Here comes the summer sun... Or is it rain?

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Finally we have had some rain up in these mountains, much awaited and we are most grateful! Things are green, blooming and beautiful all around. Plenty to do and this week's weather is back to the standard summer fare. Cooler temperatures in the mountains, high 60s to 70s, and the usual possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. 


Though the raising of fire restrictions from Stage 2 (current fire ban) to Stage 3 (limit on any and all backcountry activities) is unlikely as of right now; fire risk remains a possibility. Hikers, campers and all forest users are asked to be careful and wary as we are still in a state of drought. Fishermen and anglers are also concerned with the rising water temperatures. These can stress the fish, causing diseases; and fishing the streams exacerbates this stress. Fishermen are asked to fish early in the morning, fish higher up in the drainage and keep a constant eye on the water temperature to avoid long term negative effects. A voluntary or even mandatory fishing ban is not off the table. 


This last weekend launched the ticket sales for the next summer event series: the Vail International Dance Festival. Featuring world famous dancers and specially choreographed pieces, a performance in this series is not to be missed. With seated and lawn options for tickets, why not pack a picnic and bring a group of friends together for a cultural evening?

View a highlights video from 2011's festival in the above video. Buy tickets and view performance details here. Performance passes, including 9 lawn tickets and 9 drinks from the bar are also available!


We hope to see you at our Vail and Avon locations soon - new summer wear and sale winter wear and gear still available. Why not stock up on some half price Patagonia Capilene for this winter? 

4th of July week in Vail

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


With 4th of July falling midweek this year, what better time to take a full week to enjoy the life our mountains have to offer. Escape the city heat (somewhat) and come up to Vail for some summer fun.


Due to the extremely dry conditions and fire bans, both Vail and Avon fireworks events have been cancelled. I am sure we can all understand why with wildfires raging around the state! More info on fire restrictions can be seen in the release from the Forest Service here.


There is still plenty to celebrate on the 4th of July in the mountains. The Vail America Days parade starts at Golden Peak at 10am, moves through the village and concludes in Lionshead at about noon. Always fun to watch, it is the region's largest Independence Day parade and promises entertaining floats/acts such as the Lawn Chair Drill Team. Avon's celebrations in Nottingham Park are also still on, barring the fireworks of course. Starting at 5pm, free concerts, beer garden, paddle-boarding and kids activities promise to make it a memorable 4th. 


Tomorrow's (Tuesday's) Hot Summer Night concert features Martin Sexton, a soulful guitarist with an acoustic style. Get a taster of what to expect from him below. These concerts are free and hosted at the Gerald Ford Amphitheatre at 6.30pm. 

As for the Bag and Pack Shop, we plan to celebrate the 4th in style - by holding a sale for all you wonderful folks. 20% off storewide (on non discounted merchandise only) on the 3rd and 4th of July. Come and get it!


Mountain bike fans, fond of flying down steep drops, over rocky outcrops and off breathtaking jumps; will be glad to hear of the opening of Radio Flyer, a new trail on the western side of the mountain. Not quite as intimidating as the original of the same name, the trail boasts a thrilling ride for the intermediate downhill rider. Built in partnership with the Forest Service and IMBA, Radio Flyer is constructed using techniques that allow water to run off the trail itself, so it lasts longer and helps prevent severe erosion. I know we are gearing up to try it out!


Finally, make sure not to miss the Bravo concert this Sunday, part of the Vail Valley Music Festival series. "A fusion of two art forms", it pairs the fabulous talents of the Philadelphia Orchestra with a team of aerial flyers, acrobats, dancers and more in a show called Cirque de la Symphonie. Whether you prebook amphitheater seats (probably a good idea for this one!) or picnic on the lawn; this will be an unforgettable event. Tickets and info are available online. 

This week's action in Vail

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


The last week of June this year is prime for summer activities. Who could believe that last year this time we still had snow falling up here in Vail? 

The Gore Range has myriads of hikes to offer. The Missouri Lakes-Fancy pass loop off Homestake Road is great for some historic background, gorgeous views and a full day adventure. Alternatively, Lake Constantine in the Holy Cross wilderness is great if wildflowers and some mid-afternoon fishing are what your're after. No matter your adventure, a great accessory to throw into your pack is one of Grand Trunk's hammocks.  Lightweight and packable, you will be the envy of all when you arrive at your alpine lake or flowery meadow and park off for a nap in one of these babies. 


