Covered Bridge Magazine | Winter + Spring 2022-23 | Issue #3

Depth

Dear Readers,

WE KNOW … you came for the winter, and you stayed for the summer. Yet every year when late-autumn knocks, the temps drop and that glorious white fluffy stuff starts to fall. We count the depth of snow by inches, then feet, like we count our seasons in years and then decades.

As Covered Bridge celebrates a full cycle around the sun with this issue, now num ber three, I’m pausing to acknowledge that what keeps locals here and visitors coming back is not the stats of our snowpack but the depth of our community.

Perhaps at the core of the Vail Valley there lay an invincible summer, but we all know on its surface shimmers an irresistible winter. Crisp Rocky Mountain air and bluebird powder days; morning ski tours and afternoon après. We can witness locals in awe as they thrive, like ice climber David Roetzel captured solo ing The Pencil in East Vail on this issue’s cover; we can celebrate the courage and hard work of small businesses and organizations like Craftsman, Seagull’s

Cycles, Animal Camp Chiropractic, North Coast Originals, Aprés Cafe, Habitat for Humanity and Vail Mountaineer Hockey Club — all profiled among others on the pages that follow.

We can commend the evolution of this special place, with opportunities like remote work (page 16) and new art forms emerging from top talents like Ben Belgrad (page 60), all while honoring the rich legacy of the Valley with stories that celebrate its pioneers (page 42).

While we can measure powder, the efforts, passions and contributions that the people of the Vail Valley make are beyond a measure of depth. We thank you for being a part of it all!

In Gratitude, Kim Fuller with Bobby L’Heureux

Jaunt Media Collective jauntmediacollective.com

Publisher Jaunt Media Collective

Editor-In-Chief Kim Fuller

Managing Editor Lexi Reich

Assistant Editor

Lauren Farrauto

Creative Director Chelsea Connolly

Creative Consultants Kitty Nicholason + Shannon Kennedy

Advertising Bobby L’Heureux

Interns

Erin Phillips + Robin Britt

Contributors

Townsend Bessent, Lisa Blake, Sam Bryson, Julia Clarke, Kaitlin Emig, Sandy Ferguson Fuller, Kim Fuller, Lucie Hanes, Clare Hefferren, Sherrie Innis, Ben Koelker, Laura Lieff, Olivia Lyda, Zach Mahone, Cameron Martindell, Kellie McKenzie, Makenzie Mueller, Laura Mills, Kimberly Nicoletti, Cal Orlowski, Nate Pasquale, Lexi Reich, Christine Rice, Becca Saulsberry, Donovan Sornig, Steve Sunday, Trent Swanson, Susi Thurman, Jon Van Zyle, T.J. Voboril, Adam Weinberger, Jennifer Weintraub

Cover Photographer Zach Mahone Website coveredbridgevail.com Social @coveredbridgemag

Partnership Opportunities Email bobby@jauntmediacollective.com or call 815.414.9642

Proudly produced + printed in Colorado.

Thank you for supporting local media! Jaunt Media Collective 2077 North Frontage Rd. Suite D Vail, CO 81657

® 2022-23 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.

PHOTO BY KIM FULLER

Successfully

DAVID ROETZEL

soloed all 16 pieces of ice in East Vail in one day.

Photographer Zach Mahone with local climber

David Roetzel

How long have you been a photographer, and how are you currently finding inspiration in the craft? I've been a full-time freelancer since 2010. It's been a long journey, and I have shot all kinds of things. For the past cou ple years, I have shifted my focus away from photography to pursue other interests. I still do photography, however, just in a different capacity. I'm planning on making the switch to mirrorless in the next year or so, and I suspect when I do that my interest will pick back up in the craft.

Tell us about this ice climbing session. What is the location, and why this this area significant to Colorado ice climbing? East Vail is world renowned for its ice and mixed climbing — particularly because of the level of difficulty in the mixed climbing or dry tooling world, which involves picking the rock directly without the aid of ice. East Vail is home to sev eral large waterfalls, which form amazing frozen waterfalls that are super fun to climb, such as The Fang, The Designa tor, Firehouse, Pumphouse and many more.

What do you remember about this shoot that stands out to you? What details like the time of day, lighting, angles, etc. helped you capture such awesome images and highlight the depth of this sport and the art of photography?

I owe this image fully to David Clifford and David Roetzl. Clifford is a friend and fellow photographer from Aspen. He was in town shooting longtime Vail local David Roetzl, as Roetzl was attempting a once-in-a-lifetime feat. Roetzl was going to solo essentially every ice climb in East Vail. I forget the exact number, but I think it was over 15 climbs. He was able to do this, because he was soloing, which means climb ing without a rope or protection. When soloing, you move a lot faster, as ice soloing is extremely dangerous, and one mistake would cause certain injury if not death.

This was a huge day by any measure. Not only was Roetzl climbing all the routes, but there are a half dozen long approaches straight up a mountain to get to the ice climbs — approaches I accompanied him on. Out of all the climbing I witnessed that day, there was only one moment where Ro etzl showed uncertainty and I was concerned for his safe ty, but he pushed through. It was an incredible feat, and I am honored to be part of that day. The particular image on the cover was on a route called The Pencil. +

What does Depth mean to you?

Lindsea Stowe Co-Owner of Two Arrows Coffee | Bar in Vail

“Establishing depth has always been a means of understanding and adding mean ing. It has been an innate drive behind all of my passions. With both coffee and yoga, there is a deep curiosity to hold a full understanding and connect with the origins. Coffee has never just been about the delicious morning beverage but understanding where it came from geographically and connecting to all the hands that helped it to get here. Yoga past the physical practice became a means to add context to life. It’s a tool to see reality more clearly and, in turn, have deeper con nections within all my relationships. Depth to me is what adds richness to life.”

Grant Smith Co-Owner of Riverwalk Theater in Edwards

“My thoughts on depth can be split into two general paths. One relating to being a physical measurement that can be viewed, touched or seen. Something that is tangible or evident if you are curious or paying attention. This depth is a measure ment of the past. Something that can be recorded with the right tools and skills. Something we should all think about and understand. The second path relates to a less tangible and more subjective interpretation. Depth as it relates to commit ment, quality and growth. Depth in this sense of the word is more subjective and less static. It's relative to where you are viewing the creation or easing of depth from. This is active depth creation with real by-products. Good and bad.”

Rocio (Coco) Andrade

The Cycle Effect Board Member

“Like the autumn colors, you can only see the changes in the leaves, but what holds the tree standing are the roots keeping it strong and grounded. As a child of immi grant parents, I have found the depth of my roots in my culture, family, food and the relationships I have built in my community. Building intense connections with others has contributed to who I am. As a board member of The Cycle Effect, I want young girls to know that they don’t have to leave their roots to become who they want to be and always remember que, ¡Si se puede!”

valley happenings

National Brotherhood of Skiers 50th Anniversary

AS VAIL MOUNTAIN celebrates its 60th anniversary this winter season, the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS) will come to town for its 50th Golden Anniversary Summit. The NBS Summit is an annual fundraiser that brings together more than 50 member clubs and thousands of supporters from around the world. During a week of winter sports fun from February 4-11, 2023, NBS will raise funds to support their mission — increasing participation in winter sports while developing and supporting athletes of color with the potential to win international competitions. +

Vail Mountain is honored to host the NBS Summit and is committed to creating more equity, inclusion and diversity at the resort and in the industry.

JOHN PLACK senior communications manager for Vail and Beaver Creek

PHOTO COURTESY OF ASPEN SNOWMASS

Craftsman Is Moving on Up (Across the Street) in Edwards

By Kaitlin Emig

THE NEW LOCATION of Craftsman is only a stone’s throw from their previ ous spot in Edwards, but it has expand ed and renovated to match its growing business. Craftsman took over the old Gore Range Brewery in November 2021 and opened its new doors this past October. Through this change, it will offer an elevated experience to its customers from new menu items, brews on tap and a lively atmosphere where everyone knows your name.

Chef and owner Chris Schmidt shares his insights on the new space and what it took to finally open. “There are some similarities to the old Craftsman,” he says. “We definitely updated the interior by adding tons of maple, concrete, steel

and lots of black and grey features.” The team maintained and built upon the open kitchen concept with a large “chef’s counter,” showcasing a wood-fired oven. To brighten up the space, they are adding lots of plants, as well.

Schmidt acknowledges how Craftsman is expanding in multiple areas, but ulti mately, they are trying to maintain their identity and what made them so popular. The menu changes will scale back the sandwiches to make way for more small plates, salads, sharables, etc. Look for more large-format items to share at the table, as well. “We don’t want to make the menu very large and are more focused on quality and execution … no Cheesecake Factory here,” he jokes.

Schmidt is excited about the massive bar program for bartenders to prepare craft cocktails, pour some great wines and of course beer. The tap system will feature 16 rotating brews — at least half of which are produced on-site.

Craftsman plans on hosting live music on the patio and hopes to outfit a stage at some point. “The ambiance will be Craftsman elevated,” Schmidt explains. “We are striving for the same sense of community and lively atmo sphere with awesome tunes, a bumping kitchen and lots of friends!”

Like many renovations, the team put ting together the new space came across some speed bumps but held their vision for the redesign. Schmidt believes that, despite the headaches, they had some really amazing contractors, subs and de signers that pulled through to help them get to the finish line. He shares, “There have been a ton of hiccups, but I feel there are always during these projects.”

Design flaws, equipment delays, value engineering debates and misses from all angles are the usual setbacks with undergoing a project this big. “I’ve had many restless nights debating my life choices, and at the end of the day, it’s very hard to build and open restaurants, but I love it. Craftsman is going to be absolutely amazing,” he adds.

Schmidt finds that cooking and oper ating restaurants is what he and his team love to do. “It’s what we are good at, and I’m ready to start hosting our community at our new space.” +

PHOTOS BY SUSI THURMAN AND DONOVON SORNIG

Chef + owner, Chris Schmidt

Chasing Rabbits Opens in Vail Village

ENTERTAINMENT IN THE Valley is getting a bounce in its step thanks to Vail-based Solaris Group and interna tional design firm Rockwell Group. The project has transformed one of Solaris Plaza’s largest venues into Chasing Rabbits — an experiential dining and entertainment space created to delight and intrigue a new generation of Vail’s guests and residents.

Similar to how Alice experienced Wonderland, Chasing Rabbits guests will be intrigued by the venue's unexpected twists and turns. In fact, chasing rabbits means “doing something totally irrele vant or being distracted from what you intend to do.”

The unique entertainment venue in the heart of Vail Village is about 12,000 square-feet and has something for every one — families, adults, locals and tourists alike. The playful space will offer five

individualized experiences under one roof, including Chasing Rabbits restau rant, serving modern Mediterranean cuisine, along with Film House cinema, The Library cocktail lounge, Moon Rabbit speakeasy and Rabbit Hole arcade.

The spaces can be used to host all events from social to corporate, in a unique, interactive setting. Chasing Rabbits will offer a new center for art and culture, including live music shows, comedy and film.

When the lifts are down, the lights are on at Chasing Rabbits. + Reservations

Moon Rabbit and Rabbit Hole operate on a first-come, first-served basis with a waitlist as it reaches capacity.

Follow @chasingrabbitsvail to keep up to date with current programming and events.

Seagull’s Cycles

Supporting the Valley’s Cycling Culture in Every Season

By Lucie Hanes

You’re just as likely to find Kyle Foster out leading a ride as you would behind a desk at Eagle’s newest bike shop, Seagull’s Cycles. In fact, he’d say that those rides are where the real work happens. While the shop has a physi cal address right off of Grand Avenue, Foster’s vision extends far beyond the building itself.

Inside those four walls, Foster operates a bike shop focused on repairs, consignment and education. Rather than stock and sell racks of brand-new, ready-made bikes, Foster aims to attract a different kind of customer: the person who considers their bike an extension of themselves. He teaches cyclists how to personally care for their bikes, so that they can strengthen the bond between ride and rider and enjoy their experience on the bike even more because of that connection.

Cycling in any form isn’t a cheap sport,

either. Consignment gear breaks down barriers to entry by making high-quality equipment more affordable and ap proachable for those that don’t have a high budget or aren’t yet well-versed in the bike industry. New riders can access reliable bikes without the astronomical price tag. Every consignment sale helps to change the narrative around what it means to be a cyclist.

Foster’s focus is also a way for him to work more with people than with equipment alone. “Instead of having a brand or a style define my shop,” Foster describes, “I want my relationships with clients to do that.” He doesn’t worry about teaching himself out of a job; the complex nature of bikes means there’s always more to learn for next time and plenty of bigger jobs better suited for a shop atmosphere than a personal garage.

Besides, interaction with others is what Foster’s really after. The desire to bond

over mutual gratitude for time on the bike drives every decision behind Seagull’s Cycles. No matter how much good Foster does for cyclists inside the shop, that work pales in comparison to the community he’s created outside its doors.

Through Seagull’s Cycles, Foster leads a handful of regular group rides to demon strate the power a bike can have over a fractured life. He started out with weekly Recovery Rides on Sundays to support those in recovery from substance abuse.

“If you think about it,” Foster notes, “most group rides end with beers at the shop. That’s the classic way to wrap up a ride. I wanted to put another option out there for people to feel comfortable at all stages of the ride: before, during and after.”

While the ride originally targeted substance abuse sufferers specifically, Foster found that the concept speaks to anyone working through a wide range of mental health struggles. The rides serve as an opportunity for participants to put their troubles aside, while also filling that empty space with actionable tactics and reliable connections that pave the way for a different future.

“So many athletes use riding for escap ism already,” Foster understands. “But, combine that with real skills, and you can use that time to actually heal, too.”

Foster has expanded on the Recovery Rides to add other opportunities for com munity engagement into the rotation, as well. During cycling season, he works with Eagle Valley Behavioral Health to put on Spoke and Stoke, a program aimed at get ting teen riders out on the trails to show them how mountain biking can be used as a healthy coping mechanism throughout such a tumultuous phase of life. He’s also joined forces with Mountain Youth to launch Move, Chat, Ride: a series of events that combine discussions on mental health hurdles with family rides, where the goal is to use the ride as a catalyst to put these delicate subjects on the table. Partnerships with The Cycle Effect then focus on wel coming young female riders into the fold.

These youth and family-oriented rides hold special value for Foster. He wants to instill love for, and trust in, the bike from an early age, so that young riders can have cycling as a tool in their back

PHOTO COURTESY OF KYLE FOSTER

pocket as they grow up. Aligning rides with conversations about the difficulties they face on a daily basis helps normalize airing out your mind, leaning on others and building up a bank of resources. “If kids see us talking about these things out in the open, without hesitation, that will make it easier for them to do the same,” he explains. “It sets them down a more sustainable path from the very beginning.”

On top of the regular agenda that includes supporting Vail Valley Mountain Bike Club’s Wednesday evening rides starting late-spring, Foster hosts larger events throughout the year. Seagull’s Send, a collaboration with Speak Up Reach Out, honors Jonathan Sharon — Foster’s good friend and one of the original brains behind the Recovery Rides — with a midsummer mountain bike ride and after-party at the shop.

Foster’s stacked list of community projects makes Seagull’s Cycles equal parts societal fixture and brick-and-mor tar shop. After nearly burning out on the

bike industry after more than 15 years of working in shops where there might as well have been an ocean separating customer and mechanic, Foster prioritiz es meaningful connection. “Everyone’s been to a bike shop where it felt like the person behind the counter didn’t want to be there at all,” remarks Foster. “My shop was never going to be that. I want to be involved in the scene the way that others weren’t when we needed them to be.”

During cold winter months, Foster continues to keep engagement high. Group rides slow down in frequency, shift to warmer times of day and shift to snow-friendly alternatives, but they won’t go into hibernation. Foster hopes to offer ski tuning services in addition to regular bike work and embraces the snow through fat biking season. As a rider himself, he loves the chance to get out all year long and the way fat biking mixes things up. “It’s a total ly different experience from regular riding,” Foster points out. “Just like on

skis, snow’s not just snow; there’s good snow, bad snow, changes in terrain … Every ride is different.”

And from a professional standpoint, fat bikes still bring in plenty of business throughout the winter. “Those babies need a lot of love,” Foster says with a chuckle. “The elements are really hard on them. I’ll be busy.”

To keep him even busier, visit Seagull’s Cycles at 422 McIntire Street in Eagle. Find a new-to-you trail companion from his consignment collection, tune up your fat bike before the snow dumps, give your mountain bike a little off-season attention or even learn how to take matters into your own hands in between serious repairs.

Foster doesn’t believe in bike shop secrets. He’ll teach you what you need to know and get you where you need to go without letting ego get in the way. At the end of the day, he just wants to help people heal and grow the best way he knows how: out on two wheels in the fresh mountain air. +

BY TOWNSEND BESSENT

By Clare J. Hefferren

PHOTO

The remote work evolution is a menagerie of personal ities and professions which allow for each individual to choose the benefits that best serve them. Some anchor in community and climate, others in convenience. The glamorized story of an amenity migrant yearning for a slower-paced life (pre viously unimaginable) close to nature is a new norm of emboldened remote work. Within the Valley, we find the local-gone-remote, nomadic vacationer, second homeowner COVID-convert, remote-by-design staffer and the con venient commuter.

A Future of Work report by UpWork predicts that 22% of Americans will be come remote workers by 2025 — an 87% increase from pre-pandemic levels.

Expected challenges and unexpect ed benefits come with the modern workforce. Mountain towns can feel incumbent on tourism and real es tate; whereas, remote workers bring decentralized industries to overlooked markets. As we strive for solutions to dial a collective win, we take a lens to how remote workers plug in.

Jeremy Slade, developer at Inntopia, headquartered in Vermont, previous ly worked at a brick and mortar until COVID forced a lease termination. When leadership chose to go fully remote, Jeremy transitioned to carpooling with his family from nearby Ski Cooper during the school year. With the more flexible schedule, he drops his wife in Edwards and kids at Stone Creek, then settles in at Basecamp Executive Suites in Avon. The transition allows him to design his days around family.

Craig Bettis, director of develop ment for Sigma Coaching, is remote by design. As a former Commander of Vail Police Department, being a remote worker at GravityHaus’ StarterHaus is a foreign concept. “I was a time clock puncher. My home base and commu nity existed within the structure walls. It’s weird after being told where to be for 22 years,” he shares.

