Blue Ridge Outdoors Dec. 2023 - Jan. 2024 by Summit Publishing

DEC. 2023 - JAN. 2024

FREE!

BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

COLD-WEATHER Camping Tips

CLIMBING AND BANJO PICKING: GRAHAM SHARP OF STEEP CANYON RANGERS

CHASING POWDER Hit the Slopes in the South

+ A SETBACK FOR RED WOLF RECOVERY + NIGHT SKY PHOTOGRAPHY + WINTER ADVENTURES IN FLORIDA

Our lives are filled with warning labels reminding us to use the good stuff in moderation. And then there is snow. Particularly, the kind you find at the top of a mountain, on slopes, and in tubing hill lanes. It’s our chance to pile on as many extra servings as we like, without a label reminding us to use only sparingly. Snow – when in doubt, take one more run. Welcome to the Mountain.

snowshoemtn.com

ON THE COVER

CONTENTS

PRESIDENT BLAKE DEMASO b l a ke @ b l u e r i d g e o u t d o o r s . c o m E D I TO R I N C H I E F J E D D F E R R I S jedd@blueridgeoutdoors.com P U B L I S H E R L E A H WO O DY leah@blueridgeoutdoors.com

S K I E R S H AV E S O M E F U N O N A L I F T AT V I R G I N I A ' S M A S S A N U T T E N R E S O R T. P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F MASSANUTTEN RESORT

Dec. 2023 - Jan. 2024

D E PA R T M E N T S

A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R K AT I E H A R T W E L L katie@blueridgeoutdoors.com

7 | FIELD REPORT

C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R M E L I S S A K E N N E L LY m . ke n n e l l y @ b l u e r i d g e o u t d o o r s . c o m

Red wolf recovery efforts have a big setback.

E D I TO R I A L & P R O D U C T I O N

9 | FIELD NOTES

S E N I O R E D I TO R W I L L H A R L A N will@blueridgeoutdoors.com

If you want try ice climbing, go with a guide.

G E A R E D I TO R D O U G S C H N I T Z S PA H N doug@elevationoutdoors.com D E S I G N E R / A R T M A N AG E R REBECCA CENCEWIZKI art@blueridgeoutdoors.com

52 | THE OUT AND BACK Two kinds of people when it comes to tent stakes.

C O N T R I B U TO R S

55 | THE GOODS

L AU R E N S T E P P M A R Y B E T H S KY L I S MIKE BEZEMEK

Great gear for the new year.

C O P Y E D I TO R S JULIA GREEN, ROBERT MCGEE

58 | TRAIL MIX

New tunes from Future Islands and Kurt Vile.

ADVERTISING & BUSINESS AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E B U C K B R I C E buck@blueridgeoutdoors.com AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E H A N N A H C O O P E R hannah@blueridgeoutdoors.com

A D V E R T I S I N G C O N T E N T C O O R D I N ATO R

A M A N DA L I V E R E T T E

amanda@blueridgeoutdoors.com B U S I N E S S M A N AG E R M E L I S S A G E S S L E R melissa@blueridgeoutdoors.com D I G I TA L M E D I A

S H A N N O N M C G OWA N

B LU E R I D G E O U T D O O R S . C O M

GOT A STORY IDEA OR COMMENT? submit@blueridgeoutdoors.com B LU E R I D G E O U T D O O R S . C O M

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F S N O W S H O E M O U N TA I N R E S O R T

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertise@blueridgeoutdoors.com

We’ve got details on essential upgrades at Blue Ridge ski resorts.

A cruise through Florida with essential adventures offers a great winter break.

C I R C U L AT I O N I N Q U I R I E S circulation@blueridgeoutdoors.com

ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

11 | POWDER PROGRESS

25 | SUNSHINE STATE ROAD TRIP

shannon@blueridgeoutdoors.com

977 SEMINOLE TR PMB294 C H A R LOT T E S V I L L E , V I R G I N I A 2 2 9 0 1

F E AT U R E S

Technology advancements have made it easier than ever to plan a ski trip.

C R E AT I V E C O N T E N T M A N AG E R

PUBLISHING

51 18 | SKI TECH

O N L I N E D I R E C TO R C R A I G S N O D G R A S S webdir@blueridgeoutdoors.com

SUMMIT

PHOTO BY MARY BETH SKYLIS

DAV E S TA L L A R D G R A H A M AV E R I L L N OA H P O U LO S

38 | ROCK ON

Grammy-winning banjo player Graham Sharp finds a passion for climbing.

43 | TENDING JEREMIAH

Caring for another offers a renewed appreciation for the outdoors.

45 | CHASING THE MILKY WAY

How and where to take the best night sky pics in the Blue Ridge.

51 | COLD CAMPING

We’ve got tips to stay warm in your tent when the temps really drop.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park

Winter brings a flurry of fun.

From skiing and snowboarding to sledding and ice skating, there are plenty of ways to explore West Virginia’s frosty mountain landscapes. Home to three premier ski resorts, Tucker County is a hub for breathtaking beauty and winter adventure all season long. WVtourism.com/SkitheValley

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

FIELD REPORT

RED WOLVES

GOODBYE, AIRPLANE EARS

The most endangered animal on the planet just lost a leader. BY WILL HARL AN

I’M AN AVERAGE DAD. I MAKE IT TO my kids’ soccer games. I put food on the table, help them with homework, and tuck them in at night. But there are SuperDads out there. I have seen them at soccer tournaments: they have tents set up to shade and massage their kids in between games. They wear jerseys with their kids’ names on the back. They will do anything for their children. There are SuperDads in the natural world, too—fathers who sacrifice everything for their offspring. Male glass frogs guard their eggs 24/7 for weeks, starving themselves to shield their babies from predators. Male seahorses feed and carry fertilized eggs in their pouches. Male sandgrouse dip their wings in distant watering holes and then fly waterlogged across the desert to their thirsty young, which suck water from their father’s feathers. Last month, we lost one of the world’s greatest SuperDads—and one of the world’s most endangered animals. A red wolf named Airplane Ears was struck by a vehicle and killed. A necropsy is pending. No additional details have been released by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Fewer than 25 red wolves remain in the wild. Airplane Ears sired 11 of them. Named for his exceptionally long ears that extend somewhat horizontally, Airplane Ears was one of the most important wolves in the history of the red wolf recovery program. Red wolves once roamed throughout the Eastern United States, but by the 1980s they had been nearly hunted to extinction.

So the last remaining wolves were brought into captivity. In 1987, they released some of their offspring into North Carolina’s Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Red wolves quickly flourished, and by 2006, more than 120 red wolves roamed 1.7 million acres in eastern North Carolina. The red wolf’s recovery was hailed as the most successful animal reintroductions to the wild ever achieved, and biologists began planning for additional red wolf reintroductions in other locations. Then restrictions were loosened on coyote hunting. Red wolves can be easily mistaken for coyotes, and a 375% increase in red wolf shooting deaths followed. Red wolves went from hero to nearly zero. Their population crashed, and rather than attempt to curb the shooting deaths, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service planned to abandon its red wolf recovery program entirely. As few as seven red wolves survived in the wild by 2019. But the few remaining underdogs wouldn’t give up— and neither would the dedicated biologists and conservationists fighting for them. Environmental groups sued—and won—forcing the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to restart its red wolf recovery program. It’s already working, and a big reason for its renewed success is Airplane Ears. Last spring, for the first time in many years, red wolf pups were born in the wild. Airplane Ears was their father. Red wolves mate for life, and Airplane Ears and a female red wolf named Pam are lifetime breeding partners. After raising five pups last year, Airplane Ears and Pam gave birth to five more pups this spring. The couple had proven to be such good caretakers of their young that biologists added a sixth pup to their litter. The sixth pup had been born at a zoo, and it was transferred to the care of Airplane Ears and Pam soon after birth. Airplane Ears and Pam have raised their adopted pup as one of their own. All 11 of their pups have grown into healthy yearlings and subjuveniles. One reason is Airplane Ears’ protective care. He fed and

A I R P L A N E E A R S . P H O T O B Y WA L T J E N K I N S

nurtured his pups and taught them how to hunt. He kept his pups close to him and was always scanning his surroundings for potential dangers. When people were around, Airplane Ears would act as a decoy. He would intentionally walk out to attract attention to himself so that his pups could secretly scramble to safety. Several times, biologists have observed Airplane Ears strut out into a field to distract visitors. Meanwhile, just behind the unknowing crowd, his pups were racing for cover. Now, without their father around, many of the pups are wandering closer to people—and to the busy highway that killed their father. Gunshots are still the leading cause of death for red wolves, but vehicle collisions are a close second. Save Red Wolves—an alliance of organizations and individuals concerned about red wolves—is working to create red wolf crossings and other road safety measures in eastern North Carolina. Save Red Wolves also honors Airplane Ears with a tribute at saveredwolves.org, which provides photos, videos, and biographies of the remaining red wolves—and updates on red wolf

recovery. Red wolves are still one of the most imperiled species on the planet. Another male red wolf was illegally shot and killed this summer. U.S. Fish and Wildlife and the Center for Biological Diversity are offering a $15,000 reward for information leading to successful prosecution. Despite the recent losses, red wolves are making a comeback. Airplane Ears has been an essential part of their remarkable resurgence. He and Pam have doubled the number of red wolves in the wild and given the species a fighting chance. Last month, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released a new Red Wolf Recovery Plan that aims to expand the population to 740 and launch two additional reintroduction sites in the East in the coming decades. Airplane Ears is gone. But across moonlit swamp forests, in the shrill howls of his offspring, are echoes of their father. Follow the Pack: Save Red Wolves provides photos, videos, and biographies of the remaining red wolves. Stay updated on Pam and her pups at saveredwolves.org.

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

FIELD NOTES

WANT TO TRY ICE CLIMBING?

FROZEN CRAGS

PHOTO BY ELLEN KANZINGER

You should probably hire a guide, especially in the South. BY MARY BETH SKYLIS

IN RECENT YEARS, BLUE RIDGE winters have been pretty mild. The lack of cold has been a sore spot for the region’s ice climbers, who must chase ideal conditions for successful days on frozen crags. “There’s not an abundance of ice to be climbed,” says Grant Price, a Charlottesville-based climber and the head guide for Blue Ridge Mountain Guides, an AMGA Rock Instructor and SPI Provider. For novice climbers ready to ascend some ice, hiring a guide is likely the best way to get into the sport, especially for those hesitant about the risks and weather conditions in the mountains. Price helped us breakdown why.

Guides Can Help Determine Where and When to Ice Climb

In places like Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, winter temperatures can be inconsistent, which makes it difficult to predict ideal ice climbing conditions. Ice is typically prime after temperatures have been below freezing for five days, and if isn’t just right, crags can become dangerous for inexperienced climbers. Climbing guides scout the best spots and are trained to mitigate risk. “One of the big facets of trying to go ice climbing in the South is just knowing where the ice is— and knowing whether or not it's in,” explains Price. “Sometimes it comes in for a day and a half, and sometimes you get a few weeks.” While climbers can explore potential ice climbing crags on their own, a guide service typically provides a faster entry point into the sport. With Blue Ridge Mountain Guides, Price takes climbers on

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

ice crags just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, near Wintergreen, Va., in an area that saw temperatures rise into the mid 60s this past winter. “Ice climbing is very condition dependent,” Price says. “There are very specific areas.”

Guided Trips Typically Come with Free Gear Rentals

Going guided can save new ice climbers cash on expensive equipment, since most trips come with rental gear. A basic ice climbing setup costs about $2,000, including

ice tools, a harness, crampons, a helmet, and a pack. Those who are uncertain about their commitment to ice climbing in the Blue Ridge Mountains will likely flinch at such a significant cost. “There is quite a bit of financial investment in ice climbing,” Price says. “Working with a guide is likely going to give you access to fleet gear so you can rent gear and try it out before making an investment.”

Guides Share What They Know

Because ice crags are few and

far between in the South, many experienced climbers are tightlipped about their favorite spots. As Price puts it: “A lot of people have put in quite a bit of time and effort to find places to climb. And they tend to not be as forthcoming about those.” With limited beta available, guided trips are likely the most reliable and safest options for new adventurers looking to try a sport with increasingly infrequent opportunities in the region. “There aren’t really that many people that are going out ice climbing (here),” Price says.

Start Climbing These three long-standing guides lead trips on rock and ice. Teamlink Inc./Shenandoah Mountain Guides This pioneering regional outfit has been guiding trips in the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding spots in the Blue Ridge since the late 70s. teamlinkinc.com

Blue Ridge Mountain Guides Based in central Virginia, BRMG takes aspiring ice climbers to crags just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Wintergreen. blueridgemtnguides.com

Fox Mountain Guides North Carolina-based Fox Mountain Guides leads one-day ice-climbing trips and instructional courses. foxmountainguides.com

Haywood You Like a Winter Adventure? If you seek wintertime adventures in the great outdoors, Haywood County has you covered. From downhill thrills on skis, snowboards, and snow tubes to the tranquility of winter hiking and beyond, there’s nothing more invigorating than exploring the magical Smoky Mountains of Haywood County, NC.

Plan your Winter Fun at VisitNCSmokies.com.

Visit the NC Smokies Ice Festival, a winter wonderland of ice sculptures, local crafts, ice skating, dining and shopping.

January 26 -28, 2024.

