Ways to Connect with Betty Mountain Girl

We recently completed a redesign of the blog to allow for easy of use, simpler navigation, and more fun! Drop on in sometime and check us out! While you are at it here are some more ways to connect (also in sidebar):

Or drop me a line: bettymountaingirl (at) gmail (dot) com. Hope to here from you soon!!

Hiking the Winter 4,000 Footers

Here's a sneak peek at our most recent hike. Number two on our Winter 48 list!! Cold and snowy-- more pics to come!

Survival Skill of the Week: Tarp Shelters

Source

One of Betty Mountain Girl's new weekly features is a section called Survival Skills. Look for this section to include tips, suggestions, and inspiration around the idea of survival. Think your basics- shelter, water, heat, and fire.

This graphic includes tons of variations on your tarp shelter. I'll admit that my current tarp shelter repertoire tends to be a basic A-Frame with an occasional modified Adirondack for coverage around the cook area. What about you? Any Hexagon Fly users out there? Love to see one that didn't billow and bend all over!

Cabin of the Week

Source

This little cabin of the week is from Northern California, a bit of a stretch for us here on the East Coast, but lovely nonetheless.

Many of my friends are heading north this weekend to enjoy some of the snow that yesterday's Noreaster dropped. Having your own little cabin in the woods would be an ideal place to retreat to after a long day cross country skiing or hiking in the mountains. Cozy up to a little wood burning stove (have I ever mentioned how crazy I think electric/gas fireplaces are? Crazy!) and sip some hot cocoa. I think I will be dreaming of this scene all day. Enjoy!

How to Wash and Care for Your Gear: Midlayers, Wool, Softshells, and Fleece

Caring for your midlayer technical jackets such as wool layers, merino wool layers, fleece, and softshells helps your gear last longer with improved function and appearance. I regularly monitor my equipment especially my pricey jackets and wool items so that I get the most from them. Here's some tips for washing and caring for your gear.

(NOTE-- Carefully read your clothing and gears labels and follow them carefully. If you have questions or are unsure of how to appropriately care for an item contact the manufacturer/retail store directly.)

For Midlayers (wool, merino wool, fleece, softshell)

Once again I regularly monitor my usage and wash when needed. How often should you wash your wool or softshell jackets? It's very dependent on how often you use the jacket or layer. We spend nearly every weekend hiking and tend to run or snowshoe several times a week. Due to this, we probably wash our gear more frequently than, say, someone who mainly uses their gear for walking the dog around town. So adjust to your needs and usage.

• Wash on gentle cycle (less agitation is very important for wool) or skip some of agitation on the regular cycle
• Wash with like colors and materials. Avoid washing midlayers with velcro or things with clips/snaps that could snag. Velcro and I have a love hate relationship. 
• I always wash with cold water.
• Use a mild detergent for things like wool or fleece-- I like ALL hypoallergenic (no perfume smell) or Seventh Generation (harder to find depending on where you live)
• Use a wash like Nikwax TechWash for softshells or items with waterproofing. TechWash removes dirt and helps revitalize waterproofing.
• I always hang dry these items. Read your labels. 
• Dry wool flat so you don't get weird shapes or stretched out arms.
• Have a weird stain on your wool clothing? Ibex has a great section for how to care for your wool here.
• Have a weird smell on your wool clothing? Ibex has a great section for how to get out the odor here. I've tried the baking soda method (not with borax though, just baking soda) and it works like a freakin charm. Once again check your labels and always check with the maker of the product if in doubt.

Also in this series:

How to Wash and Care for Your Gear: Base Layers
How to Wash and Care for Your Gear: Outer Layers

Disclaimer: Product Reviews and How to's are based on opinion only and are not intended to condone, encourage, or promote a product. Some products are sent to me by the manufacturer or affiliates and are mine to keep. I mention this specifically on products sent to me. Compensation and/or product and/or services never interfere with the review of the product. Otherwise, products and services are purchased by me for personal use. I have purchased way too many bottles of Techwash and TX.Direct Spray On than I care to recall. I was sent BaseFresh recently to try.

