WHEN WINTER ARRIVES in the mountains, connection becomes our most essential comfort. It’s found in the warmth of shared meals, the laughter that echoes off snow-covered peaks and the quiet assurance that we are part of something larger than ourselves. Our theme this issue —“kinship” — is what threads us together through the seasons, the celebrations and even the storms.
At Covered Bridge, we are constantly inspired by how the people of this Valley lift one another up and find belonging in the shared rhythm of mountain life. This issue gathers stories that celebrate those bonds, from creative collaborations and acts of care to moments of simple joy.
You’ll find it in the Hygge Dinner, captured on our cover — a visual feast of warmth, candles, conversation and connection. You’ll feel it in “Voices of the Valley,” where locals Christopher Green, Michael Holton and Kordi Schmidt share what kinship means to them. In “Set Your Community Table,” writer Chloe Wasserstrom reminds us that gathering, even around a simple meal, builds the roots of belonging.
Kinship shines in acts of service and stewardship, too: the compassionate
The bond of community is not the absence of difference, but the presence of belonging.
Brené Brown
work of Eagle County Animal Shelter & Services; Vail Health charitable funds supporting those in need; and sustainability efforts like Restore the Gore and cleaning up ski wax.
It’s also present in creativity and entrepreneurship, with articles highlighting Mountain Girl Creations, The Grazing Fox, Ruggs Benedict and more, where local makers and designers pour heart into craft and community. Even stories of play and adventure, with tips on bringing your dog into the backcountry and travel inspiration outside of the state, reminding us that connection thrives in movement and exploration.
Every page reflects the relationships that make life in these mountains extraordinary. Whether it’s sharing a cup of coffee, a powder day or a dream, kinship lives in how we show up for one another.
As you read, may you feel both the intimacy and expanse of this Valley community — the way our lives intersect, overlap and strengthen with each shared moment. Here’s to gathering often, caring deeply and walking each other home.
In Gratitude,
Kim Fuller with Bobby L’Heureux + baby Emery and Pepper pup
Jaunt Media Collective jauntmediacollective.com
Publisher Jaunt Media Collective
Editor-In-Chief
Kim Fuller
Managing Editor Lexi Marshall
Creative Director
Chelsea Connolly
Creative Consultant
Kitty Nicholason
Partnerships
Bobby L’Heureux
Community Engagement Coordinator
Chloe Wasserstrom
Contributors
Zehren And Associates, Paula Bartosiewicz, Lisa Blake, Christy Buster, Tom Cohen, 11 Eleven Creatives, Liam Doran, Barry Eckhaus, Kaitlin Emig, Carly Finke, Kim Fuller, Sandy Ferguson Fuller, Joel Hazelton, Clare J. Hefferren, Courtney Holden, Laura Lieff, Lexi Marshall, Kari Mohr, Nisha Louise Photography, Ali & Garrett Photography, Rob Prechtl, Becca Saulsberry, Analisa Shah, Frankie Sheridan, Lu Snyder, Dominique Taylor, Irene Middleman Thomas, Ali Vagnini, Madison Warshawsky, Chloe Wasserstrom, Jennifer Weintraub, Sophie Zhai
Cover Photo
Hygge Dinner photo by Paula Bartosiewicz. Courtesy of Hygge Life.
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PHOTO BY SANDY FERGUSON FULLER
40 FAMILY + COMMUNITY
+ Vail Health: Investing in More Than Medicine
+ Finding Kinship in the Art of Collecting
43 GRAND OUTDOORS Gains for Gore Creek
44 NOURISH
+ Restaurant Spotlight: Capitol Public House, Eagle
+ Restaurant Spotlight: Sweet Basil, Vail
+ Local Column: Eat With Your Hands
+ Recipe from The Crêpe Girl
52 CHEERS
Cocktail Feature: Bully Ranch Mudslide
54 BOOK CLUB
+ All Through the Crown by Rachel Glowacki
+ Eat Post Like by Emily Arden Wells
58 ART + MUSIC
The Kinship of Music + Mind: Where Sound Meets Science
60 STYLE FOR THE SEASON
More is More: The Art of Stylish Excess
66 MAKER
Mountain Girl Creations
68 ROAD TRIP
Taos Ski Valley for Every Traveler
72 GETAWAY
Finding Kinship Between Adventure + Culture in the Sonoran Desert
96 LIVE LIKE A LOCAL
Mark Koelker: From Local Slopes to Global Contests
98 EVENTS
Winter + Spring 2025-26
100 DINING GUIDE
Eat Local
102 PARTING SHOT
Illustration by Sandy Ferguson Fuller
1. Jennifer Weintraub Writer + Photographer @the.outdoorista
13. Chloe Wasserstrom Writer + Community Engagement @chlowass
14. Dominique Taylor Freelance Photojournalist + Writer @dominiquetaylorphotography
Q+A Alexandra Gove
Hygge
Life
What inspired this Hygge Dinner featured on the cover (and others you host), and how does this reflect the spirit of kinship?
We actually started hosting Hygge Dinners before we even opened the shop and cafe. It was our first iteration of this soulful passion project we call Hygge Life. We wanted to create an experience and atmosphere that brought people a true hygge moment. Our mission was creating a gathering that allowed everyone around the table to reach a state of true contentment, ease, pleasure and enjoyment with each other — a.k.a. hygge or a feeling of kinship. These dinners all have a unique storyline: the six senses of hygge, making memories or, in this case, the human instinct and need to gather around the fire. Over the years, we have
partnered with many chefs, musicians, florists, bartenders and storytellers that help us bring our mission to life. The gathering of minds and hearts to create these dinners has given us moments of kinship that we’ll never forget.
The cover image captures such a feeling of warmth and connection can you tell us about the atmosphere that evening and what made it special?
On an early spring evening, we gathered around the table in our showroom for a very special Hygge Dinner. Louise Varre, the Swedish founder of Eldvarm was visiting from Paris, and her beautifully designed Emma Lanterns and new brass Lucie Candleholders lit up the table with a warm glow. Throughout the dinner, Louise spoke to us about the history and importance of fire and its influence on human survival, growth and connection. I speak for everyone at the table, that we were all moved by her words and life slowed down for a moment. We felt what she so eloquently expressed ... "for me, lighting a candle or a fire has the
effect of lowering the sound of life, and if I am lucky, it may even slow it down for a moment.” We set each place setting with a candle and match and at the beginning of each Hygge Dinner and we encourage everyone to light their candle communally marking the moment.
Ethereal florals adorned the tables sprouting from Eldvarm Emma Lanterns, and firewood elegantly floated overhead. The table was intentionally set and designed to reflect the intimate feeling of gathering around the fire — an act we have been partaking in since the beginning of humankind. The Forage Sisters cooked four courses over the flame and each was accompanied with a delicious wine pairing. The menu was served family-style to encourage connection and conversation. It was lovely to see platters passed and smiles exchanged as everyone excitedly anticipated tasting each delicious course.
Stories were told over candlelight and a nourishing, warm meal was shared by all. It was a true evening of hygge!
Hygge is all about finding beauty and comfort in togetherness. How do you hope gatherings like this one inspire your guests and the broader community? Beyond our Vail showroom, we also invite guests to join us at our cafe for seasonal dinners and special events. These gatherings are an opportunity for us to create an immersive hygge experience, and to share simple ways that our guests can recreate that feeling in their own everyday lives with family and friends. We hope that our guests take this experience with them and feel that they have sufficient tools and inspiration to plan gatherings and set the table for their loved ones with the intention of cultivating a genuine hygge moment. +
hyggelife.com
BY
PHOTO
PAULA BARTOSIEWICZ
Alpine Co-Hosts
Boutique Luxury Rental Management for Vail Valley’s Finest Homes
High in the Colorado mountains, where design-forward homes meet worldclass terrain, Alpine Co-Hosts has crafted a new standard for luxury rental management. Founded by Vail Valley local Matthew Tracy, the boutique company manages vacation properties created for elevated mountain living — not homes that would ever serve as year-round local housing. These are second homes designed for beauty, comfort and lifestyle, and Alpine Co-Hosts ensures they remain exceptional.
Local Roots, Luxury Focus
After more than a decade in the property-management world, Tracy recognized a clear need: high-end homeowners wanted to participate in the booming short-term rental market without sacrificing the value, privacy or care of their investment. Large national firms could offer reach, but not the personal connection or consistency these homes required.
Alpine Co-Hosts fills that gap with a boutique, hospitality-driven model grounded in local knowledge. “Every home we bring on has an Alpine Co-Hosts touch,” Tracy says. “We treat it like our own.”
As a native of Colorado based in Vail, Tracy owns long-term rental properties that primarily provide employee housing for local businesses. Additionally, he designs, builds and maintains
high end single-family homes in Missouri, where his wife Kimberly and her family are from. Tracy says this local involvement informs his investment strategies in Missouri.
“Recognizing the need to skip traditional hotel accommodations, I created my own path of entrepreneurship by transforming my investments into vacation rentals,” shares Tracy. “I partner with travel nurse agencies, local hospital doctors, architects and military personnel to ensure that my properties meet a wide array of housing needs.”
High-End Vacation Homes, Curated With Intention
The company is selective about the residences it represents. Their portfolio includes mountain chalets, architectural new-builds, penthouse residences and secluded alpine estates. This intentional curation allows Alpine Co-Hosts to maintain a consistent standard of excellence. Each property is prepared and managed to meet the expectations of discerning guests, all while preserving the integrity of the home for its owners.
Alpine Co-Hosts provides a full suite of luxury-focused services:
• Marketing & Distribution: Professional photography, elevated listings and placement on premium platforms including
• Housekeeping & Maintenance: Meticulous cleanings, inspections, preventative care and smart-home monitoring.
• Owner Transparency: Real-time dashboards, seasonal planning and direct communication. Guests enjoy a seamless, high-end stay. Homeowners enjoy peace of mind, knowing their property is maintained with exceptional attention to detail.
Year-Round Strategy in Luxury Rental Management
While winter and summer bring peak demand, Alpine Co-Hosts excels at attracting travelers in every season. Shoulder periods see an influx of remote professionals, adventure travelers and couples seeking a quieter luxury experience. The company adjusts positioning and pricing to ensure steady, competitive revenue throughout the year. Onboarding is streamlined: within a few weeks, homes are photographed, staged and live across strategic platforms.
Luxury homes are deeply personal spaces, and Alpine Co-Hosts honors that. Their team works to protect each residence’s character, cleanliness and long-term value. Owners return to a home that feels cared for — with thoughtful touches, essential supplies stocked and every detail refreshed.
For Vail Valley homeowners seeking elevated rental performance without sacrificing quality or personal service, Alpine Co-Hosts offers a rare blend of boutique attention and luxury expertise. It is property management rooted in local insight, executed with hospitality-level polish and designed for the extraordinary homes it represents.
Kinship
The unspoken bond between those who share the mountain air — skiers on the same powder day, hikers passing on the trail, locals and visitors trading stories. In the Vail Valley, kinship is more than family — it’s the deep connection forged through adventure and a shared love for this alpine life.
Christopher Green
Owner of The Bookworm of Edwards
“When I settled here, I made a very deliberate choice about the kind of life I wanted to lead and in what kind of environment. Mountain life poses a very different set of opportunities and challenges. We share a love of hidden powder caches, favorite trails and vistas, favorite bends in the river for fishing. We also share a deep concern for how those things are utilized and what may threaten them. We all smell the smoke and pray for rain. We greet the flowers in spring with anticipation. This, regardless of background, beliefs, the million categories we divide ourselves into, this is our kinship.”
Michael Holton
Owner of Mountain Blind Man
“Every street. Every doorstep. And always, a dog. My friend Dave visited them all — every road in the Valley. When Brady and I took over Mountain Blind Man, we inherited more than a business. We inherited a passport to kinship. To stories. To living rooms and laughter and fabric debate! I hear how people found their way here, what keeps them rooted and, of course, the names of their dogs. Kinship isn’t just family — it’s neighbors, pets, mountains and winding roads. The threads that stitch us together. The fabric that makes this Valley home.”
Kordula Schmidt
Owner of Manor Vail Spa
“When I think of kinship in the Vail Valley, I see the beautiful evolution of a self-made family born from our love for the mountains. But that love comes with its sacrifices. Living in this mountain paradise means working hard, especially during the holidays when most are with family back home. Instead of taking time off, we lean into our mountain community, forging close-knit friendships that feel more like family. It’s in those shared gondola rides, the thrill of fresh powder beneath our skis, that we find a bond that has understanding and meaning — a sense of belonging that redefines what family can be. We wouldn’t trade these moments for anything, because in the end, it’s the love and connection we build here that makes this place so extraordinary.”
Building a Brighter Start
New Avon Early Childhood Education & Development Center Coming in 2026
By Covered Bridge Staff
THE SOUND OF shovels hitting soil marked a hopeful local moment this past June, as the Vail Valley Foundation (VVF) officially broke ground on the Avon Early Childhood Education & Development Center — a milestone project that aims to ease the Valley’s ongoing childcare shortage and support local working families.
Located on East Beaver Creek Boulevard in the Village (at Avon), the 13,590-squarefoot, all-electric facility will provide highquality early learning for ages 0 to 5 when it opens in fall 2026.
“It is rewarding to officially break
ground on this transformative project that will help address the critical childcare shortage in our Valley,” says Mike Imhof, president of the Vail Valley Foundation. “After months of planning and collaboration with our partners, we are looking forward to bringing this vision to life.”
Designed by Zehren and Associates and built by RA Nelson, the building will feature photovoltaic solar panels and battery storage — sustainable touches that align with Avon’s environmental values and community-forward planning.
The project is a partnership between the Town of Avon and the Vail Valley Foundation. The Town of Avon leased the land (zoned for educational use) to VVF for 50 years at just $1 and contributed about $800,000 in financial incentives. Imhof says Avon’s leadership saw the incredible value in dedicating this property to childcare. “They were eager to engage with us to help address
this critical community issue, and we are eternally grateful for their support.”
The center also marks a new chapter for the Vail Valley Foundation. Long known for advancing arts, athletics and education, the organization added a new mission pillar, “Community,” in 2023.
Operated by the Access Early Education Foundation, enrollment at the center will include a mix of employer-sponsored and open-market spots, supported by a tuition assistance fund to help families across income levels. A staff housing assistance fund will also be created to attract and retain qualified educators.
“Immediately, this facility will serve 165 families with high-quality, affordable childcare — a critical need in what is currently a childcare desert where nearly half of all Valley parents cannot find adequate care,” says Imhof. “Many families currently rely on informal, unlicensed arrangements or have no viable childcare solution. This facility is one step toward closing that gap.”
Long-term, he adds, the center is designed as a model for future facilities throughout the Valley.
“Our goal is to replicate this successful public-private partnership approach, working with local businesses, government, private partners and individuals to develop additional highquality childcare centers,” Imhof shares. “We are starting in Avon and hope when opportunities arise to continue to expand these much-needed resources down Valley.”
With construction underway and collaboration at its core, the Avon Early Childhood Education & Development Center is more than a building — it’s a promise of a stronger start for local families. +
Rendering by Zehren and Associates
Fresh Ice for the Yeti
WITH DOBSON ICE ARENA closed for an 18-month renovation, the Vail Valley’s ice community is finding new ways to keep the game alive. The remodel began in 2025 and will modernize the arena with updated systems, expanded locker rooms and improved spectator amenities, with reopening slated for fall 2026. In the meantime, the Vail Yeti are calling Eagle Ice Arena home. A semipermanent “Rodeo Rink” at the Eagle County Fair & Rodeo Grounds will host local youth leagues, adult teams — and this winter, the Yeti.
“We weren’t sure if the Rodeo Rink was going to happen in time,” says Vail Yeti owner Kyle Forte. “So we scheduled four weekends — eight games — to make sure kids in the community wouldn’t lose ice time if things changed. These are the same kids who support us and may play for the Yeti someday.”
The condensed schedule spreads
By Covered Bridge Staff
games from December through March, with one weekend series per month to create a fun, affordable night out for fans. Puck drops at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and tickets remain $15.
While Dobson has a famously electric atmosphere, Forte is confident the new venue will deliver.
“We’re going from 1,500 seats at Dobson to 400 in Eagle, but the place will be packed. With our fans, it’s going to feel just as loud, maybe even louder,” he says. “And having games once a month will make each one an event.”
Forte also sees the move as a chance to grow the team’s fanbase. “Eagle gives us access to people down valley who might not drive to Vail for a game. Once they experience Yeti hockey, they’ll be hooked. We’re building community, keeping it fun and affordable and keeping the energy alive — even in a new space.” +
2025-26 home schedule
Dec. 19–20
Mallards
Jan. 9–10
CU Boulder
Feb. 6–7
Scottsdale Desert Dogs
Mar. 6–7
Empty Netters Podcast
Catch the Vail Yeti all winter long at the Eagle Ice Arena. For tickets and updates, visit vailyeti.com or follow @vailyetihockey on social media.
BY
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MADISON WARSHAWSKY
Beyond Recovery
GOAT Physical Therapy Expands Into Longevity + Preventive Health
By Covered Bridge Staff
GOAT PHYSICAL THERAPY in Edwards has long helped locals perform and recover at their best — from elite athletes to everyday mountain movers. Now, the team is taking that mission further with a focus on longevity and preventive health, blending science, data and movement expertise to help people stay strong and active for life.
“At GOAT, we’ve always been passionate about performance and recovery,” says Mark DelVecchio, physical therapist and owner at GOAT Physical Therapy. “But research shows that what matters most isn’t chasing trends — it’s staying consistent.”
That insight sparked a shift from reactive care to proactive wellness. Instead of waiting for pain or injury, GOAT now helps clients measure and optimize their health before problems arise.
MEASURING WHAT MATTERS
Longevity, as DelVecchio defines it, means building sustainable habits around strength, mobility and vitality. The practice recently introduced advanced testing tools to give clients a detailed look at their overall wellness:
• Body Composition (InBody 580): Breaks down fat, muscle and water distribution for a clear picture of progress.
• Metabolic Testing (VO₂ Max and Resting Metabolic Rate): Reveals how efficiently the body uses oxygen and burns calories.
• Strength and Power (VALD Force Plates): Measures force, balance and muscle symmetry — key for healthy aging and injury prevention.
These metrics create a personalized profile, allowing clients to establish baselines, set goals and track real progress over time.
FROM REACTIVE TO PROACTIVE
GOAT aims to redefine what physical therapy means. By identifying imbalances early, clients can correct movement patterns and improve function long before issues develop. And if injury does occur, the team already has precise data to guide recovery.
“It’s the same approach professional athletes have relied on for decades — now available to everyone,” DelVecchio explains. “It’s about staying strong, moving well and living fully.”
WHO BENEFITS?
Everyone. Athletes gain a performance edge, active adults maintain strength and mobility, and anyone focused on long-term wellness gets insight into key health markers.
“Our approach bridges performance and prevention,” DelVecchio says. “Whether you’re chasing a personal record or simply want to feel your best for decades to come, we’re here to help you live the best life possible — for as long as possible.” +
goatphysicaltherapy.com
Power in Motion
Vail’s Sole Power Program Expands Its Reach
By Kim Fuller
FOR MORE THAN A DECADE, Sole Power has encouraged Eagle County residents to leave their cars behind and choose more sustainable ways to get around.
Now entering its 15th year, the program is getting an upgrade. “Sole Power is a free, green commuting challenge hosted by the Town of Vail that encourages people across Eagle County to walk, bike, run or skate instead of drive in single-occupancy vehicles,” says Hunter Koch, Environmental Sustainability program administrator. “We are excited to launch the rebranded Sole Power Plus program December of 2025.”
A NEW CHAPTER FOR A COMMUNITY CLASSIC
The updated Sole Power Plus initiative broadens its focus to include more ways of traveling sustainably. “The ‘Sole Power Plus’ rebrand is really about reinvigorating this much-loved local program and bringing in a whole new group of participants,” Koch explains. “Sole Power Plus now not only includes human-powered forms of commuting, but has also expanded to include bus ridership and carpooling to further encourage and incentivize alternative and sustainable forms of transportation.”