For those planning on some camping adventures to enjoy the late daylight of summer, make sure to heed fire bans across Colorado and many US states. Extremely hot weather and lack of rain have made conditions dry and dangerous. Time to crack out your Jetboil or enjoy packed, cold lunches - there won't be any roasted brats in the wilderness for a while! Further info on fire restrictions in Eagle County here.


Make sure to enjoy the many markets our region has to offer. On Saturday morning, visit the Edwards Farmer's Market on Edwards Corner for some delicious breakfast choices from local food vendors. Browse the fresh produce and local craftmanship, before heading to Minturn Market for a snack and a more artsy themed market. Both running from 9.30am until lunchtime, these markets will make for a fun diversion. 


But, Sunday belongs to Vail's famous Farmer's Market. Offering selections of produce from all over the state, you can stock up on cherries, spinach, snap peas, peaches and more. Why not ride your bike into town (make sure to lock it somewhere before entering the market area as it tends to crowd up quick!) or walk the dog in (leashes are a MUST) and spend a leisurely time sampling goods from divine avocado salad dressing to Hawaiian wafer snacks. Not to be missed are Maggie's "Magpies" fresh pies (out of this world) and Kirby Cosmo's whole turkey leg - you have to see it to believe it!


Plenty to choose from in Vail this summer... make sure you are part of it. 

Summertime sunshine in the mountains

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


This month in Vail is full of activities to enjoy with your family or solo.
Appreciate a relaxed lawn picnic while listening to beautiful classical music at the Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival. Kicking off with a free concert on opening night 25 June at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater, this year's lineup promises to be as entertaining as ever, with orchestras from New York, Dallas and Philadelphia among the performers.  See the full concert schedule and buy tickets here.


The Vail Gondola will be running daily from June 15 to September 3, so take a ride to play some disc golf, enjoy the view of Holy Cross and Game Creek Bowl, hike out to Ptarmigan Point or simply picnic on one of the many available decks. Adults pay $24 and children under 12 only pay $5! If you want to take up your bike too and enjoy one of the many downhill trails, bike hauls on the gondola cost $15 for adults and $5 for kids, additional with a lift ticket.


Adventure Ridge at the top of Eagle's Nest offers a range of fun activities as well. Take a motor tour of the mountain, or a scenic horseback trail ride into Game Creek Bowl. Kids can enjoy the climbing wall and the bungee trampoline that lets them reach new heights!


The evening of Wednesday June 20th sees the Davos Dash mountain bike race up to the Radio Tower in West Vail. For those intrigued, there are all sorts of categories for racers, from Masters to Never Evers; and you could always grab a cowbell and give the hard working bikers some support! Race info and registration here. 


We hope many of you tried your hand (and feet) at the Summer Solstice Run this past weekend. There is quite a break until the next race in the La Sportiva Trail Running Series but that just means ample time to train for the upcoming Vail Hill Climb, Vail Half Marathon and the Berry Picker Trail Run. For anyone visiting the valley and planning to do these fun events, make sure to give yourself a few days to acclimate to the altitude by doing some gentle runs once you arrive. 

Kicking back in Vail this weekend

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Nothing like heading into the beautiful mountains on a Friday afternoon. Come up and spend this weekend with us in paradise!


Golf enthusiasts can catch a twilight round of golf at the Vail Golf Club after 3.30pm, only $42 with a cart until June 28. Book a tee time at 970 479 2260.


Most stores in the Village and Lionshead are open until 7pm, browse around for leftover winter deals and gorgeous new summer arrivals, before heading out to dinner. 

Rise with the sun on Saturday June 16th to get awake and limbered up for the Summer Solstice Trail Run, the second in the La Sportiva Trail Running Series. With a 10.30am start in Beaver Creek, a 10km and 5km option; there really is no excuse to not get out there and participate! Entries are $35 if you pre register and $45 if you wait till race day to see how you feel. More info here.