Ground yourself in remote work beyond the benefit of reliable Wi-Fi and good coffee.

ENCOURAGING INNOVATION TO OPEN THE MIND

Strike up a conversation. For Bettis, a simple hello translated into a local nonprofit meeting with which they now partner. In a community where relationships are often based on shared outdoor pursuits, a coworking space provides a novel area to comingle life style and work passions. “I see the op portunity to connect with people I’ve known for years, yet have never been able to talk about the role of what I do,” he says. With staff who lovingly invest in members, you have a double dose of exposure potential.

Inside: Create a creative sharing culture. Spearhead a member monthly master mind to access the 1+1 = 3 concept, which is about synergy as a cooperative action (jointly). When two individuals work toward a common goal, they are able to create a result which would not have been possible as an individual.

Community: Attend a town council meet ing. Join as a community member at the Vail Valley Partnership.

GIVE FOR THE BETTER GOOD

You have a sweet remote life. Create a community win, too. We have 152 Vail Valley nonprofits. Be a math tutor with Vail Valley Foundation’s YouthPower365. Join volunteer trail maintenance days with Vail Valley Mountain Trails Associ ation. Regardless, align your company values, then ask your leadership for a local donation.

The Vail Valley is also rich with entrepreneurial businesses looking for out-of-the-box advisors. Start by contacting the Vail Valley Partnership for connection assistance.

AVOIDING ISOLATION TO BLAST BURNOUT

Looking at personality types gives insight into isolation and engagement. The devel oper doesn’t require much face time and is content to check in and dive in. The cre ative craves and actively seeks to connect with fellow members. All are aware of the importance of managing one's time.

Basecamp

Incorporating my true mission feels like freedom. Finding the time for selfefficacy layered with work productivity and family time is walking my walk.

CRAIG BETTIS

Stressful travel can be a struggle when out of one’s element. Fortunate to be trained for efficiency, Bettis’ three days per week at StarterHaus are dialed. Wrapping up his day, he books tomor row’s gym class, schedules sauna and school pickup, then maximizes the time between. Despite having a home office, he prefers working at Gravity Haus. “Incorporating my true mission feels like freedom. Finding the time for self-effi cacy layered with work productivity and family time is walking my walk.”

Inside: Set office hours. Book a pod for quiet. Regulate a tech-free lunch area.

Community: Allow for a powder day 6-inch rule and schedule aprés hiking buddies.

SYNC UP SUSTAINABILITY

Remote work affords alignment with sustainability goals as well.

Inside: Lower your footprint through

shared utilities and technology.

Community: Opt-in to Vail’s compost program and bike share.

FINANCIALLY

Slade is fortunate to be reimbursed for his Basecamp membership. Bettis works to put skin in the game of affording membership. “As I sit in StarterHaus, I know I earned this moment. It comes at a cost: my wellness,” he explains.

Inside: Merge your gym, local coffee shop and coworking space to save.

Community: Save on rent with a smaller unit. Contribute to the local economy.

Color your alpine palette with neurological inspiration and outdoor adventures through the remote life. Soak in the regulars and get curious with guests. You never know where the conversation may lead. +

StarterHaus

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAVITY HAUS; PHOTO COURTESY OF CRAIG BETTIS

Ayurvedic Wellness Tips for Winter

+ Spring in the Valley

By Julia Clarke

It’s no secret that the influence of the seasons has repercussions for your health; colds and flu tend to run rampant as winter progresses whilst spring, for many, marks the onset of pesky allergies, and summer’s warm weather often provides a welcome reprieve from illness altogether. Your physiology is constantly adapting to the changes in temperature, precipita tion, food availability, sun exposure and activity level that characterize the cycle of the year.

The time-tested medical tradition of Ayurveda, often called yoga’s holistic sister science, has placed special impor tance on the influence of seasonality on your health and well-being for thousands of years. In response, it outlines specific, practical, seasonal routines (ritucharya) to help you stay balanced and healthy 12 months a year.

To understand how these seasonal routines can benefit you, it’s helpful to appreciate two fundamentals of Ayurve da. First, the principle that like increases like. For instance, the cold, dry winds that turn the aspen leaves crunchy and blow them to the ground in the fall also provoke dryness in your physiology, resulting in dry skin, constipation and depletion. Second, we can restore bal ance with opposites, such as using oil to soothe dry skin.

When it comes to living in the Valley, our long cold season, which usually shows up in November and stubbornly sticks around until May, is arguably the most impactful for your health. Ayurveda divides this period up into two seasons: Shishira ritu (late winter), characterized by increased cold and dryness, and vasanta ritu (spring), characterized by liquefaction, which in our case means snowmelt and thawing ground.

Because these two seasons are mark edly different — the first is dry and cold while the second is heavy and moist — they have practically contrasting effects on your physiology, and therefore require two distinct approaches to daily living.

SEASONAL RHYTHM for January to Mid-March

During these coldest months, heat tends to become trapped in your body, enabling a stronger digestive fire, which helps you to consume the heavier, fatty foods you need for wel come fuel during our busy season.

+ Nourish with warm, well-spiced stews and soups, root veg etables, organic dairy, whole grains and good quality oils. Eat well with regular meals, and eat to satiety.

+ Self-massage with warm sesame oil over your entire body in the morning or before bed, followed by a show er, or take advantage of the Valley’s many spa services for a little extra pampering.

+ Stay toasty by bundling up in extra layers to avoid cold drafts down your neck; wrap up in a soft wool blanket from Hygge Life when you’re at home and enjoy hot baths, hot tubs and saunas when you can.

+ Rest to avoid depletion with earlier bedtimes (by 10:30 p.m.) and regular relaxation practices such as restorative yoga, yin yoga, yoga nidra and meditation.

+ Avoid light, dry, cold foods like salads, processed foods and crunchy snacks as well as overexposure to cold; carry a thermos with hot water, tea or hot chocolate with you on the mountain.

SEASONAL RHYTHM for Mid-March through May

The thawing of winter may be mirrored by excessive mucus in the body accompanied by a sensation of physical and emotional heaviness that are best balanced with an overall approach of lightening up and getting moving.

+ Cleanse by removing alcohol, processed foods and sugar from your diet for one to three weeks and focusing on whole foods rich in antioxidants, such as fresh fruits and stir-fried vegetables.

+ Awaken earlier now that the sun is peeking over the Gore Range more promptly; set your alarm to rouse you at sunrise or even a little earlier, so you can watch the sun come up.

+ Exercise regularly to shake off that heavy feeling and move lymph to protect you against seasonal colds and allergies; enjoy more vigorous yoga, snowshoeing and spin classes to get your heart rate up.

+ Dry massage instead of oil massage, using a soft, stimulat ing body brush over your skin while standing in the shower; you can apply oil or lotion after your shower if this leaves you feeling dry.

+ Avoid heavy, oily foods, excessive sweets and naps.

Holistic Wellness for Your Pet

By Laura Lieff Dr. Christine Koelker of Animal Camp Chiropractic

Christine Koelker, D.C. has devoted her life to animals. Bringing a decade of profes sional experience, Koelker is an IVCA certified animal chiropractor who provides comprehensive and com passionate care and bodywork for pets through her Edwards-based business, Animal Camp Chiropractic.

“I don’t recall a time when I didn’t want to work with animals,” says Koelker. “I grew up with cats and dogs, and I remember people calling my sister to babysit their kids and contacting me to look after their pets.”

In college, she initially wanted to be a veterinarian but realized she did not want life-threatening emergencies to be part of her career. Instead, she pursued advertis ing, which took her all over North America. During that time, Koelker sustained an injury that led to meeting a chiropractor who helped her get stronger and healthier

than she was prior to the injury.

“That experience sparked my interest in medicine again, and I realized that I wanted to focus on a holistic approach to main taining a preventative lifestyle,” Koelker explains. “That doctor taught me how to take care of my body and prevent injury, and I wanted to do the same for others.”

Koelker went back to school (she al ready had a Bachelor of Arts in commu nication advertising from Michigan State) to earn her Doctorate of Chiropractic at Logan University, as well as her Master’s in clinical nutrition and human perfor mance. Although Koelker initially went to chiropractic school to treat humans, while she was there, she learned about getting certified for animals and decided to earn her post-graduate certificate in animal chiropractic.

ANIMALS NEED CHIROPRACTORS, TOO

While Eagle County is extremely dog-friendly, Koelker has found that not everyone is aware that animal chiro practors exist. She explains that equine chiropractic is a much more well-known practice, because horses have partic ipated in competitive sporting events for a long time. Conversely, competitive canine events have recently become popular and, therefore, so has chiro practic care for them. She also feels that because dogs are now treated more like family members, pet owners are prioritiz ing their healthcare.

“I’ve seen a lot of growth within the pet industry over the last 10 years,” Koelker explains. “It’s become a bil lion-dollar business, and pet owners are more interested in holistic ways of taking care of their animals.”

Although Koelker has witnessed an undeniable change in pet care over the last few years, she also encounters skeptics.

“I understand the skepticism for those who have never experienced chiropractic care before,” she says. “But, they bring their dogs in because of a referral from a vet or friend, and the treatment speaks for itself. People are now more open-minded regarding preventative techniques and are more interested in wellness.”

HOUSE CALLS FOR LOCALS

+ TOURISTS

In addition to wellness, the mobile aspect of Koelker’s business sets Animal Camp Chiropractic apart, because her services are available and accessible for locals and tourists throughout the Vail and Roaring Fork Valleys. She offers house calls to all her clients, which, she has found, benefits everyone, because it allows her to provide more thorough treatment and assessment.

“Dog parents appreciate the conve nience, and I get a better a perspective on what’s happening at home — for example, wood floors and/or stairs — and then the dog can take a nap after treatment, rather than climbing in and out of a vehicle,” she says. “When I see where a pet is living, I can also make suggestions regarding ad justing the dog’s home environment.”

As for visitors, Koelker has found that sometimes people bring their dogs to Colorado and don’t consider the effects the altitude and terrain might

have on their pets.

“Dogs can be like their parents; they get excited and push their outdoor activities too hard in the mountains,” she explains. “I can do in-room treatments at pet-friendly hotels, which allows dogs to have an equally enjoyable vacation as their parents.”

“10 years ago, no one was doing chi ropractic care on dogs, so I was the odd ball,” Koelker says. “I wanted to normalize it, and now there are other practitioners and vets who have gotten certified.”

Going forward, Koelker is excited to expand her business and continue to introduce clients to the art and science of animal chiropractic care.

“I followed my passion for animals, which is what drove me to make my practice exclusive to them,” she adds. “I get so much joy out of working with an imals that it made sense for me to focus on their care.” + animalcampchiro.com.

WHAT IT ALL ENTAILS

Animal Camp Chiropractic’s wellness treatments include:

+ Bodywork releasing soft tissue tension, trigger point release and stretching

+ Adjustment focusing on and working the joints

+ Canine cranio-sacral therapy a gentle hands-on technique that releases tension in the central nervous system, which helps reduce pain, relieve dysfunction and improve overall well-being

The Four-Legged Ski Patroller Avalanche Dogs of the Vail Valley

There’s nothing quite like reach ing the top of the lift and see ing a happy dog in a red vest. A combination of pure joy and a sense of safety fill you up. Not only do these dogs provide a feeling of comfort on the mountain, but they also are highly skilled and possess an immeasurable amount of training.

living to 15 years old, Henry filled his days with short walks and long naps. He sadly passed away in the fall of 2022, but Henry will always reign supreme as the first-ever Vail Mountain Avalanche Dog.

By Laura Mills

The Vail Avalanche Dog program has been in existence since about 2008. Chris Reeder, who is currently director of Ski Patrol at Vail, created the program back in the early 2000s with his avalanche dog, Henry. That program now spans across Vail and Beaver Creek, connecting eager handlers with their canine companions. Currently, Reeder is managing the dayto-day logistics of running a dog program: scheduling training days, shifting staff around to fill the place of handlers who may have to step away from their duties to attend training classes and coordinating the program as a whole. After retiring and

Training a dog from puppyhood is not a simple feat, especially when the dog is required to carry out a specific task in the end. When it comes to selecting the dog for the task, Vail and Beaver Creek seek out Golden Retrievers and Labra dors with strong bloodlines, particularly for their well-bred genetics and natural drive to search, retrieve and please.

“There’s lots of breeds that can do the avalanche rescue job well, but labs and goldens also do the public service job especially well,” explains Reeder. Vail SAR dogs work on the mountain to perform rescue tasks as needed, but a huge part of their job is connecting to the com munity, too. Whether that be greeting guests in common areas or going into local schools to educate students on ava

lanche and snow safety, the dogs have to be well-rounded and approachable.

“I feel like the dog introduces people to not only what they’re doing but to what we’re doing, as well,” adds Toby Harrison, first-year handler at Bea ver Creek. “We get to talk about our avalanche mitigation, our training and the responsibilities people don’t think about. She’s a good ambassador, and it opens the conversation to talk to people about how we keep everyone safe.” Harrison’s dog-in-training is Ruby, the lanky, adorable, black lab with a fantastic temperament and a drive to please, all the makings of a solid avalanche dog.

Vail and Beaver Creek supply their handlers with a multitude of training re sources. “We try to expose the handlers to as much trainer variety as possible, so they can pick and choose what works in our environment here,” states Reed er. Each season, dogs and their human counterparts travel to seminars around the country, and sometimes into Canada, to learn from the best. For dogs to be of ficially validated, they have to meet and pass the standards set by Colorado Rapid Avalanche Deployment (CRAD).

“Our goal is to have three validated dogs at any time on the staff. There are typically two pups that are work ing towards their validation, and then we usually have a couple dogs that are already retired but are still coming to work two days a week,” explains Reeder. Dogs usually get validated around age two and retire around nine or ten. In the early stages of training, the focus is on exposure to the environment, enjoying puppyhood and general obedience.

“Right now, we’re keeping things fun and inviting. Continuing to build and boost their drive. The early stages are a good time,” Gavin Mastell happily shares, with his rescue dog-in-training, Telli the golden, sitting in his lap. Mastell grew up with hunting dogs in Oklahoma and has loved the experience he’s built and will continue to build on patrol, especially with Telli. Mastell and Telli have a unique experience entering this season. Telli’s littermate, Moxie, is also training to be an avalanche dog at Vail with her handler, John Alfond. Alfond is an experienced handler heading

into his 15th season on ski patrol. When speaking with Reeder about the execution of the rescues, he brought up a crucial misconception that people make. When the trio of dog, handler and ava lanche tech are deployed to an avalanche site, they are often in search of a recovery, not a rescue. A myriad of emotions flow when a recovery is successful; the dog is ecstatic, because they’ve completed their task, and the rescuers involved are expe riencing emotions on the opposite end of the spectrum. Having a canine companion to assist in the mission is immeasurably valuable but adds its own set of in-themoment challenges.

“One of the things that is always kind of surreal on a rescue is when you’ve found someone, and the dog has done its job. You always have to make sure the dog is rewarded properly, regardless of how everyone’s feeling and what the

nature of the event is with those around you,” says Reeder. This speaks volumes to the challenges that come with being on ski patrol and a part of rescue teams. The job can be extremely rewarding and simultaneously heartbreaking. Reeder reminds us to have a plan A in the back country so that plan B, the rescue teams, don’t have to be deployed.

Behind every great avalanche dog is an even better handler who took the time to build the foundation and create a deep working bond with their four-legged companion. Whether the working dogs of Vail and Beaver Creek are greeting guests, making recoveries or anything in between, it’s important to acknowledge how much of an asset they are to the safety of our community. +

Follow @vail_avalanche_rescue_dogs on Instagram for more.

You always have to make sure the dog is rewarded properly, regardless of how everyone’s feeling and what the nature of the event is with those around you.

1. BLIZZARD HUSTLE 10

The Hustle collection is a unisex backcoun try line honoring those who work hard and live big in the mountains every single day. Woodcore delivers balanced flex and maneu verability by way of three different flex zones: softer in the tip and tail, medium just above and below the center, and stiff in the center. Carbon technology provides lightweight dampness and stability without compromising on playfulness. $799.95 blizzard-tecnica.com

2. DYNAFIT ULTRA REVO SUNGLASSES

The sporty shades are ultra-lightweight and offer ideal protection and ventilation for hard efforts, like uphill ski touring and snowshoe racing. Grippy temple tips and a rubber nose pad guarantee a secure hold without slipping, even during intense movement. $149.95 dynafit.com

3. EDDIE BAUER DOE BAY DUVET DOWN COAT

This extra cozy jacket is the ideal length for warmth and function. Its pockets are big enough to fit your necessities, and its lightweight fill keeps you warm without being cumbersome. If you're looking for a classic, long, down coat, this is our top pick for the season! $249 eddiebauer.com

4. RUFFWEAR POWDER HOUND JACKET

Keep your best furry friend warm and dry during Colorado’s coldest months with this weather-resistant, insulated jacket. This up dated version has even more warmth with an insulated belly panel and new sleeve design for more freedom of movement and comfort on the go. $99.95 ruffwear.com

5.

EDDIE BAUER GUIDE

PRO SMART HEATED GLOVES

Say farewell to frigid fingers with these gloves powered by clim8® intelligent heating technology that regulates warmth based on your body temperature and activity level. The waterproof gloves also excel in wet condi tions, and the leather shell allows for dexterity in cold conditions. $299 eddiebauer.com

6.

AVIATOR NATION UNISEX

TEDDY FLEECE

This may be the softest fleece you’ve ever felt. California-born Aviator Nation has a store in Vail Village, so roll in to check out this light weight half-zip that can be worn on its own or as a midlayer on the coldest winter days. $265 aviatornation.com

7.

ROLL RECOVERY R1 PERCUSSION

This compact device is powerful, exceptionally quiet and has over seven hours of battery life. Say goodbye to knots and post-workout sore ness with this hand-held massage gun. $129 rollrecovery.com

8. CHACO

FIELDS CHELSEA BOOT

Rely on these waterproof boots through the colder seasons of Colorado. The boots have notable tread and are tall enough to get you through a little mud, snow or water. They are stylish while being full of great arch support. As one of our gear testers Laura noted: “Cha co hit it out of the park with these.” $150 chacos.com

9.