UNCOVER THE MAGIC OF THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS YOUR PERFECT WINTER ESCAPE BEGINS HERE

BOOK YOUR WINTER ESCAPE NOW Plan your dream winter vacation with our exclusive lodging packages, meticulously crafted to cater to your every need. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Wintergreen Resort is your ultimate destination for an unforgettable winter retreat.

wintergreenresort.com 877-245-1770 10

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

A S K I E R AT S N O W S H O E M O U N TA I N I N W E S T VIRGINIA. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RESORT

POWDER PROGRESS

New Trails and Upgrades at Blue Ridge Ski Resorts You Need to Know About BY E R I C J . WA L L AC E

WITH WINTER SETTLING IN, it’s time to dust off the ski and snowboard gear and hit the slopes. Whether you’re looking for a getaway from your backyard go-to or a family vacay at a new resort, some ski areas in the Blue Ridge region have gotten some major upgrades to enhance the experience this winter. From high-speed quad lifts to fresh black diamonds, our guide gives you the info you need to pick a spot—and have some extra fun while you’re there.

BLUE MOUNTAIN RESORT, Pennsylvania

This well-known Pennsylvania resort, which was added to the Ikon Pass lineup earlier this year, put in a sweet new black diamond in 2022, upping total skiable acres to 171 and trails to 40. Half-mile-long Free Fall plunges from the summit’s Comet quad and feeds into Paradise’s lower segment to offer riders 1,082 feet of vert—the most in the state. Last year also saw Blue Mountain’s tubing area expand to 46 lanes and a startling 1,000 vertical feet of drop, making it the

biggest park in the U.S. This season brings further improvements, like a new sound system and interactive party lighting. And the adds don’t stop there: A pair of outdated two-seaters have been replaced with a high-speed six-chair called Main Street Express. The upgrade ferries 3,000 riders per hour up the mountain to significantly boost access to the summit lodge and a cluster of hard-hitting blacks and beginner-friendly greens. Snowmaking also gets a big shot in the arm with 79 new stick guns and 26 fully automatic fan units. That, combined with

20,000 feet of new air and water piping, should drastically improve conditions in many areas across the mountain. While You’re There Should the weather take a warm turn, check out the resort’s new adventure course, Summit Aerial Park. It offers five treetop experiences of various skill levels with nifty swinging logs, wooden towers, platforms, rope ladders, ziplines, and more. Get a fun workout while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding Poconos. skibluemt.com

SNOWSHOE'S SKIDDER LEARNING A R E A WA S S I G N I F I C A N T L Y E X PA N D E D . PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RESORT

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

o Create y ur o wn

Adventure at Etowah Valley Sporting Clays

SNOWSHOE MOUNTAIN, West Virginia

Fans of the “Beast of the East” will be delighted to hear the Southeast’s largest ski resort has replaced its Powder Monkey lift, which dated to 1977, with a new high-speed, fixed-grip quad. The upgrade should dramatically improve access to the experts-only Western Slope area, ease congestion at terrain parks, and improve wait times at the oft logjammed central Ballhooter lift. But that’s not all. The Skidder learning area also got a significant expansion, with 15 new automated fan guns and a conveyer connecting it and the adjacent Grabhammer lift to the main village, which should further reduce Ballhooter wait times by offering an alt route to Snowshoe’s 4,850-foot summit. The Silver Creek ski area gained 15 fan guns on heavily trafficked slopes and had 20 sticks added to its progression park. While You’re There Book an offroad all-terrainvehicle tour. The enclosed, heated four-seaters will carry you deep into the Cheat Mountain backcountry, bringing access to forests, meadows, and vistas that few visitors get to see. snowshoemtn.com

MASSANUTTEN RESORT TURNED 50 LAST YEAR. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RESORT

MASSANUTTEN RESORT, Virginia

Virginia’s oldest ski resort turned 50 last year and has been celebrating with a serious makeover. New online ticketing systems streamline rental processes and bypass ticket windows to offer direct access to slopes through radio frequency identification (RFID) passes and gates. A five-year project to install more than 21,000 feet of snowmaking pipe concludes with connections to nearly 100 new semi and fully automated snow guns that let snowmakers capitalize on cold temps to rapidly blanket the Nutt’s 82 skiable acres. And lifts have all been upgraded, including a new conveyer in the beginner area and much-needed high-speed detachable quad to the 3,000-foot summit. But the best part is the trails: Builders have been working overtime to add five new routes. They include a mile-long signature blue called Mueller’s Mile and the double-black plunge, No Hessitation (a nod to longtime director of operations, Kenny Hess). Also worth noting is Ridgecrest, a breezy ridgeliner connecting the summit to the intermediate-level Upper Mass Transit and Showtime area. While You’re There The resort is home to a 56,000-square-foot indoor water park. It boasts a wave pool, flow-boarding machine, hot tubs, water fortress, lazy river, five 250-plus-foot waterslides, arcade, and restaurant. massresort.com

Experiences

matter HERE.

Crisp mountain air and breathtaking views make The Omni Homestead Resort the ideal place for your winter escape. THEOMNIHOMESTEAD.COM 800.838.1766

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

HATLEY POINTE, North Carolina

The much-anticipated relaunch of Wolf Ridge has begun, and there’s a lot to get excited about. The resort, which sits just off Interstate 26 about 30 miles north of Asheville, got new owners last year and a serious overhaul for the 2023 season. For starters, the main lodge has been totally renovated, adding an “elevated but accessible” fullservice restaurant, taproom, bar area, and lounge. Equipment rentals and ticketing enter the 2020s with state-of-the-art gear, online reservations, touchscreen kiosks, and RFID passes and gates. Slopes also see major upgrades with the complete replacement—and beefing up—of existing water pipelines and snow guns across the resort’s primary 55-acre ski area. And more improvements are coming soon, including high-speed lifts to the 4,700-foot summit, a rebuilt upper lodge (which burned to the ground in 2014), reopening 20-plus acres of abandoned slopes, more trails, terrain parks, a mountaintop village, and mountain biking. hatleypointe.com While You’re There Take a horseback tour to the peak of 5,500-foot Big Bald Mountain at neighboring Bucktown Stables. Rides last 2-3 hours and carry you to majestic 360-degree views of the ski area and surrounding Pisgah and Cherokee National Forest. facebook.com/stablesatbucktown

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

N O R T H C A R O L I N A ' S S U G A R M O U N TA I N R E S O R T HAS RECENTLY INCREASED SNOWMAKING C A P A C I T Y. P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F T H E R E S O R T

Visit Massresort.com/play and come have fun!

SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT, North Carolina

One-off visitors to North Carolina’s biggest ski resort— and the one with the most vertical feet of drop—will benefit from an overhauled equipment rental system that streamlines processes through online reservations and touchscreen kiosks. Snowmaking gets a boost from a new compressor that ups overall capacity by more than 20 percent and a dozen fully automated SMI snow guns. The latter are positioned to radically enhance coverage in heavily trafficked beginner areas and intermediate trails like the Upper and Lower Flying Mile. The best news, however, is the new lifts: All of Sugar’s half-dozen chairs have been replaced within the past six years. Last season saw the final

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

of these improvements, with a high-speed detachable quad going in on the Oma’s Meadow slope. The new unit streamlines access to mountaintop lodging and slashes ride times from a painstaking nine minutes to just above two. skisugar.com While You’re There Bundle up and take a ride on the nearby Wilderness Run Alpine Roller Coaster. The 3,160-foot-long fun machine sits a little over a mile from Sugar Mountain’s main lodge and is one of the few mountaintop coasters in the Southeast. It climbs 770 feet to offer jawdropping views of surrounding valleys and highlands, then winds through gorgeous mountain forests to reach family-friendly top speeds of about 27 miles per hour. wildernessrunalpinecoaster

SKI. STAY. PLAY.

YOUR GATEWAY TO UNFORGETTABLE WINTER ESCAPES

MIDWEEK MADNESS STARTING AT JUST $159*

Revel in a one-night retreat at the slope-side Lodge at Wisp, complete with a 1-day Lift Ticket. Guests relish an indoor pool, Ä[ULZZ JLU[LY I\ZPULZZ HTLUP[PLZ [^V V\[KVVY ÄYLWP[Z ^P[O JVa` gathering spaces, and seamless access to all skier/rider services. @V\Y WLYMLJ[ ISLUK VM JVTMVY[ HUK HK]LU[\YL H^HP[Z *Price is per person based on double occupancy, availability, and advance reservation. Valid Sunday thru Thursday, non-premium / non-holiday.

wispresort.com | 855-990-010 DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

“There’s a world of ways out there that make it almost foolproof to plan and enjoy a Southern ski trip.”

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

E A R L Y S N O W M A K I N G AT A P PA L A C H I A N S K I M O U N TA I N . P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F T H E R E S O R T

High Peaks, High Tech With plenty of advancements on the slopes, it’s never been a better time to plan a Southern ski trip. BY RANDY JOHNSON

ANOTHER SKI SEASON LOOMS— this one with a forecast refreshingly on the snowy side. Despite optimism, I confess, it's always bugged me to hear whiners diss Southern skiing in general and then act clueless when it’s obviously the right time to head to the hills. Making the decision to go skiing is not as tricky as answering the riddle of the Sphinx! If it ever was that difficult—it no longer is. Right now is a pinch yourself moment. It’s never been easier to be a skier—anywhere in the country and maybe especially in the South. There are many ways out

there that make it almost foolproof to plan and enjoy a Southern ski trip, including astoundingly accurate insight available online, and increasingly high tech on the slopes.

A Look Back

Few recall what it was like when snow reports started as phone calls among early ski club members. Over decades that became late-week reports in newspapers, on radio, then TV. Skeptical skiers eventually thought the info was woefully outdated or intentionally inflated. A few years ago, in updating the new edition of my regional ski book

Southern Snow: The New Guide to Winter Sports from Maryland to the Southern Appalachians, I recalled that the original 1986 book actually recommended that skiers create their own telephone network of snow informants in the mountains.

Times have changed

Even if you harbor misgivings about the ski climate of the Southern Appalachians, any number of high-tech revolutions have taken a whack at your worries. The number of ski resorts has dipped over the decades, down here and in every ski region, but those

remaining are bigger and better than ever. The pandemic sparked an outdoorsy ski boom at Southern slopes, but over the last few years of “should I stay or should I go,” I set out to strategize on when and why to choose from among the region’s ski areas. Like many serious skiers, I truly do cast my net over the entire Southern Apps to find where the best conditions and infrastructure intersect. Let’s look at some of the important trends in play today on our slopes.

Webcams

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

T H I S I M A G E M AY B E F R O M W E L L A B O V E T H E S L O P E S , B U T S U G A R M O U N TA I N ' S S U M M I T W E B C A M N E A R T H E L I F T B E L O W S H O W S O F F G R A N D F AT H E R M O U N TA I N ' S S N O W Y P E A K S M U C H L I K E T H I S S H O T. P H O T O B Y T O D D B U S H , C O U R T E S Y S U G A R M O U N TA I N

In truth, some of the “slippage” skiers found in the veracity of ski resort slope reports was the time it took for the info to reach consumers. Webcams aren’t new, but today’s growing region-wide network of them lets us watch snow falling from the sky, plows clearing the roads, and snow guns roaring. As I set out to really use that video network, I realized there’s so much more than mere entertainment involved. Matching weather forecasts and stats to creative use of the web cam network yields major insight into when, where, and why the Southern snowbelt works the way it does. It amazed me how often cams reflected the description of southern snowfall I recount in Southern Snow’s climate chapter. The cams graphically depict the way more westerly high peaks in West Virginia and those farther south along the North Carolina/ Tennessee state line generate the enhanced orographic snowfall created by being first in line when a snowstorm strikes. The cams also showed that slopes farther east often lie in the “precipitation shadow”

of western ranges. That shielding effect can reduce natural snow, but it also comes into play when rain moves through, reducing the impact of drizzle on more easterly ski runs when the cold roars back and snowmaking quickly recovers. Micro insights were everywhere. Some ski areas have overlapping fields of video coverage that let you assess how open terrain will affect the ski experience. There can also be insight into the length of lift lines and how well they’re managed (as in how smoothly they flow and how often lifties fill the seats). That is, if you can see them (which many resorts avoid). The cams can make it easier to decide if you’re even going skiing. You can compare the weather and slope conditions between resorts, compare the extent and quality of their snow, see whether snowmaking is in progress. Combine that and open terrain stats from the slopes for real insight. Massanutten in Virginia debuts a new summit cam this season.

Plan your next adventure at a Virginia State Park.

VIRGINIA

STATE PARKS

SHENANDOAH RIVER

800-933-PARK (7275) | www.virginiastateparks.gov | Know Before You Go — Recreate Responsibly

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

Even Natural Snow

There’s even a Nordic skiing and winter mountaineering side to the webcam strategy. Thanks to the High Peaks Hiking Club, there’s a webcam on Mount Mitchell. There’s a cam on Beech Mountain aimed at Beech Mountain Parkway and adjacent meadows, and that says a lot about what kind of ambient snow exists for snowshoeing or cross country at 5,500 feet in Beech Mountain’s Emerald Outback. That applies to nearby high peaks, too, including Roan Mountain, a true destination for cross-country skiers and mountaineers. Beech Mountain Resort’s summit cam is a trove of insight, and not just about slope conditions. There’s no web cam on Mount Rogers, the highest peak in Virginia, but as the Beech summit cam cycles through its views, the most distant closeup reveals Mount Rogers. Inspect the scimitar-shaped snowy meadows of adjacent White Top, then add in a load of hoarfrost, and winter enthusiasts can make a safe bet to take the drive. Same with Sugar

A S L O P E G R O O M I N G M A C H I N E AT A P P A L A C H I A N S K I M O U N TA I N . P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F T H E R E S O R T

Mountain’s “Grandfather View” summit cam. It’s a spectacular view of that snow-blasted summit. Similar insight about West Virginia’s Dolly Sods comes from eyeing Mount Timberline's webcams. Besides the slopes, it’s easy to see snow conditions on the floor of Canaan Valley and on Canaan Heights beyond. Add that to the ski report at White Grass Ski Touring Center to divine how much natural snow cover there is in a place where Southern skiers often expect it.

