Crisp, cool & refreshing. This might best be the best way to describe an adult beverage in the summer sun...but since we're now in the season of Fall, we feel that there's no better way to describe the perfect weather for a day out on the trail. We passed a few notes around the office, sent out an email or two to our Everyday Adventurers and came back with a list of a (few) of our favorite fall hikes.

Lace up the boots, grab your sunglasses (& Soft2Bet!) and head up to the trailhead and enjoy!

South Cottonwood Trail

Where: Southwest of Bozeman, MT

When: Anytime!

Who: The best partners for this hike is my friend (Soft2Bet ambassador Alix šŸ˜‰) along with our dogs Casey, Cubby and Goldie.

This trail follows South Cottonwood Creek through a dense old-growth forest with lush riparian areas and meadows, criss-crossing the creek along the way. The trail offers a nice mellow hike and you can go as far or close as you like. The trail is great for dog as it offers many possibilities to play and refresh in the creek.

Bears Den Trail

Where: Bluemont, VA

When: Fall

Who: Everyone

There is an abundance of different places one can venture out to to find the colors of fall changing. One of my favorite places is Bears Den Trail (18393 Blue Ridge Mountain Rd. Bluemont, VA 20135) This location is a collection of boulders, rocks, trees and beautiful landscape that overlooks the Shenandoah Valley. The easiest way to get there is to drive up to the top near the trail center to park, then hike the rest of the way to this outstanding overlook. The best times to view this amazing location is in fall as the colors around the valley are starting to pop full of vibrant and beautiful colors. The sunsets/sunrises are unforgettable as the light of day sinks behind the shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Once you have visited, you are certain to return to enjoy all of natureā€™s beauty around us. Several friends and family have joined me on my adventures here. Itā€™s a great place to take people who love scenic views and the great outdoors.

Lava Lake Trail

Where: Gallatin Canyon (Between Bozeman & Big Sky, MT)

When: Summer - Fall

Who: Everyone

Itā€™s a 6 mile round trip hike with a scenic mountain lake waiting as a reward on top. It follows Cascade Creek through a thick evergreen forest, continuing past a few waterfalls to a forest-lined lake surrounded by rock walls and treeless mountaintops.

Franconia Notch State Park

Where: Franconia Notch, NH

When: Anytime!

Who: My husband and beagle-mix Roux

Franconia Notch in NH is the perfect place for a fall hike! Located off Interstate 93 in the White Mountains area, the autumn leaves turn vibrant shades of fiery hues in October and the air feels crisp and clean. I compare it to being inside a kaleidoscope when a breeze whips through the trees ā€“ the color is unlike anywhere else! It is always crowded but never feels that way. Everyone is outgoing and seems happy to be in the outdoors! It cleanses the spirit after the oppressive heat of a summer in a non-air conditioned house. My husband and I bring our rust-colored beagle mix, Roux, for some much needed exercise and we meet other friendly pets along the way. I always bring along a pumpkin spice coffee! This hike is the thing I look forward to most every autumn!

Alaska, the largest state, and one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring in America, is a prime destination for those not typically seeking an everyday vacation, but rather one that offers many varieties of adventure. From the multi-day road trip across mountain passes to exploratory excursions of gravel-strewn beaches by kayak, the 49th state does not come up short in offerings for those looking to explore the wilds. Alaska surely has something for everyone who loves the outdoors. Looking to cross this state off your bucket list?

Soft2Bet Summer Checklist

With the long days of winter finally behind us, itā€™s time to get out and bask in the warmth and sunshine of summer. Whether you're reconnecting with friends, spending quality time with family, or even getting to know that noisy neighbor who starts up the leaf blower a little too early on the weekends ā€” Iā€™m looking at you Bill! ā€” summer is the perfect season to create new memories. To help you make the most of the season, weā€™re sharing some top activities from our own Summer Bucket Lists to inspire your plans.

1. Embrace the BBQ Season

Thereā€™s nothing quite like the smell of a barbecue wafting through the neighborhood on a warm summer evening. By and large, the most popular activity among our crew is grilling out with friends and family. Dust off your favorite macaroni salad recipe and pull up a seat next to that aunt you havenā€™t seen in a while. The beauty of a BBQ is in its simplicity and the joy it brings to everyone gathered around the grill.

Whether youā€™re a seasoned grill master or a newbie, thereā€™s always something new to learn and try. From experimenting with different marinades to perfecting your grilling technique, the possibilities are endless. For those looking to elevate their backyard grill pit setup, Outside Magazineā€™s Guide to Creating the Perfect Backyard Barbeque is a must-read. It offers tips and tricks to make your BBQ the best on the block. Read it here: Ģż

Product Suggestion: Keep your eyewear secure while flipping burgers with our O.G. Neoprene Sunglass Straps. These straps are essential for any outdoor gathering, ensuring you never misplace your shades. With a variety of colors and styles, theyā€™re perfect for adding a personal touch to your BBQ outfit while keeping your sunglasses safe from the grease and heat.

