Erik Brofos

by lexi reich

“ Growing up here was like going to summer camp every day,” Erik Brofos says. The longtime local moved to Vail in 1965 from New Hampshire when his parents made the decision to manage Vail Blanche Sport Shop. Now, 58 years later, Brofos reflects on a time when Vail only had a couple hundred residents and how it has blossomed since.

“Adventure was as far away as the edge of town, which was about where Ford Amphitheater to the east and Lionshead to the west are now with no I-70,” he explains. “Camping was as close as Golden Peak or Shady Oaks, as we called it, the cliffs above the town shop yard.”

After college, Brofos pursued a career as a ski instructor and finished his 47th year last season. He loves the active lifestyle of the Valley, and riding bikes has also been a big part of it. “A dozen years ago, a friend and I rode from Canada to Mexico to raise funds for Pediatric AIDS in our Valley,” Brofos recalls.

While Brofos knows firsthand the struggles of living in an expensive resort town, he believes volunteering and getting involved in the fabric of the community is key to maintain a positive outlook.

“I am very fortunate to have been brought to Vail at the age of 7 and to experience the building of a community, town and ski resort,” Brofos shares.

“All three of those things reside here, and it’s important that we take care of all three.”

Today, his family is heavily involved in the active lifestyle of the Valley; his wife Joelle works for Vail Resorts, his daughter is a wedding photographer and others in his family circle are ski instructors, as well.

Covered Bridge reached out to Brofos to learn more about his journey as a Vail Valley local.

What does “journey” mean to you?

As many people often announce that Vail isn’t the real world, I’ve got to step back and try to figure out why that is. My journey isn’t that different than anyone else anywhere else. As I write this, I’m celebrating my other journey; it’s been six years today from beating cancer for the second time, so yes, I’m winning life’s health journey in many ways. How can we help those around us see that life is tough everywhere, not just here? And, it’s damn beautiful, too. Check in with your friends, and see how their journey is going, and pull them up when needed. Remember we live in a town, a ski resort and a community, and we all share that journey!

What is your favorite part about living in the Vail Valley?

Well, it goes without saying that this is an amazing place to be from. Vacations and travel are always looked forward to, but coming home after is the best! I guess, over the years, I’ve tailored and blended my love of all things outside with my work, so it’s sometimes hard to tell one from the other. I’m fortunate to still work for the mountain, but primarily, I work for a family that I’ve been with for literally decades. Truly, some days I can’t believe I get paid to do what I enjoy. And yes, it takes several jobs to make my world go round! We really do live in an exceptional and supportive Valley. +

June

Pride in the Park

Avon, CO • June 3, 2023

Whether you are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community or an ally, all are welcome at this event celebrating visibility, equity and inclusion in the mountains of Colorado. The main festivities include a drag show and parade around Nottingham Park. avon.org

SunsetLIVE!

Avon, CO • June 4, 2023

This unique event is sure to be an evening to remember. Listen to a variety of local Eagle County musicians while enjoying a beautiful Rocky Mountain sunset. vailvalleypartnership.com

GoPro Mountain Games

Vail, CO • June 8-11, 2023

This is the perfect event for active, mountain-loving people. Be surrounded by a plethora of music and art as you spectate or participate in these thrilling games. Some of the games will include biking, hiking, kayaking, yoga, fishing and more. To register to participate, visit the website. mountaingames.com

AvonLIVE!: Battle of the Bands

Avon, CO • June 14, 2023 vailvalleypartnership.com

Enjoy a little friendly competition with this battle of the bands between national and regional talent. While listening to musicians compete against each other, enjoy some delicious food from local food trucks and ice cold beverages, and make some memories with good friends.

Downvalley Get Down

Gypsum, CO • June 14, 2023

This free concert is one of many that will take place in Gypsum this summer. Grab your family and friends, and enjoy food trucks, live music and nonalcoholic beverages. Not up for the food provided? Feel free to BYO dinner and picnic. townofgypsum.com

Vail Craft Beer Classic

Vail, CO • June 16-17, 2023 vailcraftbeerclassic.com

The seventh annual Vail Craft Beer Classic combines beer with the high-altitude adventure of Vail Valley. Enjoy the best assortment of craft beers, seltzers and ciders while listening to live music with the advantage of beautiful views.

