Winter 2012-13 Women's Adventure Magazine

How Your Boots and Bindings WorkBuild a Snow Cave

Life UnleashedIs Nomadic Life For You?

Mothering NatureWomen Fighting For Our Planet

G E A R E S S E N T I A L S

Backcountry SkiStay Cozy and DryCarve Big Lines

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Snowshoe RacingBackcountry Touring

Keeping Active in Winter

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Contributing Writers

Editorial Interns

Contributing Photographers

SUE SHEERINJENNIFER C. OLSOND. Kari Luraas, Sarah Chesnutt

Susan Hayse

Gigi Ragland

Mira Perrizo

Chris Kassar, Casey Flynn, MacKenzie Ryan, Stephanie Nitsch, Meghan Hicks, Alia Khan, Alison Turner, Courtney Johnson

Katherine Maguid

Noah Clayton (cover), Camrin Dengel, Lee Hughes, Principle Pictures, Abran Moore, Mark Rostan, Carnaval de Québec, Ellefson, Gigi Ragland, Luc Rousseau, Jean Sylvain, Fairmont le Château Frontenac, Auberge Saint-Antoine, Connor Walberg, Simon Beck, Rebekah Stevens, Robert Schwarz, Robin Silver, Brendan Cummings, Bob Siegel, Colleen Unroe, Alison Turner, Casey Flynn, Jilli Bethany, Hallie Bevan, Pat Branch

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Katherine MaguidA recent arrival to Boulder, CO, Katherine takes every opportunity to enjoy the amazing outdoors adventures that surround her. An avid traveler, she has journeyed across continents to pursue compelling stories and meet incredible people who persevere and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and challenges in their lives. Her work has appeared in Marathon and Beyond, StepMom Magazine, and Writing on the Edge, among others. Her piece, “After the Elephant Screamed,” was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2006.

Casey FlynnAfter transplanting to Colorado from New York ten years ago, Casey embraced the outdoor life and the adventure that comes with it. Snowboarding and ski-bumming in Vail ignited a deep love for the high country that led to studies in geography and a research position in the mountains west of Boulder. Casey’s adventures have taken him sea kayaking in Alaska with his mom, rock climbing in Thailand, and to a pilgrimage around a holy mountain in Tibet. After recently return-ing from a year teaching English in China, he is happy to be settling with his fi ancé and two kittens, climbing, hiking and skiing in his home of Colorado. Casey has written for Skiing, Mountain, ESPN.com and blogs for Elevation Outdoors.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 2 / 1 3

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T O O L B O X E S Packed with how-to tips, fun videos, and inspiring stories, our better-than-ever Tool-boxes will equip you for every pursuit from running, cycling, and hiking to snow and water sports.

B L O G S Glean tips from the Adventure Moms, be entertained by the newbie blogs, and even submit your own stories.

G E A R At Women’s Adventure, we practice what we preach and really geek out about gear. Check out reviews of our favorite gear online every Tuesday.

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s!It fi ts in your pack and requires no batteries! Subscribe to get Women’s Adventure hot off the presses four times a year and enjoy our seasonal issues packed with outdoor adventure, tips, gear reviews, and feature articles.

Subscribe to our print magazine for $18/year. B O O K C L U B

We have a fabulous book club over on Face-book and you are welcome to join! Most of our reads are written by outdoor women adventurers and we vote as a group on what our next book will be. facebook.com/groups/womenadventurers

If you don’t want Facebook in your life, we respect that. Visit the Book Club page on our site, where we replicate some of the posts from the Facebook group, to comment and discuss books with the same community of outdoor-fanatics and avid readers. womensadventuremagazine.com/book-club

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46 Dream Job Joselyn Fenstermacher

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Big mountain boards and skis, winter apparel, backcountry gear, hut trip essentials and around-town fashion must-haves.

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Iwas gearing up for a mountain bike ride in Fruita, Colorado, since it was already snowing in the mountains and my skis

had yet to be tuned. Leaning against the car for balance, dirty-ing up my soft, white mountain biking shirt (who makes those in white?) and light blue baggies, I pulled the Velcro over the tucked-in laces on my mountain bike shoes. They are black but so dusty that they looked gray against my new black cycling socks, which I was admiring when Mike pulled up.

Mike works for the BLM and had what he called “some real edu-cation opportunities” that day, because the desert got rain. People who ride in the desert need to know how to ride and protect a trail that’s a little muddy, so Mike would spin out to a puddle somewhere on the trail and station himself there, asking folks as they came by what they thought they should do when they came to a puddle on the trail. “I get to tell them to just charge through it!” he said, understandably elated that his job requires him to mountain bike and talk to others who ride.

To be one hundred percent honest, before chatting with Mike that day, I hadn’t thought too much about whether I should ride through or around a puddle. First instinct according to my über-feminine ways is to go around it. But splashing through it provides a thrill. So, hopefully this won’t put jolly ol’ Mike out of a job, but here are five lessons in puddle riding. Try it—for the trails’ sake and for something new and fun.

Lesson 1: The Need for SpeedFirst thing, we dropped down a steep hill, where a couple of giant puddles waited at the bottom. My boyfriend sped so far ahead of me that I didn’t even note whether he rode through them. But, when the time came for me, I steered into one—straight on. My front tire slid out, and I zigzagged all the way through that first puddle. Then through the next one, too. On the other side, my tires found traction, and I laughed as I steered around a curve in the trail. Next time, I noted, head into a puddle with momentum. Speed equals control when you’re rid-ing through slimy puddles.

Lesson 2: Laundry ListAfter rounding that first dry corner, I appraised the state of my bike, shoes, and clothes. Nothing was unscathed. Mud had been flung from my chin to my calves, and my white shirt is now per-manently the color of the desert. I was both proud of my dirty state and embarrassed; no one else on-trail appeared that muddy! Now, I keep a heavy duty laundry stain remover handy at home.

Lesson 3: Watch Your MouthAs I continued riding, I passed a group or two, let another group pass me, and pedaled on, looking for more muck in which to

practice my puddle-pedaling skills. I slowed down for a minute to take a drink of water and got a gritty mouthful of mud. A wipe of the hydration hose later, I swished, spit, and took an-other drink. I still haven’t discovered the best way to prevent get-ting the hose dirty, but one solution is to hold it in your mouth as you ride through the puddle. If prevention isn’t possible, just remember to clean the mouthpiece before you sip from it.

Lesson 4: Stop and Smell the RosesMake your time outside worth it by taking in the views and appreciating the day. I climbed along the front side of the taller mountains before walking my bike along a pebbly ridge and, after more climbing, eventually landed at the top of my ride that day. There, I stopped to break and enjoy the two-toned scene—blue sky and brown dirt on the clear, post-storm morning.

Lesson 5: Give ’Em HellIf other riders on the trail aren’t puddle-splattered, tease them some. While I was committing that view to memory, my boyfriend rode up the trail—after having done two loops in the amount of time I completed half of my one loop. His white and red kit was completely mud-free, but he didn’t mind when I snuggled my muddy clothes against his stainless ones. I chal-lenged him to ride through a puddle on the cruise back down to the trailhead and tarnish that shiny white Lycra a little.

From the Editor

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 9





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Kelly Walker and Maggie Embick brave the chills of January in Valdez, Alaska, to explore the waters of Prince William Sound.

womensadventuremagazine.com12 WAM • WINTER | 2012/13

w DiscussLEE H

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When Chris Baker founded OneSeed, his mission was

simple: Create a unique solution to combat poverty through the power of tourism. The OneSeed Fund invests 10 cents of every dollar into microfinance initiatives that provide start-up capital to women entrepreneurs.

Alanna Mednick, a kindergarten teacher who traveled to Nepal with OneSeed Expeditions in July 2012, learned first-hand about the rewards of this matchless form of voluntourism. After buying her plane ticket to Kathmandu, Nepal, along with her travel package from OneSeed, there was nothing else for her to do except enjoy the adventure. Because Mednick chose to travel to Nepal during monsoon season and was the only participant on her trek, she developed a close rapport with her guides, Bishnu and Goma, who are also women. From the moment she stepped off the plane at the airport, throughout her three-week trek exploring and making the ascent into Annapurna basecamp, and until they dropped her off at the airport for her depar-ture, OneSeed made Mednick feel like a V.I.P.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through TourismBy Katherine Maguid

During her journey, Mednick ex-plored Nepali culture, ate regional cuisine, visited small villages only accessible by a four or five day trek, and saw Annapurna’s base-camp illuminated by stars and moonlight while surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas.

OneSeed prides itself on adapt-ing itself to the needs and wishes of the participants so, when Mednick asked to meet someone who had been helped from her individual microfinance contribu-tion, OneSeed accommodated that request. In Mednick’s case, her money had helped to finance a female tailor who told Mednick that, because of her financial assistance, she was now able to send her children to school and continue operating her business.

Mednick enjoyed her OneSeed expedition so much, that’s she’s already planning her second trip: This time she’s going trekking in Chile over spring break.

Scratch your travel itch! Sign up for your own OneSeed Expeditions experience to empower women entrepreneurs. oneseedexpeditions.com

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 13

wDiscuss

J illy Sherlock never planned to cycle across an entire continent, but after losing her job and

struggling to find a new one, she made a spur-of-the-moment decision and decided to cycle from the United Kingdom to China. While planning her trip, Jilly assembled everything she thought she would need: a bicycle, panniers, camping gear, bicycle spares, a compass, and some maps. But something was missing: She wanted a tracking device that would provide her with GPS technol-ogy, the functionality to send check-in messages, and SOS capabilities. That’s when she discovered the SPOT Tracker.

In addition to GPS capabilities, the SPOT Tracker’s check-in message allows the user to press a button each night that will send an e-mail or text telling the recipient the user’s exact loca-tion, along with a reassuring message that “all is well.” The SOS function—the greatest selling point for Jilly—provides assistance in the case of a life-threatening emergency. Once the SOS button is depressed, a notification including the user’s GPS-informed location is sent immedi-ately to SPOT headquarters so that the closest emergency services in any country whatsoever will be notified.

Jilly’s SPOT Tracker accompanied her throughout all of her travels, always faithfully recording her location, and never failing her, even as she rode through blizzards, sandstorms, and monsoons in temperatures between -30° C to 45° C.

Over the course of 16 months, traveling through 27 countries, and while trekking about 20,000 kilometers, Jilly sent her nightly messages to her family who could rest easily knowing she was safe. Her journey took her across Europe by way of the winding River Danube, along the jagged coastline of the Black Sea in Turkey, through rural Georgia, and over five mountain passes in Armenia. From there, Jilly rode through Central Asia: Turkmeni-stan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and then into China. She battled the extreme cold and harsh conditions across the Taklamakan desert in the winter, and then headed south to Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, and finally ran out of land when she hit Singapore.

Jilly parlayed her love of cycling and navi-gating into continuing on with her cycling

journey—permanently. “Wherever I lay my mat,” she says, “that’s my home.” And, at least for now, she can be found in her tent in New Zealand. Share in her adventures, by following her online at sherlocktales.blogspot.com, where she blogs and posts photos.

Safety for the Intrepid Traveler Why One Woman Carries a SPOT Tracker on All Her Adventures

By Katherine Maguid


w Discuss

During the winter months, our skincare routines change due to the cold and dry

conditions. But if there’s one thing to never skip, it’s your sunscreen. Even on cloudy days, ultravio-let rays penetrate through clouds and reach our skin. And, if the sun is out and you’re out in the snow, you can get upwards of 80% of additional ultraviolet light exposure. According to Dr. Lisa Scatena of Rocky Mountain Dermatology in Boulder, CO, it’s not uncommon to find skin can-cer around a person’s nares (the external opening to the nose) as well as the lips, directly because of the reflection of the ultraviolet rays from the snow up onto your face.

So, it’s your sunscreen that you need to be most vigilant about: Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen—one that blocks both the ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays. As Dr. Scatena explains, “ultraviolet A is about 95% of the ultraviolet light that reaches the surface of the earth, and it doesn’t change based on the season or time of day. It’s always 95%. Ultraviolet B is more variable. It can depend on the time of day and tends to be less intense during the winter. But both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B can cause skin cancer.”

The effects of ultraviolet light on skin differ based on the type of rays: “ultraviolet A is for aging—

Elemental Herbs All Good Lips Tinted Lip Balm. Mineral-tinted lip balm with SPF 18 zinc oxide coverage? Yes, please! $4.99; elementalherbs.com

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that’s what causes brown spots and wrinkles. Ultraviolet B causes burns,” says Dr. Scatena.

You need to actively seek out the sunscreens that specifically block ultraviolet A and B, which are labeled broad spectrum. To date, there are only a few blockers on the market that actually block ultraviolet A. To make things even more complicated, SPF refers only to the blockage of ultraviolet B rays and has nothing at all to do with the blockage of ultraviolet A rays.

Sun concerns aside, the wind, cold, and forced air inside buildings also contribute to new needs for your skin. Michele Carter, founder of Adventur-ess Skin Care, suggests switching to cream-based cleansers during the winter months, “because they help to protect skin and retain moisture. It’s the cleansers that contain sodium laurel sulfate—the cleaners that become frothy when you use them—that can make your skin more susceptible to drying and cracking.”