Following your active morning, pack a picnic and drive back up Vail Pass, taking exit 190 to the rest area. Follow the dirt Shrine Pass Road (no high clearance required) for about 4 miles to the Holy Cross Overlook Deck - just a short walk from the parking lot. 


Following a much needed afternoon nap, take a twilight ride up on the gondola (only $20 for adults and $5 for kids under 12) after 4pm and play a round of disc golf. 18 holes with 9 beginner and 9 advanced, play is free with your own discs, or you can rent a set for $10. 


Saturday evenings in Vail usually comprise an evening stroll to find the best place for dinner. With a sunset time after 8.30pm, there is no better time to enjoy the alpenglow on the Gore Range either before or after dinner. Many award-winning restaurants in Vail or Lionshead can tempt you with their offerings - La Tour for locally grown, fresh produce; Sweet Basil for contemporary American fare; the famous Matsuhisa in Solaris is great for seafood and sushi, choices are vast and everyone has their favorite. 


Start your Sunday morning off with a bottomless mimosa at La Tour's brunch, served from 10am to 2pm. The wiser ones will enjoy an outdoor hike or run up Vail Mountain before settling in for a morning (and perhaps afternoon!) of eating and drinking in La Tour's sunny outside area. 


Enjoy your week and hope to see you this weekend at our Vail or Avon locations!

What to do, what to do

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


The mountains have completely dried out and are beautifully green already. Many rejoice at this early summer, though it does bode ill for river rafters with the low water levels caused by smaller runoff from snow melt. However, there are plenty of other activities to sink your teeth into this summer!

Hiking

With most trails being completely clear, pack a lunch, fill up your water bottle and enjoy one of the scenic hikes the valley has to offer. Some trails in West Vail are closed for maintenance until 15 June, so make sure to check posted signs. But, the  East Vail selections are good to go.  

Bighorn Trail starts off steep but flattens out to a gentle rolly trail until the final push to the rustic cabin at the top. Booth Lake Trail is ever popular and tends to be quite busy on the weekends, roughly an hour and a half to the falls and another 2 hours or so to Booth Lake, well worth the climb for the quiet peacefulness. Pitkin Creek Trail follows the creek and is pretty deceptive, 3 hours or more to reach the lake and it's not too easy! A great trail to do if you are not sure how long to go for is Gore Creek Trail, right at the end of East Vail. Following Gore Creek and with gentle climbs, it's a great choice for an afternoon walk. Stop by at either our Vail or Avon locations for more suggestions or to pick up the Vail Hiker (available @bagandpack), a great book to own if you plan on exploring the valley and surrounds. 

Biking

The front side of Vail Mountain is open and ready to bike up and down.  Start a sunset ride around 5pm for a quiet, cool ride down before heading out for dinner to one of the lovely local restaurants. Two good options to bike up - The Village Trail road is longer but a little easier on the legs, while Gitalong Road is shorter in distance but has some steeper climbs. The gondola opens this weekend too if you are feeling more sedentary! For the downhill, a variety of fun trails are available, from the popular Lion Down which has singletrack in it, to the trickier Hank's Hideaway through the trees.  The 2011 Vail Mountain Summer Map can be seen here. Vail promises to release the 2012 version soon as some new trails have been added. 

Running

Any of the hiking trails mentioned can be easily used by trail runners. Early mornings are particularly beautiful. If heading to East Vail, plan on starting your run 7/ 7.30am as it tends to get warm a little later than sunrise down there! For those fitness gurus out there, run the Berrypicker hiking trail up the front of the mountain to get ready for the race held later this summer. The bike trail in East Vail, the section through the golf course, is another good option for runners or dog walkers. Run from the Pitkin Creek market and join up with the Vail Trail (heads uphill into the trees just before the Golf Clubhouse) which will come out at Golden Peak, if you want a longer run. 

Enjoy these fresh summer days and come check out our new summer arrivals from Patagonia, Arcteryx, Millet, Horny Toad and Prana for men and ladies!

Welcome back to the mountains

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


For those lucky ones that have been travelling all over this shelter season, welcome back to the mountains. Plenty to see and do in Vail this summer, stay posted to our blog, Twitter @bagandpack and Facebook page for the latest tips and inspirations for summer adventures.