The shift also extends the program’s
reach beyond the summer months, now operating year-round. “This is a positive way to reward those that are already taking advantage of these options while hopefully also nudging others to give green commuting options a try,” says Koch.
With fare-free options like Eco Transit and local bus systems in Vail and Avon, Eagle County is well-positioned to support residents who want to make the switch. “We are so fortunate to have incredible transit options in Eagle County with Core Transit, which is mostly farefree and the towns of Vail and Avon’s free bus systems,” Koch says. “We want to encourage people to ditch their single-occupancy cars and explore these easy and more sustainable options.”
UPGRADED APP, EASIER EXPERIENCE
Along with its new name, the program debuts a major tech improvement. “We launched the new and improved Sole Power app this summer and unveiled
the Sole Power Plus version with carpool and bus miles in November,” Koch explains. “The interface is cleaner and more intuitive than the old website, with simplified quick automatic start and stop trip entry, the ability to log previous trips manually, and better integration for team participation.”
The app includes “separate leaderboards for plus-powered and human-powered modes of transportation, new badges and more opportunities for participants to win prizes and reduce carbon emissions through fun green commuting options,” he adds.
ACCESSIBLE, ENGAGING + FREE
Participation remains open to everyone, at no cost. “Signing up for Sole Power Plus is quick, easy and everything is completely free,” Koch says. “Participants can download the
new Sole Power Plus app from the App Store or Google Play, create an account and start logging their trips.”
“To keep things fun and engaging, the program offers weekly raffles, monthly happy hours and end-of-season parties full of prizes, including gear and even an e-bike, rewarding participants for
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their commitment to green commuting throughout the year,” Koch explains.
Whether it’s walking to work, taking the bus or joining a carpool, Sole Power Plus offers simple ways to make a positive impact together. + solepower.org
Vail Art Studio is Open at Ford Park
New Hub for Artists + Community Connection
By Kaitlin Emig
SITUATED IN THE HEART of Vail’s cultural hub, the new Vail Art Studio in Ford Park offers opportunities for artistic expression, connection and community-building for both locals and visitors. The studio will serve as a gateway to broaden awareness of the expanding public art collection and programs.
Aligned in their shared commitment to fostering artistic growth and enriching community life, the Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places and the Vail Art Studio now have a physical space to deepen
community programs. By partnering with local nonprofits and educational establishments, the Art Studio will create engaging opportunities to discover through visual arts.
Artist residencies invite the community into the creative process, offering open studio hours where artists can share their work and spark meaningful connections. The program will rotate between local and national talent, highlighting both seasoned and emerging voices. According to Molly
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VAIL ART STUDIO
Photo by Barry Eckhaus
Photo by Dominique Taylor
Eppard, the Town of Vail’s Art in Public Places coordinator, the new studio will also host workshops and events centered on each residency. “We can now give artists the opportunity to create in a dedicated local studio,” she says.
Nestled along Gore Creek, the new studio is inspired by the natural environment. The building is designed by Basalt, Colorado-based Harry Teague Architects and is Vail’s first dedicated space to the visual arts. “The space will provide a respite in nature for creativity and reflection,” says Eppard.
The vaulted ceiling and 12-foot walls allow for strategically placed windows that bring in natural light while preserving uninterrupted wall space. Within the 750-square-foot building, there is an open working studio, an entrance foyer, an ADA-accessible bathroom and storage. The amenities and utilities provide the support, environment and light needed for a range of artistic disciplines.
Funding for the Art Studio was made possible through the Real Estate Transfer Tax and the Art in Public Places budget. “We are also receiving a generous financial gift from patrons Vicki and Kent Logan to help launch the programming,” says Eppard.
Launched as a showcase for local artists competing for the first residency in the new Art Studio, the inaugural Vail Art Studio Challenge, first held in August 2025, will now become an annual event. The winner receives a grand prize of $5,000 and the opportunity to be featured in the studio. The event gives Eagle County artists the chance to create live art while sharing their work with the community. +
Learn more about programming from the Art Studio by visiting artinvail.com.
Photo by Barry Eckhaus
Photo by Barry Eckhaus
Photo by Dominique Taylor
Ruggs Benedict
Flooring the Vail Valley with Craft, Care + Community
By Jennifer Weintraub
Mandy Benedict grew up with the scent of seaming tape and the sound of her father’s work boots on unfinished floors. Her father, Roger Benedict, built Ruggs Benedict from the ground up, often trading family dinners at home for meals shared on his job site. For over 50 years, the company has been a premier flooring provider in the Vail Valley.
Founded in 1972 by Roger Benedict and his two brothers, Ruggs Benedict started small, installing hardwood, carpet and tile from the confines of their garage. In 1988, they moved to a permanent location and growth took off.
Today, the business operates a
12,000-square-foot showroom in Avon, employs over 70 people and carries thousands of products. A well-stocked Gypsum warehouse with hundreds of products in backstock ensures quick installations. But size alone isn’t what keeps customers coming back: it’s the heart behind it.
THE DREAM TEAM
When Roger Benedict asked if Mandy Benedict wanted to buy the business, she didn’t hesitate; she declined. “I didn’t think I had the brilliance to do it,” she admits. At the time, she was immersed in training through Inner Matrix Systems. That training eventually gave her the skills to manage stress and fully commit to the business. Roger Benedict, meanwhile, was busy assembling the dream team to carry the business forward. That team solidified in 2014, when long-time employees Gigi Zimmerman and Alfonso Aragon joined Mandy and Roger Benedict in ownership. Aragon, who has been with the company for over 30 years, oversees estimating and installation with a relentless commitment to quality, timeliness and exceptional service. Zimmerman brings her meticulous organization skills to operations and administration, ensuring all moving parts stay in sync. Roger Benedict, now 73, stays behind the scenes, introducing new technology and streamlining systems.
Together, the four owners form the backbone of the company’s success. Since expanding ownership to this quartet, Ruggs Benedict has grown by more than 500%. The numbers tell one story. The people tell the rest.
WHERE CULTURE MEETS CRAFTSMANSHIP
At Ruggs Benedict, a strong team starts with a strong culture. “Most people are hired through word of mouth,” says Mandy Benedict. “And we hire people
who really care and are good at their craft.” That care shows up in everyday interactions; staff members celebrate each other’s wins, rally around challenges and respect each other.
For customers, that means working with flooring designers who don’t just sell products, but create exceptional experiences. They work closely with customers to find the perfect fit for flooring, balancing style, budget and material for long-lasting satisfaction.
FLOORS FOR THE MOUNTAINS
The selection in the sprawling showroom is as broad as the mountain views outside their windows, with everything from budget-friendly flooring for high-traffic rental units to high-end custom wood floors sourced from around the world.
Their partnership with Carpet One, the nation’s largest flooring provider, brings serious buying power to the table. That translates to competitive prices you might expect from a big-box store, paired with the kind of personal service and deep product knowledge you can only get from a local expert.
In the mountains, expertise matters. The dry climate, dramatic temperature shifts and high altitude can be harsh on floors. Knowing which materials can handle the elements — and how to install them for performance — makes all the difference. “People know they can count on us,” says Mandy Benedict.
Area rugs are no exception. With more than 1,200 styles in stock, there’s something for every taste and budget. And when the perfect size doesn’t exist? Their in-house rug fabricator can create a custom rug made to suit your space.
GROUNDED IN COMMUNITY
As Mandy Benedict grew into the business, she also grew into herself. “I discovered I had a huge passion for people,” she says. “I loved working on the floor and helping make people’s dreams come true.”
These days, she’s more often at her desk than on the sales floor, but she’s still cheering on as others find their stride. She’s watched employees buy their first homes, send kids to college and succeed in ways that ripple far beyond the showroom. She’s read the hundreds of five-star reviews from customers and heard countless “thank yous” from nonprofits the company supports.
“The Vail Valley is where I was born and raised,” Mandy Benedict says. “This community has given so much to me and the people that I love.” Last year alone, Ruggs Benedict donated more than $100,000 to local nonprofits.
Floors are the foundation of a home — the surfaces where you live, work and make memories. For Ruggs Benedict, it’s something more. It’s decades of craftsmanship, deep-rooted relationships built board by board and a commitment to the community under their feet. In the Vail Valley, Ruggs Benedict isn’t just covering floors — they’re helping people stand on solid ground. +
Hat Trick Trends + Tips for Styling Fashion’s Western Topper
By Jennifer Weintraub
Few pieces carry as much charisma as the cowboy hat. It’s less of an accessory and more of an attitude. Slip on one and you’ll find yourself standing a little taller and striding with confidence.
Once reserved for ranches and rodeos, the cowboy hat is a Western classic that has lassoed the attention of
style-conscious crowds from ski towns to city streets. Equal parts utility and allure, the hat blends grit with glam, heritage with hype.
The trick for this Western trend? Wearing it right.
A HAT WITH HISTORY
The cowboy hat wasn’t born in a boutique. It was built for survival.
In the late 1800s, John B. Stetson, son of a hat maker, crafted the first cowboy hat after moving West. Inspired by the broad-brimmed sombreros of Mexican vaqueros, he designed a hat that protected cowboys, shielding them from the sun and repelling the rain on the open range. Built for function and durability, it soon became a symbol of the rugged and untamed spirit of the American West.
As its popularity grew, the cowboy hat became more than just gear — it became an identity. Riders began shaping brims
and crowns to suit their style. They slipped on leather bands, silver conchos or a lucky feather on the trail.
Fast forward to today, and the cowboy hat has outridden its utilitarian beginnings. It’s a form of personal expression and a fashion statement.
CRACKING THE COWBOY HAT CODE
If you’ve ever muttered, “I just don’t look good in hats,” here’s the truth: you haven’t met the right one yet.
A cowboy hat isn’t a one-size-fitsall; it’s an art. Carrie Calvin, owner of Sunward Hats, knows this dance well. First, she analyzes your height, proportions, head size and even the shape of your head. “Fit is everything,” she says. “If it’s not comfortable, you’re not going to wear it.”
At its core, a cowboy hat comes down to two main pieces: the crown (the top of the hat) and the brim (the rim). The height of the crown and the style of the brim will dramatically change the look and how the world perceives you in that hat.
Face shape plays a significant role in the structure and style of a hat. “Typically, tall guys can pull off a Cattleman’s hat with with a high crown and wider brim, but if you’re skinny with a narrow face, the proportions can look overwhelming,” Calvin explains.
Elongated faces look best with balance — a crown that doesn’t exaggerate length and a curved brim to create harmony with the long lines. Round faces look great with angles: think a higher crown and a slanted brim to sharpen the silhouette. On the flip side, square faces benefit from softening. Rounded crowns and a gently curved brim can smooth out strong jawlines and broad foreheads. Brim size depends on your body size. “On a smaller person, an oversized brim can swallow your frame,” Calvin explains. The fix? Trim the brim slightly, and suddenly, the hat looks proportional to the person. That’s the beauty of a custom hat: every crease, curve and detail can be tailored to fit your head and personality.
The right cowboy hat doesn’t just sit on your head. It elevates your look, balances your proportions and adds a little swagger to your step.
Photo courtesy of Sunward Hats
Photo courtesy of Alpine Kind
TRENDS IN THE WILD
Cowboy hats may be steeped in tradition, but today’s styles prove that they are not stuck in the past. Modern makers are reshaping and reimagining this Western classic without losing its roots.
Shape: The classics — like the Cattleman and the pinch front — are timeless. But modern hatters are pushing boundaries and getting playful, carving crowns into shapes like roses, diamonds and arrowheads. “I love these crown shapes because they’re different, but still subtle,” says Calvin.
Brims are traditionally curved, ranging from a subtle roll to the more dramatic “taco” curve, but flat brims have emerged as the darling of modern Western fashion, Calvin explains. They are sleek, clean and polished without losing the historical origins of the hat. Another option for those who lean more urban: the pencil curl. This is a tight, rounded curl on the edge of the brim, which lifts it slightly away from the face.
Color: Black, brown and cream will
never ride out of style. But if you’re ready to stand out from the herd, bolder hues are trotting into the spotlight.
“The brighter pops of color are trendier. This season, the color is maroon,” says Sally January, owner of Alpine Kind. “It’s a little more fun and special because it’s not the traditional color for a cowboy hat, but still very wearable.”
Personalization: Customization has always been a part of cowboy hat culture, but modern tools take things up a notch.
Laser cutters etch intricate designs across crowns and brims, while piercings, earrings and stitched edges add a fashion-forward edge. The result? A hat that’s less about blending in and more about broadcasting your personality to the world.
STAMPING YOUR STORY
Cowboy hats come alive once they’re personalized. That’s when it goes from stock to signature style.
you’re not sure where to start, she recommends layering three key elements.
“We encourage people to start with a vintage or one-of-a-kind fabric as their foundation. Something with a texture or pattern that has personality,” January says. “Next, we add a complementary accent, like velvet, silk or vintage fabric. And the third element is something natural, like a feather, leather or twine. It’s the third thing that always puts the puzzle together.”
Another easy option? Wrap a hand-illustrated silk scarf around the crown. Change it with the season or use it in other ways throughout your wardrobe.
Whether you opt for bold details or subtle refinement, make it yours.
Every cowboy hat tells a tale. The shape you choose, the details you add and the way it fits all weave into your personal story. It’s attitude stitched into a silhouette.
“There are so many ways to make your hat special and unique,” January says. If
Whether you’re riding dusty trails or roaming the streets, the cowboy hat is proof that Western heritage has fashion staying power. +
PHOTOS
The Art of the Community Table
6 Ways to Craft Cozy, Timeless Gatherings
By Chloe Wasserstrom
At-home hospitality is more than filling seats at a table — it is a craft, one that echoes warmth, comfort and connection. This is the essence of the Danish adjective hygge: moments that are as soulful as they are stylish. It is not about trends or perfection, but rather cultivating presence and joy by transforming everyday gatherings into timeless memories.
Kinship lies at the heart of a community table that transcends the meal. Alexandra Gove, co-owner of Hygge Life, explains that creating this space invites guests to slow down, engage their senses and share in a story. She honed this approach while living in Europe in the 2010s with her now husband and business partner, Koen van Renswoude, who was raised in the Netherlands.
Gove has a rare gift for crafting a profound sense of contentment and coziness. With her intuitive eye for design, vast experience in the décor industry and intentional lifestyle, she has discovered tangible ways to set a community table.
Over two steaming cappuccinos at the EagleVail café and shop, we explored six ways to spark light, indulgence and elegance in a way that invites guests and loved ones alike to linger in the magic of a moment.
CANDLELIGHT
It is only fitting to begin with candlelight, for “lighting the candle marks the beginning of this moment together,” Gove says.
Placing candles around the table sends the message that presence is upon us. Their warm glow softens the room, calms the nervous system and draws people into the shared space. The act of lighting the candle as a community is a deliber-
ate pause for guests to immerse themselves in the intimacy and warmth of the gathering. In that gentle flicker, presence becomes the centerpiece.
Hygge Life has an array of scented and non-scented candles, including dinner, breakfast, taper and everyday varieties. Mountain Market and Supply in Eagle and The Belden Witch in Minturn both have beautifully scented candles made with clean ingredients from local Colorado artisans.
FLOWERS
When it comes to florals, seasonal awareness is key. Gove emphasizes that you don’t need an expensive bouquet to create beauty — sometimes a single flower in a vase is enough. For winter, she recommends whites and greens, and Vintage Magnolia in Edwards is a perfect place to find them. She also suggests clipping a sprig of pine to place in a vase or tie to napkins, adding a subtle, seasonal fragrance.
WINE
There is an element of indulgence to hygge. Think rich reds harmonizing with creamy cheeses, decadent desserts and the peaceful comfort of the snowfall outside. As you taste these simple, luxurious pleasures, you’re drawn into a slower rhythm, where every bite and sip draw you closer to the table and those around you.
The Drunken Goat in Edwards has a gorgeous selection of vino and cheeses. Take a short jaunt to Hovey & Harrison, a couple of doors down, to purchase homemade baked goods and breads.
MUSIC
The key to a perfect playlist is one that puts the table to ease, not asleep. “We don’t want the music to take
over the dinner and connection,” Gove says. “We want it to add to the ambience but not compete or take away from the conversation.”
Violinists are a great choice because the sound often follows the flow of the evening. Gove advises to think of the music ahead of time; it is a part of the menu.
SEATING
Seating goes beyond the look of a dining chair. It is important for these seats to be plenty comfortable for guests and yourself to linger in for long periods of time.
Accompanying tactile elements go a long way. Sheepskins and wool blankets do more than take the bite out of the winter air. “Visually seeing those warm textures makes you feel warm, cozy and comfortable,” Gove explains. “Even seeing a basket of blankets exploding gives that sense of warmth even if it is not wrapped around you.”
SPECIAL TOUCHES
These are surprises with personality, and there is no wrong way to show friends and family that you care. Gove offers many creative ideas to add a special touch: signature cocktails, handwritten menus, slippers at the front door, a dessert relocation or everyone lighting candles simultaneously.
No matter what came before everyone sat down at the table or what follows when the guests return home, it’s important to remember that you have the opportunity to facilitate connections that outlive an evening.
“The moment you just had, those moments of kinship, that is what makes a fulfilling, rich life,” Gove says. “Those are the moments you feel so content and at ease, where you don’t want to be anywhere else but here.” +
Strong for Life
Why Strength Training is Essential for Women’s Health
By Chloe Wasserstrom
Many women in the Vail Valley are aligning with a fitness renaissance: an explosive and compelling era where cardio is out and lifting weights is in.
This revolution is centered around safe and purposeful strength training — intentionally lifting or moving a load greater than yourself. For women especially, this practice is crucial for protecting bone density, supporting hormonal balance and maintaining strength through every stage of life.
From free weights to Pilates, from picking up your puppy to hauling ski gear, strength training is an endless creative endeavor. At the end of the day, you are causing stress on the body, elic-
iting micro-tears in the muscles, forcing your body to adapt and strengthen from the inside out.
How do we translate this awareness into action? By focusing on the pillars of strength training that lay the foundation to move with life, not just through it.
BONE DENSITY
When muscles are engaged, they do more than just sculpt your body; they place healthy stress on bones, stimulating calcium deposition and supporting long-term bone strength. This is particularly important for women because women’s natural bone density declines at a faster rate than men over time, says Chris Lindley, chief population officer at Vail Health and
co-owner of Endorphin in Eagle. However, strength training can help support strong bones at any stage of life.
Lindley is a certified trainer and strength coach. He believes longevity comes from action and highlights four essential movements: lifting something from the ground, such as a deadlift; squatting; pushing, such as a shoulder press; and pulling, such as a row. The key is incorporating weight that challenges you, whether that be kettlebells, soup cans or even logs, to fully engage your muscles.
A Pilates reformer is another powerful tool for building bone density at any age. The springs either add resistance or support, with instructors tailoring the challenge to help you grow stronger and more stable.
“Working against the springs is what causes stress on the muscles,” says Jennifer Lucas, Pilates instructor and owner of Synergy Center for Wellness. She teaches group classes in both Avon and Eagle.
To get the best bone density results in either scenario, the key is purposeful core engagement to protect your back and turn every move into a core-strengthening exercise.
HORMONE HEALTH
Regardless of childbearing, the female body is biologically programmed to support the potential for pregnancy. Throughout her life, hormones invisibly ebb and flow, shaping her days and rhythm. This process inevitably affects muscle mass, metabolism and energy — making strength training not just a fitness choice, but a biological ally that helps keep her body recover, adapt and thrive.
A woman’s intuition is a gift, and Nicco Long, family nurse practitioner at Vibrant Health of Colorado, says women should use it to their advantage from puberty to menopause.
“Women have a different biological structure,” Long says. “We go through the whole process of menstruation to carry a life. Once that goes away, and these hormones go away, it is important to honor the female’s well-being.”
The family nurse practitioner says that strength training is part of the puzzle for a woman’s physical and mental wellness. Lindley emphasizes another piece of this puzzle: testosterone levels.
Though often associated with men, testosterone is an essential hormone for women too — especially after menopause, when levels naturally decline. It is important for women to naturally boost testosterone production to benefit their body.