Also consider cutting back on hot and lengthy showers or baths during winter. While the water may feel soothing, in the end, you’re doing more harm to your skin. Dr. Scatena uses the analogy of water in a riverbed: “As the water recedes from the river, the sides of the riverbed crack,” and the

same applies to our skin. “Usually, we tell people to bathe no more than a couple of times a week during the winter,” Scatena says. “And even then, only use soap to a limited area of your body: your armpits, your groin, and our feet.” Finally, be sure to use a moisturizer within three to four minutes after finishing your bath or shower.

Bring On the Snow—and the Sunscreen!How to Protect Your Skin and Still Enjoy the Cold Outdoors

By Katherine Maguid

Don’t get Beth Murphy curious. As soon as that happens, profound

stories have a way of coming to light. Beth was drawn to documentary filmmaking because she wanted to devote her time to “telling the stories I want to tell in the way I want to tell them, and tell them in a way that would encourage American audi-ences to meaningfully connect with my international film subjects.” She founded Principle Pictures in 1999 and has written, directed, and pro-duced nearly twenty documentaries since then. But the most challenging project she has tackled yet was her latest film, The List.

Documentary Maker Reveals TruthBeth Murphy depicts courage and compassion in her new film, The List

By Katherine Maguid

Compelled by what she describes as “the darkness and light in the hu-man spirit,” Beth’s films depict the atrocities that occur in high-conflict areas, juxtaposed with the incredible courage and compassion that she finds in ordinary people. It’s this powerful combination that sets her films apart from other documenta-ries, particularly in The List—a film The Huffington Post hails as “incred-ibly important.”

The List details the struggle of Kirk Johnson, an American described as a modern-day Oskar Schindler, to locate and resettle nearly 3,000 Iraqis who worked for the U.S.

government and military to help rebuild Iraq after the American-led invasion. The name underscores the list of the tens of thousands of Iraqi men and women who worked as translators and advisors during the war in Iraq. These Iraqis, along with their families, are in danger of kidnap or murder and many live on the run, because they are labeled as “collaborators with the enemy.” Kirk Johnson, along with a team of lawyers, took it upon himself to relocate these individuals out of larger sense of duty to honor the failed promises despite the stagnat-ing government bureaucracy in the

States. Filmed in Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and the United States, Beth’s The List follows Johnson on his quest to find and relocate Iraqis.

To date, The List, which will debut on PBS this spring, has opened to highly favorable reviews at the Tribeca Film Festival. For now, you can view the trailer on Vimeo. PRIN

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ISIS Lindsay Skirt ($99) and Lindsay Jacket ($179). This soft shell skirt and jacket ensemble combines New York City-style with mountain-worthy insulating powers. Hit the cross country ski trails or get in a couple turns before work, then slip this outfi t over your baselayers and head to the offi ce. isisforwomen.com

Sierra Designs Cascade Skirt. A puffy jacket for your thighs! This skirt’s classically quilted pouches of synthetic insulation will loft to keep you toasty even if damp. $99; sierradesigns.com

Horny Toad Cloudcover Skirt.

This is like your favorite hut trip blankie but in wrap-form with snap closures at

the waist. It’s appropriate for classy winter vacations and snowy evening walks around the neighborhood alike. Bonus features: a hidden stash pocket, vented front panels, and a recycled poly shell. $118; hornytoad.com

The North Face Women’s Runaway Insulated Skirt. Designed to be your new best ice climbing or mountaineering companion, the Runaway offers lightweight quilted insulation plus a DWR fi nish that translates to water-repellant warmth. An internal drawcord and two hand pockets keep you warm, while a zippered back pocket keeps your valuables safe. $75; thenorthface.com

Mountain Hardwear Trekkin Insulated Skirt. Lightweight, water-repellent, 60 grams of insulation, blah blah blah. The point is: You can scoot about town without getting wet or cold in this little skirt, which we think is pretty darn cool—ahem, warm. $100; mountainhardwear.com

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Insulated SkirtsKeep your buns warm during your aprés adventures.

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WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 17

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w Tech Talk

Having your dream snowboard or pair of skis only goes so far. Boots and bindings interpret

the force from your body and tell your skis what to do. Plus—depending on how comfortable your boots feel and whether your bindings are finely tuned to your body and riding style—your boot and binding combo can make or break your experience. We debunk how the boots and bind-ings work together so you can choose ones that will ensure comfort and ultimate control—no matter your skill level.

Leg to Ski: A Quick Lesson in Power TransferFor skiers, the flex of a boot is paramount. It’s what drives the power from your core and lower half to the skis below your feet. Rated from 40 to over 140, the boot’s flex rating reflects a skier’s ability, the kind of terrain she prefers, the average speed she travels, and the amount of comfort she wants. The higher the flex rating, the stiffer the boot.

More aggressive, high-level skiers and racers opt for a high flex rating because it increases the efficiency of the boots response. In other words, when they press their shins into a stiff boot, little to none of that pressure is lost. It goes straight down to the ski. When a skier wearing a softer boot—one with a lower flex rating—performs the same movement, much of that pressure gets absorbed. This relationship is what boot and binding engineers refer to as power transmission.

Bindings, instead of ranging in flex, are set ac-cording to Deutsch Industrial Norm, or DIN. This advanced calculation system takes into ac-count the height and weight of a skier, her terrain

choices and skiing style, as well as the boot sole length in order to set the amount of torque and forward lean her ski bindings should have. For an idea of where yours should be set, plug in your info at dinsetting.com. Only certified profession-als should ever mess with your DIN setting.

“In skiing, it’s about spring retention,” says Paul Parker, ski boot product manager for Garmont. The materials in a ski binding are not meant to bend, so, put simply, what enables turning is your shin pressing the front flex of the boot and the springs of your ski bindings responding to that pressure.

Most bindings ski pretty comparably, he argues. But because boots transmit power to the spring of the binding and not directly to the binding, boot stiffness is a more important factor than overall binding stiffness. This reiterates why more aggres-sive skiers look for a stiffer boot that can transfer more energy.

Snowboarders Are Softies: A Lesson in Choosing the Right Boot-Binding Combo For snowboarders, the boot-binding team works very differently than it does for skiers. Even the most aggressive riders may prefer a softer boot, which is fine, since the flex is determined by the combination of your boots and bindings.

“As you are snowboarding, the boot and the bind-ing work as a complete system,” explains Ride Snowboards’ boot engineer Treu Hahnenberger.

Snowboarders make toeside and heelside turns, which require support on the front of the ankle and back of the ankle, respectively.

When a snowboarder initiates a toeside turn, the ankle extends toward the snow. (Many other things occur in a snowboarder’s body to make this turn happen but, for our comprehension of binding functionality, this is the focal action.) The ankle strap holds your feet on the baseplate. As the ankle extends in a toeside turn, it pushes on the part of the ankle strap closest to your shin, pressures the part of the baseplate under your toes, and engages the edge below them.

Heelside turns are the opposite. Ankles flex away from the snow, lifting the toes. (Again, many other blended movements occur to initiate, con-trol, and finish a heelside turn.) As that flexion occurs, your ankles drive pressure up against the ankle strap into highback, the extended part of the baseplate supporting the heel and lower calf. That pressure on the highback tips the board to the heelside.

“Transmission between boot and binding has to do with two factors: the overall stiffness of the boot and, with a toeside turn, the ankle strap and baseplate. On heelside turns, it’s a lot more dependent on stiffness of the binding. Most of the boot is supported by the binding,” explains Hahnenberger.

Depending on personal choice in boot or bind-ing, Hahnenberger says, you can achieve a similar level of power transmission—soft boot plus stiffer binding or vice versa. A stiffer boot compensates for a softer ankle strap. Or, if a rider prefers a softer boot, she’ll need to find a binding with a more powerful ankle strap.

Boots and Bindings 201 How to improve comfort and up your skill level by making the right gear choices

By MacKenzie Ryan

Glossarybaseplate: the bottom portion of a snowboard binding that connects the binding to the board, generally made from a plastic composite, occasionally made of aluminum or infused with carbon and fiberglass to strengthen, stiffen, and lighten up the binding

highback: the extended part of the baseplate supporting the heel and lower calf; promotes heelside turning

ankle straps: hold in your foot; find 3D-contoured straps with a pre-molded curvature to fit the boot better and reduce crimping and bunching, com-mon causes of discomfort

toe straps: usually a toe cap, designed to sit over the front of the boot and pull snug the boot back into the heel cup of the binding; some will be a hybrid strap that can be used in both the traditional style, laying over the boot, or as a toe cap. Toe caps enable better response and allow for the ankle strap to be ridden more loosely so normal circulation in the foot can keep it warm.

DIN setting: Deutsch Industrial Norm, an advanced calculation and standardization system that takes into account the height and weight of a skier, her terrain choices, and skiing style

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 19

wTech Talk

“The real key in power transmission is getting the system fi tting nicely and snugly,” he says. Do you tend to over-crank your bindings and end up with uncomfortable pressure points? You’re trying to compensate for too-soft a boot and too-soft a binding combined together. “The binding is what connects you to your board; that’s what drives all your power from your legs to your board. As you get to more aggressive riding and terrain, the general rule of thumb is you move into slightly stiffer and more responsive product,” he adds. Laymen’s translation: the harder you ride, the more challenging the terrain you conquer, the stiffer either your binding or boots have to be in order to deliver the response you need.

Just as ski bindings’ DIN settings are adjustable, so is the forward lean on a snowboard binding’s highback. Increased forward lean heightens the pressure on your lower calves and forces your knees to bend more. Having a little extra bend in the knees gives a beginner or intermediate rider improved body position that helps start and support a toeside turn. The additional pressure of the highback on the lower calves means a quicker response to the initiation of the heelside turn, too. Beware of too much forward lean as your riding progresses. Unlike skiing, where too low or high a DIN setting can determine whether you go to the emergency room or for après-ski drinks, fi nd-ing the right amount of forward lean is an issue of comfort for higher level snowboarders. The increased calf pressure that was so great for your form when you were riding 5 mph isn’t going to be as comfortable when you’re riding 30 mph. If you’re a woman, you have some additional considerations when choosing boots or bindings. We all know there’s more to making a women’s product than slapping on some girly graphics, and here’s why.

Women are generally shorter than men, with lower calf muscles, narrower feet, and a lower center of gravity. Therefore, when trying on boots, it’s absolutely critical to make sure their shape and height don’t create a pressure point on the back of your leg. Next, consider your liners. Do they fi t comfortably—not too loose or too tight? Are they conforming or custom moldable? Do they insulate well? Seeking out an experienced bootfi tter—yes, even if you’re a snowboarder—is a necessity. The most under-rated people in the industry, certifi ed bootfi tters can make room for your wide forefoot, close the gap around your heel, and make custom liners or footbeds to prevent long-term damage and shortened days on the hill. “Everyone’s feet are different,” Hahnenberger points out. “Always try on a number of boots to fi nd the most comfort-able fi t, sitting down with a shop employee. Discussing your riding style is also really key.” Be choosey about your bindings, too. In skiing, women’s specifi c bindings usually have a lower DIN setting to accommodate their weight, which is typically lower than men’s. Parker recommends that women who ski with their bindings set at 8, for example, buy bindings that have a DIN up to 12 over ones that only go up to 10. He claims your bindings’ springs work better in the middle of the range than at the extremes of their range. “It will have a more predictable release because you don’t have the binding maxed out,” he explains. Ride Snow-boards puts out a binding that angles riders’ feet, called wedgies, to help reduce fatigue. “Wedgies are a great example of trends in snowboard-ing that are really helping people ride more comfortably, get better stances, and feel better during their snowboarding day,” Hahnenberger says. “With women being slightly shorter, it’s more work to get your joints lined up. Now they can get into a wider stance and be more comfortable.” Highback shaping is also a huge one for women. You want more curve and twist to the highback to get stability for maximum responsiveness while keeping the comfort you want. Having a U-shape, or curve, to the top of the highback will prevent additional pressure to your lower calf and relieve a ton of discomfort. Gripping a highback between both your hands and twisting it left and right will give you a pretty clear idea of how soft the binding is going to be. But, remember bindings with lots of twist won’t necessarily lend the response you need if you’re an advanced rider. Just like picking the right boots, talk to a shop employee about your riding and decide how stiff your bindings need to be, then work from there to determine your boot choice.


w Beyond

This summer, Diane Van Deren set a new record on the 1,000-mile Mountains-to-

Sea Trail (MST). She traversed North Carolina in 22 days, 5 hours, and 3 minutes, surpassing the previous record of 24 days, 3 hours, and 50 minutes. The MST Run was meant to support the work of Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, the non-profit that builds, protects, and promotes the MST. To date, the campaign has raised more than $32,000. “But greater than that has been the notoriety and attention that Diane’s expedition brought to the trail,” says expedition leader Chuck Millsaps, of the Great Outdoor Provision Co. (greatoutdoorprovision.com) in North Carolina.