The countdown for the annual Summer Teva Games in Vail is down to the final wire. Running May 31 and June 3, this event promises to be as action packed as ever. Riding on the success of the first Winter Teva Games ever, held in Vail this past February; the weekend looks like it holds good weather and exciting stunts. From Dock Dogs to Kayak Freestyle, Citizen's Bouldering to the inaugural Rocky Dog Trail Run with your pooch; the Summer Games are great fun to watch or participate in. For more events and to scoop up last minute entries, see the schedule here.

See a highlights video with a performance by Xavier Rudd for the 2011 Teva Games here and get amped for your own experience! 

While you are out browsing all the tents from the brands we love that are sure to be keeping Vail Village entertained; stop by and see new summer arrivals and perhaps some leftover deals from winter weather at our Vail location opposite the Solaris and right next to Pazzo's Pizza. 

Dream summer gear essentials - Part 3

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Our final list of favorites for this summer's activities. 


Multi-purpose tent


Many of our readers are tried and true backpackers, while some have dabbled in a car camping adventure or two. Still others may do both, depending on location and conditions. If there is one thing you need, especially if you only want to own one tent at first; is one that is lightweight yet sturdy, non-bulky yet roomy; and it would help if it didn't break the bank! Especially for outdoor enthusiasts just starting out.

The Mountain Hardwear Drifter 3 is all of that. Fitting two people with all packs and gear inside, maybe even a dog, this tent is the perfect size for an overnight or a few. While weighing in at 6 pounds packed weight, if you leave the rain fly (for warm, dry campsites), it becomes a breeze to carry. Packing neatly and easily into its travel sac, it makes it easy to throw in the car or strap to a pack. Durable, waterproof fabrics make it a worthwhile investment. And at half the price of the only slightly lighter superlight range of tents, it is quite a bargain too!




Re-wearable hiking shirt


Key to making camping enjoyable is to ensure you have JUST the right amount of stuff. Packing light avoids excess effort and sweat getting your gear to your site, whether it is carrying it up the mountain on your back, or loading from the car into your tent. However, forgetting a vital item of clothing is no fun either. Repeat wearing is the answer and we are totally sold on the benefits of merino wool.


Good for socks, shirts and other layers; Icebreaker won't retain odour and stays cool and lightweight no matter the weather as it wicks moisture away from you and dries super fast. We love the Icebreaker Tech T Lite - you can wear it on the hike in, allow it to air-dry overnight and have a brand new shirt for the next day's schedule!




Around camp shoes


Once you are set up at camp, there is nothing as pleasant as peeling off sweaty hiking boots and feeling the warm grass under your toes. Most of the time, walking around barefoot is not the best option - especially for those of us who love exploring, doing a spot of fishing or even a meandering walk out in the wilderness. Cue for comfortable, laze around camp shoes. 


Any flip flops would really do the trick, they pack small and can even be strapped on the back of your pack if you are out of room. For their great arch support, casual feel and durable nature; we love the Chaco Z1 Unaweep Sandals. On very warm trips, you can even hike in these and they are great for stepping in and out of a lake or stream. Available for men and ladies, this basic version has no toe strap and is easy to customize for a perfect fit for your feet. 



For more suggestions for your summer gear pile, or to tell us your favorites, stop by the Avon or Vail store this season!

Dream summer gear essentials - Part 2

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Continuing with our theme from last week's post, here are a few more bits and pieces that are vital to having a great summer. We think so anyway. 


Lightweight camp cooking system


Most of use enjoy a mixture of car camping and backpacking adventures. Carrying your home on your back, versus piling it into your Subaru are vastly different and require different considerations in packing lists. 


A simple camp stove system is a worthwhile piece of inventory for both. Whether it's simply boiling water for tea after your (car-supplied) grill out yields a delicious feast; or as a vital tool to cook backpacking meals on your 3 day 'pack ultralight' hike into the Rockies; having this item makes camping meals easy and fun. 


The Jetboil Flash System is our go-to. Great for one or two people on its own, and giving you the option to add to your collection with its variety of accessories such as pans and jumbo cups; it comes in funky colours too. The fuel canisters are clean burning and come with a handy 'crunch tool' you can use to drain the gas remnants to make for easier recycling. 