DOMETIC PATROL 35

With its one-piece, rotomolded polyethylene shell, this cooler is rugged for the road and keeps food and drinks cold and ready for your après. The cooler also features a wrap-around freezer seal, leak-proof drain and a multi-use dock that boasts a cup holder and bottle opener. $229.99 dometic.com

10.

PATAGONIA SNOW ROLLER BAG

The powder highway is calling with this weather-defiant ski and snowboard bag made from leftover Patagonia Black Hole fabric scraps with fully encased roller wheels, mul tiple grab handles and plenty of small storage options. $299 patagonia.com

11.

KITSBOW DENIM ICON

Brought to us from a cycling company, this stylish button-down is made for mountain biking, but it’s ready to roll in all types of adventurous and leisurely outdoor activities. It’s four-way stretch with vented gussets, so you have plenty of room to go from work to play and back. $249 kitsbow.com

12. FOEHN SALEM DYNEEMA DOWN PARKA

The outer layer of Dyneema fabric makes for a lightweight and packable premium down parka. This piece holds up to alpine standards with an urban style that can go with you from Vail Village to New York City. $999.95 wearfoehn.com

1. PHANTOM GLIDE

This permanent, high-performance base treatment for skis and snowboards improves glide performance across a variety of snow conditions. $99.99 dpsskis.com

2. OTIS EYEWEAR TEST OF TIME

These shades have timeless style and highend features that last. The lenses are made with mineral glass that is created from natural elements like sand and soda ash. The glass is endlessly recyclable and has a high resistance to scratching. $230 us.otiseyewear.com

3. OUTDOOR RESEARCH HEMISPHERES II GORE-TEX JACKET + BIBS

Leave it to OR to bring the best technology for all the winter conditions that come your way on the slopes and in the backcountry. This kit features a fully seam-taped 3L GO RE-TEX C-Knit technology that is waterproof, soft and quiet. Stretch panels also allow for movement even if you’re layered up. Jacket $629; Bibs $629 outdoorresearch.com

4. ZEAL OPTICS HANGFIRE

The sleek, rimless design of these goggles of fers a wide peripheral field of view along with helmet compatibility. The optical technology of a spherical lens mimics the eye’s shape to minimize distortion, so what you see is what you get when you’re in all types of light on the slopes. $199-$249 zealoptics.com

5. MAMMUT SNOW HEADBAND

This thermal, knitted headband with fleece lining is made with love by a small family business in Germany. It’s stylish, comfortable and warm for all your winter adventures and après. $35 mammut.com

6. PATAGONIA PEAK MISSION TIGHTS

Cold-weather cardio is a reality for many of the Valley’s winter months, and these running tights will keep you cozy while wicking away moisture once you do start to warm up. $219 patagonia.com

7. MAMMUT AENERGY ST 32

This women’s-specific ski pack has shoul der straps, a hip belt and back dimensions tailored specifically for the female body. It’s lightweight but still offers spacious compart ments for all your backcountry and ski touring essentials. $169.95 mammut.com

8.

IBEX WOOL AIRE

Winter warmth starts with the right insula tion, and Ibex has perfected this piece to be a staple for backcountry skiing and snowshoe ing. Lofted merino insulation fends off cold temps; while breathable, water-resistant nylon keeps you dry and releases heat when you’re on the move. Unlike down and synthetic filled puffy jackets, merino insulation won't lose loft if it gets wet, and it doesn't break down over time. $285 ibex.com

9. THIRTYTWO MTB BOA SNOWBOARD BOOTS

For the Valley’s splitboarding crowd, these boots transition from walk to ride quickly and easily with the redesigned dual BOA layout. These snowboard boots are ideal if you’re looking for comfort and performance on the front side and in the backcountry. $699.99 thirtytwo.com

10.

MELIN PACE HYDRO

If you haven’t tried a Melin hat yet, don’t wait. The Pace is their first design that is specif ically for running, featuring an innovative seven-panel style. The Pace is lightweight and machine washable, so don’t be shy to wear it and sweat in it! $69 melin.com

11. AMUNDSEN SPORTS HEROES WOOL FLEECE

Sherpa wool fleece on this piece is natural and undyed, meaning the hue comes from a mix of sheep wool. This pullover is ultra-cozy, and the waxed linen and cotton chest pocket makes for a perfect place to hold essentials. $269 amundsensports.com

12. WILD RYE OLIVIA ONSIE BASE LAYER

This well-known women’s mountain bike brand is coming into winter hot with this head-to-toe merino base layer that offers warmth and temperature regulation. And, what we love the most: the butt zip allows for quick and easy access when you have to go. $229 wild-rye.com

13.

MSR LIGHTNING TRAIL SNOWSHOES

Now with updated Paraglide bindings, these staple snowshoes by MSR perform all day as a comfortable, quiet and lightweight option that are easy to use. The pressure point-free stretch mesh securely hugs your feet and is compatible with nearly any footwear. $239.95 msrgear.com

For Lil’ Rippers

Winter + Spring

Mountain kids love being outside, even in questionable weather. Gear them up to keep them as warm and dry as possible. Here are some tested favorites from a mountainloving, adventure-focused family.

Compiled by Cameron Martindell

1. HYDRO FLASK 20 OZ KIDS WIDE MOUTH BOTTLE

When your kids start asking you to refill their 12-ounce bottle All. The. Time! It’s time to upgrade them to the 20-ounce version. All of Hydro Flask’s Wide Mouth bottles use com patible tops, including the new Widemouth Flex Straw Cap, which allows the flex handle to be swapped out for different colors. This is great for making the bottle as unique as possi ble to recognize it amongst all others. $38 hydroflask.com

2. HOOTIE HOO KID’S TIPTOP 3L KIT

This fun, new brand is making high quality protective layers, so kids can stay out longer. The Tiptop 3L kit is their most waterproof and durable set for kids looking to spend a lot of time out in the snow — even in stormy condi tions. These items have all the extras, just like adult shells, with a forearm ski pass pocket, snow skirt, venting zips, internal mesh pocket, quick stash pockets, reflective elements and more. $175 (bib) & $185 (jacket) hootiehoo.com

3. MUCK BOOT KID’S ELEMENT

This fully waterproof and fleece lined boot uses 5 mm neoprene to keep little toes warm while playing out in the cold, wet and snow. The Cool Weather Lining provides a soft in terior, and the lightweight EVA midsole gives support along with a rubber cup outsole for excellent traction. bioDEWIX Footbed Insert Topcover with NZYM for Odor Control and Moisture Management Comfort Range: -20°F to 50°F / -30°C to 10°C. $100 muckbootcompany.com

4. SWEET PROTECTION RIPLEY JUNIOR GOGGLE

With a minimal frame for small faces, these goggles maximize the field of vision for shred ders between the ages of 3- and 12-years-old. It pairs perfectly with the Winder Jr. helmet to avoid any gaps, keeping kiddos safe and warm. The frame around the lens was specif ically designed to protect the lens even when laid lens-down on a table during breaks in the lodge. The cylindrical lens uses the same technologies as in the adult versions. $90 sweetprotection.com

5. TENTREE KID’S TREEFLEECE CREW + SWEATPANT

Snuggles are always great, but when your snuggle bug is wrapped in super soft and en vironmentally sustainable materials, that feels really good, too. Made with 55% organic cot ton, 26% recycled polyester and 19% tencel lyocell, these layers are soft and durable. The crew has a ribbed collar, cuffs and hem band, while the sweatpant has forgiving, elasticated waist and cuffs. $35 + $30 tentree.com

6. SWEET PROTECTION WINDER MIPS HELMET JR.

This brand-new helmet is lightweight and ide al for cruising groomers and hitting the terrain park. The youth-specific shell size is especially engineered for smaller and more elastic heads

with relatively higher volume. The fleece liner is comfortable and easy to remove and wash. The moisture-wicking liner inside is comfort able, easy to remove and wash with adjust able, turn dial, removable earpads. $130 sweetprotection.com

7.

ROCOS IDEA UP + FREE ADJUSTABLE SKI BOOTS

Kids grow fast! To avoid buying a new ski boot mid-season, these boots can expand up to three sizes. A small key is used to lengthen the boot and a patented, accordion style, ex pandable liner moves with the boot. Available in three models spanning from 16 to 25.5 Mondo. $110-$160 roces.com

8. HELLY HANSEN GRAPHIC LIFA MERINO SET

The Lifa technology wicks away moisture, while the merino wool works its natural ther mal regulation magic balance of breathability and heat retention. These cozy layers are great for any cold or wet weather activities, and with reinforced fabric on the knees, they’re perfect for the in-lodge or condo apres-ski play in front of the fire. $80 hellyhansen.com

9.

FARM TO FEET WAITSFIELD 2.0 SKI SOCKS

These ski socks are high-quality with 200-needle construction using soft and comfortable 19.5 micron wool. The Waitsfield 2.0 has targeted padding in the shin to keep charging groms comfortable in their boots for longer. $23 farmtofeet.com

10. KOMPERDELL FREE TOURING JUNIOR POLES

Kids can hike, and kids can ski — ergo, kids can go ski touring! Komperdell released their first Junior ski touring poles this year, and they are perfect. They are adjustable from 105-120 cm and feature an extended grip zone over sturdy 7075-T6 aluminum with their Powerlock 3.0 slide adjustment lock. The poles include the ultralight Vario basket and tungsten/carbide flex tips. $120 komperdell.com

11. DYNAFIT YOUNGSTAR SKI TOURING SET

Any families looking at a hut trip this winter or spring should consider this kids’ Alpine Tour ing set. With boot sizes starting as small as 21.5 Mondo and skis as short as 120 mm, this set targets the 7- or 8-year-olds and older. The kit comes complete with skins. $700 dynafit.com

12. FLYLOW MIGHTY UNICORN MITT

Made in-part from upcycled materials from production scraps in the Flylow factory, this eco-minded mitt is well insulated and prime for kids who have their hands in the snow all day long. It's 10k/10k waterproof and has 220g back of hand synthetic insulation with 100g palm spaceloft insulation. | $55 flylowgear.com

Top 3 Winter Hikes

In + Around Eagle River Valley

By Julia Clarke

1.

SHRINE RIDGE TRAIL

Starting at the eastern end of the Valley, Vail Pass is a high-altitude playground for winter sports and will deliver hands down the best views of the surrounding mountains. Shrine Pass was originally a Ute Indian trail until it was taken over by silver miners, and the Shrine Ridge Trail, one of the most popular hikes in the Sawatch Range, delivers all the gifts of a high alpine hike without much climbing at all. Because this hike is a little more remote, it’s a good one to pack a picnic for.

Take exit 190 from I-70, and pay the small day use fee at one of the fee stations in the parking lot. Begin on the well-signposted Shrine Pass Road, and at the first switchback, join the snowshoe track and head up for about two miles to reach Shrine Pass. From here, look out for the trailhead on the left to join the trail to Jay’s, Chuck’s and Walter’s cabins, which together make up Shrine Moun tain Inn. From the cabins, the trail then

winds through the forest to Shrine Ridge, with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Holy Cross. Retrace your footsteps to return to the parking lot.

2.

WEST GROUSE CREEK LOOP

Minturn’s Meadow Mountain is a favor ite amongst locals, but its popularity with snowmobilers can make it a little less tranquil for those adventuring on foot. Just a little further down Highway 24, however, you’ll find the Grouse Creek trailhead on the right, and from here, West Grouse Creek loop gets you away from the hum of snowmobiles and into dense, peaceful forest.

Pick up the trail from the trailhead, and go straight at the first junction. At the second signposted junction, bear right to stay on the West Grouse trail, and after about 1.5 miles, you’ll come across an old, unsigned logging road. You can turn back here or take a right onto this road and fol

low it along the hillside to the retired ski slopes of Meadow Mountain and splendid views of the Gore Range. To complete the loop, head down the ridge keeping the valley you just ascended on your right, and when the trail begins to flatten out, you’ll see a signpost on the right to return to Grouse Creek via a wooden footbridge. Follow the trail back to your car, and head into Minturn to warm up over a hot meal and a cold brew.

3. PAULIE’S PLUNGE/STONE CREEK

Over in Eagle-Vail, Paulie’s Plunge/Stone Creek is popular with both snowshoers heading uphill and skiers and snow boarders leaving Beaver Creek for some backcountry chutes. This 2.2-mile trail begins with some gentle walking before serving up some more strenuous uphill terrain as you wind through quiet alpine forest and aspen groves along a babbling brook from Eagle-Vail all the way to the resort. Though it doesn’t provide the same wide-open vistas as the other hikes here, you’ll get a real feel of seclusion in a lovely forest setting without having to travel very far at all.

From 70, take the Walmart exit and turn left on Highway 6. Turn right on Ea gle Drive, and follow the winding road uphill to the small parking area at the cul de sac. The first mile is delightfully flat, and the snow will be well packed down. At the fork, go left (the route to the right heads down to the golf course, so take a moment to gather your bear ings here for your return journey), and you will cross the creek and now start climbing — keep your eyes and ears open for skiers leaving the resort. The snow here is often untouched, and you will climb steadily through deep forest before emerging onto a ski run on Bea ver Creek after a couple of miles. Return the same way you came, and then you have your pick of lunch spots between Eagle-Vail, Minturn, Avon and Beaver Creek to refuel. +

The Valley might be home to two world class ski resorts, but that doesn’t mean skiing is the only thing to do here once the snow arrives. Winter hiking in and around the Eagle River Valley gets you away from the bus tle of ski crowds and the stress of trying to find a parking spot and gives you an all-access pass to some of the best snow stashes in the rugged Rockies without having to fork out for a lift ticket. Grab your snowshoes or ice grips, and check out three of the best winter hikes in the Valley this season.

PHOTOS BY ADAM WEINBERGER AND JENNIFER WEINTRAUB

Step Up Your Grill Game Easy + Elevated Meal Ideas for a Blue Sky BBQ

By Jennifer Weintraub

The stoke is high in Blue Sky. On the far outer edge of Vail Mountain, Blue Sky Basin’s Belle’s Camp embraces the energetic atmosphere of a ski town emerging from a long, cold winter. On a sunny spring day, the grills are fired up and filled with food, while the lawn is packed with people playing frisbee, beer ski or wiffle ball.

It’s BYO food, beverages and lawn games in this beautiful destination located seven-miles back and up on Vail Mountain. So, why plan a boring lunch in an epic location? Adam Weinberg er, owner of Double Diamond Chefs, believes that a BBQ in Blue Sky is like nothing else in the world.

Weinberger is used to cooking his meals over an open fire. As a private ca terer and chef on luxury overnight horse back trips, he’s skilled at making great meals in unique destinations. When he’s off-duty, he’s either chasing deep snow to ski or cooking for a crowd. Grilling in Blue Sky Basin combines his two worlds and passions.

A meal is never a small affair with Weinberger. His favorite way to spend the day is serving up multiple courses with panoramic views. “The most im portant thing is to have the best-look ing food on the mountain,” he explains. Over the years, he’s made a ridiculous culinary scene at Blue Sky with steak Oscar sandwiches topped with crab

hollandaise, cheese fondue and grilled seafood such as scallops, whole fish and lobster.

So, what should you bring to Blue Sky if you’re looking to step up your grill game? He shares a few tips to ensure you are the envy of every table around you.

Once you arrive at Belle’s Camp and claim your spot, dig a hole in the snow to keep beverages cold. Then, it’s time to assemble your first course — char cuterie. After a few morning runs, your guests will appreciate a table full of snacks. A large charcuterie board filled with pre-cut cheeses, meats, crackers and dips can be assembled quickly and eaten immediately.

Moving onto the second course, grilled crostini is an easy appetizer with endless possibilities. Top sliced bread with any combination of cheese, meat and/or fruit you have on-hand. A few of Weinberger’s favorite combinations are ricotta, prosciutto and arugula or brie, pear and honey.

Grilling in Blue Sky is a group affair, usually planned around a birthday or when friends or family are in town, so the main course should be easy to feed to a crowd. One of Weinberger’s go-to menu items is an enormous steak sandwich that is then cut into portions. As a main course, it’s easy to cook and share while eliminating the need for individual utensils.

Grill space is limited, so a larger cut of meat such as a tri-tip or flank steak works well. Not only does it take up less space, but it’s less to worry about when there’s a party all around you.

Arrange sliced steak and toppings of your choice on a ciabatta loaf, prefera bly from Hovey & Harrison. Some of his past favorite sandwiches include steak topped with chimichurri, roasted pep pers and mozzarella or a classic Philly cheesesteak with onions, peppers and melted American cheese.

For a vegetarian sandwich or side dish, toss vegetables such as asparagus, broc colini or zucchini in a foil packet on the grill with olive oil and seasonings.

Everything tastes better outside, espe cially dessert. Cookies, brownies or other sweets can be packed in Tupperware, so they don’t get crushed while skiing. The Tupperware can then be used to take back leftovers (if there are any).

Preparing ahead of time is the key to pulling off such an elaborate affair. Slice cheese, cut vegetables and make dips and desserts the day before. Bring a large knife, cutting board, grilling tongs and olive oil. It’s a good idea to grab a frisbee for some lawn games and a small portable speaker to set the vibe.

A Blue Sky BBQ is an unforgettable lunch with unbeatable views. It’s worth the effort and planning to have an easy, yet elevated meal. So, what’s on your menu? +

Living Alongside the Lynx in Colorado’s High Country

By Cal Orlowski

There are many mythical crea tures that roam the wildlands of Eagle County, but Canada lynx may be the only real ani mals of lore that share this beautiful area with all of us. Lynx have a strong history in this county, and their presence here has had many ebbs and flows over the years. Legend has it that the last native Canada lynx was killed near Vail, and these animals were successfully re-in troduced to the state in the early 2000s with several documented individuals taking residence here. The controversial expansion into Blue Sky Basin at Vail was protested upon under the lens of encroachment into lynx habitat, and still, many believe the existence of these ma jestic animals is just fallacy. Contrary to this, Canada lynx do live in the area and have been coexisting with Eagle County residents for years.