“The bigger the lift, the bigger the response you get, hormonally,” Lindley says. “That stressor on the skeletal system and muscles causes your body to produce more testosterone, which helps your body repair, heal and get stronger.”
VITALITY
Strength training produces the foundation that supports longevity: muscle.
Strength training is most effective when practiced consistently over a lifetime, with a focus on progressively challenging resistance. “The human body is the most resilient organism probably on the planet,” Lindley says. “You have to constantly challenge it, the weight and the modalities.”
Pilates as a method of strength training allows the practitioner to add mobility and flexibility work into their strength training.
“Pilates helps to preserve your body’s design,” Lucas illustrates. “It keeps tension off of your spine. It takes tension off of our hips. It helps you perform better because your muscles are more equally balanced and helps avoid injury.”
Here in the mountains, resilience is woven into every climb, turn and trail. For women, that resilience deepens when strength training becomes a lifelong companion. +
FEBRUARY 8, 2026
MARCH 1, 2026
MARCH 15, 2026
Legacy in Motion
Sylvan Ellefson’s Story of Sport, Community + Mentorship
By Lexi Marshall
When Sylvan Ellefson talks about his childhood in the Vail Valley, he paints a picture of a boy raised not just by his parents, but by the entire community of athletes and adventurers who surrounded him. “I feel like the endurance family is the one that raised me here,” he says. “The ones who showed that pushing yourself and making things hard can actually be fun.” It’s fitting, then, that Ellefson has built a life defined by kinship: to his roots, to his sport and now, to the next generation.
ROOTS IN THE VALLEY
Born in Vail — reportedly the largest baby on record at the time, weighing in at 10 and a half pounds — Ellefson grew up steeped in mountain culture. His parents had moved west in the 1970s, chasing the promise of snow and wide-open spaces. His father worked on Vail’s gondola crew, his mother in food and beverage for Vail Associates. Together, they raised their boys in a family where camping, skiing
and running weren’t weekend hobbies but simply a way of life.
“I think when you grow up here, you don’t realize how special it is,” Ellefson says. “You take it for granted until you leave. For me, it wasn’t until I went away to college in Maine that I started to truly appreciate the Valley.”
His appreciation deepened after tragedy. Ellefson’s father Lyndon, a world-class mountain runner, died in an accident when Sylvan was just 11 years old. But his father’s friends — many of them local athletes in their own right — stepped in, continuing to nurture the boy’s love of the outdoors and gently nudging him toward competition. “I owe a lot to them,” he reflects. “They helped give me the fire to want to become an athlete.”
RACING TOWARD A DREAM
In high school, Ellefson shifted from alpine to Nordic skiing, drawn to the endurance and rhythm of cross-country racing. He excelled quickly, and at Bates College in Maine, he became an All-American skier. After graduation, he returned home to Colorado and co-founded a professional Nordic team with his former Ski Club Vail coaches Dan Weiland and Karl Höchtl, along with close friends Josh Smith and Kevin Höchtl. Together, they set their sights on the World Cup and the Olympics.
From there, the dream grew. Ellefson earned podiums on the national circuit, competed on the World Cup tour and set his sights on the 2014 Winter Olympics. Though his bid for Sochi ended in disappointment — despite winning the 30K freestyle at U.S. Nationals just six weeks before — he looks back on those years as a gift. “I got to travel the world ski racing, doing something I always wanted to do,” he says.
PASSING THE TORCH
Retirement from professional athletics came with its own challenges. “When
Top: Sylvan Ellefson, Karl Hochtl, Duncan Robinson, Nick Sterling, Kevin Hochtl and Joshua Smith ski touring last winter.
you’re done racing, it’s hard to separate what you used to be capable of from what you can do now,” Ellefson admits. But fatherhood shifted everything. With his wife, Sarah — herself a former collegiate ski racer — he is now raising two boys, Ryder and Aksel, in the same Valley where he grew up.
“Watching them discover the joy of biking, running, skiing — it gives me more joy than winning a race ever did,” he says. Coaching, too, has become a calling. For nearly a decade, Ellefson directed Ski & Snowboard Club Vail’s Nordic Future Stars program, introducing children as young as 5 to the magic of gliding across snowy trails.
“It’s about giving back to the community that raised me,” he says. “I want these kids to feel the same spark I felt.”
Though his professional racing career is behind him, Ellefson still finds ways to test his limits. This season, he’s training for Colorado’s Alley Loop Nordic Mara-
thon and the seven-day BC Bike Race in British Columbia, Canada — a grueling stage race that covers hundreds of miles of singletrack. Just as important, though, are the early morning runs before his sons wake up, or the weekend rides he shares with his partner.
The common thread is community — kinship — woven through every stage of his journey. From his father’s circle of friends who helped him find his way, to his teammates who built a professional ski team from scratch, to the family he is now raising on the same trails, Ellefson’s story is less about solitary glory than about connection.
Asked what advice he’d give to aspiring athletes, Ellefson pauses. “I think it’s harder now than when I was a kid. There are so many distractions. But if someone hasn’t yet traded the glow of a screen for the glow of a mountaintop sunrise, they should give it a shot. That’s where it all starts.” +
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Sylvan's father Lyndon, a world-class mountain runner
1.
POC OBEX CONNECT HELMET
Blending safety with seamless communication, the Obex Connect brings high-quality audio straight into your helmet. Chat with your crew on the mountain, link up with groups up to eight or switch to open mode to connect with others on the slopes — all while streaming music or taking calls. $600 pocsports.com
2. ZEAL OPTICS MERIDIAN GOGGLE
Designed for a precision fit and peak performance, the Meridian combines sleek style with serious tech. Zeal’s Rail Lock System allows for fast and secure lens changes, while the Observation Deck design boosts your vertical field of view by 20% for better sightlines in any terrain. $199–$319 zealoptics.com
3. PATAGONIA POWSLAYER JACKET + PANTS
Built for the deepest lines, the PowSlayer Jacket features Patagonia’s three-layer Gore-Tex Pro shell with fully taped seams, optimized for backcountry use. It balances lightweight protection and durability with a super strong fabric that resists tree strikes and heavy use. The minimalist shell pants complement the matching jacket with the same fabric, along with articulated design and reinforced panels that let you move aggressively and freely in sticky snow. $799 + $649 patagonia.com
4. ESPIEVE MINERAL SUNSCREENS
From high-alpine days to riverside hangs, Espieve keeps sun care simple and clean. The Body Spray Sunscreen SPF 25 delivers sheer and lightweight protection in an earth-friendly mist, while the Sheer Mineral Lip Sunscreen adds SPF 45 defense with a smooth, nonchalky finish and a hint of kiwi-lime-ginger. Both formulas use non-nano zinc and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum coverage that feels as good as it protects. $13.95–$40 espieve.com
5. MYSTERY RANCH GLACIER 50
This 50-liter pack is built for multi-day adventures, combining rugged durability with efficient load management. It's the perfect companion for winter hut trips, featuring an easily convertible lid for going light on day adventures. $369 mysteryranch.com
6. DANNER N45 MID GTX HIKING BOOTS
Designed for adventures that don’t stop in harsh conditions, these boots balance rugged durability with lightweight comfort. Their midheight design offers extra protection from water, wind and trail snags, while staying fast and agile underfoot. $250 danner.com
7. TAILWIND RECOVERY MIX
A go-to for refueling after big efforts, Tailwind’s revamped Recovery Mix now packs more protein, more leucine and a smoother texture for faster muscle repair. Available in a new strawberry flavor, it’s a tasty, easy way to recharge after big hikes, long runs or ski days. $55.99 (20-serving pouch) tailwindnutrition.com
8. HEAD KORE 100 TI FREERIDE SKIS
Light, agile and powerful, these skis are built for skiers who want to chase powder lines and charge through mixed terrain with confidence. Strong enough to hold an edge, yet playful enough for all-day exploring. $799 head.com
9. WILD RYE BASSETT LITE BASELAYERS
Wild Rye’s LITE line is a lightweight poly/ merino blend designed for spring riding or high-output days when you want warmth without overheating. The stretch, odor resistance and slim profile of these pieces make them ideal as a first layer under shells or insulated pieces. $99–$109 wild-rye.com
10. YETI LOWLANDS BLANKET
Turn winter and spring outings into cozy base camps with this all-terrain blanket. Its insulated, supremely soft interior keeps you warm by the fire, at a snowy tailgate or on a frosty backcountry hike, while the waterproof utility layer shields against snow and moisture. Built to repel dirt, burrs and pet hair, it’s perfect for sharing with your dog during outdoor adventures. $200 yeti.com
1. CURIOUS CREATURES HUNGRY HORSE JACKET
A rugged, trail-ready jacket that blends workwear style with technical performance. With fleece backing for warmth, durable shell fabrics and an aesthetic that leans into grit and everyday utility, this is one you’ll reach for from the trailhead to town. $189 wearecuriouscreatures.com
2. SCARPA 4-QUATTRO GT
Designed for all-day comfort and all-terrain performance, this versatile ski boot has a high-volume fit and a warm, thick liner, excelling from the resort to the backcountry. The shell delivers durable flex and eco-minded construction with recycled content, while a 61-degree walk mode and 100/90 flex (men’s/women’s) balance power and freedom for every turn. $669 scarpa.com
Built for crisp mornings and frosty miles, this insulated kit keeps you warm without weighing you down. Wind- and water-resistant with breathable stretch zones, the jacket adapts as you move — venting heat when you’re pushing hard and locking it in when the chill sets in. The tights balance warmth and mobility with body-mapped insulation and breathable panels where you need them most. You’ll be ready for everything from pre-dawn runs to all-day outdoor pursuits. $260 + $180 gorewear.com
4. KOPILOT.ID
This digital medical ID was developed by Valley locals, bringing a sleek, modern edge to outdoor safety with its NFC-enabled tag built for adventurers. Small enough to stick on a helmet, pack or goggles, it securely links to your medical info through an easy-to-use app — giving rescuers instant access, even off the grid. Lightweight, reliable and thoughtfully designed, it’s peace of mind you can take anywhere, built for those who live to explore farther. $40 kopilot.id
5. RUFFWEAR VERT COVERALL DOG SNOW SUIT
Keep your pup warm, dry, and ready for winter adventures with this insulated, waterproof coverall. Designed with four-way stretch for freedom of movement, easy-zip entry and a leash portal for harness compatibility, it’s built to handle snow days and chilly trails alike. $170 ruffwear.com
6. OMBRAZ REFUGIO ARMLESS SUNGLASSES
Named after the Italian word for “shelter,” this new style from Ombraz pairs high-performance design with a laid-back feel. These armless shades feature integrated nose pads and optional side and nose shields, inspired by retro wraparounds and built for big-sun adventures. $195 ombraz.com
7. HIGH CAMP PARKSIDE FLASK — SUNDOWN EDITION
Raise your flask in the backcountry with a limited-edition color, or optional full-wrap engravings for a personal touch. Made from sommelier-grade stainless steel, this flask preserves flavor and keeps drinks chilled for up to 24 hours. With two magnetically attached tumblers, it’s built for sharing — from cozy nights in to après adventures outside. $139–$149 highcampflasks.com
8. MANITOBAH BEAR MUKLUK
A bold blend of tradition and winter tech, this fur-lined mukluk features a rubber sole with distinct left/right footbeds for increased support and traction. Rated to –25 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s built for deep-cold days while honoring Indigenous artistry with intricate embroidery. $275 manitobah.com
9. DALE OF NORWAY CORTINA 1956 SWEATER
A true heritage icon reimagined: the Cortina 1956 sweater is knitted from 100% Norwegian wool and features the original classic pattern first introduced at the 1956 Winter Olympics. With a crewneck silhouette and unisex fit, it’s a timeless mid- or outer-layer that carries serious legacy. $350 daleofnorway.com
Gear for Lil' Rippers
Tested Favorites From a Mountain-Loving, Adventure-Focused Family
Compiled by Cameron Martindell
1. FISCHER TRANSALP JUNIOR TOURING SKI
Is it a bit much to get your kid touring-specific skis? Not if you’re a hut trip lovin’ ski tour adventure family! Fischer has applied all of their ski touring specific technologies found in the adult Transalp line to kid-specific sized skis: 134, 141, and 148 cm lengths. Kids already have a strength to weight ratio disadvantage when it comes to technical gear like this so it’s important to give them every advantage possible so they love the adventure. If your family tours but you only want to invest in one set of skis at a time, get this and your kid can still use it on lift-access slopes. Fischer has the full kit: skins, bindings and poles. $449 fischersports.com
2. INSTA360 GO ULTRA
This tiny camera is designed to be used hands-free. It only weighs 53 grams and is great for attaching to kids in an unobtrusive way to capture their adventures. Between improvements in battery technology and energy efficient sensors and processors, the use time has upgraded significantly over previous models. It also does way better in low light situations in PureVideo Mode. Use the remote or your phone to control the camera from afar. Plus, this is the first model of the GO Series to have an interchangeable SD card so you can keep on recording. $450 insta360.com
While these are billed as rain gear, they are also great for ski touring. Our kiddo stayed dry and cozy during a freak hail storm at summer camp in southern Colorado thanks to this kit. The Loke Jacket uses Helly Tech Performance two-and-a-half-layer construction waterproof/breathable membrane, is fully seam sealed and has adjustable cuffs and hem. The Guard Rain Pants have a wide leg to slip over boots, are seam sealed and have a mesh lining. $100 + $70 hellyhansen.com
4. GRAVIRAX SKI RACK
Kids love to do things themselves and this hitch-mounted ski rack really helps with that. The rack is low enough to the ground and doesn’t require any straps or buckles to navigate so my kids can take or return their skis entirely on their own. Plus, it’s also super easy for parents to use. Mounted on our car we can still open the rear hatch without having to tip the rack away (which it does in case you need it to). Available in four-, six- or 10-tube versions. $999-$1,599 gravirax.com
5. MOTOROLA XT500+ OVER-EAR HEADPHONES
Wires can be such a hassle for littles to manage when all they want to do is watch their show or listen to a story. The built-in mic for hands-free calls might seem a bit over the top, but what about for FaceTime with the grandparents? It’s perfect. The over-ear style with soft cushions is great for comfort so the kiddos don’t complain about sore ears but they're still durable. Since they fold up, they’re easy to travel with. $40 motorola.com
6. KAHTOOLA
MICROSPIKES GHOST FOOTWEAR TRACTION
Weight on the feet make a big difference for kids and adults alike so these new super lightweight aggressive spikes are perfect for kiddos to keep upright when playing in the snow and potentially traversing icy bits. We also found even on packed snow trails these help the kiddos slip less to mitigate fatigue so they stay out and play as long as possible. $104 kahtoola.com
7. GREGORY WANDER 50 YOUTH BACKPACKING PACK
Backpacking and ski hut trip-loving families used to have a tough choice to make about backpacks for kids, but the Wander 50 makes it easy. This pack has enough capacity and size-ranging to serve kids for many seasons of adventure. The large main compartment can be accessed via the top load cinch closure or the asymmetrical horseshoe zipper, large external pockets are great for quick access gear needs (like rain layers) and hip-belt pockets keep snacks close by. $200 gregory.com
8. TOWN HALL MOUNTAIN JACKET + BIBS
Mountain kids play hard, especially when it involves sticks with sharp edges strapped to their feet. Steamboat Springs, Colorado-based Town Hall was born through acute experiential awareness and applies this to all of their gear, including this great snow suit kit. The 100gram 100% recycled polyester with internal boot gaiters, snow skirt and wrist cuffs makes this setup great for downhill skiing or general snow play. And with built-in grow seams they can last a few seasons! $195 + $170 townhallco.com
9. LINOGY RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES
Disposable batteries for kids’ toys (and in general) are the bane of my existence. I’ve tried lots of rechargeable solutions — I’m actually surprised devices are still being made to take AA size batteries. But the Linogy system has changed my mind. These batteries use electric
car battery technology: lithium-ion instead of the original nickel-based rechargeable chemistry. And we’ve discovered they do indeed last way longer than old school rechargeable and non-rechargeable Alkaline batteries. The Linogy batteries charge fast, hold charge in storage better and deliver consistent power (true 1.5v instead of dipping to 1.2v shortly after use begins). $150 (essentials starter kit) linogy.com
10. ROCKY TALKIE MOUNTAIN RADIO
Unlike clunky traditional radios or cell service-dependent apps, Rocky Talkie keeps it simple: clear push-to-talk communication, a shatterproof screen, secure carabiner, leash attachment and an ultra-durable design rated down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s built for real mountain conditions — from multi-pitch climbs to swiftwater rescues — and is tested daily by search and rescue teams, professional guides and adventure photographers. $110 each rockytalkie.com
11. MARMOT LIMELIGHT ULTRALIGHT 2-PERSON TENT
The Limelight UL is packable, roomy and tough enough to hang with kids on the trail. Granted, we’re talking kids about 8 years old and up who know how to take care of a tent. The freestanding design with two vestibules means everyone gets a door and space for dirty gear. The most unique feature is the two internal gear cubbies which our young campers loved. A lampshade pocket offers headlamp storage that diffuses the light for better nighttime visibility in the tent. The color-coded pole system makes setup quick and easy. $479 marmot.com
12. MERRELL BIG KID'S MOAB SPEED 2 MID WATERPROOF BOOTS
Good footwear is key for adventures and these boots have kept my kids' feet dry and warm. Plus, the traction and support have proven its worth over and over again — especially when we’re on hikes with kids in less-suitable footwear for the conditions we’re in. The side-by-side comparison is notable. The synthetic textile upper made breaking them in easy and painless. $79 merrell.com
adventure
Backcountry Skiing With Dogs
How to Set Everyone Up for Success
By Laura Lieff
Depending on when and where you go, the backcountry can provide a stunning, peaceful environment that offers solitude away from the winter resort crowds. One way people enjoy the backcountry is touring, which encompasses splitboarding, skinning and
alpine touring skiing. Each season, this type of recreation gains popularity and, for many locals, taking their dogs with them is a bonus. For others, dogs are the catalyst for humans getting into backcountry riding in the first place. “My dog Shakes, a beagle-dachshund-terrier-labrador mix, is the reason I got a touring
setup,” says longtime local Theresa Kennedy. “I hated leaving him behind all day while riding at the resort. He absolutely loves wearing his coats, following us up the skin track and racing behind us on the descent. It’s pure joy.”
Both Kennedy and longtime local and backcountry enthusiast Brian Fleming agree that the noticeable upswing in touring over the last few years is the result of accessibility and quality. “For many years, splitboards were in the development stages and now they are everywhere because enough companies make them — like Weston Backcountry which started in Minturn and is now global,” says Fleming. “Also, since you’re usually riding powder in the backcountry, the equipment lasts longer than daily driver snowboards used on the resort.”
KNOW YOUR PUP + THE TERRAIN
With equipment readily available, and people realizing that touring with their dogs is an unforgettable experience, an issue that can arise is pups getting injured during backcountry outings. Fleming says that owners need to really know their dogs and avoid taking them on adventures they aren’t ready for and/or will not enjoy. He says people should ask themselves: Is my dog strong enough? Have I taught them how to safely run next to me rather than chase me? Will my dog listen off-leash? Fleming also notes that paying attention to the snow conditions is imperative. “You don’t want to put dogs in a situation where there is hollow snow because they end up post-holing and can get seriously injured,” he explains.
Kennedy agrees that terrain choice is important — she and her husband only tour with their pup “on the gentle hills around Minturn and usually on clear, bluebird days,” she says. She also says that they trained Shakes to “maintain a safe distance from their skis and boards, as well as those of other people, and that he learned to stay between them while climbing the skin track.”
BE PREPARED
Fleming has practiced the same routine with both of his German shepherd-hus -
ky mixes over the years. This includes bringing food and water, using reflective vests and taking breaks when needed, as dogs frequently exert twice as much energy as humans on these adventures. Sedona (who passed away in 2024) led the charge for many years and Zephyr, who is now 7 years old, became a seasoned backcountry dog when she was a puppy. Fleming often splitboards in the evenings, which means being mindful of wildlife and bringing a headlamp. For those new to the backcountry, he recommends touring in the daytime first and then trying it at night. “The first time I took my wife splitboarding was with Sedona at night in a snowstorm,” he remembers with a grin. “She was ready to ride in the daytime after that!”