Forecasting

Long range forecasts are increasingly accurate, but it’s the startling reliability of forecasts for the upcoming few days that decreases the risk of disappointment—especially for weekend warriors. (The best way for weekend skiers to avoid disappointment? Finally take a midweek ski trip!) The National Weather Service is ever more accurate in mountainous areas, but choose a super local

ELEVATE YOUR

ADVENTURE BLOWINGROCK.COM DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

information source, like’s Ray’s Weather, for western North Carolina (raysweather.com), and you may get even more micro local forecasts, snow accumulation prediction maps, and after-the-fact snow and temperature stats. It’s all as close as an Internet connection, a once futuristic convenience that has deepened the faith skiers can have when the snow gods seem ready to answer their prayers.

The Rest of the Tech

It may not be sexy, but the region’s once laughably primitive snowmaking is light years beyond what it was and as cutting edge as anywhere in the country. The best Southern snowmaking systems boast massive firepower that often grows annually, with new fixed slopeside guns and increased water and air compressor capacity. Highly automated and computerized, the systems’ sensors react to changing humidity and temperature, fine tuning snowmaking to microclimates scattered all over the slopes. It’s not just tech, but strategy

that makes a big difference. With snowmaking that sophisticated, managers blow snow earlier and later in the season, making the region’s skiing vastly more reliable. By being able to quickly exploit the coldest weather, resorts no longer have to cover the slopes bit by bit. The goal for many is “opening to the top” in one burst, and that can mean bringing an entire slope system into use, or into awesome conditions, with amazing speed. When that happens, aim your ski trip just as the weather moderates to avoid snowmaking. Research on the Southern ski industry says the region’s resorts are among the nation’s most aggressive at investing profits in improvements. That has created a long recent list of new chairlifts, including the growing proliferation of high-speed detachable chairlifts that literally detach the chair seat from the moving lift cable, permitting beginners to get on and off with the chair barely moving. This season, Massanutten concludes a two-year expansion with a new high speed detachable quad to the peak, the Summit Express.

Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Wintertime. Perfect for family time. Winter adventures, charming towns, and cozy cabin stays – whisk away to West Virginia for a family getaway unlike any other. From its snowy slopes to seasonal celebrations, Pocahontas County is home to endless frozen fun. This season, make cherished mountain memories in Almost Heaven. WVtourism.com/PocahontasCounty

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

S N O W G U N S AT A P PA L A C H I A N S K I M O U N TA I N . PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RESORT

These speedy four- and even six-passenger chairlifts also let long-time veterans grow the number of miles and vertical feet they ski, getting more bang from their lift ticket buck. The Indy Pass discount ski ticket program also does that. You buy the pass and get two “free” tickets and a third discounted ticket at participating resorts, six of which are in Southern states: West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee (indyskipass.com). Slope grooming, once nonexistent, has become another specialty of regional slopes. The norm now is often flawlessly smooth and inviting corduroy-ribbed ski runs, courtesy of high-tech grooming machines, a few that climb cable systems up the South’s steepest runs. New slopes happen too. Also this season, Massanutten opens a new lift line trail called No Hessitation, that gives the mountain its first double black diamond run, complementing Slot, last year’s new black diamond. Improvements also routinely continue off the slopes. This year,

under new owners, the former Wolf Ridge Ski Resort is being rebranded as a boutique ski area named Hatley Pointe. High hopes for the resort a half hour from Asheville via Interstate 26 start with this season’s massively expanded lodge and fine dining restaurant. Sugar Mountain has refurbished its lodge and is instituting an online ski rental system with touch screen kiosks expected to streamline the process. The pandemic upset a lot of expectations and vacations but time and technology have marched on. The mystery of deciding if and when to ski has become downright easy to sort out. With an enticing forecast out there for a snowy winter, this year may be the time to put a little trust in technology. Randy Johnson is a member of the North American Snowsports Journalists Association and winner of an award from the International Ski History Association for his book Southern Snow. Visit him and his books, and check out some of his videos, at randyjohnsonbooks.com.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS Spend the holidays with us including holiday lights, skating, snowless sledding and more.

PLAN YOUR TRIP GoGastonNC.org

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

SOUTH CAROLINA

connect with OldeEnglishDistrict.com

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

T H E F O R T J E F F E R S O N M O AT WA L L AT D R Y T O R T U G A S N AT I O N A L P A R K . A L L P H O T O S B Y M I K E B E Z E M E K

Sunshine State Road Trip

Whether padding through the wild Everglades, biking pine-laden paths, or exploring subtropical Dry Tortugas National Park, winter is the best time to cruise through Florida for a variety of adventures. BY MIKE BEZEMEK

WE WERE JUST PAST JACKSONVILLE, DRIVING south on forest-lined I-95, when the temps began to rise. While watching for swerving vehicles, I noticed the ambient degrees creep upward from the high 50s to mid-60s. We’d reached the peninsula, surrounded by warm waters on both sides. Also, crazy drivers, I thought, as a sports car careened through traffic at 90 mph. Suddenly, the driver slammed the brakes, cut off a semi, and took the next exit. It was December 1, and my wife and I were embarking on a 10-day road trip to South Florida. We’d never explored much below St. Augustine, mostly because we don’t consider ourselves “Florida people.” We’re more about inland adventures—like mountain biking, whitewater paddling, and summit hiking—than beach lounging or yachting. That said, several parks had long intrigued us. The mild winter, when bugs and humidity are down, seemed the right time for a whirlwind adventure. Plus, DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas vacations offered a lull in tourism. Frankly, we figured we’d tick the boxes and probably never return.

An Undeveloped Coast with Space Rockets

Departing the next morning from a motel, we drove across the causeway to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Canaveral National Seashore. With 312 square miles of wild beaches and wetlands, the combined units represent the largest undeveloped portion of Florida’s east coast. After strolling a short nature trail, we dropped inside the visitor center to buy an $80 national parks pass. Except the register was cash-only, and we forgot to hit an ATM. In a state known for illegal slot machines, I busted out my first “Florida” move. “Would you take quarters?” The retired volunteer blinked, then chuckled. “By law, we are

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

required to accept all forms of legal currency.” The small staff—and my embarrassed wife—watched, as I retrieved a heavy plastic bag filled with quarters, rolled and loose. I have them in case the apocalypse hits and we hole up in a laundromat. With limited time, we cruised Wildlife Drive out to the Manatee Observation Deck. We’d never seen these so-called sea cows in person. Despite murky canal waters, the round gray bodies and fan-like tails were impressive. But we hoped for a closer look while kayaking atop clear waters later in our trip. One reason these pristine parklands exist is NASA, which acquired the swampy area in the 1960s. Much went unused after the construction of the adjacent launch facility. So, that’s where we headed next: the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. We had a great time circling towering rockets, authentic spacecraft, and experimental spacesuits.

Then we returned to the interstate for what felt like a NASCAR race south. Aggressive passing. Brakes squealing. Not only was the shoulder another lane, sometimes the grass was a lane, too.

Like a 1980s Film Shot on Location

We arrived at Boyd’s Key West Campground just after dark. While building our tent, we admired moonlight shimmering on the water. After an early night, we woke before sunrise. Driving the main boulevard toward the ferry terminal, we encountered another classic Florida scene: a wrecked and abandoned sedan and tire marks running onto the sidewalk with two night cops in the roadway, struggling to carry the palm tree toppled by the sedan. During the catamaran ride to Dry Tortugas National Park, we sped at 30 knots through translucent waters past the uninhabited Marquesas Keys. On the top deck of the Yankee Freedom, salt spray flew

through sunny skies. The jovial tour guides mixed pertinent info with knee-slappers, while passengers searched for dolphins. Two hours later, we approached Garden Key, where a massive redbrick fortress rises three stories above the Gulf. Built in the 1860s to protect U.S. shipping routes, the hexagonal Fort Jefferson is the highlight of a unique park that sees only 75,000 visitors annually. With the ferry limited to 200 passengers per day, the pricy tickets can sell out months ahead. The big question: is it worth the cost and long drive? After disembarking, most passengers split into two groups. Half aimed for the beaches, while the rest went to the parade ground and joined a ranger-guided tour. Not us. I wanted maximum value. Thus, I’d used the self-guided brochure to devise a walking route through every chamber, casement, magazine, quarters, and bastion possible. I might have climbed inside the cisterns if allowed.

A PA D D L E R O N T H E N I N E M I L E P O N D C A N O E T R A I L I N E V E R G L A D E S N AT I O N A L PA R K .

My wife’s response was her classic look: here we go again. So, on an island only a quarter mile wide, we proceeded to walk nearly four miles. Upon emerging from the sallyport, my wife glanced longingly at the beach. “Not so fast,” I said. “We gotta walk the sea wall enclosing the moat.” “Of course we do,” she said. Finally, we passed the small campground and arrived at the snorkeling beach. After donning equipment, we plunged into the mellow waves for some underwater exploration. For over an hour, we followed subtropical fish swimming around sea grass, coral stacks, and the brickwork. “I’m going to swim around the fort,” I told my floating wife. “Of course you are,” she said, waving goodbye. During the return ride, the catamaran became a floating bar. The guides transformed into wisecracking bartenders, and this uberFloridian scene felt like a 1980s

movie shot on location. My new favorite cocktail-slinger explained he bought a boat to visit the park on his off days. And when the guides recreate where they work—whether an Appalachian river or out in the Gulf—you know it’s a special place. So yeah, Dry Tortugas was worth it. One of the most fun national park daytrips we’ve ever taken. If we return, we’ll try to snag a limited camping slot.

Wild Days and Everglade Nights

After a nice evening strolling old Key West and dodging rowdy tourists like we were locals, the next morning we drove north on the famous Overseas Highway. The sparkling Keys were pretty, but we skipped past several promising state parks. We’d reserved the bulk of our trip—four days—at Everglades National Park. At the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, I inquired about maps and conditions for biking and paddling

routes. We obtained plenty of the former, but regarding the latter, we got wide-eyed stares. “We’ll figure it out,” I declared, and I received another stare, this one from my narrow-eyed wife. At Royal Palm, we walked through wetlands with gators and birds and into a forest with gumbo-limbos, a native tree with peeling bark that reminded me of manzanitas and madrones out west. After setting up at Long Pine Key Campground, we hopped on mountain bikes. A 14-mile outand-back ride took us on a mellow dirt path through the Pinelands. This forest of matchstick slash pine represents one of the eight major ecosystems found within the 2,538-square-mile national park, the third largest in the Lower 48. That night, we were getting ready for dinner when the bugs appeared. My wife was organizing her things at the open truck door, so I suggested she get inside quick. Big mistake. “If you rush me, it only takes

longer,” she warned, clearly tired after another long day. I raised my hands in surrender. So, about 2,538 mosquitos joined us inside the truck for the 30-minute drive to dinner. While swatting our way along a rural highway, the wild Everglades night grew in scope. Four dudes in caged UTVs surrounded us, speeding past in the opposite lane and on the shoulder. I stopped at the next intersection, but they ran the sign, and one nearly collided with a farm truck.

Sure Felt Like a Nine Mile Canoe Trail

The next day, we explored the main park road. We saw a dwarf cypress forest. Massive mahogany trees on a hardwood hammock, essentially a vegetated island surrounded by freshwater slough. A preserved Cold War-era missile base. The Flamingo Visitor Center at the edge of buggy Florida Bay. Our main event was paddling the Nine Mile Pond Canoe Trail—

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

supposedly a mellow five-mile loop. We started at 2pm, right as a guided kayak trip returned, figuring we had plenty of time. But perhaps the name is more like a heat index? Because it sure felt like paddling nine miles. The first 1.5 miles involved 30 minutes of easy navigating through fascinating mangrove tunnels. The next three miles felt like paddling through soggy cereal, given the dense mats of periphyton algae. This took three hours. Along the way, we discovered the water-trail markers had been disturbed by past storms and only partly restored. We frequently lost time searching for the route. Typically, the markers would go 10, 11, 12, and so forth, at hundredfoot intervals. But occasionally, the markers would go 54, 55, 55a, 55b, 55c, and onward, with the distance between increasing, up to a quarter mile. With the sun getting low, we started getting worried. We carried a compass and headlamps but did not want to paddle the Everglades after dark. Then the markers went

weird again. “It’s that stupid A, B, C thing!” blurted my exasperated wife. I kicked myself for not kayaking first and doing everything in reverse. Luckily, the periphyton mats soon ended. The markers returned to normal. The final mile was through mangrove tunnels and blackwater lakes. The vibe was saved with a lovely sunset on the water, a scene we would have missed had we not paddled until dusk.

A River of Grass and Ten Thousand Islands

Our final morning, we biked the Shark Valley Tram Road. At the southernmost bend in the 15-mile paved loop, we locked bikes and walked up the observation tower. Built during the Mission 66 era, this modernist cement structure closely resembles the Clingmans Dome tower in the Smokies. From the top deck, we surveyed a vast slough, with freshwater flowing past sawgrass and hardwood hammocks toward the

sea. Called the River of Grass, the poetic name was bestowed by author Marjorie Stoneman Douglas in the 1940s. Her efforts shifted impressions of the Everglades from a worthless swamp that should be drained to a dynamic ecosystem worth preserving. In the northwest corner of the park, we moved camp to the Chokoloskee Island Resort. Then we ferried our kayaks through the currents of Chokoloskee Bay into the Ten Thousand Islands. At mid-tide, some channels were like swift rivers. I really enjoyed eddy hopping from island to island, but my wife found some currents too fast and squirrelly. After exploring 20 islands, we paddled back to Chokoloskee Island and visited the Smallwood Store, a historic trading post and museum.

