TABLE OF CONTENTS SNOWSHOEING – 3
Learn to float on snow: get started with this article and all your snowy outings will go smoothly. Emergency snowshoes – 7
gear review
WINTER CAMPING – 9
How to build a Quinzhee: keeping you warm in this unique and easy-to-build snow shelter. High-energy meals for winter activities – 12
We took 8 pairs of snowshoes and put them through their paces in the Adirondacks. Find the right one for you.
The Basics: read the key steps and hit the nearby trails. Let’s go backcountry skiing – 20 Skijoring: go to the dogs this winter – 23
SNOWBOARDING – 28
All the gear you need to get started: head to toe look at doing it right. Map of the ski hills within three hours driving distance – 26
ADVENTURE TRAVEL
X-COUNTRY SKIING – 16
DOWNHILL SKIING – 29
Choosing the right ski: with all the new types out there, there’s more out there than you may think.
ICE CLIMBING – 32
Would you like ice with that? Read about what it takes to get into this sport. Your teeth’ll be chattering and it won’t be the cold.
DOGSLEDDING – 35
Take a glide on the wild side: hold on tight when you read this article and you’ll see why everyone’s flocking to run wild. Kicksledding – 38 2– Publisher’s Letter 14–Gear Review 18–Stargazing 22–Esssential Gear 30–Profile
Cover photo by Ray Pilon
40–Adventure Travel 44–Column 46–Survival Kids 47–The Bark 48–Urban Spice
50–Events Calendar 52–Escapes 53–Subscription Info.
Lose yourself in
Thailand’s paradise
Sea kayaking doesn’t get any better – 40
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
LET’S GO EXPLORING
T
he canal’s open for our annual couple of months of skating, we have some snow on the ground (more to come please), and everyone’s out using their Christmas presents on the blanket of white covering this amazing landscape we call our back yard. Welcome to the winter edition of Ottawa Outdoors Magazine. As you’ll see by our stunning table of contents, we’re introducing you to some new sports and filling your vision with colourful photographs of people like you enjoying our very own winter wonderland. Ever gone dog-sledding? Read Cathy’s article about how unbelievably exhilarating it is. Want to go cross-country skiing, but you’re not sure where the trails are located? Read our beginner’s guide – list of trails included – on page 16! Alpine skiing has been a huge part of the Ottawa winter scene for years. Check out our centre spread to find a great map showing you exactly where to find the main dozen or so hills. So get in your car, grab your skis or your board, and head to the hills for some much-needed fresh air. When a wave of contentment washes over you, sit down and sip on some warm, tasty mulled wine. In fact, why not make your own, as described in our Urban Spice section on page 48? And what about snowshoeing? The craze for this outdoor pursuit rivals that of mountain biking from years past. Hiking on snow, traveling on routes and trails in and outside of the city offers boundless adventures. Just the other day I was out on my snowshoes with a friend’s dog, enjoying Mooney’s Bay on a sunny Saturday afternoon. Amazing! Here’s the good news… winter is just beginning! Now that the season has rolled in like a “lamb,” we all get the chance to enjoy what makes us uniquely and wonderfully Canadian. Whether you’re out playing shinny on your local rink, taking an interest in a new or old outdoor pursuit, or tackling some of the more adventure-oriented pursuits featured in this issue (like ice-climbing and quinzhee building), one thing’s certain: Ottawa offers tons of exciting activities. And because we only go around this life once, you best be grabbin’ your mits and hat and enjoy the ride! Like Calvin said to Hobbes in that wonderful final cartoon strip of Bill Watterson: Calvin: “Wow, it really snowed last night! Isn’t it wonderful? Hobbes: “Everything familiar has disappeared! The world looks brand new! Calvin: “A new year… a fresh clean start! Hobbes: “It’s like having a big white sheet of paper to draw on!” Calvin: “A day full of possibilities! It’s a magical world. Hobbes, ol’ buddy…let’s go exploring.”
I couldn’t have said it better. Happy trails.
Dave Brown Publisher, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Dave Brown Managing Editor Allen Macartney Editors Denise Allen, Lesley Cornish Contributing Editors Ken Parker Larry McCloskey Design and Layout Dave Brown Graphic Designer Lisa Kinloch, Francois Daigle Contributing Writers Cheryl Christensen, Chantal Macartney, Allen Macartney, Susan Muehlherr, Garth Pyper, David McMahon, Lise Meloche, Brian McCullough, Stephen Seabrook, Cathy Brown, Wanda Purton, Chris Lindsay, Kevin Pidgeon, Melanie Brown, Dave Clements, Andrew Miles, Mike Lomas, Dave Stibbe, Angie Brown, Ryan Brown, Julie St. Jean Contributing Photographers Ray Pilon, National Capital Commission (NCC), Allen Macartney, Mountain Equipment Co-op, Norm Wong, Garth Pyper, David McMahon, Brian McCullough, Wanda Purton, Tommy and Lefebvre, Canada Ski Museum, Suzie Beaulieu, Mike Beedell, Dave Stibbe, John Gray, Larry McCloskey, Outlast Adventure Racing, Julie St. Jean, Harry Nowell ADVERTISING Please contact: Dave Brown Publisher/Editor-in-Cheif Ottawa Outdoors Magazine is an independent publication published seasonally. Email: Advertising@OttawaOutdoors.ca Tel: 613-860-8688 SUBSCRIPTIONS See inside back cover of this issue or visit www.OttawaOutdoors.ca Ottawa Outdoors Magazine 2706 Alta Vista Drive, Suite #107 Ottawa, Canada K1V 7T4 Tel: 613-860-8688. Internet: www.OttawaOutdoors.ca CONTRIBUTIONS Ottawa Outdoors Magazine welcomes story and photo contributions. All photos should ideally be shot with colour slides. No unsolicited contributions will be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. CANADIAN / U.S. POSTMASTER: Return undeliverable covers to 2706 Alta Vista Drive, Suite #107, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1V 7T4. Return postage guaranteed. Indexed in the Canadian Periodical Index ISSN No. 1204-69556. © Copyright 2002. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any materials published in Ottawa Outdoors Magazine is expressly forbidden without consent of the publisher unless otherwise agreed between partners. Printed in Canada.
ARE YOU AN OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST WHO WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE? If you would like to submit photos or articles to Ottawa Outdoors magazine, please email us: Editor@OttawaOutdoors.ca www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
SNOWSHOEING
Learn to float above the ground It’s easy on snowshoes By Cheryl Christensen
“I HATE THIS!” That’s what I thought the first time I tried snowshoeing. It was grade 6, and snowshoeing was part of our physical education program. Before taking my first step I admit I was curious, even interested. This mild fascination soon melted away as frostbite started nipping my fingers as I laced up the harness. Soon I was waddling around the school yard, trying desperately not to trip, serenaded by a chorus of snickering students. Photo by National Capital Commission.
“Try walking backwards,” someone called out, suppressing a fiendish smirk. Trustingly, I did and immediately flopped over backwards into a deep snowdrift. Rescuing myself proved almost impossible. Clearly, this sport was not for me. I decided I’d sooner let someone practice home dentistry on me than duplicate this experience. What a mistake that decision proved. Today, I love snowshoeing. The sport has changed dramatically. Traditional bear paw style snowshoes have evolved into cyborgian combinations of synthetics and steel, with ice-grabbing teeth on the bottom to improve traction. Once I tried on a
pair of these beauties, I was hooked. Before snowshoes evolved into ultra-light frames with synthetic decking, hiking was a three-season activity. Winter just blocked wilderness trails. Now, hikers can go to places unreachable by even skiers. Is snowshoeing hard to learn? Not at all. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. Lessons and workshops aren’t even necessary. All it takes is a bit of patience before you’re enjoying an incredible winter experience. And snowshoeing is inexpensive. You can get fully outfitted for considerably less cash than it would cost to purchase a full ski package.
SNOWSHOE ANATOMY LESSON
The science behind snowshoeing is pretty simple; if you increase the surface area of a person’s foot, he or she can float over the snow regardless how deep it is. It’s a bit like flying. The basic principle works for rabbits, and it has worked for humans for many centuries.
Snowshoes have three basic body parts: a frame, a deck and a binding. High-tech models come with metal teeth or crampons underfoot that provide good traction on ice or hardpacked snow. The frame is the wood or metal skeleton of the snowshoe that provides shape and structure. The size and shape of the frame (along with the decking material used) affects the floatation – its ability to resist sinking into the snow. The larger the snowshoe, the better floatation it provides. Unfortunately, there’s a flip side. The larger the snowshoe, the heavier it is, and the harder it is to walk in. Surrounded by and attached to the frame, decking is the material that enables a person to “float” on snow. Decking can be a laced-together, rawhide structure, as found in traditional snowshoes, or a solid material – everything from hard plastics to a softer rubbery material called Hypalon™. The binding attaches your boot to the snowshoe. Well-designed bindings provide control by attaching www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
get away with a much smaller snowshoe than those in regions treated to a regular dose of fluffy powder.
CHOOSE THE BEST ‘SOLE’-MATE SNOWSHOE
Picture yourself snowshoeing. What do you see? Does a three-hour trek along a flat or gently rolling NCC or Gatineau Park trail satisfy you? If this vision fulfills all your expectations, a walking snowshoe is probably all you need. You wouldn’t need to carry more than a light daypack for a thermos of hot chocolate and other essentials. Lightweight, easy to walk with, fixed rotation bindings with small crampons: these snowshoes are geared to making your winter walking/hiking experience very positive. Walking snowshoes are often smaller than others, because they aren’t geared to off-trail use. The snow found on trails tends to be more densely-packed and harder than the light, fluffy previouslyunsquashed stuff.
Hundreds of years ago native people used snowshoes for transportation and survival, not recreation. Theirs were larger than many present-day models, and prov i d e d excellent floatation in off-trail, wilderness conditions. The B e a r Paw (a large oval shape) and the Beaver Tail (shaped like a giant tennis racquet) were the two most popular models. The esthetics of these time-tested designs still appeal to traditionalists who appreciate the warm beauty of a wood frame and intricate craftsmanship strung into the rawhide. However, these snowshoes do require a little more maintenance – primarily re-varnishing to seal the wood and rawhide from water. These larger snowshoes can support weight better than any other type of snowshoe, though they lack maneuverability and traction. Newer, high-tech snowshoes have lightweight metal frames, and a synthetic decking. Generally smaller than traditional style snowshoes, these models rarely break on the trail and provide years of worry-free usage. Before buying a pair, decide what type of snowshoeing you’re most likely to do. Most people want a good, recreational snowshoe. In the end, you might decide you need two types of snowshoes: a small, short pair for adventures on packed trails, and a larger pair for off-trail weekend hikes. Geography and snow conditions also determine how far you’ll sink. The Ottawa area is usually treated to a heavy, wet snow that packs down fairly densely. Snowshoers in our region, especially those who will be predominantly on trails, can generally
Walking Snowshoes
Backpacking Snowshoes
Snowshoe photos by Suzie Beaulieu.
Photo by National Capital Commission.
the user to the snowshoe snugly, and fitting the users’ footwear. It must be comfortable to walk in, and be easy to use. Not all footwear fit snowshoe bindings. When shopping for bindings, bring the boot to the store that you plan to wear. Bindings come in different types: fixed rotation, free rotation, and variable rotation. Most recreational snowshoes have a fixed rotation binding. Although easier to use and very maneuverable, a snowshoe with this binding will snap up with your foot, making a slapping sound and flipping snow up with each step. Free rotation bindings rotate freely, allowing the snowshoe heel to drop with each step. The dropping action helps shed accumulating snow, and allows the toe crampons to dig into snow on a steep ascent. Although great for mountaineering pursuits, on flatter terrain a snowshoer may find the dragging action created by the dropping heel provides less maneuverability. Snowshoers with bindings that allow variable rotation can adjust the
tension to customize the rotation between fixed and free. This type of binding only comes with very specialized snowshoes.
If gentle rolling snowshoe trails aren’t enough to satisfy your adventure lust, you’re probably after the beauty and solitude of untouched landscapes. Longer, multi-day treks are probably part of your expectations. That means you’ll need a larger snowshoe that offers greater off-trail possibilities and more floatation in deep snow when you’re carrying a heavy pack. Traction is crucial, so the crampons must have some serious bite as the terrain grows more arduous. Most snowshoes in this category feature fixed rotation bindings. Remember, the heavier you and your backpack are, the bigger a snowshoe you’ll need.
going up (climbing), coming down (descending), or walking horizontally across (traversing) slopes. These snowshoes feature free rotation bindings to permit the user to kick their crampons into each step up the hill.
Fitness/Racing Snowshoes
Mountaineering/Alpine Backpacking
Photo by National Capital Commission.
“Why walk when you can run?” Is this your motto? Then fitness/racing snowshoes might be for you. They tend to be quite small, and asymmetrical in their frame design to permit the runner’s feet to land very close to where they would naturally fall. These shoes are suited for use on hard-packed surfaces and will provide little or no floatation in unpacked snow.
SNOWSHOE ACCESSORIES
Photo by National Capital Commission.
Everyone should carry a small pack during all outdoor experiences, containing essentials like a small first aid kit, an emergency blanket, matches and other emergency items. These are your “what if” backup. Their importance magnifies as the temperature dives, and night falls, with you unexpectedly still on the trail. Let’s consider some other accessories for improved snowshoeing. Though some people find ski poles adequate for snowshoeing, telescopic poles are quickly becoming an increasingly popular tool for the sport. They’re adjustable to ensure that they are always the proper height for the user. Winter trekking poles also come with snow baskets at the tips (similar to those found on ski poles). Using poles when snowshoeing will: • Increase stability and control • Bring your upper body into the workout • Help increase your traveling efficiency on flatter terrain • Alleviate stress on knees and hips on a descent • Make climbing hills feel easier. With shorter days and longer nights, a snowshoer might get caught out after dark. A headlamp gives handsfree illumination to the trail; not only is this a safety consideration, but it also increases the near-magical
Taking Care of Your Snowshoes By Chantal Macartney Whether you have traditional or high-tech snowshoes, carry them to the trail. Never wear them in a rocky parking lot. Traditional wooden snowshoes are not difficult to look after. The little effort required will give you many years of snowshoeing enjoyment. When the season comes to an end, brush a thin coat of marine varnish over your wooden snowshoes (including webbing). Make sure you don’t get any varnish on the leather harness. Let the first coat of varnish dry before lightly rubbing fine sandpaper along the wooden frame. Then, apply another coat of varnish. This will prevent sagging and stretching of the rawhide, due to its absorbing water. Treat the leather binding as you would a good pair of hiking boots. Apply either a coat of mink oil or silicone leather treatment. This will keep it soft and pliable. Do you have a pair of lightweight, metal, high-tech snowshoes? They require almost no maintenance, just a simple wipe with a cloth after use. It’s a good idea to store your snowshoes in a dry, cool place – well away from any gnawing mice!
Photo by Allen Macartney.
If you need a mountaineering or alpine backpacking snowshoe, you’re looking for a tough snowshoe for rugged terrain. Look for aggressive crampons, impenetrable decking, bindings that will accommodate larger (often plastic) boots. These work well for situations involving altitude –
GEAR UP FORYOUR
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
experience of a moonlit stroll over a snowy landscape. Snowshoers need to drink lots of water. Even though you might not feel thirsty, your body is losing water through perspiration and the dry winter air. Place an insulated water bottle inside a pack or your parka to slow down the freezing process. High energy snacks are essential, particularly if you are going to be out on the trail all day using up lots of calories. Try keeping snacks inside your jacket where your body heat will help keep them unfrozen.
YOU’VE GOT TO TRY IT
— Cheryl Christensen is an avid outdoor enthusiast and staff member of Mountain Equipment Co-op.
Photo: Daniel Levesque
Ottawa 366 Richmond Road, 613.729.2700 www.mec.ca
Women’s Snowshoes? Women can’t always use the same snowshoes as men; females have a different body shape that naturally affects their walk. They tend to have smaller, narrower feet than men and need a smaller binding. As well, women have a shorter stride, and narrower stance than men. Narrower, tapered snowshoes permit women to assume a more natural stride. Look for manufacturers who make snowshoes specifically for women, there’s several out there.
Photo by Allen Macartney.
Snowshoeing is the perfect winter activity. With its inexpensive start-up, quick learning curve, and self-tailored level of exercise for folks of all ages and fitness levels. No wonder snowshoeing is gaining in popularity with each passing season. Don’t take my word for it. Obviously I’m biased. Try it yourself. Many outdoor retailers have rental programs that permit you to “test-drive” a pair snowshoes. See you on the trails.
Emergency snowshoes
Get out of trouble as quickly as you get into it By Chantal Macartney
Illustrations by Lisa Kinloch
YOUR WIPERS CAN BARELY keep up to the snow hitting your car’s windshield. It’s dark, but not very cold. You’re many kilometers from home along a rarely used farm road, and the drifting snow makes driving very difficult. Suddenly you hit an ice patch, skid sideways, and slide into the ditch. After scrambling out of your car, you assess your options. Will you stay in your car over night and hope someone finds you next morning, or hike back to the farmhouse you passed five kilometers back? If you choose to head for the warm farmhouse, another problem faces you: the blowing snow is drifting more deeply across the road with every passing moment. Walking through snow can sap energy faster than almost any other outdoor physical activity. A pair of emergency snowshoes would make your hike much easier. Emergency snowshoes are surprisingly easy to build. Besides the basic ingredients (evergreen boughs, saplings or tough bushes), all you need is thin, strong cord, and a jackknife. If you have a roll of duct tape and copper wire, your options increase immeasurably.
Evergreen Bough Snowshoes
When quick action is required, emergency snowshoes made from evergreen branches are the easiest type to make. They also require the least amount of time to fashion – sometimes only taking minutes. For each snowshoe, gather one or two evergreen branches up to one metre long, and tie them together with
Photo by Ållen Macartney.
Make sure the back of your bough snowshoe drags behind your boot. This will give stability to your snowshoeing, and help you track more easily through the snow. Note: In wet conditions, evergreen bough snowshoes tend to pick up snow, making them heavier than some other types of snowshoes.