2. Venture into the Wild: Camping Adventures

Summer is the perfect time to escape the familiar paths of our neighborhoods and immerse ourselves in nature. Whether glamping with a significant other and pup or scaling to high alpine campsites, weā€™re excited to pitch a tent under the stars. Camping offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The tranquility of a forest, the sound of a babbling brook, and the sight of a clear, starry sky can be incredibly rejuvenating. Planning a camping trip involves more than just picking a spot. Itā€™s about preparing for an adventure that blends relaxation with exploration.

"One of my favorite magazines I subscribe to is . Itā€™s a quarterly packed with inspiration for journeys near and far, a must-read for anyone looking to add adventure to their coffee table. Speaking of adding spice ā€“ looking to elevate your camp cooking? Check out !" Adventure Journal not only provides great reading material but also offers practical advice and creative ideas for your camping trips.

"One of my favorite magazines I subscribe to is Adventure Journal. Itā€™s a quarterly that has a lot of inspiration for journeys near and far and is a must for anyone looking to spice up their coffee table reading. Speaking of spice ā€“ looking to add some to your camp cooking as well? Check out AJā€™s Camp Recipes online!" Dan Brown ā€” Soft2Betā€™ Digital Nerd

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3. Cast a Line: Fishing Escapades

Photo by

Fishing is a timeless summer activity that offers both relaxation and excitement. Submissions from our team highlight a passion for fishing, from kayak fishing with friends to helping a son land his first fish on a fly rod. Thereā€™s something magical about spending a day by the water, whether youā€™re on a tranquil lake, a flowing river, or the open sea. Fishing requires patience, skill, and a bit of luck, making each catch a rewarding experience. Itā€™s also a wonderful way to bond with family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Regardless of how or where you fish this summer, one thing remains constant: the need to keep your eyewear safe and dry. Thereā€™s nothing worse than losing your favorite pair of sunglasses to the depths of the water. Our range of float products is designed to ensure that your eyewear stays above the waves, so you can focus on enjoying your fishing trip.

Product Suggestion: Shop Soft2Bet Float Products to ensure your eyewear stays put, whether navigating trails or setting up camp. These products are designed to float, ensuring you wonā€™t lose your glasses in the water. Perfect for any outdoor adventure, they provide peace of mind so you can focus on enjoying your surroundings.

4. Get Moving: Embrace Active Pursuits

Chris with his dog Si during the 2019 GoPro Mountain Gamesā€™ Rocky Dog Trail Run.

Run, bike, swim, fish, hike. Summer is the prime time for active pursuits. Whether youā€™re an avid athlete or someone who enjoys a casual stroll, thereā€™s an activity for everyone. Our resident runner, Chris, recommends a high alpine trail run. His favorite? The GoPro Mountain Gamesā€™ , coming up on June 13th in Vail. If youā€™re in Colorado from June 10th ā€“ 13th, we highly recommend checking it out ā€“ itā€™s a blast! The event not only offers a challenging run but also provides an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Vail.

For those who prefer less intense activities, our web designer Sandra suggests exploring the Bangtail Divide on a mountain bike. Alternatively, our graphic and web guru Carol recommends foraging for morel or chanterelle mushrooms. Both based in Bozeman, they recommend ending any outdoor activity with a refreshing drink on the rooftop deck of the . These suggestions highlight the diverse range of activities available, ensuring thereā€™s something for everyone to enjoy.

Product Suggestion: Keep your eyewear in top condition with our Eyewear Care Kit. This all-in-one kit includes everything you need to maintain and protect your glasses, ensuring clear vision and long-lasting use. The kit comes with a microfiber cleaning cloth, lens cleaning spray, and a convenient carrying case. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, our Eyewear Care Kit is designed to be portable and easy to use, so you can keep your lenses spotless no matter where your adventures take you. Don't let smudges or dirt ruin your viewā€”make sure your eyewear is always crystal clear with our reliable care kit.

This summer, make the most of every outdoor activity with the right gear and accessories, ensuring both fun and safety under the sun. Whether youā€™re grilling with friends, camping under the stars, casting a line, or staying active, having the right equipment can enhance your experience and help you create unforgettable memories. Embrace the season, explore new activities, and take care of your eyewear to enjoy every moment to the fullest. Happy summer!

Recapping our Not Your Everyday Adventure in Jackson Hole

Weā€™re still coming down from the runner's high of a weekend filled with adventure in Jackson Hole. As you may know, we awarded two people with the trip of a lifetime! The two lucky winners, Michael & Ligia Deaton, received an all expense trip to Jackson Hole ā€” where they joined famed running coach and subject of the book in exploring the local trails. The duo was also hooked up with gear from our partners at , , , and , relaxed at the in downtown Jackson and took in the snow covered peaks of the Teton Range atop . Check out some of the sights below and catch the full recap of this amazing trail running adventre in the video above!