Like many of us that reside in Eagle County, we came here for the expansive landscapes and the winter recreation that is provided by our bountiful public lands. The same ecosystems that provide for world-class skiing can also provide habitat for small mammals and their associated predators, and just as we use bigger skis to float in the deeper snow, lynx and their main prey source — snow shoe hare — have adaptations that allow

them to travel and survive in areas with a lot of snow. The paws of a Canada lynx are similar in size and surface area to a full-grown mountain lion, even though lynx are less than a quarter of the weight of their feline cousins, and this allows them to out-compete other predators in the winter environment, making them truly winter specialists. This is crucial to their survival and ability to success fully hunt snowshoe hare in the cold winter months. These cute little rodents provide the majority of the prey base for Canada lynx, but lynx are not their only predators in the deep forest. These animals are hunted both by ground and aerial based predators, so they thrive in forests that have a mature overstory of trees to protect them from above and a younger generation of trees that provide more horizontal cover from predators that hunt on the ground. These are often more old-growth forests dominated by Engelmann spruce and sub-alpine fir that are on higher elevation slopes that are primarily North-facing in aspect. These habitats are critical to the survival of these organisms but are also very attrac tive to other winter specialists that take the human form.

Just as lynx require these ecosystems to survive, we as winter enthusiasts also need deep snow and the solitude of the forests to feed our souls. Although not intentional, our presence and develop ment of the land can adversely affect these sensitive creatures by disturbing their hunting and mating patterns. This creates a challenge for us people who thrive in the winter environments as we attempt to explore the wild corners of the county. In order to strike a balance and maybe even to get a chance at seeing one of these magical creatures, consider your impacts to their habitat and attempt to minimize it, so that Can ada lynx can continue coexist with us in Eagle County. +

PHOTOS BY STEVE SUNDAY

Exploring the Depth of Familial Conflict

Applying Mediation Principles to Family Dynamics

By T.J. Voboril

The Vail Valley may be a dream scape, but its denizens and visitors are not immune to conflict, frictions that require smoothing so that attention can be paid to enjoying the Valley’s myriad natural and cultural benedictions. Mediation is one such method for guiding the resolu tion of disputes both local and global.

Mediation is a magical and misun derstood process, millenniums old yet primed for modernity. At its base, it is simply a means by which to resolve conflict using a neutral facilitator, the mediator that provides a voice of reason and imbues the warring parties with the power to control their own destinies.

Despite being mostly associated with the legal system, mediation is that sys tem’s antipode, a mechanism that brings people together and does not push them apart. In its common conception, media tion is a formal procedure, subject to the trappings of the serious: lawyers, suits, written agreements and the like.

However, mediation’s core principles are so fundamental that they inform conflict of any type, whether in the workplace, with friends or even with in a household or the vacation rental

in which the family has congregated. Identifying common ground and vindi cating the importance of communication, respect, cooperation and patience in our daily lives has the tendency to reduce the inflammation of quarrels or even avoid conflicts altogether.

It is the particular dynamics of the family that make resolution of such

conference room with a retired judge. Clans that end up in court may need mediation of a direr type but perhaps could have earlier applied its tenets and prevented the need for judicial intervention. Mediation is both a solu tion and a prophylactic, an adaptable method for the infinite needs of fami lies on the inevitable and ever-shifting spectrum between unhappy and happy.

internecine disputes so crucial. More so than in any other context, one can not persistently avoid interaction with one’s immediate kin, or at least, it is ex tremely challenging and distasteful to do so. A job can be quit, a pal ghosted, but skedaddling on your folks or kids is decidedly anathema to the values that this Valley holds dear.

Nor are a family’s routine struggles ripe for discussion in a fluorescent

The bedrock of mediation is the identification of common ground. When parties have differing perspectives, it helps for each to realize that their supposed enemy shares their interests or traumas. The empathy created thereby can smooth the accumulated frictions that brought the conflict to a head. In the intertwinements of family and the family-adjacent, there are myriad oppor tunities to make productive use of these shared experiences. Even if, and perhaps especially when, the collective’s history is not positive, it creates a camaraderie that sets the stage for resolution.

Almost all conflicts are caused by a breakdown in communication. Com ments may be misunderstood, brothers may refuse to speak with each other and discussions can be unnecessarily

The bedrock of mediation is the identification of common ground.

aggressive. To prevent these deleterious outcomes, it is important to establish an environment in which all family mem bers, whatever their age or spot on the real/perceived hierarchy, feel comfort able sharing their perspectives, bringing up hard truths or just venting their, ad mittedly, irrational thoughts. Agreement is both unnecessary and impossible; it is the existence of the dialogue that matters. Open discussion will remove the frequent problems associated with inaccurate assumptions.

Respect is a critical corollary to com munication. Often, this is perceived as a top-down admonition; kids need to honor their parents, regardless of the parents’ actions or omissions. But, respect must flow in all directions; even a four-year-old’s viewpoint is valid. Children are not only particularly sensitive but also amazingly insightful. Indeed, the youth of this Valley are awe-inspiring not only in their athletic feats, but in the maturity of their out

looks. By ignoring their inputs, it not only creates tension and resentment but also may gloss over a workable resolution. Making family members feel truly heard requires a deep dedication to listening. This includes eye contact, non-dismissive body language and a re cap of the conversation to confirm that the speaker was heard as intended. Conflict resolution is a team effort that inherently requires cooperation. Families are already pre-formed teams, sometimes more Bad News Bears than Bronx Bombers, but already predisposed toward understanding that success ful collective action requires shared goals and clearly-delineated, individual responsibilities. Families have the repeat experience with each other necessary to effectively identify ideal roles for all. But, care should be taken to not pigeonhole; just because your son can lift heavy ob jects does not mean that he cannot also be a sensitive caretaker.

Families, like the environment that

surrounds us, are perpetual institu tions, their lineages streaking across the time-space continuum. They there fore should understand the long view, the perspective that all will eventually pass and be lost to the vestiges of history. By promoting patience, families can recognize that what seems like an abomination in the current moment will be a mere blip in the rearview soon enough. This means giving your daugh ter space to work through her feelings; this means forgiving your dad when he is having a bad day; this means taking a deep, collective breath and revisiting a discussion at a more opportune time.

None of mediation’s principles stand ing alone can solve conflict. Combined to create a holistic approach to dispute resolution, they can be revelatory and transformative, creating epiphanies that consolidate the love that is at the heart of every family. Armed with this strength, families will be best prepared to savor the adventures that surely await. +

CHRISTINE RICE

North

Coast Originals in

Eagle

Christine Rice began her chef adventure in a small farming county in northeast Ohio. The local 4-H club helped launch her interest in photography and cooking. After studying commercial photography at Ohio University, she discovered her interest in food styling as a photographer through a partnership with the Kalman & Pabst studio in Cleveland and a workshop with Delores Custer in Portland. From there, she attended culinary school and moved out to the North Bay in California to work as a food stylist, photographer and social media manager for Phil Tessier and his team of chefs at Hestan Smart Cooking. When COVID hit, she intended to make her way back to Cleveland … then pit-stopped at her sister’s in Eagle and never left. Two years later, she’s now the chef herself at North Coast Originals: a casual dining hotspot for buddha bowl lunches, healthy grab-and-go snacks, gourmet hot dogs, beer and wine, and — in the near future — donuts. North Coast Originals is proudly kid-friendly and veganfriendly with plenty of glutenfree options.

Recipes for the Season

Roasted Carrot Salad

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

13 large carrots

¼ cup avocado oil

2 Tbsp (or more) Italian seasoning

3 cups quinoa, cooked

3 cups kale, removed from rib and cut into bite-sized pieces

Goat cheese, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Peel and dice carrots. Try to make them all the same size to roast evenly.

3. Toss the carrots in avocado oil and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy with the seasoning.

4. Roast carrots on a sheet tray. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer.

5. Turn carrots every 10 minutes until they are cooked to your liking. The darker they get, the more delicious they will be. That browning is the carrot caramelizing and creating a better flavor.

6. Cook quinoa according to directions. To get more flavor, use chicken or vegetable stock instead of water. And, I love adding a sprig of rosemary and thyme if you have it.

7. Tear kale into nice, bite-size pieces. Massage with avocado oil, salt and pepper. This will help soften the kale and develop the flavor.

8. You can cool the carrots and quinoa, or eat it warm — perfect for cooler weather. Tossing it all warm will help soften the kale more. But, you can keep them in the fridge for a week and eat cold. Either way is delicious!

9. Dress with a good herb lemon dressing, or keep it simple with oil and balsamic vinegar. With the herbs and flavors we infused into the ingredients, a nice light dressing will be perfect.

10. Sprinkle with goat cheese, if desired.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE RICE

Aprés Cafe

Restaurant spotlight

East Vail

By kim fuller

“ You can aprés anything.”

Wise words from Ahmad Almadhoun, owner and operator of Aprés Cafe, and we couldn’t agree more. Everyone knows aprés-ski, and how about aprés-snowshoe, aprésshop, aprés-work, aprés-play?

East Vail’s newest (and only) eatery is a true celebration of all the reasons to love mountain life, and the crew behind Aprés Café really knows what it means to be local.

Alongside co-owner and general manager Jennifer Lewis, Almadhoun has cooked up an all-star team of longtime Vail hospitality professionals. Both Lewis and Almadhoun, as well as Aprés’ bever age manager Tom Derrico and chef Mike Ianniello, all worked together for years at the acclaimed Vail Village restaurant Sweet Basil.

“East Vail is a whole different thing,” shares Lewis. “It’s a whole different vibe, which I love. It’s so chill, which is amazing.”

In May 2022, Almadhoun and Lewis acquired the space within Vail Racquet Club from the operators of what was Heirloom Restaurant. The only founda tion the Aprés team had to work with was the bones of the space with tables and chairs. They turned around an entire restaurant concept in a month, opening for the summer season in June. They painted the wall behind the bar blue like the Colorado sky, created an approach able and delicious menu, ordered top-tier ingredients, put their twist on every

detail, then hit the ground running.

“It’s just nice having people that have been in the industry and who know what they’re doing and are willing to adapt and figure it out, all together,” says Lewis.

The space is large with tall ceilings and picture windows. Artwork throughout celebrates what it means to aprés play fully; illustrations reading “Planet of the Aprés” and “The Phantom of the Aprés.” It’s very community friendly, for large groups and small, and an additional up stairs area with a separate bar and patio will be available for use this winter; then, they’ll prep another patio for summer.

Such a solid foundation creates a pure appetite for great food and drinks, and of course, the Aprés team serves it all up just right. Almadhoun and chef Ianniello order the best ingredients and have kept the menu offerings simple and executed to perfection. Tasty starters and dynamic salads are great to share alongside an order of Aprés’ signature fries. Guests can choose a seasoning, a sauce and a protein for a personalized and unique combination of what could be coined “Rocky Mountain poutine.” Lewis is partial to the Old Bay seasoning with seafood on top.

Aprés makes their pizza dough and pasta from scratch; it’s a vibe of quality that runs throughout. Almadhoun says some elevated winter additions will include mussels, crab mac and cheese, tabouli with duck confit and vanilla crème brûlée.

Derrico’s beverage program follows suit with house wine selections that are more tasteful than most you’ll see on a by-the-glass list, classic cocktails with top-shelf ingredients and local craft beer from staples like Vail Brewing Company.

Aprés Cafe is no doubt an endeavor sustained of combined hearts and tal ents, and the support of every guest who comes in and dines is absolutely felt.

“We have friends further down valley, and I don’t expect to see their faces of ten,” says Derrico, "but for them to have a special occasion four miles away from Vail Village where they’ve never been able to have it before, that’s super cool.”

And remember, you can aprés any thing, so there’s always an occasion to head over and enjoy Aprés Cafe. +

Mirabelle Restaurant

Restaurant spotlight

Beaver Creek

By Kim Fuller

The legacy of Mirabelle Restaurant is now 40 years in the making, as the quaint farmhouse tucked away near the entrance to Beaver Creek just celebrated the four-decade anniversary in 2022.

Though the French-inspired restaurant was founded in 1982 (in the very early days of Beaver Creek Resort), chef Daniel Joly and his wife, Nathalie, have owned Mirabelle since 1999 and have been operating the restaurant since 1991.

Snowflakes fall on the farmhouse porch as we walk toward its entrance illuminated with still light and the ambient welcome of a tall, twinkle-lit pine tree. Mirabelle’s roof shingles are sheets of white, and I look down to see my boots breaking through the soft powder.

“Mirabelle is really, in so many ways, a magical place for people,” says chef Joly as he greets us with a broad smile.

PHOTOS BY TOWNSEND BESSENT; AND COURTESY OF MIRABELLE

Chef Joly is Belgian and has brought authentic European charm and hospi tality to the Valley season after season. He is always looking to improve upon the experience of Mirabelle and shares how the future of the property may hold a French bakery, maybe even a bed and breakfast, and perhaps work ing with an eager and talented young chef who can carry on what Mirabelle has so beautifully sustained.

“I’m not getting any younger,” says Joly, “but to keep Mirabelle for the next 50 years would be something very special.”

Flurries continue to fly as we sit and watch from our cozy window table. We enjoy an exquisite meal, allowing Joly to do what he does best as he creates an unforgettable four-course tasting menu, the “Le Menu Gourmand.” If Joly has Do ver Sole on the menu, which he so often does, be sure to delight in this perfect execution of French cuisine, meunièrestyle, the delicate fish set alongside baby spinach, crispy potato tuilea and lemon brown butter sauce.

Every meal at Mirabelle becomes a sweet memory, especially when you finish the evening with a house-made pastry.

With so many meals at Mirabelle remembered by so many, it’s wonderful to see Valley locals and guests continue to return year after year.

“We get to touch so many people’s lives and be a part of the experience of coming to Beaver Creek, to the Vail Valley,” says Joly. “It’s now about giving back to the people who have supported us for so long. And, we have a lot of those people, and we are very lucky for that.” +

Eat With Your Hands

By Russel Reuben + William Montecristo

Each issue of Covered Bridge we, your brave culinary explorers Russel Reuben and William Montecristo, search the Valley for inspiring burgers, sandwiches, tacos, snacks on a stick, second breakfasts and finger foods.

For issue three, we wanted to explore an often overlooked yet frequently elevat ed comfort food. Whether you’re a road worn and weary traveler or just enjoying local staycation vibes, one trusty menu offering always seems to be waiting and ready to lift you up like a letter from home. Blue collar born and bred, yet comfort able betwixt extravagant opulence, for your consideration …

Buffalo Style Chicken Wings Served in Fancy Hotel Lobbies (paired with Coors Light)

Reuben: Have you ever used a valet for your car while picking up chicken wings? Yeah, me neither. You get what you pay for with these crazy, crispy flappers: extra skin bits, heirloom carrots and Egyptian cotton lemon essential oil wet wipes. These bad bitties might just be the best hotel lobby chicken wings this side of Buffalo. Def bringing Photo Tom here on our next “Fancy Man Night Out.”

Montecristo: It’s true that in my Bridge Street prime I may have dominated a 25-cent wing night or two back when the Village still had dive bars. But now, I’m a man of refined tastes. I prefer to micro-dose my drummies and responsi bly enjoy an American style light lager. Remedy means serious wing business and dishes out the crispy skin for the win! The highest PPW (price per wing) in the study, but before letting après sticker shock dis suade you from following in our footsteps ask yourself, “Do you like luxury?”

Silver

8100, Park Hyatt Beaver Creek

Reuben: I wonder if chicken wings dream about me, too? Make your way past the surreal and psychedelic friendly lobby fire feature, pull up a seat at the bar and devour chicken wings like life does dreams. First sous vide, then fried golden and crisp, it’s an all gas no brakes, one-way ticket to dreamland once the plate is served!

Montecristo: I just learned what crudi tes means, but I must say this crudites is on point. Micro-green garnished and lightly sauced to let that delicate chick en flavor shine. Just the right amount of lip tickle from these posh spiced wings, but those cayenne flames are doused handily by a best-class ranch dressing. Not too thin, not too thick, it’s the ranch Goldilocks ate.

Bronze

Pivot 62, Highline Hotel West Vail

Reuben: Who knew this place had more to offer than an easily poachable pool and hot tub? Considered our most local spot in the “Lambo Wing” challenge, I found myself voraciously biting into this sauce drenched wing thinking, “Who needs lip gloss when you've been eating buffalo wings?”

Montecristo: I like my mountains blue and wings red hot! Big thanks to my homie Jack, whose educated tastebuds have worked at every fancy restaurant in town, for turning my wing-man Russie Rubes and I onto these West Vail delicacies. We often feel like Vail’s own Maverick and Goose in our high-flying quest for culinary excellence, and bros eating with their hands proved to be the blockbuster feelgood hit of the season.

Disclaimer: These rankings are absolutely anecdotal samplings of some of the food we ate with our hands and is by no stretch of the imagination an all-inclusive or accurate encapsulation of the Valley’s cornucopia of offerings. If you have a suggestion of where we should eat next please email us at eatwithyourhandsvail@gmail.com.

Gold

Remedy Bar, Four Seasons Vail

Originally from central Massachusetts, Nate

Pasquale has always been passionate about snow boarding and spending time outside in the mountains.

“After leaving college in New Hamp shire, I wasn't ready to give up mountain town living, so I packed my beat up Subaru and moved to Vail on a whim with three friends from college,” shares Pasquale. “Naturally, I've been a victim of the classic ‘moved for a season and simply never left.’”

Pasquale found a home not only in the mountains but at Montauk seafood grill. He has worked as a busser, server and bartender and is now the bar manager.

“I have always learned new skills as I’ve grown into new roles,” says Pasquale. “I don't often consider myself a creative person off my snowboard, but I've come to love and enjoy the process of creating cocktails that evoke feelings of my home in New England or the travels I've expe rienced through the ‘open schedule’ that mountain town restaurant and seasonal culture allows.”

Pasquale says he draws inspiration from the continuous culinary creativity that Chef Dimitri provides with each menu, playing off of his integration of wholesome, fresh, seasonal ingredients.

“At the end of the day,” adds Pasquale, “it’s all about connecting with guests and being able to share this incredible valley experience with each of them through libations and quality ingredients.” +

PHOTO BY TOWNSEND BESSENT

Created by Nate Pasquale, Bar Manager at Montauk Seafood Grill in Lionshead Village, Vail

Kombucha Refreshing Variety Bubbling Up on Drink Menus

By Lucie Hanes

There’s a new addition to the regular drink selection at cafés, restaurants and brew eries across the Vail Valley: kombucha. Kombucha itself is nothing new; the fizzy fermented drink has lined the shelves of specialty health food stores for years now. But, its presence on menus has elevated kombucha from niche to refreshingly mainstream.