Sapling Bearpaw Snowshoes
Sapling bearpaw snowshoes take longer to make, but are lighter to walk in and provide good support over deep snow. Cut two saplings from maple or ash, with a diameter of 2 cm at the narrowest point. Take off any shoots or branches growing from the main stem. Make an egg-like (bearpaw) shape by drawing the two ends of each branch together. Tie them in position with cord or wire. Taking strips of cloth or small sticks, make a cord or copper wire. (Fir is the best type of evergreen to use because of its dense needles, and small, thick branches. But cedar, pine or spruce work well too.) Choose the underside of your improvised snowshoes and cut off any branches pointing downward, so they won’t dig into the snow and upset your balance. Lash the boughs to your boots with cord, shoelaces or rope, making sure the wide parts of the branches point forward. (See photo) It’s best to tie the binding through a boot lace or fastener, to prevent the snowshoe from coming off. Your heel should lift freely off the snowshoe.
Start Slowly
Emergency snowshoes are not particularly easy to maneuver through heavy snow, because they tend to be heavier than commercial snowshoes and they may not be of uniform
size. They also lack edges. So, start out slowly until you feel comfortable. Only then, increase your speed.
criss-cross pattern across the frame. (See diagram) Tie them in place. If you have duct tape, use it to form the web-like structure that will support your weight over the snow. Double thicknesses work best. For the harness, tie a piece of rope to the frame. If you have a long distance to travel, strengthen your snowshoe frame by tying two sticks both vertically and horizontally across the frame, separated by at least 20 centimetres.
Pole Snowshoes
If you’re in an area with lots of saplings, make pole snowshoes. You’ll need three to four saplings per snowshoe (one and a half metres long, and no wider than 2 cm thick), and 12 tough sticks (six for each snowshoe, 2 cm thick and 25 cm long). Lash three or four long saplings together at their narrowest end. (This will be the front of your snowshoe.) Lay the saplings down flat, and spread them out so the distance between the two outside saplings is about 25 to 30 cm. Place one stick across all four saplings, and lash it to each. (See diagram) Now fasten three or four sticks in front of the half-way, balance point, spreading the saplings outward so the snowshoe is about 30 cm wide. Lash two or three more sticks about 30 cm behind the balance point sticks. Use strong cord or rope to secure the toe of your boot to the snowshoe. Once more, make sure your heel can lift off the snowshoe. www.OttawaOutdoors.
By Allen Macartney Illustrations by Lisa Kinloch
ATHABASCAN NATIVE TRAPPERS and hunters have built quinzhees (pronounced quin-zee) as hunting or winter survival shelters for hundreds of years. Warm and easy to build, they protect a camper from winter’s harshest elements far better than any tent. What’s a quinzhee? Basically, it’s a hollowed out pyramid of snow. There are two main ways to make a quinzhee, depending on whether it is an emergency shelter, or a cozy home for an enjoyable weekend camp. You can either make the snow pile yourself (the weekend camp), or look for a deep snow bank in the forest or in a ditch (the emergency shelter). The secret to a quinzhee’s warmth is natural, thick insulation. There’s almost none better than snow. A camper can stay warm and snug in a quinzhee even when air temperatures plunge well below freezing. In Ottawa’s climate, quinzhees are far more practical than igloos (which
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
require special snow conditions and can be difficult to make). After a brief explanation, even a child can build a quinzhee. All it takes is a mound of snow, a shovel (or snowshoe), and several hours. Start by looking for an area of flat terrain with no rocks, long grass or underbrush. These will weaken your structure and make construction difficult.
DIG A HOLE, FILL IT IN
Clear the snow away from the spot you want to build the quinzhee. (Native people used their snowshoes.) Then, move the snow back into the area you’ve just cleared. Pile it into a mound at least two metres high
and three or four metres in diameter – large enough for a two-person shelter. “Hold on a minute,” you say. “I’m basically digging a hole then filling it back in?!” That’s right. Most snow isn’t firm and compacted enough to make a safe shelter; so when the snow is tossed into a pile and given several hours to settle, its molecules recrystallize. This makes a firm, safe shelter. Form the snow at the top of your structure into a slightly rounded shape. The arc will help support the snow’s weight, and prevent it from collapsing. After several hours, start digging out the interior of your quinzhee by tunneling down to ground level, and then up into the snow dome. Dig on the lee side of the shelter, away from the wind, and make a small entrance hole. This will minimize drafts. (By digging down, then up you’re creating a lowlying well or sink of cold air.) Make sure the door is at a lower level than your floor. Again, this will keep the shelter warmer. If you can comfortably crawl through the door on hands and knees, your door is too big. Dig out the interior carefully, leaving at least 30 cm of insulating snow on the floor. This bed of snow will make inside temperatures warmer than if you dig right down to the ground.
Photo by Allen Macartney.
WINTER CAMPING
How to build a quinzhee
When hollowing out the quinzhee, kneel on something that is waterproof so your knees don’t get covered in snow that will melt later. Also make sure you don’t get any snow down your neck – always a rude and shocking surprise. Don’t work so hard that you start sweating. Even when dry, sweat will cool you off and cause you to become cold. Some people hollow out their quinzhee wearing very light clothes. (After all, you don’t need lots of layers when you’re giving your body a good physical workout. It will naturally heat up.) Then when they finish, they towel off and change into a dry, clean set of clothes.
Snug in any Temperature Arch the quinzhee’s inside roof so it is no higher than the space campers need to sit up. If you make the ceiling too high, all warm air will rise into the empty space above your head. In an emergency situation, make the quinzhee’s interior even lower to minimize heat loss, and angle the floor slightly upward where your head will be. As you form the walls and arched ceiling, watch for bright spots in the snow. These indicate areas where the insulating cover is too thin. If this happens to you, simply go outside and
pile several shovels of snow over the area. Try to make the wall and ceiling no less than 30 cm thick. This will ensure excellent insulation from outside winds and cold. Some people push sticks 30 cm into the outside of the snow mound all over, making their quinzhee look like a hedgehog. When they’re hollowing out the inside and see the end of a stick, they know to stop digging. Finish your quinzhee by poking one or two air holes (2 cm round) through opposite ends of the roof.
Before rolling out sleeping bags inside your new home, lay a tarpaulin or plastic sheet over the snow floor. Put sleeping mats over this; a double thickness will increase your comfort. The first time I slept in a quinzhee, the outside temperature plunged to -28 degrees C. I didn’t have a winter sleeping bag. “No problem,” I thought. Instead, I stuffed one warm summer sleeping bag inside another one. This experiment proved a great theory that lacked practical application. I tossed around in my improvised winter sleeping bags all night, while my companion (snoring comfortably in a winter sleeping bag) slept soundly. It was a long, cold night. Find some object to block drafts from the entrance hole. A large backpack and a tarpaulin work well. Afraid of running out of fresh air in your quinzhee? As long as you have two small air holes, you should have more than enough. Your door is bound to leak some air, as will other invisible holes. Just be sure nothing is blocking your air holes. Never cook inside a quinzhee. Firing up a stove and cooking builds up carbon dioxide and pollutes the air. Once you’ve settled inside your quinzhee, it’s easy enough to raise the temperature by lighting one or two candles, or wax candle lanterns. They give off a surprising amount of heat. Even with outside temperatures www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Quinzhee Cautions Never build a quinzhee beside a road or snowmobile trail where it might be mistaken as merely a pile of snow. Make sure you supervise children when they are making a quinzhee, and ensure no one walks on the walls when anyone is inside. Smoothering accidents can happen. Don’t make a quinzhee under a tree or other object that might deposit a load of snow unexpectedly on your shelter.
bracketing -25 degrees C, a properly constructed quinzhee with two candles burning inside should be no colder than -3 degrees C. If you wear a toque and have a good hearty supper before bed, you can be cozy, comfortable and happy all night. Avoid drinking liquids three hours before going to bed. It’s awful waking up in the middle of the night having to leave a warm sleeping bag to empty a full bladder. Also, just before heading to bed, go for a short hike – nothing strenuous, just enough exercise to stoke up your internal furnace. You’ll notice the remarkable difference it makes.
CUSTOMIZED DOMICILES
Make your first quinzhee a very humble dwelling in your back yard – nothing elaborate. (A very basic one could consist of a low pile of snow hollowed out.) Become familiar with the building techniques. Then, when your confidence has increased and winter camping skills are well honed, plan a wonderful outing in Gatineau Park during a snowy weekend. That’s when your more grandiose plans can take wing. Some people make elaborate quinzhees, complete with several rooms (e.g. sleeping area, storage area, and even a partly open cooking shelter). These can take one or more entire days to construct. Try cutting shelves into the snow for boots, snowshoes, and packs. Hang a clothes line for wet mitts and socks. Dry winter air will take a lot of the moisture from the cloth. Once settled inside a quinzhee, the first thing most people notice is the almost absolute silence. Even with a howling blizzard raging outside, the insulating snow of your quinzhee will probably erase all sound. It’s the perfect inducement for sleep. Pleasant dreams. — Allen Macartney is the Managing Editor of Ottawa Outdoors Magazine. He has canoed, kayaked, camped and backpacked all over Canada.
OTTAWA RIVER CANADA
WILDERNESS TOURS Full Service Year Round Riverside Resort Raft • Kayak • Mountain Bike Sea Kayak • Climbing Wall 2 and 5 Day Programs
New Teen Kayak Camps
THE RIVER SHOP
KAYAKS & ACCESSORIES
1-800-267-9166
www.wildernesstours.com www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
High-energy, lightweight meals for winter activities By Susan Muehlherr
I LIKE WINTER camping. Bugs are never a problem, and food storage is easy. Nothing spoils. But winter camping, hiking, snowshoeing and skiing demand different food requirements than summer outdoor activities do. You need more fat and proteins to keep your body’s internal furnace burning hot in cold weather.
M
y favourite winter camping recipes are lightweight (therefore perfect for backpacking or snowshoeing weekend adventures), and will provide all the requirements your body needs when enjoying an active winter outdoor experience. Most require home preparations, and some call for dehydrated foods. You can find instructions for dehydrating (it’s easy) in many camping cookbooks, or on the Web. When preparing meals for an outing, keep in mind that everything is going to freeze: bread, cookies, chocolate chips in GORP, peanut butter, even your toothpaste. Plan accordingly. Package your food items in small portions, so they can be sucked on or melted easily. Where possible, put your food bag in the centre of your pack. It will take longer to freeze there.
BREAKFAST PLEASURES
Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, especially during a winter camping expedition.
Sunrise Spuds
This recipe feeds four. You will need:
• 500 mL instant potato flakes • 60 mL instant skim milk powder • Salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste • 125 mL vacuum-sealed bacon (Schneiders™, Maple Leaf™ or President’s Choice™ all make this) • 150 mL grated old cheese.
At home, cut the bacon into small pieces. Thoroughly mix the dry ingredients together. Divide the mixture into four, lunch size, zip-lock™ bags – perfect for individual servings. Make sure you divide the bacon and cheese equally among the bags. At camp when you’re ready for breakfast, just add boiling water (at least 125 mL) to the bag, seal it and kneed with your hands. (Not only will this mix the ingredients, but it will warm up your hands.) The cheese melts, the bacon gets soft and the potatoes absorb all the flavours.
Eat this meal right out of the bag and you’ll avoid unnecessary wash-ups.
LUNCH BREAK
Lunch requires some thought when travelling in winter. You need something to replace the energy you’ve burned, but you don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking. Have something hot to drink (soup, tea or hot chocolate), and then a high-protein lunch. Try soups with ramen noodles; they’re quick and easy.
Pemmican
Fur traders, voyageurs and pioneers made pemmican famous hundreds of years ago. They loved it because pemmican packed easily, and provided a feast of calories and energy for a tired body. Here’s how to make some. You will need: • Two 2 oz. packages of pressed, cooked beef (available at lunch meat counters in grocery stores) • Dash of cayenne pepper (optional). • 375 mL raisins • 375 mL chopped nuts (peanuts, cashews, pecans) • 250 mL chopped, dried fruit (apples, peaches, dates, apricots, etc.) • 30 mL honey • 30 mL peanut butter. 1/2
At home, dry the cooked beef then crush it. Put the crushed meat in a mixing bowl, and add raisins, nuts and fruits. Mix it well. Gently heat the honey and peanut butter in a small saucepan over low heat until they melt. Blend them into the dry ingredients. Finish by adding cayenne pepper. Pack the pemmican into personal, ziplock bags. When stopped on the trail for lunch, eat your pemmican, washing it down with hot tea or soup. There’s hardly any food that will provide more energy.
Fast and Easy
Look in the specialty aisle of your grocery store for instant dried hummus, and refried bean dip. These are lightweight, just-add-water products that are perfect for the trail. President’s Choice, Too Good To Be True™ brand offers many products that I use. At lunch, simply mix the hummus or refried bean dip in a zip-lock bag with hot water, then spread it on Triscuit™ crackers for
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
a delicious, high energy snack. On a particularly cold day, or one where you’re burning lots of calories, sprinkle on pre-grated cheese for added fat, and enjoy it with a cup of soup.
the meat and vegetables have re-hydrated, add more water if necessary, heat once more, and add the potatoes, milk powder and gravy mix.
HEARTYSUPPERSWILL STOKEYOURINTERNAL FURNACE
• 250 mL regular rice (white or brown) • 10 x 10 cm piece of dried tomato sauce • 250 mL dehydrated peas. • One chicken bouillon cube • One package of freezedried chicken.
Where possible, cook all suppers in one pot during winter camping expeditions. Not only is this more fuel efficient (i.e. you carry less weight), but it also eliminates having to chisel frozen food off the sides of numerous pots when you’re cleaning up. For supper you should need only a bowl, spoon and a pot. Food stays warmer in a bowl, than spread over a plate.
Shepherd’s Pie in a Pot You will need:
• 375 mL instant potato flakes • 15 mL instant skim milk powder • 250 mL dehydrated hamburger • 250 mL dried peas and corn • One package of gravy mix.
At home, put the hamburger and dried veggies in one small plastic bag. Mix the potato flakes, gravy mix and milk powder together in another bag. At camp, boil 750 mL of water and add the hamburger and vegetables. Turn off the heat and let the mixture soak for 30 minutes, heating it once or twice to keep it hot. Once www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Chicken and Rice You will need:
At home, package the rice and bouillon cube in one plastic bag. Tear the dried sauce into small pieces before packaging it with the chicken and peas in another bag. At camp, add the rice and bouillon to 500 mL of water in your cooking pot. Cover it and bring the pot to a boil; simmer for 15 minutes. After 10 minutes, add 375 mL more water to the pot, as well as the sauce, chicken and peas. Continue to simmer the mixture with the pot covered, stirring occasionally. Cook until the rice is done, the peas are plump and the liquid is absorbed. This hearty meal serves four.
Vegetable and Ground Beef Stew with Dumplings
When the temperature plunges, this recipe will keep four winter campers happy and warm. You will need:
• 250 mL dried ground beef • 250 mL dehydrated vegetables • 250 mL biscuit mix.
At home, put the meat and vegetables together in one bag, and put the biscuit mix in another. At camp, put the meat and vegetables in a pot with 500 mL water. Cover, bring to a boil and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Add 60 mL of water to the biscuit mix in the plastic bag. Seal the bag, and squeeze it gently until it’s well blended. Squeeze blobs of dough onto the top of the stew, cover and cook another 10 minutes. Then take the lid off and continue to cook until the dumplings are done. The flour from the biscuit mix will help thicken the stew liquid, making it into gravy. Serves four. Everyone enjoys a snack before bedtime, and in the winter snacks are even more important. Consuming something warm will help keep you toasty through the night. Who says you have to sacrifice taste when you go winter camping? Bon appetit! — Susan Muehlherr has backpacked, camped and canoed all over Canada and has prepared these meals countless times.
Photo by National Capital Commission.
Drink Enough Water in Winter Did you know that it’s just as important to drink water in winter as it is in summer? In summer, perspiration and heat makes you thirsty. In winter, the air is very dry, which takes a great amount of water from your body. Blowing your nose also leads to a surprising amount of water loss. Tuck a water bottle inside your jacket to keep it from freezing, and remember to drink frequently. Sucking on snow does not replenish lost water in your body. Actually, it takes more energy to melt the snow than you receive from sucking on it. If you are cold already, melting snow in your mouth can lead to hypothermia. If you’d like to make a nice drink, try mixing Jell-o™ with hot water. It’s both tasty and nutritious for active winter fun.