Before heading into the mountains, we began our day at the local high school track working on our running foundation.

In between morning warmups and tackling the trails, our winners took in the views at one of the most iconic scenic spots in Jackson ā€” .

On Day Two, we set our sights on Jackson Hole Mountain Resort ā€” and Corbet Cabin's infamous

With Waffles consumed and some scenic views taken in (Cody Peak), we departed the top of Jackson Hole Mountain resort via their tram and wrapped up our awesome adventure!

"Been wearing your brand for many years, just love them.Ģż Recently, we were backcountry skiing 2.5 miles deep out here in Colorado when my wifeā€™s sole became separated from her shoe.Ģż There was no way that skiing was possible without a field repair.Ģż After several attempts and failures to hold the shoe to the soleā€”we were out of options.

No duct tape and her hair bands kept breaking and shoe laces didnā€™t work and so we were out of options.Ģż Brilliantly, my wife looked me straight in the eyes and the light went off.Ģż She quickly grabbed for my Soft2Bet, practically tearing them off my head, and went to work.Ģż They performed remarkably well allowing her to ski back to the trail head and get off the mountain.Ģż The snow was so deep that walking out was not an option.

So, more than just holding your sunglasses, we applaud the strength and ability to perform in the worst conditions.

Thanks for the 'support' over the years."

~ Tim K.

by Soft2Bet Ambassador Parker Smith

It was sometime during the winter when my friend sent me a short text message: I pulled a permit, May 21. My mind immediately went into planning mode, we were going on the Smith River!ĢżĢż

The Smith River is one of the most popular rivers in Montana. So popular, in fact, the state had to institute a permit system for folks to ļ¬‚oat it - the only body of water in the state to do so. The trip takes you 59 miles down one of the most scenic river corridors in the world. Parties are limited to fifteen and there is a four night maximum for camping on the river before you must take out!

"My mind immediately went into planning mode, we were going on the Smith River!"

I was reading Undaunted Courage, which chronicles the epic journey of Lewis and Clark, as I was planning for the trip. I couldn't help but draw some parallels, except for the fact that all of our planning took place via email. We planned our meals, campsites, our firewood ration, a few other essential items, and left the rest up to whatever folks brought to the put in. We camped at Camp Baker the night before our launch date and sorted through a mountain of gear, discarding extras and taking on last-thought essentials. Needless to say, we were outfitted!

The experience of the Smith is spectacular and is very difficult to describe in words. The river meanders through lush ranch land and a deep canyon. Spires and precipitous cliff walls line every bend as you venture farther into the canyon. Most of our party were fishermen and women, and some nice ļ¬sh were caught. But the water was high and muddy, and folks had to work hard to catch ļ¬sh. In my boat, we couldnā€™t focus on fishing for trying to take in the sights, and soon dismissed fishing all together. The weather cooperated for us. We had some light rain during the first three days, but the clouds always seemed to break as we hit camp. The last two days were blue skies, warm temps, and calm winds.

"The experience of the Smith is spectacular and is very difficult to describe in words."

Each night our campsite was situated on the bank opposite a towering cliff wall, with beautiful flower-filled meadows behind us. Our meal plan proved to be exceptional, and each evening after dinner we ventured into the meadows to some of the most breathtaking vistas and sunsets. Once the sun had set, a warm campļ¬re was the best way to cap off the day.

As with anything so special, the trip went by in a ļ¬‚ash. Before we knew it we were at the take out unpacking our boats and saying our goodbyes. In the moment, I think it was tough to quantify what transpired on the river. But as we neared civilization our phones started coming to life, and I couldn't help but wish we were still deep in a remote canyon. Guess weā€™ll just have to put in for a permit next year.

DAY 1

Camp Baker - Rock Garden

The weather for take off was nice and sunny. We stopped a couple times along the way to take in the scenery and to have some lunch. There was some rain in the afternoon that stopped as soon as we reached our first camp.

Day 2

Rock Garden - Sunset Cliff

The second day started off chilly and rainy but the weather cleared up as soon as we reached camp. We setup camp and had elk steak and veggies for dinner.

Day 3

Sunset Cliff - Fraunhoffer

As the previous days it was chilly and rainy for the first part of the day. After about 2 miles of takeoff we stopped at the Heaven on Earth Ranch. This Ranch is well-known amongst the floaters. You can play a round of golf or just get a pitcher (or two) of their signature cocktail - the Deep Creek. It was a welcome stop as it was raining pretty hard at that point and it was great to be in the dry for a couple hours. As always the weather cleared up as soon as we reached camp. Lucky us!

Day 4

Fraunhoffer - Rattlesnake

The last full day on the river. For once we got up to nice weather which lasted all day. On this stretch of river there is a cave you can hike up to. It is a quick 30 min hike with a bit of a rock scramble at the end but well worth it for the views and the pictographs in the cave. The mission of this day was to burn as much wood as we could and get rid of as much food/drinks as possible as this was the last day of camping.