Down sweater


We return to our love affair with down. Packable, light and super warm, it's a great piece for sitting around the campfire as the temperatures cool off. Or even for heading out for the newspaper on chilly mountain mornings. Fitting easily into your pack and released in a variety of dreamy colours every season, the Patagonia Down Sweater has even been called the "uniform" of the mountains. You are almost obligated to have one. 




Thin beanie


Hazy summer afternoons, tan lines and gorgeous sunsets; summers are what visions are made of. Who would think you need to keep your head WARM, right? Yet, chilly early morning hikes and crazy bed hair are a part of camping too. And, for that we recommend the Icebreaker Chase Beanie. Thin merino wool gives it a lightweight breathable property so it will keep you warm when it is just a little too breezy. Merino wool also doesn't retain odour, boding well for multi-day, multi-week or even multi-month trips. 






We know we are definitely getting pumped for some summer trips right now - got to use all this new gear sometime! Next week's post will feature our final installment of summer gear essentials to dream about. 

Dream summer gear essentials - Part 1

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


We continue to get you ready for the upcoming summer season - though with this year's warm weather, many adventures have already been adventured we are sure! If you are considering spending time in the magical outdoors this summer, take a look at this personal inventory well worth investing in. 


Paclite Rain Shell


Paclite Gore-Tex is the lightest and most pack-able form of this waterproof and breathable membrane,. Hence the name! Stuffing down into a little ball in the bottom of your pack, you won't even notice it, until you are caught in that sudden mountain rainstorm mid-trip that is. With a lifetime guarantee as well, it's well worth it. 


We love the Arcteryx Beta SL with its redesigned slim fit and Storm collar, it is the perfect emergency waterproofing you need. Whether it is to keep hiking to the next camp spot, or just getting the dog walked; don't forget to have a reliable rain shell ready. Available in a variety of fun as well neutral colours for men and ladies, the Beta SL is a wonderful multi-use piece. 




High-top waterproof hiking boots


Whether you choose Gore-Tex or some other form of waterproofing such as BDry, if you want to hike all season, you need to be prepared for muddy puddles, wet grass and the odd river crossing. Some may get aggravated by the high-top boot, but with the many options available today, from a 'lower' high-top to the full on mountain boot; it really is worth looking at for the added support. Any trip with more than a day's hiking is going to be hard on your ankles, and carrying a loaded pack can be tough on the joints. By no means a foolproof solution to a rolled ankle, high-top boots can definitely help. 


One of our favorites for an any-hike boot is the Oboz Sawtooth Mid, in Mens and Ladies. Oboz is renowned for being a 'no break-in' shoe and the BDry keeps your feet, well, dry; while the ventilation on top of the shoe ensures your feet don't self-combust on those desert hikes. 


Ultralight down sleeping bag


Down sleeping bags are great for their lightweight, packable warmth on the go. Down breathes really well too so if you invest in a bag for slightly cooler camp spots, you can usually use it for most all of your trips. As long as you are planning on sleeping under some sort of shelter (or somewhere cold, yet dry), down is the best option. Carrying it is easy and it doesn't take up a lot of room in your pack. 


Go for the highest quality down in your budget, as it will cut down further on weight and packable size, ensuring you use it more. We love the Mont Bell Ultralight Down Hugger with 800 fill down. Cozy, comfy and light, this bag will be your best friend on many a camp trip in the mountains. Choose a bag based on the temperature you think you will need - ladies, we usually run cooler so add 10 degrees to be safe!


So that's the start of our dream gear wishlist. Next week, see what else we love, and want you to love too!

Medical kit - a vital part of any summer adventure

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


As we get ready for the summer adventures in the months ahead, make sure to remember to cover all bases. Most of us are pretty clued up on the gear we love in the backcountry for all our fun pursuits, be it a comfortable pack, sturdy pair of hike boots, reliable carabiners or a versatile long sleeve layer. One thing often overlooked is a good assortment of emergency medical supplies. From a simple band aid to the highly undesirable splint, a few things can allow you to rest easy if anything does go wrong. No excuse for being careless and taking risks, these medical kits do offer a variety of emergency solutions to get you back home in one piece. 

