Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Leominster State Forest: In the Diving Bubble

You got your rock wall on my trail.  You got your trail on my rock wall.

Leominster and I go way back. 

Back when my idea of mountain biking was riding the fire road freeways at Blue Hills, I found a place that challenged my idea of where a mountain bike could go.  Every Thursday my buddy Gered and I made runs down the spine jarring, bone bruising, glorified streambeds that Leominster calls trails.

Did I mention that we used to ride there at night?

Monday, June 27, 2011

Gear Review: Marmot Randonnee Bib Shell Pant


I have the legs of a Hobbit.  This is a good thing for balance and playing soccer, but not so good for finding pants that fit. 

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

The Western Greenway Expands: A Dream Is Born



My mountain biking universe just got a little bigger.  Walnut Street used to signify the edge of my nightly ride in Belmont, but two weekends of volunteer trail work by NEMBA has changed everything.

Friday, May 13, 2011

Gear Review: EMS Mountain Light -20F Sleeping Bag


Did you ever have a “binky” growing up: a tattered old blanket that you turned to for safety and security when your Momma wasn’t around?  Well, I had one. Until it mysteriously went missing one day. (I know it was you, Mom.)  As it turns out, binkies aren’t just for toddlers. 

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Gear Review: Sea to Summit Reactor Bag Liner


The first thing you are going to say when you pull one of these out of its stuff sacks is, “No frickin way”… as in, “There is no frickin way this is going to add any warmth to my sleeping bag.” 

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

-Trip Report- Gulf of Slides: The Sideshow (April 30 - May 1, 2011)


Spring skiing at its best.
Mt. Washington can resemble a Spring circus.  The crowds gather for an annual festival that marks the end of the ski season.  Some people enjoy the show under the big tent: lions, clowns and of course, those candy peanuts.  But the main event isn't the only show in town.  Somewhere near the big tent sits the sideshow: a mystery tent with freaks, thrills and otherworldly experiences waiting to be discovered.  While the sideshow lacks the pomp and circumstance of the main tent, it can still blow your mind.