Encounters with Diseased Monkeys and Solitary Manatees

We had one final stop on our long drive north: Silver Springs State Park. From the campground, we walked

ME CO

trails to the Silver River. There we met a friendly Midwesterner who visits Florida every winter for outdoor adventures. Together, the three of us watched a tree-climbing monkey that likely had herpes. More precisely, a rhesus macaque descended from a troop released on a nearby island in the 1930s by a wacky glass-bottom boat captain. He wanted a tourist spectacle but didn’t realize the macaques had the B virus—and could swim. Today, these wild animals roam parts of Florida. So that all checks out. Our last morning, we launched kayaks into crystal-clear waters on a mission. Silver Springs is definitely on the tourist trail, but the crowd was friendly paddlers. Tangled jungle, draped in Spanish moss, created a beautiful shoreline for two miles. Turning back upstream, we spotted the first one. About ten feet deep. A round gray body and fan-like tail. “Manatee!” chirped my wife. Twenty minutes later, we encountered a herd and baby. As

EXPERIENCE O UR

Riverside Wood-Fired Sauna RIGHT IN THE ♥ OF CHARLOTTESVILLE!

Embrace the elements.

Care for mind & body. PRIVATE AND COMMUNITY SESSIONS AVAILABLE. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. RIVANNARIVERCOMPANY.COM/SAUNA 28

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

the paddling crowd gathered, we split off. So did one massive manatee. We paddled alongside this solitary sea cow for nearly 10 minutes, just the three of us. The water was like aquarium glass. Despite its bulk, the manatee swam gracefully, meandering occasionally, which offered views of its droopy snout and stubbly flippers. My wife and I have paddled across the country, and this was one of the best days yet. Our trip was nearly complete. The long drive north allowed plenty of time to debrief. Was it worth it? Would we ever return? Sure, the highways felt a little dangerous, but there were more parks to visit, more forests to explore, and more manatee-filled rivers to find. When it came to outdoor adventures during wintertime, turns out we were “Florida people” after all. Mike Bezemek is an adventure writer and photographer of stories and books, including Space Age Adventures: Over 100 Terrestrial Sites and Out of This World Stories.

A M A N AT E E AT S I L V E R S P R I N G S S TAT E PA R K .

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

- PARTNER CONTENT -

Peak Pursuits The 2024 BuckeT LisT Start your new year right and embark on an exhilarating journey into the great outdoors with our curated bucket list. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or serene respites, our bucket list is a guide to unlocking the extraordinary experiences in our region. From conquering epic hiking trails to stargazing in secluded wilderness, this list is your passport to a world of awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable outdoor and cultural escapades. Join us as we inspire and encourage you to check off each adventure, one at a time.

HIT A HOLE IN ONE AT FIELDS FERRY GOLF CLUB

Calvert County Government

DIG FOR FOSSILS AT CALVERT CLIFFS STATE PARK CALVERT COUNTY, MD The massive cliffs of Calvert Cliffs State Park dominate the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay for roughly 24 miles in Calvert County, Maryland. They were formed 10-20 million years ago when the area was covered by a warm, shallow sea. When the sea receded, the cliffs were exposed and began eroding. Today these cliffs reveal the remains of prehistoric species, including sharks, whales, rays and seabirds, all of which you can search for and take home! Calvert Cliffs State Park is a day-use park featuring a sandy beach, unique fossils, an accessible recycled tire playground and 13 miles of hiking trails.

VisitCalvert.com/experience

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

CALHOUN, GA Discover a golfer’s paradise at Fields Ferry Golf Club, just a few miles from I-75 in Calhoun. Designed by renowned architect Arthur Davis, this 18-hole course offers a challenging design in a relaxing and well-manicured setting. Ranked among the Top 100 Best In State Golf Courses, it’s a local gem attracting golf enthusiasts from afar. With friendly staff, pristine conditions, and great value, it’s perfect for all types of players. Whether you’re a local or visiting Calhoun, Fields Ferry Golf Club is the ultimate destination for a terrific round of golf.

ExploreGordonCounty.com

Crystal Grottos 3 CREDIT H3 PHOTOGRAPHY

EXPLORE THE UNDERGROUND AT CRYSTAL GROTTOES CAVERNS

Falling Creek Bedford - Photo Courtesy of Destination Bedford.

BOONSBORO, MD The Hagerstown, Maryland area is beautiful inside and out! At Crystal Grottoes Caverns near the Appalachian Trail Town of Boonsboro, visitors can explore Maryland’s only commercially operated cave. It is the most naturally kept cave in the world with its unique geological formations. Thousands of stalactites, stalagmites and helectites are waiting to be discovered as you pass through impressive passageways and open spaces. Temperatures underground are 54 degrees all year round, so it is the perfect activity for cooling off in the summer and keeping warm in the winter! Stay at one of the many cozy bed & breakfasts to complete your trip.

VisitHagerstown.com

HEAD BACK TO SUMMER CAMP AS AN ADULT AT TREMONT INSTITUTE! TOWNSEND, TN Tremont Institute is known for its nature-based summer camps for kids and teens inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but they recently started offering Naturalist Week, a summer camp just for adults. And yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds. From birding to animal tracking, plant identification to cultural exploration, stargazing to splashing in a cold mountain stream, this week-long overnight camp promises to reignite your childlike senses of curiosity and wonder as you live, learn, and play in the nation’s most biodiverse national park. Learn more and sign up at gsmit.org/naturalist-camp.

gsmit.org/naturalist-camp

TRY A ROUND OF DISC GOLF AT A WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE BEDFORD, VA With five public courses, Bedford is a disc golf destination worth a visit. The Blue Ridge scenery, combined with a variety of terrain makes for some of the best disc golf you will play, from beginner and family-friendly to advanced. The newest course, located at New London Business and Technology Center Park, was designed by six-time World Champion Disc Golfer, Paul McBeth, and the 2024 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships will be played here in August 2024. National tournaments are discovering Bedford’s thriving disc golf culture, and so should you!

DestinationBedfordVA.com

VISIT VIRGINIA’S LARGEST LAKE AT SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE

Smith Mountain Lake Jet Skiing - Photo Courtesy of Destination Bedford

BEDFORD, VA Experience adventure and relaxation all in one at Smith Mountain Lake, which features roughly 500 miles of shoreline and endless outdoor recreation. If you are looking for some thrill, rent a boat or jet ski from a local marina, or stick to solid ground with a hike or bike ride along the shore at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. For a more relaxed experience, set out for a leisurely paddle or fishing trip with an experienced guide. Virginia’s largest lake has so much to offer, and is worthy of being on top of your 2024 bucket list!

DestinationBedfordVA.com

HAVE A PICTURE-PERFECT PICNIC AT HUMPBACK BRIDGE & WAYSIDE PARK ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS, VA As one of the most iconic and recognized structures in Virginia, it is clear why so many visitors stop here for a quick photo and to relax. Built in 1857 over Dunlap Creek, Humpback Bridge was once used for vehicular traffic until 1929. Nowadays, it is part of the five-acre Wayside Park, and considered the oldest bridge of its design in the United States. The park is complete with restrooms and picnic tables, and with the historic bridge as a backdrop, the LOVEworks sign here is one of the most unique in the state!

VisitAlleghanyHighlands.com

Annapolis Rock CREDIT John Canan

SLEEP UNDER THE STARS AT ANNAPOLIS ROCK CAMPGROUND BOONSBORO, MD Near the Appalachian Trail Town of Boonsboro, is Annapolis Rock Overlook and nearby Campground. This scenic spot is perfect for those wishing to experience awe-inspiring views and primitive camping or backpacking opportunities. Take the 5 mile out-and-back hike on the Appalachian Trail to the iconic Annapolis Rock, where you can catch glimpses of Greenbrier Lake and Black Rock Cliff. When you’re ready to settle in, the campsite offers about a dozen campsites with breathtaking sunset views, and a natural spring nearby. Be prepared to walk! The campsite is hike-in only, and at an elevation of 1,700 feet, it is considered a moderate hike.

VisitHagerstown.com 32

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

Darren Seay

VISIT ONE OF VIRGINIA’S LARGEST WATERFALLS AT FALLING SPRING FALLS ALLEGHANY HIGHLANDS, VA Located on Route 220, Falling Spring Falls offers visitors a view of a lifetime. The 80-foot waterfall is one of the most captivating and photographed spots in the county, just five miles north of Covington, and for good reason. Thomas Jefferson described the falls as a “remarkable cascade… falling over a rock about 200 feet to the valley below”. Take a glimpse of the falls from the roadway or stay a while. The property has had extensive renovations to the overlook and grounds, including a picnic area, so that visitors can more safely stop and enjoy the view!

VisitAlleghanyHighlands.com

HIKE OFF THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY AT THE PEAKS OF OTTER BEDFORD, VA The Blue Ridge Parkway is iconic for a reason. The spectacular overlooks, exciting hikes, and Appalachian scenery create unforgettable memories. At Peaks of Otter in Bedford, Virginia, you can have a true Blue Ridge adventure with some of the best hikes the mountain range and Virginia have to offer. From strenuous treks like Sharp Top Trail and Flat Top Trail to easier strolls such as Abbott Lake Trail, you will be rewarded with 360-degree views, incredible photo-ops, and a feeling of accomplishment.

DestinationBedfordVA.com

EXPERIENCE VIRGINIA’S SWEETEST EVENT OF THE YEAR AT THE HIGHLAND COUNTY MAPLE FESTIVAL MONTEREY, VA Shake off the winter blues and celebrate the start of spring by being a part of this sweet annual tradition during the second and third weekends in March! Since 1959, visitors have been drawn to the rural mountains of western Virginia for a cultural and culinary adventure. Enjoy the 64th-annual, award-winning, county-wide event with free tours of maple sugar camps, over 100 arts & crafts vendors, delicious food like famous maple donuts and pancake meals, and live entertainment this March 9-10 & 16-17, 2024. Virginia is for Maple Syrup Lovers!

HighlandCounty.org/Maple-Festival DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

Graham Ordinary Meadery Photo Courtesy of Savanah Graham.

TASTE THE WORLD’S OLDEST FERMENTED BEVERAGE ON THE BOTTLED IN BEDFORD TRAIL BEDFORD, VA Discover local wineries, cideries, breweries, and a meadery on the new Bottled in Bedford Craft Beverage Trail. In 10 stops, you can taste some of the finest small batch wine, beer, cider and mead, the world’s oldest fermented beverage, while enjoying the scenery from the vineyards to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Some stops even offer live music, games, and food trucks to keep you properly entertained and fueled.

DestinationBedfordVA.com

GO WHITEWATER RAFTING WITH ADVENTURES ON THE GORGE LANSING, WV Get your adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting trips on both the New River and Gauley River. Adventures on the Gorge will guide you down some of West Virginia’s best whitewater leading you right through the heart of the New River Gorge National Park. With multiple sections of river to choose from, you can find trips for kids as young as 6 up to the most adventurous rafter.

AdventuresOnTheGorge.com

SKI, PADDLE, AND SCUBA DIVE AT LAUREL RIVER LAKE LONDON/LAUREL COUNTY, KY Encompassing 5,600 acres of pristine, deep waters, along with nearly 200 miles of picturesque tree-fringed shoreline, the tranquil inlets and precipitous cliffs of Laurel River Lake provide opportunities for peaceful contemplation, as well as a range of activities like boating, fishing, waterskiing, and scuba diving. Anglers can also enjoy excellent fishing for black bass, walleye, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. At the edge of the Appalachians, and with even more pristine lakes, hiking trails, and rushing rivers to discover, London and Laurel County is truly where adventure begins.

VisitLondon.com

TAKE ON A DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND AT MASSANUTTEN RESORT MASSANUTTEN, VA Along with the new high-speed, detachable lift Peak Express, Massanutten Resort is offering snowsport lovers plenty of exciting features for the 2023/2024 season. Take on the new double black trail “No Hessitation”, which has automated snowmaking and LED lights, and a steep fall line that will increase the challenge factor for advanced skiers and riders. Other newly developed slopes are available to enjoy as well. As always, lessons and rentals are available, and the increased snowmaking pumping capacity provides more snow in less time than ever before!

MassResort.com

HIKE THROUGH HISTORIC BATTLEGROUNDS IN SOUTH CAROLINA OLD 96 DISTRICT, SC Go outside and learn something new! The Old 96 District is home to Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick counties, each with plenty of historic sites to explore. Hike through Revolutionary War battlefields in the Ninety Six National Historic Site, visit “the Birthplace and Deathbed of the Civil War” at Burt-Stark Mansion, and discover the legacy of a Civil Rights Movement leader at Dr. Benjamin Mays Historic Preservation Site. The significant architecture, museums, and cultural sites of Old 96 District are waiting to immerse you in the past.

VisitOld96SC.com

HIKE FIVE 5,000-FEET SUMMITS WITH THE 5 OVER 5000 CHALLENGE SMYTH COUNTY, VA Get your head in the clouds and embark on the hike of a lifetime. Boasting five summits exceeding 5,000 feet, Smyth County’s Five over 5000 Challenge promises a thrilling adventure with awe-inspiring views, wild ponies, and bragging rights. Document your achievement by capturing a photo at each summit. The Challenge comes with no time constraints, allowing you to complete The Hike in a weekend, over a month, or throughout the year! Upon successful completion, challengers will receive stickers and a pin from the Chamber of Commerce office and earn a spot on the Wall of Fame. Are you ready to take on The Hike?

SmythChamber.org/5-over-5000 DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH WILDLIFE ON THE NEW RIVER TRAIL GALAX, VA Nestled in the heart of Galax, Virginia, the New River Trail is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. As you embark on your exploration of the 57-mile linear park, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of pristine wilderness and a sense of serenity that only nature can provide. Catch glimpses of deer, birds, otters, and fish while you walk alongside the waters of the New River. The wildflowers of springtime, such as Dutchmen's breeches, wake robins, and spear thistle, line the trail and create a pastel landscape worth admiring.