Both Kennedy and Fleming put their dogs in bright colors to make them easy to spot in the snow, and Kennedy’s pup uses Musher’s Secret dog paw wax on his paw pads for protection. Even though Shakes and Zephyr are well-
trained off-leash, both owners keep a leash handy for the transitions to and from the car and when gearing up and down. Fleming emphasizes the importance of prioritizing your dog’s safety when making terrain choices. That way, he says, “Everyone enjoys their time and gets out safely. They rely on you to show them the way.” Kennedy adds, “Minimize your risk. Accidents happen even to the most experienced backcountry travelers. Low angle pow is fun and safe for everyone, especially our four-legged companions.”
Although there are a variety of touring trails to choose from, Fleming points out that they’re meant for all kinds of recreation, which means owners need to pick up after their pups. He adds, “Spending time in the backcountry with your dog is a privilege for those who have built that strong bond with them. For those who are new to the adventure, I recommend going with people whose dogs know what to do so they can learn. Also, pack it in and pack it out!” +
BACKCOUNTRY
SKI DOGS CHECKLIST:
• Water and food
• Bright colored vest, harness or coat
• Musher’s Secret wax
• Leash for transitions to and from the car
• Know the terrain
• Prioritize your dog
• Be safe and have fun
Investing in More Than Medicine
How Vail Health Strengthens Community Well-Being
By Jennifer Weintraub
What does $34 million mean to a mountain town? For the Vail Valley, it means access to health care and healthier futures. In 2023 alone, Vail Health invested that staggering amount back into the community through financial donations and subsidies. As one of the top contributors in the Vail Valley, their investment reaches every corner of our community.
A Community Health Needs Assessment, conducted every three years, guides spending for every dollar to pinpoint where support matters most. The five focus areas — Access to Care, Whole-Person Health, Clinical Education and Research, Community Partners and Financial Assistance — shape how Vail Health channels its resources. The impact is both immediate and lasting.
BEYOND SICK CARE
Health in the mountains isn’t about surviving — it’s about thriving. That philosophy is at the heart of Vail Health’s mission to elevate well-being across communities. Their approach goes beyond traditional sick care, embracing whole-person health to keep people living longer, stronger and more fulfilled lives.
The Vail Valley consistently ranks as one of the healthiest counties in Colorado. Access to nature helps, but that’s only part of the picture. Community health is shaped by environment, social and economic conditions and health infrastructure. That’s where Vail Health steps in. By expanding services, funding education and prioritizing early intervention, they’re building a healthier community from the ground up.
“Vail Health’s goal of focusing on population health is an important shift from traditional sick care to total health care for our community,” says Will Cook, president and CEO of Vail Health. “We continue to work on keeping people healthy, getting ahead of chronic health conditions — including mental health — before they become more serious and costly. If we can improve people’s overall health, then we can improve their quality of life while reducing the higher cost of more expensive care.”
Even with its resources, Vail Health knows it can’t achieve this mission alone.
“Vail Health partners with people and organizations in the community who are willing to step up and help,” says Sally Welsh, Vail Health's public relations director. “Collaboration is the most important thing to move the needle.”
Through partnerships with nonprofits, schools and advocacy groups, Vail Health ensures resources reach people who need them most.
PREVENTION FIRST
Health starts with prevention — and Vail
Health is making it a priority. As a nonprofit, it reinvests money back into the community, expanding proactive services and improving access to care.
The impact shows up in everyday moments. Last year, a nurse hotline through Colorado Mountain Medical answered more than 29,000 calls, providing patients with free health guidance when they needed it most. The ThinkFirst Helmet Safety Program distributed more than 800 bike helmets and 200 ski helmets to local children, protecting the youngest riders and skiers in the Valley.
Prevention also means breaking down barriers to essential care. In partnership with the Vail Breast Cancer Group and the Vail Valley Charitable Fund, the group provides free mammogram screenings for uninsured women in the provider area. It’s a simple but powerful goal: catch issues early, and before it’s too late.
Mental health deserves the same
proactive care as physical health. Regular therapy helps people build tools to manage stress and challenges before they spiral into crisis. Vail Health Behavioral Health provides support and access to care for everyone in Eagle County, with 23 providers delivering 15,000 behavioral health sessions in 2023.
EDUCATING + EMPOWERING
Good health thrives on knowledge. Through a wide range of educational programs, Vail Health empowers people to make informed choices and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Free wellness talks bring experts into the community, covering everything from fitness as you age to holistic practices and women’s health. For older adults, programs on Aging Well offer guidance on fall prevention, while Caregiver Connections helps families navigate the challenges of in-home care. Nutrition plays a role, too. Through additional funding, Eagle Valley Community
Set Your Own Tracks In Vail
Foundation offers cooking and nutrition classes that make healthy eating more accessible and approachable.
Today’s students become tomorrow’s caregivers. With Vail Health’s support, Eagle Valley High School earned the prestigious Project Lead The Way (PLTW) award, bringing hands-on, project-based STEM curriculum into classrooms. Through the Patient Care Tech and Clinical Assistant programs at Colorado Mountain College, 25 local workforce students have become employees of Vail Health.
OWNING YOUR HEALTH
At its heart, Vail Health’s work is about empowerment.
“We want people to have the tools and resources to own their health and live a happier life,” explains Welsh. And that’s exactly what their investments achieve. Vail Health ensures wellness in the Valley isn’t a privilege — it’s a community standard. +
Pete Seibert broker associate
Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate Lionshead, Vail cell 970.390.1864 | o ce 970.479.0245 PeteSeibertJr.com
Helping you create your legacy in the valley!
Treasures That Tie Us Together
Finding Kinship in the Art of Collecting
By Laura Lieff
There are all kinds of collectors around the world. People collect baseball cards, shells, music memorabilia, coins — the list goes on. There is also a long history behind why, what and how people collect. Psychologist and University of Texas at Austin professor Andrew Dillon describes collecting as “a fundamental aspect of human existence” that offers “value to us as individuals and as communities.”
Colorado is full of collectors — people have multiple bikes, snowboards, fishing rods, pairs of skis and more — but collecting goes beyond accumulating gear. Sometimes it’s more about natural objects because, throughout all four seasons, treasures like rocks, feathers and fossils can be found across the Vail Valley. Depending on the season, successfully finding these items depends on knowing what to look for and paying attention to your surroundings.
According to Dillon, “Collections serve as a basis for informing and learning … and marking our lives in personally meaningful ways.” My 6-year-old son, Fleet, began showing an interest in collecting around
age 2. It started with picking up various items while walking our dogs and continues to develop as he gets older and is able to hike more miles. Some of our most exciting finds include a bobcat skull, antlers, fossils and snake sheds. Each time we hike, snowshoe, walk dogs or fish, we’re always on the lookout.
When we return home, we empty our pockets and put our treasures in assorted plastic containers. By the time Fleet turned 3, the containers were stacked all over the house. In an effort to have one place to store and display our finds, I bought an inexpensive piece of thrift store furniture with shelves and drawers. Creating a space for all the objects turned into our official family collection. We’ve been adding to it ever since.
PASSION FOR COLLECTING
When people visit our house, Fleet usually shows our guests his recent finds. He takes a lot of pride in telling the stories of where and how he found his treasures, why they are significant and facts about them. According to Dillon, “Having the ability to share with others who are interested … enhances a collector’s passion for the process.” This statement rings true for Fleet because, in addition to finding items with us, he also enjoys fossil hunting with local dinosaur expert Billy Doran, who has been collecting since his grandmother gave him fossilized shark teeth in the early 1970s.
“When my grandmother gave me those shark teeth I didn’t think about the worth or science behind them — I just thought they were cool,” Doran recalls. “Since then, I’ve always thought that collecting brings mystique and magic to your life because you’re part of something bigger. I still have those shark teeth.”
Through Fossil Posse, The Museum at Dinosaur Junction and the various fossils he finds, Doran educates Vail Valley residents and visitors on Colorado’s prehistoric past. “When you’re a collec-
tor, it’s your hope that others experience that feeling of wonder that you feel, too,” he explains. “To hold a tooth that’s older than human civilization is awe-inspiring.” Stories of what used to be here when dinosaurs roamed turn into a reality when relics of the past are found during today’s outdoor adventures — and that’s true for both adults and kids. “These finds provide a sense of pride and self. In a world that can be confusing, it gives you something to hold onto,” Doran adds.
SENSE OF PLACE
Collecting has become part of Fleet’s identity, which is fascinating to watch — especially when he shares what he learns with others. Hearing him tell stories of finding a snake shed on the trail or digging around the river to find fossil shells brings joy to our entire family. Dillon explains that “there is a strong relationship between human psychology and the desire to collect, one that mediates personal identity, sense of place in the world and a desire to form networks and build community.” Doran says that is true for him, and I think it applies to Fleet as well.
We’ve always been a hiking (snowshoeing in the winter) family and, like many people living in Eagle County, spending time outside is a year-round priority. Even when the weather throws a curve ball, focusing on finding objects along the way makes outdoor adventures more fun. While my investment in display furniture and plastic containers is clearly going to increase, I hope Fleet continues to grow his collection and maintain his curiosity about natural objects.
So, as you head out for your next outdoor adventure, don’t just look ahead or up at the scenery — look down for all the treasures the Vail Valley has to offer. Learning about these items — where they came from and why they matter — because my son wants to share them with me is one of the best parts of being a mom. +
PHOTO BY LAURA LIEFF
Restoration Runs Through It
Gains Made for Gore Creek, But Community Buy-In is Key
By Clare J. Hefferren
Gore Creek winds through Vail, shaping both the landscape and community identity. Listed as an impaired waterway, the creek has been the focus of the Restore the Gore initiative since 2016, led by the Town of Vail in partnership with local organizations. The goal is to restore the creek’s health so it can be removed from Colorado’s impaired waterways list by 2029.
“Gore Creek is inherently important to people in this community and it's also central to Vail’s reputation as a destination,” says Peter Wadden, watershed specialist with the Town of Vail’s Environmental Sustainability Department. Community surveys conducted every two years consistently show that residents rank housing as their top concern, with protection and restoration of Gore Creek regularly appearing among the top three priorities.
Progress has been visible. “We've planted 26,000 native trees and shrubs along the banks since 2016,” Wadden says. “It’s a visible transformation, as restoring social trails into protected riparian areas and designating other areas as access points have meaningfully changed both what it looks like to walk along the creek and the health and resiliency of the ecosystem.” The planting isn’t just about science and stormwater it’s about ensuring future generations inherit a creek as vibrant as the one we treasure today.
MORE WORK AROUND THE BEND
Challenges remain — particularly the impact of landscaping chemicals. Fertilizers and herbicides have profound unintended creek consequences on aquatic macroinvertebrates and the overall health of bug populations. With the town already
restoring nearly all of the 40% of the streamfront it owns, the remaining 60%, managed by private property owners, now holds the key to long-term recovery. The question is how to encourage buy-in from homeowners when punitive measures are often ineffective. Rather than wait for legislation to catch up to sustainable practices, a more impactful path may lie in encouraging voluntary behavioral change.
Leaders, businesses and residents can shift the culture by supporting organic landscaping practices. Aligning how we care for our yards with the health of the creek is about more than water quality — it’s about community values. When our choices support the creek, the result is a community that thrives in balance with its surroundings.
While impressive progress has been made, the work continues. The town remains committed to long-term success, with upcoming projects including stream restoration at the east end of Ford Park. That effort is partially funded by a Natural Resource Defense Fund settlement stemming from a 2021 snowmaking spill — an unfortunate incident now transformed into an opportunity to restore and renew.
Living streamside on Gore Creek in Vail’s Intermountain, I see the daily rhythm of this waterway — fly fishermen wading and kayaks cheerfully charging by as the water level shifts with each season. Yet you don’t have to live on its banks to notice it weaving through neighborhood mornings, winter strolls and walks across the Covered Bridge. The creek gives to each of us, and in return, it calls us to care together. This work is about coherence: how the way we live, build and love the land reflects back in the vitality of the creek. It is our through-line. +
Kari Mohr, communications manager at Town of Vail, and her son enjoy a spring moment at the creekside.
Restaurant spotlight
Capitol Public House Eagle
By Chloe Wasserstrom
At the corner of tradition and community, a brickclad building houses a local watering hole where friendliness and family go hand in hand. Upon entering this Eagle Ranch eatery, you’ll be drawn to the long bar, its rows of gleaming bourbon and whisky bottles casting a subtle, warm glow over the dining room — illuminating conversations, laughter and moments of kinship. Capitol Public House is an establishment meant to be shared with others. It is a space designed for gatherings of all kinds around delicious, warm, comforting and fueling foods.
This is owner Casey Glowacki’s most recent restaurant. Following the openings of the sister establishments — Drunken Goat, Cut Meat and Seafood Market, and Wild Sage — Glowacki brought something entirely new to the Valley with Capitol Public House in February 2024. From the first served slice of pizza to the most recent carefully crafted cup of French onion soup, every dish is a savored story of community and the simple joy of sharing a meal with others.
The menu has something for everyone’s palate, diet and hunger levels. “We are that Cheers — that local watering hole that has great food,” Glowacki says.
It is evident Chef Kevin Nelson cares about every dish’s ingredients and preparations. I realized this from the very first bite of my opening dish — the spinach and artichoke dip. I am very particular when it comes to dips; I want to fuel my body with nourishing, digestible foods. To my surprise and delight, Capitol Public House’s spinach and artichoke dip was just this. Served in a sizzling skillet, the vegetable-heavy dip strayed away from creamy. Rather, the vegetables were the main event, and the cheese added to the soft texture, melting and oozing over the skillet. The dip was served with both pita and corn chips, adding a mix of textures and crunch.
After my first sip of the Austin Hope
chardonnay, I dove into the coconut shrimp. The dipping sauce trio — sweet chili, pineapple cream and siracha aioli was another sharable success. There is a strong sense of pleasure and community when you can chat about your bites with fellow foodies. My favorite was the sweet chili, a light and subtle sweet addition.
Next was the Health Nut Country Salad. The heirloom carrots, pistachios, alfalfa and pickled onions lay upon a bed of organic greens. The dressing, a sunflower seed vinaigrette, tasted like a homage to the restaurant’s neighbor and sister, Wild Sage. Because of this, I trusted the freshness of entire restaurant.
Nate, our server, had recommended the chardonnay to accompany the evening’s main event: a build-your-own 16-inch pizza. There is something so inherently community-oriented about sharing a pie, and our crisp alpine air pairs perfectly with Capitol Public House’s stone fired pizzas, which you can choose to elevate with more than 20 toppings.
I knew I wanted to try the fresh mushrooms, and because Nate’s vino recommendation was outstanding, I trusted him to curate the rest. Fifteen minutes later, on homemade dough, my soon-tobe favorite pizza arrived: half mushroom with roasted peppers and half mushroom with roasted garlic. As someone who always craves extra cheese, I was thrilled to find that Capitol Public House loads theirs to perfection. Even with its generous cheesiness, the dough still held its own — delicious, balanced and baked to the ideal ratio for a true cheese-lover.
A dessert does not seem so daunting after this meal when it is their Skillet Cookie — an extra gooey take on the American classic. This dish takes teamwork, kinship if you will, for the vanilla ice cream and whipped cream melt fast. After a homey and flavorful meal inside Glowacki’s restaurant, it became clear that Capitol Public House is more than a space to dine — it’s a gathering ground where neighbors, families and
friends can savor food and connection in celebratory times and in times of needed community comfort.
Glowacki also makes it easy to take Capitol Public House home. Located inside the same brick walls is one of the Cut locations. Among an array of fish and meat options, you can also find a “take-and-bake” pizza, prepared in the Capitol Public House kitchen. There is a palpable synergy here, where you can effortlessly purchase a bottle of wine and a pizza from Cut to take and enjoy in the comfort of your home.
It’s this seamless blend of dine-in hospitality and take-home warmth that makes Capitol Public House a cornerstone of the Vail Valley — a place where good food and good company are always on the menu. +
Restaurant spotlight
Sweet Basil
Vail
By kim fuller
193 Gore Creek Dr. Vail sweetbasilvail.com
nourish
It’s rare for something to keep getting better after nearly half a century, but Sweet Basil, nestled in the heart of Vail Village, continues to evolve with effortless grace. Since opening in 1977, this beloved restaurant has been the benchmark for fine dining in the mountains, consistently reinventing itself while preserving the soul of what makes it special. The space has been reimagined over the years, the menu refreshed countless times, and yet its essence remains
unchanged: sophistication without pretension, innovation without ego.
Inside, the atmosphere hums with the kind of energy that only comes from excellence honed over time. The bar glows under soft amber light, the staff moves in rhythmic choreography and every seat in the house has its own special angle. The cocktails are creative and balanced, equal parts art and science, and the service strikes that elusive sweet spot between polished and personal. But the real magic, the reason Sweet Basil
remains firmly on its pedestal after 49 years, is the food.
Elegance at Elevation is a shoulder season (spring and fall) prix-fixe pairing menu that makes for a truly special experience guided by a chef and a sommelier. Our Saturday night meal captured everything that defines the Sweet Basil experience: bold creativity, deep craftsmanship and a sense of occasion that lingers long after the last bite.
“Any proper tasting menu is, for myself, the pinnacle of what a sommelier and a kitchen team can provide,” shares Jeremy Gramling, wine director.
The evening began with lobster donuts topped with caviar, an opulent pairing that shimmered under the sparkle of Guy Larmandier Cramant Grand Cru Champagne. Then, a delicate crudo, with each briny and bright bite matched by Valdespino’s manzanilla sherry from Sanlúcar de Barrameda, Spain.
From there, the courses and pairings continued to play the evening like a symphony — Argentinian red shrimp with corn, chili oil, brioche croutons and micro-cilantro, lifted by the minerality of a Portuguese albariño, an array of pintxos paired with Basque cider for a bright interlude and a fun play on foie gras deepened by rich Pedro Ximénez sherry.
Then came the duck, a five-spice marvel complemented by 2023 Trimbach riesling from Alsace — a pairing that danced between sweetness and heat. The halibut with an ink garlic miso followed, its delicate flake elevated by a Tuscan Chianti, earthy and robust. By this point, conversation softened, laughter lingered and time seemed to slow in that way it only does when everything — food, drink, company — is exactly right.
“The tasting menus have helped us with larger menu development as well,” says Will Edwards, chef de cuisine. “We focus on making some perfect bites for the tastings and then look at how we can expand them into full dish concepts for the menu.”
Of course, no visit to Sweet Basil would be complete without a taste of the restaurant’s playful cocktail craftsmanship. The Lawman, made with scotch, Velvet Falernum, banana liqueur, tobacco bitters and walnut bitters is a richly layered, spirit-forward drink — the kind that feels both rugged and refined, perfectly fitting as a nightcap to a mountain evening.
The true finale, a decadent sticky toffee pudding, was a reminder as to why this dish has earned legendary status in the Valley. It’s sweet, warm and perfectly nostalgic.
It’s no wonder Sweet Basil remains a cornerstone of Vail’s culinary landscape. After nearly 50 years, Sweet Basil hasn’t lost its edge, it’s only sharpened it — a true example of elegance at elevation. +
Eat With Your Hands
By Russel Reuben + William Montecristo
With each issue of Covered Bridge, your brave culinary explorers, Russel Reuben and William Montecristo, scour the Valley for handheld wonders and edible treasures. When mountain mornings turn crisp, leaves paint the ridgelines in technicolor and the peaks catch their first dustings of white, our minds wander to winter.
Writing this winter and spring’s feature during leaf peepin’ season has us peaking and daydreaming of what the changing seasons are bringing. If you’re going to daydream, you might as well go big: BFF bro trips to Japan, bottomless powder runs and bottomless après beers.
In Japanese, ikigai refers to your purpose in life, the thing that gives you a reason to get up every morning with joy and enthusiasm. This concept elevated and inspired our mission for this ninth issue of Covered Bridge to search our souls for meaning. We came back wiser and resolute in our vision. As your trusted guides to delicious eats and secret stashes, we found validation in our humble calling while sampling the Valley’s top ramen and fueling our endless winter fantasies.