Metric Conversions 1/4 Teaspoon = 1 mL 1 Teaspoon = 5 mL 1 Tablespoon = 15 mL 1/4 Cup = 60 mL 1/2 Cup = 125 mL 1 Cup = 250 mL
Gear Review
Snowshoepaloza Finding the right one for you By Garth Pyper
Atlas 1030 I WEIGH 190 pounds. Even with a fifty pound pack on my back, I found the Atlas 1030 provided adequate flotation in up to two feet of fresh powder, and excellent flotation on lightly-packed trails. Where this snowshoe consistently impressed me, however, was on steep uphill climbs. Here, the solid mountaineering-style crampons bit into everything from tightly-packed snow, to ice without any difficulty. The springloaded binding system works well, keeping you from dragging your snowshoes with each step. The dual-strap binding on these shoes wraps around the arch and ball of your foot independently, securing your heel in line with your foot, and making for a highly customizable and secure fit. One nice “extra” is a heavy-duty nylon pad and strap system, which can be attached to your pack to protect it from the crampons when the shoes are not in use. Weight: 2.39 kilograms Binding: spring-loaded, ratchet Frame: aluminum tubing, right and left specific Weight: up to 250 lbs Best for: mountaineering, general use Flash: Excellent spring-loaded binding system, fits all boots – even plastic mountaineering boots. Solid crampon. Fizzle: A little on the heavy side Available at: Bushtukah
Atlas 825 Electra THE ATLAS Electra series was designed by women for women, with a shorter stride. Nathalie, the only woman in our group, reported that the Electra offers the same great spring-loaded binding system as the 10 Series, which allowed for a little added power in each step. It has the 10 Series’ binding padded tongue, arch support, and it distributed the binding pressure evenly across the bottom of the feet. The snowshoe provided great arch support, and didn’t pinch her feet. The crampon system is suited more for general use hiking in the Gatineaus or walking on flat trails, than it is for really steep terrain. Weight: 1.8 kilograms Binding: spring-loaded, ratchet Frame: aluminum tubing, right and left specific Weight: 140 – 180 lbs Best for: light mountaineering, general use Flash: Light, designed specifically for women Fizzle: Crampon system a bit light for really steep terrain Available at: MEC
Ursus Bearpaw CANADIAN-MADE and an all around performer, this snowshoe is able to tackle just about any conditions. The deck of the snowshoe is a little larger than most. This enables it to provide superior flotation in powder deep – enough to give many other snowshoes a hard time. The decking material (nyloncored Hypalon™) is extremely light; together with the aircraftgrade aluminum tubing frame, it gives you an extremely light shoe capable of supporting very heavy loads. The crampon system on the shoe is robust with a series of heel spikes that are able to dig into ice without any problem. Our reviewers had only one complaint about the shoe: its binding system. The straps were stiff and a little awkward to use. However, once shoes were in and the straps tightened, the binding system provided excellent support. Weight: 2.5 kilograms Binding: nylon strap Frame: aluminum tubing, right and left specific Weight: 180 lbs + Best for: mountaineering, backpacking, backcountry camping Flash: Extremely light, top notch flotation, versatile Fizzle: Binding straps a little stiff Available at: MEC
Yakima Daytripper 30 THE YAKIMA Daytripper 30 is a great general-use snowshoe available at an exceptionably affordable price. When we tested these snowshoes, we found them to be lightweight and sturdy. They were easily maneuverable up and down hills without slipping. The only undesirable detail proved to be the heel cleat; snow kept building up here and forming a hard ball. While on a long trek our reviewer was annoyed with having to continually use a pole to break off the ice block that had formed. The Daytripper utilizes a rotating pivot rod to support the binding, and it performs adequately. One bonus of the snowshoe: instead of the standard aluminum crampon system seen on most snowshoes the Daytripper features stainless steel crampons. These are less prone to wear, if you’re using the snowshoes on a trail with exposed rock. Weight: 2.2 kilograms Binding: heavy rubber straps Frame: aluminum tubing, right and left specific Weight: 200 lbs Best for: general use Flash: Stainless steel crampon, solid decking, excellent value Fizzle: Binding could use a toe strap, ice balls on heel cleat Available at: Trailhead
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
S
NOWSHOEING is a fast-growing sport. Outdoor enthusiasts are flocking to the backcountry in record numbers. Whether they head out in pursuit of a peak to conquer, or just to the backcountry for solitude and recreation, these winter explorers employ new methods to reach their winter destinations.
Traversing deep snow or groomed trails requires the right tools. But how do you know what to buy or rent? Questions assail the would-be snowshoer: Which manufacturer makes the best product? Will my boots fit? Which features best meet my needs? How large a snowshoe do I need? How does it perform in snow? How much money should I spend? You need to weigh what you need and can afford, against what is offered. With this in mind, Ottawa Outdoors Magazine decided to test “drive” some snowshoes. Our team (two men and one woman) took eight pairs of moderately-priced snowshoes to the Adirondacks in New York State (three hours from Ottawa) to hike up Mount Algonquin. Our 12-km, round trip snowshoeing adventure through the forest and mountain provided everything from rolling hills to near-vertical hiking with a mix of snow and ice. Following is our field evaluation of the equipment.
Tubbs Adventure 25 Women’s THIS IS AN excellent choice if you spend most of your outings on packed trails and gently rolling terrain. The binding adapted to plastic mountaineering boots and leather hiking boots with ease. The toe and heel crampons are positioned directly beneath the ball and heel of the foot, and provided excellent traction up, down and across moderately sloped hillsides. The small deck size of this shoe makes it ideal for moving quickly on packed trails, but it does not provide the best flotation in powder. The decking is made of Tubbs ArcTec/TriTec™ material, which is much tougher (but less supple) than most shoes. Weight: 1.8 kilograms Binding: spring-loaded, ratchet Frame: aluminum tubing, right and left specific Weight: 120 – 180 lbs Best for: light mountaineering, general use Flash: Top notch bindings, ultra light, great crampons Fizzle: Heel strap slips on some boots Available at: Expedition Shoppe
Yuba Rec. Series 10.34 THESE ARE SURE to be favorites of everyone, from winter campers to snowshoeing novices. The easy-to-use binding system gets you in and out quickly, and the huge deck provided excellent flotation in the deepest powder. The snowshoes provided the stability and traction of much more expensive snowshoes. Though I wondered if the binding system would sway while traversing, my fears were unfounded. They performed well traversing a steep hill. Weight: 2.5 kilograms Binding: strap binding Frame: aluminum tubing, non specific Weight: 180+ lbs Best for: backpacking, backcountry camping and hiking off trail in deep powder conditions. Flash: Great value, excellent flotation Fizzle: A little large – not best for small people Available at: Scouts Canada
Tubbs Altitude 25 Women’s AT FIRST GLANCE, the Tubbs Altitude 25 snowshoes are almost identical in design to the Adventure 25. However, the details set this shoe well apart. The binding is identical to the Adventure 25, with the exception of the rotating control wing, which is essentially a lateral rod connecting the binding instead of the standard tubs springloaded straps. The Altitude also has a beefed-up crampon system that provides exceptional traction on vertical terrain. The only thing lacking is a heel lifter. (Considering the “altitude” name of the snowshoe, it would have been a great addition.) The decking is made of Tubbs puncture-resistant ArcTec™ decking, which is handy if your clumsy partner steps on them with crampons. Weight: 1.8 kilograms Binding: ratchet, rotating control wing Frame: aluminum tubing Weight: 120 – 180 lbs Best for: mountaineering, general use Flash: Tough decking, excellent crampons Fizzle: Lack of a heel lifter would have made this a near perfect shoe Available at: Bushtukah
SO YOU NEED SNOWSHOES? HEAD HEAD OVER OVER TO TO ANY ANY OF OF THESE THESE LOCAL LOCAL OUTDOOR OUTDOOR GEAR GEAR STORES. STORES. THEIR THEIR FRIENDLY STAFF WILL BE ABLE FRIENDLY STAFF WILL BE ABLE TO TO SET SET YOU YOU UP UP WITH WITH ALL ALL THE THE GEAR GEAR YOU’LL NEED! YOU’LL NEED!
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Expedition Shoppe
CV Mountain Trail 9X30 THESE SHOES performed extremely well. The binding system uses two ratcheting straps. The ratchets were large enough to get open and closed while wearing wool mitts, and the heel strap was easy to tighten. The bindings are the largest we’ve seen on a snowshoe, and easily accommodate large boots with room to spare. The decking is a standard, puncture-resistant material with just the right amount of “give.” While officially called a mountain trail snowshoe, surprisingly, the heel crampon which provides some stability from lateral slippage on a traverse, was a little small and could have been beefed up a bit. The heel cleat was made entirely of plastic with only a few raised plastic bumps. When they got wet, our field tester’s heel tended to slip around a bit. In all, this is a great shoe for the money. It’s light, and the bindings fold flat for easy storage. CV is a company to keep an eye on. Weight: 2.1 kilograms Binding: spring-loaded, ratchet binding Frame: aluminum tubing Weight: up to 240 lbs Best for: light mountaineering, general use Flash: Canadian made, and a great alternative to the more expensive brands. Folds flat Fizzle: Plastic heel cleat, standard crampons Available at: Langford Canoe.
Getting started with x-country skis
Photo by National Capital Commission.
X-COUNTRY SKIING
The Basics
By David McMahon and
C
lean, oxygenated air, scented with pine, beckons you into snow-hushed woods for play, health, fitness and adventure. No wonder Nordic skiing is the top family winter activity in Canada. What does it take to get involved? A modest investment and almost no commitment. Pick a nice day when you have plenty of time and no pressing engagements. Choose a trail well within your abilities. Plan to take twice as long completing the return leg of your journey. Carry food, water and an extra layer of clothing in a small backpack. Then, set yourself free. Cross-country skiing comes in two basic flavours: classic stride and skiskating. Classic technique involves gliding skis in parallel along a track. Ski-skating is faster and more challenging. It requires a wide, groomed trail, longer poles and slightly shorter skis. We’ll discuss specific techniques in a moment.
EQUIPMENT
Cross-country ski gear experienced a quiet revolution in the last decade. Today’s equipment rivals the stability of alpine gear, with significantly better glide and prices. Choose poles of shoulder height for classic skiing, or chin-to-nose height for skating. For back-country skiing, select wider pole baskets than those designed for groomed trails. If you’re a beginner, don’t spend more than $50 on poles.
Choose a ski boot with as much care as you would a winter walking boot. For both classic and skating, I recommend a high-cut style that comes above the ankles. Make sure your boots are comfortable and supportive. Expect to pay about $150 for boots. Modern binding systems offer great control and stability. Antiquated, three-pin bindings have given way to designs that connect your entire boot to the ski, yet allow your heel to rise free. Prices for bindings range from $50 to $80. Lightweight synthetics have replaced wood in skis. Wider crosscountry skis provide buoyancy in deep, unpacked snow, whereas narrower racing skis (for both skating and classic) are designed for groomed trails. Moderate, light, back-country touring models are ideal for most people. Expect to pay $150 for a pair of new, entry-level skis. Your weight, not your height, will determine the proper ski size. Staff at a local ski store will help you measure how much you compress the ski’s camber, and ascertain the best pair for you. Most men ski on 190-195 centimetre (cm) skis for skating, while women generally use 180-190 cm. Add five cm for classic skiing. Waxless skis have fish-scale shaped ridges on the running area underneath your ski, to provide momentary grip when you push on the snow. Grip wax performs the same function on waxable skis, which glide much faster than fish-scaled models.
PREPARATION AND WAX
Never wax fish-scaled skis. For classic skiing on waxable skis, apply paraffin-based grip wax, using quick chalking motions, underneath the ski kick zone. (That’s usually the middle third of your ski.) Rub it in with a cork. You won’t need grip wax for skating. Instead, apply a glide wax to the entire ski base. First, melt it on with a warm iron, and then scrape off the excess. You’ll probably want to ask your shop staff to demonstrate this waxing technique before you try it. How will you know which wax to use? Each kind is labelled for its appropriate temperature and humidity. Keep your selection simple, and use waxes as recommended on the package.
WHERE TO SHOP
Visit a cross-country ski shop offering good quality products, pricing, and service. A sales professional can help you choose the right equipment for you. He or she can also explain the technology and its care. Usually such shops offer complete packages: skis, boots, poles, clothing, accessories, wax and even lessons, videos, books, maps and local trail conditions.
WHAT TO WEAR
Your clothing needs to work for you and feel comfortable. Those woollen www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
knickers and long, colourful socks are best left in the retro closet. Jeans are definitely out! The layered look is in. Layers allow you to dress for warmth and regulate your temperature more easily. Start with long underwear made from synthetic fabrics, such as polypropylene, to wick moisture away from your skin. Wind-proof briefs will save you lots of grief. Choose a middle layer of medium thickness for your upper body. Wool or synthetic fabrics will serve you best. Avoid cotton, because it holds moisture and will make you cold. Your outer layer should offer resistance to wind and snow, and allow body moisture to escape. Lycra™ or Gortex™ are great choices here. Mitts are warmer, but gloves offer better feel and control of your poles. Wear a hat – not just because your mother told you to, but because body heat escapes most quickly from the top of your head. A thin balaclava underneath your toque will protect your face and ears from the wind. Sunglasses offering UVA and UVB protection are important: they thwart snow blindness and keep your eyes from watering in cold wind.
SKI TIPS
Technique can make the difference between a fun outing and a frustrating one. All skiing techniques share the same fundamentals: decisive weight transfer forward onto a flat gliding ski, with coordinated, balanced and efficient movement. Think of techniques as different gears for varied terrain and conditions. The most familiar Nordic technique is the diagonal stride, also called classic or traditional technique. Most people think of it as walking on skis – it evolves into a stride and glide. (Apologies to classic aficionados for this overly simple explanation.) Diagonal stride was developed for trails offering a single pair of tracks; your skis glide in parallel along them. For traction, you’ll need good grip under the kick zone of a properly cambered ski. The wax’s job is to adhere to the snow for a moment, stopping long enough for you to use it as a platform to transfer your weight forward onto the other ski. www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
The movement involves a push from one ski, weight transfer, glide onto the other ski and then recover. The motion is supported by opposite arm poling. Your arms work individually and alternately with your legs. When instructors speak of a “kick” in diagonal stride, it’s not a true kick. You want to momentarily compress your ski onto the snow, obtain sufficient grip to pull back with your ski and move your body forward of your position. The snow should remain on the ground as your body glides over it. Ski-skating is the choice of most “freestyle” racers today. It combines double poling action of your arms with decisive weight shift, to propel you forward onto a balanced and flat ski. Skating is significantly swifter than diagonal stride but takes more effort to begin. It’s well suited to a fit person looking for a good workout. Half a dozen skating techniques exist to befuddle beginners.
STEP ONE: Opposite arm and leg stride up hill
REFERENCE MATERIALS
A magazine, book or video can provide off-snow motivation, and help you brush up on technique or delve into new information on physical conditioning. Check out www.xczone.com for information on new products about modern cross-country skiing.
WHERE TO SKI
This year, more cross-country skis appeared under Christmas trees in Ottawa than under those anywhere else in North America. Why? The range of trails here is phenomenal. Your destination awaits, starting from your doorstep. Once you outgrow your backyard, visit one of the National Capital’s cool urban ski sites: Mooney’s Bay (public lessons available); Beaverbrook/Kanata Lakes; Shirley’s Bay; Stony Swamp; Pinhey Forest; Pine Grove; Mer Bleue; Larose Forest; Gatineau Park (adult ski camps available). Gatineau Park doesn’t really qualify as an urban ski centre, and there’s a small fee for using its trails, but there you’ll find exceptional variety, beautiful scenery, good trail grooming and comfortable, heated huts to picnic in. For more information, contact the Gatineau Park Visitors’ Centre at (819) 827-2020.
STEP TWO: Compress ski onto snow
STEP THREE: Shift weight decisively onto forward
STEP ONE: In skating, initial propulsion comes from a decisive weight transfer on to a flat glide ski, assisted by a first phase of the double poling motion, and an unweighted push of your free leg.
CLUBS AND GROUPS
You can book ski lessons and even camps through many ski specialty shops, resorts or at most ski centres. For long-term motivation and encouragement, join a club or training group: Chelsea XC; Skinook; Xcottawa; Orleans Nordic Ski Club; Mississippi Valley Ski Club (MSVC); Biathlon Bandits; Ottawa Bicycle Club;
STEP TWO: The second propulsive phase occurs when your hips, arms and trailing free leg recover forward together. Your weight is shifted onto the free leg as it continues past your centre of gravity and forward onto the snow.
Nakkertok; RA Ski Club; Club Vertige; Ottawa Hostel Outdoor Club; Les Renards Blancs; Fastrak XC; Lowney Lake Nordic Ski Club. Cross-country skiing offers something for everyone, from back-country adventure and heavy workouts, to a leisurely stroll in the park. Taste the different flavours of cross-country skiing this winter. Make the most of Ottawa’s feast for your senses.
STEP THREE: Upper body motion for skating is the same as it is in double poling. Your weight drives the poles through the motion, using muscles in the stomach, back, shoulder and arms progressively. Hold your arms shoulder-width apart and bent 90 degrees. The poling action is a —David McMahon is a former National Biathlon Champion, and was a personal coach at the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympics. Lise Meloche is a World Cup Gold Medalist and two-time Olympic Biathlete. The pair operates a sports film studio, XCZONE.TV
Stargazing By Brian McCullough
A
sk just about anyone and they’ll tell you one thing’s for sure: You can see a lot more stars in winter than you can in summer! Whether or not this is technically correct is beside the point. The fact is, the winter sky seems to have cornered the market on some of the galaxy’s brightest stars. The most famous constellation of winter has to be Orion, the Hunter. Look toward the east on a mid-winter’s eve and your eye can’t help but be drawn to the three stars in a short row that form Orion’s
belt. It is actually quite rare to see such a straight line of stars anywhere in the sky, especially ones so bright. Considering they are well over a thousand light-years away from us, imagine how blinding they would be if they were as close as our Sun, which is just eight light-minutes away from Earth. Can you see a faint, fuzzy object below the stars of Orion’s belt? That’s the Great Orion Nebula, a massive starforming region more than 1,500 light-years away. It is interesting to think that our own Sun began life in a cradle of hydrogen gas very much
like this nearly five billion years ago. Check the nebula out in binoculars or a small telescope and enjoy its wispy beauty. Saturn is easily visible near Orion these days, so be sure to pick up the latest issue of SkyNews magazine for details on how to locate the ringed planet among the
constellations of winter. Orion will point the way. Clear skies and happy observing! — Brian McCullough is an Ottawa area astronomy educator. To learn more, contact the Mill of Kintail (256-3610), the Association for Bright Children (www.abcottawa.cyberus. ca), and see the Spring 2003 edition of the City of Ottawa (South) Activity Guide.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Photo by Brian McCullough.