The MST Run also proved that Diane is more than just another ultra runner. She’s an extraor-dinary woman with a big heart and seemingly unlimited physical strength, despite a limiting disability. Years ago, Diane underwent life-giving brain surgery to halt debilitating seizures. She

Mountains-to-Sea and BeyondGlobal endurance athlete and record-setting ultra runner Diane Van Deren is not just another remarkable athlete. She’s an extraordinary woman with seemingly unlimited physical strength despite a limiting mental disability.

By Jennifer C. Olson

hasn’t seized since, but now her remarkable athleticism is often and wrongly attributed to the supposed advantages of having a brain injury.

While her MST record brought a lot of media attention to the trail and its newest champion, some of the news outlets got her story wrong. And it devastated Diane. One headline read “Brain Injury Adds Endurance” for example, which discounts all the hard work, prepara-tion, and team effort that went into Diane’s accomplishment.

“The MST Run was the most challenging thing I’ve ever done—more challenging than the 430-mile Yukon Arctic Ultra across a frozen wilder-ness,” Diane says. “But, I have to tell you, looking at this headline almost kills me. If brain surgery really added endurance, every elite athlete in the most extreme races in the world would want to get it done. All I did was cure my seizures.”

So, Diane shares with Women’s Adventure the real story and tells us how she earned that record.

“I dug so deep,” Diane explains about her three weeks on the MST. “I was crawling some morn-ings. Every day I got up and there was blood everywhere.” She’d worn down the padding on one of her feet and built countless blisters—one on top of another—that she hoped wouldn’t get infected after exposure to mud and gunk.

“It was horrific—what I dealt with. But,” Diane pauses, “it wasn’t the brain surgery. Brain surgery gave me the possession of life.”

Guide runners read maps of the trail and led Diane in the right direction so she could conserve the energy she would have spent navigating. “With my brain injury, mental fatigue does affect me, even after working with the doctor at Craig Hospital for a long time. If I did interviews all day, then had a speaking engagement, then went to the store, I’d be knocked on my butt. I can run 50 miles, but add trying to read maps and get directions from people, and I’d be exhausted.”

Always positive, though, Diane says, “I got the job done! With my disability and the way the trail was written, it would’ve been hard for me solo, especially being so sleep deprived.”

Chuck, who coordinated guide runners, com-municated with the public, and served as a liaison with the media, can testify to Diane’s lively spunk. “For example,” Chuck offers, “sometimes we were surprised to find the media out in the wilderness with us. Other times, we heard about newscasters up ahead, and she’d joke, ‘How does my lip shimmer look?’”

Chuck describes Diane as a delight, a wonderful combination of endurance and grace. “We had so many obstacles thrown at us over that time, and she responded to all of them with class and determination.”

He describes one such obstacle: “We were on our twentieth or twenty-first day and headed up the outer banks, when what had been Tropical Storm Beryl as it hit land in Florida was bearing down on us. We were so close to finishing, yet this particular day was one of the longest days of

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w Beyond

the run, plus we had to make three ferries. These ferries only run on certain schedules. We were running into a black sky near Highway 12 and could see the coast. This unmistakable sound of a tornado was just off to our east. She did not recognize that sound, but I’d been in one before. We were tethered together but running along and being blown off the road when she asked me, ‘What is that sound?’ I responded, ‘Oh it’s probably a boat or an airplane. I didn’t want to get her riled up.’ And she said, ‘That is so bizarre. Can you imagine flying in these conditions?’ When we got to the ferry and jumped on it, the ferry driver looked at us and said, ‘What in the world are you knuckleheads doing when there’s a tornado nearby?’ And Diane looked at me like, ‘Tornado?’”

Diane is amazed at the support she received from Chuck and Great Outdoor Provisions Co. “I’ve been a professional athlete for 12 years, and it’s rare for all the logistics of an expedition to come together smoothly.”

The crew would pick her up, throw her in the back of a truck, haul her back to the trail early in the morning, and wait for her as she wrestled her feet into shoes, even if it took an hour. Chuck and two other crew members together made decisions with Diane’s best interest at heart and with her record goal in mind. “At one point, someone assigned me the title of expedition leader,” he said, “and it was scary. This was not a Himalayan adventure.”

But, Diane looked out for her crew, too. Chuck says, “She was on the trail for 20 hours a day, running on a couple hours of sleep and yet was checking on us!” Similarly, Diane supported her guide runners, many of whom ran more miles than they ever had before while leading her on the MST. She befriended them and lists them by name, even today.

On Memorial Day, a soldier ran with Diane. “I met Tom on the trail at four in the morning and thanked him for running with me, and he said, ‘Mrs. Van Deren, I served in Afganistan twice. I’ve never been lost and I’m here to serve and take care of you.’ I cried. I cry now, because he’s like my son. Tom would flag cars for me. I told him he didn’t have to, but he said, ‘I’m here to protect you.’ He’d tell me, ‘Mrs. Van Deren, if you want to put your hand on my shoulder, go ahead.’ Or ‘I can hold your water bottle out here for you.’ He knew I was hurting. We went 30–50 miles then he left. Four days later, Chuck told me someone was meeting me. It was Tom. His other Marine buddy drove him hours to meet me on the trail. Now if that didn’t choke you …”

Tom escorted Diane into town. They ran by a memorial, where American flags were flying. Diane thanked him for being there, and he said, “My wife just had a baby and she told me to come back and be with you.” That’s the sort of magic and the type of emotions Diane experienced on this expedition.

Sometimes she’d have just one person, sometimes two or three guide run-ners. Being in the South, they would answer her with “Yes, ma’am,” and “No ma’am,” which surprised her a bit. “Call me Di,” she said.

One hot day, Diane was running on the road with two college-aged men as her guide runners. “I was getting hot so I turned around and took off my bra then shoved it in one guy’s pack,” she said. “An hour or two later, he asked, ‘Mrs. Van Deren,’ in his southern drawl, ‘would you like your bra back?’ I mean, where do you hear that stuff? It cooled down, then got to be the middle of the night on the next day, and the boys got to be a little wobbly. So I thought I’d make a joke. What do you think of when you think of col-lege boys? Farting. They like to fart. So I said, ‘Hey boys, would you like to have a farting contest?’ and I ripped one. That got them going. I told Chuck that there are two things I’m proud of: the run and winning the fart contest. If you’re gonna go for glory, you’ve gotta go big. Finally I told them, after hours, that the joke was over. It had to stop.”

The expedition crew fed her well. “The back of the truck was like a Whole Foods,” she said. And, when she returned home, the supply of nutritious fare didn’t dwindle. “People kept bringing me food. I said, ‘I didn’t die! It’s not a funeral.’ You know how, when people die, others bring over ham. It was kind of cool—I hate to cook!”

Last time I spoke to Diane Van Deren, she was just back from a 55-mile race in Chile. “I went down there with some The North Face friends and spoke at a university, too,” she said, raving about the passionate, loving people in Santiago. “The race went well. How could it not? With Aconcagua as a backdrop for it.” She climbed Aconcagua back in 2010 so she appreciates the view like few can.

I asked for an update and she joked, “My cooking hasn’t improved, but I only set off one fire alarm this week, so I’m getting better.”

But, truly, Diane’s future looks good. She collaborated with Today show co-anchor Hoda Kotb on a chapter in a book called Ten Years Later: Six People Who Faced Adversity and Transformed Their Lives to be released January 15. “It’s exciting to inspire others and give hope,” Diane said. “I’m a wife, mom, and athlete, so I get to wear many different hats.”

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Career-wise, Diane will continue representing The North Face on a speaking series and through racing. Rumor has it she’ll be the keynote speaker at a major U.S. ultra race this summer, too. “It’s my job, but it’s my passion,” she said.

Still, one wonders what drives her to dig that deep. She goes so much farther and harder than anything most of us have ever attempted.

“I knew I was different at a young age. I was faster than the girls and the boys. I left to play professional tennis at age 17. People ask whether I was like this before my surgery. I say, ‘Oh gosh, I think I’ve slowed down!’ But I still love what I do. I’m still hungry. I’m still having fun. I’m healthy. Every-thing I’ve portrayed as an athlete since age 17 is what I had right there with me on the MST.”

Regarding the Mountains-to-Sea Trail record, she says, “There is no way in hell no man or woman is ever going to beat that record. But I can’t say it was because of my brain surgery. It was really hard.”

Chuck agrees. “Had we known what we were getting ourselves into, we would never have signed up. But at the end of it, we just wouldn’t have traded it for anything,” he said.M

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Explore the snowy

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Why Visit?Wintertime heightens the ap-peal of Old Québec City. The Québecois have a 400-year his-tory of venturing in snow and ice as work and play. The chill of the season has a cheerful presence in this European-fl avored city, especially during Winter Carnival, a centuries-old lively tradition. carnaval.qc.ca

CULTURERecognized as the cradle of French civilization in North America, Québec extends a hearty “Bonjour” to tourists, as most of the population speaks French. Certainly you will never go hungry in this Franco-in-spired foodie destination, where bistros, cafes, and patisseries line cobblestone streets. Save your calories for a deliciously deca-dent après ski hot chocolate!

OUTDOOR SPORTS Ice skating, cross country ski-ing, snowshoeing, ice hockey, tobogganing, downhill skiing, dog sledding, snowboarding, ice river canoeing, ice climbing, and canyoneering.

LANDSCAPE The Saint Lawrence River has been the backbone of Québec City since it was founded, provid-ing a major port of entry and exit for ocean vessels. The original sixteenth-century fortifi cation stone walls still surround the hilltop city that overlooks the Saint Lawrence River and the Laurentian mountains, where lovely vistas abound no matter your vantage point.

TEMPERATUREWinter temps hover near 0 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

NEAREST AIRPORTQuébec City Jean Lesage Inter-national Airport

T he French knew a good thing when Samuel Champlain fi rst set foot

onto the “New World” in the 1600s. As part of France’s stake in claiming a portion of the massive land grab, Champlain quickly settled onto a hilly perch boasting an extraordinary view of the Saint Lawrence River. The early settlers referred to the land as Québec mean-ing “where the river narrows.” Now, we know a good thing when we see it, too. The beautiful walled town became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and remains a favorite place among travelers across the globe.

The Québec Winter Carnival adds extra excitement during January and February. The Carnival origins began with the French Colony inhabitants feasting, drinking, and mak-ing merry right before Lent. It’s expanded quite a bit since the early days, becoming the world’s largest winter celebra-tion. This three-week event celebrates with night parades, snow baths, the International Snow Sculpture Competition, dogsled rides, skijoring, snow rafting, and activities based on the traditional Québec lifestyle, such as canoe races and dogsled races. Not to be missed is ice skating with the carnival ambas-sador Bonhomme, a snowman who stands as a beloved fi gure in Québec. So—for a vaca-tion that’s both culturally rich and adventurous—plan a trip around the 2013 Québec Win-ter Carnival, February 1-17. carnaval.qc.ca

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Go play during the day, then return to one of these hotel homebases to rest up at night.

Fairmont Le Château FrontenacLUXURY RESORT HOTEL

T he most prominent building crowning the Québec City

skyline is also one of the most rec-ognized landmarks of Old Québec and is now a National Historic Site of Canada. Le Chateau Frontenac has been a bastion of hospitality for more than 100 years and is very good at treating their guests like royalty. Plus, in winter, the ice and snow drape the turrets like dia-monds and ermine wrapped round a royal neck. The stunning facade gives the impression of a castle, especially since it sits atop a hill. You can feel like a princess rather than a traveler at this luxury hotel. Even if you don’t stay at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, try to visit for a meal or ride the snow slide next to the hotel. You’ll enjoy the ambiance and the central location to Winter Carnival and other sites in the heart of Old Québec. Special ski packages available. Rooms from $179 CAN; fairmont.com/frontenac-quebec/

Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe The Plains of Abraham, a historic battlefield and park, is a 15-minute walk from the hotel and boasts 7 miles of beginner and intermediate cross country ski trails, plus a 2-mile circuit trail for snowshoeing. Enjoy a snow sport day within the ramparts of Old Québec with views of the St. Lawrence River—for free! The Friends of the Plains of Abraham offers boot, pole, and ski rentals at Level 0 of the Discovery Pavilion. Equip-ment rental 418-648-2586; Discovery Pavilion of the Plains of Abraham 418-648-4071; ccbn-nbc.gc.ca

Toboggan Run The Dufferin Terrace, a two-minute walk from the back of the hotel, has been a local favorite for 100 years. It features The Glissades de la Terrasse, an ice slide that is open throughout winter daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The slide stands 270-feet high. You can zip down one of the three lanes at 60 mph and land literally at the footsteps of the Fairmont Le Châ-teau Frontenac. quebecregion.com

Day Trips from Québec City

Ski Train to Le Massif Ski ResortExcursion to the Mountains package, One-Day Trip: Leave at 8 a.m. and enjoy breakfast on the train with spectacular views out the window. Ski, board, or rodel (sled and luge) all day. Board the train at 4:30 p.m. from Le Massif, nibble on tapas, and arrive back in Québec at 6:15 p.m., in time for dinner and Winter Carnival events in the city. lemassif.com/en/accueil