EAT, PRAY, SHRED: Discussing New Rides + Travel Plans
While Slurping
Noodles
Disclaimer: These rankings are anecdotal samplings of some of the food we ate with our hands and are 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: eatwithyourhandsvail@gmail.com.
Gold
The Rose, Edwards / Lib Tech SweetFish Ramen crafted by a shredder, and it shows.
Russel: Dropping in on The Rose Ramen is like dropping in on my favorite line — it accelerates fast. The miso-rich broth wraps you like a down puffy straight out of the dryer. Each slurp carries weight, depth and a ginger shimmer that hits like first tracks off Genghis. The crispy pork, the chewy noodles, the steam fogging your goggles … it’s a full send of flavor. Paired with Lib Tech’s Sweetfish, a swallow-tailed surf stick made for floating in the white room, this is more than dinner. This is a pilgrimage. If the bro adventure of a lifetime in Japan ever calls, this combo is my boarding pass.
William: The Rose doesn’t just serve ramen. It serves reverence. Perfectly chewy noodles, a broth you want to write haiku about and toppings so thoughtful they could be life coaches. And the Sweetfish? She’s the dreamboat. Wide nose, tapered tail, built to glide across pow like silk sheets in a Hokkaido hotel suite. Together, they’re proof that joy comes from matching depth and float. (Thanks, life coaches). If slurping hot soup and smashing cold beers in soft boots isn’t peak mountain culture, what is?
Silver
Makoto, Vail / Burton Family Tree Smooth Operator Balance is the secret to happiness.
Russel: Makoto’s Chicken Ramen is the “shred-ready” buddy that actually shows up. The broth is clean, bright and deeply comforting, with just enough salt to keep you thirsty for another Sapporo. Not too flashy but spicy in just the right way, like Burton’s Smooth Operator. Perfect flex, a tapered directional camber, a board that carves clean lines and floats with zero fuss. Japanese wisdom says forget about how many likes this might get on Instagram.
William: More than just a lunch, Makoto serves up chicken soup for the sentimental shredder’s soul. It’s restorative, like pressing your reset button for a fresh start. A personal wellness retreat without any trust falls or gurus. And the Smooth Operator? That’s your emotional breakthrough board. It won’t fight you, won’t punish you. It’s just here to carry you forward in this journey. Simple. Smooth. Fast. Focused. Banzai!
Bronze
Glo at Avanti, Vail / Spring Break Powder Twin Spice makes the adventure.
Russel: Glo’s Spicy Miso Ramen is the wildcard. The broth lights a fire on your lips like chili-fueled fireworks. Noodles whip like pow slashes in the aspens, and by the time you hit the bottom, you’re warm enough to unzip the bibs and defog the googles. It’s a bowl with personality, a little chaos, a lot of joy. Playful, chaotic and a little unhinged. Just like William’s ex and like the Spring Break Powder Twin. Built to spin, slash and brave riding switch in the trees. A true twin adventure in spirit and spice because sometimes the best runs and the best ramen don’t follow a trail map.
William: The Japanese say gaman is the virtue of patiently enduring what is seemingly unbearable. Sounds like what I experienced, stretching my stinging lips into a smile at Glo. The heat keeps you guessing, sweating and stoked just like the Powder Twin. It wants you to play, spin and charge in powder like it’s a pillow fort. Not the fastest, not the stiffest, but who cares? Sometimes the most funnest ride is the messiest one. So get your bibs on. It’s when your heart is pounding, your tongue is tingling and your nose is running that you know you’re really alive.
The Crêpe Girl
RFrench Crêpes
4 cups all-purpose flour
5 large eggs
4 ¼ cups whole milk
¼ cup sugar
1 ½ tsp salt
2 Tbsp of butter
1 Tbsp fresh orange juice or vanilla extract
1. In a big mixing bowl, add the flour, sugar and salt. Give it a quick mix.
2. Create a little hole in the center of the flour and drop in the eggs with a splash of milk.
3. Start whisking from the inside out, slowly pulling in the flour while adding milk bit by bit — this keeps away the dreaded lumps (grumeaux).
4. Once about half the milk is in, whisk in the melted butter. Then add the rest of the milk and keep whisking until smooth.
5. Pass the batter through a fine strainer into another bowl — silky smooth guaranteed.
6. Stir in the orange juice for that subtle citrus sparkle.
7. Cover the batter and let it rest in the fridge for about one hour.
8. Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Dip a folded piece of paper towel in a bit of butter and wipe the pan lightly to coat.
aised in Paris and now rooted in the Colorado mountains, Shana Azerad blends her French heritage with her alpine lifestyle. As the founder of The Crêpe Girl, she shares the flavors of her childhood through delicate crêpes infused with a touch of mountain charm. Between farmers markets, her cozy crêpe window in Vail Village and private events, Azerad loves to bring people together around food that feels both elegant and comforting. When she isn’t behind the griddle, you’ll find her skiing, traveling or curating experiences that celebrate French art de vivre at high altitude. +
9. Pour in a ladle of batter, swirling quickly to coat the bottom in a thin layer. Cook until the edges begin to lift and the bottom turns golden, about one to two minutes.
10. Slide a spatula (or use your fingers) to flip the crêpe once the top looks set and the underside has light brown spots. Cook the second side for about 30 to 60 seconds.
11. Stack the hot crêpes together — the warmth of each new crêpe will keep them moist!
Cocktail
Bully Ranch Mudslide
This après-ski classic from the Sonnenalp Hotel’s Bully Ranch is the ultimate grown-up indulgence — creamy, chocolatey and just boozy enough to take the chill off after a day on the mountain.
Mudslide
1 part vodka
1 part Bailey’s Irish Cream
1 part Kahlúa
1. Blend with ice.
2. Pour into a glass drizzled with chocolate syrup.
Zack Lewison
Zack Lewison serves as beverage manager and sommelier at the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail. A board member of Taste of Vail and judge for the Colorado Governor’s Cup Wine Competition, he brings both expertise and warmth to every pour. Whether curating wine lists or mixing après favorites like the Mudslide, Lewison is known for creating memorable, approachable guest experiences. When he’s off duty, you’ll likely find him skiing or soaking up the Vail Valley lifestyle.
More Than Music
The Vilar Performing Arts Center Introduces Love for the Locals
Since the fall of 2010, the Vilar Performing Arts Center has curated programming with the local community in mind through its Underground Sound series. Over time, this initiative has evolved into a year-round program called Love for the Locals. Launched in September 2025, Love for the Locals celebrates the power of the arts, community and shared experiences for everyone who calls the Vail Valley home.
Executive Director Cameron Morgan saw how the locals-first approach resonated in the fall, and recognized the demand for those opportunities to exist year-round. Under his leadership, the Vilar has extended community-focused programming across the calendar year to create cultural connection points for the Valley all year long.
“Our community exists year-round, and our commitment to them should too,” Morgan says. “Love for the Locals puts that promise in
plain view as a direct message to our community: these shows are for you.”
Rooted in the legacy of the Underground Sound series, Love for the Locals expands its programming scope to include comedy alongside diverse musical genres. Over the course of a year, the initiative will feature more than 10 shows that reflect the local community’s interests, and new Love for the Locals shows will be announced on an ongoing basis. Morgan emphasizes that the programming will continue to evolve based on audience feedback, including comments, suggestions and overall response.
Once you find the Vilar’s schedule on their website (vilarpac.org/events), you’ll see the Love for the Locals branding on select performances. This signals the shows that are designed to foster a sense of belonging and create a social, community-centered experience. Expect performances from both
established and emerging artists. Whether or not you recognize a name, the Vilar is your connection to consistently high-quality performances that bring joy and creativity to the mountains.
In conjunction with Love for the Locals, the Vilar has expanded its discounted ticket offerings to give locals and visitors the opportunity to guarantee their space in the audience and save money. The Pick 3 and Pick 5 bundles can be applied to many shows at the Vilar, including all Love for the Locals shows. When you purchase three shows at once, you will receive 10% off your order, and when you purchase five shows, you will receive 15% off your order. There’s no limit to how many of these bundles you can buy. These packages are another way in which the Vilar is extending its appreciation to the community throughout the year. You will also receive a free beverage at each Love for the Locals show you attend.
Morgan underscores that Love for the Locals is designed to be approachable and inclusive. Most shows are cross-generational and entertaining for the whole family.
“The arts bring people together, transcend differences and connect us to our shared humanity. Everyone should have the opportunity to feel that impact,” Morgan says. “Increasing access to the arts isn’t a gesture, it’s how we build up our community.”
Love for the Locals is a reflection of the Vilar’s ongoing role as a gathering place, where the arts strengthen an unspoken bond between people who feel at home in the Valley. This is an open invitation to residents, and anyone energized to experience the inspiring spirit of local living.
Vilar Performing Arts Center 68 Avondale Ln.
Beaver Creek, CO 970.845.8497
Vilarpac.org/love-for-the-locals
by Chloe Wasserstrom
All Through the Crown
By Rachel Glowacki, With Illustrations by Ryan Nelson
Review by Sandy Ferguson Fuller
Anyone familiar with reading to small children knows that stories and quiet snuggling make a cozy fit, but even more so, stories that invite movement and expression. Visit a toddler story hour and undoubtedly, you’ll see and hear some “wiggle worms” in the audience join in with their actions and voices, adding a new dimension to any picture book. In 2024, locals Rachel Glowacki and Carly Finke co-founded Move With Me Books, inspired by this idea. Their mission is “to engage all readers, to embody stories through movement, mindfulness and breath, because every child deserves a multi-sensory experience that enhances literacy and memory.”
To begin, they selected and featured eight picture books in their free online virtual library and through Glowacki’s interactive presentations. Through read-alouds, yoga-inspired movement and reflection practices, they “develop emotional literacy, body awareness and a strong sense of belonging — one breath and book at a time.”
Now, Glowacki herself has authored the next feature book, All Through The Crown, published September 2025, with a special local launch event at The Bookworm of Edwards. Accompanied by
endearing, inclusive and colorful illustrations by Ryan Nelson, Glowacki adopts the familiar tune, “Wheels on the Bus,” to create her own version which celebrates body movements, feelings, energy and thoughts from head to toe. One can’t help but to hum, to tap or even to sing along with the text, turning from page to page. Glowacki invites kids and adults to experience this playful and powerful connection between our feelings and our reactions. Following the verses, she introduces seven main chakras in her “Chakra Rainbow” and leads an audience of all ages with her “Rainbow Meditation.” Chakras help us to recognize how the energy in our bodies moves or gets stuck. Mantras and meditation both boost positive thinking and mindful journeying.
It is Glowacki’s vision and hope that the ideas and habits introduced in her picture book, as well as through Move With Me Books, prove to be contagious and grow as popular practices among parents, teachers, librarians and all adults who closely influence kids. Certainly, the world is a better place with messages such as …
“The voice in our throat says peace and love Peace and love, peace and love.
The voice in our throat says peace and love, All through the crown.”+
With Emily Arden Wells
Author of Eat Post Like
Interview by Kim Fuller
With her debut novel Eat Post Like , local writer Emily Arden Wells serves up a story that is as much about food and travel as it is about love, loss and finding connection in unexpected places. Following protagonist Cassie through a culinary journey across Europe, the novel explores how grief can open the door to rediscovery — and how shared meals, memories and new experiences can forge bonds that feel like kinship. As Wells brings her passion for storytelling and flavor to the page, she invites readers to savor not just the meals, but the relationships that nourish us most.
This is your debut novel. What personal experiences or passions — whether culinary, travel or storytelling — shaped the heart of this book?
Eat Post Like is very much based on my own experiences, although the circumstances differ. I, too, was on a singular, specific career path before taking a sharp turn into something completely unexpected. In 2009, I launched the award-winning website Gastronomista , which led to writing for national publications. Over time, my writing “side gig” opened incredible doors: I was invited to lavish dinners, cocktail events and eventually to travel as press. These invitations took me around the world — to wineries in New Zealand, cachaça farms in Brazil, the Highlands of Scotland and the agave fields of Mexico. These trips became an invaluable education, offering opportunities to learn about the culinary arts, wine, spirits and the culture of each place.
I can certainly relate to Cassie’s career struggles in the book. While I trained as an architect (Cassie, the main character, is a lawyer), I deeply understand the pressures that come with high-profile jobs, as well as what it feels like to work
Photo by Ali Vagnini
in a field you love but for people who don’t value your time or efforts. Fortunately, today I work with a team that is incredibly supportive, and they view my multi-hyphenate tendencies as an asset rather than a detriment.
How did you approach writing the food and travel scenes so vividly — did you draw from real meals and journeys?
Some of the food and travel scenes are based on places I’ve visited and meals I’ve eaten. I’ve even stayed in a few of the incredible hotels featured in the book. That said, I needed to refresh my memory while writing, so I revisited photos from past trips and conducted extensive research on each location. Of course, detailed memories fade with time, so it’s fair to say I did just as much research for the restaurants I had visited as for those I hadn’t.
In the process, I turned to Google Maps, Instagram accounts, magazine articles, online review sites like TripAdvisor where travelers upload their own photos and independent blog posts. I found blog posts from other food and travel writers to be the most helpful — they often included menus, detailed descriptions and photos, which meant that I was able to extrapolate Cassie's experience in a vivid way.
The book highlights how shared meals can create kinship, even among strangers. How has food served as a point of connection in your own life?
I think there's something kind of magical that happens when you break bread with others; it wires the brain to create a deeper feeling of connection and closeness. I've always loved candlelit meals with friends that drift deep into the night, laced with conversation and laughter, nights that have bonded me closer to my friends and loved ones in a profoundly intrinsic way.
There's a reason for this. The part of our brain that processes aroma and flavor is closely connected to the frontal cortex, where our memories and emotions live. That's why the smell of cookies can take you back to your mother's kitchen, why a certain roux recalls the night you fell in love with your husband or why a particular cocktail can transport you back to a trip from 20 years ago. Food is magic. It connects us not only to the people in the present moment, but also to our past — and even our future.
Now that Eat Post Like is out in the world, what do you hope readers carry with them after turning the last page?
I hope Eat Post Like inspires people to get out and experience the world. Travel gives people a wider perspective and a better understanding of history, art, cuisine, technology, the list goes on and on. My own experiences have been an integral part of crafting who I am as a person and as an artist. That's why, whenever I give advice, I always recommend travel. Get on that plane! +
The Kinship of Music + Mind Where
Sound Meets Science
By Irene Middleman Thomas
“Music is the medicine of the mind,” American soldier and politician John A. Logan once said. None other than Friedrich Nietzsche wrote, “Without music, life would be a mistake.”
Music-making is a complex phenomenon involving multiple brain areas and neural connections. Engaging with music, whether playing or listening, is among our most cognitively demanding tasks. Decades of research have shown that music shapes the brain’s structure and function, particularly in areas responsible for attention, memory, language and emotional processing.
MAPPING MUSIC IN THE BRAIN
In its 38th season, the Bravo! Vail Music Festival held a conference examining the impact of music on the brain and human behavior. The event, held July 9, 2025 at the Vail Interfaith Chapel, featured Bravo! Vail Artistic Director Anne-Marie McDermott and renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Kalmon Post. About 150 people attended the seminar, which offered a rare look at the intersection of music and neuroscience.
These connections between music and the brain have been studied for centuries. However, as Post explained, imaging developments now provide much more
Photo by Tom Cohen
information. Now retired, Post was the Chief of Neurosurgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. He pointed out that with modern imaging, “we can see things in the head now that were not visible before. We can actually do imaging while a person is playing an instrument, seeing the endorphins, dopamine and other brain chemicals being affected.”
Music is proven to cause both structural and functional changes in the brain, both with immediate exposure and over extended time periods. Music is processed by so many areas of the brain (the cortex, limbic system, neuroendocrine and autonomic nervous systems) that it affects our bodies as well.
Post presented slides which helped to explain what occurs in the brain relating to music, and cited relevant studies. “All of the active sites of increasing blood flow while playing music are visible with imaging,” he noted.
HEALING THROUGH HARMONY
“Specific regions of the brain involve the temporal lobe,” Post explained, “which processes auditory information that helps us appreciate tone and pitch. The right lobe is more creative and emotional, while the left lobe is more logical, managing rhythm and pitch with the language area. The cerebellum has to do with rhythm and timing, coordinating movements, especially when listening or playing music.” Music listening improves cognitive functions such as memory, attention span and behavioral augmentation.
McDermott, a professional pianist who performs worldwide, has been artistic director of Bravo! Vail for 16 years. She has worked with Post for much of that time. “I am utterly fascinated by how the brain is related to classical music,” she said. “Part of my job is to get people excited to understand more about music. Music has the incredible ability to speak to us collectively and individually. In my position as artistic director, I have found that people want to learn. People are curious.”
Thus, the two decided to partner and designed the conference. For several years, Post has been deeply involved
with Harmony Program, a nonprofit in New York designed to bring music education to underserved communities in the city, and he has become increasingly interested in the studies of music and the brain.
Post explained that long-term studies on music’s effect on the brain and language reveal notable benefits.
After just one year of musical training, children ages 8 to 10 demonstrated improvements in speech timing, verbal intelligence, reading and overall cognitive skills — gains that were not seen in control groups. “On the whole, musicians outperform non-musicians in a wide variety of tasks — verbal memory, walking memory and sequencing,” he shared.
“Music helps regulate emotions, reducing stress and anxiety. Listening to music can improve memory, attention and overall cognitive function. It can even help with pain relief. There are some studies showing that less pain medications are needed in ICU patients if there’s music playing,” Post said. “In physical health, music often lowers blood pressure, reduces cortisol levels and increases social bonding.” He remarked that numerous studies have shown that Parkinson’s patients’ mobility improves with the rhythmic training from music.
Music-based therapies have shown high success rates in treating depression and anxiety, as well as in helping patients recover neurological function after a stroke.
“When people have a stroke, they can increase cognitive and emotional mea-
We can actually do imaging while a person is playing an instrument, seeing the endorphins, dopamine and other brain chemicals being affected.
Dr. Kalmon Post
surements afterwards. Someone with Alzheimer’s may not recognize their family members but can sing every word in a song because recent memory and old memory are stored differently,” he said.
“Certain things trigger old memories, and music happens to be one of them.”
In 2026, Bravo! Vail plans to hold another session, this one directed to specific types of music and how they light up different areas of the brain.
“There is so much more to see now,” Post said. “In my 50 years in neurosurgery, I felt like it was magic when the scans became available.”
In the end, music is more than sound — it’s a kinship that unites brain, body and spirit. +
Photo courtesy of Dr. Kalmon Post
Photo by Sophie Zhai
Whether you skied double blacks or took the direct route to cocktail hour, this soft cashmere sweater pairs perfectly with ski or snow boots.
Ski Cashmere Sweater, $425 Alpine Kind
Après All Day
Elevated Ski-Town Essentials That Blend Warmth, Function + Fashion
By Jennifer Weintraub
Ski style has spun off the slopes and onto the streets, serving up alpine wear that is cozy and chic. Après-ski fashion is where functionality meets flair. Think performance-driven fabrics meet retro-inspired design in rich neutral tones and with pops of vibrant color. When you’re looking to make a statement, these pieces are stylish and sleek on and off the snow.
Outfitted with a chunky sole and made from waterproof materials, these boots are warm and wearable for all activities. Whether you’re just slipping off your ski boots, or pairing with jeans, you’ll be reaching for these stylish boots all winter.
Sorel Ona Ave Peak Waterproof Boot, $140 / Alpine Kind
Why blend in with the flock when you can stand out? Equal parts lodge luxe and city chic, this cozy wool sweater steals the scene with a bold Scandinavian knit pattern, a half-zip neck and dramatic sleeves.
Kari Traa Saga Knit Sweater, $140 / Pepi Sports
This wool balaclava is winter’s answer to style and survival.
Kari Traa Saga Balaclava, $50 / Pepi Sports
Don’t settle for a standard black coat. Elevate your oversized down jacket with a statement white fur collar and tie closures.
Goose Down Fur Jacket, $1,150 / Kemo Sabe
Leopard print is prowling the fashion scene this year and a slouchy animal-print fleece beanie is just the right kind of après roar.