Orion — Guardian of the Winter Sky
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Let’s go back-country The right ski for your next outing
T
HE CANOE is stowed high and dry. My hiking boots hang from a nail on the basement wall. I’m itching to get into the wilderness, but spring won’t poke her nose around here for months. What’s to do? Back-country skiing! Early on a Saturday the snow squeaks underfoot as we step into our bindings. Breath lingers in misty puffs. For six or eight hours we’ll venture through terrain that’s otherwise inaccessible. Returning tired as evening descends, we’ll drive to a local eatery, feast on a hardy meal and wash it down with fine ale or a bottle of Shiraz. Back-country trips allow skiers to explore untrodden terrain. Veteran skiers move off familiar trails, taking new routes to old destinations. Telemarkers climb for hours to oases of fresh powder. Carving virgin turns down a slope where no-one’s skied before – the adrenaline rushes. Skiing in the back-country can also involve multi-day treks. Adventurous souls fill a pack with essentials for overnight stays in a hut or tent, strap on skis and hit the trail. You’ll return from an overnight trip with memories of the best dinner you ever cooked – by candle light, with basic ingredients in the most rudimentary conditions. Left behind are all those modern conveniences on which we all depend 20 OTTAWA WINTER
OUTDOORS
so heavily. No electric stove, no stereo or TV playing in the background and no telephone. Instead, the silent music of stars, the glow of candles, and not a bug in sight. To access the back-country you won’t need a lot of special equipment or experience. If you plan a trek off the well-travelled trail or an overnight stay in the woods, however, you’ll need map-reading skills and sound knowledge of winter survival techniques. Back-country skiing comes in three varieties: classic, touring and telemarking. For a normal day’s outing, your daypack for any variety of back-country skiing should include: • Your lunch • A power bar • Water • Ski wax • A first aid kit • An extra fleece jacket on cold days or longer outings • A trail map and compass. For longer adventures, make sure to pack appropriately. Effective planning is essential for multi-day adventures in winter. Your survival depends on it. Always check the weather before heading out on the trail. Know the territory you’re about to enter, and always let friends or family know where you are going.
Photo by National Capital Commission.
By By Stephen Stephen Seabrook Seabrook
CLASSIC SKIING
The best-known cross-country style, classic skis are narrow and used on groomed tracks. For a detailed look at classic technique and equipment, see “x-country skiing: the basics,” on page 16. In the back-country, classic skis are well-suited only to day outings on groomed trails. You’ll find excellent back-country trails (among the world’s best) in Gatineau Park. Visit www.capcan.ca/gatineau for more details. Farther afield, the Laurentian Mountains are renowned for great trail systems, as well as outstanding cuisine and nightlife. Check www.canadatrails.ca/xc_ ski/xc_ qc.html for details.
ROSSIGNOL X-TOUR TRACK • ideal for in-track use, but
won’t back down from packed snowmobile trails • The Rossitop Extended Edge gives the ski slicing power on downhill turns and step
www.OttawaOutdoors. ca
TOURING
While similar to equipment for classic skiing, touring gear allows skiers to leave the groomed trails and access many kinds of terrain. Its wider skis and stiffer boots provide more stability on uneven tracks. Giving you greater floatation when you’re breaking trails in deep snow, touring gear is ideal for the back-country. The added stability makes touring equipment excellent for beginner skiers, whether they plan to bushwhack or use groomed trails. Prices for a touring outfit compare to those for classic ski gear. The Trans-Canada Trail System, a summer walking trail, becomes a top notch cross-country skiing trail in winter. Although some sections are groomed, once you leave the urban area, the trail is mainly ungroomed and unsupervised. These trails are flat and great for all levels of ability. The Rideau Trail extends between Ottawa and Kingston. Maps are available in many local outdoor shops. Want a different adventure? The Adirondacks (Lake Placid region) offer an excellent network of trails with huts for overnight stays and winter camping areas. It’s also possible to ski from one Bed-and-Breakfast spot to the next, on a two- or three-day excursion. Pack enough gear and snacks for a day’s skiing, and let your B&B hosts take care of your meals and sleeping arrangements. Most will also provide a day lunch if you ask ahead.
TELEMARK
A telemark is a turn in which the skier bends both knees, tucking one knee behind the other. Telemark equipment allows the user to go virtually anywhere and ski on almost any snow. The gear is similar to that for touring and classic skiing, but incorporates features from alpine ski gear. Touring boots have moved from traditional leather to plastics, more in the style of alpine boots, but flexing at the toe
and ankle (bindings leave the heel free to move up and down). Telemark skis look similar to alpine skis, incorporating their hour-glass design with lightweight materials. When you plan a telemark ski outing in the back-country, pay careful attention to the weight you’ll carry. If you’re traversing for hours, the weight of extra equipment will bog you down. If you are packing for
FISCHER BC COUNTRY CROWN • Narrow waisted and superb for touring! On or off groomed trails. • Featuring the Single/Double Crown climbing system. • With AirChannel and the all-purpose Ultra Tuning finish.
www. OttawaOutdoors.ca
OTTAWA
OUTDOORS
WINTER 21
—Stephen Seabrook is an avid outdoor enthusiast who has back-country skied all over the region...and he is a Sagitarius. :)
K2 SUPER STINX SKIS If you’re a tele-skier who likes to switch from the lifts to the backcountry from one run to the next, the Super Stinx might be your ticket to ride. It’s designed for aggressive telemark skiers who like to carve turns on hardpack as well as through deep pow. • Moderate, round flex designed for aggressive or heavier skiers. • Strong rebound with a wood core. • Drilled tip for rigging as an emergency sled. • Notched tail to secure climbing skins. • Dimensions are 107 – 70 - 97mm (tip – waist – tail), delivering both crud-bustin’ turns and power carves on-piste. • Mount as telemark skis
ESSENTIAL COOL GEAR
a multi-day trip, start counting ounces instead of pounds. For any off-piste (off-trail) adventure, always be prepared. Plan carefully. Check the weather. Know your trail. Tell a friend where you’re going. To your standard pack described above, and overnight gear if applicable, add the following items for an off-trail telemark expedition: • Extra pair of gloves • Avalanche transceiver, shovel, and snow probe • Goggles and/or sun glasses. With its hardwood forests, the Ottawa region is not known for off-piste telemark skiing. The densely wooded slopes make for very tight telemark turns. There are, however, some hidden gems. Deep in Gatineau Park, power lines run down the sides of consistently steep hills. They’re a joy to play in after a snow storm. Outside of Ottawa, you’ll find excellent opportunities for telemark skiing in the Presidential Range, White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire. The Appalachian Club and the U.S. Forest Service maintain trails, an over-night cabin, and camping shelters throughout the area. There is also outstanding terrain throughout the Appalachians, Adirondacks and Laurentians. Grab a map and a friend, and start the adventure!
THE LEKI MAKALU ANTISHOCK TREKKING POLE • The ErgoSoft grip on the
Makalu Antishock is a super comfortable straight rubber grip with a slightly padded, secure strap system. • This 3-section pole compacts as small as 28” and extends to 56”. • The core of this pole is LEKI’s Triple Spring System that allows the Antishock System to be set individually in three stages. The advantage is that
MEC VECTOR JACKET WOMEN’S • The nylon face fabric uses
a heavier, more abrasionresistant weave at the shoulders, arms, and underarm zipper inserts. • A lighter, tear-resistant ripstop weave is used elsewhere. • Nylon taffeta lining in the arms and body front lets you slip the jacket on easily. • Polyester mesh lining in the upper back and shoulders enhances breathability. • The heat- and moistureventing Uretek underarm zippers are flap-free to allow easy adjustment. As no Velcro® is used, the underarm zips don’t spontaneously reseal. (In very wet weather, position the sliders directly beneath your armpits to ensure they stay watertight.) • Cut just below hip-length. • Roomy enough to fit over heavyweight fleece. • Waist drawcord for finetuning fit. • Zip-off hood adjusts for size and has eye-level drawcords to allow unimpeded
Expedition Shoppe NALGENE KAIBAB III 3 LITRES • Back panel
constructed with PE foam and merry mesh which provides comfort and wicks moisture • Contoured, padded, merry mesh shoulder straps guarantee a comfortable fit • Duraflex hardware and polyester Nylon weave webbing provides durable and comfortable straps and buckles • Sternum Strap comfortably holds pack to body • Waist belt provides a more secure fit so pack stays in place during high activity • Evenly distributes weight of the pack for a more balanced feel • Gussett and zippered cargo pouch increases cargo capacity • BLADDER TPE – 3 Litres
ENDURANCE 3 ANTISHOCK HIKING POLE • The ultimate adjustable hiking pole! • Ergonomically designed forward angled handle keeps your wrist in a
neutral and relaxed position
• Soft foam grip below the handle makes it possible to hold the pole
lower down on traverses without adjusting the length
• “Antishock” spring system to help absorb the impact of each pole plant • Lightweight, three-section “Quick-lock” adjustability for convenient
packing
• Very strong, expedition-strength anodized aluminum tubing • Extremely durable carbide tip for use on ice or rock • Dome style baskets
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Skijoring
Photo by Wanda Purton.
Go to the dogs this winter By Cathy Brown and Wanda Purton
BARRICADING YOURSELF against Ottawa’s chilly winter results in one thing: a good dose of cabin fever. It’s true for humans and for our four-legged friends. After reaping mental and physical benefits of daily exercise in the region’s trails, parks and green spaces, it’s frustrating to become housebound for four long
T
he right kind of diversion turns frightful into delightful winter weather. Our solution to cabin fever is among the fastest-growing winter sports. It provides an entertaining alternative to “a quick walk around the block until Rover does his business.” The name of the game is skijoring. It’s guaranteed to give you rosy cheeks after a jaunt in Ottawa’s winter wonderland.
SKIWHAT?
A Scandinavian sport, skijoring is Norwegian for ski-driving. So many Scandinavian women appear stunningly gorgeous that we figured, “Maybe their secret is in the skijoring.” We decided to give it a go, and we love it! Skijoring moves both you and your dog outside to enjoy fresh air and get great exercise. It combines aspects of cross-country skiing, dogsledding and simply walking your dog. Take one cross-country skier with basic ability and equipment. Strap a skijoring belt around the hips. Add one dog that loves to run and weighs at least 12 kilograms. Dress the dog in a skijoring harness, and connect a tow rope between dog and skier. Pooch takes the lead and the pair works together, as skier glides along the trails. (Sorry, Rover doesn’t do all the work.) Most dogs enjoy the sport; they love exercise in the great outdoors, and bonding time with their owners. If www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
you skijor with friends, the dogs like socializing as well.
BEFORE YOU SAY “MUSH”
Any breed of dog weighing 12 kilos or more can learn to skijor. A vet’s clean bill of health is always a good starting point for new
activities. If your dog feels the cold, consider providing a doggie-coat. Our dogs’ paws are fine in the snow, but some owners make or purchase dog booties to keep those tender tootsies free of ice and snow. Check your ski equipment. Ensure
Ask first! Some agricultural land owners will gladly grant access to skijorers wishing to cross their land. The NCC currently does not allow skijoring on any of its lands, so get out your pen and write your Member of Parliament. Stay off trails where dogs are not allowed and make sure to abide by all municipal animal ordinances. While you could outfit yourself and your dog and simply hit the trails, a beginners’ course makes a sound investment. The safety tips alone are worth the outlay of roughly $65. “How do I teach my dog to pull?” That’s the first step a course should address. Our research led us to Liz Macfie. She provides a four-hour course including such topics as: • Preparing your dog for skijoring • Safety tips for people and pooches • Trail etiquette – for those
TAKING THE PLUNGE
On a snowy Tuesday in December, we harnessed Cathy’s dog, Immer, for our first lesson. We started with gradual steps, well-paced and planned to prepare Immer (and us) to skijor successfully. Immer loved it and so did we. By the lesson’s end, indefatigable, ever-rambunctious Immer passed-out snoring. We gloried in the rare triumph of having actually tired him out. Fresh air and beautiful trails await you and your dog. Beat cabin fever this winter: experience the quiet swishing of skis as you glide, working in tandem with your dog. Happy trails! —Cathy Brown and Wanda Purton are professional dog trainers and the owners of K-9 Common Scents, a division of S.L.R. (Search, Locate, Recover). They can be contacted at 613-760-5060.
Photo by National Capital Commission.
Photo by Wanda Purton.
that your skis have no metal edges, which could injure a passing dog if you accidentally clipped it. You’ll need three items of specialized gear. Skijor belts come in different styles. One variety includes loops to prevent it from riding up. Your dog needs a properly-fitting harness. A skijoring tow line attaches you to your dog. Made with elastic bungee material, it absorbs the shock from starting and any bumps you encounter on the trail. If you plan to run two dogs side-by-side, purchase a Y-shaped tow line. You’ll also need water containers for you and Rover. We recommend no more than 125 mL of warm water per hour for your pup. Keep the water next to your body to maintain its temperature. Choose your terrain carefully. You’ll enjoy trails cleared of rocks, brush and trees. Find out where skijoring is permitted near you.
impromptu meetings with snow-mobiles, dogsledders and other skijorers. Located just north of North Gower, Liz also organizes skijoring outings – informal gatherings that include great fun and camaraderie as well as opportunities to hone your skill. E-mail Liz at awarenesspet@sympatico.ca or call her for information at (613) 489-4086. Assuming you already own crosscountry skis and a dog, plan to invest about $75 for special equipment and $65 for lessons.
Illustration by Lisa Kinloch and Francois Daigle.
SNOWBOARDING
SNOWBOARDING: It’s more than just calling all of your friends “Dude!” By Chris Lindsay
to most people. After rolling around in the snow on a slope for a day or two (acquiring a few bruises on your rear end), you’ll be ready to tackle most hills in our area. Remember when you were a kid, and encountered a patch of ice? You raced toward it, then slid across the glistening surface with one foot extended in front of the other. This provided a comfortable and natural balancing stance. On a snowboard, you assume a nearlyidentical stance. Your challenge involves learning to maintain it on a hill. Before rushing out like a fanatic to get equipped, think about your requirements. Always start with proper fitting boots. They should fit snugly, and allow a little bit of toe wiggle. Sloppily fitting boots breed frustration; they prevent you from feeling con- nected to your board edges when making turns. Adjust your bindings properly for your
LOOKING FOR AN EXCITING NEW WAY TO ENJOY WINTER? Snowboarding provides a red-hot adrenaline rush. And Ottawa has an abundance of ski areas perfect for the sport. Linking your first turn to your next one or making it down the run without bailing out are small feats, but they provide huge amounts of satisfaction to beginning snowboarders. Balance is the key. Once you achieve balance – and it won’t take long – you’ll never look back. Snowboarding comes relatively easily Louis Garneau “Rider” Helmet. Retail: $62 This multi-impact helmet offers ventilation, and removable ear flaps for comfort all season long.
boots. Many people overlook this vital point, but when boots and bindings work together as they should, your overall control will improve dramatically. Finally… the board itself. The stiffer the board, the more awkward it will feel at slower speeds. Choose a board suited to your ability and weight – one that allows easy weight transfer from toe to heel. Don’t be too eager to let the snowboarding animal loose. It may take some time to harness your new sense of aggression towards the mountain. Just enjoy the thrill of carving ever-tighter turns down the hill. Ask a certified instructor to give you some tips. (He or she will insist that you wear a helmet and wrist guards.) In no time you’ll be calling all your friends “Dude.” —Chris Lindsay is an avid outdoor enthusiast and staff member of Bustukah.
Scott “Icon” Goggles. Retail: $54 These goggles have a dual lens with anti-fog treatment, and a wrap design that contours to the face. They’re also helmet-compatible. K2 “Gamma” Snowboard. Retail: $449 Built with an ultralight wood core and a deep sidecut, this board provides snappy, edge-to-edge control. Carbon torsion forks give strong and confident turns in all snow conditions.
686 “Smarty Flex Hooded” Jacket. Retail: $379 A fully waterproof/breathable jacket with “Smarty technology” zip-in liner, and pit zippers to adapt to any environment. Drop “Boomer 2” Mitts. Retail: $44 These mitts have removable fleece gloves, and water resistant outer shells. Dakine Wrist Guards. Retail: $19 An essential piece of equipment for beginners, these wrist guards have a low profile design that fits easily under any mitt or glove.
Bushtukah Board Bag. Retail $24 A simple bag you can store your gear in, its padded ends offer good protection.
Burton “Tether Lock.” Retail: $14.95 There’s no better way to keep your investment safe. This pocket design is long enough to lock your board to anything, and it doubles as a luggage lock.
RC Sport “Rat Crapper” Multi-tool. Retail: $16 This multi-tool is a pocket ratchet with enough bits to fit almost any binding. Keep one in your jacket pocket for onhill adjustments.
Northwave “Freedom” Boots. Retail: $229 An excellent Italianmade boot for the “weekend warrior,” it has lace-up liners for a precision fit, and dual density soles for support. www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Photo by Ray Pilon.
Westbeach ‘York Pant’ Retail: $199 Roomy water-resistant pant with brushed fleece seat for chair warmth. Equipped with cargo pockets large enough for an on-hill snack or binding tool/lock.
K2 “V9 Plasma” Bindings. Retail: $199 A stiff highback gives effortless heel side response; an adjustable toe ramp enables excellent toeside leverage.