Historically, the lineup of options available to those not interested in alcohol has looked pretty dismal across the board. Soda, juice and seltzer water have comprised that list for too long, while the array of alcoholic options has skyrocketed in comparison. The increase in interest for better, nonalcoholic drinks has helped fuel the rise of kombucha.

Kombucha makes such an ideal alter native to alcohol, because it features many of the same characteristics that make alcoholic drinks so appealing. It’s fizzy like beer, crisp like wine and fruity like a cocktail. Tack on the added health benefits from fermentation, and you’ve got yourself a worthy competitor.

Many local eateries now offer a wide variety of kombucha flavors and types to give sober folks a way to actually enjoy a night out. Color Coffee and Vail Brewing

Company even include local kombucha on tap right alongside draft beer.

“We try to have one on draft, so someone that’s not drinking at all or at the time can still come here with their friends and feel included,” explains Marshall Kohls, manager and buyer at Color Coffee. The café stays open into the evening for when the day shifts from coffee hour to happy hour. Kohls picks from popular brands like Rowdy Mermaid and Brew Dr., as well as more specialty options like his personal favor ite, Happy Leaf. His main criterion is low sugar content to keep the drink tasting sophisticated.

Vail Brewing Company has also re cently added kombucha to their menu. They keep a rotating flavor option from Rocky Mountain Cultures on tap yearround. They don’t brew it in-house for the time being while trying to keep up with the regular beer demand but still like to keep it local. Rocky Mountain Cultures started out as High Country Kombucha in Eagle and now produces their kombucha in Gypsum as a distrib utor for carriers like VBC.

But, one of the best qualities about kombucha is its versatility. The drink works for all sorts of scenarios because

of the abundance of flavors. A bright lemon makes a perfect midday sum mer refreshment, for instance; while, a deeper blackberry or ginger matches the cool air of an early spring day. “We like to match the flavor with the season,” says a busy bartender at Vail Brewing Company while slinging drinks — including the cur rent peach kombucha — down the bar. “That way the kombucha doesn’t just feel like an afterthought to the beer.”

It’s also one of the few drinks out there that successfully swings both ways. There are plenty of alcoholic kombucha options available as well, but there’s no loss of taste or benefit either way. Opting for regular kombucha doesn’t feel like accepting a consolation prize, in contrast to nonalcoholic beer that’s more often disappointing than not.

Kombucha’s rise in popularity doesn’t just represent a new beverage fad; it’s more of a social upheaval. People have become increasingly interested in finding new ways to connect with one another over food and drink. Just as more vege tarian and vegan plates help plant-based diners feel more welcome at restaurants, kombucha serves as a reminder that alcohol isn’t the be-all and end-all. When a menu expands, so does the community. +

Mardy Murie Did! Grandmother of Conservation

review By Sandy Ferguson Fuller

What does it mean to live life so deeply, so completely and so extraordinarily that your spirit, work and gifts will not be forgotten? Mardy Murie did. Do you know about this exceptional woman who is now remembered as the “Grandmother of Conservation?”

Margaret ‘Mardy’ Murie was a natural ist, author, adventurer, environmentalist and Medal of Freedom winner. She was born August 18, 1902 in Seattle, Washington and grew up in Fairbanks, Alaska. A “pioneer” soul, she was the first woman graduate of the University of Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines (UAF) in 1924, the same year she met and married her husband, Olaus. They honeymooned on a rugged dogsled trip while Olaus conducted research, recording flora and fauna of the Arctic for the U.S. Biological Survey on Alaska's Koyukuk River. This area was later incor porated as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Mardy is best known for her de votion to the creation and preservation of these pristine lands.

Mardy and Olaus moved to Moose, Wyoming in 1927, where they built a log cabin and raised three children. Their homestead on the Snake River by Jackson Hole and bordering Grand Teton National Park is the current site of the Murie Center Ranch and Teton Science School (TSS). The ranch has been designated a National Historic District for its conservation history. It is well-worth your visit. Mardy was instrumental to the growth of the Na tional Park in 1950. She was a founding member of TSS, acting on her belief that educating children is key to an environmentally healthy future. Indeed, the Muries together inspired multiple

BY JON VAN ZYLE

Did you ever look up and see mountains so beautiful and so high that they disappeared right into the sky, covered by trees and snow and clouds?

And did you ever try to save beautiful mountain From road and cars and cities and crowds?

Mardy Murie did!

generations of young biologists and conservationists, setting the course of the conservation movement over 80 years ago. Olaus died in 1963, leaving Mardy with an empty heart, except for her passionate love for wildlife and wild places.

Mardy was determined and unstoppa ble, influencing everyone who crossed her path. She had many “famous” friends and admirers, including U.S. presidents, Senators, actors, entertainers, scientists, naturalists and common folk. Those lucky enough to know Mardy were inspired by being in her gentle presence, just to listen and to learn. Presidents Lyndon Johnson, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton respected her vision and wisdom. Presi dent Clinton bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom upon Mardy in 1998 for her work. Robert Redford, John Den ver, Lee Whittlesey of the National Park Service Yellowstone and Senator Mark Udall enjoyed visits to the Murie Ranch.

Late in her life, Mardy became iconic

in conservation circles. As a writer, speaker and lobbyist, she pushed for protection of Alaskan lands that ulti mately resulted in the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conser vation Act signed by President Carter in 1980. She was constantly featured in environmental programs produced for the National Park Service and other organizations, speaking eloquently about preservation of natural places. Life would not be worth living without the “elemental kinds of joys” offered by nature, she often reminded us.

My work as a literary agent for John Denver led me to learn about his close friend, Mardy, and her incredible legacy. She died in 2003 at the age of 101 in the shadow of her beautiful and high Teton mountains before I ever had a chance to meet her in person, but she had already inspired a memorable children’s picture book.

Mardy Murie Did! is written by Colora do author Jequita Potts McDaniel with

illustrations by award-winning Eagle River, Alaska artist, Jon Van Zyle. They both knew Mardy. This timeless (and more-timely-than-ever!) picture book was first published in 2010 by Taylor Trade/Rowman & Littlefield/NBN. It remains a classic, with endorsements from Clinton, Udall and Whittlesey. The lyrical text and stunning color illustra tions celebrate Mardy's fascinating life and encourage everyone …

"To be nice to the land and the trees and the air . . .

We can do this you and me, be cause Mardy Murie did!"

Mardy Murie’s life made a difference. May we each live ours as deeply. +

Mardy Murie Did! is available from Alp Arts Press: alparts.com ; also available through the Murie Center ( tetonscience.org ) or wherever you buy books.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BAT COUNTRY STUDIOS

Carrying the Torch of a Taboo Art Form

Ben Belgrad is Lighting Up the Vail Art Scene

By Laura Mills

What if I told you that the next storm of underground art was forming just a few miles away down I-70? Bat Country Studios is home to a collective of unique creatives who are working with mediums most of us are traditionally unfamiliar with, like borosilicate scientific flame working. You’ve probably heard of the more well-known version of borosili cate: Pyrex – a type of glass that can be heated to extreme temperatures without breaking. It’s the same type of glass that is used to make bongs, rigs, pipes and, more recently, Drinking Vessels.

Collecting art and selling one-off items at auctions is something we of ten tie to a level of wealth and hierar chy. When we think of bongs and glass used to smoke marijuana, they usually don’t fall into the same category —

until recently. In 2010, Ben Belgrad, owner of Bat Country Studios, won a beautifully made bong in a 4/20 raffle while he was a sophomore at Indiana University. Infatuated with the extreme level of talent that was put into the piece and the opportunity to learn from the creator, Belgrad tapped into a level of creativity, connecting him to the underground art world, made mostly of glass.

Pipe makers historically had to fight through a myriad of legal limitations to get their art in front of buyers. From sell ing their art pieces, some of which take weeks and months to make, out of the back of their Subaru at the lot of a Grate ful Dead show to now having pieces go to auction for $250,000, there was, and is, no easy jump. When talking to Belgrad about the progression of borosilicate glass blowing going from paraphernalia

to art, he was not short on anecdotes applicable to the growth.

“20 years ago, my contemporaries were afraid to be in the car with the marijuana pipes they made on the way to the shops to sell them,” shares Belgrad. “If they got pulled over, they could go to jail. Now, you have this situation where these pieces are in museums and being auctioned at So theby’s and Christie’s, and these pieces are achieving a level of art appreciation that just was not there under the crimi nalization and illegality of marijuana.”

With marijuana becoming recreation ally legal in varying states across the United States, the secretive element of pipe making was able to break its way into mainstream art.

Borosilicate glassblowing is tedious, hot and requires lots of patience. Through the use of a high-powered pro

pane torch and a supply of oxygen, glass artists are able to mold and manipulate borosilicate glass, usually with graphite tools and often a massive lathe. After the creation has been molded to the speci fications of the artist, it is put into a kiln and heated to 1,050 degrees Fahrenheit slowly, then dropped back down to room temperature in an eight-hour, molecu larly-scientific process. The road doesn’t end there, some pieces require cold working or manipulating the medium after it has been fired. This process takes copious amounts of artistic dedication.

What if there was a way to physically bridge the gap between the pipe maker and the traditional art collector? Belgrad and his comrades are paving the way in doing just that with his project, Drink ing Vessels and events like the Vail Cup Collectors Club.

“Through Drinking Vessels, I’ve created a marketplace for these pipe artists to translate the pipe art patterns and imagery into the shape of a cup, decanter, flask or shot glass, and it’s created a way for this art to be shared, maybe with people who don’t smoke weed or who aren’t interested in buy ing pipes but may love the artwork that they’re seeing through this movement,” Belgrad explains.

These cups aren’t your usual hand blown glass pieces; they are weird, funky and stunningly beautiful, endowed with the imaginative gems of the pipe artists.

“I can’t go into Vail Village before snowboarding and have one of my fancy bongs and be smoking and showing my friends and sharing it with them,” he re marks. “But, I can go to Two Arrows and bring my own cup and have them serve me my matcha latte in my heady mug and share it with my friends.”

By lifting the limitations of the traditional art created by pipe makers, enthusiasts can interact with functional art within the community.

Community is a word that came up often in the discussion with Belgrad. He feels it is a pillar of success among

artists. In Vail, we are not unfamiliar with the arts in the form of traditional mo dalities, but what Belgrad and the artists that make up Bat Country Studios are trying to do is add a fresh new element to the Vail art scene.

“A lot of the people that are serving the Vail community are of a generally younger demographic,” he says. “Surprisingly, very few of them have a place to create their art.” By working to create open house taco nights with his team that welcome in the community in any aspect, he hopes to foster a stronger connection between the traditional art lovers of Vail and the new age glass blowers and their out-of-thisworld pieces.

The ultimate goal of Belgrad’s mission is to bring access to a form of art that

has a hefty overhead cost to established and up-and-coming artists.

“My friend Seth Levy helped finance this studio here in Minturn, because he views it as a community asset,” Belgrad explains. “His kids are younger than 10 and two of them have melted glass in my studio. All three of the kids have come here and worked on art projects on the floor of the studio.”

Sure, this form of glass blowing orig inates with a connection to cannabis, but with the fresh element of Drinking Vessels, a taboo craft is now increas ingly more accessible and desirable to all art lovers who live in and visit the Vail Valley. +

Learn more at drinkingvessels.com

Bridging the gap between the pipe maker and the traditional art collector.

style for the season

Mountain Style Fashion for Mountain Living

By Kimberly Nicolletti

Z&L Europe

Cosmic Duster

Super-breathable, viscose fabric and cosmic-inspired embroidery elevates this easy-wear duster. $149 Blitz

Alpine Kind Camper

Made in collaboration with Ski Town All Stars, these hats are adjustable and come in navy, salmon or biscuit. $38.95

Alpine Kind

Cohabit Hoodie

This French terry hoodie is perfect for aprés, a morning dog walk or an evening by the fire. This women’s hoodie is colorful, comfortable and perfect for all the snow-loving adventurers up here in the Vail Valley. $68

Ketsol

Shelby Boot

The chunky boot of the season, this all-weather footwear is the best way to stay elevated. $164.95

Alpine Kind

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOCAL RETAILERS

Dolce Vita Lawson Cowboy Boots

Slip your feet into the latest twist on the most wanted Western design, finished with a bold starburst design that’s sure to stand out. $220 Blitz

Optimist Tee

Alpine Kind’s best-selling Perfect Tee is making a comeback, now in soft organic cotton that’s been pigment dyed for a cool, vintage, lived-in feel. Featuring a fun, optimism-inspired graphic, this wear-everywhere tee lives up to its namesake. $67.95

Jebbie's Denim Jacket

The denim shirt “you cannot live without” features tufted shoulders. Pair it with an Optimist Tee, and you’ll be all the rage. $48.95

Alpine Kind

Retailers

Blitz

242 E. Meadow Drive • Vail blitzvail.com

Ketso 41149 Hwy 6 • Avon ketsol.com

Alpine Kind

61 Avondale Lane • Beaver Creek alpinekind.com

Moncler

141 E. Meadow Drive • Vail moncler.com

Moncler Maya 70 Woodland Violet Jacket

This limited-edition down jacket in washed nylon lux lacqué with extraordinary forever 70th anniversary logo is unisex, so it’s perfect for both men and women. $1,980

Moncler

Drew Southwest Jacket

Southwestern isn’t a trend reserved just for the mountains. This ultra-versatile, contemporary jacket features a bracelet sleeve for easy wear-ability. $348 Blitz

(Only the style on the right is available.)

style for the season

Piney Moose Pullover

Inspired by the moose seen by so many people at Piney Lake, this unisex French terry pullover is soft and great for year-round comfort, from the backyard to the backcountry. $68

Foxes Toddler Dress

Dress your little explorer in this French terry dress with its cute fit and flare style. $39 Ketsol

Beaver Creek 3 Peak Retro Long Sleeve

Printed locally and exclusively for Alpine Kind, these long-sleeve tees are Beaver Creek must haves. $38.95

Alpine Kind

Trailgrip GTX Off-White Shoes

These low-top sneakers feature Gore-Tex technology and Vibram’s world-leading Megagrip lugged rubber soles for mountain trekking. $750 Moncler

Joe Srholez Colorado Artist + Wood Sculptor

By Laura Lieff

If it’s made of wood (or ice), Joe Srholez can carve it. A Colorado resident since 1989, Srholez is an artist, wood sculptor and perfor mance wood and ice carver who is in spired by travel, landscapes and culture. Before founding Sweetwater Trading Post in 2009, he honed his chainsaw skills during the two decades he spent building log homes.

“I was sitting on a log reading blue prints and decided to carve a saddle into the log to make it more comfortable,” Srholez remembers. “Then, I carved abstract shapes into it, and my interest in wood design continued from there.”

A true artist of nature who occupies his own niche in an industry that requires the utmost precision and expertise, Srholez’s dedication to his craft runs deep. His grandfather — a master gold, silver and coppersmith who created pieces for Tiffany and Co. and Cartier —

is one of his major influences. Although his grandfather’s creations were a bit different, Srholez says their simplistic yet intricate design sense is similar.

“His attention to detail was unbeliev able, and that’s important to me as well,” he explains.

In 2015, when chainsaw carving was still a hobby, Srholez signed up for the Minturn Farmers Market where he sold Colorado flags, flowers and abstracts — all made of wood. Although setting up and breaking down his booth each week was laborious, Srholez describes it as a good learning experience for future shows.

BIG CHANGE, NEW GIG

An avid snowboarder and snowmobiler, Srholez was in a sledding accident in 2016, which caused severe head trauma. After he recovered, he decided to get out of the log home construction business and give full-time carving a shot.

“I didn’t have a plan, which was rough financially at first,” Srholez explains. “But in the spring of 2017, I heard about a chainsaw competition in Rifle and went to check it out. I thought it was going to be all bear carvings — which I didn’t want to do, because everyone else was doing it — but I was wrong. It was so much more.”

The chainsaw competition was Carve Wars — an event that invites chainsaw artists to compete against each other and create authentic pieces over three days. Once completed, the pieces are sold in a live auction, giving spectators a chance to purchase original art after

watching it being made.

“Participating in that first Carve Wars event changed everything,” remembers Srholez. “I saw how fast people were carving and how much they were selling because of their pace.”

LEARNING FROM THE PROS

After Carve Wars, Srholez became ingrained in the carving world. He met Rustic Arts owner Ken Braun, who became his travel partner to events like Chainsaws & Chuckwagons in Frederick and Bear Hollow’s exhibition carving shows that take place across the United States. Srholez also met Joe Wenal, who owns Carve Wars and introduced him to more shows like Whittle the Wood in Craig.

“I met some of the top carvers in the world and was invited to learn from them,” he says. “It was like going to carve school, and, after absorbing their knowl edge, I won my first competition.”

In 2018, Srholez won Carve Wars in

Eagle. In 2019, he won Carve Wars in both Eagle and Durango and placed second at Chainsaws & Chuckwagons. He contin ues to be part of the carving competition circuit, participating in 12 show this year.

“I’m creating pieces and competing at these events, but I’m also putting on a show,” Srholez explains. “After doing it a few times, I realized that I enjoy perform ing in front of an audience.”

WOOD + ICE

Since carving shows are seasonal (most ly happening in the summer, early fall and late spring), Srholez spends winters building inventory, taking custom orders and ice carving — a skill he learned after meeting world-renowned ice sculptor Scott Rella. Trained at the New York Academy of Art, Rella represented the United States in ice carving at the 1994 and 2002 Olympic Games.

“I started performance ice sculpting in 2017 and have learned so much from Scott,” Srholez says. “Now, I do sculp

tures around the country — from Beaver Creek to Las Vegas to Banff, Canada.”

When Srholez isn’t on the road, he is working in his Sweetwater studio in Gypsum. While he welcomes visitors by appointment, Sweetwater Trading Post is not a retail shop; it’s a place for people to see Srholez’s pieces and discuss custom orders. Eventually, Srholez would like Sweetwater Trading Post to become a place where artists show their work to fellow artists and the public.

“The most significant difference between the construction world and the art world is in construction people ask, ‘When will you be finished?’ which gets old,” he says. “Conversely, in the art world, people say, ‘Wow, what a cool piece,’ and that’s very much appreciated.”