Tip: Le Massif created a spe-cially designed trail just for rodeling on Mont à Liguori. The 4-mile run is a guided descent from the summit, and it takes about two hours to zigzag down to the bottom. The fun factor is huge! lemassif.com/en/montagne/luge

Ski Shuttle to Mont Sainte-Anne and Le Massif Ski ResortsEarly morning pick up from your hotel in Québec City to either resort with return at the end of the day. Call 418-664-0460 for reservations. toursvieuxquebec.com

Mont Sainte-Anne Downhill Ski Resort Mont Sainte-Anne Ski Resort is only a 40-minute drive from Québec City and is the premier ski resort closest to the city. Of its 66 trails, snow-boarding is permitted on 33, and night skiing is available, too. mont-sainte-anne.com

Tip: If you have always wanted to rappel down an icy waterfall, this is the place to do it. Try ice canyoneering with a vetted outfitter located in the resort. Beginners will appreciate the patient and skillful instruction of Canyoning-Québec. canyoning-quebec.com

More info on Québec City and adventures within the province: quebecregion.com; adventure-ecotourisme.qc.ca

SNOWY ADVENTURES NEARBY

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Auberge Saint-AntoineBOUTIQUE HOTEL

This small and sophisticated property is one of the most unique establishments in Old Québec

City. If the original seventeenth-century stone walls of the building near the Old Port could talk, maritime exploits and stories of New France would fill the halls. Instead, history reveals itself in the form of artifacts discovered from city-led archaeological digs during multiple building renovations. As a guest, you will discover beautifully integrated designs through-out the hotel that showcase many of the treasured artifacts. The hotel is as much about providing fine hospitality as it is about featuring the area’s rich back-story—all served in an understated elegant manner. When it’s time to go play outside, head to the Plains of Abraham or Winter Carnival events and walk along the nearby Place Royale, which is the city’s oldest section, dating back to 1608. Their Winter Wonderland package includes out-door excursions. Rooms from $189 CAN; saint-antoine.com

Outdoor Ice Skating Skate for free in the center of Old Québec at the Place d’Youville rink, a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Locals and tourists spin and twirl at this well-known ice skating hub near St. Jean Gate. Open daily from noon to 10 p.m. with nighttime lighting. Rental skates available. Call 418-641-6256 for information.

Snow Walking, Jogging, and Running Circuit A circuit route through Old Québec starts directly outside the hotel. Ask the concierge for the hotel’s running map for guests. In these 2.7 miles, you travel through the historic areas near Place Royale, to the bike path along the river, up the stairs to the Plains of Abraham, and then curving through streets back to the hotel.

Hôtel de Glace ICE HOTEL OF CANADA

C areful construction and artful design goes into building the one-of-a-kind

icy abode every year. Artisans sculpt fantastic themed suites and all the furniture—including the bed you will sleep on—throughout the ice hotel. Suites feature carved ice and snow nightstands, headboards, seating areas, and candelabra, too. Don’t worry; the beds are covered in blankets, faux fur, and a sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temps to keep you toasty all night. LEDs illuminate your private igloo-room with a rainbow of colors that add to the magical display. Enjoy a nightcap in the Ice Bar and warm up in the outdoor sauna and hot tub before heading to bed. Truly, a dazzling experience. The Adventure Package includes dog sledding! From $179 CAN; hoteldeglace-canada.com

Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Ski de fond Charlesbourg, only 10 minutes from the hotel, is where you’ll find wooded and pristine trails that offer beautiful views of Québec City and the Chaudière-Appa-laches region. There are 15 cross country skiing circuits (18 miles), two snowshoe trails (9 miles), and 11 miles of hiking trails. Available on site: equipment rentals, a waxing room, warming huts, and snacks. skidefondcharlesbourg.com

Winter Playground Park Valcartier Vacation Village, also 10 minutes from the hotel, puts a winter-themed twist on the water parks offered in summer. Instead of water slides, think snow and ice slides–more than 35 snow slides! Go-Karting becomes Ice-Karting, and snow rafting and regular ice skating are options, too. valcartier.com/glissades-d-hiver/en



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I ce, snow, and freezing temperatures sound more like a recipe for disaster than prime competitive

conditions for a canoe race. But, for the athletes who compete in the Québec Ice Canoe Race, the variable circumstances add to the adrenaline-focused efforts of their annual competition. The Québec Ice Canoe Race originated in the late nineteenth-century as a competition between families to earn the contract to deliver the mail. Early day settlers used heavy wooden canoes to ferry supplies, mail, medicine, and passengers to communities on the other side of the river, cross-

The Women Pioneers of Ice Canoe River RacingA Québec Tradition Turns Co-Ed

By Gigi Ragland

ing the St. Lawrence in extreme winter weather. It took stamina, courage, and keen navigational skills to circumvent the ice floes, fast current, winds, and quickly changing tides. Canoeists who ply the St. Lawrence today muster the same skill set but, instead of delivering mail, they compete in a distinctly homegrown extreme sport, racing against the clock with the fastest team heralded as the winner.

In the past 25 years, women have made solid headway in the sport of ice canoe racing. Captain

of the Auberge Saint-Antoine Ice Canoe team, Stéphanie Drouin, began competitively rac-ing in 1991 as a member of the only and first all-female racing team. “When I started, there were 10 teams total. In 2012, there were 45 teams competing.” She recalls watching the race from a tugboat with her father when she was a little girl and exclaiming, “I’m going to do that, Dad!” Drouin’s childhood summers were spent sailing with her family, which cultivated her love of water sports.

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VERVE 10MOUNTAIN BIKING / HIKING / TRAIL RUNNING

PHOTO CREDIT/RYAN BONNEAU

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In her case, the transition to ice canoeing was a natural progression, especially for a Québec local. But, it is not for everybody, she emphasizes. “You need to be an outdoorsy person and love winter. You can’t just be an athlete and think you can do it with ease.” The recruiting process for the first five team members was slow; the time commitment was just too much for most women who were married, had kids, and were working. Reserving time to not only practice but also maintain the boat was—and is today—the biggest obstacle for most team members.

Elisabeth Quirion, another veteran from the first women’s team, agrees that time is the most crucial element; weekends are spent in the water working on short intervals or longer efforts. But, for Elisabeth, the toughest part has not been on the ice; it’s been the equally demanding chunk of time it takes transporting the canoe, waxing it, repairing it, finding sponsors, and traveling for races, not to mention the physical training. “It’s a lot for a working mom,” she says. Sponsorships have had a great impact on the sport, helping to ease the expensive and time-intensive burden of maintaining the canoe. So, getting a team sponsor is like being gifted the golden egg. It ultimately

frees up time for the team members to focus on more training and water skills.

Evan Price, co-owner of Auberge Saint-Antoine Hotel, liked the idea of supporting a women’s team, claiming, “It’s one of the toughest sports, bar none. Women have been outstanding con-tributors to the sport. They are damn good and often beat the men! Plus,” he adds, “women’s teams are so much more careful about the image they project—from the condition of the canoe to the choice of the uniforms—than men’s teams. It’s really a no brainer from a sponsor’s perspec-tive.” As soon as Price discovered that Drouin was searching for a new team, he snatched her up as captain for the hotel’s elite women’s team. “We knew Stéphanie and were certain she would be a superb representative of our hotel,” he explains.

Despite the difficulties, more women have been drawn to the emerging extreme sport since its beginning 20 years ago. Elisabeth compares the differences: “Racing has become very serious: Girls train hard, and teams keep only the best members. Plus, they have more sponsors now,” she says. The competition has become more in-tense with the aim to pursue faster times. “When

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we started, the challenge was only to finish the race, now the challenge is to finish in a good posi-tion,” adds Elisabeth.

Like Stéphanie Drouin and many families that live near the St. Lawrence, water sports are a favorite family pastime. Elisabeth met her future husband and his brother while they were training for the sport, which piqued her interest to seek out a women’s team. She eventually joined the first women’s team, along with Stéphanie Drouin, and spent 13 years racing.

In 2011, her daughter Genevieve decided to follow in the family’s footsteps. “Since I grew up watching my mom, dad, uncles, cousins, and brother ice canoe, I wanted to take my turn, too,” explains Genevieve. But little did Elisabeth know that her daughter’s plan included her, too. “It had been seven years since I stopped ice canoe racing when Genevieve came home from college and proposed we start a team,” states Elisabeth.

So the experienced veteran became the new team’s captain, coaching the enthusiastic young team of her daughter and her girlfriends. Genevieve says

she has learned a lot from her mom and was com-fortable with her mom’s leadership skills. Veteran and newbie, mother and daughter, each face all the same challenges together. Genevieve admits, “Sometimes the ice is tricky; it cracks under your feet, the canoe sticks on it when it is full of new snow, or the ice is slushy so the canoe won’t grip on it. That’s when I become a bit fearful. But, I am confident because of my mom’s experience.”

Evan Price points out that more and more women are ice canoeing with performances that can match many of the men racers. “At a distance, a spectator would have a hard time distinguishing one from the other,” he says. The best race for spectators takes place during Québec City Winter Carnival in February. Teams row from Québec City to Lévis (across the river) and back. Scores of spectators flock to the harbor on race day, even in frosty frigid conditions, to watch the intrepid teams maneuver the icy route.

Elisabeth Quirion thinks that the sport will have a continuing women’s presence and that women will perhaps even grow the sport’s future. “There

To learn more about the Ice Canoe Races unique to the Québec City area visit the Association de Canot a Glace de Québec (ACCGQ) online at canotaglace.org and circuitQuébecoiscanotaglace.org.

Québec Ice Canoe River Racing (Continued)is a type of woman made for that type of extreme sport and there always will be,” she says. It looks like that is a great possibility; with daughter Gen-evieve, the next generation is on its way.

Goods for Your Pack-and-Go Winter AdventuresBy Gigi Ragland

Krimson Klover Snowflake TightsThe Possibilities: These fun and finely knit wool tights are perfect to wear under those cute new insu-lated skirts this winter. The creative designs add a little panache to any outfit.The Goods: Choose from a variety of tex-tures and cozy neutral colors. Merino wool combines with nylon and Lycra to keep your legs nice and toasty. $49; krimsonklover.com

Merrell Nikita Waterproof Winter BootsThe Possibilities: Slushy snow and slick streets have met their match with the new tough “femme” of winter boots. Merrell debuts Nikita, made to kick some as-phalt or tromp through the ice and snowpack while keeping your feet comfy, warm, and dry.The Goods: Featuring faux fur lining (a girl’s gams gotta look good!) and performance-enhanced with details like full-grain leather and suede waterproof uppers, plus PRIMALOFT® insulation and Merrell Conductor fleece for ultimate warmth. $165; merrell.com

Arc’teryx Meta Snowsport JacketThe Possibilities: The slim, athletic fit of the new Meta packs in as much warmth as thicker, puffier parkas, which makes it a great piece for travel with less weight and bulk to stash in your suitcase or on your body for quick getaways to powder country. This is the only jacket you will need to take with you from the plane or train or car to the slopes.The Goods: Besides their careful attention to detail, Arc’teryx introduced their new Core-loft™ Compact insulation into their 2012 jacket collection. The material’s thickness is reduced by 50% but maintains maximum thermal efficiency. $699; arcteryx.com

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 31

travelTravel Gear

Great WallGreat Wall

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per person based upon 2 people sharing room.

BASIC TOUR INCLUDES:13 Days / 10 Nights • Game Safari in Tanzania including famous

Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National ParkDeluxe Camping Safari • Most meals • Official Run Fee

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Eagle Creek No Matter What Rolling DuffelThe Possibilities: Travelers who have dragged their stuffed duffels along concrete floors, over gravelly trails, and up and down stairwells will appreci-ate Eagle Creek’s durable and thoughtfully designed new duffel. The large oversized wheels make it easy to roll over obstacles.The Goods: Eagle Creek offers the No Matter What Warranty, meaning no matter what happens to your bag (even if an airline damaged it), Eagle Creek will fix or replace it for free. However, the bags’ durable construc-tion and hardware means you won’t be parting company with them anytime soon. $130; eaglecreek.com

Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down JacketThe Possibilities: It’s hard to believe that the Ghost Whisperer weighs less than a typical First-Class letter. At only 6 ounces, this “whisper” of a down jacket is a clear choice to stow in your luggage or even your purse for added warmth in unexpected conditions.The Goods: The super compressible 850-fill quilted down insulation allows this jacket to be stowed in its own pocket for easy portage. Ultra-light and ultra-warm with two hand-warmer pockets and full elastic cuffs, the jacket is avail-able in four colors. $285; mountainhardwear.com

w On the Map

On the Map


Minnesota

Costa Rica

Colorado

Japan

Botswana

South Africa

Finland

Switzerland

National Winter Trails Day and Girlfriends Snowshoe GetawaysWhether you’re experienced or new to the sport, come to Estes Park, Colorado, on January 12 and snowshoe for free! Take in the breathtaking scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park that surrounds Estes Park, then check out The Warming House that offers custom Girlfriends Snowshoe Getaways for adventurous groups of women to snowshoe for a second day, too. warminghouse.com

Surf & Yoga Adventure RetreatLearn how to surf and stretch your body and mind in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, from February 10-16 or May 5-11, 2013. Come and learn how to play again, fi nd balance, grace, and joy, and meet some incredible women by participating on a Women’s Quest adventure. womensquest.com/retreats

Adventures and Opportunities to Explore, Play, and Carpe Diem!