You’ll find an astonishing selection By Kevin Pidgeon
A
LPINE SKIING has never been more popular than it is today. Skiers can do anything from pure carve (the closest to the classic idea of alpine skiing) to riding pipe, free-riding, racing skiercross or racing. There are new side cuts and technologies to match each of these skiing categories, so it’s easier than ever to find a ski that’ll satisfy your wants and needs. The newest and most popular category in skiing today is skiercross, first made popular as a no-holds barred racing event in the X Games. Salomon was the first company to build skis for this category, with their Crossmax series. Here’s the good news for would-be skiercrossers: the choice this year is excellent! Rossignol has introduced its RPM series; Volkl has introduced their T50 “5 star” and “4 star” models, as well as many other models from all of the brands. This year the category is red hot. The “twin tip” category is also very popular. Whether it’s in the pipe or out on the open terrain, these guys and girls get air! This category has exploded from just the Salomon 1080 model from a couple of years ago, to over 30 models this season. One company (Line Skis) concentrates almost exclusively on twin tip skis. Other big names to watch out for in twin tips include: the Dynastar concept series; the Rossignol Scratch series; Volkl v.ski.com series; and the Johnny Mosley, inspired Head Mad-Trix twin tip skis. The top Mad-Trix model is unique. Its binding can be turned around through the use of a reversible plate between the ski and the binding. Depending on which way you set it, the skis behave as big mountain skis or true twin tips. The pure carve category is by far
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
the largest category today. Super side-cut technology (or shaped skis) has evolved to allow more recreational skiers to achieve that perfect carved turn more than ever before. These skis are very different from the skis on which most of us grew up. They’re shorter, are easier to initiate a turn, carve deeper, and generally make you feel like a better skier than you are. Most companies have been working hard to give a wide offering this year for avid carving enthusiasts. From bases to cores, caps and even external vibration dampeners, these skis have all the bells and whistles to make your next ski day the best one ever. Free-ride skis originated in the Canadian West from unique requirements of big mountain skiers. As such, these skis perform best on a BIG mountain with a TON of loose snow. For those of us who ski mostly in Eastern Canada, skiercross skis provide similar performance on our harder snow conditions. Classic freeriders that are popular today include: the Salomon X Scream series; the Rossignol Bandit series; the Head Monsters; and the Volkl Vertigo ski series. Their wide waists offer a more solid feel underfoot. Their smaller turning radiuses make these babies perfect for the big mountain fun offered in Western Canada and parts of the U.S. At the ultimate performance level you’ll find the race category of skis. Though the majority of skiers are not racers, the technological innovations first showcased at the elite Olympic and World Cup levels typically trickle down to you and me. This means a faster, more controllable, and fun
skiing experience. Some notable technologies that have emerged in competition include: Salomon F1-inspired Monocoque technologies for top performance on hard and icy terrain; Rossignol’s Power Pulsion System that eliminates vibration; Head’s World Cup Intelligence skis that adapt their flex dynamically to skiing conditions; Atomic Beta Race Aerospeed; Fischer WC Racing; and the Volkl P50 performance series. When shopping for race skis, make sure you understand exactly what you’re getting. With the resurgence in the race category, many manufacturers have started to make ‘real’ race skis that are very close to World Cup products – unlike ‘consumer’ race skis that tend to be a little more user-friendly and easier to ski on. As with any ski purchase, the trick involves finding a knowledgeable staff member in a reputable ski shop to help you choose the right ski to meet your needs. Never have skiers had a better selection than today. Take your pick, then head for the slopes for some excitement. —Kevin Pidgeon is the President of Tommy & Lefebvre – the official retailer to Alpine Canada Alpin and the Canadian Alpine Ski Team.
Photos by Tommy and Lefebvre.
DOWNHILL SKIING
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SKI:
PROFILE:
jackrabbit johanssen
The pioneer of our x-country trails By Melanie Brown and Dave Clements
Photos by Canada Ski Museum
“LEGENDARY.” TODAY, WE apply this word to everything from ice cream to automobiles; it’s easy for us to overlook the term’s significance. But the pioneer spirit, persistence and dynamic adventures of Herman “Jackrabbit” Smith Johanssen have made him truly legendary – someone Canadians will tell stories about for generations. Arriving in North America from Norway in the early 1900s, Jackrabbit Johanssen shaped the Canadian sport of skiing. By the 1930s his contribution gained public renown when he created the Maple Leaf Trail, running from Ste. Agathe to Shawbridge.
But that was just the beginning of a story that, like all legends, mixes truth and something more. In fact Jackrabbit’s passion for life, skiing and the outdoors were responsible for the birth and growth of skiing in Eastern Canada. One of Canada’s great skiing pioneers, he remained dedicated to the sport throughout his 112-year life – a phenomenal ambassador for the winter outdoors. Why the nickname “Jackrabbit?” Johanssen met many Cree people during his ski trips through the Canadian wilderness. He respected their resilience and the way native people cherished nature. The respect was mutual, and the Cree gave him the honorary title “Okamacum Wapooes” (Chief Jackrabbit), because of his speed as he traveled through the bush on skis. In his youth, Jackrabbit trained as a mechanical engineer. When he settled in Cleveland, selling heavy machinery, his work provided many opportunities to travel around North America, and spend time outside. In 1922 he went into business for himself as a manufacturer’s agent, and opened an office in Montreal. On weekends, he traveled 200 kilometres home to his family in Lake Placid. In 1928, Jackrabbit’s family moved to Montreal. They soon discovered
Canadian Pacific Railway snow trains travelling into the Laurentians; the family spent many weekend ski trips at St. Sauveur or at the Laurentian Lodge Club in Shawbridge. The 1930s proved bittersweet for Jackrabbit and his family. The Depression brought unemployment to Johanssen, but that made more time to ski. Taking advantage of the situation, Jackrabbit encouraged his family to embrace a new life in Shawbridge. “What a relief not to have to go to the office everyday,” he noted at the time, “to struggle in that depressing atmosphere looking for business that no longer exists! Up here I can fill my lungs with good fresh air, and make a track in fresh snow over the hills. I can hunt, and I can fish in season, and I can always find some kind of work to keep bread in our mouths.” Jackrabbit began a new life in the wilderness, skiing around the Laurentians, and cutting new ski trails for various inns. And he envisioned a trail system linking local inns, attracting visitors and business to the region. Jackrabbit believed ski sports would generate significant revenue. Convincing government to finance development projects proved his biggest challenge. Despite his best efforts, the government invested very little financial support. Undaunted, Jackrabbit and a core of volunteers www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
continued building his trail system. His desire to have a safe, organized network led to one of his most cherished legacies: the Maple Leaf Trail. In 1939, the Imperial Tobacco Company asked Jackrabbit to produce a map of the ski trails he knew so well. The Sweet Caporal Skier’s Book soon rolled off the press and into the hands of enthusiastic skiers. Jackrabbit’s love of skiing extended to downhill as well. In fact, his knowledge and trail-blazing attitude helped develop downhill racing. In 1930, Jackrabbit, with Harry Pangman, Stirling Maxwell and Neil Stewart, climbed to the top of Mont Tremblant and “bushwacked” a descent of the mountain. When the Ski Club of Great Britain sought a location to hold the first Canadian Kandahar Downhill race in 1932, people remembered their successful run down the slopes. With Tremblant the designated site, Jackrabbit was chosen as forerunner of the race. He descended the moun-
tain first and kept time at the bottom, as racers made their way down. With no set trail around trees and boulders, George Jost completed the run fastest, in 15 minutes and two seconds. Perhaps Jackrabbit’s most important gift to skiing was his infectious enthusiasm for the Canadian wilderness. He encouraged anyone to spend a day outdoors in the fresh air. Often sought as a ski guide for visitors to the region, he happily complied, declining fees. “Why should I take money for something I love to do?” he said. “This is a joy I can share with others, without it costing me a cent. There is a great deal I can’t afford to do these days. But a love of skiing is something I can give.…” In 1972, Jackrabbit Johanssen www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
received two national awards: the Order of Canada, and Norway’s Order of Olav. He died in 1987 and is cherished by both nations. Skiers today still share memories of Jackrabbit Johanssen. Several people tell the story how Jackrabbit – twice as old as they were – sped by them during the Canadian Ski Marathon! A pioneer, an athlete, an adventurer. Along with his contribution to a national sport, these make him a Canadian legend. Want to read more about this extraordinary Canadian? Check out his biography entitled, The Legendary Jackrabbit Johannsen, by Alice Johanssen (McGill University Press, 1993). —Melanie Brown and Dave Clements are avid skiers and affiliated with the Canadian Ski Museum.
JACKRABBIT SKI PROGRAM: IT’S CHANGING The Jackrabbit ski program (named after “Jackrabbit” Johannsen) helps novices take their first tentative steps on skis, focuses them on developing technical skills, and introduces healthy competition to children. Recently, organizers have restructured the program to improve its effectiveness. The revised program covers all the important techniques and skills components: safety and etiquette, waxing, nutrition, equipment, and natural environment, as well as fitness knowledge and competition. For more information about the
Would you like ice with that?
All you’ll need to know to see if this demanding sport is for you. By Andrew Miles
Only the crampons and my two ice tools, both of which were planted into the ice above my head, supported me from an awful fall. Gingerly, I tugged the right-handed tool from the ice, and carefully used the pick to chip away a bit of ice. After planting the tool in the wall again, I reached down, took an ice screw from my belt, and carefully placed it in the opening, turning it until it bit into the surface. With my free hand wielding a hammer, I slammed it into place. In moments a carabiner was clipped through the eye of the screw, and a rope slipped into position, ready to support my 175 lb frame. Before trusting it with my full weight, I tugged hard on the ice screw – a safety measure. Suddenly, a large dinner plate size sheet of ice broke away with the screw, almost ripping me off my precarious perch. Adrenaline soared with my fear. Like my father before me, I’ve been a mountain guide most of my life. I learned the craft as a teenager on the icy highland slopes of Scotland. I treasure fond memories of climbing classic ice routes such as Orion Face Direct on Ben Nevis, and Sticil Face on Shelterstone Crag above
Loch Avon. When people discover your passion for ice climbing, they usually think you’re a brick short of a full load. “Ice is for pouring whiskey on,” you’ll hear. But they’re missing a great adventure. Strange as the sport appears to some, it has become one of winter’s trendiest activities. Timid souls who have never ventured upon ice except in the horizontal plain will never understand the passion that consumes those who pursue this unique sport. Nevertheless, ice climbing involves serious hazards. It can result in severe injury or death, as it almost did for me on Monch’s Nollen Step. The ice and rock climbing environment is filled with dangers beyond human control. Falling rocks and ice obey few rules. The structure of ice – like snow – changes as it is exposed to different environmental conditions. It may become brittle and snap easily from constant melting and freezing, or weaken as conditions warm. All participants in these activities must assume responsibility for themselves, their safety and their actions. No magazine article (this one included) is a manual for basic ice climbing. Nothing substitutes for
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Photo by Mike Beedell.
IF I FELL NOW I would tumble more than 1,000 metres – over a kilometer – before hitting the rocks below. I pressed myself closer to the vertical wall of ice and kicked my left foot crampon deeper into the ice of Nollen Step, on Switzerland’s Monch Mountain.
proper training and instruction. If you’re still interested in ice climbing despite the risks, keep this in mind… ice climbing requires a combination of physical strength, mental focus and skill. To participate in the sport, you’ll need to be in good physical condition. If the only ice you have encountered lately floats in your scotch as you recline on a sofa, you probably need to consider strength and cardio-vascular (aerobic) training. The secret to safe and enjoyable ice climbing is preparing before you begin. Professional training and good gear can help you achieve this.
DOLLARS AND SENSE
Ice climbing gear can be very expensive. If you’re like me, and enjoy living and breathing, you’ll only trust your life to the best. Equipping yourself can cost between $1,500 and $2,000. Ice tools alone can set you back $600. So before you get a second mortgage on your home, invest in ice climbing lessons with a professional guide; usually, he or she will supply your gear for the adventure. If you decide to hire a guide, find an instructor from the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG). These guides and instructors are trained, examined and certified to the highest standard in Canada by an independent, internationally recognized body. Check out their web site at: www.acmg.ca. Ice climbers need special clothes and tools – the most important being durable, warm clothing. Your climbing clothes should be loose and layered, and include thermal underwear, a fleece or wool shirt, and a windproof and waterproof jacket. Warm, thick socks are critical, as are a hat and gloves with reinforced grips to hold ice tools. Ice climbing requires specially designed boots with a shank – a rigid plate that can run the length of the sole. The rigid sole is required when standing in crampons (spikes that fit on to the bottom of your boot) on a vertical ice face. Gaiters are worn over the tops of the boots to keep snow from getting inside.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Plastic boots provide greater warmth and dryness than leather ones. Plastic boots generally have grooves in the toes and heels for step-in crampons. The rigid structure of plastic boots makes them well suited to vertical ice climbing, especially front-pointing technique. (Front pointing technique involves the climber kicking the spikes on the toe of the crampon into the ice to gain a foothold.) The structure of leather mountaineering boots is much more flexible than plastic boots. Although they are generally more comfortable, they do not provide the same level of support on steep, technically demanding (called “technical”) ice. Ice climbers use some equipment that rock climbers don’t. These include ice climbing tools, crampons, and ice screws and hooks (long threaded tubes that are hammered or screwed into the ice to form an anchor point for protection). When ice tools are mentioned, some people imagine long mountaineering axes generally used for walking on low angle ice or snow. Mountaineering axes are typically between 65 cm and 90 cm long. But ice climbing requires a pair of shorter tools for steep technical ice routes. Ice tools are between 45 cm and 55 cm long. The two short tools both have picks and spikes. What’s the difference? One tool has a hammer for driving in ice screws, while the other has an adze. An adze is a shovel-shaped head designed for clearing away ice before placing ice screws. You can also use it for chopping steps or belay ledges. Many axes available today have
interchangeable (or modular) picks, adzes and hammers. Climbers use the spike at the bottom of the shaft for plunging the tool into ice or snow. It makes a good anchor. Ice axes generally have a hole in the center of the head for attaching carabiners and webbing for use as a snow anchor. The hole is also used for hitching a wrist leash in case the axe is dropped. Of course, if you fall, you’ll have some very sharp objects flying around your head. Frequently, climbers find lots of rock along their ice route. When this occurs, climbers use ice tools to grip the rock. This technique is known as “dry tooling.” You can place the pick in a crack or torque the hammer head into a rock feature, and then work your
way up with the tools as you would if they were in ice. Some hammer heads are even designed with different angles on each side to fit into various sized cracks, like a cam or chock. Okay, we’ve thought about tools for using with your hands, now it’s time to think about feet. Crampons are designed to allow climbers’ feet to grip hard snow slopes or vertical ice. Crampons are typically available in three styles: hinged, semi-rigid or rigid. Hinged crampons are best for climbing on snowfields and glaciers, as they allow the foot to flex for walking. Semi-rigid crampons give more support and are generally used for occasional vertical ice. Rigid crampons are primarily used on vertical ice. Just as in the sport of rock climbing, ice climbers place “protection” in the ice as they ascend, in case of a fall. The points of protection (or anchors) allow a climber to belay his or her climbing partner. Ice climbers use two types of anchors – natural and manmade. Natural anchors include ice columns and bollards around which webbing can be placed. The two most common types of man-made protection are ice screws and hooks. Placing ice screws is not as simple as it sounds. It takes practice to master. Imagine you are 10 metres above the ground (or 1,000!), standing on your crampons’ front points with one axe firmly planted into a vertical ice wall. With your free hand you chip away any rotten or soft ice in the spot where you want to place the screw. Once you’ve found solid ice, you create a small hole in which to set the screw. Once the screw “bites,” you rotate it with the ice tool’s pick using the eye on the hanger (an alloy ring attached to the shaft of the ice screw and used for clipping carabiners) until it is flush with the ice and pointing in the direction of pull. A tubular pound-in/ screw-out design is simply hammered into the ice. Ice hooks are similar to ice screws; they’re simply hammered into the ice. They’re designed for thin ice and mixed climbing. Although I’m only providing a very basic description how to use ice screws and hooks, it’s
critically important that you know how to correctly select and place them for rock or ice climbing.
RATING ICE CLIMBING DIFFICULTY
Once you have all the gear, it’s time to start climbing. But where do you go? If you’re new to ice climbing, don’t go anywhere without a certified instructor. Early in the season when waterfalls first freeze, the ice is thin. This makes climbing difficult. As the season progresses, the ice thickens making it easier and safer to climb. Ice also changes depending on the time of day. After a long, cold night, ice can be brittle. By mid-morning it might have changed to perfect climbing ice, and by mid-afternoon become soft and unstable. Only knowledge and experience will help you judge. A novice should never stray onto a very difficult route. Over the years, various rating systems have been developed to help climbers stay within the boundaries of safety. Rating ice is not a science, partly because ice changes constantly. The ice rating system accepted in North America has three categories: “WI” for water ice, “AI” for alpine ice, and “M” for mixed (rock and ice). Also, ice climbing routes are given a technical and commitment rating. Commitment Ratings are expressed using Roman numerals from I to VII and describe the: • Route’s length of approach • Descent • Length of climb • Objective hazards • Nature of the climb. A Commitment Rating of “I” represents a short, simple climb with easy access, no objective hazards, and an uncomplicated descent. A rating of “VII” represents a long and possibly difficult approach climb with many objective dangers; this route will be dangerous, strenuous and mentally demanding. Technical Ratings vary from 1 and 8. They describe the single most difficult section of the climb – 1 being easy (usually requiring no ice tools, only crampons), and 8 being extreme, steep, strenuous, technical and dangerous. Grades can be very
deceiving; partly because the technical difficulty of a climb depends on the ice quality. The technical rating system is subdivided further, with a plus sign added to grades 4 and above. You’ll see this when the route is more difficult than its stated numerical grade. Ice climbing routes are also given a Quality Rating using stars. If a climb has no star, it usually means that the route offers little challenge. One star represents a good climb. If you’re in the area, you should try it. Two stars represent a very good climb. This is the type of climb that is worth a journey to experience. Three stars represent an exceptional climb – a “must-do” classic.
LOCAL ICE CLIMBING CHALLENGES
Canada (the great white frozen north) contains some of the world’s best ice climbing, particularly in the Rockies. In or near our region you’ll find plenty of climbing opportunities. Eagle’s Nest Escarpment, 2 km from Calabogie Peaks Resort (less than an hour away), is a fun climb. Near Edelweiss Valley Ski area you’ll find some excellent cliffs just off chemin de la Montagne. The Luskville Falls area offers a wide range of climbs, for beginners to more advanced: • Fancy Molasses Slab • Castle Wall • Cirque • Luskville Falls • Spindrift Wall Farther afield, you’ll find the St. Lawrence Escarpment near Montreal offers challenging climbing. If you’re looking for an exciting winter sport, ice climbing could be for you. This may be the winter to seek expert training, buy some funky gear and get kicking and start swinging. — Andrew Miles is a former member of the Royal Marine Commandos, Mountain and Arctic Warfare Cadre. He lives in Ottawa.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
DOGSLEDDING
Take a glide on the wild side By Cathy Brown
D
Photos by Mike Beedell
RESSED FOR THE GREAT Canadian Artic, you stand on your dogsled runners, brake in check, clutching the sled with an iron grip. Your heart quickens as the dogs’ barking reaches a deafening pitch. They throw themselves fervently against their harness, trying to engage the sled. Straining your eyes through the glare of sun-on-snow, you watch for a cue to “release the hounds.” In your head you rehearse your instructions: this is how to use the brake, remember to keep the line taut between you and the dogs, drag your heels to control your speed, and above all, never let go of your sled!