Helenbac Expedition First Aid Kits

Coming in three sizes - Explorer, Camp Daddy and Base Camp, these kits can be thrown into your pack or car and forgotten about. Until you or your friends/family need them, of course!


If you (or your wallet) would prefer to come up with your own emergency kit; by all means, just make sure to include these basic items we think are vital. 

Band aids - who hasn't gotten a scraped knee or sliced open finger while camping?


Ibuprofen -  for inflammation and severe headaches


Antiseptic ointment - keeping minor cuts clean ensures they heal quickly and painlessly


Bandage - With larger scrapes, the possibilities are vast


Temporary splint eg. Sam Splint - from rolled ankles to an emergency cervical collar for neck injuries, this small moldable item can be used in a variety of situations


Burn cream - anyone who has ever picked up a still-hot grill or stove pan can attest to this one!


There are many other items you can include in your kit, depending on how much you are willing to carry/pack. With car camping, there really is no excuse to not have many First Aid essentials with you, especially if you are going to be away from nearby towns/stores. 


Whether it is a ready-packed kit you want, or ideas for what to include in your own, or even more things you think we forgot - let us know!

Where are you going this spring?

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Big Bend National Park, Texas


According to Outdoor Magazine, this is the perfect trip for rafting enthusiasts who don't like the cold. Warm Texas weather, spring wildflowers and the high limestone walls of Santa Elena Canyon make this a great option for a short spring getaway.

Rafting the Rio Grande

The majestic Big Bend National Park, Texas

Rock and Roll Marathon, Portland, Oregon


This series of races is known for lining the routes of the half and full marathon options with local bands, cheering fans and themed water stations. 20 May 2012 sees Portland hosting its first race, a half marathon along 13.1 miles of its most scenic landscapes. A reason to visit this fun city, more info on this event can be found here. Register today and brush up on some long distance!


Mountain bike the White Rim Trail, Utah


A 100 mile epic trail looping around the Island in the Sky mesa in the Canyonlands National Park, this 3 to 4 day adventure is slightly less crowded than closer Moab's mountain bike paradise. A challenging ride, this trip recommends a full suspension bike and a high clearance support vehicle. Campsites need to be booked in advance and a $30 backcountry permit will be needed. You can also join an organized tour with Holiday River Expeditions who will provide all your food and crew for you, leaving you free to enjoy the majestic views, worry-free.

White Rim trail mountain bike tour

A support vehicle is needed to carry food, water and tent supplies

What adventures do you have planned this spring? Make us jealous!

Looking forward to off season?

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


For those excitedly planning their mud season activities, we salute you! What a great time to take a trip. We sure are spoiled, to have only a few weeks in each year where we would consider leaving this beautiful valley in the Colorado mountains. Sandwiched between a sunny spring ski season and a gorgeous green summer, May is perfect to recruit some friends, grab the dog or even take a solo adventure. Whether you are planning a mammoth overseas trip or a short weekend getaway; there is some travel gear we could never do without...

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

The 3 varying sizes allow you to choose the perfect one for your trip. We love these bags from Patagonia for their bright eye-catching tones (though black is available too!) and easy packability. A traditional duffel but with tough backpack straps so you can carry it if needed; plus tons of strap attachments on the exterior for hardcore adventurers with equipment to handle. This tough and durable bag will see you through many a day - made of waterproof fabric, but not seam taped; it will keep your stuff dry in most conditions.

Eagle Creek Packing Solutions

Ever feel reluctant to sign onto a trip, because you "you just don't feel like packing"? We sure hope not! But, these ingenious inventions from Eagle Creek will make that possibility zero. Varying in size and type, these bags will let you compartmentalize your bag, pack hang-only items and live out of your bag with some semblance of organization.

Millet Tshoki Jacket

Travel is always full of unpredicable weather situations.  A thin jacket to cut the wind and keep off the chill should be in every traveler's repertoire. This one from Millet is highly breathable yet water resistant and is a great one to throw in your bag.

Arcteryx Rampart Pants

The ideal long bottom layer, whether you are hiking in the Amazon or city-slicking in San Francisco; these pants from Arcteryx are lightweight and oh so comfortable. Get them in a shorts option too, but we just love the long ones to throw on in the evening, once the sun goes down. Available in mens and ladies.