By Katherine Maguid

Winter Teva Mountain GamesCompete for $60,000 in prize money at the Winter Teva Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado, during the weekend of February 8-10. Take part in mixed climbing, a snow crit, dual slalom biking, Nordic and telemark skiing, ski mountaineering, and snowshoe racing. Or at least join in the fun and watch world-class athletes in action. The games also include a one-day vertical challenge in Vail’s legendary Back Bowls, where you can try skiing as much territory as possible while the lifts are running. mountaingames.com/winter

Women’s Dog MushingLearn how to run your own small team of sled dogs through miles of beautiful trails in the remote wilderness of northern Minnesota (February 7-10, 2013). Detailed instruction is provided in an atmosphere fi lled with support and encouragement. While there, take advantage of being in the beautiful wintery outdoors and enjoy cross country skiing and snowshoeing, too. points-unknown.com

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WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 33

wOn the Map

Minnesota

Costa Rica

Colorado

Japan

Botswana

South Africa

Finland

Switzerland

Botswana “Wing” SafariEnjoy an African wildlife safari on the Okavanga Delta, Botswana, and see the largest wetland wonderland in the world this May 8-18, 2013. Complete the adventure with a trip to the Zambezi River and travel to Victoria Falls in Zambia, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. adventurewomen.com

Cycling the Cape and WinelandsEscape the winter cold and enjoy the stunning beauty of Cape Town, South Africa, from February 9-20 or March 23-April 3, 2013, all from the seat of your bike. You’ll view the scenery surrounding Cape Town—including Table Mountain, the wild coastline, the rugged interior, and plentiful wildlife—on this bike tour that will lead you to the world famous wine estates in Stellenbosch, where you can participate in wine tastings. http://www.adventurecenter.com/tripcode?tripcode=mzc

Husky Safari in FinlandCome explore Finland, the Arctic Circle, and Finnish Lapland on an eight-day husky safari between January and April, 2013. Learn to handle your team of dogs and sled, and take in the wintery scenery as your huskies pull your sled through one of Europe’s few remaining wilderness areas. Enjoy a wilderness hotel, Scandinavian-style accommodations, saunas, shared meals, and even the chance to see the Aurora Borealis—everything designed to take you into the heart of Lapland’s winter wilderness. http://www.responsiblevacation.com/vacation/3817/husky-safari-in-fi nland

Sapporo Snow FestivalEnjoy one of Japan’s most popular winter events: the Sapporo Snow Festival (February 5-11, 2013). The spectacular snow and ice sculptures, some of which measure more than 25 meters wide and 15 meters high, attract more than two million visitors from around the world. The sculptures are lit up daily until 10 p.m. While visiting Japan, be sure to check out Niseko, Rusutsu, and Moiwa ski resorts. All three areas boast the best powder in the country. http://www.powderhounds.com/Japan/Hokkaido/Niseko.aspx

Ski and Ride VerbierEnhance your 2012-2013 ski and snowboarding season with three days of free access to the Verbier ski resort in Switzerland! This year, the Vail Resorts’ Epic Season Pass not only grants you unlimited, unrestricted skiing and riding at eight world-class mountain resorts in the U.S., but also lends you the chance to experience Les 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest ski area. The “Four Valleys” ski area boasts breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley and the Matterhorn, and extends to the Valais and Bernese Alps. vailresorts.com

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HolidayHolidayHolidayGift GuideGift GuideGift Guide

Platypus HydrationPlatypus SoftBottle

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Platypus PlatyPreserve Wine Preservation System

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Wigwam Mills, Inc.Merino Trailblaze Pro

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Planet BikeCourtesy Bell Classic

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Petzl TIKKA PLUS® 2

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For details on these gift ideas and WAM-exclusive special off ers, visit womensadventuremagazine.com.

WAM • XXXXXX | 2012 35

ExOfficioGive-N-Go Lacy Bikini

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Chaos HeadwearEvo Beanie

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Terramar SportsSmartSilk™ V-neck and SmartSilk™ Tights

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Jetboil Inc.Jetboil Flash Java Kit

$99.95Free coff ee press and coff ee sample.

Allen SportsMT-2 Folding 2-Bike Rack

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Patagonia FootwearAdvocate Lace

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Hotronic Snapdry Boot & Glove Dryer

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Fischer Sports USSport Bag

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Osprey PacksOzone 22”

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Redfeather SnowshoesWomen’s Pace Snowshoe Kit Value Package

$199.95Free Pace Nylon and Mesh Carry Bag with purchase.

SPOT Connect

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MagellanSwitch Series

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Liv/giantAnthem X 29er 0 W

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Maui Jim SunglassesLilikoi

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Fischer SportsVacuum Trinity 110

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MarmotWomen’s Speedlight Jacket

$425.00

Ariel Friedman, Leslie Glenn, Sandra Hillen—Breckenridge, Colorado, locals—cruise their hometown resort February 2012. Photographer Pat Branch says, “It was one of the few days during my Colorado trip that it dumped. We went up to shoot slashes and see what we could fi nd since it was snowing so hard and visibility was low. I was riding my little 140cm jib board (I’m 5’6”) and slicing through powder instead of fl oating, since my bigger board was at a friend’s place in another town.”

Ariel Friedman, Leslie Glenn, Sandra Hillen—Breckenridge, Colorado, locals—cruise their hometown resort February 2012. Photographer Pat Branch says, “It was one of the few days during my Colorado trip that it dumped. We went up to shoot slashes and see what we could fi nd since it was snowing so hard and visibility was low. I was riding my little 140cm jib board (I’m 5’6”) and slicing through powder instead of fl oating, since my bigger board was at a friend’s place in another town.”

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Snow is an art medium. From neighborhood snow angels to

expert skiers laying down fi gure-eight tracks on a mountainside, snow is naturally aesthetic and draws out our inner artists. A pure white blanket of fresh snow provides a blank canvas for expressing yourself. With every new storm or sunny day comes another opportunity to create some-thing uniquely you.

Snow artist Simon Beck has been stomping down breathtaking designs in the Alps for seven years. Using map and compass skills, basic math tools, and sheer tenacity, Si-mon plods, sometimes for ten hours straight, to create giant masterpieces of ephemeral art. He shares his expertise with Women’s Adventure readers interested in exploring this new medium.

Naturally uncomplicated, snowshoe art requires just a little planning and a few basic tools to get started. The designs consist of geometric shapes linked together to form complex and beautiful compositions, which are then laid down using snowshoes and a sighting compass.

Begin with a simple geometric shape, such as a star, and map it out on paper with a ruler and protractor to help visualize it once you go out-side. At your site, roughly determine the location of each of your star’s points and then walk in a straight

Snowshoe ArtCreate beautiful and intricate designs with your feet

By Casey Flynn

don’t• Aim at the wrong point. An easy mistake is to pick the wrong

landmark and then—oops!—a straight line turns crooked.

• Get burned. Put on plenty of sunscreen to protect you from sun refl ecting off the snow.

do• Dress warmly. Good gloves, a warm hat, and a change of

clothes will help you stay toasty.

• Start simple. Try a small, less complex design at fi rst and then let your ambition carry you on to larger projects, like the Flower of Life or Sierpinski Triangle.

• Choose the right site. An open, fl at area such as a fi eld, lake (test the ice fi rst!), or parking lot are best. Try to choose areas with minimal traffi c so others don’t tread on your work.

• Get a photo! Make sure you have a vantage point to take pho-tos of the fi nished product and share them with friends.

line from one of those points to the center. Count your paces into the middle so you know how long to make the other arms of your star. Creating straight lines is as easy as focusing on a single object in the distance and walking to it.

From the center, take bearings with a sighting compass to each of the re-maining points, using your drawing as a guide. Walk out to each point from the center, and then connect every point to every other point. Stylize your inaugural image with a little shading by stamping down selected areas of snow, and your piece is complete!

Simon listens to classical music to channel his muse. Find your inspira-tion and take to the snow!

GearA comfortable pair of snowshoes and a good sighting compass with a folding mirror—to allow you to maintain eye contact with your target and take an accurate reading—are all the specialized tools you’ll need. Suunto, Silva, and Brunton are quality brands. thecompassstore.com

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don’t• Build your shelter at the bottom of a slide path or in ava-

lanche-prone terrain.

• Make your walls too thin. Stop hollowing out the shelter when the snow appears blue or when it is 8–12 inches thick.

• Overexert yourself. Digging snow is inherently laborious, but sweaty clothing can make you cold and quickly becomes a problem.

do• Let the snow settle before excavating. The more time it has

to set, the more stable the shelter will be.

• Include a vent in the roof to help release carbon dioxide buildup. Use a long branch or ski pole as a placeholder for the vent while you’re building your shelter.

• Wear waterproof gloves and outerwear. Hollowing out the shelter is a wet process.

• Build an entrance on the leeward side of the slope, facing away from the wind.

• While wearing your gloves, smooth out the inside walls to prevent water from dripping.

Exploring the curiosities of a winter wonderland resonates

with my inner child. It’s rare that I traverse fi elds blanketed in un-touched snow without the urge to ditch my pack and splitboard and build a frosty fortress or stock a sup-ply of snowball ammo in case of an unexpected ambush.But the reasons for playing outside as an adult are different than they are as a kid, when snow days are spent building igloos by hand and letting the imagination run wild.

Anymore, snow days are ideally spent fl oating through powder in souped-up equipment, riding high-tech chairlifts, analyzing avalanche danger, and searching for an adrenaline rush in bigger, bolder ter-

rain. While these winter amenities are far from torturous, last winter I got eager to ditch modern toys and rediscover the innocent pleasure of playing in the snow without feeling the need to scheme up any extreme adventures.

During some downtime on a multi-day hut trip, I set out to build a snow cave with the help of a few friends. We had no plans to spend the night in one, nor were we desperate to build an emergency shelter. We were just out to have fun in the snow and, as a benefi t, pick up a new backcountry skill along the way.

Building a snow shelter isn’t rocket science, but the fi rst attempt was less than reassuring. We shov-eled sloppy spring powder into a behemoth pile of slush that, thanks to consistently warm temperatures, made for a poorly constructed dome on the verge of collapse. Soaking wet and nowhere near completion after fi ve hours of communal work, we called it quits—our shelter look-ing nothing like the step-by-step instructions I had copied from a winter survivalist’s website.

But here’s the thing—aside from a few basic principles, building a snow shelter doesn’t require a manual or any high-tech skills. So, abandon-ing any directions and relying on basic intuition, we made a second attempt a few weeks later. We took turns shoveling and digging and constructed a cozy two-person shelter in less than three hours with nothing more than a pair of shovels.

With our project fi nished, we lounged in our surprisingly warm dwelling and conspired plans for a third attempt, vowing to come back next time with our new skills and backpacks full of expensive gear to expedite the process.

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Build a Snow ShelterBy Stephanie Nitsch


a I’m Proof

K atie Meyer never walks away from challenges; if anything, she embraces them. In the face of

any kind of obstacle, Meyer remains calm, com-posed, and, above all, humble. The 56-year-old has experienced great success as an amateur Nor-dic skier, and earned a win at the World Masters Championships. She has celiac disease but thrives despite her allergy and, throughout everything, keeps her momentum.

After finding out about her condition in 2006 and making the requisite dietary modifications, Meyer’s health improved dramatically. And so did her performance on the Nordic course. About that time, Meyer also learned that she suffered from a milk allergy, so in addition to eliminating gluten from her diet, she also eliminated dairy. The combination of the two diet modifications allowed Meyer, a lifelong asthma sufferer, to never use her inhaler again—regardless of her athletic exertion.

The next three years after modifying her diet brought Meyer the best years of Nordic competi-tion she had ever enjoyed. In 2007, she won her first Nationals. A year later, Meyer competed at Big Shooter Bonk at Latigo Ranch, where she won the very hilly 30k race. This win was particu-larly satisfying since Meyer was able pass the two leaders during the last 5k of the race—skiers who were half her age. Then in 2009, Meyer won the 42k Skate at the Snow Mountain Ranch Stampede.

And then the unimaginable happened: while biking during the summer of 2009, Meyer had a bike accident, flew over her handlebars, and broke both of her arms. Never one to focus on pain or tragedy, Meyer chose instead to focus on her recovery.

“I’ve been on the path to recovery ever since that crash,” Meyer says. “But, this year, I think I’ll be back to my former self.”

Part of why Meyer’s healing process has been so protracted is because celiac disease can cause bone problems, meaning bones can be slow to heal. But in true Katie Meyer fashion, she persevered.

Meyer says her recovery “took so long, and by the time I healed, I had no upper body left. It was unbelievable, scary. Muscle was hanging off of me and didn’t do anything. The good thing was that

I’m Proof That…

Pushing the Envelope Leads to Adventure Nordic Skier Katie Meyer Presses On and Just Keeps Winning

By Katherine Maguid

Age: 56

Stomping Grounds: Crested Butte, CO

Tips on traveling with celiac disease: Meyer and her husband rent an apartment whenever they travel, particularly when going abroad. They purchase their groceries at the market and prepare their own meals. This way, Meyer not only maintains control over her diet, but she also gets to experience new cities more as a local than as a tourist.