Srholez adds, “I’m happy that people like what I do. I’m also glad that people are buying art and supporting the arts in general. It’s all extremely important.” +

Learn more at joesrholez.com.

PHOTOS BY JENNIFER WEINTRAUB

Colorado’s Canyon Country

A Desert Destination Without

Leaving the State

By Jennifer Weintraub

Massive, red rock walls rise from the desert floor as rivers and creeks snake through the landscape, creating dramatic canyons, beckoning one to explore refreshing swimming holes for a cool mid-day dip. Looking around, the scenery looks like Utah’s red rock country, but is actually the western edge of Colorado.

Breaking out from my normal rotation of desert destinations after a long, cold winter, I stumbled upon Dominguez Escalante National Conservation Area (NCA) when I was looking for a warm spring getaway. I’ve driven past this unassuming stretch of Hwy 50 dozens of times before, but it wasn’t until I dug a little deeper that I found the beauty hidden from within.

Located 22 miles south of Grand Junction, the landscape from the highway consists of grass plains and a few juniper-pinyon trees. Venture off the road into the 200,000-plus acres of protected land to find a family-friendly outdoor playground to experience by foot, raft or motorized vehicle. Mellow hiking trails, flat roads and an easy float make this a perfect destination for families of all ages.

Outdoor adventure isn’t the only draw to the area. Canyon walls are marked with petroglyphs from Native Americans that date back thousands of years. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that settlers

moved into the area and used it to graze cattle. Many of the historic cabins are still standing today.

HIKE THROUGH CANYON COUNTRY

Big Dominguez Canyon is a 13-mile through-hike popular with backpack ers or as an out-and-back trail for day hikers. The best way to experience this hike is to pack for the day with lunch and a bathing suit for a swim in one of the pools.

It’s an easy trail that is mostly flat, wide and smooth, with a few rocks along the way. We’ve taken kids in backpacks and an off-road Burley stroller, which was able to navigate a majority of the trail. While the trail is relatively easy, the heat can become crippling with no shade along the way.

Starting along the Gunnison River, the path follows train tracks before it crosses a bridge and continues along a canyon wall upstream. Once the trail enters the wilderness area, huge, red rock forma tions and massive sandstone walls rise up from the desert landscape. Eventu ally, the trail turns into Big Dominguez Canyon, characterized by narrower canyon walls and a stream below with some swimming holes. Around three miles, a waterfall has created a lush oasis in the desert. Find a place to stop and swim or continue deeper into the canyon for more swimming pools, interesting geological features and rock art.

FLOAT ON

A 30-mile stretch of the Gunnison River takes boaters from Escalante Canyon to the Whitewater boat ramp. Most of the float is Class I and II rapids, as it passes through some 800-foot canyon walls and dramatic desert landscape.

There are ample opportunities for camping and hiking along the float. The river passes by the trailhead for Big Dominguez Canyon before it enters the wilderness area. Free, self-issue permits are required for overnight trips and can be obtained at the boat launch.

MOTORIZED RECREATION

Miles of existing dirt roads and 4x4 trails within the area allow motorized recre ation, making it an attractive destination for dirt bikes and side-by-sides. Bikes and motorized vehicles are not allowed in wilderness areas, so head to the northern or southern edge of Dominguez Escalante NCA to explore. Tabeguache

Trail and Nine Mile Hill within the Cactus Park area are popular trails.

TAKE A DIP

Looking for relief from the hot Colora do sun? Stop at one of the swimming holes along the Big Dominguez Trail or visit the Potholes, an idyllic swimming spot consisting of small pools tucked along steep canyon walls. Located 12 miles up Escalante Canyon Road, numerous swimming areas within the Potholes Recreation Area can be reached by scrambling down a smooth rock face. Swim with caution, as hidden currents in the Potholes can be dan gerous and pull swimmers underwater, regardless of ability.

PITCH A TENT

Several designated campsites with some facilities are available at the Potholes Recreation area; otherwise, there is dis persed camping on BLM land throughout

the region. Continue past the Potholes Recreation Area on Escalante Canyon Road for dispersed campsites tucked against the canyon wall or overlook ing the river below. Another option is Escalante Overlook Road, located a few miles north. This area has plenty of open land and a few spots perched on a cliff high above the Gunnison River. Just beware, many of the dispersed areas are filled with small cacti, so watch where you step and sleep.

LET’S GO!

Ready to head to Dominguez Escalante NCA? Hovering around 5,000 feet, the high desert plains stay mostly free of snow other than a few months in the dead of winter, but spring is the best time to explore the area. At this time, temperatures are warm but not yet swel tering and water levels are high enough to float the river and fill the watering holes for a refreshing dip. +

getaway

Swiss Dreams

Winter Visit to Zermatt

By kim fuller

Our train from Geneva rolled into Zermatt on a crisp and clear evening in late January. Weary from the international trip but energized by our arrival to Switzerland, we grabbed our luggage and walked out of the station to find the electric taxi designated to Chalet Hotel Schönegg. I looked up and around, eagerly hoping to catch a glimpse of the 14,692-foot peak that towers over town.

It had been over a decade since I’d been to Zermatt, but familiarities of the alpine village came rushing back as we began riding through the village. No cars are permitted, only bicycles and electric taxis and buses. Most often, you’ll see people walking on the path by the river or the cobblestone streets that wind throughout town.

We turned a corner, and the Matter horn came into view. Of all the impressive mountains in the world, there are many reasons why “the peak of the meadows” is so celebrated. What seems most notable is the jaw-dropping prominence and scale of the lone peak from every angle. Wher ever you are in Zermatt, and from its oth er side in Cervino, Italy, the Matterhorn is a magnificent backdrop to the memories of a lifetime that you’re making.

PHOTOS BY KIM FULLER + MAKENZIE MUELLER

Chalet Hotel Schönegg is a Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel with a gourmet restaurant, offering exception al service and an incredible location just above the main village of Zermatt. The Relais & Châteaux hotel portfolio boasts incredible properties around the world, including two in Colorado: Dunton Hot Springs near Telluride and The Little Nell in Aspen. This affiliation drew us to the property, and it lived up to our expectations thoroughly. We enjoyed a quaint and lovely guest room with a balcony offering sweeping views of town and the Matterhorn, a lovely Swiss breakfast buffet every morning, a ski locker room and a spa area with a whirlpool, along with a number of other sweet details and amenities.

While prices fluctuate according to the season, Chalet Hotel Schönegg was mid-range yet didn’t skimp at all on high standards of European hospitality. Next door is a lower priced sister hotel, Hotel Alpenroyal, and our friend who stayed there had no complaints at all.

A winter visit to Zermatt is everything you’d imagine from an idyllic European ski town. Rows of authentic shops and

restaurants line the streets; in the morn ing, people are headed toward the moun tain and in the evening, coming down from it. While skiing is the main recre ation attraction in the snowy months, miles of winter hiking trails are marked and well-maintained for daily use.

Zermatt is Europe’s highest ski resort, offering a few distinct areas like the Sunnegga-Rothorn with sweeping piste terrain and great views of the Matter horn, the Gornergrat area accessed from a scenic alpine railway and Schwarzsee-Klein Matterhorn glacier area that links to Cervina, Italy. At the top of the Klein Matterhorn at 12,532 feet, you

We turned a corner, and the Matterhorn came into view. What seems most notable is the jaw-dropping prominence and scale of the lone peak from every angle. The Matterhorn is a magnificent backdrop to the memories of a lifetime that you’re making.

can drop over 7,000 feet back to town the largest on-piste vertical drop in the Alps. Day tickets are the lowest price when purchased ahead of time online at matterhornparadise.ch and are less than $100 per day.

On-mountain dining is a highlight in Zermatt. A can’t-miss spot for lunch (and you must make a reservation) is Chez Vrony in the rustic hamlet of Findeln. The Alphitta at Riffelalp is also a notable stop, even just for a pint of beer or spritz on the Matterhorn-facing balcony. Après is a big part of the ski culture in all of Europe, and Zermatt has some extra fun spots, like Hennu Stall, located at the bottom of the Furi-Zermatt valley slope, and it seems once you start dancing here in ski boots you cannot stop.

Wonderful meals are a part of the Zermatt experience, and while fon due, raclette and all the Swiss cheese specialties are readily available (we liked Restaurant Schäferstube for fondue!), a diverse array of international cuisine can be found throughout the village. Located within the high-end resort CERVO, the eastern-inspired restaurant Bazaar offers eclectic flavor with a cozy atmosphere if you want a break from Swiss menus. We also really enjoyed Le Gitan for its warm

ambiance, wine list featuring local Valais varieties, grill-fired meats and mouthwa tering pasta dishes.

It’s no secret that people travel from all over the United States and the world to visit our magnificent mountain towns and ski areas here in Colorado, but there is no denying how special a European Alps ski trip truly is. The lo gistics aren’t bad — just find a flight to Geneva, line yourself up with a Swiss Travel Pass (pricey, but worth it if you’re doing some train travel in Swit zerland, including scenic rides around Zermatt), book a hotel and some ski days and get yourself there. Oh yes, and invite some fun friends to join you.

To wake up in a place like Zermatt and take a step outside to watch the morning sun hit the Matterhorn … it’s a dream that you get to be awake for. Be sure to take it all in, because before you know it you’ll be on the train again, looking back for a last glimpse of that magnificent mountain and all those memories in the making. +

The Stories of Vail Pioneers

Vail Public Library Offers Digital Archives That Delve Into the History of the Valley

By Lisa Blake

“

1971 in Vail was a time when almost nothing seemed impossi ble, and everything was new.”

Tara Flanagan sums up the spirit of Vail Public Library’s digital ar chives, called Vail Valley Voices, through that opening statement, which introduc es longtime Vail Valley artist Debbie Bo lon-Feeney. The artist’s voice recording is just one of nearly 80 the library currently offers freely to the public, whether you have a library card or not.

Vail Valley Voices aims to digitally archive, through photos and voice recordings, a comprehensive history of the Vail Valley, from its indigenous people to its evolution as a town and renowned resort destination.

“For me, a fun part of these interviews is finding that very unique piece of histo ry that really stands out,” says Tony Mau ro, who’s known as “the voice of Vail” and currently conducts the interviews.

He recalls a story from Dr. Jack Eck, one of Vail Health’s pioneers, who talked about going into a mine to help a miner who got stuck and was left behind in the dark cavity with no lights, because all the other “superstitious” miners ran out.

The digitized stories run the gamut, from multiple people talking about the Vail Trail to the Vail Rotary Club and Sum mervail Art Workshop. They also include controversy over projects like building the first roundabout or how wildlife and the jobs of wildlife officers have changed over the years. Of course, it includes plenty of stories from the early days of Vail Moun tain and Vail Village, from Ann and Pepi Langegger surviving World War II and migrating to the U.S., to naming Widge’s Ridge after Alice “Widge” Ferguson, to Pete Seibert Jr.’s adventures on the mountain as a kid and his founding father’s

Want more? Vail Public Library has three digital collections: Vail Valley Voices, Art in Vail and Vintage Vail Quilt. The 1982 quilt hangs in the library’s community room, but you can also see it online and learn about each square and all the artists. Art in Vail features an interactive map, photos and information on the 45 Art in Public Places program. vaillibrary.com/virtuallyvail

Above: Walter Gallacher interviewing Klaus Oberbayer, founder of Sport Obermeyer, Ltd.

contribution to skiing and role in the 10th Mountain Division.

Funded by Friends of Vail Public Library, Vail Valley Voices is presented by the Vail Public Library as part of the town’s Cultural Heritage Preservation & Programs mission, which strives to preserve, enrich and sustain the cultural and historic legacy of Vail. The program formed in 2019 after Vail applied for cer tification as a Sustainable Destination by the Global Sustainable Tourism Network in 2017. The town received approval on nearly every criterion but didn’t have a system to protect and honor its cultural heritage, which is one criteria of certifi cation. While the town did get condition

ally certified as a Sustainable Destina tion, the organization wanted to see how Vail was improving on this front. Now, 14 members meet bimonthly to expand Vail’s legacy through initiatives like Vail Valley Voices, Art in Public Places, digi tizing the Vail Trail (Vail’s first newspaper) and the Colorado Snowsports Museum. As a result of the preservation work (and all of Vail’s green initiatives), Vail became fully compliant, and certified, as a Sus tainable Destination in 2020.

“Capturing history is absolutely price less,” says Lori Barnes, director of library services at Vail Public Library. “It’s a labor of love. There’s a lot of effort that goes into preserving local history; it’s just so important.”

Though Vail Valley Voices falls under the umbrella of the Cultural Heritage Preservation & Programs, the effort began about eight years ago, when the Marmot Library Network gathered librar ians who were interested in digitizing archives. Jo Norris was one of the first to get involved at Vail Public Library. Vail’s first digital archive of Dick and Mary Pownall came online in 2016.

Vail’s archives will eventually be indexed in the Digital Public Library of America, which makes millions of materials from libraries, archives, museums and other cul tural organizations available to the public.

The digital archives allow longtime locals and newcomers alike to learn about the Valley’s history and strengthen that special connection we have with the area. In doing so, we can all play a part in preserving the Valley’s legacy, environment and soul.

“Why not know a little about the town you love?” Barnes asks. “There’s so much more than skiing in the way of art and culture. If it wasn’t for that history, we wouldn’t have anything we have now.” +

DISCOVER VIRTUALLY VAIL

Is the Ride

worth the risk?

The Reality of Life + Death in Our Winter Backcountry

By Laura Mills

It’s your day off, and Mother Nature has finally delivered a hefty snowstorm. Your crew meets at a new trailhead, surrounded by pillows of powder and trees weighed down with last night's delivery of the good stuff. Everyone’s switching their bindings, putting on their gear and getting ready for the ascent. With the amount of snow that fell last night, you all decide last minute that you’re going to commit to something steep. A few members of the crew have avalanche training, and pretty much everyone is qualified to handle this terrain.

AAfter what feels like hours of touring up a steep ridge, you all switch your gear to downhill as quickly as possible, grins on your faces, ready to eat up fresh powder. The first friend drops in, taking rich, deep turns. Yips of excite ment echo through the bowl below. You check the time, and while your eyes are off the slope, a slide is triggered with one of your best friends in the fall line. Sheer panic fills your body; a pit hits your stomach. You can see their bright jacket down below. By the grace of luck and the skin of their teeth, they skated out of the slide safely. You start ques tioning everything that happened that morning. Who checked reports? Did we check everyone’s gear? Does everyone have proper gear? Should we report this? The excitement of the first big win ter storm combined with a last-minute terrain change caused common sense to fly out the window.

Here, we’ve painted a picture that is

too often a reality. This time, with an outcome of no fatalities. It really sets in here that you and your friends may not always be so lucky …

Avalanche Education + Safety

In Colorado and surrounding states, we have access to a wide variety of knowl edgeable resources for avalanche safety conditions. “Colorado Information Ava lanche Center (CIAC), American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE), avalanche.org and Know Before You Go (KBYG.org) are fantastic resourc es and a great way to get your knowl edge base going,” shares Ethan Greene, director of CIAC. “The most important thing is to start somewhere. If your goal is to recreate in avalanche terrain, taking a course in the field with a professional is very helpful.”

Greene says that CIAC and other state agencies are now focusing on new ways to reach skiers and riders, social

media being a huge player. “We don’t want to prejudge people where they are; we just want to give them access to [information] and give them the opportunity to know more,” he explains. By leaning more on the reach of Insta gram, Greene feels they can access a young demographic looking to build the knowledge about avalanche terrain and mitigation of safety.

In the Vail Valley, we are always reach ing for the next big adventure; it’s part of the culture. Most of us do the training, take the classes, and we’ve been skiing our whole lives. We ride and hike these trails in the summer and slice through snow on them in the winter; these steep slopes are our home. According to avalanche.org with statistics from the CIAC, seven avalanche-related deaths happened in Colorado last season. If we think we’re well educated, why do these near-death experiences and fatalities continue to happen every year?

“We all do risky behavior. Even though you might be the most celebrated soccer mom on your block, do you text and drive? Rather than finger pointing, we really need to step back as a community and say ‘what exactly happened,’ and just embrace that we do live in a community where we encourage risky behavior,” emphasizes Kelli Rohrig, Vail local, lead AIARE instructor, head of avalanche ed ucation with Paragon Guides, co-founder of The Glide Project and backcountry ski heuristic researcher.

In anything, especially outdoor sports, as we progress in skill level, we want to push the envelope. More challenging terrain, in more remote areas, farther away from emergency resources — it all goes hand in hand.

As a seasoned patroller, previous CIAC forecaster, AIARE certified guide and in structor, Kreston Rohrig understands the thrill and indescribable joy that comes with skiing in avalanche terrain.

“Honestly, there's nothing more fun

than skiing a big, steep line in a foot of powder,” he shares. “But, choosing what day and what conditions are appropriate, that's the real challenge.”

Advice from the Experts

Having a safe day in avalanche terrain of the backcountry starts with being able to clearly identify and assess the risk of where you want to recreate.

“You can ski every day, all day, any time of year, be it high danger or low danger, but you have to choose appro priate terrain for reported conditions and manage the risk,” says Kreston Rohrig. “If you’re skiing big consequential avalanche terrain on a high danger day, that’s play ing Russian roulette — barely taking one bullet out of the gun.”

When assessing and pursuing risk, we have to think about the feedback loop that develops in our brain. If we do something and get hurt or encounter an avalanche, we remember and formulate decisions to reduce the risk the next time we pursue a similar event. With skiing in the back country, the feedback loop is often broken. Without digging a pit and truly uncovering what’s going on underneath, it’s hard to predict the outcome of what’s unfolding below you. “It’s easy to see a 30-foot wave and know it’s dangerous,” he adds. "It’s not always easy to see a complex snowpack structure and be able to apply fracture dynamics in real time.”

Gain knowledge and apply it. Check daily conditions. Make educated and safe decisions. Skiers and riders who have been victim to the wrath of avalanches have taken all these precautionary steps and still had a fatal day in the backcoun try … why? At some point, we need to recognize the role collective attitudes and cultural barriers play.

“There’s people who ski [avalanche terrain] every day and, 99 times out of 100, nothing happens, and that creates a pretty strong feedback loop that ‘we’re crushing it; we’re doing this right; we’ve got this.’ Those people certainly don’t want to be told they’re not doing it right,” says Kreston Rohrig.