Minturn Market Father’s Day Market

Minturn, CO • June 17, 2023

Enjoy this local, family-friendly artisan market that features a variety of local products, including food trucks, fresh produce, baked goods, art and pottery, clothing and jewelry, pet products and much more. Spend the day making memories with dad while getting the best the local community has to offer. minturn.org

Summer Solstice Race

Beaver Creek, CO • June 22, 2023

Celebrate the longest day of the year with fun competitive races for the whole family, including a kids race, 10K, 5K, food vendors and an award ceremony. This event is sure to be fun and will take place with gorgeous alpine views. raceentry.com

Bravo! Vail Music Festival

Vail, CO • June 22-25, 2023

Come join fellow classical music connoisseurs at this three-day festival featuring performances by orchestras, small ensembles and more. For information about ticket prices and dates, visit the website. asmf.org

Eagle Flight Days

Eagle, CO • June 23-25, 2023

This event is sure to be fun for the whole family with activities like kid zone, interactive games, splash of color fun run, silent disco, crafts and even a parade, which you can dress up as an old-time settle for. Among the fun, exciting events, you can indulge in all the festival favorites, such as food vendors, fresh popcorn and refreshing beverages. eagleoutside.com

JULY

July Fourth Kids Bike Parade

Eagle, CO • July 4, 2023

Give the kids a Fourth of July to remember with this fun parade! Bring your bikes, trikes and scooters decked out in red, white and blue to show your American pride. Kids can also enjoy bouncy houses, face painting and freeze pops. eagleoutside.com

Farm to Table Dinners

Vail, CO • July 7, 2023

Enjoy a chef-crafted dinner sourced from local Colorado fields that will include seasonal favorites. You can’t beat this intimate dinner in the heart of Vail that is sure to enhance your dining experience. For recurring dates, visit the website. discovervail.com

Vail’s Art on the Rockies Festival

Edwards, CO • July 7-9, 2023

Enjoy art with a view with this festival featuring beautiful art from over 110 artists from around the country. Whether you are there to purchase, judge or enjoy art, it is sure to put a smile on your face. zapplication.org

Vail Farmers’ Market & Art Show

Vail, CO • July 9, 2023

For its 22nd year, over 148 tents of delicious fresh food, handmade products and beautiful artwork will be available to peruse. Enjoy the fun of the hand-picked food vendors mixed with a gorgeous view of Vail Valley. vailfarmersmarket.com

Vail Jazz Festival

Vail, CO • July 9, 2023

This music festival is sure to be fun for the whole family. Running from July 9 to Sept. 4, it is sure to bring your spirits up with the many classical performances and workshops. Expand your knowledge and love for this underrated style of music, and let it lift you up. vailjazz.org

Lakeside Cinema

Avon, CO • July 14, 2023 vaildaily.com

Gather your closest friends and family, and enjoy free movies in the park ranging from adult classics to family-friendly animations. This is sure to be fun for the whole family with various other activities available for early-goers, such as picnicking and paddle boating.

Eagle County Fair and Rodeo

Eagle, CO • July 27, 2023

Experience an old western-style event this summer at the Eagle County Fair and Rodeo. Activities of non-stop fun include The Freedom Riders Drill Team, Mutton Bustin’, wagon hitch, rodeo clown and professional rodeo contestants and their horses. Ticket sales information is available on the website. eaglecountyfairandrodeo.com

Vail Dance Festival

Vail, CO • July 28- August 7, 2023

This two-week festival features world-renowned artists and companies and multiple festival events, ranging from master classes for pre-professional dancers to conversations on dance, pop-up performances and more. vaildance.org

Avon Arts Celebration

Avon, CO • July 29-30, 2023

The fourth annual Avon Arts Celebration is sure to be fun for the whole family with an art show featuring works in various mediums, such as printmaking, ceramics, mixed media, jewelry, wood, fiber and photography. You’re sure to find artwork that is just right for you at this celebration festival. avon.org

August

Berry Picker Race

Vail, CO • August 3, 2023

Enjoy this race that tests runners of all abilities on both single-track and double-track terrain over 4.5 miles of uphill running with an average grade of 14%. This race begins at the base of Gondola One in Vail Village and ends at Mid-Vail at the top of Gondola One. raceentry.com

R4R Women’s Fly-Fishing Event

Minturn, CO • August 3-6, 2023

Enjoy nature in the company of other women who want to have a great time for a great cause. This event raises money for the Risers for Rett Association, so whether you are a fishing expert or a first timer, you will be making a memorable difference. eventbrite.com

Beaver Creek Art Festival

Beaver Creek, CO • August 4-6, 2023

Enjoy the 35th annual Beaver Creek Art Festival and all that it has to offer the first weekend of August. This festival includes a perfect ambience to view and purchase amazing artwork from the nation’s talented artists and crafters. Spend the weekend in good company with immaculate vibes radiating from both the art and the artists. artfestival.com