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 45

aI’m Proof

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it motivated me, and I had to work on it. And now, I’m definitely better than I was before.”

Meyer is living out her dream: She and her husband are retired in Crested Butte, CO—a paradise for Nordic skiers—where all the trails start right in town. During winter, she simply heads out her door with her skis in hand, walks for five minutes, and then chooses from three different trailheads. A typical training day during ski season for Meyer includes skiing for a couple hours in the morning and possibly another hour in the afternoon, if she’s feeling ambitious. Meyer creates her own training regimen complete with technique drills for rhythm, balance, and timing.

“I just love the rhythm of skiing and the feeling of gliding,” Meyer says. “I love all of it. When I train, even when I’m going hard, there’s always a big smile on my face. That’s the best part.”

Meyer grew up alpine skiing and began Nordic skiing when she attended Dartmouth College, but after graduation, Meyer gave up Nordic ski-ing for nearly 20 years. When life finally brought Meyer and her husband, John, to Boulder, CO, she joined the Boulder Nordic Club, reigniting her love for Nordic skiing, and also began to compete.

“At first, I was horrible at it,” she says. “But I kept skiing until I became pretty decent at it. And that’s what was so appealing about Nordic skiing: There’s a bit of a learning curve, but it allows you to improve.”

Meyer didn’t hire a coach to improve her skills; rather, she took it upon herself to sign up for clin-ics, ski with people who had techniques and ad-vice they could offer her, watch videos, and study about what she could do to improve. In addition to her self-training, Meyer also focuses on weight-training to regain and further strengthen muscle in her upper body. “There are a lot of studies showing that 40–60 percent of your performance in Nordic skiing, depending on the terrain, depends on your upper body strength,” Meyer says. And Meyer is committed to improving her performance.

Last year, while still recovering, Meyer had three fourth-place finishes, and this year she has even higher goals. She aims to stand on the podium in Asiago, Italy, at the 2013 World Masters Cham-pionships this February. Knowing Katie Meyer and her pure determination and discipline, she definitely will have earned her place there.


a Dream Job

Why Antarctica?Being here feels like an extension of the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration—a 25-year time span at the turn of the nineteenth century when the geographic and scientific exploration of Antarctica was prolif-erate. That’s why we’re here: We are either research scientists or people managing the complex logistics of that research. I’m proud to be part of and continue one hundred-plus years of tradition.

But we live in comfort relative to the early explorers. We have a building in which we live and work, generators providing electricity and heat, as well as phones and Internet for communication. We have fresh food.

You’re essentially a farmer. Day-to-day, what do you do? At the South Pole, we grow without any resources from the natural world—without sunlight or heat, for example. We artificially create the appropriate environment in what’s called a food growth chamber.

The chamber is automated to provide the correct quantities of everything plants need to grow. A large part of my job is to monitor the system and troubleshoot issues that arise in the computer software, in one of the feeder PVC pipes, or maybe in a valve.

Then there is the quirk of growing here. Designing an environment for each plant to thrive in the chamber’s small space takes creativity. Also, while I don’t have pests or storms, I deal with disease.

meet Joselyn FenstermacherBy Meghan M. Hicks

The dream of working and living in Antarctica long occupied a top spot on Joselyn Fenstermacher’s bucket list. In 2007, the completion of grad school and an ugly break-up together provided the final impetus. She’s since chased that dream into perhaps the coldest continent’s most unique job: growing food for the 50 people at the South Pole Station this Antarctic winter. We spoke to her via satellite phone to find out about life in the freezer.

What’s in the chamber? How much food do you produce?Red bell peppers, kale, basil, melon, strawberries, cucumbers, bok choy, mizuna, radishes, carrots, tomatoes, amaranth, eggplant, lettuce, celery, calendula, scallions, corn, arugula… The average production rate for the last couple winters has been about 30 pounds per week. I’m at almost exactly that this winter. Each of the 50 people here eats something fresh about every other day.

I give my harvest to the galley, the chefs and food preparers, who incor-porate it into the meals they make for everyone at the station. They do a fantastic job of serving it raw, so we get to experience the food at its best. I also occasionally host what I call farmer’s market events at the growth chamber, where people can interact with and sample the plants.

It’s all grown indoors at the bottom of the world. What’s it like outside?

We don’t see the sun for months of the Antarctic winter. At this time of year, -100 degrees Fahrenheit is normal. During a storm, the wind chill might be -180.

I’m sorry, what? [Laughing] I mean, going outside for a minute in your indoor clothes won’t kill you! But don’t grab the metal door handle with your bare hand to go back in.

If I’m outside for a long time, I wear insulated boots, a couple base layers, insulated Carhartt overalls, a giant down parka, fleece gloves, bulky mittens, a balaclava, and a neck gaiter. I have poor circulation, so I use chemical warmers in my boots and mittens.

Overwintering here, I go for little walks and ski outings. That’s about it. It’s dark and cold.

What does overwintering mean?The South Pole’s winter tempera-tures are too cold for airplane opera-tions, which is how we and all of the South Pole Station’s gear comes and goes, so we can’t leave in the winter. Our seasons are opposite of North America, and winter is very long. Those of us overwintering arrive in February and depart in November. There’s a bi-annual switcheroo of winter and summer staff. A couple people do it, but you can imagine it might not be good for everyone to live here all year.

Speaking of psychology, the South Pole Station is a sardine can of 50 humans in the middle of nowhere. How does that go over, socially?We’re a reality show waiting to be filmed. We have break-ups, make-ups, hook-ups, costume parties, open-mic nights, live music, petty

theft, and rule-breaking. We have to pass psychological evaluations in order to overwinter, and the scene varies based upon the crowd. This is my second winter here at the South Pole and last year was far more socially dramatic than this one.

It’s not like you can order something online and have it delivered. Is there anything you wish you had?We ladies have joked about design-ing sports bras made with fuzzy nipple holders. And the bridges of our noses, our only exposed skin, sometimes get frostbitten. A gear company that invents nose thongs could make a killing here.

On the bottom of the Earth, what inspires you most?Well, two things. There’s a man here who was raised without a lot of vegetables. This is the first time he’s eaten bok choy, red bell peppers, and kale. He comes to our farmer’s market events and takes notes on the vegetables, says he’s going to start a garden when he goes home. The way he looks at food has changed, and he’s pretty much made my winter.

And, there’s the wilderness outside. The way the wind shapes the snow, the colors of the low sun in the clouds, the fact that there’s no one out there anywhere. It’s not compli-cated. It’s quiet. It’s Antarctica.

Age: 37 Stomping Grounds: Antarctica and Alpine, Texas Job: Winter operator of the South Pole Food Growth Chamber

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When it comes to the environment, scary

statistics rule the day. Rather than getting

overwhelmed or disheartened by pervasive

doomsday predictions, many women have

decided to persevere and dedicate their lives

to fi ghting for our planet. In the spirit of those

who came before them—Rachel Carson,

Mothering NatureMothering NatureBY CHRIS KASSAR

Due to greenhouse gases already emitted, global warming willdouble what we’ve already experienced.

Species are disappearing up to 1,000 times faster than is typical of the planet’s history.

Coal plants emit more than 30% of the United States’ annualcarbon dioxide emissions, making them a major contributorto global climate change.

One child dies every twenty seconds from diseases related to drinking dirty water.

CHAMPIONS OF THE EARTH

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 49

Curbing Climate Change

Frostpaw, the polar bear, wanders through the climate conference in Copenhagen. Heads turn as this giant, furry white beast passes leaders from all over the world who have

come here to hash out a new climate treaty. Frostpaw explains to the media that the plight of his species hangs in the balance unless humans make drastic changes to cut greenhouse gases.

The brains behind the bear suit belong to Kassie Siegel, Director of the Center for Biological Diversity’s (CBD) Climate Law Institute. “We are transforming the planet so profoundly it’s hard to comprehend,” says Siegel. For this reason, employing creative measures—like having threatened species descend on Copenhagen and Capitol Hill—is necessary. Siegel illustrates her point with alarming facts regarding animal extinctions, sea level rise, and extreme weather. “Huge social and economic changes will accompany the physical changes already underway; this is simply inevitable. The goal now is to limit the damage by reducing greenhouse pollution and guiding change in the most positive direction.”

Siegel first immersed herself in climate science while writing the petition to protect the polar bear under the Endangered Species Act.“I quickly realized that global warming threatened everything I care about and I decided to do something about it.”

A woman of definitive action, Siegel has most certainly succeeded in her mission. With the help of a strong team from CBD, Siegel developed a climate program that relies on innovative ideas, grassroots activism, and fierce use of the law to shift environmental policy. Their greatest success so far: compelling the Bush administration in 2008 to list the polar bear under the Endangered Species Act and to acknowledge, for the first time, the scientific connection between greenhouse gas emissions and species endangerment.

While Siegel and crew focus largely on creating change at the national level, Melanie Lenart, an environmental scientist and writer, seeks to reach the masses with words. “We all have a lot to learn when it comes to climate change,” admits Lenart, author of Life in the Hothouse: How a Living Planet Survives Climate Change and a professor at the University of Arizona.

In her research, Lenart discovered something that scared her and that she wanted to share. “Based on climates of the past, it is possible Earth could switch gears rather suddenly into a much warmer climate with much higher sea levels. I think the general public doesn’t get that there’s this threat of abrupt climate change. The scary part is we won’t know we’re at the threshold of abrupt change until after we’ve passed it,” she says. At this point, cities would experience an approximately 200-foot sea level rise, hordes of people would be displaced, and others would experience disruptions from floods, drought, and agricultural challenges.

Lenart’s work emphasizes the importance of our forests in combating and adapting to climate change. Forests play a huge role. “They remove about half the carbon dioxide that ends up in the air from burning coal, oil, and gas; plus, the remaining forests take up all of the CO2 released from the world’s wildfires, deforestation, and other types of land-use changes,” says Lenart. “This is an amazing contribution that we tend to take for granted.”

Both of these climate warriors admit that it is not always easy to take on one of the greatest challenges facing society. At times, Siegel struggles with the “acute awareness of so much pointless and preventable damage to people, plants, animals, and the planet,” and Lenart does get overwhelmed, sometimes feeling as if there’s

Mardy Murie, Rosalie Edge, and the like—

these unsung heroes have chosen to tackle

the most challenging issues of our time.

By using their voices and smarts, these

wild women of today are raising a ruckus,

creating change, and altering the way we

view our relationship with Mother Nature.

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From left: Kassie Siegel; Kassie Siegel dressed as Frostpaw, the endangered polar bear at the Copenhagen climate talks; Melanie Lenart walking in the desert foothills near her home.


nothing she can do to make a difference. For both, a return to nature always rejuvenates their efforts. Siegel finds respite in the desert because “no matter how difficult a day may be, getting outside never fails to make me feel better,” while Lenart prefers to slip into the forest to remind herself “why it all matters.”

“I’m a bit of an optimist by nature, so pretty soon I remember that it’s not over until it’s over,” says Lenart, who has recently shifted to focusing on solutions. “We still have a chance to keep warming in check.”

Building a Brighter Future Outside Congressman Hal Rogers’ office on Capitol Hill, police slap handcuffs on a well-dressed professional woman in her mid-fifties for refusing to leave until her representative committed to taking action. Teri Blanton, a fellow with Kentuckians for the Commonwealth, looks over her shoulder and grins ever so slightly. This is her third arrest in a lifetime dedicated to ending mountaintop removal and bringing economic and social justice to Appalachia.

“Continuing to use fossil fuels and destroying the oldest mountains on earth and poisoning the people who inhabit them has to stop,” says Blanton, a Kentucky native who witnessed startling landscape and water changes once mining gained ground. Mining destroyed thousands of miles of the Appalachian Mountains (the headwaters for the Eastern U.S.), and it has replaced 1.4 million acres of diverse forest with “blown up wastelands,” says Blanton. In doing so, big business has leached heavy metals into the air and water. “It’s all so short-sighted and unfair to those coming after us.”

Blanton entered into the fight for clean energy policies, conservation, and the use of renewable resources because she wanted something different for her children. “It’s hard not to internalize all the pain of the people, the devastated landscapes, and poisoned water that flows down our creeks. However, I find inspiration from watching people find their own voice and realizing they do have a say in their lives.”

Another woman driven to stop destruction in her own backyard is long-time activist Sandy Bahr, Director of the Sierra Club’s Grand Canyon Chapter. “I got involved in energy issues partly because of concerns about climate change, but also because the way we generate electricity and because the fuels we burn in our vehicles are terribly destructive.” Bahr experiences these consequences every day: The air she breathes in Phoenix fails to meet federal health standards; fish advisories exist because of high mercury in streams and lakes from coal power plants; haze shrouds iconic national parks like the Grand Canyon. “Finding a way to transition away from burning fossil fuels and promoting energy efficiency measures is critical to addressing climate change, conserving water, protecting public health, and much more.”