Ski Town All Stars Hunky Dory Fleece Beanie, $36
Ski Town All Stars
Plaid is as much of a staple in a ski town as salt and pepper are in your kitchen. Step it up a notch in this heavyweight, relaxed fit overshirt. With the modern, straight fit and drop-in pockets of a chore coat, your “nicest” flannel is still rugged, but a bit more refined.
Marmot Pinecrest Heavy Flannel Overshirt, $130 / Alpine Kind
Stay chic and sleek with a quilted bucket hat. Made with a windproof and water-repellent material, this trendy topper completes any winter ensemble.
Bogner Bucket Hat, $250 Pepi Sports
Playful prints with puffer warmth and retro vibes. This down-filled vest has two oversized front pockets for holding your bevvies or other essentials.
Hoohah Daisy Vest, $128 Alpine Kind
Grounded in Design Expert Tips for Choosing the Perfect Flooring from Ruggs Benedict
When it comes to creating a home that feels both beautiful and livable, flooring lays the foundation, literally. It’s the first surface you touch each morning, the canvas that anchors your furniture and defines the tone of every room. At Ruggs Benedict in Avon, flooring isn’t just a product — it’s a design decision that blends function, comfort and craftsmanship.
For more than 50 years, the Benedict family and their team have helped Vail Valley homeowners navigate the countless choices underfoot, from sleek hardwoods to cozy carpets and durable waterproof planks. Their philosophy is rooted in pairing expert installation with personalized guidance, ensuring every space feels at home in the mountains.
The Right Floors, in the Right Places
“The first consideration is how the space will be used,” says founder Roger Benedict. “High-traffic or entry areas need durable, cleanable floors to stand up to the use and always look good.”
It’s advice born from decades of experience in Colorado’s unique mountain climate,
where snow, mud and shifting temperatures can test even the toughest materials. Benedict explains that newer categories of waterproof floors, such as luxury vinyl or hybrid composites, have become a practical choice for active families and second-home owners who want performance without sacrificing style.
But not every surface should be built like a boot tread. “You don’t want that in the bedrooms and living areas,” he adds. “Soft, luxurious carpet and beautiful hardwood floors have their place too. It’s a matter of using the right products in the right places.”
In Ruggs Benedict’s 12,000-square-foot showroom, that balance comes to life. Customers can explore an array of flooring options, from engineered oak planks that mimic the natural grain of mountain timber to plush wool carpets that bring warmth and texture to gathering spaces.
Natural Beauty, Timeless Style
Trends may come and go, but Benedict says natural materials remain the benchmark for timeless mountain design. “Natural products are in. They fit the mountain home look and feel,” he explains. “Hardwood floors and wool carpet are favored for their beauty and enduring style.”
While interior trends lean toward organic textures, matte finishes and neutral palettes,
Ruggs Benedict’s designers help clients find their own expression within those frameworks. “We feature incredible choices in real wool carpet and real wood floors,” Benedict says. “The naturals are not just a trend — they are always in style.”
Ruggs Benedict stocks many of their most popular natural products locally, which means shorter lead times and faster installations — a major advantage for homeowners juggling construction schedules or preparing vacation properties.
Installation That Stands the Test of Time
Even the most beautiful floor won’t last without the right installation. For Benedict, that’s where the difference truly lies. “Installation matters,” he emphasizes. “Ruggs Benedict does not use freelance installers, and neither should you.”
Instead, the company employs a full-time team of trained flooring professionals who take pride in their craft. This in-house model allows Ruggs Benedict to offer a lifetime installation guarantee — a promise that reflects their confidence and commitment to quality.
“Because of our ability to deliver and install beautiful new floors, we’ve received more than 530 five-star Google reviews,” Benedict notes. “It’s fair to say that five-star service is no longer a goal, it’s our standard.”
Where Expertise Meets Experience
Whether updating a single room or designing an entire home, flooring choices can shape the look, feel and longevity of every space. That’s why the Ruggs Benedict team encourages homeowners to think beyond trends and focus on the harmony between lifestyle and design. Durability meets comfort. Function meets beauty. And under every perfectly placed plank or rug is the same philosophy that built Ruggs Benedict from the ground up: craftsmanship, care and community
As Benedict puts it, “We’ve been flooring the Vail Valley for over five decades — and we’re just getting started.”
ruggsbenedictcarpetoneavon.com
Withstand the snowy commute in style with this 800-down-filled jacket. Leather detailing and contrasting hems around the sleeves and hood are a nod to heritage ski style. With a wind- and water-resistant fabric, there’s no excuse to bail on your buddy because of bad weather.
Fjallraven Greenland No.1 Down Jacket, $500 Christy Sports
Not your standard overcoat. This versatile layering piece features a traditional Norwegian pattern and is lined with thick wool fleece for a piece that will turn heads and keep you toasty.
Harvester Akle Unisex Overshirt, $529 Stio Mountain Studio
Tie it up or cover up. A thick, timeless insulated wool trapper cap with shearling ear flaps for protection from the snow, or fold them up for a cool but casual vibe.
Filson Double Mackinaw Wool Cap, $199 Ski Town All Stars
From the high seas to the high altitude, this water-resistant insulated vest borrows its blueprint from the U.S. Navy deck jacket. With oversized pockets, high-performance fabrics and cool button details, it’s functional for mountain weather, yet stylish for any après scene.
Finisterre Shipyard Insulated Vest, $245
This fair isle sweater isn’t just a classic, it’s your hall pass for skipping the outfit change. Crafted from 100% merino wool, this sweater keeps you toasty, regulates your temp and fends off the funk so you can cruise straight from carving turns to clicking glasses without missing a beat.
Royal Robbins Arch Rock Crew, $150
Christy Sports
Puffy jacket warmth meets flannel shirt swagger. With its snap front, quilted design and lightweight synthetic insulation, it’s your low-profile answer to winter layering. Packable, water-resistant and ready for anything, this insulated shirt in a range of earthy, grounding hues like Stormy Blue is stylish and secretly practical.
Stio Skycrest Insulated Snap Shirt $199
Stio Mountain Studio
Some boots handle the weather — these make the weather worth braving. Crafted from premium full-grain leather, these boots bring timeless style to alpine towns and urban avenues. The rugged Vibram outsole is built for snow stomping, while the Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet dry so you can trudge from the slopes to the streets without skipping a beat.
Danner Mountain Light Boots, $470
Ptarmigan Sports
Mountain Girl Creations
From Hobby to Handmade Hit in the Vail Valley
By Lisa Blake
pieces that spark joy and comfort.
JFind Stott at Gilded Spruce in Vail Village, All the Good Stuff in Edwards and at the Dillon, Vail and Steamboat Springs summer farmers markets. Shop online at mountaingirlcreations.com and check Stott’s Facebook page for her latest event announcements.
enn Stott giggles when she thinks about how frustrated her high school home economics teacher would get when she brought in crushed velvet and other finicky fabrics to class. “I was the biggest pain in Mrs. Dougherty’s butt,” Stott says. “I wanted to learn how to do the hardest things.”
Stott aced home ec — and she still has the purple crushed velvet floor-length gown to prove it. Those early seamstress skills eventually evolved into a passion-fueled career, born from both a need to create and a desire to craft
The 44-year-old Mountain Girl Creations founder has nurtured her skills from hobby seamstress to full-time creative entrepreneur. Her thriving handmade business brings kitchen goodies like bowl koozies, dish towels and pot holders to the Vail Valley in fun patterns speckled with bees, flamingos, moose and more. Stott even added playful beer and golf themes that are popular with male customers looking to spice up their kitchens.
Stott’s journey brought her to Colorado from Rhode Island in 2013, spurred by fond memories of childhood
Steamboat ski vacations and a craving for something more. She left her job as executive assistant to the town manager, sold her home and found a room to rent with a friend who lived in Vail.
“I wanted a different lifestyle. No more nine-to-five grind,” she says. “So, I took the leap, got in my Rav4 with my dog and all of my stuff and drove out here.”
After pinging around the restaurant industry, Stott started eyeing local farmers markets and decided to pull out her old sewing machine. She stitched some pot holders and started making bowl koozies. Today, these 100% cotton microwave-friendly hot bowl holders (and hand-savers) are her best sellers.
“You will wonder how you lasted so long without using one, I promise,” Stott touts on her retail website.
Soon Stott found herself with booths at the Minturn Farmers Market and holiday markets, and doing pop-ups with
other vendors. Shoppers are eager to scoop up her recently released sustainable products — reusable terry cloth paper towels in fun wildlife and beach patterns, reusable flannel facial cloths and reusable snack sandwich bags.
“I want to think outside the creative box,” she says. “I want to make something everyone can use, things people want to give as gifts, something that’s talked about when people go to work and pull out their lunch.”
As Stott evolves the Mountain Girl product line — sewing many hours a day, 365 days a year, usually while sitting on the porch with her dog — she thinks about ways to reduce plastic, to be more eco-friendly, to appeal to a larger audience and to keep the nostalgic magic of sewing alive.
“I met a woman, Jill, whose 82-yearold mother still sews every day,” Stott says. “She makes the aprons I sell
because I don’t have time to make them. She’s 82 and still gets so excited about sewing. That’s special to me.”
When Stott isn’t sewing and selling her wares, she’s dreaming up a business plan for a Vail Valley dog rescue, further fulfilling her mission to do good in the world. +
Taos Ski Valley for Every Traveler Adventure,
Art + Alpine Bliss
By kim fuller
Sometimes the best way to appreciate home is to leave it for a little while. When our family loaded into the van with ski gear, a baby, stroller, dog and more, we were eager for a change of scenery that wasn’t too much of a trek.
Just five hours south of Vail, Taos Ski Valley makes for the perfect weekend road trip — an adventure that blends world-class skiing with the vibrant soul of New Mexico. We soon discovered that this legendary New Mexico resort, celebrating its 70th anniversary this season, has the magic to welcome every kind of traveler: adventure seekers, après enthusiasts and even parents with a 5-month-old in tow.
The drive winds through Colorado’s wide valleys and into New Mexico’s vast desert landscapes, the kind of scenery that reminds you why the open road is still one of the best ways to travel. By
the time we pulled into The Blake at Taos Ski Valley, the resort’s boutique slopeside hotel, we felt both road-weary and completely transported. The Blake is a warm, art-filled refuge with a pet-friendly vibe, and its location — just steps from the lifts — made it easy to settle in. A tasty steak dinner at 192 at The Blake was the perfect way to button up our Thursday travel day.
SKIING + SMALL-TOWN CHARM
Since our son’s arrival last year, my husband and I don’t get out together as often for activities like skiing. It’s to be expected, but with the resort’s on-site childcare, we could drop off our little one as early as 8 a.m., confident he was safe, cared for and entertained, while we clicked into our skis and met our mountain guide.
Taos is famous for its steep chutes and big-mountain access, but the resort
has been steadily investing in thoughtful improvements throughout its terrain. For this season, Lift 7 — originally built in 1984 — has been replaced with a new triple chair, and Maxie’s run has been completely regraded for smoother laps. Icon Pass holders likely know that Taos is on its list, but if that’s news to you it might be extra incentive to explore beyond the Epic Pass.
We skied all morning on Friday and made a stop in the woods at the famous Taos Martini Tree, then traded fast turns for a bratwurst and a stein at The Bavarian, a slopeside spot that feels like a European alpine lodge tucked into the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
The first stop of our après-ski was to the childcare center where we picked up a happy and tired baby. We grabbed the van and drove in to the Town of Taos, about 30 minutes away. Here, adobe walls, colorful galleries and eclectic cafés
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TAOS
SKI VALLEY
paint a picture of New Mexico’s artistic soul. It was a reminder that Taos isn’t just a ski destination, it’s a cultural one. We stumbled upon the restaurant Suchness (later realizing it has quite the foodie following), and were delighted in being so welcomed with our baby. We settled in and stayed awhile, long enough for our son to doze off in his car seat resting on the floor by our table. Husband-wife team Kevin and Meg Sousa have created something very special in their heartfelt and authentic offering of
homemade food, a unique wine list and true hospitality.
SPIRIT OF TAOS
On Saturday, we secured skins to our skis and headed out with our dog toward Williams Lake, tucked below Wheeler Peak, the tallest mountain in New Mexico. Just a short drive from the ski valley base area, the trail begins near The Bavarian and winds through snowy pines and open meadows, where our pup bounded joyfully through the drifts as
we climbed higher. The reward was an al fresco picnic at a sparkling alpine lake rimmed with peaks, frozen in winter silence. Beyond the resort boundaries, ski touring revealed a side of Taos that feels wild, expansive and utterly untouched.
While my husband skied some afternoon laps, I headed to the spa at The Blake Spa & Wellness Center for an alpine facial, a blissful reset after backto-back ski days and late-night feedings. Later, we reunited as a family to stroll through the base area, stopping to peek
Photo by Liam Doran
Photo by Kim Fuller
Photo by Liam Doran
The Bavarian
There was no need for us to fly, but for those based in Denver or elsewhere, Taos Regional Airport is now more accessible than ever. A new Contour Airlines route connects Taos directly to Denver International Airport five days a week.
Photo by Liam Doran
into shops, for a snack at Cid’s Market and to warm up by the fire pits.
I snuck out for an early on-resort ski tour before we packed up to leave on Sunday. Uphill access begins from the base area at 7 a.m. and all skiers must be heading downhill by 9 a.m. The quiet and clear on-mountain morning was the perfect way to get one more dose of Taos before hitting the road. My husband got in a few runs once the lifts started spinning, then swapped ski boots for car keys and drove us all to Arroyo Seco, about 20 minutes down from Taos Ski Valley. A visit to Logan Wannamaker Pottery and a nourishing patio brunch at Sol Food set us on our way home.
The unique spirit of northern New Mexico feels both exhilarating and grounding. It’s the kind of place where adventure and culture meet, making it an ideal weekend escape for anyone craving something new yet timeless. +
Finding Kinship Between Adventure + Culture in the Sonoran Desert
By Courtney Holden
Alate-winter or early spring trip to Arizona provides a much-needed respite from Vail’s frigid temps, not to mention a preseason chance to check out the Rockies’ starting line-up. But besides providing a haven for snowbirds and baseball fans, Phoenix, Arizona and its neighbor city Scottsdale have opportunities aplenty for outdoors-lovers, art aficionados and those keen to explore the interconnectedness of the two.
Upon landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, you’ll no doubt
be eager to get outside and bask in the warm rays beaming down on one of the nation’s sunniest cities. But as you walk to baggage claim, keep your eyes peeled for the Phoenix Airport Museum’s more than 900 paintings, sculptures and aviation artifacts positioned across roughly 40 exhibit spaces.
DESERT DINING + MID-CENTURY GLAM
With your appetite for artistry sated, at least for now, turn your rental car (a convertible, perhaps?) toward Scottsdale.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Photo by Joel Hazelton for Experience Scottsdale
Photo courtesy of Hotel Valley Ho
If you’re visiting in February or March, catch a game (and hopefully a fly ball) at the Rockies’ home away from home, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Otherwise, while away the afternoon at the 140acre Desert Botanical Garden posing next to a historic organ pipe cactus, learning why Arizona’s state tree has green bark and experiencing more than 50,000 plant displays that highlight the beauty and tenacity of the desert.
When your stomach propels you toward dinner, simply head to your hotel, the newly redone (to the tune of $18 million) Hotel Valley Ho. As you check in, ogle mid-century architectural touches blended with Southwest style like the 350-pound, decorative concrete panels lining the lobby, and then make your way to ZuZu, the hotel’s on-site eatery. There, order a collection of dishes to share like short rib empanadas, spicy
Hawaiian ahi tuna and crispy fingerling potatoes. Finish the day with a dip in the Oh Pool, the same massive, round oasis where Bing Crosby, Zsa Zsa Gabor and Marilyn Monroe once lounged.
HIKING, HISTORY + DESERT KINSHIP
The next morning, after filling up your water bottles (bring multiple — you’re in the desert!) and generously applying sunscreen, you’re off to hike the Gateway Loop Trail at McDowell Sonoran Preserve. As you traverse the 4.4-mile loop, you’ll certainly see countless cacti, but if you’re lucky, a black-chinned hummingbird, golden eagle or Sonoran Desert tortoise will make an appearance too. Post-hike, refuel with the poblano chicken enchiladas from neighborhood eatery The Vig (their McDowell Mountain location will be closest) before making your way up the winding drive
Hotel Valley Ho
Taliesin West
getaway
to Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, studio and architectural laboratory, Taliesin West. The audio tour provides rich detail about both the architect and his philosophies, most notably his belief that a building should be inspired by and in harmony with nature. That kinship is easy to see as you take in Taliesin West’s famous “desert masonry” of local stone and wooden forms set before the rising McDowell Mountains.
You’ll no doubt want to freshen up at the hotel before dinner at James Beard Award-nominated Citizen Public House (try house favorites like hoisin pork belly or The Original Chopped Salad, which the state of Arizona recently dubbed a “celebrated culinary staple”), but if there’s time, stop by the Scottsdale Museum of
Contemporary Art (just $16 for an adult walk-up pass) to see completed masterpieces or the Cattle Track Arts Compound to see expert works in-process.
PADDLES, GALLERIES + LOCAL FLAVOR
Wake up on the early side — earlier if you want to try from-scratch cinnamon roll pancakes at Daily Dose Bar & Grill instead of grabbing a quick breakfast from ZuZu — because your put-in time at Saguaro Lake will likely be around 10 a.m. Once there, your American Canoe Association-certified guide from Riverbound Sports will walk you through the basics of kayaking. Then, paddle out to see the lake’s creativity-inspiring desert shoreline (covered with, you guessed it, saguaros) and rock walls that rise up to 1,000 feet in some areas.
Look for similar imagery on a smaller scale when you return to Old Town Scottsdale and, after a crispy chicken sammie (look for “The OG” on the menu) from funky-chic DoDo Bird Kitchen + Cocktails, browse through the area’s more than 60 art galleries. You’ll find that Amery Bohling Fine Art and Jim Sudal Ceramic Design in particular capture the morning’s scenery, the former with oils and the latter in pottery. When happy hour comes around, match a prickly pear marg with the house guac from The Mission’s Old Town Scottsdale location. Stick around for more modern Latin main courses.
SOARING HIGH: BALLOON VIEWS + BRUNCH
Begin your last day on a high note with Hot Air Expeditions, which Fodor’s Travel has called the “Best Balloon Flight in Phoenix” for 26 consecutive years. Your roughly hour-long ride in the sky takes you up to 3,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert, allowing ample time to survey mountains in the distance and look for local wildlife. Upon returning to terra firma, you’ll be treated to a Champagne brunch amidst the desert scenery you just saw from above. And after reciting the Balloonist’s Blessing, you’ll raise your glass to adventure, to beauty and to a place that inspires both. +
Hot Air Expeditions
Daily Dose Bar + Grill
Photo by Analisa Shah for Experience Scottsdale
3 FEMALEOWNED BUSINESSES CREATIVELY ELEVATE SPECIAL OCCASIONS
WWith so much uncertainty going on in the world, there is a lot to be said about commemorating happy moments — and the Vail Valley knows how to celebrate. Three locally owned and operated businesses — My Balloon Obsession, The Grazing Fox and Fancy Pansy — have become integral in thoughtfully ensuring occasions are more joyful, vibrant and memorable through their innovative art. Although their disciplines differ, these businesses share common ground: all are female-owned, born from side gigs and rooted in colorful creativity. Each founder elevates events by making people feel special, prioritizes artistry in their craft and delivers curated, customized experiences for every client.
By Laura Lieff
PHOTO BY 11 ELEVEN CREATIVES
The Grazing Fox
After over 20 years in the restaurant industry, Pamela Davis was ready for something different. The longtime local has a passion for authentic hospitality, and an impressive history that includes helping to conceptualize and open Bol (which is still in Vail) and Yellowbelly (which used to be in West Vail). Davis handled many behind-the-scenes, dayto-day operations until she got pregnant and stepped back from hospitality.