GalaxVA.com

RIDE THE RAILS IN MOUNTAIN MARYLAND ALLEGANY COUNTY, MD The Great Allegheny Passage is known for its great cycling and hiking route, but did you know there is also rail biking along the corridor? Departing from Frostburg, Maryland, riders of all ages and abilities can take a 2.5 hour Tracks and Yaks excursion along the historic Western Maryland Railway line. This pedal-powered ride along the smooth railroad tracks, will take you through various points of interest and stunning mountain views. For more adventure, consider the package which includes a 4-mile kayaking experience!

MDMountainside.com

TAKE A SUBTERRANEAN BOAT TOUR AT LOST RIVER CAVE BOWLING GREEN, KY Embark on a captivating journey through natural wonders as you take a boat tour of Lost River Cave. At this underground landmark, a blend of folklore and historical facts converges to weave captivating tales. This cave unfolds as an ancient native hunting ground, a Civil War campground, a refuge for the notorious outlaw Jesse James, and an underground nightclub that swung to the rhythms of the 1930s. The stories that intertwine with this natural wonder create an unforgettable narrative of its rich and diverse history, perfect for the whole family to enjoy. As a non-profit organization, all ticket sales go back to preserving this natural wonder.

VisitBGKY.com 36

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

LEARN TO CROSS COUNTRY SKI IN CANAAN VALLEY WHITE GRASS TOURING CENTER, TUCKER COUNTY, WV Experience the energy and stoke at the most unique and fun cross country ski area on the planet...White Grass in Canaan Valley, West Virginia. For the uninitiated, their bucket list should have a visit to this winter wonderland to take a lesson to learn to cross country ski. Practice on the easy terrain of the "snow farm" and then head straight to the cozy lodge for the best soup that warms your soul and a local beer on tap that raises your courage to go back out. Ski to the sunny Springer Orchard to perfect your snow plow for your next visit which will surely involve a trip up to the top of the mountain.

Whitegrass.com

RUN AMERICA’S TOUGHEST ROAD MARATHON ROANOKE, VA Make your way to Viginia’s Blue Ridge on April 20 for the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon. With an epic 7,430’ of elevation change, this bucket-list run is the toughest road race in the country. Enjoy the open-air race expo and finish festival with live music, craft brews, and wellness vendors. Find sensational live music with the Freedom First Down by Downtown Music Festival taking place in a dozen unique downtown music venues. Dine in top-quality restaurants and explore the art and shopping in the vibrant market area. Then, finish your weekend with America's Slowest 5k presented by Altra. With this recovery race, everyone gets a cup of coffee and a donut, and the last person to finish is the winner. Use code: BROPEAK for 10% off your race registration.

BlueRidgeMarathon.com Chris Greer Photography

HIKE TO GEORGIA’S ONLY BACKCOUNTRY LODGE LEN FOOTE HIKE INN, DAWSON COUNTY, GA Nestled within northern Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest, the Len Foote Hike Inn is a special reward after a hike through lush landscapes. Start your trek from the top of Georgia’s tallest cascading waterfall, Amicalola Falls, before taking a moderate 5-mile trail to the Inn. All you need for your stay is a change of clothes and toiletries, as the Hike Inn supplies everything else, including a complimentary southern family-style dinner and country breakfast. Being only accessible by foot, this LEED-Certified Platinum Facility is a great way to meet new wayward travelers, and disconnect from the modern world to enjoy nature with family and friends.

DestinationDawsonville.com DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

GRAHAM SHARP AND HIS 17-YEAR-OLD SON WA D E . P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F G R A H A M S H A R P

Ready to Rock

After years of ascending the bluegrass charts with Grammy-winning band Steep Canyon Rangers, ace banjo picker Graham Sharp has found a new passion for climbing crags in the Blue Ridge. BY L AUREN S TEPP

IT’S AN EARLY FALL DAY, AND Graham Sharp—founding member of the Grammy-winning bluegrass outfit Steep Canyon Rangers—is hanging off a cliff, clinging to a granite face on Rumbling Bald Mountain in North Carolina’s Chimney Rock State Park. At 75 feet, the sport route— colloquially known as Bear Cub—is relatively short. But it’s stout, and just difficult enough that Sharp’s heart pounds a little faster and his vision narrows. The feeling isn’t unlike what washes over him when he steps on stage to perform for a packed concert venue. “Getting in front of thousands of people is still nerve-wracking,”

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

the musician admits. “But what helps me is to focus on the small things like my breathing or hand positioning instead of all the people out there watching.” Climbing, Sharp says, isn’t all that different. “There’s a lot of crossover,” he notes. “You don’t want to focus on what’s below you or even what’s too far above you. You just want to stay right there in the moment, with your big toe crammed into a tiny, tiny piece of rock, hoping that it’ll take you a little bit higher.” A self-described “climbing novice,” Sharp was introduced to the sport about two years ago when his teenage son Wade joined

the rock climbing club at his high school. A pole vaulter, national cyclo-cross and mountain bike racer, and all-around “meticulous, hard-working athlete,” Wade was determined to master his newest interest. He was also determined for his dad to join in on the fun. “We started taking some of his good friends to Rumbling Bald and spending entire days down there,” says Sharp, who lives in Asheville, about 50 minutes north of the climbing area. The father-and-son duo have also logged quite a few hours at a cheekily named place called The Dump. Nestled off Highway 221 between Blowing Rock and Linville,

the area dishes up a smorgasbord of sandstone cliffs with steep, slabby routes. During their last trip to the area, Wade stepped up as lead climber, which was no easy task. “I don’t think he bit off more than he could chew,” says Sharp. “But it definitely took all of him to pull it off.” Undeterred, Wade is setting his sights on even tougher routes that snake up Stone Mountain, a massive granite dome that rises from the North Carolina foothills. He’s also pushing his dad to climb The Nose, an iconic, 500-foot route on Looking Glass Rock in Pisgah National Forest. As Sharp continues to explore new climbing pursuits, his music

career is heading in some new directions. Earlier this year, Sharp and the rest of the Rangers gathered at the Inn Bat Cave in Bat Cave, N.C., for a week to record the band’s 14th studio album, “Morning Shift.” Officially released on September 8, the record is the first produced in the wake of guitarist and vocalist Woody Platt’s departure. For those unfamiliar with the band’s backstory, Platt, Sharp, and former bassist Charles Humphrey III met in the late 1990s as students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In 2000, the trio officially emerged as Steep Canyon Rangers. A year later, they released their debut album, “Old Dreams and New Dreams.” “We didn’t have a lot of goals for it in the beginning,” says Sharp. “Music was just something we all loved, and things naturally evolved.” That natural evolution has included three collaborative records with comedian and movie star Steve Martin, a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album in 2013, and a spot in the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. Through it all, Platt fronted the group on lead vocals. But last

April, the Brevard native announced he would be stepping away after nearly two decades with the band. (Humphrey departed five years prior.) With Platt gone, the five remaining guys worked their network of music contacts and stumbled upon Aaron Burdett, a singer-songwriter and guitarist based in Saluda, N.C. Three weeks later, Burdett found himself at the Hollywood Bowl performing in front of 18,000 fans alongside the other Rangers. The transition was seamless, says Sharp. “Aaron is a really strong musical personality who has been writing songs for a long time,” he notes. “He brings a deep well of music to us, and it blends perfectly with our style.” “Morning Shift” is a testament to that. According to Sharp, the record delivers the signature Steep Canyon Rangers sound but is more “dynamic.” “As we recorded the album, our producer, Darrell Scott, was intent on making sure that Aaron would sing a song, Barrett [Smith] would sing a song, I would sing a song, and then we would repeat,” he explains. “So, it's different from

other records in that we are all telling stories from our viewpoints.” The songs are also a bit more narrative in nature, says Sharp. “Hominy Valley,” for instance, steps centuries back in time and rehashes General Rutherford’s campaign against the Cherokee during the Revolutionary War. “I live right near the big bend of Hominy Creek here in West Asheville where the English set up camp,” says Sharp, who co-wrote the song with Burdett and Smith. “There’s an apartment complex being built that has caused a big brouhaha in the neighborhood, so the song combines this history of the Cherokee fighting for their land with these modern confrontations of who gets to choose how the land is used.” It’s a lot to pack into a fourminute song, hence why it took Sharp several years to fine-tune the lyrics. He finally experienced a revelation one random night after dinner—an example of how songwriting can happen anywhere and anytime. “I don’t have to be sitting in front of a piece of paper,” he says. “I could be lying in my bed halfasleep. Or I could be walking down

(LEFT) EARLIER THIS YEAR, STEEP CANYON R A N G E R S R E C O R D E D T H E I R 1 4 T H A L B U M AT T H E I N N B AT C AV E . P H O T O B Y J O E Y S E AW E L L | (ABOVE) SHARP AND THE BAND PERFORM. PHOTOS COURTESY OF IVPR

the street.” Though Sharp has yet to write a song while rock climbing, he’s sure that inspiration could strike while he and his son, Wade, are summiting a crag. “My writing process is sort of ongoing and everywhere,” the musician notes. “It’s just a matter of paying attention in the moment.” The Steep Canyon Rangers will perform at The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn., on Saturday, Dec. 9, and the Jefferson Theater in Charlottesville, Va., on January 19. For tickets and a full tour schedule, visit steepcanyon.com.

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

OUTDOOR HAPPENINGS The top outdoor races, festivals, events and experiences in the Blue Ridge and Beyond. Check out some of our top picks here and online at blueridgeoutdoors.com

December 2023 HAPPY WISPMAS December 16 - 17 & 23 - 24, 2023 McHenry, MD Happy Wispmas! Come celebrate the holiday season with us at Wisp Resort, both weekends will be filled with magical adventures for the whole family! *Event is weather dependent WISPRESORT.COM

CHRISTMAS AT WINTERGREEN December 22 - 25, 2023 Nellysford, VA Join us at Wintergreen Resort, where we’ve prepared a lineup of festive activities and mouthwatering dining options for you and your loved ones to enjoy. From Christmas feasts to holiday workshops and seasonal fun, there’s something for everyone to savor during this special weekend. WINTERGREENRESORT.COM

FULL MOON CHRISTMAS EVE SKI TOUR December 24, 2023 Davis, WV Head out at 7:30 pm with all your cross country skiing pals and silently glide through the woods under the special glow of the moon on reflective snow. This ski tour is the perfect way to conclude Christmas Eve and take in the natural beauty of West Virginia’s Canaan Valley. WHITEGRASS.COM

March 2024

RIBS & JIBS, A WINTER FREESTYLE SKI AND SNOWBOARD EVENT January 13, 2024 ALL AGES NEW YEARS PARTY AT WINTERGREEN December 31, 2023 All ages are welcome to ring in 2024 with us in the Upper Crust Banquet Hall! Join us for live music from Mashup & Cozy Condition, 9pm-12:30am. Enjoy savory pizzas, cold beverages and holiday fun while celebrating the New Year. WINTERGREENRESORT.COM

SNOW MOON FEST March 1 - 3, 2024 Massanutten, VA

Wintergreen Resort presents the annual Ribs & Jibs, a Winter Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Event. This year's event will be bigger and better than ever before! Join us for delicious rib specials, friendly competition, great prizes and raffle giveaways from our sponsors.

Kick off festival season at Massanutten! The Snow Moon Fest features three days full of activities including a donut eating contest, a 4K race/walk, a brunch at Campfire Grill, fireworks, music and more. Take the whole family for an unforgettable winter experience.

WINTERGREENRESORT.COM

MASSRESORT.COM

February 2024

NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY AT WISP RESORT December 31, 2023

CUPP RUN CHALLENGE February 5, 2024 Snowshoe, WV

Celebrate the new year at Wisp! After getting your runs in on the slopes, join us for a New Year’s Eve party from 8p-midnight. FREE for all families. Entertainment by Rick K. Roadtrip. Their highenergy, captivating performance will keep you dancing all night long. Activities for kids and families. Food and beverages are available a la carte

The first Monday in February is deeply embedded in snowshoe's history, holding the place for a time-honored tradition: the Cupp Run Challenge. Participants will face 1,500 vertical feet of technical gates and corners down the legendary Cupp Run in this unforgettable experience.

SNOWSHOE PRIDE WEEKEND March 8 - 10, 2024 Snowshoe, WV Who will be named Pride Prom Queen? Who will leave bingo brunch with a new snowboard? Some questions can only be answered at the second annual Snowshoe Pride Weekend. Celebrate with us all weekend long – in the village and on the slopes. SNOWSHOEMTN.COM

WILDERNESS FIRST AID 20-HOUR CERTIFICATION COURSE March 2 - 3, 2024 Charlottesville, VA Learn vital safety skills for outdoor adventures and travel. More dates and courses in Blacksburg, DC, Baltimore, Richmond, Raleigh, Harrisonburg, Farmville, Louisville, Chattanooga, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Tallahassee and more. Also online learning options anytime, anywhere.

SNOWSHOEMTN.COM

SOLOWFA.COM

COLLEGE WEEKEND & POND SKIM March 15 - 17, 2024 A well-rounded education begins on the mountain. Enroll in our renowned academic courses; Gravity 101, Art of Après, Pondside Physics, and A History of Party Fundamentals. While everyone else is spring breaking at the beach you'll be slope-side, surpassing them in academic prowess. SNOWSHOEMTN.COM

WISPRESORT.COM

January 2024 WINTERFEST January 12 - 15, 2024 Hot Springs, VA

PRESIDENTS WEEKEND AT THE OMNI HOMESTEAD RESORT February 16 - 19, 2024 Hot Springs, VA

Celebrate winter weekend at The Omni Homestead Resort. From winter sports and relaxing soaks in the mineral-rich Warm Springs Pools to wine tastings and artisan craft classes there is something for every member of the family.

