretch your legs and look about. There is lots of nature to take in. And if you are lucky, you may even get someone that will entertain the passengers.

Of course, there are downsides to all the ways you travel. And being that the stage also carries the mail and bank rolls, it's common for a robbery to happen. How are you with that gun partner?

The stage will stop in front of the Stagecoach Inn in Aspen Ridge. A Place we will detail more in depth later on. As we will talk about the guns and roleplaying with the guests and folk.

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By far the most popular way to get from Sidewell is the train. And we are not talking some "Disneyland kiddie ride. Nope, this is a REAL authentic train. the small station is on the other side of the Sidewell, just down the path some. There is a sign so you cannot miss it. the fee is $5 a head except pets and babies. The train come in about 6 times a day and from 8am to 9pm.

The second most popular transmute is the local stage-line te stage only holds 4 adults comfortably and luggage is limited. The stage leaves the Corral 4 times a day and various times. Also costing about $5 a head.

Another travel option is hitching a ride with someone heading to Aspen Ridge, Bancroft, the Fort Addams or other destinations. for those well trained, you can also rent your own buckboard. It's a tad pricey because you also have to rent your horses and feed but it's all up to you.

Of course if you are not carrying much in tow, you can always just rent a horse. Sometimes you may find someone to ride with you, especially if you are new to the "territory" renting a horse means you are responsible for it, ALL the way through your stay. So, you need barding, boarding and food for it. If your idea is to ride your way around, there are people at the stable that will teach you all you need. But mind you, your mount is your responsibility and has to be returned proper.

And of course, those in the best shape with little gear in hand, will dare the walk. Some people fret this idea but some naturel lovers and those looking to camp love the experience.

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Once y9ou are all set up for your visit you step out the back entrance doors and the transformation from 21st century to the 19th is complete. Welcome to the old west. Most people that visit for the first time get a bit disturbed at first. There is really not much to see here. Just a couple of buildings in general and a bunch of homes. This is not Aspen Ridge. This is just a small township called "Sidewell." Its populated by the workers of the Administration area and their families. The other thing new visitors get confused about is they are expecting shows to be put on for this. Let me explain that all the settlements here in are REAL, these are real people, going on with their lives. They have jobs, school, and lives. So do not expect gunfight shows to entertain you and be there to take pictures with you.

BUT these people will help you all you can. They will answer questions and get you accustomed to your slip into Wild West Core. Side Well does have a small general shop, Doctor's office, a corral and blacksmith, church and school. Also, a small cafe called "Katy's" and a small series of rental rooms over the cafe. There are also a fair amount of farms around. It's interesting to note that all the food in the township, comes from the ranches and farms you see. School is in session 5 days a week from 8am-2pm and there are masses held throughout the weekend.

But WHERE is Aspen Ridge?.....

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

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Welcome to Administration folks. you are now 90% emerged in my aesthetic experience. Here in Administration is where you pay for your experience. You can pay by the day, week, month, year or if you are a constant visitor, there is a LTP, "lifetime visitors package" deal. You also pay for your parking here and if you are bringing your pets, there is a fee as well. There are of course waivers and rules to sign. The lobby to administration is as Wild-West-Core as you can get. Two bronze statues of ladies in travel decorate the lobby and there is a very small cafe-like bar you can get some water, tea or coffee. If you have called ahead of time and made sleeping arrangements, you will get a pre-paid slip as well from the ladies at the desk.

Whoops hold on folks. No mundane clothes are allowed beyond the doors for most folks. Baseball hats, sunglasses, sneakers, back packs are strictly forbidden. Nope. Not even those snap-button shirts nor straw Stetson hats are allowed. You will have to "cowboy up." Follow me.....Ladies to the left and men to the right. you can see we have a hug gallery of wooden lockers for you to store your mundane clothing and things. Our Renters Shoppe is filled with clothes for men, woman and children, all themed in Wild-West-Core fashion. just like you seen on TV and in the films. From hats, to shoes, and most accoutrements, it's all here. Sorry we do not supply gun holster nor rigs here. What we will also supply here is travel supplies, like saddle bags, trunks, hangers, purses, parasols and camping gear if you have not brought it yourself. But again, it must all be aesthetic to the Wild-West-Core. And what you do not find in the Renter's Shoppe, you will find on your journey and during stay. There are charges for renting and purchasing garments.

The Renter's Shoppe does not discriminate at all: We have clothes for all walks of life, if you fancy yourself as a Parson, a Native American, a Mountie, A well to do city gentleman, it's all here. We do however have a guideline that some of the cultural clothing be left alone unless you are of that culture. Remember, your clothing will reflect on how others will see and interact with you. This is not a theme park. This is Another life - Your desired Aesthetic Life. Be Yourself. Not someone else.

The few things you are allowed to bring in are medications, personal items like eye glasses, combs, razors, soaps, under garments, snacks, animal food and other such small needs. All we ask is that it stays in a saddlebag, carper bag or some other sack that fits the aesthetic. And please leave your mundane articles in your hotel room or wherever you may be residing. There are attendants to help you find your look and make suggestions. And if you are bringing your own gear and attire from home, they may help you out. Mind you. BE PREPARED FOR ALL WEATHER AND EVENTS. We have winter coats, elegant ball dresses and men's suits for ALL your needs.

And again, do not panic if your do not find what you are looking for here. Once you get to Aspen Ridge or other places proper, there are plenty of shops to choose from to finish your desired aesthetic look.

Renters are responsible for all gear and garments that may be damaged or lost.

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

[wildwestcore]

A set of double doors leads from the garage into a lobby of sorts, and this is your truly first step into the world of Aspen Ridge. Signs direct you accordingly up a set of steps. Some signs instruct a series of simple rules all must follow. The atmosphere is thick with the scent of wood, leather, and nature in general. There are still some modern conveniences to subtly walk you through the change. There are some seats and tables to relax in, helping you get your bearings. And ample of rest rooms for those in need. Your feet amber up the wood steps to Administration

Administration is one of the FEW places you may inquire about use of a phone.

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

[wildwestcore]

The gravel road then opened up to a huge open lot that is surrounded by wooden cabin-like structures. A young man approached your car and hands you a parking slip and instructs you which of these many car parks you are aloud to park in. best hold on to that ticket, you will need it.

You drive into the appointed garage and find your space. You know here your "Motor Buggy". Each of these car parks holds 10 cars and each building had 1-2 attendants in them. While you are away on your "blast to my past" you can instruct you attendant is you want them to wash, oil, fuel and fix any faults to your car. No worries. Despite their western appearance, they are all well trained in maintaining Motor Buggies.

"Your Motor Buggy (car) attendant."

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

[wildwestcore]

Your vehicle turns off the main road onto a smooth gravel road. the trees on each side become lusher and in places the road is lines with logs and old railroad ties. A mile down and we cross a bridge that spans a wide brook. And instant you feel like something has changed. Like you entered a portal of some sort.

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

[wildwestcore]

Let us now take a trip to Aspen Ridge, as I have designed it in my mind since I was a kid. Let's hop in the car and leave our mundane world behind. Um, no, no cell phones. Might just as well leave them home. There is no internet, wifi nor cell towers anywhere. And trust me you will not need it.

Your car meanders down a country rode that twists about with pastures and farms around. The road is flanked on both sides with lush trees and the sun flickers as we travel. They air is clean and crisp. You know the way to where we are going, so there are no signs showing the way.

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

[wildwestcore]

Let's take a trip to a place I like to envision at times. A place where it's safe to live out your Wild-West-Core fantasy. A little (or maybe not so little) place I like to call "Aspen Ridge." So, grab your hat and saddle bag partner. best take some food as well; it's a bit of a trip but SO worth the visit.

(Images post from here in I found on the net and not mine. I use them for ONLY pure entertainment and general reference ideas for visualization. they are not being used to sell or fool anyone)

[wildwestcore]

I love the look and feel of these sheepskin/cowhind coats, they are so choice. And so effing warm. Had one as a kid. its was my great grandfathers from around 1920. To get one now is a cool $1000 bill. That ain't happening.

[wildwestcore]

It takes a community to make a town work. From the strong and mild, the rich and the poor, the young and old, men and women. And yes, even our hairy friends. This is the wild-west-core I love. When a town of many backgrounds work as one. Makes my job, as their local Gun-for-hire, so much easier.

[wildwestcore]

Just hop on your horse and just get to riding. No fences, no boundaries, no government owned land, no No-Go zones. Just drifting.

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I would so love to live in a town like this. Clothes, gear and all. Thats what Wild-West-Core is all about. All this and more.

[wildwestcore]

Sometimes just sitting in gear around town and taking in Wild West Core ambience is enough core for some people.

[wildwestcore]

More and more Wild-West-Core, another shot from the film Valley of Gwangi". When adventure does not find you, sometimes you have to go find the adventure.