At the signal you swallow hard, adjust your grip and release the brake. The sled jerks forward with the power of your team, unbridled and howling to catch up with the pack. Tears drizzle from your eyes as the air whips around your sunglasses. Cheeks burn in the wind and legs become shock absorbers, as runners bounce over snow and ice. You hear yourself yelling, “Woohooo!” as if to join in your team’s song. You imagine how romantic you look, whisking along snow-covered fields, surrounded by glistening trees and hills. Pondering why you waited so long to try this, you find these thoughts interrupted by a much louder inner voice: the primal one in charge of survival. You are picking up too much speed; you’re losing control. Frantically, you realize your feet are too far back on the runners. The sled skips on and off the trail like a bucking bronco. If you lift your foot to apply the brake you’ll wipe out – and then, you do. That’s how dogsledding began for me. In the first 100 metres I was scraping sunglasses off my forehead, wiping my snow-washed face, and clambering to my feet in cumbersome snow boots, trying to catch my team. Unhindered by my weight, the dogs surged forward at warp speed! www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
But the air now carried a different tune from that of the rollicking dogs: the comforting roar of a snowmobile. When it stopped alongside, I gratefully hopped on and rode to where my team waited. Our guide, James Sisttie, satisfied himself that I was okay, and installed me back on the sled. Away we tore again. What a blast! They say that after eight-to-ten kilometres, you’ll know if dogsledding is for you. Back on the track, we had smooth sailing – except for riotous laughter from Wanda, my business partner and fellow dog-lover. Mushing in my wake, she witnessed several other mishaps (all resulting from driver error). But I figure I
was the fortunate one, acquiring the additional skill of righting my sled. Wanda did not benefit from this, as she didn’t fall. Having learned similar manoeuvring techniques racing snowmobiles as a girl in Saskatchewan, Wanda sailed effortlessly through the trails with her dog team. Something to note if you like to snowmobile. Anyone who weighs at least 45 kilograms can enjoy dogsledding. The sport is not suitable for children, but it makes a great team-building event for your office group. Wanda and I had searched for a place to try it out – this far south of 60° latitude. Our quest for instruction led us to Wakefield, Quebec. The little town
has an aura about it that leaves visitors relaxed and at peace. After an appetite-inspiring day of sun and snow, Wakefield also boasts quaint spots to enjoy a superb meal by a roaring fire. (Randall, at Le Moulin, provides an unforgettable meal.) But for aspiring dogsledders, Wakefield’s main attraction is a course offered through James Sisttie’s Expéditions Radisson. Wherever you decide to tune into some “mush music,” here are a few tips from one novice to another. Dress for winter: you could be outdoors for about four hours. Warm gloves, preferably with leather grips, and a warm hat are necessities. Check ahead with your supplier – you may be able to rent proper boots and winter clothing if you’re not adequately suited. James Sisttie recommends that you talk to your supplier by phone before your adventure. Describe the kind of dogsledding experience you’re looking for. No one will have fun if an excursion is too physically demanding for someone’s abilities. So, James and his colleagues evaluate their clients’ abilities, experience and sense of adventure.
Take your cue from the dogs. Be exuberant! Our dogs were elated to run. The open, loving way they accepted us strangers gave me a lump in my throat. Humans should be so accepting. My lead dog, Hopi, was ever tolerant as I learnt the basics of sledding. I look forward to seeing her again on my next excursion. In our experience, dog sledding proved great for the soul! There’s something therapeutic about escaping the world of fast-paced stress and becoming a sort of honorary member if a wolf pack. Gliding across a wide snow-covered field, Wanda and I both felt healthier and content . . . for at least those few hours. Mom always used to say, “Leave them wanting more,” and that’s what happened to us. We were just getting started when it was time to head home. So if you check out sledding in Wakefield, give Hopi and Copper a hug and kiss from Cath. Oh . . . and hold on tight! —Cathy Brown is a co-owner of K-9 Common Scents, a dog owner and a staff writer for Ottawa Outdoors.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Leader of the pack: Wakefield’s mush-coaches
R
oughly half the dogs at Wakefield’s Expéditions Radisson have been “rescued.” James Sisttie and his wife, Lynne Bedbrook, adopt mainly huskies, acquired by people who “liked their pretty blue-eyes.” Those owners forgot to consider the kind of exercise and outdoor life huskies need to lead happy, fulfilled lives. James regales visitors with the dogs’ stories: one was found running down the middle of Carling Avenue, another ate the contents of a woman’s apartment because he never got any exercise. Lynne, a teacher and practitioner of Feldenkrais Tellington Touch, or T-Touch, is responsible for calming previously-abused dogs that need to learn to trust again. James and his right-hand man, Ed Obrecht, take care of the dogs’ physical needs and training. Together, the threesome patiently determines each dog’s needs and the best ways to nurture it. The dogs’ enclosure is spacious and meticulously clean. Each pooch appears well-groomed and hardy, and has its own house. Adolescent dogs run loosely within the enclosure, learning to socialize and finding their place within the pack. You’d be hardpressed to find such a large group of working dogs so socialized and friendly. Upon our arrival for the introductory session, called Dog Sled 101, Wanda and I received excellent care as well. Staff at the store ensured we were properly attired for dogsledding. They stock boots and other clothing for customers who need them. In our vehicle, we followed our guides a short distance to the farm, set amid beautiful, snow-covered rolling hills. There we met the pack, one by one. While it was fun meeting that many dogs, the staff had a different agenda. They were carefully assessing Wanda and me as the new “mushers.” www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
They watched how comfortable we were with the dogs, and how skilfully we moved around the enclosure. These factors dictate which team, and which position on the trail, the staff will assign to each new musher. Next, Lynne demonstrated T-touch and explained its benefits to humans and dogs. We learned how to harness a sled dog. (No, you don’t just show up and get bundled into a blanket on the sled!) When the harnesses appear, canine adrenaline kicks in. Once the dogs realize they are going on a run, their friskiness meters skyrocket. What’s it like to harness an eager sled dog? Imagine trying to bundle a threeyear-old child into a snowsuit, while, in your driveway, Santa’s sleigh waits to whisk the child on a tour over neighbourhood rooftops. Wanda and I learned three basic principles of dogsledding: • How to control speed (by dragging our heels inside the runners) • How to brake, and • Hang on tight! (The cardinal sin of dogsledding is to let go of your sled.) “Check your ego at the gate,” our
guide advised with a grin. “Have fun!” On the trails, guys at Expéditions Radisson were unbelievable. From offering fallen mushers a ride to catch up with their sleds, to providing their own warm gloves, they took great care of everyone. We were constantly encouraged to cheer on our teams. When the dogs heard us call their names, they responded with wagging tails and what I’m sure were smiles. Expect to have a wild time! The outing is exhilarating. But James,
roughly half the huskies have been rescued and are now given the active lifestyle they need. Lynne and Ed have a calming way about them. The same dogsled that first made you nervous soon feels natural in your hands. And you’ll bond incredibly fast with the dogs. Dog Sled 101 costs $150.00 per person. For more information, contact www.expeditionsradisson.ca or call (819) 459-3860.
Fun on ice and snow By Mike Lomas
S
ay “kicksled” and most people respond “Huh?” Variously described as a winter bicycle, snow scooter, dogsled without dogs, or “two parallel skis joined by a kitchen chair with handlebars,” it’s a gawkylooking, human-powered vehicle. Looks aside, the craft glides swiftly on ice or compacted snow, and can carry a passenger or gear on its neat little front seat.
F
irst developed in northern Europe more than 150 years ago, kicksleds are prevalent today in small towns of Finland, Norway and Sweden. Side streets aren’t sanded or salted there, and people use kicksleds to shop and run other errands. But mundane pursuits pale next to highly competitive racing. Kicksledding was a demonstration sport at the Lillehammer Winter Olympics in 1994. Finland even boasts a professional racing circuit. Built primarily for use on ice, the sleds rest on long, steel ice-blades. Most models come with clip-on plastic skis or snow runners to adapt them for compacted-snow surfaces. On hard, glass-like ice, the sled travels very fast, faster than most skaters. Even when the Rideau Canal’s ice has suffered overuse and developed a scruffy, scratched surface, you can still go at a pretty good clip, and outstrip most skaters. Kick-starting a kicksled isn’t rocket science. You pilot it as you would a
scooter, but you won’t need as much balance. Grip the handlebars; put one foot (bearing most of your weight) on a non-slip pad on the rear section of one blade. With your other foot, kick at the ice between the blades. Continue kicking with a repetitive, leg-swinging motion. Once you build up speed, stand with both feet on the blades and coast. Switch to kicking with the other foot to keep up your forward momentum. Steer the kicksled by twisting its handlebars in the direction you want to go. For a faster turn, drag one foot on the ice. Foot contact with the ice is even more effective if you strap a pair of steel-studded crampons on the soles of your winter boots. They also help you brake. Crampons are available for just a few dollars from kicksled retailers and stores, such as Canadian Tire. As an alternative to crampons, you could use spiked shoes designed for track, cross-country or orienteering. Kicksleds don’t do well in deep, soft snow or on steep, icy slopes. If
Photo by National Capital Commission.
KICKSLEDDING
Kicksleds kick butt
you do tackle a steep slope, remember the sled has no brakes beyond your foot dragging on the ice. Safe operation may vary depending on your weight, strength, and agility and whether you have a passenger on board. Also remember, you can’t turn as quickly as when you’re skiing. And unlike tobogganing, you can’t simply roll off if the going gets rough. You’re in a vulnerable, standing position. Start out slowly on gentle slopes, to get a feel for downhill operation. Take care on steeper surfaces. Exercise parental caution and control if your children operate a kicksled downhill. Can you mush a kicksled? It depends on your dog. A standard harness will work, but unless you’re an experienced musher with trained dogs, you’ll have limited steering ability. Donna Leaman gave up in frustration. Her family’s two-year old Labrador/Collie dog resisted attempts to train it in a kicksled harness. “His tolerance is a lot lower than www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
KICKSLED MAINTENANCE?
There is none. No waxing. No sharpening. No expensive peripheral equipment such as special boots or ski poles. No ski lift fees either! Breakage should be minimal, if any. Construction is of highstrength spring- and tube-steel and solid birch wood, with non-slip footpads on curved steel ice blades. To store a kicksled, unscrew a couple of bolts and fold it down flat. This also allows you to transport it on a car roof rack or rear bumper bike rack. Depending on how energetically you go at it, kicksleds can provide an excellent cardiovascular workout with minimum risk of injury. However, when kicksledding for the first time, take it easy! Lengthen your sessions gradually, to avoid back, hip and leg strain. The rhythmic kicking motion may look similar to skating or skiing, but it isn’t. A separate set of muscles and joints comes into play. You’ll notice the difference particularly in your hip area.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
TO BUILD OR TO BUY?
If you have skill, time, tools and workspace, you might like to make your own kicksled. These web sites offer plans, advice or materials: Canadian Tom Strang, at http://trytel.com/~tstrang/spark/ spart.html, displays excellent plans and procedures on his site. He writes that construction requires commonly available materials, ordinary tools such as saw, sander and drill, plus a “small amount of heat-forming and welding” for the runners. Your local garage might do the welding for you. A U.S. website, http://www.blackicedogsledding.com/page20.html, offers individual kicksled parts for sale. Ready-made kicksleds are priced at roughly $300. Available in a variety of sizes, including a lightweight, racing model, two brands are sold locally: the CrosSled from Norway and the ELSA from Finland. CrosSled kicksleds are available online from Norwegian-Canadian Knut Brundtland, the North American distributor/retailer. His web site, http://www.crossled.com/, provides an in-depth look at kicksleds and their users. Check out ELSA kicksleds on the manufacturer’s Finnish web site at http://www.esla.fi/indexe.htm. Locally, they’re available from: • James Sisttie at Expédition Radisson in Wakefield, Quebec (www.expeditionsradisson.com). • Kari Siirala in Carnavon, Ontario (ksiirala@halhinet.on.ca). —Mike Lomas is an avid kicksledder living in Ottawa.
• Ottawa’s Rideau Canal Skateway is 7.8 kilometres long. Stretching from the National Arts Centre to Hartwell Locks, near Carleton University campus, it makes a superb kicksledding run. • One million skaters turn out annually. • Depending on weather, skating is possible on the Skateway from the end of December to the end of February. • When you see a green flag beside the canal, the Skateway is open. A red flag indicates it is closed. (Don’t skate when it’s closed. NCC officers patrol the canal and will fine trespassers.) • The Rideau Canal Skateway started modestly in the winter of 1970/71, when men cleared the ice with shovels. A fleet of trucks and plows, accompanied by teams with augurs and pumps, keeps the ice in good condition now. • Heated change huts and toilets are located at various sites along the Skateway. • To reduce the risk of injury when you skate, wear protective gear on your wrists, elbows, knees and head. Dress warmly. • Dogs are not allowed on the Skateway. • Ottawa’s winter festival, Winterlude, runs from January 31 to February 16, 2003. • Most Winterlude activities are free of charge. For information on the Rideau Canal Skateway, visit http://www.capitaleducanada.gc.ca/winter/skateway/index_e.asp. For information on Winterlude, surf into: http://www.capcan.ca/winterlude/index_e. asp.
Photo by Allen Macartney.
ours,” she admits, adding that the people in her family enjoy kicksledding. Luise Weaver’s two hefty, black Belgian sheep dogs, a 31 kilo male and 25 kilo female, enjoy the sport together. He hitches them up to his kicksled with dog harnesses and a joiner lead, and takes them for a spin on an ice track around the lake. Ottawan François Cousineau keeps a kicksled at his family’s Gatineau cottage. He says operating the craft is intuitive. “My fourteen year old son pushes our sled with my wife on the front. We also have a 90-pound coon hound that we harness to the front.” Ottawa’s Colin Brown confesses, “I’m 75. I never did learn to skate. I tried skiing a few years ago in Calgary, and when I got up to the top of the hill, I realized I was not too sure about stopping.” But a kicksled gets him out in winter, frolicking with grandchildren. “It’s a great machine. (We use it) to get to the cottage. It’s three-quarters of a mile over a frozen lake and there’s no road in,” he says.
QUICK FACTS ON THE WORLD’S LONGEST ICE RINK
ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Lose yourself in Thailand’s paradise
Sea kayaking doesn’t get any better By Dave Stibbe
M
Y SEA KAYAK wasn’t exactly gliding gracefully through the water. Packed to the deck with camping equipment and camera gear, it also carried a load of canned “Spam” – our choice of high calorie, high protein supplement. It held enough energy to sustain us on a daily, rigorous 12-hour regimen of sea kayaking along Thailand’s incredible oceanic coastline. Dipping our paddles rhythmically in the gentle Pacific, my paddling partner, Frank Wolf, and I glided our two-person kayak slowly up the jungle peninsula of Phuket, Thailand. What a spectacular sight! On our left lay the jungle (without a trace of mankind), and on our right, an endless panorama of blue sky drifting into tranquil aquamarine sea. Distant islands dotted the horizon. The wind blew steadily against our seaward side. Along the shoreline, breakers almost one metre high crashed insistently on a nearby beach. It was going to be interesting making the 15 kilometre, open water crossing to this distant shore. Paddling into the emptiness of this tranquil water “desert,” we felt the sun beat down with apparent determination. It was hot enough for serious sunstroke. “Hey, look at us!” my adventure partner called out. “We’re like Bedouin explorers of the marine world.” He was right. Our hands were only exposed body parts. We carried about 10 litres of freshwater to wet our throats during the crossing.
Add sunglasses, bandanas that we would soak for their cooling effect, and long brimmed mesh caps and you’ve got a good picture of us coaxing our kayak through the water. Our plan: reach an island oasis that looked like one of the islands in the James Bond movie, “The Man With the Golden Gun.” Here, we planned to find a campsite. Hours drifted by in trance-like pleasure, aided by rhythmic paddling. The quiet was interrupted only by occasional water breaks and a delusional discussion about the Simpsons™. Soon, we spotted the first island monoliths. Like stone beacons with emerald green rooftop gardens, they appeared on the horizon. Distance and a blue haze obscured our view. Until we closed within one kilometre, we couldn’t know whether any particular island offered a landing beach. It seemed an eternity until we drew near enough to spy classic limestone cliff structures for which this area is famous.