Join us as we celebrate our presidents with an incredible array of culinary experiences and special activities. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating and more throughout the three-day weekend. Then take time to relax with a soothing soak in the Warm Springs Pools.

THEOMNIHOMESTEAD.COM

JOIN THE MOVEMENT to get the next generation outdoors.

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

Charlottesville, VA

Live Music YOUR SOURCE FOR

Use QR Codes to access venue calendars.

ON THE DOWNTOWN MALL

CONNECT WITH

300,000 +

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Tristan Williams

Jack Looney

Tristan Williams

SIGNS BANNERS FLAGS TENTS

FOR YOUR RACE, EVENTS OR FESTIVALS ORDERS@SIRSPEEDYCHARLOTTESVILLE.COM

434-977-1992

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

Upcoming

The Spring Fishing Issue! Deadline: February 1 RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY

ADVERTISE@BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM/ADVERTISE

TENDING JEREMIAH BY ROBERT MCGEE

I WORK AS A CAREGIVER FOR A young man who spends most of his waking hours in a wheelchair. This involves cooking (and cutting up) his food, transfers to and from the bathroom, changing diapers and clothes, brushing teeth, stretching calves and toes, then moving him safely into bed at night. Jeremiah never complains to me about his situation in life. Rather, he asks about my life—what I did after yesterday’s shift, what my plans are for tomorrow. While I never quite lie, I find myself omitting certain details in hopes of shielding him from potential envy or pain. How might someone without full use of their limbs feel when I mention plans to hike a woodsy trail, cut vines from trees, gather rocks for a fire pit, or simply saunter into a riverside bar for a drink? Since meeting Jeremiah, I’ve become aware of just how much of my life revolves around the freedom to move about whenever I choose. Just walking outside to pee on the compost heap is a luxury I know I should take for granted no more. And yet, I’m only human. One morning I’m silently lamenting having agreed to work three 16-hour shifts in a row. I’m missing mornings at home, missing my ritual of strolling about the garden with that first cup of coffee. I’m craving an entire day to myself in Nature without any plans other than to count geese soaring above, and my goal is to slip away from Jeremiah’s home without conversation. But the daytime caregiver is running late, so when Jeremiah calls out to say he’s awake, I go to his room to help him from bed. As we’re moving into the bathroom, Jeremiah thanks me for staying the extra half hour and tells me that I’m a good person. I don’t mention the selfish thoughts I was having only moments before. I just say that he’s a good person too. When Jeremiah asks

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AUTHOR

what I’ll be doing today, I say I’m looking forward to spending some time in the woods. “Well, I’m looking forward to getting my new wheelchair,” he responds. Not only does the new model have a built-in music system that will allow him to play his favorite tunes, the wheelchair comes with an advanced battery system that’s easier to charge and will reduce my workload at night. I nearly cry when Jeremiah mentions how happy it makes him to improve my life. On the drive home, I can’t get Jeremiah out of my mind. While I’d been selfishly agonizing over all that I missed, he was being grateful for good things to come. I carry Jeremiah in my thoughts as I walk to a bell that hangs from a tree near a stream. This is where I linger most mornings thinking of friends who are dealing with difficulties. I’m not religious, but it’s become my ritual to ring the bell in their honor while sending good thoughts. Today I send these thoughts to Jeremiah, thinking how much I’ve come to admire and appreciate him, how lucky I am that

he entered my life. As I’m thinking all this, the forest comes alive as if we’re in conversation. Leaves dance my way in spirals of joy, and all that’s been bothering me suddenly seems inconsequential. You see, I wasn’t overwhelmed solely from working long hours. My partner is leaving soon to teach overseas. For weeks, we’ve been rushed and disjointed while scurrying about on hectic schedules. There have been minor disagreements surrounding whose turn it is to do this or that chore, and just yesterday in a sleep-deprived state I snapped and said something harsh. She didn’t speak much after this, while I felt guilty for hurting the person I love most in the world. Today I consider all this down by the bell—how, in comparison to lives spent in wheelchairs, most of our problems are minor. I vow that, in the new year, I’m going to be more grateful. Then I decide that I’m not waiting; I’m starting the new year right now. When I emerge from the forest, I discover my partner lacing her shoes in a sunny spot near our

garden. I haven’t seen her for three days, and I’m awestruck by her beauty. She looks dazzling, refreshed—luminous, really—and I hold her in my gaze, thinking, How lucky we are! I kneel beside her in pretty much the same position where I kneel each evening when I tend to Jeremiah. As I place my hands upon the strong thighs my partner uses to power herself on gazelle-like runs through the woods, she smiles to let me know that my recent missteps and poorly chosen words are forgiven. “You look ten years younger than when I last saw you,” I say. “Did you sleep extra last night?” “No,” she responds as she stands and begins to bounce like a teen on nimble legs. “I’ve been up for hours making a gratitude list.” Then without saying more, my partner sets off on her run. I watch as she leans into—then merges with— the wind and the forest as she gathers speed and appears to float over pine needles and leaves. I marvel at the smallest of things—which might not be so small after all.

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

Gift a Subscription Buy a Gift Subscription for $25 between now and December 11th to get a fun gift tote in time for the holidays

Get your tote bag today at blueridgeoutdoors.com 44

215 West Imboden St., Damascus VA 24236

276-475-3745 | www.DamascusInn.com

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS Damascus-4x4ad.indd 1

10/17/23 2:41 PM

T H E M I L K Y WAY C O R E R I S E S O V E R F A L L F O L I A G E O F F T H E B L U E R I D G E PA R K WAY N E A R A S H E V I L L E , NORTH CAROLINA. PHOTO BY TIM REEVES

Chasing the Milky Way

An experienced photographer offers a primer on how and where to take the best night sky pics in the Blue Ridge. BY TIM REEVES

On summer nights when the moon is absent and the weather is clear, I go chasing the Milky Way. I feel a deep sense of joy and wonder at being able to capture light from unimaginably far away, and it’s so satisfying to slowly coax brilliant color and detail out of what, to the naked eye, looks like a faint gray smudge in the darkness. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking to try something new or a novice ready for an inspiring growth challenge, Milky Way photography brings the “wow” factor, and it’s a fantastic way to get a cosmic perspective on the great outdoors. If you’re interested in learning more, winter is the time to plan, learn the techniques, and make sure you have the right gear. Here are the basics of Milky Way photography, ignoring advanced imaging

T H E F U L L M I L K Y WAY A R C H S T R E T C H E S ABOVE A WILDFLOWER FIELD OFF THE BLUE R I D G E PA R K WAY N E A R B R E VA R D , N O R T H CAROLINA. PHOTO BY TIM REEVES

techniques. I won’t get into processing, but I’ll leave some tutorial recommendations at the end, as well as recommendations for apps to help plan your adventure.

WHERE AND WHEN TO GO

In our part of the world, the Milky Way core—full of the brightest and most dynamic nebulosity— stays above the horizon for much of the night in summer in the southeastern to southwestern sky. The best conditions for Milky Way photography are moonless nights with clear skies from March to November. You’ll need to travel far from city lights, to dark areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains like those found along remote stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Check lightpollutionmap.info or the Facebook group BlueRidgeDarkway for location ideas. I’ll spare stargazers the disappointment by saying that none of the beautiful images you

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

see of the Milky Way, even from dark sky locations, look like that with the naked eye. The naked-eye Milky Way can be quite striking, but the color and detail in these images is a result of long exposure photography.

SHOOTING WITH A CELL PHONE

Some of the most recent and powerful smartphones are capable of shooting the Milky Way, but you will need to use your native camera app’s “pro mode” or search for an app that gives you full manual control of the phone’s camera, like NightCap Camera for iOS or DeepSkyCamera for Android. Use the same exposure time, aperture, and ISO settings as those mentioned below, if possible. The phone needs to remain perfectly still while shooting. You can lean the phone on a rock or other sturdy object, but a tripod with a smartphone attachment is much better. Use the app’s self-timer function at five or 10 seconds, since pressing the shutter button causes movement.

SHOOTING WITH A DSLR OR MIRRORLESS CAMERA For best results, use a DSLR or mirrorless camera capable of full manual control, a wide-angle lens (12-35mm) with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or lower), a sturdy tripod, and a headlamp. Set up your gear before full dark so you can find a great foreground. Since you’ll be focusing to near infinity, make sure any foreground objects are decently far from the camera, or they’ll appear noticeably out of focus in the final image. When the first stars appear, point the camera at the brightest star you see and use the monitor screen on the back of the camera to manually focus on it. Most cameras have some sort of manual focus assistance that digitally zooms in on the object. Set the focus assist to its highest magnification and move the focus ring in and out until the star is at its smallest. Ideal settings vary based on focal length, but a good start is

15-30 seconds of exposure, your lowest f-stop number for the aperture, and ISO in the 1600-6400 range. Make sure your file mode is set to “RAW.” This is crucial, because you have to process the image yourself, and RAW mode gives you the greatest amount of data and the greatest range of editing capabilities. Set your white balance to “daylight.” Turn off “long exposure noise reduction” in your camera settings, and switch off any image stabilization, since this setting can actually hurt sharpness when you’re using a tripod. Use a 10-second self timer or a remote shutter. Make sure you take a test shot and review it closely to make sure your settings and focus are producing pinpoint stars without obvious trails. You can take one photo and call it a night, but I recommend taking many of the same photo in case planes, satellites, or passing cars get in the way. It’s easy to miss these things in the field. Don’t be discouraged if your first few shots are duds. Keep shooting and enjoy the chase.

Top Software, Apps, and Websites Lightpollutionmap.info As the name suggests, this site shows a map of light pollution. Use it to plan your trip. Nps.gov Here you can find a page that shows any closures on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Weather.gov High-quality forecasts and satellite imagery of the area you’re considering. Clear Outside app Shows the windows of time when weather and moon conditions will be favorable. PhotoPills app Planning and visualization tools, sun and moon information, calculator for optimal exposure length based on focal length and

camera sensor. Stellarium app Sky map to better visualize how the sky will look at night. AllTrails app For wayfinding if you’re hiking to your shooting spot. YouTube.com There are tons of great tutorials for picking locations, shooting, and processing, as well as gear comparisons and recommendations. Alyn Wallace, Nightscape Images, Milky Way Mike, and Lonely Speck are just a few good channels. Darksky.org For information about dark sky parks and how to get involved in protecting our dark skies.

If you can dream it, we can BRAND it. From T-shirts, uniforms, and baseball caps, to promo products, trade show booths and event signage BRG is your go to supplier for everything branded.

SCREEN PRINTING EMBROIDERY WEB STORES PROMO ITEMS

BRG is a certiﬁed Sustainable Green Printer!

Contact your account rep or visit brgtshirts.com to get started.

Visit our website to learn more.

0623-9352328144

434-296-9746 | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

- PARTNER CONTENT -

WINTER ADVENTURE As the temps get cooler and the days get shorter, winter unveils a magical playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The Mid-Atlantic and southern landscapes become a canvas for a myriad of winter activities that promise both adventure and tranquility. From exhilarating skiing and snowboarding to cozy small-town getaways, this enchanting region offers something for every winter enthusiast. Use this guide to discover unforgettable seasonal experiences for you and the whole family to enjoy.

A COZY MOUNTAIN ESCAPE IN CHARLOTTESVILLE & ALBEMARLE COUNTY, VA The rolling hills and mountains of Charlottesville and Albemarle County adorned with glistening frost creates a postcard-perfect scene that’s ideal for winter photography and outdoor activities. Although temps may be dropping, Charlottesville is the ultimate basecamp for your outdoor excursions and for seasonal thrills. Before embarking on your cozy winter escape, indulge in a visit to a charming local cafe or bakery, where you can savor delightful treats and hot beverages to warm your spirit. Nearby Shenandoah National Park offers stunning winter hiking and snowshoeing trails, while the Blue Ridge Parkway reveals breathtaking vistas of the tinted mountains. The quieter winter months make for less crowds and more tranquil treks. Many other outdoor activities enjoyed throughout the year are just as fun to do in the winter too! Cycling, horseback riding with Indian Summer Guide Service, and even golfing are possible and not as busy. If you are looking for a winter-specific experience, Winter Wander at Boar’s Head Resort takes place throughout the month

of December and features a new synthetic ice skating rink. This is perfect for the whole family to celebrate the winter season and get in a festive mood. WARM RETREATS

Rivanna River Company has what you need after a long day of cool activities. With a new rustic riverside sauna opening this winter, complete with a locally-fueled wood stove and a “nature-based cold plunge”, your body will thank you for the much needed rest and relaxation. Wind down the day in Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year! The 40+ wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail offer an unforgettable winter experience. Sipping on a glass of locally produced wine by a cozy fireplace, while enjoying the snow-covered vineyards is a memory to last a lifetime. When your glass is empty, settle into a warm bed at the winery itself, with sip and stay lodging options, or at one of the many accommodations the area has to offer, from luxurious resorts and hotels, to comfortable inns and bed and breakfasts.

VisitCharlottesville.org

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

SPEEDWAY IN LIGHTS CREDIT EARL NEIKIRK

DOWNTOWN CREDIT EARL NEIKIRK3

BRIS TOL SIGN SN OW CREDIT JARED KREISS

DAZZLING WINTER DISPLAYS IN BRISTOL, TN/VA Bristol is a beautiful destination any time of the year, with various winter activities to help you get into the festive mood. Whether you prefer a relaxed pace or crave some excitement, Bristol has an array of winter adventures for folks of all ages. LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

One of the most popular events in the city is The Pinnacle Speedway In Lights, held at Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway. This annual tradition is the premier holiday light show in the region and features a four-mile drive-through route around the half-mile oval and through Thunder Valley. The event showcases over three million lights and dozens of animated light displays, including the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies’ Sea of Illumination and Race to Space. Speedway In Lights attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually, who can experience the Christmas Village stop in the BMS infield. The kids can enjoy rides, arts and crafts, hot chocolate, food, and meet Santa Claus. The event runs from Nov.