Icebreaker Long Sleeve Tech Scoop

We just cannot mention enough how much we love Icebreaker clothing, it is unbeatable both for travel and sport. Lightweight and breathable, it wicks moisture away and remains odour free for days on end - perfect for a vacation away from home where packing room is limited. This long sleeve piece of 150-weight is great to throw in your bag year round. And it comes in funky colours too.

We wish you well on whatever adventures you have planned this off season and hope you stop by to share your exciting travel plans.

Shorter winter, just means a longer summer!

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Those complaining about the awful snow this year can rest easy. Plenty still to do in the mountains. The past few weeks have seen more and more people biking; and with both the Vail Pass bike path and the stretch through the golf course open, the choices are expanding.


Most hiking trails will be closed at some stage for maintenance during the spring runoff season, so obey any posted closure dates. However, with the early melt, there are a few ready now and you can catch them in the window before maintenance starts; if you don't mind a little mud of course!


Gore Creek Trail is pretty dry, we ran about 30min up and not a lick of snow on the trail itself. 

The loop through the campground is all done for the year, melted snow means no way to get over the creek and wandering around near there is no fun - learn from our mistake and stick to the trail!














Another great one is the Booth Creek Trail - we got all the way up to the falls and you could keep going. Most of the trail is dry and clear, with a few muddy parts.

Parts of the trail are completely snow covered so watch your step. Though more-or-less packed down, a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes wouldn't hurt.

Further down valley in Eagle, there are tons more trail choices; and with the warmer weather down valley, they may be even more clear. Check out Trails.com recommendations here.


Welcome to spring everyone. Feel free to stop by in our Vail or Avon locations for suggestions, trail updates and footwear/gear advice. Happy hiking!

April update

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado

The end of the Vail ski season is looming, get ready for all the festivities it has to offer! The ski season here ends Sunday April 15 and that weekend is packed with Spring Back to Vail celebrations. 

 

Check out either the Ford Park venues (Thursday and Friday evenings) or the plaza outside Solaris in the village (Saturday and Sunday evenings) for the free concerts, nothing like some outdoor tunes after a warm day's skiing! Check out more information on the bands playing here.

The World Pond Skimming Competition is back once more and happening at the base of the Golden Peak ski area. Skiiers and snowboarders launch of a ramp into a pool of water and try to 'skim' to the other side. Often wearing crazy outfits, it is always a good laugh; and, we hate to say it, but especially for the ones who don't quite make it! 

Check out some pictures from last year's event:

If this looks like something you want to add to your bucket list - entries are $75 each and are on a first come first served basis. Online registration


If you haven't quite got your fill of skiing this year, Breckenridge has 
extended its ski season for two more weekends. So be ready to surf some spring melt on April 20-22 and April 27-29. Main Street should be glorious and who knows, even the spring bulbs may be out!



For those keen beans, eager to start their summer early, many of the trails around Vail are hikeable, to a point. We have done North Trail - muddy and slick on the lower slopes, clear and pleasant as you switchback further up; and Booth Falls recently. Booth Falls in East Vail is our summer favorite due to its rolly terrain and beautiful views. It is very dry as you start out, then some frozen mud patches (we went early, this may turn to slush later in the day) and you do start hitting snow a way before the actual falls. A great hike to do with some Kahtoola Microspikes!

Whether you are skiing or hiking or starting summer running training early, Vail is beautiful right now. The Bag and Pack is slowly getting in our exciting summer gear, stop by for a peek. Happy Spring everyone!

An early spring weekend in Vail

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


With all the lamentations about the lack of snow this spring break, we thought we would review how fun a weekend in Vail, Colorado can be - plenty to see and do!


Start off your weekend by grabbing a lane at Bol, the upscale bowling alley right in the heart of the village. Drop the kids (or disinterested associates!) at the Solaris ice rink right outside for a lap or two, while you sample some of the fine mixed cocktails the barman has to offer. We love Pamm's Cup with all its syrupy goodness. Gather your crew and head to the bowling alleys in the back. Open from 2pm onwards and at $50 an hour per lane, you can have your food and drinks served as you bowl up a storm. 