Doing this work for a quarter century can become frustrating because you “have to frequently fight the same fight over and over.” However, Bahr’s persistence has paid off and she’s made concrete strides in her work. Recently, the Sierra Club played a huge part in securing a one-million-acre mineral withdrawal barrier around the Grand Canyon and, with a strong coalition of diverse groups, helped to pass a renewable energy and energy efficiency standard in Arizona. “The best thing about my job is that I have the

opportunity to put my heart and soul into my work, and I get to work with people who are committed to protecting the planet and its diversity of life.”

Although historical leaders, including Wangari Maathai, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, and Rachel Carson inspire Bahr, she also gains incredible strength from women of today. “There are too many to name, and I see role models in the many women I work with on a daily basis. Many women are used to working as part of a group, sharing credit and responsibility, working to solve problems, and being persistent,” says Bahr. “All of these are critical to success and to being able to sustain conservation work.”

Enter Nada Culver, Senior Counsel for the Wilderness Society and one such role model who is the reigning maven on all things related to energy on our public lands. “Public lands belong to all of us, and many Americans don’t know what a treasure they own. I want them to get a chance to know and have a say before they are lost,” explains Culver, who empowers citizens to participate in governmental processes that will shape land-use decisions.

Culver’s main objective? Steer the federal government away from destructive and damaging oil and gas drilling and toward renewable energy that will “protect wilderness, wildlife, and other precious parts of our public lands.”

There is a sense of urgency with such work since the oil and gas industry currently hold leases for 38 million acres of public lands—


Teri Blanton getting arrested outside Congressmen Hal Rogers’ office for refusing to leave until he committed to taking action for the environment.

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WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 51

equal to the size of the entire state of Florida. “Energy development is a huge threat to wilderness, and the threat is not going away,” says Culver. “Putting more energy development on these lands is no small matter, but we actually have a chance right now to make sure it’s not spread thoughtlessly across the landscape. So, we can reshape both the energy we develop and how we develop it.”

Culver agrees with Bahr regarding the important role that women play in conservation today. “Women can be very effective warriors for our planet. Plus, you figure there has to be something to the fact that every culture’s earth deity is a goddess, right?”

Safeguarding Biodiversity It is 2:00 a.m., yet Amy Atwood, Senior Attorney for the Endangered Species Program with CBD, toils away at her desk—preparing yet another case to challenge government actions helping to drive species extinct. “The media doesn’t talk about it, but the Earth is in the midst of a mass extinction and the first to be caused by mankind,” says Atwood. Experts estimate that over 40 percent of all living species on Earth are at risk of extinction, a fact linked to and complicated by human population growth and climate change. “This is a crisis, one that anyone who cares about our children’s future should be alarmed about. I am.”

Atwood often works into the wee hours of the morning on gaining legal protection for species, fighting fossil fuel development, and raising the profile of these issues, because the fate of these species is intertwined with our own, she says. “Our existence depends on the web of life!”

Numerous wins indicate that her dedication over the past 14 years has been worthwhile. She’s halted the Keystone XL pipeline because of endangered species impacts and she’s helped negotiate a landmark settlement with the federal government that will result in federal protection for hundreds of endangered species. “I always remember that the truth is on our side, and sometimes the truth helps you win a battle, which gives a much-needed reprieve for animals and plants that would suffer had we not done something for them.”

Atwood grew up in Oregon during the spotted owl wars and she idolized environmental lawyers who fought through difficult political circumstances to protect old-growth forests. “They were like rock stars to me, and I wanted to grow up to be like them. They won the cases, and in the process, they won the issue. The work they did changed the way we value natural environments,” says Atwood.

Thanks to an edgy approach and dogged determination, Atwood has also achieved rock star status in the environmental world. As a result, she serves as an inspiration to women aspiring to dedicate their lives to conservation work. Her advice? “Plan a course for your life that has you living life to your greatest potential, and do whatever you can to get involved. Examine your own life choices and create new cultural values to model for others. Plan your family carefully. If you want to get into the environmental

profession, there are many options—choose your educational path to optimize the chances that you’ll meet and work with the people who do what you want to do. Have faith.”

One woman who has kept the faith longer than most is Fran Hunt, Director of Sierra Club’s Resilient Habitats Campaign. Over the course of her career, Hunt has testified before Congress over a dozen times, lobbied the White House, appeared on the Today show and Larry King Live, participated in public demonstrations, and walked around Washington, D.C. dressed up as a cow to draw attention to the impacts of grazing on habitat and wildlife.

Now, in her thirtieth year of conservation work, Hunt focuses on protecting the lands and waters that animals and plants need to survive, in an effort to preserve biodiversity in the face of climate change. “The health and well-being of all living creatures, people included, is dependent on the decisions we make, or refuse to make, now, to address our energy use and to help safeguard living systems,” says Hunt.

She gains strength from that fact that positive changes continue to happen slowly. For instance, she was part of the community effort that secured protection for 50 million acres of critical roadless lands and forced National Forest management to adopt new regulations that require the prioritization of climate change.

“ Conservation is a cause that has no end. There is no point at which we say, ‘Our work is finished.’” —RACHEL CARSON

Amy Atwood


“These forests will be critical safe havens as wildlife species move and adapt,” explains Hunt.

Despite small successes, Hunts feels the same sense of urgency that keeps Atwood working late into the night. “It feels like we are not making progress fast enough and that the health and diversity of the planet is being diminished faster than we can protect and restore it,” says Hunt. However, like so many, she derives solace from beautiful places and strength from those with whom she works. “I have long been inspired by the outdoors and the beauty and incredible diversity of life on the planet, it feels like a gift we have been given and must cherish and protect into the future.”

This long-time champion of the Earth has no plans to quit, but when her faith does waiver, she returns to nature and this quote from activist and writer Anne Lamott, which helps her persevere: “Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: You don’t give up.”

Water for All Thirty thousand gallons. Thirty days. Two people. One dog. Wendy Pabich was appalled when she opened her water bill. How could an expert in sustainable water use rack up such a huge number for such a small household? She wasn’t sure, but she knew it couldn’t continue. Pabich—a hydrologist, bio geochemist, and the President of Water Futures—set out to explore and modify her own use. She wrote Taking on Water: How One Water Expert Confronted Her Inner Hypocrite, Reduced Her Water Footprint (without Sacrificing a Toasty Shower), and Found Nirvana, the result of this very deliberate life choice to truly “swim the swim.”

“My book chronicles my journey to make changes in my own life and behavior in order to reduce my direct water use and my larger water footprint, and is an effort to show others that we each have the power within to be the change we want to see in the world,” says Pabich.

Empowering people to act is important because, while 75 percent of the planet is water, only 2.5 percent of that is fresh and, of that, less than 1 percent is available for consumption. “We are using these supplies more rapidly than they are being replenished and polluting them at unprecedented rates. As National Geographic has notably said, ‘All the water that will ever be is, right now.’ We need to get this right, for ourselves and for the planet,” she pleads.

Pabich works to find innovative solutions to the quest for sustainable water through her writing, teaching field courses, conducting research, and working as an environmental consultant. “I am inspired by the women around the world who walk untold hours each day to bring home water—sometimes not very clean—for their families. It reminds me of how privileged we are to have enough clean water. It means that I can spend my time learning, playing, exploring, writing, teaching, and doing whatever else I want to do.”

Heather Cooley, the Co-Director of the Pacific Institute’s Water Program, also derives motivation from those who have to work for their water—something most of us take for granted. At least 780

million people do not have access to clean drinking water. Two and a half billion people lack access to safe sanitation systems, and two to five million people—mainly children—die from preventable, water-related diseases every year. Cooley is working to reverse these trends by conducting research that informs policy and by seeking solutions that balance environmental, economic, and social justice concerns.

“Water is central to everything we do and is intricately connected to human and environmental health and economic development,” says Cooley. “We are reaching the limits of available supplies in many areas, and pollution poses a major threat to the quality of freshwater resources. Climate change will exacerbate these concerns.”

Cooley, however, remains optimistic since her work (in conjunction with colleagues at Pacific Institute) has already shifted the nature of the debate about water management. “We have been central to articulating a new vision of water management in the twenty-first century. This alternative vision—referred to as the “soft path”—looks to improve the overall productivity of water use rather than seeking endless sources of new supply.”

After 15 years, Cooley has no doubt that she’s on the right track. “The best part is the knowledge that I’m working on developing solutions to one of the greatest challenges facing us in the twenty-first century,” she says. “I believe we can solve this and am inspired to continue, because I know I’m working on an important issue that touches everyone and nearly everything on Earth.”


Pabich on a teaching expedition in Wrangell St. Elias NP, Alaska.

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 53

L I V I N G U N L E A S H E D

I’ve been a wanderer and explorer for as long as I can remember. As a child, I jumped in pools without knowing how to swim. I tried riding a bike solo on the fi rst attempt

and crashed hard onto the asphalt. I fell off horses, too. My family vacations were spent camping and taking long road trips in our wood-paneled station wagon. I haven’t always had the words to label it, but nomadic life suits my personality.

So, life in a van comes naturally to me.Many women tell me I’m doing something they’ve always

wanted to do. Th is is always followed by, “if only.” I dare every person to remove the “if only” from her dreams, go through with it and make them realities.

It’s all about making life choices that eventually bring you to your goal. It took me a while to even understand what I was seeking, but I knew there was something else out there for me. I saved a large percentage of my paycheck until I felt I was ready to leave the perceived security of my career and wander into the unknown.

my life in a van

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ALISON TURNER


“Be honest with yourself and dig deep about why you really want to live on the road. If you are looking to escape something, remember that your brain is still hitching a ride with you.”

LIVING UNLEASHED

Charon Henning, a.k.a. “Odd Angel,” lives full time in her vintage Airstream, taking her talents on the road. She’s a tattoo artist, sword swallower, illustrator, and sideshow performer. I captured this shot after a sword-swallowing performance in Ohio. OddAngel.com

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 55

After college, I labored toward career achievement and corporate advancement. I worked for years in an unfulfilling job so I could save money and eventually live my dreams—whatever they were. I was fortunate to have a six-figure income, but the job really wasn’t me, and the stress took its toll. I couldn’t relax on the few days of vacation I was allowed, never went to bed without my Blackberry, and was always on-call in case there was some sort of advertising “emergency.” Although it was just print advertising, I received pretty dramatic client reactions when something didn’t go as planned.

Climbing the corporate ladder in advertising had me in a suit and heels daily. From the outside, I thought it would be a glamorous job, but it wasn’t the creative haven I had envisioned. I knew the job didn’t define me, but I took it seriously and, when things went wrong, I took it personally. At the beginning, I was bursting with ideas and creative solutions, but I became hard and cynical as the years passed and didn’t care as much.

I decided enough was enough when the unhappy work day went from days to weeks to months, bringing me to the point where the money—the main reason I stayed for so long—couldn’t keep me there any longer. After working for 15 years in advertising, I quit my job at age 37 and hit the road to see where it would take me.

Now here I am, in my fourth year of living on the road. During year one, I traveled with a teardrop trailer; during years two and three, I lived out of a tent. Now, my home is a pop-top van.

When I started my journey, I had no idea where it would take me or what I wanted to do. I just drove around and blogged so family and friends would think I was having the time of my life.

But, in reality, I felt lost.I took this leap of faith when quitting my job, so I felt a

responsibility to do something amazing, even though I questioned what I was doing and even though it felt far from amazing. The voices of doubt thundered louder in my head with each passing month, and I tried quieting them at night with a cocktail or two—sometimes more. Whatever it took to quiet the voices of doubt.

It worked for a while—until it didn’t. After several months of letting fear control my thoughts, I decided

it was time to put down the cocktails and face the worry that I was not living an authentic, purposeful life as I had intended. I acted to change the course of my life, starting with eliminating alcohol. To pass the time I usually spent drinking alone during “happy hour,” I picked up my camera and started shooting. Though people told me there was something special in my work, believing it was a

After working for 15 years in advertising, I quit my job at age 37 and hit the road to see where it would take me.

challenge. Photography saved my life; it re-awoke my creative soul and gave me a new purpose.

In addition to my camera, it’s just me and my dog Max traveling in “Campy” with my bike “Lucy” on the back. I decide on my daily destinations as I go, and sometimes that means I will give friends only a day’s notice that I will be in town. Most of them are used to that about me. Not planning too strictly allows me to be available for unexpected opportunities and experiences. If I enjoy an area, I am able to stay longer—like I did in Burlington, Vermont, and also in Massachusetts when I made instant connections with some

Remember, you can’t always get what you want.You won’t have all the comforts of home. You might miss a shower, miss a meal, eat food you don’t normally eat, and do things outside of your routine. To enjoy this lifestyle, you need to be open to change and flexible in unpredicted situations.

You will start appreciating things you don’t think twice about today—like where to go to the restroom and shower while living out of a tent, van, or small RV. At times, I’m unable to shower for several days in a row and, when I finally find a shower, it seems luxurious.