Experience, unfortunately, doesn’t equal humility — a great thing to remember in any aspect of life but especially with skiing in the back country. Kelli Rohrig is someone who is quite accustomed to the egotism that can come along with backcountry knowledge. In her recent survey of skiers’ recovery and gear knowledge, specifically in the East Vail Chutes, she experienced a lot of snide remarks and rude interactions.

“It’s a hostile environment, and it’s just through culture. It’s been that way for 20 years,” she shares. “Back in the day, even when there were few skiers, it’s been an attitude of ‘this is my area, what are you doing here?’”

Community Outreach

When interviewing Kelli Rohrig for this piece, we discussed ways to educate East Vail skiers on improved safety practices on some of the state’s steepest slopes. “Truth be told, a lot of East Vail skiers just don’t want to hear it," she says. “Or fatality wise, if you’re new in town, you really have no idea how many fatalities have been there. It’s not like there’s a poster at the gate listing the fatalities; even if there was, I think someone would probably take it down.”

Kelli Rohrig has some great ideas, like breaking down price barriers for rescue classes and educating youth on proper risk assessment through initia tives like The Glide Project, to remind their elder peers that they’re making dicey decisions. Ultimately, the attitude around winter backcountry culture needs to shift and education on safety practices need to be more financially accessible to the community.

Snow sports are celebrated here in the winter, as they should be, as there are few things that replicate flying or floating the way skiing does. For many, the added challenge and exhilaration of backcountry skiing and riding offers even more of that life-affirming feeling of “why we live here.” Kelli Rohrig reminds us that backcountry skiing is not a death wish; it’s the decisions around it that can determine an outcome.

“This isn’t this terrible activity that people go out and die,” she says. “This is an activity that is actually incredibly good for people's mental health. It’s what saves me, summer and winter.”

As long as we have a backcountry to explore, people will climb it to ride steep slopes of untouched powder. It’s no secret that the snowpack is changing with our ever-warming climate, a reality that will continue to impact this commu nity and our winters in a very significant way. Perhaps, if we move together on a track of more knowledge and deeper reverence for the incredible forces of nature that are all around us, not only will we give more life and longevity to our adventurous Valley, but we’ll give it to the backcountry, too. +

A Visit to Ski Country’s Hollywood, USA

By Sandy Ferguson Fuller

IIf you have ever visited Hollywood and strolled along the stars on the Walk of Fame, you know the feeling of walking among greatness. It’s different, but much the same, when browsing the tributes to a select group of “Coloradans” who are honored at the Colorado Snowsports Museum (CSM) and Hall of Fame in Vail.

Each spring, five individuals who have contributed their talents, toil and time to the industry of skiing and snowboarding in the state are inducted into the group. These men and women live in Colorado; their personal achievements as athletes, entre preneurs, inventors, etc. have gained national or international attention, heightening Colorado’s image as a leader in snow sports innovation.

Several local Vail pioneers and Colorado ski industry leg ends were responsible for founding the original Colorado Ski Museum in May 1975. Here in Vail, the names of Pete Seib ert, Terry Minger, Robert Parker, Don Simonton, J.D. Abbott and Earl Clark evoke an admiration similar to Hollywood’s reverence for “star” celebrities like Muhammad Ali, Doris Day, John Lennon, Shirley Temple, Glenn Miller, Elvis Presley and Aspen’s John Denver!

As Town of Vail manager in 1975, Minger led the pilot group and recruited the support of ski leaders from the U.S. Forest

Service, National Ski Patrol, Colorado Ski Country USA and oth ers. You will learn about these visionaries during a visit to CSM, and most are included in the Hall of Fame.

To your Hall of Fame roster visit, add Stein Eriksen, Jake Bur ton Carpenter, Cindy Nelson, Howard Head, Pepi Gramsham mer, Dick Durrance, Gerald Ford, Diane Boyer, Renie Gorsuch, Billy Kidd, Jimmy Heuga, Chris Klug, Willy Schaeffler, Buddy Werner and so many others, and you’ll know that you’ve landed among the brightest stars of snowsports. Learn more about all of these extraordinary honorees at the museum.

The executive director of the museum, Jen Mason, reminds us, “You never know who you’re going to run into at the mu seum! From local visitors like Dr. Richard Steadman and Tess

Johnson to Aspen’s Chris Davenport and others … it’s always worth stopping by.”

The museum’s newly renovated location is located at the central Bridge Street exit to the Vail Village parking structure, more visible and accessible to the 75,000 guests welcomed each year. The exhibits, some interactive, entertain and educate tourists, school groups, private functions and locals who enjoy repeat visits to freshen up on ski and snowboarding history. The valuable arti facts and exhibits housed in the museum continue to grow, with personal dona tions from skier collections over 100 years old and from early snowboarders who popularized their sport.

Curator and director of collections Dana Mathios explains, “Our exhibits are built from an object driven perspective — letting the artifacts showcased tell the story of our shared history and heritage. Our expanding 15,000 artifact collection speaks to the personal stories behind what helped build the snow sports industry we all know and love today. It’s through donations to the museum that we’re able to share and preserve Colora do snowsports stories.”

A current staff effort is to gather epic photos from the public to celebrate Vail Mountain ski runs — as well as photos showing the rich history of the 10th Mountain Division — to add to the port folio of images in their exhibits.

Plan to spend quality time at this memorable place. It’s an anomaly in our famous destination resort town; admission is free to the public! There’s so much to see that you may want to step outside for some fresh air and the iconic view across the Covered Bridge to Vail Mountain. The gift store offers a selection of affordable treasures. Pick up classy souvenirs, clothes, unique décor, books, vintage ski posters and more, or shop online.

Airing continuously in CSM’s Theater, Climb to Glory is a 45-minute documen tary film produced by Warren Miller En tertainment in collaboration with CSM, which chronicles the legendary history of World War II’s 10th Mountain Division. From the training at Colorado’s Camp Hale to the dramatic victories on Italy’s

Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere, this is an entertaining and educational look back at these heroic mountain troopers. Narrated by Olympian freestyler and 2014 CSM inductee Jeremy Bloom and inspired by Warren Miller Athlete Chris Anthony, Climb to Glory highlights the 10th Mountain’s astounding impact on our country and the ski industry, while sharing signature Warren Miller film flair.

CSM houses a comprehensive display of snowboarding history, and it’s equally as complex and fascinating as skiing. Backcountry skiing and splitboarding are featured, as well as both original and contemporary equipment, safety infor mation and more.

Focused on ski racing and snowboard competition? An interactive timeline display of facts and artifacts chronicles competitions over 11 decades until today. Of course, Vail’s local celebrity, Mikaela Shiffrin, enjoys the current spotlight.

Love your modern boots, board, skis, bindings or accessories? Or, are you already looking to trade up? You may reconsider and gain an enhanced ap preciation for your gear when you view ski relics dating back to the 1860s. That’s when Scandinavian miners first strapped two pieces of wood onto their feet and tried to mosey down snowy, ungroomed mountains. You’ll marvel at the ability of these former athletes who accomplished such feats and skills with rudimentary equipment.

Fascinated by ski fashion? The muse um will take you back in time to the early 1900s with baggy knickers, itchy handknit Norwegian sweaters, wool skirts, fur hats and clunky leather lace boots. Synthetic stretch pants dominated after WWII. Neon colors painted the slopes in the 80s, and Levi’s were acceptable, although never practical. Plastic helmets, plastic boots, plastic goggles and plas tic-everything emerged, soon upgraded with improved materials. History repeats itself, and it’s fun to spot recurring trends and styles that come and go … most notably, one-piece suits, fur accessories, baggy trousers and even suspenders! By definition, this exhibit will continue to evolve and revolve with contemporary styles. Do you wonder what’s next?

Airing continuously in CSM’s Theater, Climb to Glory is a documentary film, which chronicles the legendary history of World War II’s 10th Mountain Division. From the training at Colorado’s Camp Hale to the dramatic victories on Italy’s Riva Ridge and Mount Belvedere, this is an entertaining and educational look back at these heroic mountain troopers. Narrated by Olympian freestyler Jeremy Bloom, Climb to Glory highlights the 10th Mountain’s astounding impact on our country and the ski industry, while sharing signature Warren Miller film flair.

members and non-members. Examples include Vail History Walking tours to ex plore the past/present town of Vail and “Through the Lens” in-person and virtual programs featuring renowned authors and speakers who touch on local and state-wide history and current events. CSM is also open by reservation to host private parties and weddings.

The Resource Center and off-site storage facility for CSM is located in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, with the Vail Museum location serving as the Public Gallery. Maintaining the separate resource space allows CSM to facilitate the documentation and preservation of the ever-expanding collection, also exhibit construction. The CSM current ly has artifacts on display in several other locations, like the Eagle County Airport and the Idaho Springs Heritage Museum and Visitor Center, and has worked with the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, Denver International Airport, The Governor’s Mansion and more. Mason is based in Vail, and Mathios works from Wheat Ridge.

CSM exceeds expectations as a rich, historical resource, a hallowed hall to celebrate great achievements, an entertaining venue to browse and to shop and, here’s the icing, an important part of CSM’s mission to offer programs to involve and educate the community about current issues and topics relevant to skiing and snowboarding. Most special events include a modest fee for CSM

CSM strives to reveal the past, but also to project forward. An example is the exhibit, Colorado Ski Resorts/ Vail’s DNA & Climate/ Into the Future. This informative presentation is highlighted by the interactive Ski Resorts Table, providing in-depth information about Colorado’s active ski areas, along with 30 “Lost Resorts.” It features current moun tain statistics, photos and videos, along with historical content on each resort. The “Vail’s DNA” portion of the exhibit tells the story of the birth and growth of the Vail Valley, from a small mountain village to a premier world ski and snow board destination. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, the exhibit touches on climate change and what it means for the future of snowsports.

CSM will be 50-years-old on May 23, 2025. In just over two years, there will be new innovations, information and industry challenges, new history and artifacts and Hall of Famers to feature at the Museum. Their broad mission will continue: celebrate Colorado snowsports by telling stories that educate and inspire others to seek adventure. +

ON HOUSING DEPTH

By Lisa Blake

Protecting and Growing Vail Valley Housing Options, Now and for Future Generations

TThere’s an estimated shortfall of 5,900 affordable housing units in Eagle County right now. According to a recent impact report by Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley, average single-family home prices in most Colorado resort counties have doubled since 2015, and the average weekly wage in Eagle County in 2022 was $1,249, while the average home sale price was $2.2 million.

“The math really doesn’t work,” says Habitat for Humanity development director Elyse Howard. “The people who make up the fabric of our community cannot afford to live here.”

This has been a disheartening fact in the Valley for a while now, with many families doubling and tripling up in small confines and service industry workers stacking roommates in bedrooms to make rent. But, tides are shifting, and what used to be a housing crisis among hotel housekeepers and dishwashers has percolated to bank tellers, police officers and teachers — the backbone of commu nity services.

“They all deserve to live where they work,” Howard says, pointing out that outlier communities like Eagle and Gypsum aren’t affordable anymore. “We want to root them in the community and keep them here. And, we’re locked be tween Vail Pass and Glenwood Canyon where it’s increasingly difficult to get a toehold to own a home.”

Building a Better Life

In 2021, Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley broke ground on its 100th home for hardworking locals, providing a path for safe and affordable housing. Habitat homeowners are educators, law enforcement officers, tradespeople,

healthcare, grocery store and resort employees who make the Eagle County wheels spin. Habitat’s track to home ownership is an in-depth process, re quiring hard work, time and dedication in a partnership that includes perform ing “sweat equity,” or helping to build your own home or the homes of others. Sweat equity can also include taking homeownership classes or performing volunteer work in a Habitat ReStore. Habitat for Humanity goes one step further and helps new homeowners pre pare for the ins and outs of homeown ership by offering classes on personal

finance, mortgages, maintenance and upkeep of homes, and much more. “A Habitat home with an affordable mort gage gives financial freedom to families and helps build intergenerational wealth,” says Howard. “No longer consumed with working two or three jobs, families have time to spend together, helping create a better community for all.”

Raising her two children in an RV with out running water, unsure if she would have to move again, Andrea Bryzicki became a Habitat for Humanity Vail Val ley homeowner and set herself and her family up for success.

Andrea Bryzicki and her daughters moved into Stratton Flats a year ago. She is an early childhood educator at Eagle Valley Elementary School.

“My home allowed me to become a single mom, stay on my own and take care of my kids in a very safe place,” she says. “It’s life changing.”

As she settled into her home, Bry zicki continued her education, working towards her Early Childhood Director’s license, while working full time in the Ea gle County School District. “If your basic needs are met, you can be a functioning part of society and give back so much more,” she says.

A Community That Cares

It takes a village to keep Habitat for

Humanity prospering. Tremendous dona tions from local businesses and leaders — including countertops from Gallegos, insulation from Green Sky (whose owner actually grew up in a Habitat home) and wood from Alpine Lumber — helps Habi tat erect safe, solid homes.

In 2020 alone, 50 businesses donated $849,715 in goods and services. “We have this really great, large group of sup porters and stakeholders,” Howard says. “That’s something that’s really special about our community.” An incredible amount of volunteer hours, along with funding from fundraising and grants

helps fuel Habitat’s efforts. However, demand continues to outweigh supply.

“We’ve been doing this work in this community since ’95, and it’s getting hard er and harder to put down roots here,” says Howard. “The need is there, and we’re just really trying to meet the moment and keep more families here long term.”

New Housing on the Horizon

In a once-in-a-generation affordable housing investment, Colorado received $400 million in government funding at the end of 2020. A task force formed last summer to research affordable hous

Grace Avenue: Groundbreaking ceremony for the collaboration between Eagle County School District and Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley.

12 homes were built on Grace Avenue (property donated by the school district) in Gypsum. In 2021, all 12 families had moved in.

ing throughout the state, and, Howard says, it’s time for Eagle County to take advantage of as much of that funding as possible and double down on their Habitat building efforts.

Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley aims to double its impact by 2024, building 40 new homes and recycling six homes for qualified families. The organization is working closely with Kevin O’Donnell, president of Beck Building Company in Buena Vista, on a modular construction pilot program to lead the way on shorter home build times. In a partnership with the Eagle County School District, Habitat and O’Donnell constructed 16 homes along Third Street in Eagle, where 75% of the development is dedicated to school district employees.

At Stratton Flats in Gypsum, Habitat for Humanity Vail Valley built 40 homes between 2012 and 2019. In 2021, Habitat Vail Valley broke ground on eight addition al homes. Upon completion, there will be 72 Habitat homes and four remaining sites in inventory at Stratton Flats.

A Brand New ReStore

Habitat opened a new ReStore a block from Costco in Gypsum in June, offering a place for the community to donate gently used furniture, appliances and materials, which provides a revenue stream back into area Habitat projects. The new retail space is located in the former Mountain Living furniture store and features everything from leather couches to artwork to micro waves and gas stoves. +

GET INVOLVED WITH HABITAT

• Volunteer at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

• Donate gently used furnishings and appliances to the ReStore.

• Volunteer to help build a home.

• Donate money, property or building materials.

APPLY FOR HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Habitat’s homeowner selection is managed at the local level. For more information, please call 970.748.6718 or email info@habitatvailvalley.org

PHOTO BY SHERRI INNIS/SHERRI INNIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Skating Heart with

The Vail Mountaineer Hockey Club Continues to Grow

By Kimberly Nicoletti

IIce hockey is a fast-paced, team-oriented game that teaches kids life skills like responsibility, respect and discipline. But, the biggest draw seems to be the bonds both kids — and their parents — develop.

“It’s unique, in a way, to other sports in that everyone comes together; even the parents are close. There’s an excite ment around hockey, because it’s very fast-paced, so everyone’s cheering and involved in the same goal,” says local hockey mom Denise Rahe.

Her son, 14-year-old Nathan Rahe, jokes that when you’re stuck in a cold rink together, you tend to get close, but the friendships extend beyond the arena.

“Hockey becomes secondary to the bonds they have with their teammates. It’s all about the experience — playing knee hockey, pizza parties, staying with their friends in a hotel,” says Kristi Scheidegger, executive director of Vail Mountaineer Hockey Club.

Many kids get involved because their dad, sibling or, in the case of 17-year-old Emily Law, grandma played hockey. Law enjoys the team aspects, like “having team dinners and rocking out to music in the locker room before games and encouraging team members to do their best and seeing a bunch of cool places in Colorado,” she says.

The hockey community also acts as a support system.

“Hockey was the one thing that always kept me going,” says college-student Jayden Mather. “On the days when I was having a really hard time at school, all I could think about was that I had hockey practice later on, and that would give me the motivation to keep going. Being on the ice with my team, the camaraderie, the fun environment, the adrenaline, the focus and challenge of being a goalie, the intensity of the game, having something that was chal lenging and exciting to put my attention on and get my mind off school were all things that really helped me.”

Last season, the hockey community showed its strength after 11-year-old Lewis Browning died tragically in the Lionshead parking structure. Less than 12

hours later, his team manager and coaches made the difficult decision between “staying home and grieving alone or being the cohesive team that Lewis loved and traveling to their upcoming tournament to grieve together, share stories together, cry together and skate together,” says team manager Ande Murray.

Browning was the goalie, so, to pay re spects, his team played with an empty net for the first three minutes of the game.

“They played their hearts out,” Murray says. “They played for Lewis. They did not let one puck cross center ice. It was heartbreaking and beautiful at the same moment to see the fortitude, persever

ance and pure love they showed for their missing friend and for one other; it was truly inspiring. We parents needed to be together as much as our kids did. There wasn’t a dry eye in the rink.”

Support, flowers and condolences poured in from teams across the state, and hockey sticks throughout the com munity still read: Play for Lewis #30.

“The Mountaineer organization is a family, and when tragedy sadly and unexpectedly struck us last January, every single coach, player, parent and sibling stepped up to help in ways that I can’t even put into words,” Murray says. “The Mountaineer teams contin

PHOTO BY TRENT SWANSON/MTN TOWN HOCKEY PICS

The hockey community showed its strength after 11-year-old goalie Lewis Browning died tragically in the Lionshead parking structure.

ued to do what Lewis loved for the rest of the season: play hockey, in honor of their teammate.”