Hiking the Winter 4,000 Footers: Cannon Mountain 12.22.2012

Via Kinsman Ridge Trail from Ski Parking Lot
Number 1 on the list!

Read all about the winter list here and check on our list from this summer here.



In stark contrast to the crowded summer months, Cannon Mountain was a quiet cold peak on the day we officially started our winter list. We parked in a practically empty parking lot and were greeted by some fairly bare ski slopes. Just south of the notch there was no snow to speak of, but looking up towards the peak of this 4,000 footer we saw plenty of white.



The trail itself was covered in snow around 4-6 inches that was already packed down. The initial climb was slippery with ice over the snow and any bare rocks. Microspikes solved this problem easily and the trail became more and more snow covered as we went up in elevation.





Sticks and branches from recent windy weather covered the trail for the beginning of the hike and was quite bothersome. Fortunately, for anyone else planning to go- we ended up clearing the way for you!

I've been digging Marmot's Driclime Jacket for climbs

Cannon Mountain was one of our first hikes this summer as we began the list and we suffered through the steep climb. While I admit to some suffering on our winter attempt it was much less!



We had wet snow falling on us throughout the hike making for challenging conditions. The top was windy and cold but manageable  Clouds limited views somewhat. One thing I love about winter hiking is that going down is always much faster. We hightailed it back down in no time and only bumped into one other person walking their dog the entire hike. SO much different than the summer months. I love winter!

How to Wash and Care for Your Gear: Baselayers

I know what it is like to spend lots of money on outdoor gear and clothing and not have it hold up to the elements. One thing I've discovered through lots of trial and error is that it is really important how you care for your outdoor gear. While you may love your wicking baselayers, softshell jacket, and waterproof hardshell so much that it is hard to give them a wash--- it is one of the most important things you can do to protect your gear.

All the activity you do while wearing your gear clogs up membranes that are critical for waterproofing and breathability of the gear. By washing and caring for your gear appropriately you will get better performance. Here is some general tips and products that help me keep my gear in top shape:

(NOTE-- Carefully read your clothing and gears labels and follow them carefully. If you have questions or are unsure of how to appropriately care for an item contact the manufacturer/retail store directly.)

For Baselayers (wicking shirts, running tights, hiking pants and shorts--mainly synthetic material)

How often should you wash your baselayers and other technical gear? Depends on how often you use them. I like to wash my baselayers everytime or everyother time I use them. I find that regularly washing these items prevents stinky smells.

• I typically wash mine in cold water (check your clothing label and follow it exactly)
• Wash like items together
• Don't place your base layers in with items that contain velcro or clips. One of the most common ways my wicking shirts get ruined is from snags, many of which are from other pieces of gear.
• I was recently sent BaseFresh by Nikwax to try and find it to be a great addition to my cleaning gear. You know when you can't get that stink out of your favorite running shirt or wicking layer? This stuff's a charmer and seems to deodorize the stinkiest of gear. Recently after a drenching winter hike where we sweated through several layers of gear, froze it, and then resweated in it-- we tried this product. I'm please to say I can finally get the smell out of both my outdoor gear and my gym gear.
• I always hang dry all my synthetic items. If you read the label on your item it may say dry on low, but personally I find that my gear lasts longer and looks better if I hang dry items. I have a large rack to hang dry things or I hang things over chairs and available items.

Check back for upcoming features:

How to Wash and Care for Your Gear: Midlayers
How to Wash and Care for Your Gear: Outerlayers

Disclaimer: Product Reviews and How to's are based on opinion only and are not intended to condone, encourage, or promote a product. Some products are sent to me by the manufacturer or affiliates and are mine to keep. I mention this specifically on products sent to me. Compensation and/or product and/or services never interfere with the review of the product. Otherwise, products and services are purchased by me for personal use. I have purchased way too many bottles of Techwash and TX.Direct Spray On than I care to recall. I was sent BaseFresh recently to try.

Made in Iceland

MADE IN ICELAND from Klara Harden on Vimeo.

Made in Iceland By Klara Harden

In case you needed some fuel to start your fire for the new year. Here is some amazing footage of an amazing area by an amazing young lady.

Marmot Women's Zion Jacket Product Review: Initial Thoughts

I purchased the Marmot Women's Zion Jacket because I am a softshell loving freak. I love softshells and wear them constantly adventuring and going out and about town. When I first spotted the Zion jacket online I wanted it red but eventually settled with the black color because of the contrast zips and stitching. It's a lot more subtle and easy to sport everyday.

I've worn the Marmot Women's Zion jacket a handful of times on different types of outdoor adventures- from apple picking, dog walking, wind blown mountains in the Presidential Range of New Hampshire, and in windy, snow blowing cold in the White Mountains. Here's how the Zion holds up....

Marmot Women's Zion Jacket: Fit

I've long been a huge fan of Marmot (maybe the biggest), particularly their softshells. I literally have softshells from Marmot that I have worn daily, for years, that look brand new. They're incredibly durable and well worth the money. I caution you to really pick something that suits you though- and isn't just a trend or the latest color. Marmot's stuff isn't cheap and it lasts for years so you may as well get something you are crazy about- and will be just as crazy about in five years.

Lately, I've notice that Marmot's cuts have been getting slimmer and more athletic- not a lot of room for layers in some of their pieces. I was nervous about the Zion jacket since I ordered it online and couldn't try it on ahead of time. Fortunately it fits me well and I tend to be a solid medium in everything by every company. The fits is just slightly athletic in the waist, but allows room for some well thought out layers. The arms are nice and long and stay put while you wiggle and fuss with gear, gadgets, and climbing up stuff. I really love how the zippers are placed slightly higher than your usual pocket. Overall, good clean fit.

Marmot Women's Zion Jacket: The Elements

I started bringing my Zion jacket along this fall as we tackled all the Presidential's in New Hampshire. These mountains are home to Mount Washington, where some of the worst weather in the world including fastest wind speeds ever recorded can be found. We hit some big winds on these hikes including sustained speeds of 45-55 mph and gusts of 75 mph (these knock you right over). 

The Zion was crazy bomb proof on these hikes. The hood is perfect in so many ways- it comes right up around your face with tons of ways to fasten it down tighter. The material itself felt amazing against these winds. The winds blew-- I even fell down a few times from it-- but the jacket completely blocked the elements for me. I tend to layer very carefully- so I am sure this had some part in it too.

Marmot Women's Zion Jacket: Final Thoughts

We just started our winter hiking list a few days ago. Our first hike of the season was cold and snowing and the jacket held up nicely for me. As I brave some new elements I'll let you know my final thoughts on the jacket- particularly the waterproofing.

Disclaimer: Product Reviews are based on opinion only and are not intended to condone, encourage, or promote a product. Some products are sent to me by the manufacturer or affiliates and are mine to keep. I mention this specifically on products sent to me. Compensation and/or product and/or services never interfere with the review of the product. Otherwise, products and services are purchased by me for personal use. The jacket was purchased by me.

Kahtoola Microspikes Product Review: Initial Thoughts

Yesterday we spent the day hiking in our newly purchased Kahtoola Microspikes. We've used Stabiliciers for years and I have to admit are now decidedly fans of the Microspikes. My initial thoughts on how the Microspikes hold up under fairly extreme snow and ice conditions are below.

Microspikes: Fit and Function

We've used the Stabilicers for years on winter hikes and been sorely unsatisfied. Those sneaky little things used to slip off our feet constantly. After trying the Microspikes for only one hike I can already tell a HUGE difference in fit. The Microspikes actually stay on my feet with no adjusting. This is a great thing because when you are above treeline and the elements are pounding you- you really don't want to take your gloves off and fiddle with your footwear.

The packaging for the Microspikes includes detailed sizing info and we followed it to the letter. Since we mainly use foot traction with our bigger winter pack boots we carefully choose the correct sized based on the package and while it seemed a bit big at first- they fit perfectly on our big winter boots. Definitely take into consideration what you plan to use for footwear when buying and sizing these.



Microspikes: Traction on Icy Conditions

First and foremost, let me explain that I don't think Microspikes are the kind of traction you need while walking your dog around town. Microspikes actually need ice and snow to work or else you're clunking around in something unnecessary  For the type of activities we engage in- the Microspikes really held up. They were excellent on a mix of plain ice, snow on top of ice, icy snow, and compact snow.

Microspikes: Final Thoughts

My impression so far is that the Microspikes foot the bill for the type of equipment I need while hiking. I love that they stay on and don't need to be constantly adjusted. I found the sizing to be accurate, but careful consideration and reading of the packaging is needed. I'll post my final thoughts on the Microspikes in the coming weeks and include durability, portability, and more on conditions and fit. Stay tuned!

Disclaimer: Product Reviews are based on opinion only and are not intended to condone, encourage, or promote a product. Some products are sent to me by the manufacturer or affiliates and are mine to keep. I mention this specifically on products sent to me. Compensation and/or product and/or services never interfere with the review of the product. Otherwise, products and services are purchased by me for personal use. The Microspikes were purchased by me.

Hiking the 4,000 Footers: Mount Waumbek 11.16.2012

Via Starr King Trail
7.2 miles round trip

Number 37 on the List!

Our hike up Mount Waumbek marked the transition between two season- fall and winter. Up until this hike tackling the 4,000 footer list was mainly a summer and fall event for us and while we have plenty of experience winter hiking, the transition between the two seasons is never and easy one.

We loved spending the summer hiking with our lightweight packs and camelbaks, but on Waumbek we mistakenly brought the camelbaks only to have them freeze on us. We forgot our pants which I recount in this post and, oh yeah, we forgot our camera - a-freakin-gain. So no pictures of this gorgeous mountain.

We had some difficulty finding the trailhead for the Starr King Trail because our guidebook is so dated. After driving down what amounted to a dirt trail (thank goodness for four wheel drive and plenty of clearance!) we found the trailhead. The week before we had attempted this hike after a couple of inches of snowfall only to discover the road hadn't been plowed.

Waumbek is waaaay far up in Northern New Hampshire located in the Pliny Range (bordering the Pilot Range). Even though it was essentially the "off season" for hiking in this area we ended up having several hiking buddies (the kind where you leave the parking lot at the same time and you just can't shake them).

For a stretch we managed to have the trail to ourselves. This area is amazing and isolated. You feel like there isn't a soul for miles and your only neighbors are the moose and coyotes, who have left tracks crisscrossing the trail. The trees are a different sort this far north- far more stunted and scrubbish. We had several inches of snow to contend with- but not really enough for snowshoes or any sort of traction.

The summit for Waumbek is a pile of rocks with no view, but the isolation, quiet, and peeks of views the whole through make it completely worth the adventure or in our case- misadventure.

Hiking the 4,000 Footers: Mount Hale 10.27.2012

Via Hale Brook Trail

Number 36 on the list!

(picture is on Jefferson not Hale; read below to find out why)

Hale is a mountain that shouldn't be hiked all by itself. It's really part of a large family of mountains that should be hiked all together in one big swoop. Separating it and hiking it out and back in one day like we did is like divorcing Hale from its family (think backpacking--- Hale, Bonds, Zeacliff).

A 4.4 mile round trip Hale is extremely short for all the driving it requires. I think we drove two hours for this two hour little hike. The trail was crowded with families day tripping and leaf peeping. We forgot our camera- which was very devastating at the time. So I have zero pictures of Hale right now (thus the random picture hiking up Jefferson above- but really who doesn't like looking at THAT view). Turns out we weren't missing much for pictures because there is really no view at the top of the peak.

Hale was a mountain we decided to climb after several false starts and failures which I wrote about in this post.

Hiking the Winter 4,000 Footers

We started our newest adventure! Today we hiked Cannon Mountain a fairly steep but short hike. The mountain is a well known ski area as well. It was freezing cold and snowy the entire hike. Outside of Franconia Notch (the Notch for short) it barely snowed! More to come about this hike and the Winter List soon!

The Winter Solstice List

We've been pumped for winter since it means the start of a new list. While we still have 11 more peaks for our 4,000 footers list, we're starting the Winter 48. Essentially we'll be completing all the White Mountains 4,000 Footers during winter.

Winter really changes everything for hiking the 4,000 footers. Streams and rivers that are typically crossed with shoes off and pants rolled up become a major make or break moment. The worst weather in the world brings it in the winter. The winds are regularly strong and now become a windchill factor. Roads are closed for the winter sometimes adding five to six extra miles to an already long hike.

So tonight we celebrate with whiskey and jalepeno poppers as we tackle a new challenge. Here's a list of other smart winter adventures that may peek your fancy...

• Build an igloo
• Dig a snowcave
• Ice skate on a lake
• Climb up a mountain just to sled down it
• Throw snowballs for your dog
• Scoop up your own all natural snow cone (food coloring too!)
• Winter Camping
• Winter Peakbagging
• Breaking the trail with your snowshoes
• Make your own snowflakes (below)
• Night Hiking

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Cabin of the Week

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As my faithful readers well know-- I am a cabin, tiny house, and vintage camper addict. My pinterest boards are loaded with these types of pins. This little rustic cabin looks like a perfect mountain getaway.

Feeling the cabin/tiny house love? Check out these links for worthwhile blogs and sites.

• Tumbleweed Houses
• Tiny House Blog
• Free Cabin Porn

Hiking the 4,000 Footers: Mount Jefferson 10.20.2012

Via Caps Ridge Trail 
Elevation: 5716 feet
Presidential Range

Number 35 on the List

Getting to Caps Ridge Trail head is an adventure in itself. Closed in the winter the trailhead parking lot is so high in elevation gain that you only have to hike 2700 feet of Jefferson's 5716.

A narrow dirt road with lots of curves and tight turns-- and cell phone reception? Nill. It's spectacular.

Caps Ridge Trail is a sweet and easy (relatively) way to claim one of the mighty Presidentials (or Presis for short in NH). Loads of good views line the way up and down the trail. Don't forget full gear even in the summer. The Presidential Range is notorious for some of the worst weather in the world with some of the highest wind speeds ever recorded. It has snowed every month of the year in this area and average wind speeds are regularly 35-45 mph.

Overall the trail is easy to follow, not very crowded depending on the time of year, and relatively easy compared to Jefferson's neighbors such as Adams and Washington.

Vintage Camper of the Week

source | photographer

This entire set-up is just perfect. It may not be vintage, but it's certainly calling out for a little get-away...

On Dealing with Failure

We've spent the summer attacking the list of White Mountain's 4,000 footers- 48 in total to be exact. It started out slowly and without a specific goal, sort of like- "let's see if we can hike again next weekend" type of thing. Then suddenly we were addicted to these hikes. My work weeks suddenly seemed shorter and more bearable with plans for adventure each weekend.

Over the summer weeks and weeks of successful hikes went by. We got up earlier to avoid massive thunderstorms. We pushed through on Owl's Head despite colossal downpours all day. Somehow we got our groove on and the hiking gods were with us.

But towards the end of the summer we started to hit road blocks. It started on Whiteface and Passaconaway. We had attempted these mountains at least twice before in previous years, but always had to turn back. On our chosen day this past summer we arrived sans lunch and sans band-aids/blister supplies.

My summer has been an amazing whirlwind of hiking and adventure that also included incredible blisters. Blisters that were really covered with more blisters and then covered with blood blisters. Really so many blisters that I couldn't possibly hike with out first aid supplies. And no lunch? The hike was doomed. We made it a few miles in because we wanted to stretch our legs. We hiked back to the car defeated again.

In September and October we ran into new dilemmas  The hikes we saved for last were further away and required close to three hours of driving just to reach the trail head. Timing was critical on these hikes because the days were shorter as dark crept in earlier. With six hours of driving and six hours of hiking we needed to make plans for someone to take out our dog. It literally required an army of pre-planning and calling in favors to complete these hikes.

We arrived at Mount Moriah at 8:30 am (that means we were up and at em' at 4:00 a.m. who-hoo) to find not a single parking spot at the trailhead and spray painted signs saying "don't even think about parking here."  

The next trailhead for Moriah was 30 minutes away, but we gave it a shot. A mile or so in a river crossing that hasn't quite frozen over yet but was covered in ice and slippery snow prevented us from claiming Moriah that day.

On Mount Waumbek we couldn't find the trail head once.

Another week we came back to discover that Adam forgot his pants- yes- forgot his pants!! No, he didn't drive up pantsless- but he wore a pair of jeans. Waumbek in November is covered in snow and Adam had no waterproof pants or long johns. At that point we had made so many trips up to these mountains to fail that we just freakin' went for it. We monitored the weather and Adam's comfort the whole time and ended up hiking Waumbek in jeans!

All those days of missteps and failure were crushing at the time. It's hard to look forward to something all week and then suddenly realize you forgot your pants (wink, wink). Even harder was the realization that our hope of completing the list before winter was slowly fading.

What I discovered about dealing with failure is this-- Sometimes you have to get up at 4:00 in the morning and drive three hours only to realize you forgot something. Places are hard to find. Stars don't quite line up perfectly all the time. But you know what? Eventually we climbed Mount Whiteface and Passaconaway. We eventually climbed Waumbek. And well Moriah...eventually we'll climb her too.

The point is- being in the outdoors, having outdoor goals, and taking up outdoor sports will have moments of failure. But everyday you get up you have a chance to try again. Everyday you wake up and are blessed with ability to put one foot in front of the other you get another shot-- that is unless you forget your pants.

The Best Adventure and Outdoor Blogs for Women

After so much great feedback we've expanded the original list of best adventure and outdoor blogs for women. My new list includes blogs, websites, and companies that tailor, feature or inspire outdoor women athletes. Enjoy!

Tales of a Mountain Mama

An amazing mountain family that is really living the dream for so many- living it up with their little ones in tow!

Just a Colorado Girl

Just a Colorado Girl is a great blog that features long distance cyclying, endurance sports events, running, skiing and adventuring. Fun and inspiring!

Gear Gals

Gear Gals is a blog dedicated to reviewing and featuring outdoor gear reviews for women. Not only are their reviews helpful and insightful- but they also have a pretty spiffy dress up section too.

Crag Mama

A rock climbing enthusiast sharing her love for nature, climbing, the outdoors, and family.

Outdoor Industry Women's Coalition (OIWC)

The Outdoor Industry Women's Coalition is a group that brings outdoor industry women together through online networking, networking events, and kick ass professional development. Really a must join group for any female currently working in or interested in the outdoor industry.

Monica Prelle 

I love Monica’s blog because it is all about fun, outdoor sports, and outdoor lovin’ lifestyle. She’s not constantly pitching you products- she’s much more into posting amazing photographs, writing sharp little features, and inspiring you to shut off and get outside. Great blog!

Women's Adventure Magazine

Seriously one of my favorite sites to stop by. They have killer reader adventures posted on their blog, you can read past issue or current issues ONLINE. For reels. Amazing photograpy, writing, and inspiration for women adventurers.