Kids Adventure Games

Vail, CO • August 10-13, 2023

This is the perfect event to get your kids out of the house this summer with a variety of challenging obstacle courses and friendly competition. This event teaches lifelong values of teamwork, sportsmanship, problem-solving, overcoming adversity and joy and appreciation for the environment. kidsadventuregames.com

Vail Wine Classic

Vail, CO • August 10-13, 2023

Calling all wine enthusiasts for a fun weekend of wine tasting. This grand tasting includes domestic and international wines, premium craft beers and seltzers. Also, enjoy live music, appetizers, educational seminars and paired dinners. Must be 21 with a valid ID to attend. vailwineclassic.com

Block Party Eagle 2023

Eagle, CO • August 11-13, 2023

This summer kickback is sure to be a blast for all ages with a variety of fun activities, including live music, bar, local food trucks and craft vendors. Enjoy all the neighborhood block party fun on a whole other level for a weekend you won’t forget. allevents.in

Drinkering and Tinkering: A Zero Waste Craft Event

Avon, CO • August 17, 2023

Create an upcycled clock at this fun event that promotes a healthy environment with a lesson in the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling. Bring a friend, crack open a cold one and explore how you can upcycle many different household items. walkingmountains.org

Brew’Au Avon

Avon, CO • August 19, 2023

For the fourth year in a row, attend this day full of fun for the whole family. This festival includes unlimited samples of amazing brews, seltzers and ciders in a souvenir sampling glass, live music, water lanterns, food trucks, kids activities, lawn games and many more activities. Ticket packages are available on the website. avon.org

Nature Tykes

Gypsum, CO • August 21, 2023

Introduce your children to the beauty of nature, and watch as they learn about the environment through fun activities and lessons. Explored areas include the woods, meadows and wildflowers. Registration is required. walkingmountains.org

XTERRA USA Championship Triathlon

Avon, CO • August 26, 2023

Enjoy some family-friendly competition while getting some healthy exercise in this set of triathlon events. Compete in a full triathlon, sprint triathlon or both, and start out your day right. Also, participate in a variety of festival-like activities after the races, and enjoy a fun summer day. xterraplanet.com

September

Gourmet on Gore

Vail, CO • September 1-3, 2023

Spend Labor Day weekend having fun at this culinary event that includes food trucks, wine, beer and spirit tasting, live music and other fun boutique events. Enjoy this gourmet event in great company and within great views in the heart of Vail Village. gourmetongore.com

Summer’s End

Avon, CO • September 1-4, 2023

Celebrate summer’s end at this annual Labor Day weekend festival showcasing fun activities, including lakeside cinema, sand volleyball, paddle boating, swimming, picnicking and so much more, all while enjoying live music. discoveravon.org

Paddle Battles

Avon, CO • September 3, 2023

Celebrate summer’s end with this unique array of family-friendly activities, ranging from paddle board competitions to a cardboard boat regatta. discoveravon.org

Vail Oktoberfest

Vail, CO • September 8-10, 2023

Enjoy this classic Bavarian festival in one of two weekends this September. Experience all the festivities, including brat eating, keg bowling and stein lifting contests, yodeling, alpenhorn blowing and Bavarian dancers. oktoberfestvail.com

Dynafit Meadowgold 5K and 10K Minturn, CO • September 9, 2023

This is the seventh and final race in the Vail Recreation District's Vail Trail Running Series. The 5K runners will enjoy a 1.5-mile double-track ascent through mountain meadows and past old homesteads. 10K runners will ascend technical single-track on the beautiful West Grouse Trail with multiple stream crossings and fields of blooming wildflowers. vailrec.com

Vail Automotive Classic

Vail, CO • September 15-17, 2023

This event is sure to rev everyone’s engines, as it showcases a variety of different vehicle types ranging from classic to futuristic. Also, enjoy various other festivities, including drinks, good food, live music and lawn games. vailautomotiveclassic.com

Freebird 50 and 25K Mountain Bike Races

Eagle, CO • September 16-17, 2023

This popular mountain bike race is back again and is sure to be a good time. Grab your friends and family, and experience and enjoy the uphill route and beautiful scenery as you work on your stamina. strambecco.com

Mountain RATS Festival

Eagle, CO • September 16-17, 2023

Celebrate the arrival of the fall season with trail running and mountain bike challenges. Ring in the end of summer with exciting festival fun and adventure for the whole family. Afterwards, you can relax with a beer, hot meal, music and a massage at the recovery station. ultrasignup.com

