Flor'Easter Backcountry & First World Problems

I’m on my way to a new adventure.

The week between Christmas and New Year’s often heralds the beginning of the ski year for me: that is, if you don’t count an occasional October snowstorm or a few turns down the White Ribbon of Death.  So while most people would jump at the chance to take a trip to warmer climes this time of year, vacationing a thousand miles from a skiable slope during this week is akin to me being sent to my room for a week. 

Ten Things for Backcountry Skiers to Do While Waiting for Old Man Winter to Get His Head Out of His A**

Something's missing.

Unless you’ve been busy hiding under the bed with a bad case of Seasonal Affective Disorder, you’ve probably noticed that there’s been a determined lack of snow in the Northeast.  In between checking the depressing weather reports from the solitude of my couch-cushion spider hole, I’ve developed a list of activities to help us backcountry skiers cope with our increasing despair. 

So put down the half empty bottle of spiced rum, put some pants on, and gather around for my list of ten things to do while you wait for Old Man Winter to get his sh# together.

-Trip Report- Lowell-Dracut-Tyngsboro State Forest: The Silver Line (November 2011)

After the leaves have fallen, the Silver Line magically appears.  Pressed from the foliage, the tannins retreat into the soil bringing relief to mountain bikers fumbling along leaf covered trails.

For a few fleeting weeks, it lends a helping hand until the snow claims the forest floor.

Thank you, Silver Line.  Thank you, Mr. November.

You can read my full review of the trails here.

More photos after the jump.

Alpine Touring Binding Comparison Chart

Oh the places you will go.

If you're thinking of buying a pair of backcountry bindings, then let me make your search a little easier.  I've put together a handy chart of the most popular alpine touring bindings for your viewing pleasure.  Whether you're hucking 20 foot cliffs or rando racing, there's a binding designed specifically for you.

Millstone Hill Trails: The Video

It looks like mountain biking weather for another weekend, so in celebration (okay consolation) I put together a video from my recent trip to Millstone Hill with Brad.

Note that Brad was riding a suspension-less singlespeed that day.  He deserves some sort of trophy.

According to the Millstone management, this is the last weekend that the trails are open.  So get out and enjoy them while you still can!

-Trip Report- Pine Hill Park: Now There's A Reason to go to Rutland (November 2011)

Rutland has long been the Rodney Dangerfield of Vermont towns: it doesn't get any respect. From it's derisive nicknames (i.e. "The Rut", "Rut-vegas") to…well, the title of the article, it takes a lot of flak from the outside world and especially from Vermonters.

After sampling the local trails at Pine Hill Park, I may owe the good folks from Rutland an apology.