Topics of Expertise: Skiing, Trail Running, Mountain Biking, Mountaineering, Backpacking
Years in This Expertise: 15+
Education & Certifications
Education: MS Conservation Leadership (Colorado State University), BA Environmental Science (University of Denver)
Years of Writing: 5+
Certifications: AIARE Avalanche I & II, WFR, Alpine Rescue, Conservation Action Planning (CAP), OSI Ecological Restoration Crew Leader
Previous Publications: Vail Daily, Cripple Creek Backcountry, Journal of Insect Conservation, Land Trust Alliance
A Word From Bergen Tjossem
Bergen Tjossem is a conservation professional, nature nerd, and outdoor fanatic based in Vail, Colorado. His life and career have centered around protecting the natural environment and public lands that raised him, but as Ed Abbey put it, “It is not enough to fight for the land; It is even more important to enjoy it.” So when Bergen is not working to conserve land and wildlife habitat in his day job, you’ll find him ski touring before dawn, mountain biking until dark, running trails until his legs fall off, cooking over a campfire with his friends, or making the world’s best pizza with his wife, Rachel. You can find him on Instagram.
If you’re a speed backpacker or mountain runner looking to move farther and faster in the backcountry, the Outdoor Vitals Skyline Fastpack is made for…
The breathable GORE-TEX Norvan Shell Pants from Arc’teryx are purpose-built for trail running in nasty conditions — and they won’t turn you into a swamp monster.
The updated North Face Phantom 38 Backpack attaches every tool you’ll need for mountaineering, ski touring, and backpacking if you don’t mind it getting dirty.
Norrøna’s Senja line is its first running-specific series. It’s purpose-built for running in rugged terrain and weather like its Norwegian namesake would demand.
The newest contender in the belay pant showdown goes minimalist to maximize functionality across the outdoor rec spectrum: the Patagonia DAS Light pant.