The Vail Concours

Vail, CO • September 17, 2023

Calling all car enthusiasts for this showcase of diverse cars, ranging from supercars to vintage classics and motorcycles. carsandcoffeeevents.com

Donation-Based Yoga

Minturn, CO • September 26, 2023

Attend this donation-based, guided yoga session, and reach your spiritual awakening. Give back to the community with donations and help those who can’t afford yoga knowledge and classes. Registration is required online before the session. vaildaily.com

October

Community Meditation

Eagle, CO • October 1, 2023

Enjoy a heartfelt evening of meditation as you take time for your mind and body. Gather with a community of wellness and spirituality focused people, and witness something truly special happen inside you. vaildaily.com

EarthKeepers

Eagle, CO • October 10, 2023

Bring your kids, and watch as they explore the natural world and have fun learning about the world and environment with others. Nothing beats watching your kids see new things for the first time. This event will bring fun for everyone — children and adults alike. walkingmountains.org

Man of the Cliff

Avon, CO • October 14-15, 2023

Join the fun of lumber-jack games and outdoor ruggedness at this festival full of vibes. Put on your favorite flannel, and participate in axe throwing, keg tossing, speed chopping and so much more. avon.org

Family Story Time

Gypsum, CO • October 19, 2023

Grab the little ones, and head on over to the Gypsum Public Library for some fun. Kids can enjoy theme-based stories, songs, rhymes and more to encourage healthy development. vaildaily.com

All Terrain Games

Eagle, CO • October 25, 2023

Compete in this multifaceted race that combines elements of endurance, strength and coordination. This race varies over many different tests of endurance, including mountain biking, rock climbing, fitness tests and trail running. raceentry.com

Avon Spooktacular Polar Plunge

Avon, CO • October 28, 2023

Grab some of your best friends, and enjoy this fundraising event where you will plunge into the freezing Nottingham Lake for Special Olympics Colorado. specialolympicsco.org

Minturn Halloween

Minturn, CO • October 30, 2023

Put your costumes on, grab the kids and head on over to Minturn for some trick-or-treating and fun photo opportunities. This family-friendly Halloween event is sure to be fun for the whole family. minturn.org

Minturn Monster Dash 3M and Tombstone 10M Run

Minturn, CO • October 30, 2023

Celebrate the spooky season right with these festive themed runs! Participate in a 3M, 10M or both, and stay active this Halloween. raceentry.com

November

Revely Vail Thanksgiving Festival

Vail, CO • November TBA

This event will help you and those you love kick off the holiday season with beautiful views and fun winter activities. Explore the magic of the holiday season at this must-go event, featuring things like light displays and skiing fun. discovervail.com

Vail-Beaver Creek Restaurant Week

Vail and Beaver Creek, CO • November TBA

Enjoy high-altitude dining with an array of restaurants spanning across two World Class Mountain Resorts — Vail and Beaver Creek. Try the best that these resorts have to offer, paired with amazing winter views. diningataltitude.com

Winter Market and Holiday Fair

Eagle, CO • November TBA

This is a one-stop shopping experience for all of your holiday needs. Choose from handmade crafts, holiday must-haves, beauty products, food and so much more. festivalnet.com

Brush Creek Elementary Turkey Trot Eagle, CO • November 23, 2023

This event is one that the whole family will enjoy with a 5K on Thanksgiving morning. There will be snacks and hot beverages waiting for you at the finish line to warm up with. eagleschools.net

Eagle-Vail Turkey Trot

Eagle-Vail, CO • November 23, 2023

Enjoy a fun family event on the morning of Thanksgiving. This event features a fun 5K run/walk through Eagle-Vail in which fun Thanksgiving costumes are encouraged. It is sure to be a fun time and an excellent way to get your exercise in before turkey time. youthpower365.org

Beaver Creek Tree Lighting Ceremony

Beaver Creek, CO • November 24, 2023

Create new holiday memories this year at the annual Beaver Creek tree lighting ceremony, where the town Christmas tree begins its journey to Christmas. Enjoy this festive evening with your closest friends and family this holiday season. beavercreek.com

Christmas Fun Run and Walk

Eagle, CO • November 26, 2023

Start off the Christmas season right this year with a fun run and walk. This event includes a 5K and a one-mile option. This is sure to be fun for the whole family. raceentry.com

Vail

Après Cafe

A casual dining and drink spot in East Vail that’s great for groups, game day, après-adventure and dinner.

Open Thursday-Monday, 1-9 p.m.

4695 Racquet Club Drive, Vail 970.688.5437 aprescafevail.com

El Segundo Vail

Hip restaurant whipping up casual Mexican, Asian and American dishes, plus an extensive tequila list.