“There’s the beach and our campsite,” called out Frank, excitedly. Within minutes we pulled our kayak up on the shoreline. Not far away stood a visually stunning geological feature. Small round holes – some resembling shallow caves – pockmarked the cliff. Buttresses, formed by hanging stalactites, wore their own odd pockets and protruding bulges. Surprisingly, signs of habitation were evident, even in this remote part of Thailand. A manicured path led directly into the jungle. After stretching our bodies and organizing our gear, curiosity bit hard: we headed for a quick look. The path led us beside the cliffs. Here, we came upon a row of bamboo ladders leading into large caverns about 15 metres up an even
if we wanted to join them, but we declined. We were too anxious to unpack and set up our campsite. Suddenly I realized something was terrible was wrong. My wallet and passport were missing from my waist pouch! Panicked, I started digging into the kayak, pulling out gear in a frantic search. Frank joined me for several minutes until he said, “It must be on the other island.” The thought sickened me. It was so far away. “I’ll get it,” he said, racing for the speedboats that had brought the volleyball players. “I’ll be back in a couple of hours.” A foamy froth followed behind the high-speed motorboat as it raced away. Miserable and discouraged, I set up the tent and unpacked, a sense of impending doom colouring my emotions. Darkness fell, and still Frank didn’t return, then the sound of an approaching motorboat signaled his arrival. Climbing out of the boat, Frank wore an expression of disappointment. My spirits dropped. Suddenly he flashed a grin and held my waist pouch up high. Relief flooded in. Time to celebrate! Later, over several beers, Frank told his interesting story. The speed-boat driver refused to get closer than 1/4 kilometer to the island
despite any encouragement from Frank. “No go! Bang, bang! Kill, kill!” was all he repeated, with a frightened look on his face, shaking his head. Finally, Frank dove over the side of the boat and swam to the island. Incredibly, he found the pouch right near the beach, hanging from a small bush. “I couldn’t believe it,” said Frank, “but it was starting to get dark, so I got back to the boat quickly. The driver was clearly relieved to see me, but very agitated. As soon as I climbed in, he gunned the boat and we took off from the island at full speed.” During the ride back Frank learned that the island was home to a colony of sea swallows that nest in the caves and cliffs. The nests are a highly valued ingredient in a Chinese delicacy called Bird’s Nest soup. Known as “white gold,” the teacupsized bird’s nests sell for an astounding US $2,000 per kilo. The prized colony is protected by armed guards who, most likely, would have shot us on sight, assuming we were poachers. Most of our 18 days kayaking in Thailand were not as dangerous or adventuresome as this first one. Quickly, we developed a routine: • Paddling all day in an idyllic paradise • Stopping to swim whenever the heat got to us • Beachcombing on deserted beaches • Stopping at every village we came upon for a fresh supply of water, noodles and sugary snacks. The scenery
Photo by Dave Stibbe.
more spectacular cliff wall. The ladders seemed to lead higher still, into other smaller caves. We bypassed this oddity to head further along, and came upon a small fishing village. A series of bamboo shacks surrounded a long bamboo pier jutting from another beach. Beyond us, the only soul present was a lone Thai, asleep on the dock. Deciding not to wake him, we headed back for a closer inspection of the caves. With some trepidation we climbed the ladders to explore the caves. Frank led the way. All the while I thought: “Hold it. Frank is at least 20 kg heavier than the average Thai. Maybe the ladder network will collapse.” Nothing came crashing down, so I followed cautiously behind. The first series of ladders led into a large cave about 30 metres high and 20 metres deep. It had pits filled with inky darkness, and was rimmed with evil looking stalagmites jutting from the walls. Around us, ladders balanced precariously everywhere. They led nowhere. Fighting back a cold feeling of the “creepies,” we took a few pictures, and beat a hasty retreat to our kayak. Swiftly we headed back onto the water. On the horizon we could see another promising group of islands. Several hours later we were close enough to spot a spectacular beach and a small yacht located in the bay. As we drew near we saw people playing volleyball, and a couple of tents on a small grassy area surrounded by palm trees. We’ve arrived in paradise: that’s our one thought as we hit the shore. The group playing volleyball asked
was surprisingly diverse: from rocky coastline and long beaches, to island oases and Savannah grassland. Below the water, too, the scenery was breathtaking. Several times we snorkeled around coral reefs and limestone cliffs, awakening our eyes to the beauty of the underworld. Most days, finding good campsites on shore proved easy. Thailand’s weather in late January was perfect for the trip: warm (mid 20s), with the occasional breezy day cooling temperatures pleasantly. We enjoyed many memorable encounters with gentle Thai people, but one stands out towards the end of our trip. Only two days remained until we would reach our take-out point at a small coastal village called Satun. Frank and I had just paddled yet another long stretch and were searching the shoreline hopefully for a suitable campsite. The geography over the past several days had been changing gradually. Islands, our preferred campsites, had disappeared, and the shoreline had turned from lovely beachfront, to bays of swampy marsh and mudflats. As 5 p.m. approached we realized darkness would soon overtake us. (Sunrise and sunset happens quickly in the tropics.) But nothing looked very hopeful. “Let’s keep paddling,” Frank said squinting at the horizon, looking for a campsite. “After all, this is paradise.” With that, we kept going. The sun dipped below the horizon at about 6:30 and darkness descended like a cloak. Hours passed. Our headlights lit the watery path as we passed scattered lights from distant fishing villages hugging the shoreline. 11 p.m. Still no suitable campsite appeared. Our shoulders started to protest from 16 hours of steady paddling. “Let’s just go ashore and find a dry spot,” I said, starting to nose the kayak toward
shore lights. Fifteen minutes later the water was too shallow for paddling. We hopped out and towed the craft behind us up to a group of small homes parked on the shore. Tired, dirty and looking pretty ragged, we walked up to the nearest door and knocked. The house was built out of cinderblocks. Its roof was tin and it had a dirt floor inside. A small group of children tumbled out. Quickly the rest of the household was summoned, and we were inspected in some confusion by an entire extended family. With the help of hand gestures and constant repetition, we explained our needs: a campsite, a place to wash, and a place to prepare food. Everyone came down to our kayak en masse and helped haul our gear up beside their home, where we pitched the tent. After introductions to an ever-growing number of family members, Jin (the father) led us to the local washhouse where we were given buckets of fresh water drawn from a well. What a glorious shower! Though the conditions were primitive, it felt wonderful. From here, Jin took us back to his home where we sat down to a prepared feast in our honour. During the meal, almost everyone in the village came to visit. From smiling babies to grandparents, all were incredibly friendly and generous. Shortly after the meal finished, we stumbled exhausted into our tent. Next morning, after distributing some gifts to our kind hosts, we hauled our kayak back into the water, and paddled away under the gaze of the entire village. A pair of dolphins cleared the water in front of us before disappearing in the distance. Flushed with warm feelings towards this beautiful we passed our last days in almost a dream.
Photo by www.johngray-seacanoe.com
ADVENTURE POST MORTEM
After finishing the kayaking portion of our Thailand trek, we packed up our gear and took a bus to a local hotel in the border city of Hat Yai. Here we relaxed for a day before departing on a train for Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. What an incredible trip! This trek proved the most spectacular sea kayaking adventure we’ve ever experienced. The culture (from the hustle and bustle, shopping and crazy nightlife of Bangkok, to the sleepy tranquility of coastal villages) provided a visual feast and constant delight. What about the change in diet from normal Canadian fare? No problem. We ate rice and chicken staples, noodles, and every imaginable marine treat. Nothing caused stomach problems, although a few delicacies made us feel queasy on their way down. We had a bountiful supply of water purification tablets, for times when bottled water wasn’t available. People in Thailand – from urban dwellers to coastal villagers – were courteous and friendly, especially when we made an effort to communicate.
Although our adventure was a do-it-yourself creation, many Thai tour operators offer similar excursions. One company (reach them at www.johngrayseacanoe.com) runs a wide variety of trips – including one or two-day outings and a multi-week extravaganza like ours. This Thailand sea kayaking trek satisfied our desire for an off-beat adventure in an exotic and beautiful tropical setting. Thailand offers all this, plus easy access to camping and good transportation links. When dreams of faraway and exotic locations keep surfacing in your mind, imagine sea kayaking in Paradise. You can’t beat it. —David Stibbe is an instructor for Algonquin College’s Outdoor Adventure diploma program and an employee of Mountain Equipment Co-op. He has travelled extensively in a self-propelled manner around Canada and other exotic destinations.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
A TIME TO SUMMON COURAGE By Larry McCloskey “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”
I
f only this famous saying were true about the environment, and in particular this playground we call the Ottawa area. Too often, the environment and green space are sacrificed for short-sighted notions of progress and economic gain. As residents in the nation’s capital, we have been extremely fortunate. Because Ottawa is a government town, historically we have been spared much of the bleak residue of heavy industry. And as a capital, we have benefited from a national desire to make Ottawa a beautiful city. Still, we have to be careful. Not everyone shares the vision of our city and region as a playground, or at least how this should be achieved. Even the National Capital Commission (NCC) – the body primarily entrusted with the responsibility for beautifying the capital – is capable of taking our natural spaces for granted. For example, the NCC has a strip of land in the Ottawa Arboretum flanked by Dow’s Lake and the canal. The Arboretum is the best location in the city to walk your dog, take a stroll or inflict personal pain on yourself by running. Last autumn, I noticed that the gravel paths were lined with dump trucks. So I asked a construction foreman working there if he could tell me what the sign indicating a plan for “Rehabilitation” meant. He explained that the NCC intended to pave the gravel paths, and add another unnecessary path along the water just to complete the “rehab” treatment program. The Arboretum is a 70-hectare urban oasis of trees and grass; it’s perfect the way it is. For most of us dedicated to the outdoor life, perfection doesn’t need rehabilitation. But the NCC has
Photo by Larry McCloskey.
decided to incorporate the Arboretum into a 35-kilometer paved commuter’s loop. The Commission has decided (in the name of progress or rehabilitation) to treat the Arboretum as a place through which people pass, rather then as a place unto itself. Despite significant protests from many people, the NCC is intending to proceed with the “full monty” rehabilitation program. “That’s just a single example,” someone might argue. True, but here’s another. In the year 2000, I had a young adult mystery novel published, called Murder at Summerhouse. Shortly after the book was published, I went out for a run. In the novel my two 12-year-old heroines seek out a hollowed willow tree to meet under and discuss clues from the case. This tree actually existed; its willow strands canopied magnificently over the water at Patterson’s Creek in the Glebe. I stop only reluctantly on runs, but on this day I was concerned about the city crew that had surrounded “the hollow” as my girl-heroines called it. I asked to speak to the foreman and protested that in spite of the hollowed section, the tree was healthy. He agreed, but said with a sigh that the matter was out of his hands because someone had complained it might fall down some day. We looked at the beautiful tree, innocently leaning far out across the water where it was suppose to land perhaps 30 years from now, if only left
to its natural course. We then looked at each other, me dripping with sweat and he with frustration at what he must do. The death sentence had been pronounced and had to be carried out. Not all change is for the worse. If you look at aerial photographs of Gatineau Park at Kingsmere 75 years ago, you’ll be struck by how barren it looks. Much of the densely forested areas where we ski and hike through today lacked trees back then. But it is fair to say that much change we experience today reduces green space; many regard this process as inevitable. So, in the future, let’s look at what we have and from where we have come. Let’s learn from the past, and not treat the future as inevitable. Even things that seem secure and permanent can disappear in an instant. And once something is gone, if it is thought about at all, it usually is relegated to the memory of archival photos, as my willow tree will soon be. Someone once said, “Life is what happens when you’re not paying attention.” William Lyon Mackenzie King was paying attention when he passed Kingsmere on to the Canadian people as part of a national park. The Ottawa area is our playground, so let’s summon the courage and the heart to change things in directions we want them to go, even at the expense of short-term concepts of progress. —Larry McCloskey has avoided gyms his whole life, preferring to run, ski, canoe and explore in the great outdoors of the Ottawa area. www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
By Angie and Ryan Brown
IT’S TOBOGGANNING TIME!
WELL, WE FINALLY GOT enough snow to have a decent toboggan ride down “Deadman’s Hill” at Mooney’s Bay. Where can you find this awesome ride? Dead Man’s Hill is on the side of Mooney’s Bay hill that faces the beach. We don’t really know how the hill got its name, except our Dad says he and his brothers and sister have called it that since they were kids. Tobogganing is a lot of fun, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t follow some simple rules. Here are a few that we found in the City of Ottawa’s Activity Guide: • Sled during daylight; if you’re out at night, make sure the hill is well lit. • If you’re a kid, wear a helmet (a hockey one will do). People move a lot faster when tobogganing downhill than they do skating… and the ground is almost as hard. • Wait until the path is clear before starting down the hill. • Always sit or kneel facing forward, unless you’re riding a “flying saucer.” Then, just hang on. • Roll to the side if you have to get off in a hurry. Don’t use your hands or feet to stop. • Don’t lie around at the bottom. Quickly get up, and climb back up the hill to the side. Other great toboggan hills include: • Bruce Pit on Cedarview Road; • Conroy Pit. Light, open until 11 p.m. • Green’s Creek toboggan hill at the intersection of Bearbrook Road and the Rockcliffe Parkway. • Dominion Arboretum.
One of the most common emergency shelters someone can build is called a quinzhee. Here’s how to make a basic one. If you want to read about how to make a more substantial one, see page nine of this issue. Make your quinzhee by first forming a pile of snow in a circle or oval shape. Pile the snow about half a metre higher than your head when you’re sitting down just above the ground. Wait for about an hour. During this time the snow will settle slightly, creating a firmer structure. Before you start hollowing out your snow shelter, it’s a good idea to stick twigs that are about half a metre long into the snow pile. These will help you tell the
thickness of the wall, when you’re digging the quinzhee out. When you encounter one while digging inside the quinzhee, you’ll know you’re close to breaking through. Be sure that you dig down, then up into the quinzhee. This “sink” will help keep the warm air in and cold air out. Once you’ve hollowed out the inside, being careful not to dig through the snow wall or ceiling, you’ve finished your snow shelter. Now it’s time to stretch out inside. CAUTION! Snow shelters are fun, but they could also be very dangerous. Never make one of these unless an adult is supervising the activity closely. As well, never make a quinzhee near a road or snowmobile trail.
Idea games for younger kids
• Make a pin-the-nose-on-the-snowman game. Play it by seeing who, while blindfolded, can pin a paper carrot nose closest to where it belongs. • Trace your winter boots, gloves, mittens, hats, etc., onto paper and then color them. • Make miniature igloos using marshmallows and frosting. • Create a mini ice castle using colored ice cubes; use salt to “glue” them together.
This “cool” snow shelter is easy to build By Guy Holmwood-Bramwell
During winter months, keeping warm while out camping – or if you get caught out overnight – can prove a problem. The situation is much worse if you forget to pack warm clothes. It’s never advisable to stay outside unless you’re well prepared and have some adequate shelter. www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
Fact or Fiction? By Ken Parker
CROSS-TRAINING. Lot’s of people talk about crosstraining as it applies to both general fitness and performance-oriented training programs. But what are the real benefits? With the explosive growth in popularity of the triathlon, the benefits of cross-training have been increasingly touted. In the context of training for any multi-sport event (whether it is the decathlon or triathlon), training for different disciplines of an event is not called cross-training – it is called sport-specific training. Cross-training is ideal if you want to establish a high level of general fitness. It: • Conditions different muscle groups • Develops new sets of skills • Reduces boredom. Cross-training allows you the freedom to vary the stress placed on specific muscles, or your cardiovascular system. After months of the same movements your body becomes extremely efficient performing those movements. While that’s great for competition, it limits the amount of overall fitness you possess, and reduces the actual conditioning you get while training. Rather than continuing to improve, you simply maintain a certain level of fitness. Additionally, cross-training is extremely helpful at reducing the risk of injury from repetitive strain or overuse. For an injured athlete who is unable to train or fully train in his or her primary sport, cross-training will help maintain a degree of general fitness that will facilitate his or her return to sport-specific training when able. However, there’s not much evidence to support the statement that www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
cross-training will improve performance. Even leading sports exercise physiologists agree on this point. The Principle of Specificity states that the most important form of training for elite athletes is that which matches the biomechanics, energy system use, and psychological control factors of an intended competitive performance. If elite and mature athletes want to improve their performance, they need to stick primarily to sport-specific training. Not convinced? Tim Noakes is a Professor of Exercise and Sports Science in the Department of Physiology at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. He’s also an editorial board member for the Sportscience web site. According to him, “There is no basis to expect training effects from one form of exercise to transfer to any other form of exercise. Training is absolutely specific.” Dr. David Costill has studied athletes for 40 years; his research has been published in more than 400 articles. When asked if he believed in cross-training, his answer was clear and direct. “No (I don’t), because there are several drawbacks. Nobody has proven that you get a positive transfer, (i.e. that) you’ll be a better runner because you swim. That’s totally insane. If anything, you would be worse. In training, everything is very specific. If you want to be a good runner, run. There is nothing you gain by riding a bike….”
A paper written by S.F. Loy, J.J. Hoffmann and G.J. Holland (sports scientists quoted in the publication Coaching Science Abstracts) in 1995 discussed the benefits and practical use of cross-training in sports. It said: “Cross-training is likely to have marginal effects on lower level, less-than-maximally-fit individuals. It is a viable prescriptive possibility for individuals interested in general fitness. However, it has no founding research for showing benefits for elite athletes. An argument could be made that cross-training has a greater potential to be detrimental to elite athlete performance than a benefit.” If you’re looking for more evidence, consider this. A recent study in Runner’s World Magazine showed that trained runners could improve their 10K time by nine percent by adding cycling to their training. Nine percent! Let’s see… for a 30-minute, 10K runner that would mean an improvement of two minutes and 42 seconds. Any serious runner knows that this low increase is a ridiculous waste of time. Here’s the bottom line: if you want to be fit and have fun, cross-training is the way to go. If you’re interested in improving your performance and achieving your potential in a specific sport, train specifically. —Ken Parker is a long-time runner, coach and race-organizer.
Photo by National Capital Commission.
THE BARK
Cross-training training benefits
Cold Comforts: A Hearty Bean Meal By Julie St. Jean
WITH WINTER winds knocking at your door, soften the chill with a comforting one-pot meal. There’s nothing more delicious than a meal cooked in one dish that can easily be added to, and shared with friends – a hearty, big pot of baked beans.
C
assoulet is always made with white beans. Beans offer the best source of plant protein, and are high in fibre, calcium, iron, potassium and zinc. However, because the protein is incomplete you should eat it with foods rich in vitamin C. Dark green vegetables and bell peppers are an excellent match for this dish. When preparing this dish, use the Great Northern white bean. This bean has a delicate flavour that lends itself well to the robust ingredients that are paired with it. A traditional cassoulet is a meat dish consisting of at least 30 percent pork. Usually, the beans were cooked long and slow in as much fat as each little bean could possibly absorb. I’ve adapted this classic French recipe so it is almost vegetarian. I couldn’t give up the bacon. I’ve reduced the amount of fat and replaced it with a generous serving of tomato, garlic and fresh rosemary. This makes either a wonderful meal on its own, or works well as a side dish with medium-rare pork tenderloin, lamb chops, duck confit, hearty sausages, chicken thighs, or sautéed rapini. This dish can be made ahead of time; it also travels and reheats well. Cook any accompaniments just before serving. Leftovers are also great for breakfast.