Growing Numbers

With the Avs winning the Stanley Cup last season, the 2022 U.S. Olympic Women’s Hockey Team’s silver med al and local efforts to make the game more accessible in the Vail Valley, Vail Mountaineer Hockey Club continues to expand. This season, it added three more competitive travel teams and has seen a 171% increase in its girl’s program since 2018. About five years ago, Vail Moun taineers’ board of directors made it a priority to bring more girls into the game.

“Our numbers are growing, and hock ey is growing nationwide,” Scheidegger says, crediting the National Hockey League’s nationwide Learn to Play pro gram, as well as Mountain Recreation and Vail Recreation District, which introduce kids to hockey and make it affordable. “We offer the lowest hockey registration fees in Colorado because of our amazing fundraising and sponsors. Because of our incredible network, we subsidize 40% of costs.”

Vail Mountaineers relies on about 40 volunteer coaches, most of whom are parents who played hockey within a range of levels, from high school to professional leagues.

“They’re more invested than a profes sional coach, because their kids are on the team,” says director of hockey Dave Bishop. “We have great support from the community and the parents. This program wouldn’t exist without it.”

The team’s biggest fundraiser is the Vail Sportsmanship Tournament, now in its 43rd year. It takes place over four week ends in November, with teams at different levels and ages traveling from Nevada, Arizona, Texas and regions of Colorado. Last September, Vail Mountaineers held its fourth annual Avalanche weekend, where former Colorado Avalanche players came to Vail for golf tournaments, meet and greets, youth clinics and a game against a local, semi-pro team.

But, despite the robust fundraising,

volunteerism and enthusiasm, the local organization still has one main challenge: securing enough ice time. Between fig ure skating, public skating and other rec reational ice times, it’s tough to schedule 14 teams three times a week.

“We have growing pains, so we have to work around them and get creative,” Scheidegger says.

That mostly involves two teams prac ticing on half the ice in the same hour slot, or, during 90-minute slots, each practicing on full ice for 30 minutes and sharing ice for 30 minutes.

Enriching Kids

Like all sports, hockey encourages not just athleticism, but also personal development.

“The sport is always challenging you to be better,” says Jayden Mather.

“Hockey is the motivating force for them to wake up every morning to go for a run and then work out before school and to bike to school and back and play different sports in the off-season, such as lacrosse, football, cross-country and soccer, so they can stay fit and in top shape for the hockey season. This motivation has resulted in tremendous self-discipline,” Jayden Mather’s mother, Melissa, says. “It has taught my kids to set goals for themselves: fitness goals, mastering new skills goals, self-improve ment goals. It has taught them to be a team player, to always strive for the win and to show sportsmanship regardless of

the outcome of the game.”

The club emphasizes good sportsman ship, rather than winning — though last season, four of its 11 teams earned the title of league champion.

“We try very hard to not make it a winor-nothing mentality,” Scheidegger says. “We’re here to develop every kid into not just a hockey player but also a good teammate, and that translates to being a good classmate in school and a good co-worker later in life.”

Melissa Mather’s 14-year-old son, Cameron, says hockey has helped him build social skills, and, “It definitely brings me joy.”

It also builds confidence.

“It taught me skills, but it also remind ed me of the things I could do and the skills I have that I’m an important part of the team,” Law says. “It’s a very selfless game.”

In fact, success depends on teamwork.

“It’s not a sport where one person can dominate, so you have to work togeth er, and you get a great bond with your teammates,” Bishop says.

As a result, it hones communication skills.

“You have to be able to communicate with people mid-play under stressful situations,” says U-14 player Davis Place, adding that those communication skills “help if you have a bad grade — you can go talk to your teacher, and it’s a little less stressful.”

And, like all the other hockey play ers, 11-year-old Jules Mather has learned self-discipline, which she notes includes “having to be on time, not for getting your gear, being respectful in the locker rooms and being kind to others.”

She plays on the co-ed team, “because it’s more of a challenge for me,” she says, adding that hockey “helps you with med itating and visualizing, and you can use that in your everyday life.”

So, if you have an urge to lace up a pair of skates, just beware; it might transform you.

“Once you’ve tried hockey,” Melissa Mather says, “it is hard not to have it become your life.” +

The Mountaineer organization is a family, and when tragedy sadly and unexpectedly struck us last January, every single coach, player, parent and sibling stepped up to help in ways that I can’t even put into words.

Connie + Anthony Mazza

had their first child together in July. Plus, they plan to open a second Village Bagel location in Gypsum by early 2023. And, they do it all in the name of community.

“The friends we’ve made in this town are our family now,” Anthony Maz za shares. “Even our employees and customers make lasting impressions in our lives and have helped teach us the importance of being earnest. We treat every introduction as an opportunity to connect on a deeper level. It’s in these ordinary moments of connection that we can lift one another up and discover commonalities otherwise unseen.”

The Mazzas describe their fulfilling life in the Valley as one with depth, overflowing with happy memories and loving relationships.

ter begin deliciously slow, as she puts it. “Life has certainly unfolded in great ways since I became a mother to Zosia. We are both in and out of sleep as she nurses. I make my coffee and a nourishing meal. My daughter and I take the dog on the trails behind our home and let her run free. I trot alongside my big four-legged girl and the three of us breathe in the fresh mountain air and feel the dry sun hit our faces. Then, it’s time to check in with our work family, the people running our restaurants and the diligent hands behind each bagel rolled in the Vail Valley. They are the heartbeat of our restaurants and show up each day with

“ The best part about living in the Vail Valley is the abundance of activities that make you feel alive and truly in the flow of the present moment,” Connie Mazza says. “Whether we’re hiking up mountains or floating down rivers or working in our restaurants alongside like-minded indi viduals, there’s always an opportunity to make strong connections and to be your most authentic self.”

Connie and Anthony Mazza started Village Bagel — known for its fresh, handrolled bagels made the old-fashioned way — out of their Vail Valley home. Six years later, the thriving brick-and-mor tar shop has become an Edwards staple for its authentic, New York-style bagels.

Anthony Mazza moved to Vail over 20 years ago from Pittsburgh. He is a chef, restaurateur, professional fly-fishing guide, snowmobile enthusiast and father of two. Connie Mazza moved to Colo rado 16 years ago from New York. She has worked in restaurants all her life and is passionate about old-fashioned food traditions and mountain town hospitality.

The thriving duo recently acquired the Minturn Saloon last December and

“When I think of the word depth, I think of showing up in the most genuine and vulnerable way for myself, my friends, em ployees and the community. Each new day is an opportunity to strengthen bonds, live adventurously and make a positive impact,” Anthony Mazza says.

A day in their life looks something like this: Anthony Mazza wakes up before the sun to get his boat ready and fishing rods rigged up to meet clients somewhere off the beaten path. “I spend the first half of the day submerged in nature, sharing my passion and expertise with those on my boat, opening my world up to strangers in an attempt to make an impact. After a day on the river catching and releasing fish, I head to the bagel shop to check on the team and reset for my second ‘job.’ Next, I’m off to chef privately in a beautiful home up in Mountain Star for my yearround family. I create depth as a chef by cooking with my heart and soul and by us ing the best ingredients — local whenever possible. After I leave my client’s home, I go home and catch my daughter, Zosia, for story and bath time. On my days off, I like to go fly fishing with my son, Tucker, or on overnight floats/camping trips with my family,” he says.

For Connie Mazza, days with her daugh

ANTHONY MAZZA

the same passion and intention that my husband and I had when we began: make the community happy through good food and warm hospitality.”

She says when they first conceptual ized these eateries, she was the first to arrive and last to leave. “Now, I see that Village Bagel was my first baby,” she ex plains. “It needed me around all the time to grow big and strong. Both at work and at home, I am proud to feel like a mother in her truest form. After checking in with our team and catching up with custom ers, I take a Pilates class or meet a friend for lunch and a hike. Then, I go home and wind down with my family, always mak ing time to express gratitude for another day in good health and spirits.” +

Keep up with the Mazzas at villagebagel.co and minturnsaloon.com.

PHOTOS BY KELLIE MCKENZIE

by lexi reich

When I think of the word depth, I think of showing up in the most genuine and vulnerable way for myself, my friends, employees and the community.

VAIL

Aprés Cafe

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

4695 Racquet Club Drive, Vail 970.688.5437 aprescafevail.com

Chasing Rabbits

An experiential dining and entertainment space created to delight and intrigue a new generation of Vail’s guests and residents. 141 East Meadow Drive, Vail chasingrabbitsvail.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 Street, Vail 970.470.4803 falllinevail.com

Margie’s Haas

Contemporary Alpine cuisine with a fresh approach to classic recipes and ingredients. 970.476.4444 thehythevail.com/margies

Montauk Seafood Grill

Warm, intimate restaurant and bar offering refined surf 'n' turf and an extensive wine list. 549 East 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 East Meadow Drive, Vail 970.476.9026 pazzospizza.com

Revel Lounge

The revelry of après is celebrated with hand-curated craft cocktails and elegant shareables. 970.476.4444 thehythevail.com/revel

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 Street, 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 Street, 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 East Beaver Creek Boulevard, #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 East Beaver Creek Boulevard, 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 Boulevard, Avon 970.748.9463 vin48.com

MINTURN

Sunrise Minturn

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

132 Main Street, Minturn 970.827.5353 sunriseminturn.com

EDWARDS

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 Boulevard, #104, Edwards 970.926.1393 drunkengoatco.com

Lauren’s Kitchen

Grab n' Go & Catering

Fresh-made comfort food with dietary-restric tive options available.

275 Main Street, C106, Edwards 970.446.6917 laurenskitchenedwards.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 fash ioned way. Schmears, savory bagel sandwich es 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 Street, Eagle 970.328.6220 elsegundoeagle.com

Inner Light Juice

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

115 East 2nd Street, 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 Avenue, Unit C, Eagle 970.337.9900 pazzospizza.com

DECEMBER

Vail Film Festival

Vail, CO • December 1-4, 2022

The Vail Film Festival is produced by the Colo rado Film Institute, a nonprofit arts organi zation dedicated to showcasing independent film and supporting independent filmmakers. The 2022 festival will screen feature films, shorts, documentaries and student films. vailfilmfestival.com

Xfinity Birds of Prey World Cup Race

Beaver Creek, CO • December 2-4, 2022

The Beaver Creek Xfinity Birds of Prey Audi FIS Ski World Cup Super G, Downhill and Giant Slalom races generally take place at the beginning of December. This year’s event is scheduled to include live music, beer tastings, ski films, parties and more. bcworldcup.com

Vail’s Kris Kringle Market

Vail, CO • December 8-11, 2022

Get into the holiday spirit and head to Vail Village for the Kris Kringle Market! As you stroll through Vail Village, enjoy shopping at the market festooned with greenery, Europe an trim and holiday cheer! You’ll find unique, made-in-Colorado items for your holiday gifts. discovervail.com

EagleARTS ARTwalk

Eagle, CO • December 9, 2022

Presented by EagleARTS and the downtown business community, the EagleARTS ARTwalk showcases charming galleries, shops and restaurants offering art exhibitions, live music, sales and specials for a fun evening out on Broadway Street in historic downtown Eagle. eaglearts.org

Vail Skating Festival Ice Spectacular

Vail, CO • December 23, 2022

This year’s festival features Nathan Chen in his only Colorado appearance since his 2022 Olympic Victory! Also starring four additional Olympians, including Kaitlin Hawayek and JeanLuc Baker, plus seasoned ice skating profession als, make sure to get your tickets in advance! vailskatefest.com

Family Day at Golden Peak

Vail, CO • December 28, 2022

Be a part of Ski & Snowboard Club Vail’s complimentary Family Fun Day on Golden Peak! This fun day includes duals race and ski around on lower Golden Peak in the morning and ski around on Golden Peak Expansion in the afternoon, plus complimentary après. A ski pass or lift ticket is required. skiclubvail.org

Winterfest

Vail, CO • December 2022

Wander through an illuminated ice installation in the Vail Village area! The 15th Annual Vail Winterfest returns with 20 ice structures for the public eye. Make sure to check out this free community event! discovervail.com

JANUARY

Rocky Mountain SkiFest

Avon, CO • January 10, 2023

The Rocky Mountain Ski Fest and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation are uniting to find answers to save children's lives. The two-day event includes an intimate and exclusive con cert by nationally acclaimed country artists and Grammy award-winning songwriters, as well as a fun ski day with the celebrities and kids. rockymtnskifest.com

Winter Culinary Weekend

Beaver Creek, CO • January 20-23, 2023

Enjoy an incredible weekend with gourmet meals and a stunning, scenic background. The Winter Culinary Weekend provides an opportunity to mix and mingle with celebrity guest chefs, get to know world-renowned Beaver Creek host chefs, sip on exquisite cocktails and wines, and revel in endless hours of phenomenal skiing. beavercreek.com

Vail Cup — Moguls

Vail, CO • January 21, 2023

Join Ski & Snowboard Club Vail for the first Steadman Clinic Vail Cup of the season for children born in 2007 and younger competing in a moguls event! A ski pass or lift ticket is required. More details to come. vailcup.com

Arrowhead Skimo & Uphill

Avon, CO • January 2023

The Arrowhead Skimo & Uphill, now in its third year, features an uphill and skimo com petition that racers can choose from. Partici pants will ascend approximately 1,700 vertical feet and just under 2 miles from the base of Arrowhead Village to the top of Arrow Bahn Express Lift. Dates for January 2023 TBA. vailrec.com

Snowshoe Races Series

Beaver Creek, CO • January-March 2023

This series of races returns with multiple options to choose from. Compete in a 3, 5 or 10k race and then participate in post-race activities. Whether you're running for a medal or for fun, come out and enjoy the beauty of snowshoeing through an incredible setting. beavercreek.com

FEBRUARY

Snowshoe for Peru 5K

Eagle, CO • February 4, 2023

This 5K snowshoe run works to support Cora zón de Esperanza, a nonprofit that provides hope to orphaned children, at-risk teens and impoverished women in Northern Peru. corazondeesperanza.org

NBS Black Ski Summit

Vail, CO • February 4-11, 2023

You don't want to miss the 2023 NBS Black Ski Summit in Vail, Colorado. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the NBS Summit, there will be tons of great activities planned throughout the week. eventbrite.com

Vail Cup — Giant Slalom

Vail, CO • February 19, 2023

Join Ski & Snowboard Club Vail for the second Steadman Clinic Vail Cup of the season for children born in 2007 and younger competing in a giant slalom event! A ski pass or lift ticket is required. More details to come. vailcup.com

Our

Planet Live in Concert

Beaver Creek, CO • February 23, 2023

This specially curated reimagining of the Netflix series will take you on a journey across our planet like you’ve never seen it before. Featuring favorite scenes and highlights from the Our Planet series, Our Planet Live in Con cert will tour international arenas. Get your tickets now! vilarpac.org

coveredbridgevail.com

Meadow Mountain Skimo Vail, CO • February 2023

This ski mountaineering race will have your blood flowing in cool temps! The course is an approximately 2-mile loop with 800 vertical feet of elevation gain. Racers will begin and finish on the bench just above the Meadow Mountain parking lot and start up the open slope to the looker's right. vailrec.com

Talons Challenge Presented by Helly Hansen

Beaver Creek, CO • February 2023

Challenge yourself with this vertical foot chal lenge! For the first time in its 20-year history, guests will have the option of two days that weekend to challenge themselves to complete 14 runs with 26,226 vertical feet. vail.com

Vail Mountain Winter Uphill Vail, CO • February 2023

The annual Vail Mountain Winter Uphill Race returns for skiers, snowboarders and winter runners to tackle 2,200 vertical feet of groomed trails to reach Eagle’s Nest at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead. Sign up online today to brave the incline and cold during this challenging race! vailrec.com

MARCH

Project Funway

Edwards, CO • March 4, 2023

This signature fundraiser is one of the most well-attended and entertaining evenings of the year, raising money to support the Ed ucation Foundation of Eagle County. Check out the website for updated information on the event. efec.org

Vail Cup — Giant Slalom

Vail, CO • March 25, 2023

Join Ski & Snowboard Club Vail for the final Steadman Clinic Vail Cup of the season for children born in 2007 and younger competing in the giant slalom event! A ski pass or lift ticket is required. More details to come. vailcup.com

Shamrock Shuffle

Vail, CO • March 2023

Join this community event and race for a 5 or 10k! The Shamrock Shuffle includes these two races along with a raffle and opportunity to win fantastic prizes. discovervail.com

APRIL

Cirque FLIP Fabrique Presents: Muse

Beaver Creek, CO • April 5

Having performed extensively in an inter national setting for more than a million spectators, Cirque FLIP Fabrique continues to fascinate audiences worldwide with perfor mances that are equally as fun and accessible for everyone as they are visually stunning. vilarpac.org

Taste Of Vail

Vail, CO • April 5-8

The Taste of Vail in April showcases more than 30 of Vail’s finest chefs and restaurateurs alongside the owners and winemakers from nearly 50 of the country’s top wineries. Get your tickets online today! tasteofvail.com

Vail Easter Egg Hunt

Vail, CO • April 2023

Gather your little ones for this wholesome holiday event. The Vail Easter Egg Hunt will have everyone in your family excited for the Easter Bunny’s arrival with special prizes and special eggs! vailrec.com

MAY

Blues, Brews & BBQ

Beaver Creek, CO • May 2023

This signature event features all of the best music, beverages and barbeque! Blues, Brews & BBQ offers fun for the whole family with live music performances, fantastic food vendors and, of course, the Backyard BBQ competition! beavercreek.com

Dynafit Vail Trail Running Series

Vail, CO • May 2023

Colorado's most iconic trail running series, The Dynafit Vail Trail Running Race Series has become a must-do race series. Expect well-marked routes, fully-stocked aid stations, experienced volunteers and courses that are challenging for the elites and enjoyed by beginner trail runners. Register for the entire series, or choose from individual races. vailrec.com

SunsetLIVE!

Avon, CO • May 2023

SunsetLIVE! is uniquely Avon and the perfect venue to wind down your weekend, so gather your friends and family, bring a lawn chair and picnic basket, and prepare to enjoy a relaxing Rocky Mountain sunset with great music. avon.org

“It's not the length of life, But the depth of it.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson