hello from our publisher
Journey Publisher Jaunt Media Collective
“The only thing that is ultimately real about your journey is the step that you are taking at this moment. That’s all there ever is.” ECKHART TOLLE
Editor-In-Chief Kim Fuller Managing Editor Lexi Reich Assistant Editor Lauren Farrauto Creative Director Chelsea Connolly Creative Consultants Kitty Nicholason + Robyn Britt Partnerships Bobby L’Heureux
JUST AS MOUNTAINS are climbed one step at a time, narratives are written as moments are woven together, piece by piece. The articles in this “journey” issue inspire deep discovery and exploration of the Vail Valley, from thoroughly sourced features to eloquent personal essays. With every stride forward, we move in the direction of transformation, because it’s quite true that the only constant is change. From starting businesses and starting families, to adventuring in the local backcountry or around the world — every journey reminds us that we are always shifting from one state of being to another. “Your Guide to Mushroom Foraging in the Vail Valley” on page 82 was not only the impetus for this issue’s cover, captured by the amazing Abby Dykes; it was also a reminder to take more time along every journey to look a little more closely — you never know what’s just under a fallen pinecone on the forest floor. The more challenging steps of individuals and entire communities are also taken here. “Mental Wellness in the Mountains” on page 98 unearths the reality of many who are struggling — your friends, neighbors, kids, partners. When living in this world can feel uncertain and
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In Gratitude,
Digital Editor Kristen Grace Intern Riley Tedesco Contributors Townsend Bessent, Kristen Blizzard, Whitney Brofos, Julia Clarke, Tom Cohen, Abby Dykes, Kaitlin Emig, Sandy Ferguson Fuller, Kim Fuller, Kristen Grace, Courtney Holden, Kira Johnson, Ayla Katsorchis, Laura Lieff, Cameron Martindell, Laura Mills, Kimberly Nicolletti, Madison Rahhal, Lexi Reich, Maddie Rhodes, Becca Saulsberry, Jace Stout, Riley Tedesco, Tracey Van Curran ,T.J. Voboril, Jennifer Weintraub, Agostina Zampieri, Ian Zinner Cover Photographer Abby Dykes Website coveredbridgevail.com Social @coveredbridgemag Partnership Opportunities Email bobby@jauntmediacollective.com or call 815.414.9642 Proudly produced + printed in Colorado.
Kim Fuller with Bobby L’Heureux Jaunt Media Collective jauntmediacollective.com
Thank you for supporting local media! Jaunt Media Collective 2077 N. Frontage Road Suite D Vail, CO 81657 ® 2023 Covered Bridge Magazine. All rights reserved. No portion may be duplicated, in whole or in part, without the written consent of its publishers. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. The publisher assumers no responsibility for accuracy of information or omissions from the material provided. Company cannot be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services rendered by the advertisers published in this magazine.
c o v e r e d b r i d g e va i l . c o m
PHOTO BY KIM FULLER
Dear Readers,
overwhelming, stories of transformation and growth provide us with hope. Find uplift on page 28 with “Biohack Longevity: How to Live Healthier + Happier,” and Corrie Crane’s impressive path of sobriety and training for Leadville’s “Race Across the Sky” on page 30. This issue is full of resources for you, from postpartum tips for mountain mamas (page 46) and co-parenting goals for families (page 44), along with nods to notable gear, local style, art and food, plus tips for visiting nearby and faraway destinations. We make magazines, because we know the power of authentic storytelling isn’t lost on humanity, just as an epic quest and even a walk around the block can leave someone changed. So, valued readers, keep turning the pages, and be sure to enjoy the journey.
Community Engagement Laura Mills