223 Gore Creek Drive, Vail 970.763.5470 elsegundovail.com

Fall Line Kitchen & Cocktails

Globally accented new American cuisine and cocktails served in a ski lodge inspired setting.

232 Bridge St., Vail 970.470.4803 falllinevail.com

Montauk Seafood Grill

Warm, intimate restaurant and bar offering refined surf 'n' turf and an extensive wine list.

549 E. Lionshead Circle, Vail 970.476.2601 montaukvail.com

Pazzo’s Pizzeria

Local pizzeria chain serving pies, pasta and sandwiches, plus beer and wine, in a casual atmosphere.

122 E. Meadow Drive, Vail 970.476.9026 pazzospizza.com

Root & Flower

Modern bar offering craft cocktails and a curated selection of wines by the glass, plus a changing menu of New American bites.

288 Bridge St., Vail 970.470.4189 rootandflowervail.com

The Grazing Fox + Picnic Vail

Antipasto platters, grazing tables and luxury lunch boxes; mountain-inspired picnics.

Delivering East Vail to Edwards 970.279.1342 thegrazingfox.com picnicvail.com

Two Arrows Coffee | Bar

Craft coffee and cocktails with fresh local provisions in the heart of Vail Village.

225 Wall St., Vail 970.763.5101 twoarrowscoffee.com

EAGLE-VAIL + AVON

Foods of Vail

Small food store and catering outfit offering gourmet prepared foods, plus olive oils and cheeses.

82 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., #100, Avon 970.949.0282 foodsofvail.com

Hygge Life Shop & Café

Home décor shop with a cozy craft coffee bar and a collection of Scandinavian home goods, accessories and gifts.

41149 US-6, Avon 970.331.5745 hyggelife.com

Pazzo’s Pizzeria

Local pizzeria chain serving pies, pasta and sandwiches, plus beer and wine, in a casual atmosphere.

82 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., Avon 970.949.9900 pazzospizza.com

Vin48

Stylish spot for wine by the glass or bottle and creative American fare in a cozy setting with patio.

48 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., Avon 970.748.9463 vin48.com

Minturn

Sunrise Minturn

Mountain café with local ingredients, coffee, breakfast and lunch.

132 Main St., Minturn 970.827.5353 sunriseminturn.com

Edwards

Craftsman Brew Co.

Modern, chef-driven sandwich and beer bar. 0105 Edwards Village Blvd., Edwards 970.855.2718 craftsmanbrewco.com

Drunken Goat

A cheese shop, wine bar and gathering place for delicious charcuterie, bruschetta, paninis, salads and soups, along with gourmet market offerings and an amazing patio.

56 Edwards Village Blvd., #104, Edwards 970.926.1393 drunkengoatco.com

Riverwalk Theater + Edwards Supply Company

Locally owned movie theater featuring craft beer, BBQ sandwiches, coffee, pizza, soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, popcorn, candy and snacks.

34253 US-6, Edwards 970.855.2182 riverwalktheater.com

Village Bagel

Fresh, hand-rolled bagels made the old fashioned way. Schmears, savory bagel sandwiches and homemade pizza available.

34500 US-6 B7, Edwards 970.855.2940 villagebagel.co

Eagle

El Segundo Eagle

Hip restaurant whipping up casual Mexican, Asian and American dishes, plus an extensive tequila list.

1020 Capitol St., Eagle 970.328.6220 elsegundoeagle.com

Inner Light Juice

Juice bar with a mission to serve organic nourishment that provides healing and balance to body, mind, soul and planet.

115 E. 2nd St., Eagle 970.705.4188 innerlightjuice.com

Pazzo’s Pizzeria

Local pizzeria chain serving pies, pasta and sandwiches, plus beer and wine, in a casual atmosphere.

50 Chambers Ave., Unit C, Eagle 970.337.9900 pazzospizza.com

Wild Sage

A healthy approach to casual dining, vegetarian and vegan friendly menu with craft cocktails, local draft beer and an amazing wine list in the heart of Eagle Ranch.

1143 Capitol St., #104A, Eagle 970.705.1689 wildsageeagle.com

Gypsum

Village Bagel

Fresh, hand-rolled bagels made the old fashioned way. Schmears, savory bagel sandwiches and homemade pizza available.

150 Cooley Mesa Rd., Gypsum 970.855.2940 villagebagel.co

“My 1970 summer on horseback in the Gore Range-Eagles Nest Primitive Area, working as an outfitter guide, kindled my appreciation of the Colorado wilderness and awakened my curious mind to journey to wild places around the world.”

Robert (Bob) Woods