Now we are of the opinion that the skiing is still enjoyable, we may not be chest deep in powder and grabbing face shots all day; but sometimes a sunny Saturday spent skiing soft spring snow is all you really need. So bring out those lightweight layers and coats (see our previous post for suggestions) and enjoy Vail's end of season lift ticket specials. 


Vail Lift Ticket Prices Mar 7 - Apr 8

After a day out in the sun and the subsequent nap, nothing beats an ice cold beverage, alcoholic or otherwise, and a delicious meal. While the evening away sampling the creations of the master chefs at Yama Sushi, Vail's newest sushi restaurant. Make sure to try the Black Widow Roll, if not for the scrumptious taste, for the exciting preparation - the topping of tuna is fire torched just before serving. Check out their menu for some more prime selections. Yama Sushi Menu


As a child, there was nothing I enjoyed more than a buffet. In fact, it is still the best part about being on vacation. All you can eat pastries, made to order omelets and bottomless fresh juices; who could ask for more? Enjoy your well earned tradition at Ludwig's Restaurant in the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail Village.
 
 Served from 7am to Noon on a Sunday, end off your weekend with an air of contentment as you stroll off your stuffed stomach around town, enjoying the end of season sales. And who knows, maybe even supporting some local businesses! We hope to see you this weekend...

Essentials for spring skiing fun

Marina Egorov – The Bag and Pack Shop, Vail, Colorado


Spring is here and that means a slight change to your regular skiing attire. Warmer weather, combined with wet snow and sunny skies require just the right setup to keep you skiing right up to the mountain’s closing day.


Something we have been getting more and more requests for and that should be your first port of call; is a spring ski shell. Whether it is a waterproof Gore-Tex piece you layer up under the rest of the year, or a lightweight softshell that cuts the wind and keeps you cool; springtime skiing is a breeze with lighter gear. Here are some of our favourites that are highly breathable and versatile for the rest of the year too.


1. Arcteryx Acto MX Jacket
An extremely light hard fleece that cuts the wind and has a moisture wicking insulating layer.
Arcteryx Acto

2. Millet Kitchana Windstopper Hoody

Fully windproof and highly breathable, this jacket doubles as a cycling or city piece in the summer.

Millet Kitchana

3. Patagonia Simple Guide Jacket

Boasting pack ability, durability and wear ability, from the city streets to the sunny ski hill.

Patagonia Simple Guide

With temperatures rising as the day goes by; sweaty, clammy hands can ruin a ski day fast. Some glove choices to replace the beefy winter mitts you love...

1. Hestra Ski Cross 

Complete with funky spring colours, these gloves are soft, supple and just warm enough.

Hestra Ski Cross

2. Black Diamond Arc Gloves

Extremely breathable and lightweight, while being fully waterproof; the Arcs double as a ski touring glove year round when it’s too cold to use them on the hill.

Black Diamond Arc

3. Outdoor Research Crave Gloves

Waterproof leather and a soft feel gives these gloves a sleek under the cuff look.

Outdoor Research Crave

You want to be warm yet comfortable; both while riding on the chair lift, and whizzing down a freshly groomed Riva or carving through soft corn snow in the Back Bowls. Make sure to choose a thin, moisture wicking first layer to insulate your core.

1. Icebreaker 200 Oasis Crew

A tight fitting merino wool base layer will keep you well ventilated and chanting the Icebreaker motto of ‘Think Don’t Stink’ as you enjoy day after day of odour free wear.

Icebreaker Oasis

2. Mountain Hardwear Butter Line for Men and Women

Super soft and comfy against the skin, the Butter series has moisture wicking properties as well as UPF sun protection for multiple uses year round.

Mountain Hardwear Butterman

3. Patagonia Capilene Level 2 Layers

Thin yet warm, stretchy yet durable, Patagonia Capilene is the original performance baselayer. Level 2 (lightweight) is perfect for this time of the year.

Patagonia Capilene 2

Just some of our favourites here at the Bag and Pack – stop by at our Avon or Vail store to check our stocks and for any further suggestions to help you enjoy the rest of the ski season!