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. 

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!