During that time, she was known among their friend group for hosting annual cheese parties for which she made lavish charcuterie boards that prompted her guests to ask why she wasn’t turning those boards into a business. Finally, an event industry friend convinced her to do it and The Grazing Fox was born. “It started small and then, in 2020, I got my commercial kitchen and the floodgates opened,” Davis remembers. “It was all word-of-mouth and the universe just sent it.”
Next thing she knew, The Grazing Fox was handling high-end amenities for the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail and receiving calls for corporate events, weddings, rafting trips and private soirées. Davis says that after COVID-19, people were excited to gather and share food and experiences which is what The Grazing Fox is about — bringing groups together around artistic, thoughtfully-designed grazing boards and tables. “We take pride in sourcing the finest ingredients and ensuring that every board and table is a masterpiece of flavor, texture and design,” adds Davis.
She describes assembling her creations as “collaborative pieces of art” because multiple people are involved and a lot of thought goes into the details of each board and table. Once completed, it usually takes at least two people to carry and transport these creations to their destinations. “I love my job because I get to be an artist every day, work with food and make people’s vacations better,” Davis explains. “It’s so cool to create something with intention knowing that it will bring joy. People are happy to see us and it’s an honor to be included in their special occasions.” +
For more information, visit thegrazingfox.com
My Balloon Obsession
Founded in 2017, My Balloon Obsession was conceived by LeeAnna Salazar — a graphic designer who grew up in Eagle County and inherited the family party store called Party Central. After graduating from the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design, she managed the graphic design for several national and local organizations while also helping her mother at Party Central. After her mom passed away, Salazar closed the shop but was still fielding calls about balloons. “The balloon industry experienced a renaissance during COVID,” Salazar explains. “I received so many calls around that time that my hobby turned into a full-on business.” She also credits social media for the recent balloon boom. “People used to think balloons were cheesy or just for kids but that has changed,” she adds.
These days, My Balloon Obsession is the premier company for hotels, restaurants and private clients looking to celebrate in style. Locals and visitors call Salazar to construct a wide array of intricate balloon arrangements for celebrations like birthdays, weddings and graduations because her artistic creations make events more extraordinary. “Balloons have made their mark as a symbol of joy,” says Salazar, but there is more to them than just bright colors and helium.
She explains that designing and assembling balloons starts with basic techniques but also requires attention to detail, dealing with fluctuating helium prices and understanding the science. For example, she takes into account weather elements, temperature shifts and the effects of altitude. “My shop is located at one elevation, but when I drive to higher altitudes within the Valley, I keep in mind that balloons expand,” she explains. “In the beginning I learned the hard way about balloons popping in transit, but now I always consider the elements, look at the weather and have tools with me in case I need to pivot.”
Pivoting aside, Salazar is glad to be in a cheerful line of work. “People’s eyes light up when they see me because they know the party has arrived,” she adds. “Balloons are a visual representation of happiness for both adults and kids. Sometimes I can’t believe I get to do this for a living.” +
For more information, visit myballoonobsession.com
Fancy Pansy
Flowers have always been part of Frankie Sheridan’s life because her mother was constantly doing something beautiful with them. But it wasn’t until Sheridan’s Vail Resorts development job was eliminated that she decided it was time for a new career. As she contemplated opening her own flower shop, she researched existing locations, took a sixweek flower arranging class and worked part-time in the City Market floral department for a year. After all of that, she decided to venture out on her own.
In 2017, Fancy Pansy opened in Avon. “Flowers aren’t just about design — they are about helping people feel seen, celebrated and connected,” Sheridan explains. “We are involved in the most intimate moments of people’s lives (both happy
and sad) and those milestones matter.”
Throughout the year, Fancy Pansy creates arrangements using fresh, seasonal flowers that are carefully tailored to each event, restaurant, holiday and person. She adds, “Flowers bring the outdoors inside with a cozy, special feel. When people walk into a place and see flowers — whether it’s a restaurant or an event — they know it’s an important occasion.”
When asked about the artistry of floral arrangements, Sheridan says the ability to look at clients’ inspiration photos and know exactly what they need and how to execute it comes with experience. But that’s not the only aspect that sets Fancy Pansy apart — “it’s also about how we treat people,” she says. “My staff cares as much as I do and we all take the time to pay attention to details, provide helpful suggestions and work with clients to meet their vision.”
SHARED PASSION FOR JOYFUL OCCASIONS
Because Salazar, Davis and Sheridan are deeply rooted in the Vail Valley community, and are in the business of artistically enriching events, they often cross paths which they all enjoy. People are always excited to see balloons, food and flowers — especially when they are presented in such imaginative ways — which is why clients prioritize having them at their most significant occasions.
Clearly the artistry, expertise and time behind these creations is important and the innovative efforts of these three women — like the occasions they elevate — are absolutely worth celebrating. +
Photo by Frankie Sheridan
Photo by Christy Buster
Eagle County
Animal Shelter + Services
Nurturing the Animal-Human Bond
By Sandy Ferguson Fuller
RRhiannon Rowe is the manager of the Eagle County Animal Shelter & Services (ECAS) in Eagle. Her daily work embraces this kinship between humans and animals. She is passionate about “showing love to all creatures, big and small,” while also reinforcing “how animals can enrich our lives if we work together and support each other.” In August 2025, she celebrated 14 years at the shelter, starting as a part-time kennel tech when she moved to the Vail Valley.
“I love every day here,” Rowe reflects. “It’s an emotional job, but very rewarding. I have a great staff and support system. In Colorado, we’re lucky. We have an incredible number of shelters where we don’t limit space or time for rescued or surrendered animals. ECAS works with rescues around the state and surrounding states, like Best Friends Animal Society, to help network and rehome animals.”
FROM RESCUE TO FOREVER HOME
ECAS accepts dogs, cats and pocket pets, but not livestock. In the past, they have taken in chickens during a wildfire and four kittens from the Rangely Animal Shelter during the Meeker fire in 2025.
“Sometimes another shelter comes to us, or vice-versa,” Rowe explains. “We routinely transfer in animals from larger shelters to allow them a better chance to find their forever home. We’ve had success placing many awesome pets. If we have a cat or dog that has been with us for a while, we may work with another shelter to transfer them out to gain fresh eyes. We also work with breed-specific rescues or foster-based rescues if we feel an animal might do better in that environment instead of at our shelter."
“There are so many different opportunities and you can’t do it alone,” she adds. “We call ourselves ‘a socially conscious shelter.’ We search for every
ECAS Manager
Rhianna Rowe and her dog, Stevie
answer to give each animal a suitable outcome. Still, if one suffers from serious medical or behavior issues, we’re not going to needlessly hold onto it. It must also be safe to adopt out into the community. Luckily, we don’t need to make those difficult decisions often, because it’s the hardest part of the job.”
For Rowe, the best part is to see an animal arrive in dire straits, to help them get better and feel good, to learn to trust people, to find their new home and send them off on their next journey.
“Along with our sheltering department, we have amazing animal control officers working in the community,” she says. “If anyone finds a stray, the officers respond to a call and come out to scan the animal for a microchip. Lacking any
identification, they bring the animal back here to be safely held. Immediately, we post information on our website and Facebook page. We check our spreadsheet to match any filed lost report. If we don’t receive an owner response within five days, the animal becomes county property. Each is spayed or neutered if needed, vaccinated, dewormed, (heartworm test for dogs six months and older), microchipped (essential!) and behavior-assessed. Then they go up for adoption. We encourage new owners to immediately establish a vet relationship to ensure all of their pet’s needs.”
ECAS services are funded by Eagle County. They also accept material donations and equipment for the animals’ benefit. A donations wish list is on their
“Kinship with all creatures of the earth, sky and water was a real and active principle among the Lakota. In the animal and bird worlds, there existed a brotherly feeling that kept the Lakota safe among them.”
– Luther Standing Bear
website. They keep surroundings and schedules as normal and “homelike” as possible. Dogs have spacious runs and agility equipment, plus toys and enrichment puzzles in the kennels. Fresh air and exercise is key, and volunteers give regular walks. Cats enjoy a cozy and safe place to hide if nervous or shy, and recently, a new “catio” entertains more social ones, often kittens. Rowe’s priority is to provide consistency with feeding time, play or visitation time, down time and lights out at bedtime. “They need to know what to expect,” she adds.
VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF THE SHELTER
ECAS welcomes volunteers ages 10 and up (parents must accompany until age 16) and offers flexible scheduling. The volunteer portal is easily accessible to complete an application. Once reviewed and approved, basic training steps are required, a tour, then orientation, and you’re ready to join an enthusiastic group and to help out.
Nancy Lamontagne is a valued, veteran volunteer. What inspired her work at ECAS? “I grew up with every kind of animal imaginable. Now because I travel so much, it’s hard to own one. Volunteering runs in my family and I can get my animal fix.”
Lamontagne has been at the Humane Society in Phoenix for nine years and ECAS for two years, previously volunteering in Summit County. When in Eagle, she visits the cats one or two mornings a week.
“With cats, I do mostly behavioral training. If any animal is skittish, it’s less likely to be adopted,” she says. Lamontagne uses skills learned from experience to help cats feel comfortable, interact, play and even cuddle. “Each one is different,” she adds. “I always need to figure out what is the best approach for the individual cat. It's very rewarding to see an animal's behavior improve.”
HEARTWARMING JOURNEYS
Many animals stand out as ECAS success stories. Like Morris.
Morris is an affectionate tabby, a
Volunteer
Nancy Lamontagne
Houdini-like escape artist and one of the shelter’s favorite graduates. His original owner lost him while traveling through Colorado and he was brought to the shelter. Not microchipped, the owner put in a report to ECAS. They matched his found location and confirmed his identity. The owner chose not to return to reclaim him, hoping he would be easy to adopt out. Finally, on a third attempt with the expert help of the Lakewood, Colorado Cat Care Society, he found his happy forever home. Now he’s living his best life!
Rowe has many similar heartwarming adoption stories.
Joey, a chihuahua, was surrendered to ECAS as a young adult from a family that could not afford his care. He was born with a chronic, painful leg condition. After conversing with the shelter vet and a local orthopedic surgeon, Joey underwent a patellar luxation surgery for
his left hind leg and an amputation for his right hind leg. It was a long recovery process, but with assurance to greatly increase his quality of life. After the surgeries, he was in a foster home during his full recovery. His foster family fell in love and he became a permanent family member. Today, Joey enjoys walks with his sister and lives a wonderful life.
Rowe is especially proud of creating the animal-human bond with kids, starting young: “We work with schools and summer camps, both projects at the shelter and in our animal welfare education programs. I love it when these groups want to be involved. Future volunteers! It builds compassion not only for animals, but humans, too. The kids see that just doing simple things, like making an adoption poster, can make such a difference.”
The essence of kinship … Luther Standing Bear would agree. +
How Plant-Based Ski Wax Can Make a World of Difference
By Lu Snyder
PPeter Arlein wasn’t looking to change the world when he began to experiment with making plant-based ski wax, but he hoped to create a product that would allow him, and others, to make better choices for the mountains and lifestyle he loves.
An avid skier and longtime ski tech, Arlein has waxed hundreds of skis over the years. One day, as he waxed yet another pair of skis in the small back room of a ski shop, he wondered: what exactly is in ski wax?
“I assumed it was just made of wax,” he says, and laughs. “Then I learned wax is made from petroleum. Not just ski wax, but the candles in our house, the wax on our food — it’s all petroleum-based. That really grossed me out.”
It’s true: paraffin wax and other synthetic waxes are the by-product of the petroleum industry. And it turns out synthetic wax is not the only ingredient in traditional ski waxes. The waxes are formulated with a number of chemicals — some have been known toxins — which help repel water and dirt in order to improve glide and increase speed as you slide across the snow.
“When I learned about the quantity of wax used every year in the U.S. alone, and how all of that ends up directly in the snowpack and then in the watershed, it really got me motivated to come up with a solution,” says Arlein.
That was almost 10 years ago. Now Arlein’s company, MountainFLOW Eco Wax, based in Carbondale, Colorado,
sells a variety of plant-based ski waxes and bike lubricants (all packaged conscientiously in an effort to reduce long-lasting waste). It is one of the largest plantbased ski wax companies in the nation.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT
While few of us have the motivation, knowledge and determination to create an environmentally friendly product (and company) as Arlein did, his work can serve as an example to all of us: Change begins with small steps. If we can each consider the environmental impact of our lives — from what we eat and buy, to how we travel and play — and begin to make new and informed choices, we can make a difference.
It all begins with education, says
Walking Mountains Science Center guides lead backcountry snowshoe hikes that connect participants to the natural world — teaching how a love for snow, mountains and wildlife can inspire everyday environmental stewardship.
Melissa Kirr, senior programs director of sustainability at Walking Mountains Science Center in Eagle County, which works to inspire environmental stewardship and sustainability through natural science education.
Most of us who ski and snowboard love the outdoors. We love the snow, the seasons, the mountains, the beauty. Much of the joy we derive from our snow sports comes from that deeper sense of connection with place, a kinship with nature.
Recognizing that connection is the first step toward becoming an environmental steward, Kirr says. “If you’re already wanting to be outdoors, it seems right to want to take care of that relationship.”
She and her colleagues at Walking Mountains Science Center recognize that not everyone thinks alike, nor do they necessarily have the same values. So, in their work to promote environ -
mental stewardship and sustainability, they focus on helping people find common ground.
“For the ski industry, it would be wanting to be outside, to be on the snow, to have snow, to enjoy nature and be healthy, happy humans,” Kirr says. “Thinking about it in those ways can help people understand why change is important.”
“It’s a funny dichotomy, because skiers and snowboarders love to play outside, they love the beauty of nature … but as an industry, it’s not particularly green,” Arlein says.
Ski wax may seem like a small thing — and maybe in the realm of the ski industry’s environmental impact, it is. But consider that all the wax on the base of each of our skis and snowboards scrapes off into the snow with each run we take. That wax remains in the snow as it melts each spring and flows into our
watershed, affecting not only the health of our rivers, aquatic life and wildlife, but also, ourselves.
PFAS + FOREVER CHEMICALS
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, traditional ski waxes contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS. PFAS are a group of chemicals, known as “forever chemicals,” widely used in many products, from ski wax to cookware, household products and more. Similar to microplastics, they don’t break down and have been found in waterways and in the blood of both humans and animals. Studies indicate exposure to these chemicals is harmful to our health.
“It’s a classic micro-pollution problem, in the sense that you can’t see the wax in the snow, but it’s going there and it’s accumulating and it’s millions of pounds every year,” Arlein says.
vail nordic center
Peter Arlein turned his curiosity about what’s really in ski wax into a movement for cleaner slopes and streams. His 100% plant-based ski wax is helping skiers make more sustainable choices for the mountains they love.
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) began banning the use of fluorocarbon-based ski wax in races, as part of a greater movement to ban those PFAS through legislation.
“Not everybody likes to be told what to do, but legislation is one way of pushing people to be environmental stewards,” Kirr says.
Though Colorado’s legislation works to remove ski wax as a source of PFAS in our watershed and environment, some people continue to use the product.
“I know there are a lot of people out there that are passing them on for others to use,” she explains. “That’s not the right way. We need to get it out of the system.”
Park City, Utah is working to do just that. Home to two ski areas and a Nordic center, the mountain town banned the use of fluoro waxes in 2023, after it discovered PFAS in its drinking water and traced the source to the ski areas. To prevent banned waxes from being used,
the municipality launched a “takeback” program, allowing residents and visitors to turn in their fluoro wax in exchange for a trade-in or discount on an environmentally friendly alternative.
While many, if not all, ski wax manufacturers now offer an environmentally friendly alternative to fluoro waxes, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s plant-based.
“For the most part, they don’t have to disclose their ingredients,” Arlein says. “Yeah, maybe there’s less fluorinated wax on the market now, but it’s still petroleum-based and we don’t know what’s in there. What we do know is it all ends up in our watershed.”
On the contrary, MountainFLOW Eco Wax is made of five ingredients and is 100% plant-based.
“There’s no mystery,” he says. “There’s no scary chemicals.”
SMALL STEPS, BIG CHANGE
Arlein is passionate about his work and the fact that his company makes products
that are as safe for his young children as they are for the environment. It’s a step toward cleaning up the sport he loves.
“I think it’s a step in the right direction,” Arlein says. “It might be a small step, but it’s part of the solution.”
Sometimes, as individuals, we feel powerless in the face of the environmental consequences of our society, including our sports. But each of us has the power to make change, says Peter Franson, watershed restoration manager at the Eagle River Coalition, which works to advocate and protect the health of the Upper Colorado and Eagle River watersheds.
“Be mindful of where you’re getting your products from and the businesses you are supporting by purchasing their product,” Franson says. “There is room to advocate for different practices. There is room to support specific groups or businesses who are trying to make change.”
“I think doing small things can go a long way, because, eventually, those small things add up and we really start making an impact,” Arlein says.
There is a quote Kirr loves to repeat when illustrating how education can lead to environmental stewardship: In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught.
“Again, it goes back to those values and loving where you live and hoping to find connection between your life and the world we live in, which is nature,” she says. +
From Stigma to Strength
How Women and Science Are Redefining Menopause
by Lu Snyder
For generations, women have navigated menopause quietly, often in confusion or shame. But today’s Gen-X women are rewriting that story — armed with better science, stronger voices and a growing community of support.
“It was a difficult time to be a woman and it was a difficult time to be a physician,” says Dr. Jennifer Bettenhausen, Vail Health family medicine physician, recalling the years after a 2002 Women’s Health Initiative study on hormone therapy cast widespread fear and confusion. “We suddenly felt like we may be doing harm.”
That study’s flawed conclusions slammed the door on hormone therapy, leaving women to struggle through hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, weight gain and emotional turbulence with little guidance. Many didn’t realize their symptoms were tied to perimenopause or menopause.
Now, after two decades of research and renewed attention, that silence is finally breaking.
A New Era of Awareness
“In the last three to five years, we have this amazing opportunity to re-energize the conversation,” says Christine Pierangeli, a master nutrition therapist who leads a menopause support group at Vail Health. “Knowledge is incredibly powerful in managing our expectations.”
Doctors like Bettenhausen and OB/GYN Dr. Kiara Bowen are part of Team Menopause, a Vail Health group of providers advancing education and care for women in midlife. Updated research affirms the benefits and safety of hormone therapy for many patients, encouraging women — and their physicians — to take a new look at treating the symptoms of menopause.
“The science, the research and the evidence around menopause, specifically around hormone therapy and its health benefits for women, is changing every day,” Bowen says.
Both providers now bring menopause into conversation early, even with women in their 20s and 30s. Understanding hormonal
changes before they happen gives women a head start. “When I treat a (menopausal) woman, I really try to tease out which of her symptoms are the most distressing so we can target those — and determine how (best) to treat them,” Bowen says. “Not everyone is a candidate for hormone therapy.”
The Midlife Reset
Menopause can feel like a loss of youth or femininity, but Bowen suggests reframing it as an opportunity. “I think the post-menopausal part of life can be an exciting, enriching and empowering time,” she says.
Estrogen affects nearly every system — reproductive, muscular, metabolic, even mental health — so hormonal shifts ripple widely. Bowen encourages a biopsychosocial approach, treating the biology as well as mental and social dimensions.
“You really can’t treat any ailment with medicine alone,” she says. “Lifestyle, exercise and diet can contribute to or help with symptoms.”
Bettenhausen agrees. “We can skate through our 20s, 30s and even into our 40s, eating what we want and drinking too much wine, but as you get into your mid- to late-40s and hormones start to drop, we really can’t. It forces women to say, ‘What do I need to do so I can feel better?’”
Pierangeli recommends eliminating processed foods, added sugars and alcohol, and focusing on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, lean meats and cold-water fish like salmon.
Menopause in the Mountains
For many Colorado women, staying active is second nature. “Staying active, staying fit and staying strong really helps women during the perimenopausal transition,” Bowen says.
While many local women enjoy cardiovascular exercise through hiking, biking and skiing, strength training is also critical. “As women get older, fractures and fragility really affect their longevity,” Bowen explains. “Hav-
Menopause Like a Mountain Woman Tips for Thriving Through the Transition
Stay active — move daily and lift heavy weights.
Eat an anti-inflammatory diet — skip sugar and alcohol.
Practice mindfulness, yoga or breathwork.