CASSOULET • 2
cups dried Great Northern white beans (or white kidney or navy beans) • 1/4 cup (1/2 head) fresh garlic (minced) • 350 – 400 grams (2 medium) onions (large dice) • 1/4 lb bacon (large dice), reserve three slices • 1 tablespoon tomato paste • 1/2 cup or one carrot (diced) • 1/2 cup or 1 – 2 stalks of celery • 28 oz. quality canned diced tomatoes (or fresh plum or hot house tomatoes) • 1 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock • 3/4 bunch of fresh rosemary leaves (finely chopped) • 1 red and one green bell pepper (large dice) • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (or sea salt) • 1/2 tablespoon fresh black pepper (or to taste) Sort through the beans, picking out any stones or old wrinkled beans. Soak the dried beans in cold water for 12 hours. This replenishes moisture and reduces the cooking time. Soaking also helps to leach out some substances that cause flatulence. Drain and rinse the beans. Cook them in four parts unsalted water for every part bean. Stir occasionally until “al dente.” The bean centres should still be firm. To make sure they’re cooked, test by placing a bean on the tip of your tongue, and biting into the bean. Strain the cooked beans, and set aside. Preheat your oven to 325
Photo by Julie St. Jean.
degrees F. In a heavy-bottomed, ovenproof pot, sauté the bacon until you have enough fat to sauté the vegetables. Add onion, carrot and celery. Sauté until the onion is golden. Add garlic. Sauté one minute, then stir in tomato paste. Sauté the mixture at low to medium heat for two or three minutes. Add the tomatoes, stock, rosemary and beans. Stir the ingredients until they’re well mixed. Layer three slices of bacon across the top of the beans, then cover and place in the oven. Bake one hour. Uncover, and stir in peppers. Continue to bake one more hour or until most of the liquid has been absorbed into the beans and they are soft when tastetested.
DELICIOUS ACCOMPANIMENTS Sautéed Rapini • 1
bunch rapini cut roughly into two inch lengths • 1/4 cup olive oil • 4 large cloves garlic (thinly sliced) • kosher or sea salt, and fresh black pepper In a large pot of salted boiling water, blanch the rapini until it turns dark green, yet is still crisp to bite. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add garlic. Sauté one minute and add the rapini. Season with kosher or sea salt, and fresh black pepper. Meats such as chicken thighs, pork tenderloin or lamb chops can be easily seasoned with salt and pepper and seared in a
tablespoon of hot olive oil in a preheated heavy-bottomed frying pan. Finish the rapini in the oven in its own pan, or add it to the cassoulet during the last 30 minutes or less of cooking time.
MULLED WINE RECIPE 750 mL dry red wine 12 cloves, whole • 2 cinnamon sticks, snapped in half • 1/2 teaspoon anise seed, or 6 whole star anise • 1 generous tablespoon orange zest (from one large orange) • 1/4 cup brown sugar • •
Place all the ingredients in a pot, and warm it gently on medium heat. Do not boil. Let it rest on low heat for 10 minutes to develop the flavours. Strain the liquid through a fine sieve or cheese cloth. (Even a clean J-cloth will work.) Pour the wine into mugs or heat-resistant glasses, and garnish with a slice of orange, and a small handful of raspberries and blueberries. Frozen berries work well. Enjoy.
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
MAR 30 – Dual slalom Pro race Camp Fortune www.campfortune.com/events
SEMINARS & SLIDESHOWS EVERY THURSDAY – BEGINNER WAXING SEMINARS FREE Classic and Skating Wax Clinics, 7 pm Thursday evenings @ Trailhead Please register (613) 722-4229 www.trailheadcnd.ca JAN 22 – WEDNESDAY XC SKI WAXING BASICS REPEAT PRESENTATION Mountain Equipment Co-op JAN 29 – WEDNESDAY Exploring The Galapogos Islands Slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op FEB 5 – WEDNESDAY CPAWS Wilderness Slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op FEB 12 – WEDNESDAY Navigation By GPS Info Session Mountain Equipment Co-op
Hey! Every week there are tons of outdoor activities planned that you probably didn’t know about! Take a look below and plan your winter outdoors! COURSES AND LESSONS – ALL SPORTS
JAN 26 – NakkerLoppet, 25km Ottawa, ON www.nakkertok.ca/nakkerloppet.htm
Trailhead 1 on 1 Lessons X-country ski (613) 722-4229 scottst@trailhead.ca
FEB 1-17 – Winterlude www.capcan .ca
Mooney’s Bay X Country Ski Centre Lessons at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility. (613) 247-4883 terryfoxathletic@ottawa.ca Nakkertok lessons and programs – XSki www.nakkertok.ca Carleton Athletics X Country Ski School – Individual and group lessons. Money supports National Athletics Development Centre and Carleton Ski team. (613) 520-4480 www.carleton.ca/athletics JAN 9 – onwards - FREE Kayak Practice Trailhead - Nepean Sportsplex, 9:15-10:30. Whitewater Demo boats available. (613) 722-4229, ext 118. FEB 1 – 11am – 31st Silver Spoon Classic Deep River, ON V. Koslowsky 584-3760 or E. Hagberg 584-4636 FEB 8-9 – Winter Camping Trailhead program focuses on the practical skills, knowledge needed to enjoy winter camping in the Great Canadian north. Location: Lac St-Marie (613) 722-4229 ext. 118 MAR 1 – Winter camping workshop Haliburton Highlands trails and tours 1-(705) 286-1760 1-800-461-7677 info@trailsandtours.on.ca
COMPETITIONS, SKI LOPPETS & EVENTS JAN 25-26 – Subaru Continental Cup/Canada Cup World Senior Trials Mont Orford, PQ www.xco.org/racesche.htm JAN 25-26 – Ontario Cup 5 & 6 Duntroon, ON www.xco.org/racesche.htm
50
FEB 8-9 – Canadian Ski Marathon in Buckingham, Montebello & Lachute. 37th Anniversary offering a world-class x country trail in the splendor of the Quebec countryside. www.csm-mcs.com FEB 8-9 – Loppet du Mont Orford Mont Orford, PQ http://canada.x-c.com FEB 14-16 – Keskinada Loppett in Hull, QC Thousands of participants, young and old of all calibre, gather together for Canada’s largest xc-ski event. 1-819-595-0114 www.keskinada.com FEB 15 – SATURDAY Dim Sum and Winterlude Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 15-16 – Ontario Cup 7 & 8 Thunder Bay www.xco.org/racesche.htm FEB 20-22 – American Birkebeiner in Cable to Hayward, Wisconsin, USA. Nearly 10,000 skiers gather to celebrate “The Birkie”, a legendary race. 1-715-634-5025 www.birkie.com FEB 21 – 14th Annual CHEO Corp. relay Mont Ste. Marie FEB 22-MAR 1 – Canada Winter Games in Bathurst/Campbelton, NB www.2003canadagames.ca FEB 24-25 – OFSAA High school Championships at Camp Fortune www.xco.org/racesche.htm MAR 4-9 – Canadian National Championships/ Madshus Sprint Series in Duntroon, ON www.skinational.com MAR 23 – SUNDAY Sock It To Me At Bushtukah Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
OTTAWA OUTDOORS WINTER
FEB 19 – WEDNESDAY Hiking in Pakistan Visiting K2, Concordia, & Islamabad Slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op FEB 26 – WEDNESDAY Fix Your Own Gear: Gen. Maint, & Repair Info Session Mountain Equipment Co-op MAR 5 – WEDNESDAY CPAWS Wilderness Wednesday info session and slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op MAR 26 – WEDNESDAY Outward Bound Adventure Camp info session and slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op APR 2 – WEDNESDAY CPAWS Wilderness Wednesday info session and slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op APR 16 – WEDNESDAY Safe Cycling Seminar, By: Citizens for Safe Cycling Mountain Equipment Co-op APR 23 – WEDNESDAY Outward Bound Adventure Camp info session & Slideshow Mountain Equipment Co-op APR 30 – WEDNESDAY Alone in the Appalachians by Moniqu Dykstra (slideshow and book signing) Mountain Equipment Co-op
ADVENTURE RACING FEB 22 – Salomon Adventure Challenge 40 km multisport, Mont Ste. Marie Pete Cameron, (416)783-4464 pete@far.on.ca MAR 1 – Winter Race- X Country skiing, snowshoeing and bushwhacking! www.wildernessbeyond.com E. wbac@backpacker.com T. 705-448-WILD (9453) MAR 22 – Mont Ste.Marie, Gatineau www.raidthenorth.com
TELEMARK SKIING FEB 22 – The 4th Annual Telemark Festival. Come and experience the thrill of telemarketing. Titus Mountain Ski Area, Malone, NY. Prizes and give-aways, clinics beginner to advanced, live music, Demos, Races include “Big Air” competition, Traditional Giant Slalom, plus many more. 1-800-848-8766.
www.titusmountain.com MAR 15-16 – 28th Annual NATO Telemark Festival. Mad River Glen Fayston, Vermont www.telemarknato.com/festival.html
RESCUE TRAINING APR 7-12 – Equinox Adventure Combined Rig I, II and III Certificate Toronto $670 (no meals) Rig Rescue and Rappel Complete Six days of consecutive training at our Ottawa base camp or Toronto site provides the most intensive training module available in North America. APR 7-12 – Equinox Adventure River Rescue: Level I Cost: $235.00 Designed for those who paddle whitewater or for professionals responsible for whitewater and shore-based water rescues. Learn emergency procedures that include the use of throw-bags, safety lines and knots, freeing pinned boats, rescuing trapped swimmers, extricating stranded paddlers mid-current, dealing with low level dam hazards, and more. Location: Elora, ON or Ottawa River.
ICE CLIMBING JAN to MAR – Every Weekend Equinox Adventure Two-Day Intro Program Cost: $145.00 Designed for the complete beginner who has little or no climbing experience but wants to try this exciting sport. FEB 15-17 – The North Face Festiglace. Eastern Canada’s largest ice climbing competition held in Riviere Jacque-Cartier, Quebec. Courses & equipment are available. Also during Winterlude www.festiglace.com
SNOWSHOEING FEB 1 – Gatineau Park spaghetti supper. Ottawa Hostel Outdoors Club, (OHOC) Jim B 827-0706 FEB 2 – SUNDAY Snowshoe Series Lac Phillippe area Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 8 – Wolf Trail Gerry S 731-5312 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 8 – SATURDAY Greenbelt Snowshoe Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 9 – SUNDAY Gatineau Park Ski, 20 km Snowshoe Series Ben Lake & Lac La Peche Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 15 – Snowshoeing workshop Haliburton Highlands trails and tours (705) 286-1760 / 1-800-461-7677 info@trailsandtours.on.ca FEB 15 – P19 to P17, Some bushwhacking. Jim F 234-4548 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 16 – SUNDAY Snowshoe Series Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 22 – SATURDAY Manotick Snowshoe Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 22 – Kingsmrere Ann M 827-8740 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 23 – SUNDAY Snowshoe Series Lac Richard Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 MAR 1 – Gatineau Park, Meg C 722-3482 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 MAR 1 – SATURDAY Schoolhouse Snowshoe
Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 MAR 2 – SUNDAY Snowshoe Series Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 22 – SATURDAY Gatineau Park Ski, 20km Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 8 – Lac Phillippe, Larry B 225-7903 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
FEB 22 – SATURDAY Manotick Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 9 – SUNDAY Snowshoe Series Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
FEB 22 – SATURDAY RTA End-to-End Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 15 – SATURDAY Afternoon Snowshoe Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 MAR 15 – Larimac Trails, Teresa B 236-9307 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 MAR 22 – Carman Trails, Shaelah R 723-5342 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 MAR 29 – Gatineau Park, Patrick A 521-6846 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 WEEKEND TRIPS FEB 28 – MAR 2 Snowshoeing, winter camping, Adirondacks, max 6, $20 deposit, Treena G 728-5311 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 MAR 7-9 Downhill, X-C skiing, snowshoeing. Dr’s Inn, Saranac Lake, max 18, $60 deposit. Reserve by Jan 11. Belinda B 748-0358 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
FEB 23 – Zone3sports Ski/Run/Ski Mooney’s Bay / Zone3sports.com 762-9496 FEB 23 – SUNDAY RTA End-to-End Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 23 – Greenbelt area. Pauline A 829-7837 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 23 – Eardley Rd to Lac Richard, trail 56 to Renaud Cabin and return. 20km. Jim F 234-4598 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 MAR 1 – SATURDAY Schoolhouse Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 MAR 2 – Trail 55. Jessica T 237-0870 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
RUNNING CLINICS WEEKNIGHTS – Learn to Run Clinics Train for the National Capital Race Weekend BUSHTUKAH – 792-1170
DOGSLEDDING FEB 8-9 – Ottawa Outing club Dean@outingclub.com (613)729-0507 www.outingclub.com MAR 8 – Novice Fun Sled Dog Race Deux Rivieres, ON 3-hours west of Ottawa on Hwy 17 Anyone who has won less that $200.00 total prize money in dog racing and can bring three dogs to pull them on something with brakes. Shock corded, safety-release towline a must. Loaner sleds and towlines available. Spectators welcome! (Dogs must be leashed and kept away from race area unless racing) Linda at (705)747-0874 muttlycrew@hotmail.com
KICKSLEDDING FEB 22 – Kick sledding workshop Haliburton Highlands trails and tours (705) 286-1760 / 1-800-461-7677 info@trailsandtours.on.ca
MAR 2 – P7 Kingsmere to Western via trail 3 Steve J 728-8228 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
HIKE
MAR 8 – SATURDAY Greenbelt Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 22 – SATURDAY Cake Walk Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 9 – Carp Ridge back country trails. John W 839-5238 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
MAR 23 – SUNDAY Beyond Perth Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 9 – P12 to Huron. Peter S 729-9557 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
KAYAKING
MAR 16 – SUNDAY Gatineau Park Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
VARIOUS NIGHTS – Coureurs de Bois Kayak pool sessions http://cdb-ottawa.com
FEB 1 – x-country skiing workshop Haliburton Highlands trails and tours (705) 286-1760 / 1-800-461-7677 info@trailsandtours.on.ca
MAR 16 – Pine Road to Herridge Lodge. Robert A 744-7985 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
FEB 1 – SATURDAY Gatineau Park Ski, 15km Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
MAR 23 – SUNDAY Cataraqui Trail Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225
JAN 9-onwards – Free Kayak Practice Trailhead - Nepean Sportsplex, 9:15-10:30. Whitewater Demo boats available. (613) 722-4229, ext 118.
FEB 2 – P10 Fortune Parkway along trails Gerry S 731-5312 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
MAR 23 – P10 to Huron and/or Western along trails 3, 21, 2/18, 1B,1. John C 730-9851 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
MAR 14-16 – Snowshoeing, Adirondacks hostel, $40 deposit. Reserve by February 22. Treena G 728-5311 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703
X-COUNTRY & DOWNHILL SKIING DAY TRIPS All X-C ski trips meet at the Hostel on Sunday at 9:15am unless otherwise indicated.
FEB 2 – SUNDAY Winterlude Triathlon – Dow’s Lake Zone3sports.com 762-9496 FEB 8 – Saturday Rideau Trail Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 9 – Mer Bleu Gilles C 258-6636 OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 15 – Lac Philippe and/or Lac Renaud Meet at 18:00 at Hostel for car pooling. Spaghetti dinner at 22:30. (Be sure to eat before ski!) Small donation for dinner required. Jim B 827-0706. Co-leader TBD. OHOC Hotline - 230-6703 FEB 15 – SATURDAY RTA End-to-End Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 16 – SUNDAY RTA End-to-End Ski Rideau Trail Assoc., Info line # 860-2225 FEB 16 – P13 to Western, trail 9 Ramparts, trail 21. Steep inclines, red trails Teresa B 236-9307
WEEKEND TRIPS JAN 31-FEB 2 – L2 Downhill, X-C skiing. Agnes Horth Inn (Sutton), max 16, $50 deposit. Marie-Reine F 749-1469 FEB 7-9 – X-C skiing. Le Chalet Beaumont, Val David (Que), max 14, $50 deposit. Ken Z 228-8553 FEB 14-16 X-C skiing, Mont Tremblant Hostel, max 16, $50 deposit. Robert A 744-7985 MAR 7-9 – Downhill, X-C skiing, snowshoeing. Dr’s Inn, Saranac Lake, max 18, $60 deposit. Belinda B 748-0358 MAR 21-23 – X-C skiing, snowshoeing. Harris Farm (Que), max 16, $60 deposit, John G 238-1468
CANAL SKATE FEB 19 – WEDNESDAY – 19:00 Skating night on the canal followed by warm refreshments (chilly, chowder etc) at Naval Officers Mess 78 Lisgar Street. Sma ll fee. Ottawa Bike Club (OBCA)
JAN 16-18 – Trailhead - (613) 722-4229 In pool lessons on rolls and much more. JAN 30-FEB 1 – Trailhead - (613) 722-4229 In pool lessons on rolls and much more. FEB 13-15 – Trailhead - (613) 722-4229 In pool lessons on rolls and much more. FEB 20-22 – Trailhead - (613) 722-4229 In pool lessons on rolls and much more.
escapes
“...fine food, good skiing, close friends, great park! Keogan Lodge, Gatineau Park on a cool December evening.”
Photographed by © H. Nowell - www.HarryNowell.com
Ottawa Outdoors MAGAZINE & WEBSITE
Your Guide to the Local Outdoor Adventure Scene
SUBSCRIBE ON LINE & COLLECT EVERY ISSUE! 4x per year
Please look for Ottawa Outdoors at these outlets: Mountain Equipment Co-op Bushtukah Great Outdoor Gear • Scouts Canada • Expedition Shoppe • Langford Canoe and Kayaks • Glebetrotters • Kundstadt Sports • RA Centre • Mags and Fags • Wellington Street News • 240 Sparks International News • Cyco’s • Jenda Paddle Sports • Disc Go Round/CD Exchange • All shopping mall book stores • All Chapters book stores • •
Check out our new Web site! Just like the magazine, it’s your guide to the local outdoor scene! www.Ott a wa Ou td o o r s. c a
