Fun with Delorme Topo Maps 5.0

Slightly outdated, but I recently explored the use of this mapping program essential for outdoor enthusiasts. As a test run, I examined the Mahoosuc Notch/Arm area of the A.T.'s lower Maine. What stands out about this program's contents is the info about Mountain ascent/descent/prominence, etc.- also the many trails and trail names given. The East map set includes everything from Maine to Florida, as well as the Upper Midwest, meaning I should get as much use out of it while I am still East of the Mississippi.



The image displays the 3D window to the left, and the highlighted section of the A.T. that runs through the Mahoosuc Notch (hardest scramble/squeeze/crawl) of the trail, then heads up the Mahoosuc Arm. The profile is shown below, and although illegible in the image, trail accent/descent, milage, and grade is provided to the right. For more info: http://www.delorme.com/

12,500 miles in one year

Samuel Gardner is attempting this feat. Paraphrasing his "tweet"- "if only this blog app would work on my phone". Seems to care too much about who is watching him. I'm not sure of this guy yet, intentions or character, but I will be sure to follow his google lat/lon occasionally.

Channeling Ned Smith

Snow shoe'd my mountain (peter's) this afternoon. Probably the last day snow shoes will suffice until the next snow. Following some tracks I was able to make out a few squirrels, deer, cross-country skis, keens -womens size 8, and Asolos size 11. Watched a red-headed woodpecker much like the one above, although I didn't have the means to get a picture.

Deer Leap trail, VT

Took a long weekend to get into the woods and ski a bit. After snowboarding 2 days Big Bird and I needed a rest, so we hiked. From the intersection of Rt. 4 at the Inn at the Long Trail, take the blue blaze up towards the A.T. Deer Leap Trail is a side trail to a vista above the Inn (about 1.5 mi one way). Tested out my recent Craigslist snow shoe purchase.

In the picture, Rt.4 is below with Pico ski resort on the far side of the valley. A good day involves the trail across the street from the Inn. Hike in with your board up to meet a Pico slope for a free ride. One can also attempt it on Killington, though the hike is much farther.

trail mapping

ExplorePAtrails was launched by DCNR within the last year or so. When last checked, it contained 320 trail names and 7,205 miles of trails to be searched by location or name using the interactive Google maps platform. Recommendations and pictures can be sent to add to the growing list of trails-> descriptions and links are also provided. I find the site useful for learning new trail locations within a short driving distance. The more suggestions they receive, the better it will be...

recent Caving

As caving ethics go, I will not say where, but I explored a Central PA cave on my day off for veteran's day. Rob, Chitlin, and I followed directions given by a grotto member- who supplied the cave map as well.

Spent 3+ hours underground without seeing all the rooms on the map, which is for the best- so we can get some pictures to document the cave's splendor. Our bodies were covered in too much mud to properly wipe off our hands to use a camera. Documented some translucent insects, salamanders, and bats (free of white nose syndrome).

Up on the hill

Spent another night on the hill known as Peter's Mountain last week. A cold, windy November night, I set up my tent inside the shelter by the parking lot. That parking lot is always busy, no matter the time of year. Although, I believe the car that was idling in the parking lot was of the feds who were supposedly investigating the case of the infamous tire dumper. It was the clearest night on Peters Mountain I have seen-no need to rush into the morning, but daylight savings has ended.