17 to Jan. 6. After gazing at the lights, you can enjoy ice skating. The rink is one of the few in the area and is a favorite for people of all ages. You can bring your skates or rent a pair to showcase your skills every day from Nov. 16 to Jan. 14. Downtown Bristol is always dazzling during winter, particularly during the holidays. State Street, which is in Tennessee and Virginia, is beautifully decorated, and the Christmas Tree Village is always fun to check out. Trees are displayed in multiple locations, including the Downtown Center, Cumberland Square, and Anderson Park. The downtown area also offers plenty of shopping opportunities and several top-notch locally owned restaurants, craft breweries, and distilleries. It’s also home to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, which features a store filled with handcrafted items.

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR FESTIVITIES

Located downtown is the majestic Paramount Theater, which features a variety of shows throughout the winter. Beginning in November, you can catch Kathy Mattea, Joan Osborne, Henry Rollins, Chi-Town Transit Authority – Tribute to Chicago, Louis Black, The Nutcracker (performed by the Bristol Ballet), Soultown to Motown – Tribute to Motown, and even an appearance by major league great Pete Rose. Theatre Bristol, established in 1965, is a community theater focused on reaching children performers and audiences and is always a fun outing. During

the holidays, you can enjoy “A Christmas Carol” on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Nov. 17 to Dec. 17. If you’re in need of last-minute gifts, The Pinnacle is the largest retail shopping destination in the region, featuring Belk, Bass Pro, Marshalls, Dicks Sporting Goods, and many other stores. You will also find a variety of dining options and entertainment experiences, including Just Jump’s trampoline park and Pinnacle 12 by Marquee Cinemas, which features two 71-foot Marquee Extreme Cinemas with Dolby Atmos sound and incredibly comfortable recliners. Additionally, you can visit Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro, where

kids can take a photo with Santa and mail him letters. Another holiday shopping destination is The Falls, located along I-81 in Bristol, VA, offering a variety of shopping and dining options. Feeling lucky this Christmas? Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol temporary casino offers 870 slots, table games, restaurants, entertainment and live music! If you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, especially during snowfall, the Mendota Trail, South Holston Dam, Steele Creek Park and Sugar Hollow Park each offer stunning winter scenery. ExploreBristol.com

DOWNTOWN CREDIT EARL NEIKIRK6

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

A HOST OF HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AT THE OMNI HOMESTEAD RESORT, VA Nestled in the picturesque Allegheny Mountains of Hot Springs, Virginia, The Omni Homestead Resort is a timeless destination that offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty. As a place where presidents and dignitaries have sought refuge for over two centuries, The Omni Homestead invites you to indulge in an unparalleled getaway that seamlessly weaves together tradition, opulence, and adventure. WINTER C ARNIVAL IN NEWPORT NEWS

WINTER FUN IN THE SUN IN NEWPORT NEWS, VA

WINTER SWAN IN NEWPORT NEWS PARK

Don’t let cooler winter temps end your warm weather fun! In Newport News, Virginia, extreme cold and snowfall are rare, making winter a fun time to enjoy experiences in the city. HIKING, GOLFING, AND BIRDING

At Newport News Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country with 7,000+ acres, hikers, bikers, bird watchers, wildlife viewers, anglers, boaters, and Sunday strollers can delight in over 30 miles of trails. Winter camping is also an option, with a 180-site campground and full service Visitor Information Center. Other popular walking paths in the city include the Noland Trail at The Mariners’ Museum and Park and the five-acre fountain in City Center at Oyster Point! Golfers love Newport News due to the ability to play a round, year-round! Tee off at Newport News Golf Club at Deer Run and Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort for a fun day out with some friends. Due to Newport News’ diverse wildlife, bird-watching is popular, especially during migration season. Since 1965, The Hampton Roads Bird Club has monitored the bird population of Newport News Park, and a free “Bird Walk” occurs twice a month year-round! Join club volunteers

every first and third Sunday of the month for some early morning birding. Beginners are welcome, and binoculars and field guides are recommended. GET IN THE WINTER SPIRIT

While temperatures may be mild, Newport News still knows how to embrace the winter season. From noon to 5 pm on Feb. 3, a Winter Carnival will be held at the corner of Warwick Boulevard and Oriana Road. The event will feature a synthetic ice-skating rink, carnival games, food trucks, arts and crafts, a DJ, photo ops, and more! Admission and parking are FREE. For those rare wintry days, consider checking out the many museums and cultural centers the area has to offer, like the Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center, or head to the movie theaters, shopping centers, spas, and art studios for shopping, relaxation, and entertainment. There are also plenty of cozy cafes and coffee shops to step into for a warm drink.

Newport-News.org

Hit the slopes for a true winter escape! The Omni Homestead’s Mountain Lodge offers ski and snowboard rental equipment. Lessons for all experience levels are available through the Sepp Kober Ski School for those aged 4+, as well as private and group lessons. The Little Penguins Program is perfect to introduce kids to the sport while still having fun! Try your skills on the Upper Main run, which is just steep enough to provide a bit of confidence building for novice skiers and riders, but also provides a great view of the valley. Consider visiting during one of the many events The Homestead hosts. MLK Jr. Weekend, from January 12-15, and Presidents Weekend, from February 16-19, has activities for the whole family to enjoy. WHAT’S NEW

The resort has recently completed a $150 million renovation which includes all 483 guest rooms, public spaces, meeting facilities and restaurants!

APRES SKI

Stick around the Resort for more activities off the slopes like carriage rides, trap, skeet, sporting clays, ice skating, tubing, archery, and The Homestead S’mores Express. Unwind and relax with a massage, facial, or body treatment at The Spa at The Omni Homestead. The little ones can try out some mini snowmobiles at the ski area, while the whole family can enjoy ice skating, swimming, and arcade games in the family game area! The Omni Homestead Resort and the surrounding area is where history meets hospitality in a setting of timeless elegance. Soaking in the Warm Springs Pools is the ultimate apres ski activity. The naturally warm, mineral rich waters are refreshing and soothing. Enjoy a specially curated flight of Virginia wines or purchase a bottle to take home at The Virginia Wine Experience, another popular destination after a day on the slopes.

OmniHotels.com/Hotels/Homestead-Virginia

RESORT RUNDOWN

• Expected Opening in Late December • 24 inches of average snowfall • 3 beginner, 5 intermediate, and 1 expert trail

HIKIN G TRAIL S IN NEWPORT NEWS PARK

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

Cold-Weather Camping Tips Even if you can’t stand frigid air, you can still comfortably pitch a tent and sleep under the stars when the temperature drops. BY MARY BETH SKYLIS

PHOTO BY THE AUTHOR

ARE YOU SOMEONE WHO HATES the cold? If so, sleeping in the backcountry when the temperatures turn frigid probably sounds miserable. Fortunately, there are ways to increase the warmth of your camping gear, ultimately giving you the chance to camp during a time of year when crowds are sparse.

1. Make the Right Sleeping Pad and Tent Choices

If you’re new to camping and backpacking, it can be easy to overlook the importance of your entire sleep system. While the sleeping bag is a vital piece of gear, the sleeping pad and tent also play important roles in retaining warmth. The sleeping pad is designed to insulate your body from the ground. Like the sleeping bag, it comes with a temperature rating, or an “R-Value.” The higher the R-value, the warmer the sleeping pad. Instead of opting to use a cheaper, barely insulated sleeping pad, look for a sleeping pad with an R-value of 3 or higher. When it comes to tents, smaller options are easier to heat and keep warm. If you expect to regularly

camp in cold temperatures, it may be prudent to spend the extra money on a 4-season tent. They’re typically built with sturdier poles and other features to withstand extreme weather, but they also usually weigh more than threeseason tents.

3. Use Your Rainfly

2. Let Your Sleeping Bag Get Lofty

4. Share Your Tent with Someone Else

The first thing you should do when you get to your campsite is take your sleeping bag out of its storage sack. The loftier it is, the better it’ll be at retaining your body heat when it’s time for bed. This is also a good time for re-distributing the down to avoid cold spots. Since down tends to shift throughout the sleeping bag over time, it can be helpful to move it around before you go to bed. Additionally, some sleeping bags come with features that add extra warmth, like a hood and draft collar. If you tend to sleep cold, using these can make a big difference. If you don’t have a hood, make sure to wear a hat since 4045% of the body’s heat escapes through the head.

While it can be tempting to leave the rainfly in its storage sack so you can watch the stars at night, doing so can sacrifice essential heat. A rainfly can add 5-10-degrees of warmth to a tent, making it a great tool for those who run cold.

Body heat goes a long way, which means sharing a tent with a good pal or partner will heat the interior faster than it would if you were alone. Some campers even find that zipping two sleeping bags together and sharing the system makes it easier to insulate the airspace surrounding their bodies, contributing to a warm night’s rest.

5. Avoid Going to Bed While You’re Cold

Your body is your main heat source while you’re camping and backpacking, so you need to make sure it’s good and warm before you go to bed. Eat a hot high-calorie meal, drink a cup of tea, or do some jumping jacks to get your blood pumping. This will help you create enough heat to

keep yourself warm once you crawl into your sleeping bag.

6. Pack a Sleeping Bag Liner

Campers and backpackers typically use sleeping bag liners for one of two things: a hygienic barrier or an added layer of insulation. Sleeping bag liners come in a wide range of temperature ratings, allowing you to add anywhere from 10 to 25 degrees to your sleep system. This is a great option for those who aren’t quite ready to upgrade their sleeping bags.

7. Don’t Forget Your Nalgene

Many ultralight campers and backpackers choose to leave their sturdy Nalgene water bottle at home to cut down on pack weight. But when the temperatures start to drop, a Nalgene can double as a heating device. Just fill it up with boiling water before you go to bed, and tuck it into the footbox of your sleeping bag to generate a little bit of extra warmth. In a well-insulated bag, it will likely stay warm until morning.

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

THE OUT AND BACK

RAISE THE STAKES

TWO KINDS OF PEOPLE BY G R A H A M AV E R I L L

YOU COULD SAY THAT THERE are two kinds of people in this world: those that stake the corners of the tent down before erecting the poles, and those that slide the poles through the tent sleeves first and stake the corners of the tent down last. Of course, there are so many other kinds of people in this world—there are people who have someone else pitch their tent, people who glamp, people who sleep in a hammock…hell, there are even people who have never pitched a tent once in their life and have no desire to start the process now, thank you very much. But I’m talking about people who matter here, and among people who matter, there are two kinds of people: those who stake first, and those who stake last. It seems like a simple difference that should have no true consequence on one’s life or identity, but the process by which you erect a tent says a lot about who you are as an individual. Staking the edges first implies that you are confident enough to know, without a doubt, that the spot you picked out for your tent will be the perfect spot, even after it’s fully erected. Some might call that unwavering confidence “arrogance.” Staking the tent last implies that you’re a bit more whimsical and prone to changing your mind, and maybe after you get the poles inside the tent sleeves and see the thing in all its glory, you’ll want to move it to a slightly different location. Some might call that indecision “flighty.” “Stakes first” people are rule followers. “Stakes last” people think rules are cute suggestions. “Stakes first” people have 401(k)s. “Stakes last” people are relying on sandwich loyalty punch cards as a retirement plan. Other than being in agreement that camping is awesome, “stakes first” people probably will not see eye to eye with “stakes last” people

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

on a lot of issues. For instance, there’s a good chance that everyone in the “stakes last” camp insists on torching their marshmallows on the end of the stick when they’re making s’mores, while everyone in the “stakes first” group probably roasts their marshmallows slowly, careful to caramelize the sugar treat but not burn it. “Stakes first” people like Pearl Jam, “stakes last” people like Nirvana, and they’ll slap any fool who disagrees. It should be noted here that the printed instructions on all tents expressly tell you to stake down the corners of said tent first. Don’t believe me? Go find your tent and look at the instructions sewn to the inside of the stuff sack right now. It’s right there in black and white. It should also be noted that I have been firmly planted in the “stakes last” group of people my entire life. It’s odd, because I was raised by a “stakes firster.” Perhaps my late-staking tendencies are an act of rebellion? I also burn my marshmallows, have been described often as “flighty,” and, if I’m being completely honest, won’t even bother staking down my tent half the time.

Yes, I’ve read the directions on the tent, analyzing the graphic that clearly shows how you should stake the corners of the tent down first, then slide the poles into place. But I’ve always considered those directions to be either A) a misprint; Or B) a trap. I’ve also always considered people who stake down their tent before erecting it to be psychotic if not outright criminals. I am a “stakes last” or die kind of guy. Nirvana over Pearl Jam. Burnt marshmallows all day. Or so I thought. I was camping recently with a group of new friends, one of whom is a “stakes firster.” I mumbled some disparaging comment about his kind under my breath as we were setting up our two-person tents, and he challenged me to a competition. I pitch my tent stakes last, he pitches his tent stakes first, the person with the tautest tent wins. We had identical structures, so there could be no mistake about the victor. The gauntlet was thrown. He might as well have slapped me across the face with a glove and questioned my civility as a gentleman. The duel was on. We each went to work erecting our tents in our own methods, and

when we finished and stepped back from our temporary abodes, the results were undeniable: his tent was significantly tauter than mine. Not only that, but he had an easier time getting his poles through the sleeves and erecting his tent with his corners staked first. I was dumbfounded. My entire belief system had been shattered in a matter of minutes, and it hit me hard. My whole life, I had been pitching tents the wrong way, but my near-religious fervor had blinded me. I’d even taught my own children to pitch tents the wrong way. I had been positive that “stakes firsters” were monsters, but in reality, I was the monster. I’ve been questioning a lot of things since that fateful day. What else have I gotten wrong in my life? Should I take more care when roasting marshmallows? Are sandwich loyalty programs not a viable retirement plan? Dear god, have I been wrong about Pearl Jam this whole time? I don’t know anything anymore. If anyone needs me, I’ll just be here questioning my own existence while listening to the album “Ten” over and over.