Find your community and talk openly.
Seek care from a boardcertified provider.
ing a fall and a hip or an arm fracture really decreases the quality of life … A lot of people want to focus on cardio, but I love talking about strength training and weight lifting — the heavier the better.”
Exercise also supports stress management, which is crucial in midlife, when women often juggle careers, teenagers, empty nests, and aging parents. “It’s a challenging time of life,” says Bettenhausen.
Menopause can be a turning point — not an ending, but a beginning. Bowen encourages reflection: “Really looking at: ‘What am I going to do? What brings me joy? What are my coping strategies?’”
Some cultures call this phase the “second spring.” Pierangeli agrees: “It’s an opportunity to really look inward and think about who we are.”
RECOVER AFTER A DAY OF ADVENTURE
Indulge in massages, facials, recovery services, and oxygen treatments - where every service includes access to our heated pool, outdoor hot tubs, sauna, and steam rooms.
16 Vail Rd, Located on the Lobby Level of The Sebastian - Vail
Mark Koelker
From Local Slopes to Global Contests
By Laura Lieff
For the last decade, 24-yearold Eagle County local and Weston Snowboards ambassador Mark Koelker has been judging snowboard slopestyle, halfpipe and big air contests around the world. He started judging World Cup events throughout Colorado and worked his way up to become an A-level judge, traveling to places like Sweden, Georgia (the country), Beijing and Switzerland for various events. In January, he will be at the Aspen World Cup and the Laax Open in Switzerland. In February, Koelker will judge the highest level of competition: slopestyle at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy.
“I’m excited, humbled and grateful for this opportunity,” says Koelker. “Traveling to Italy for the Olympics is the culmination of 10 years of work. When I was a kid, I watched every Olympic event
so mesmerized that his schoolteacher father once borrowed one from a student. The rest is history. “I was obsessed with that snowboard, so I taught myself how to ride on the local hill and never skied again,” he reminisces.
When Koelker turned 12, his mother bought him his first snowboard — much to his father’s dismay. “Back then, snowboarders were considered punks and my dad didn’t want me to become that,” Koelker laughs. “He’s come around!”
with my family so to be there as the sole American snowboard judge is unreal.”
Koelker credits his friend Jeremy Lepore for convincing him to delve into judging. “I was never a ‘contest guy’ and always had a full-time job, so I wasn’t sure I had the time,” he recalls. But soon Koelker realized that judging the best riders in the world was worth exploring. He adds, “Being part of something this big is such a cool way to be involved in the sport I love most.”
SNOWSPORT HISTORY
Before making Colorado his home, Koelker and his brother Ben grew up on a farm in Wisconsin where they learned to ski at the local hill. He remembers their mother coaxing him onto the chairlift with doughnuts and then building ski jumps with Ben. A few years later, Koelker saw kids on snowboards and was
Every day after school, the brothers stacked wood to heat the family home and then drove to the ski hill. In 2001, Koelker moved to Eagle County.
Upon arrival, he immediately immersed himself in the snowboard community — which he found extremely welcoming — and earned sponsorships with Sapient Snowboards and Allyance Outerwear. “It quickly became clear that this was where I needed to be,” he remembers. “I met some of my best friends on chairlifts, at the local pizza joint and at the snowboard shop.”
Over two decades later, Koelker’s passion for snowboarding and connection with the outdoors remains strong. When he’s not judging contests across the globe, he’s enjoying adventures with Ben, his wife Jen, their dogs and their friends. As for the Olympics, Koelker almost doesn’t believe it himself. “It blows my mind that I’m getting this chance. I’ve judged Shaun White and get to high-five Mia Brookes. I’m still starstruck.” +
Photo by Ben Koelker
BioMed Spa Vail welcomes Krissy Evancho to the team as an experienced and well-loved medical esthetician.
DECEMBER
Home for the Holidays
Gypsum
December 4, 2025
Join the annual festive, family-friendly holiday celebration with Santa, reindeer, park lighting, carols, crafts and treats! Don't miss the Gypsum Gingerbread Contest — bring your creations by 5 p.m. for a chance to win cash prizes. townofgypsum.com
Stifel Birds of Prey Audi FIS
Ski World Cup
Beaver Creek
December 4-7, 2025
Winter begins at this annual early-season ski race in Beaver Creek, bringing world-class racing to the slopes. Cheer and celebrate in Beaver Creek village with ski films, live music, Beers of Prey, watch parties, sponsor giveaways and more. bcworldcup.com
Christmas on Broadway Eagle
December 6, 2025
Celebrate the season in downtown Eagle with a day full of festivities. From a family-friendly fun run to pictures with Santa and a Christmas parade, this event serves up small-town charm with lots of local love. eagleoutside.com
Vail Kris Kringle Market
Vail
December 11-14, 2025
Bundle up and wander into a winter wonderland. Stroll through Vail Village’s International Bridge for a holiday market featuring Colorado artisans, baked goods, artisanal foods and treats under festive lights and garland. Sip on glühwein (German mulled wine) and enjoy musical entertainment, kids’ activities and more. vailfarmersmarket.com
Alpine EDM Experience
Vail
December 13, 2025
Electronic music meets mountain magic at Ford Park. Dance under the stars with world-class DJs, dazzling visuals and an energetic crowd surrounded by Vail’s snowy backdrop. discovervail.com
Vail Ugly Sweater Fun Run
Vail
December 14, 2025
Break out your best (or worst) holiday sweater for the 2025 Ugly Sweater Fun Run, a festive, non-competitive race in Lionshead. Choose between a 5K or a 1-mile route, then stick around for prizes, hot drinks and plenty of post-run cheer. discovervail.com
Winter Solstice Party
Vail
December 20, 2025
Ring in the longest night of the year at Two Arrows. Dance, mingle and delight in seasonal flavors, all to the beat of great music. twoarrowscoffee.com
Havana Nights New Year’s Eve
Vail
December 31, 2025
Dress to impress and dance the year away. Don tropical wedding attire. Think bold colors, floral prints, sequins, ruffles and fedoras. Entertainment includes a nine-piece band, a DJ, salsa dancers and interactive performers, including fire spinners. Enjoy tropical flair appetizers, a champagne toast, dessert and drinks for purchase. chasingrabbitsvail.com
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Gypsum
December 31, 2025
Ring in the new year with crafts and family activities inside the Gypsum Recreation Center. Then head outside for hot chocolate and s’mores on the back patio as fireworks light up the winter sky. townofgypsum.com
Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
Vail
December 31, 2025
Golden Peak glows on New Year's Eve as the Vail Ski and Snowboard School weaves down the slopes in a shimmering torchlight parade. Then cap off the night with a grand fireworks finale. discovervail.com
JANUARY
Winter Culinary Weekend
Beaver Creek
January 2026
Beaver Creek Winter Culinary Weekend features cooking demos, wine pairings and top-notch skiing. Explore McCoy Park, enjoy the Snowshoe & Gourmet Lunch and Après-Ski Burgers & Beers. Ski.Eat.Ski returns, blending skiing with a luxurious lunch. beavercreek.com
Christmas Tree Burning
Eagle
January 6, 2026
On the twelfth night of Christmas, Eagle residents bundle up and bring their used Christmas trees to a pasture for a community bonfire. Neighbors sip on hot chocolate as they gather to enjoy a tradition that has lasted decades. eagleoutside.com
Rocky Mountain Ski Fest
Beaver Creek
January 13-14, 2026
The Rocky Mountain Ski Fest and National Pediatric Cancer Foundation join forces to save lives. Enjoy exclusive concerts by Old Dominion and Edwin McCain at the Vilar Performing Arts Center, plus celebrity ski days, all to raise funds for pediatric cancer research. rockymtnskifest.com
Avon Fireworks
Avon
January 17, 2026
Bundle up and sip on free hot cocoa (with or without a splash of peppermint schnapps) and chocolate chip cookies while you listen to live music and watch the sky light up with fireworks over Nottingham Lake. avon.org
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Broadway Tribute
Beaver Creek
January 23, 2026
Relive the soundtrack of a generation with The Simon & Garfunkel Story. A live band brings their biggest hits to life, following their journey from the early beginnings to worldwide fame. vilarpac.org
Arrowhead Uphill and Skimo
Beaver Creek
January 25, 2026
VRD’s Winter Race Series at Arrowhead is a local’s favorite route with 1,700 feet of vert to the top of the Arrow Bahn Lift. Whether you ascend on skis, a splitboard, spikes or shoes with tread, event participants finish with a warm breakfast at Broken Arrow Restaurant. vailrec.com
Intro to Inversions at Revolution Power Yoga
Avon
January 27, 2026
Turn your perspective upside down in this empowering workshop. Whether you want to try something new or looking to refine your technique, these 90 minutes will help you build strength, control and confidence to invert safely. You will begin with a grounding flow, engaging your shoulders, core and balance. revolutionpoweryoga.com
Retreat with Vitality
Roaring Fork Valley
January 29- February 1, 2026
Find your winter haven at Beyul Retreat with Sofia Chay and the community from the beloved Eagle wellness studio. Enjoy three nights in cozy cabins, nourishing meals, six yoga and sound healing opportunities, daily outdoor adventuring, sauna, cold plunge, hot tub and more. vitalityeagle.com
FEBRUARY
Talons Challenge
Beaver Creek
February 2026
Tackle the challenge of Beaver Creek’s 14 toughest black and double black runs! Complete all 14 runs and earn prizes, patches and bragging rights as a true “Master of the Mountain.” Wrap up the adventure at the postevent party in the village with live music and exciting giveaways. beavercreek.com
Vail Mountain Winter Uphill Vail
February 8, 2026
Race 2,200 feet on groomed trails up Vail Mountain to Eagle’s Nest. The race pays tribute to Vail local Lyndon Ellefson, who helped shape the U.S. Men’s Mountain Running Program, with a portion of the entry fees supporting the U.S. Mountain Running Team. vailrec.com
Restore and Receive at Revolution Power Yoga
Avon
February 10, 2026
Unwind and renew in this deeply nurturing restorative yoga experience. Every shape is enhanced with extended hands-on assists and therapeutic touch from licensed massage therapist Holly Beavers. These 90 minutes are designed to melt away tension and calm your nervous system. revolutionpoweryoga.com
Avenue Q - The Musical Eagle
February 13-15 + 19-21, 2026
Part puppet show, part musical comedy, this award-winning show tackles life’s big lessons, like life and love after college, with plenty of laughs. Tickets include dinner, drinks and dessert. porchlightplayers.com
Foreigner “Power Acoustic”
Beaver Creek
February 25-26, 2026
Experience a night of legendary classic rock. With 10 multi-platinum albums and 16 Top 30 hits, Foreigner remains one of the most celebrated rock bands in the world. Catch them live for two nights at the Vilar Performing Arts Center. vilarpac.org
MARCH
Vail Cup
Beaver Creek
March 2026
Founded in 1963, Ski Club Vail launched its first Rocky Mountain Ski Association race, sparking the creation of the Vail Cup. Over 50 years later, the Vail Cup remains a family-friendly series hosted by Ski & Snowboard Club Vail. The annual event is open to the public and welcomes both young skiers and snowboarders. vailcup.com
Cirque Mechanics TILT!
Beaver Creek
March 3, 2026
Step right up! Cirque Mechanics is bringing their whimsical world to life in Tilt! Set under the lights of a Ferris wheel, this inventive performance weaves in acrobats, storytelling and plenty of surprises. vilarpac.org
Shamrock Shuffle
Vail
March 15, 2026
The Vail Recreation District’s Krueger Family Shamrock Shuffle brings a festive, green-themed celebration with 5K, 10K and kids’ 1K races. Held on the scenic Vail Nordic Center trails, participants can compete in snowshoe, Yaktrax or running categories. A lively post-race party follows the funfilled event. vailrec.com
An Evening with Drew and Ellie Holcomb
Beaver Creek
March 20, 2026
After two decades of marriage, music and a family, Drew and Ellie Holcomb have finally joined forces for their first full-length album. The Americana duo from Nashville brings heartwarming folk music and soulful harmonies to the stage. vilarpac.org
Vandelux (DJ Set)
Vail
March 28, 2026
Doors open at 10 p.m. at Chasing Rabbits. The artist spins a kaleidoscope of emotions with pulsating beats, glistening keys and iridescent melodies. This event is only for people 21+. discovervail.com
APRIL
Spring Eggstravaganza
Gypsum
April 1, 2026
Hop on over to Gypsum for Easter activities for all ages. Don’t miss this spring celebration with egg hunts, bouncy houses, crafts and an appearance by the Easter Bunny. townofgypsum.com
Taste of Vail
Vail
April 1-4, 2026
Prepare your palate — Taste of Vail serves up four decadent days of food, wine and alpine charm. Chefs, artisans, experts and food enthusiasts from around the world convene in Vail for events ranging from Après Tasting in Vail Village to the iconic Mountaintop Tasting. tasteofvail.com
Pop Up Après
Beaver Creek
April 2, 2026
After a day of family fun on the hill, mingle throughout Beaver Creek Village for a one-of-a-kind après adventure. Sip some bubbly or a craft cocktail, enjoy live music from local artists and explore the fine art galleries. beavercreek.com
Avon Egg Hunt
Avon
April 4, 2026
Nottingham Park transforms into a springtime playground with family-friendly games, inflatable features and a petting zoo. But the highlight of the day is the 10,000 eggs scattered for kids. avon.org
Dinosaur World Live
Beaver Creek
April 9, 2026
Dinosaur World Live invites families to experience the thrills and surprises of the Jurassic era — including a towering T. Rex — in an interactive adventure. vilarpac.org
Après @ The Amp
Vail
April 10-11, 2026
The vibrant two-night celebration returns for its fourth year at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. Dance under the open sky, enjoy live music and breathe in the fresh air and at this end-of-winter soirée.
discovervail.com
MAY
Boneyard Boogie
Eagle
May 17, 2026
Start the trail run season with the Boneyard Boogie, a 14k or 6k race through Eagle’s scenic singletrack that winds through pinyon groves and juniper shrubs. vailrec.com
Vail Comedy Festival
Vail
May 22-24, 2026
Get ready for legendary laughs. Comedy takes center stage as more than 30 comedians hit town for the Vail Comedy Festival across multiple venues with soldout crowds and endless laughs. vailcomedyfestival.com
SpringFree Bluegrass Festival
Vail
May 22-24, 2026
This boot-stomping free music festival returns for three days of bluegrass spread throughout multiple stages in Vail Village. springfreebluegrassfest.com
Blues, Brews & BBQ
Beaver Creek
May 22-24, 2026
Kick off Memorial Day Weekend at Beaver Creek’s Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival with live blues music, craft beers and mouth-watering barbecue from top pitmasters across Colorado and beyond. It’s a flavorful celebration of smoky bites, cold brews and mountain charm. beavercreek.com
SunsetLIVE!
Avon
May 31, 2026
End your weekend on a high note. Musicians set the soundtrack as the sun sets while you kick back on your paddleboard or spread out with a picnic near the pavilion. Pack a picnic, BYOB and make it your Sunday wind-down ritual. avon.org
VAIL
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, #104, Vail chasingrabbitsvail.com
DECA+BOL
Unique restaurant featuring a menu of elevated global dishes, plus a bowling alley. 141 East Meadow Drive, #113, Vail decabolvail.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
First Chair
A welcoming bar serving affordable graband-go burritos plus craft cocktails and free chocolate chip cookies in the afternoons.
278 Hanson Ranch Rd., Unit 105, Vail 970.763.5222 firstchairvail.com
Montauk Seafood Grill
Warm, intimate restaurant and bar offering refined surf 'n' turf and an extensive wine list.
549 E. Lionshead Circle, Vail 970.476.2601 montaukvail.com
Pazzo’s Pizzeria
Local pizzeria chain serving pies, pasta and sandwiches, plus beer and wine, in a casual atmosphere.
122 E. Meadow Drive, Vail 970.476.9026 pazzospizza.com
Root & Flower
Modern bar offering craft cocktails and a curated selection of wines by the glass, plus a changing menu of New American bites.
288 Bridge St C4, Vail 970.470.4189 rootandflowervail.com
Slope Room
A sophisticated yet cozy alpine bistro serving creative dishes with local ingredients.
352 E Meadow Dr., Vail 970.476.6836 sloperoom.com
Two Arrows Coffee | Bar
Craft coffee and cocktails with fresh local provisions in the heart of Vail Village.
225 Wall St. Vail 970.763.5101 twoarrowscoffee.com
Yeti’s Grind
Awarded the "Best Coffee in Vail" for multiple years. Yeti’s serves premium craft coffee poured with love. Breakfast and lunch options, matcha, tea and custom sodas. All available quick serve style in a cozy and connected space.
141 East Meadow Drive, #108, Vail + West Vail location on North Frontage Road now open! yetisgrind.com
EAGLE-VAIL + AVON
Foods of Vail
Small food store and catering outfit offering gourmet prepared foods, plus olive oils and cheeses.
82 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., #100, Avon 970.949.0282 foodsofvail.com
Hygge Life Shop & Café
Home décor shop with a cozy craft coffee barand a collection of Scandinavian home goods, accessories and gifts. 41149 US-6, Avon 970.331.5745 hyggelife.com
Pazzo’s Pizzeria
Local pizzeria chain serving pies, pasta and sandwiches, plus beer and wine, in a casual atmosphere.
82 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., Avon 970.949.9900 pazzospizza.com
Vin48
Stylish spot for wine by the glass or bottle and creative American fare in a cozy setting with patio.
48 E. Beaver Creek Blvd., Avon 970.748.9463 vin48.com
MINTURN
Sunrise Minturn
Mountain café with local ingredients, coffee, breakfast and lunch.
132 Main St., Minturn 970.827.5353 sunriseminturn.com
EDWARDS
Craftsman Brew Co.
Modern, chef-driven sandwich and beer bar. 0105 Edwards Village Blvd., Edwards 970.855.2718 craftsmanbrewco.com
Drunken Goat
A cheese shop, wine bar and gathering place for delicious charcuterie, bruschetta, paninis, salads and soups, along with gourmet market offerings and an amazing patio.
56 Edwards Village Blvd., #104, Edwards 970.926.1393 drunkengoatco.com
Inner Light Juice
Juice bar with a mission to serve organic nourishment that provides healing and balance to body, mind, soul and planet. Coming soon to Edwards! 970.705.4188 innerlightjuice.com
Il Mago
Artisan pizza and hand-rolled pastas, along with light bites like charcuterie, burrata and oysters. A specially curated wine list features mostly Italian options along with a range of unique varietals.
56 Edwards Village Blvd. #112, Edwards @ilmagopizza
Yeti’s Grind
Awarded the "Best Coffee in Vail" for multiple years. Yeti’s serves premium craft coffee poured with love. Breakfast and lunch options, matcha, tea and custom sodas. All available quick serve style in a cozy and connected space.
105 Edwards Village Blvd., Ste, E101, Edwards yetisgrind.com
EAGLE
Inner Light Juice
Juice bar with a mission to serve organic nourishment that provides healing and balance to body, mind, soul and planet.
115 E. 2nd St., Eagle 970.705.4188 innerlightjuice.com
Pazzo’s Pizzeria
Local pizzeria chain serving pies, pasta and sandwiches, plus beer and wine, in a casual atmosphere.
50 Chambers Ave., Unit C, Eagle 970.337.9900 pazzospizza.com
Wild Sage
A healthy approach to casual dining, vegetarian and vegan friendly menu with craft cocktails, local draft beer and an amazing wine list in the heart of Eagle Ranch. 1143 Capitol St., #104A, Eagle 970.705.1689 wildsageeagle.com
Yeti’s Grind
Awarded the "Best Coffee in Vail" for multiple years. Yeti’s serves premium craft coffee poured with love. Breakfast and lunch options, matcha, tea and custom sodas. All available quick serve style in a cozy and connected space.
330 Broadway Street, # C, Eagle yetisgrind.com SCAN THIS + SIGN UP To receive emails highlighting community information + inspiration from Covered Bridge
“We’re all just walking each other home.”
Ram Dass
SEASON NO. 39
JUNE 25 - AUGUST 6, 2026
ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS • JUNE 25 - 28, 2026