Outdoor Women’s Alliance 

A great organization that is all about inspiring women to get outdoors in any non-motorized way whether it is skiing, biking, or climbing…. Their twitter feed regularly features 

Jill Outside

The amazing female adventurer Jill. Words can't describe..

Rock Climber Girl

Rock Climber Girl is a truly inspiring blog. She details her climbing adventures, provides tips and tricks on gear and climbing.

Specialized Bikes- Women

Specialized Bikes has truly expanded their women's bike selection. They're one of the few companies that really analyzes women's geometry and builds better bikes for female riders. More than that- they've got an inspiring website and have really spread out across multiple social media. Check them out on twitter or facebook. Specialized has been kicking butt in the women's specific arena- but here is my challenge for them. Remember the Specialized Trail Crew from last year? Well I think we really think we need to see a Women's Bike Crew...What do you say Specialized?

Girl Bike Love 

A passionate group of cyclists inspiring women to be involved in racing, commuting, and riding bikes. Great bike blog that I definitely recommend

Mudd Bunnies

A women's biking club out of Vancouver, BC featuring forums, tips, and teams for downhill, freeride, or cross country mountain bikers. Oh, I so wish I lived nearby!

Outdoor Divas

Outdoor Divas are based out of Colorado and feature clothing, gear, killer events and classes for multiple sports.

Velo Mom

Connecting women, bikes, and their children. Truly informative posts on biking, pregnancy and biking, and kids.

Expand Outdoors

Totally original and authentic- a life coach with a specialty in the outdoors.

Adventure Inspired

Philly based outdoor blogger Katie Levvy regularly features an array of sports, events, and reviews on her blog.

Chicks with Picks

Chicks with Picks is a site for women rock climbers and ice climbers. Their site features a blog, newsletters, and merchandise for female climbers. They also have amazing clinics all around the country for women climbers.

Hiking Lady

The Hiking Lady blog mainly features reviews and tips for women who hike or backpack. Honestly- she has some great tips on lacing your boots to prevent blisters as well as video features. A must check out blog!

Girl Mtn Biker

Girl Mtn Biker is a brand new site for women mountain bikers. Currently they feature a blog, reviews for women, and a great event section. I expect that we will be seeing more and more as this site begins to unfurl.

Terry

Terry has been making bikes and cycling gear for women before it was cool. Now they're still kicking butt and taking names in all things female and bike related.

Girls Outdoors

Girls Outdoors is a great forum for women outdoor athletes. Whether you bike, paddle, ski, or run- Girls Outdoors has tips, reviews, events, and inspiration for everyone.

Bike Shop Girl

A site dedicated to helping women handle more of the mechanics in biking, reviews on gear, and bike industry info.

Title Nine

Title Nine sells all my favorite brands and puts together an absolutely amazing catalog that is always inspiring me to get out more! I love their gear, their amazing positive can-do models, and amazing photography. First rate outdoor women’s company for sure.

Women's Wilderness Institute

Courses, news, tips, and inspiration for both the seasoned outdoors women to young girls.

See any great sites or blogs that I missed? Please comment below and we may include them in future posts!

Hiking the 4,000 Footers: Eisenhower and Pierce 10.5.2012

Via Crawford Path

Numbers 33 and 34 on the List!

Autumn is truly one of the best times of year to hike the Presidential Range in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The crowds of tourists and dayhikers has died back, the bugs are finally gone, and temperatures are comfortable- no perfect- for hiking.

The trail up Eisenhower is relatively easy compared to many of our previous hikes. A large portion of the trail is exposed and above treeline- so caution is needed in bad weather.

Eisenhower's summit is raw, large, and exposed with excellent views. Pierce is easy to miss as we just climbed right over it without even noticing until later that a small cairn had marked the top.

Eisenhower to the far left



Crawford Path



Mount Pierce



Foliage Presidential Range









Trail up Eisenhower- steady steep grade, but easy footing



On top of Eisenhower- low view due to cloud cover