JAMIE APONTE

MIKE HECK

TOM ROSENBAUER

TONY BASSO

CILLA JOHNSON

ALLEN RUPP

BEAU BEASLEY

BOB LINDQUIST

IAN & CHARITY RUTTER

GEORGE DANIEL

STEVE MALDONADO

JENA SMOLKO

JOHN DEMUTH

JULIE MATTSON

ANGELICA TALAN

KIRK DEETER

LANDON MAYER

TIM URTIAGA

GARY DUBIEL

KIM RANALLA

ASHLEY WILMONT

*CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

SHANNON YOUNG

l ua

REAL PEOPLE. LIVE INSTRUCTION.

rd A nn 23

January 13-14, 2024 Doswell, Virginia

vaflyfishingfestival.com ENTER TO

WIN FLY CASTING VIRGINIA

COMPETITION Win a Hardy Fly Rod!

2024 SPONSORS

“..An Americana masterpiece..” OF

HIGH QUALITY

LOW WASTE

SUSTAINABLE APPAREL

GIFTS FOR EVERYONE DAILY DEALS → NOV 4 - DEC 23

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

THE GOODS

2024 ESSENTIALS

TVLA

ITIWIT/DECATHLON

GEAR FOR THE NEW YEAR Yeah, you made those resolutions to get outdoors more in 2024. Now, how do you keep them? The commitment is up to you—but we have gear to make it easier to make them happen.

GERBER

RAB

BOTE

BY D O U G S C H N I T Z S PA H N

TVLA

The Align[Mat] Cork Resolution: Kick your asanas up a level. Not only does this beautiful yoga mat give you artfully rendered guidelines to help you stay aligned while you practice, the cork surface is grippy and soft. That means you can practice without a mat towel (even if you sweat buckets) and get a better feel for the surface. It will make you want to go to yoga class. $85; tvlashop.com

UBCO

2x2 Electric Bike Resolution: Use less gas. This electric motorcycle from the wilds of New Zealand gives you the ability to ride roads and trails without spewing out exhaust. And it’s designed to haul a bunch of gear (up to 330 pounds carry weight) with you thanks to well-balanced front and rear racks. Tipping the scales at about 150 pounds, the bike crushes in gnarly terrain up to 30 mph and claims a 75mile range (though plan for a bit less). Explore on it straight out the door or head out from a basecamp in the woods. $4,999; ubco.com

Gerber

Around Camp Kit Resolution: Be the most prepared in camp. Need help organizing? Including a cleaver, a slimmed down multi-tool with a corkscrew, and Gerber’s all-in-one fork/spoon/spatula system gives you everything you need for the personal camp kitchen ready to go. Plus, you save a bit of change buying it all in one package. $100; gerbergear.com

UBCO SOLO STOVE

Bote

OUTDOOR RESEARCH

Breeze Aero 11’6” Resolution: Get out on the water. Keep saying you want to get out paddling more but don’t have the space to store or transport a big, stable SUP? No longer an acceptable excuse. This affordable inflatable package includes board, pump, paddle, repair kit, and travel bag. The big board itself weighs just 22 pounds and handles well on the lake or mellow downriver trips. $902; boteboard.com

Rab

Mythic G Resolution: Stay cozy. Feeling too cold to brave winter up in the hills or at the crag? This goose-down filled beauty will ensure you stay cozy—without restricting your movement and making you feel big and unwieldy. Designed to maximize heat retention yet weighing under 10 ounces, this is the perfect jacket for everything from ice climbing to winter hiking to kicking it at a backyard fire pit. $535; rab.equipment

Outdoor Research

Deviator Hoodie Resolution: Keep active all year long. Stretchy and bolstered with just enough warmth, this do-it-all piece is the ticket to continuing to run, hike, and play no matter the weather. The VerticalX Octa technology works differently than your usual insulation, breathing far better so you don’t need to worry about sweating it out yet still retaining heat when the temps drop. $229; outdoorresearch.com

Solo Stove

Pi Prime Pizza Oven Resolution: Up your pizza game. Nothing beats that cheesy Italian goodness straight out of the oven in your backyard or camp. The problem is many camp pizza ovens are tricky to manage. Not so with the propane-fueled Pi Prime, which makes it easy to rotate that pie as it cooks and provides the heat to achieve pizza perfection. $300; solostove.com

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

SALOMON

SUUNTO RACE

JACKERY

VEER

SCARPA

MINUS 33 KONA JETBOIL

Jackery

Explorer 2000 Plus Resolution: Live life off the grid for a bit. One looming problem that keeps you from spending more time outdoors: You have to work. Take the office with you (yes, that sounds bad but it’s better than staying at home) with this portable power station that can run anything you need out in the wild from power tools to laptops. Or forget work—this baby can charge your e-bike, providing 6000W/24KWh that can be recharged via solar panels, wall outlets, or carports. If you want to live off the grid for a bit, it’s there to keep everything running for up to two weeks. $2,199; jackery.com

Kona

Coco Resolution: Bike more instead of driving. Bike commuting isn't just good for the planet—it’s fun! And the sleek step-thru Coco is a bike anyone can enjoy. With internal cables and punctureresistant tires, this ride won’t require much maintenance or worry and it offers nine speeds of smooth shifting to take on climbs and cruise the bike path in style. $829; konaworld.com

Jetboil

Genesis Basecamp Resolution: Cook better on the trail. Bored by the simplicity of the standard camp stove? This clever two-burner will get you crafting more complex meals in the wild or just heating up coffee at the same time as you simmer breakfast. Providing 10,000 BTUs on those two burners, it comes complete with a fry pan and cook pot that nestle together with the stove and stash easily into your pack. $400; jetboil.johnsonoutdoors.com

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

JBL

Salomon

Elixir GTX Resolution: Hike more. Designed for thru-hikers but comfy enough for casual day hikes, this plush kick with a waterproof membrane will become your shoe of choice every time you hit the trail. The big-rockered sole gives plenty of support—and confidence—ticking off miles, scrambling up loose rock, and even tromping through snow. Best of all, the lacing system stays secure. $190; salomon.com

JBL

Minus 33

White Mountain Sportsman Shirt Resolution: Look the part. This wool shacket is the type of thing you can wear chopping wood, casting for brookies, walking the pup, or just out on a casual date with someone of the outdoor mindset. It layers up or works well with just a tee underneath. $200; minus33.com

Scarpa

Tour Pro 2 Resolution: Tune it all out (and in). Sometimes you just want to simply have some time to yourself with your music—be it on the trail or on a long ride in the back of the van on the way there. These noise-canceling headphones adjust on the fly to get rid of background noise or you can set them in an app-controlled ambient mode to stay the right level of alert in your surroundings. $250; jbl.com

Ribelle Run XT Resolution: Put down some serious miles. Here’s a shoe that can serve as both a trail runner and a hiker, giving you no excuses for getting out there no matter your mood. Weighing 12.8 ounces per shoe in a Euro size 42, but beefed up with a full-perimeter rand and extended toe wrap, this kick can handle remote scrambles and still feel comfy simply sashaying smooth singletrack. $179 ($199 with Gore membrane); scarpa.com

Suunto Race

Veer

Resolution: Train for success. Your ultimate training buddy is right here on your wrist in the form of this high-performance training tool that provides feedback calculated from your heart rate variability (HRV) and will run for up to 40 hours on a charge with all systems—including GPS—pumping. But our favorite thing about this wrist-op coach is the easy-to-read display and common sense interface. $449; suunto.com

Basecamp Resolution: Get the kids out. A day out can be a lot for the little ones—but don’t stay home. This simple, easy-to-pitch popup tent for tots provides shelter from the sun and bugs, a playhouse, and a spot to nap that you can take anywhere. With space for three to four little ones it packs down to yoga-mat size and weighs just seven pounds. $129; goveer.com

CBN RELAX GUMMIES

RELAX

Our pure, infused, 250 mg CBN gummies are becoming a very popular cannabinoid for sleep issues. It is a great alternative to Melatonin that doesn’t leave you groggy.

albemarlecannabiscompany.com DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

TRAIL MIX

FRESH TRACKS

OUR FAVORITE SONGS IN DECEMBER

New Music from the Blue Ridge and Beyond BY J E D D F E R R I S A N D DAV E S TA L L A R D

EVERY MONTH OUR EDITORS curate a playlist of new music, mainly focusing on independent artists from the South. In December we’re highlighting new tracks from Kurt Vile and Future Islands, plus a Christmas tune from My Morning Jacket.

KURT VILE RETURNS WITH THE NEW EP “BACK TO MOON BEACH” ON NOVEMBER 1 7 . P H O T O B Y A D A M WA L L A C AVA G E

TOADIES

“Since U Been Gone” Most people know Toadies as one-hit wonders who gave us the creepy alt-rock earworm “Possum Kingdom” back in the mid-90s. But down in Texas the band is a longrunning institution, and the group’s streaming numbers are bound to get a bump from this gritty, growly cover of Kelly Clarkson’s mainstream hit “Since U Been Gone.” The cut comes from a new compilation called Texas Wild, which features notable artists from the Lone Star State covering each other’s tunes to benefit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation. – J.F.

MY MORNING JACKET

“Feelin Sorry” My Morning Jacket has a holiday song for those feeling a little lonely during the festive season. “Feeling sorry for myself on Christmas Day/ Oh why do the holidays always make me feel this way?,” sings front man Jim James, while some E Street Band-style sax deepens the mood of the melancholy rock tune. The new track comes from an expanded reissue of the band’s “Happy Holiday!” EP, which drops on November 24. – J.F.

DANIEL DONATO

“Hi-Country” Psychedelic songsmith Daniel Donato has made a name for himself by showcasing his prodigious guitar

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

talents via a blend of improvisational jam rock and vintage honky tonk. Donato’s latest single, “Hi-Country,” is a vehicle designed for sonic exploration; after kicking off with some vintage guitar tones, the entire song is riff heavy, with guitar, organ, piano, and pedal steel all taking turns escalating the energy in this ode to getting out of the city and into wide open spaces. – D.S.

KURT VILE

“Another good year for the roses” Kurt Vile’s penchant for keeping a chill pace is intact on this easygoing track that features spacey textures and an overall warm ambiance. Vile delivers another dose of his slacker poetry in slow motion, as “Another good year for the roses” finds a hypnotic groove before spiraling into a psychedelic jam towards its conclusion. The song comes from “Back to Moon Beach,” which Vile is calling a new EP, but with nine tracks and a run time that crests 60 minutes, it’s more like a full-length album. It comes out November 17. – J.F.

NEFESH MOUNTAIN

“More Love” Nefesh Mountain, led by husband and wife duo Doni Zasloff and Eric Lindberg, had initially planned to release their cover of Tim O’Brien’s “More Love” in January. But as conditions deteriorated in the

Middle East in October, the band, who identify as Jewish American, decided that now—instead of later— was when the world needed the message of love ingrained in the song. More love may sound to some a bit idealistic, but the beauty of the music reminds us what the world always needs more of. – D.S.

FUTURE ISLANDS

“The Tower” Baltimore indie stalwarts Future Islands are back with a fresh batch of soulstirring anthems. Front man Samuel T. Herring is in peak form on the “The Tower,” the first single from the group’s upcoming album “People Who Aren’t There Anymore,” which will be released on January 26. The record’s initially revealed tune has a relaxed downtempo flow that builds with waves of emotion thanks to Herring’s hairraising vocal outbursts and the celestial synth touches that have long been the band’s calling card. – J.F.

BROKE MOUNTAIN BLUEGRASS BAND

“I See Through Your Smile” Broke Mountain Bluegrass Band’s first run only lasted two years, which included a win at the Rockygrass band competition in 2003 just

months after forming, but the band’s legacy is still felt two decades later. Former members went on to join bands that are household names in the jamgrass world, including the Infamous Stringdusters, Greensky Bluegrass, and Leftover Salmon, and longtime fans still clamor for their music. “I See Through Your Smile” is the first single from the band’s soon to be rereleased first record, “Cabin in the Hills,” and plans are in place for their first show east of Colorado in early 2024. – D.S.

THE BAND OF HEATHENS

“Heartless Year” Earlier this year, Texan indie rockers the Band of Heathens released the critically acclaimed “Simple Things.” This month, the band has revisited those songs, stripping them down to their acoustic bones on the appropriately titled “Simpler Things.” On “Heartless Year,” the vocal interplay between Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist shines as subdued mandolin, guitar, and droning fiddle guide the song along. All about outlasting the hard times, when you don’t really know what that light at the end of the tunnel really is, this song is for everyone out there doing their best to get by. – D.S.

To hear these songs and more, follow the Blue Ridge Outdoors’ Trail Mix playlist on Spotify.

We are the Mountain People Crafted by conditions, sharpened by every step. Our mountain gear gives you absolute protection, comfort and mobility, when you really need it.

W W W . RAB. EQUI PM EN T

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | BLUERIDGEOUTDOORS.COM

After a day exploring the great outdoors, discover your new favorite wine at one of the 40+ wineries located along the Monticello Wine Trail in Charlottesville & Albemarle County. Recently named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year, it’s the perfect place to cozy up by a crackling firepit and make memories to last a lifetime. 60

BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS

EXPLORE OUR WINERIES