Once, in a small Texas town, I went out to breakfast, which I rarely do. I ordered a meal and told the waiter I didn’t want meat. The meal arrived with bacon on top of it, so I reminded the waiter that I requested no meat. He answered, “That’s not meat, that’s bacon!” So, Max had a nice treat that day.

If you have to lie down to put on your pants, leave them at home.Nobody cares who designed your clothes or what you look like, except you. Function is the key. Before you pack an item, ask: Will it keep me warm? Will I have a meltdown if it gets ruined? Can I put on these pants standing up or do I have to suck in? Lay out all of the clothes you think you want to pack and take about a third of them with you. I confess: I am not a “glamper.” I pack two bags of clothes—one for summer and one for winter. I have a puffy vest that I wear almost daily, one sweater jacket, and the most comfortable pants, shorts, and flip flops. I wear the same basic outfit, and that works for me. Ditch the makeup, heels, dresses, and jewelry. You will be surprised by how much you don’t need.

Are you running away from something?Be honest with yourself and dig deep about why you really want to live on the road. If you are looking to escape something, remember that your brain is still hitching a ride with you. Driving to a new

destination doesn’t erase your worries. As much as you move to stay busy, there will be down time when you have to confront your inner self. Remember, all of my doubts crept in, and even all the driving in the world couldn’t reassure me that I was on the right path. I still had to deal with those thoughts; otherwise, they’d keep me constant, nagging company.

To discover your subconscious intentions and develop a real picture of why you want to live on the road, write down why you want to go and develop goals before you go. This list will keep you focused and remind you why you are on the journey. Is it to learn more about yourself? Visit a place you’ve always wanted to see? Climb the highest peak? Canoe unexplored waters? Hike lesser-known trails? Plus, it’ll ground you on days when you eventually do question your choice.

I didn’t question my decision daily, but sometimes I sat alone at night and wondered why I was on this journey. I wrote a list of 39 things I wanted to do during my 39th year, and I checked off most of them. Having written goals lightened my mood and gave me a challenge. In the following years, I listed things I’d accomplished that year, to reflect on achievements rather than plot goals.

You may head out and never experience any of these emotions—loneliness, doubt, discomfort, purposelessness. But, having a foundation and written intentions will still prove crucial.

Ditch the “honey do” list.Remember, this is your time. Don’t do something because it’s what others wish they could do or what others expect you to do. This is a commitment to yourself and what you want to achieve. Your goal doesn’t have to be big; it just has to be authentic to you.

At the beginning, I pressured myself to visit all the places people suggested and blog every day. I stressed about publishing a blog so much that I forgot to enjoy the ride. I finally realized that the blogging and writing was for me, and it became a more pleasurable experience.

ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT LIVING ON THE ROAD?I always encourage women who express an interest in my journey that they can live on the road, too. But it’s important to consider some of the realities of life on the road before moving out of your home and into a van, trailer, RV, or tent for full-time or part-time travel. Heck, even those of you with a sense of adventure but not able to quit your job right now should consider whether nomadic life is for you and hit the road ASAP—even if only for a week.

women on Cape Cod. One offered a parking space at her home, so I accepted and stayed several weeks. Each day is a surprise, and there are no expectations about what I will or won’t come across. I can’t imagine a better way to live.

My plan-less nature isn’t for everyone. Planning can be essential with this lifestyle, especially at campgrounds during peak seasons, like summertime in Yellowstone, for example. I didn’t plan my visit there in July and was lucky to secure three nights when I arrived because of a last-minute cancellation. It could have gone either way, and I was open to that.

LIVING UNLEASHED


Do these jeans make me look lonely? Women commonly ask if I get lonely. I explain that there are lonesome moments, but they aren’t frequent. Even though I am alone, I can choose to be around people anytime. Many times, I choose to travel to places that are less crowded—to get lost, in a sense. I stay busy by taking photographs, writing in my journal, driving, or hanging out with my dog, Max.

If you have a hard time being alone, this lifestyle might not be right for you. You will be alone to do things just for you—everyday. I see that as positive, but you need a plentiful supply of confidence and independence. Even if you are self-sufficient and happy solo, keep your friends and family close to feel connected when you need them or vice versa.

You can stay connected through social media, but there’s a chance you’ll feel left out when your friends back home post photos of the parties you missed or of their families. Remember to make the best out of this time and know that—although it may be uncomfortable—you are growing with each new experience.

It’s okay to feel lonely, tired, and unsure. You will experience all sorts of emotions. It’s good to feel them. Release them and move on.

But I’m broke...The cost of life on the road depends on how long you’re traveling, how far you drive, how much you eat, and where you sleep. It might seem on the surface that living out of a van is cheap, but you have to factor in parking fees, fuel expenses, and the price of little extras you’ll need while away from your comfortable home.

What to do if you hate living on the roadRemember, nothing is permanent. You can return to the security of the known at any time. Although I live in a van now, I kept my home in southern California, and it serves as a vacation rental until I’m ready to go back. Renting out my house helps tremendously with my finances, too. I travel by gut, but I don’t restrict myself to moving around often or staying put. If I ever want to live in one place for a long time, then I will settle down somewhere.

Life on the road is tough at first. Though I had major doubts and questioned my decision often, I wouldn’t change anything about the path I took and continue down now. If you want a nomadic lifestyle badly enough, then you will push through and have faith that the rewards will outweigh any initial discomfort. But, if you hate it, you can go home.

If you’re unsure, get a feel for it before you commit to this lifestyle in an extreme way. Just take a few trips to start. You don’t really need to quit your job, sell your home, and leave your family to make time for peace, quiet, and freedom from daily routine. Give yourself time to be alone and experience an adventure—whatever it may be. Whether you have a week or a month, you can rent an RV or a trailer and explore another lifestyle. Check out Airstream listings at airbnb.com.

Or, venture out of your comfort zone without leaving town—do something you’ve never done before. Eat at a new local restaurant, explore an unfamiliar neighborhood, paint, take a different route home, sign up for an outing with strangers, meet and show around a visitor, take a community class, and so on. Try anything that seems daunting at first. It sounds simple, but breaking up your routine gets you to experience that uneasy feeling that leads to a broadened perspective and growth. Feel it often enough, and you might reevaluate what’s really important to you in this short life.

Read more about Alison’s life unleashed at AlisonsLife.com and see the characters she’s met on the road at AlisonTurnerPhoto.com.

bingo!Shy by nature, I am surprised by how open I am with my camera in hand. The perspective through a lens has height-ened my natural curiosity and love of getting to know new people. Two years ago, I walked into a Bingo hall in Maine and found something that changed my course for several months. I realized that, once these players pass, so will the game. So, I needed to document these people who dedicate at least one day a week to coming and losing themselves in a game of hope and chance. I ended up creating a series of portraits of Bingo players across America. That series is just one part several I’m creating to document Americans and our way of life.

A dedicated bingo player in Fort Collins, Colorado..

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 57


used to send me out running after school,” she said. “Besides my family, that’s what makes me tick.”

So, in a sense, the theory that endurance athletes are running from something is semi-true. Sari is running from a bad mood. She skis, mountain bikes, and paddles her way to positivity. Not many understand that better than Ian. “He knows I get cranky when I don’t get exercise,” Sari said, while Ian diplomatically explained, “This lifestyle is part of why we’re together. Exercise and competition makes us happy.”

Ian’s glad to support Sari in her race-crazed and happy-making exercise habits, because it’s part of who she is and who they are as a couple: “I met Sari for the first time, not surprisingly, on a mountain bike ride,” Ian reminisced. “I was with a friend, and this girl passed me like I was standing still. Of course, it was Sari. She was kind enough to wait for both of us at the top. I was pretty smitten from that point on, because she was such a badass.”

He was doomed. “It wouldn’t matter what it was, I’d try to be as supportive as possible,” he said. “It just so happens that Sari’s thing is racing.”

Sari supports Ian in turn, and they agree their give-and-take system is solidly based on mutual understanding that each will get a turn. “We try to make it possible for the other partner to do what they’re psyched about,” Ian explains. “At times, we both get selfish and feel like we didn’t get our opportunity or get in enough exercise or have enough time with the family. Usually, when that happens, it’s communicated. Whoever felt like they got jipped gets compensated for pretty quickly.”

“I don’t sleep that much, to be perfectly honest,” said Ian Anderson, the spouse backing multisport phenom Sari Anderson, who has claimed a U.S. Ski Mountaineering

Championship, a couple Mountain Bike Marathon National Championship podium finishes, multiple Teva Mountain Games Ultimate Mountain Challenge medals, and the 2008 Xterra Winter World Championship—in addition to frequent (as in, seemingly every weekend) local and regional wins.

This winter is Sari’s fifth season racing skimo (ski mountaineering), and she’s considering The North Face 50 miler. With two kids and an almost full-time job, it seems almost unlikely that she’d do well. But she always does.

Aside from her natural competitive edge and excellent overall fitness, Sari’s ability to race often and race well comes thanks to her ironclad support system.

When I talked to the couple, Sari had just come in from an evening run, and Ian had put their two kids—Axel, 2, and Juniper, 5—to bed. She was scarfing dinner while he set up the video call. He’d even lined up the interview, creating a Google calendar event for the three of us.

“My biggest supporter is Ian,” Sari said. “Ian and the Chariot.”Sari works almost full-time, and Ian also has a full but relatively

flexible work schedule. Still, they make time for what they love—training and racing.

The emotional and mental stability she gets from exercise is what drives Sari to train so hard and get so competitive. “That time alone is my therapy. It always has been. It’s why my mom

Part one of a two-part series about women who excel in their personal, professional, and outdoor passions partly due to help from their gallant and

understanding supporters

BY JENNIFER C. OLSON

“I met Sari for the first time, not surprisingly, on a mountain bike ride. I was with a friend, and this girl passed me like I was standing still. Of course, it was Sari.”

HER turn

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 59

Despite there being only so many hours in a day, and without cloning themselves, some women manage to do it all—compete at the pro level, maintain full-time jobs,

love on their families, care for their homes, and stay sane.

We queried a few of these incredible characters for their secrets and saw a common theme: These women, not surprisingly, say that organization is key; but most crucial to making it all happen are the supportive people in their lives.

This is a toast to those über advocates and behind-the-scenes doers who back female superstars, empowering and enabling them to thrive

during what each independently labeled “her time.”

The two gals you’ll read about today say it’s their turn to pursue adventure, and they’re making the most of it.

In addition to working and raising children, they almost obsessively feed their outdoor passions, chasing their dreams to faraway places.

We explore how they manage their time, maintain their relationships, and stay well while juggling the logistics of their zealous undertakings.

If Ian’s unable to be with the kids while Sari is out, her parents who live down the street can watch them. Having her folks on the same street is nice in winter, Sari said, so she can do workouts in the daylight. She does swaps with other moms, and they ride with other couples that also have kids. If both Sari and Ian are racing, someone in their circle of race buddies will take turns kid-sitting, too.

Sometimes, Sari just takes the kids with her. “I do some of my early morning training, pushing and pulling the kids in the Chariot,” she said. “When Ian gets home, he gets time with the kids, and I get to go out by myself. On weekends, we go together.”

Okay, so the little ones are mostly covered. But, how does she squeeze in everything else she needs to do?

“In trying to do all we’d like to get done, we get creative,” Sari said, offering examples. “I’ll take Juniper horseback riding on a hill so I can get in hill repeats. If we’re driving for an activity reasonably close to home, the other gets to ride their bike one way.” If they go rafting with the family, Sari gets to ride her bike home from the river.

Plus, they’re expert planners. Sari and Ian think ahead and build their calendar around key races, taking turns participating in their favorite events, since Ian races at an elite level, too. They make sure to communicate early and often. “If I hear about a race I want to do, I let Sari know ASAP,” Ian said.

Though she sometimes thinks about going fully pro, Sari hasn’t made the move yet. There’s not much sponsorship money available in the sports she loves, which are lesser-known and require a lot

“I met Sari for the first time, not surprisingly, on a mountain bike ride. I was with a friend, and this girl passed me like I was standing still. Of course, it was Sari.”

Sari accepts a water bottle from Axel while Ian stands ready to hand off a gel during an endurance race last summer.


of expensive gear—lightweight ski setups and bikes, mainly. Still, her race results are on-par with pros and she immensely enjoys competition. “I don’t stress about it as much as some people do,” Sari said. “I do so many races that, if one doesn’t go well, there’s always next weekend.”

Besides, she has to work just to support her race habits. Even with the prize money Sari wins, racing costs them money. But, they’re willing to pay the price of doing what they love.

In the rare cases when she doesn’t feel like training, Ian nudges her. “He tells other people to urge me to do it. It’s just a matter of knowing your partner,” Sari explained, adding that she thinks they balance life and training well.

Sari does have limits, though. “Sari used to do quite a few adventure races, which was hard for everybody,” Ian admitted. Last year’s Adventure Racing World Championships in Tasmania, a 10-day race down under, was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Sari got sick there and longed to be home with her family, so they’re sticking with single-day races for now. “If Sari had told us she was going to do a month-long adventure race this summer, it might not make us happy,” Ian said.

Also recently, they discovered that camping with the kids during a race weekend is just too much. “We haven’t camped with them enough for Axel in particular to be comfortable with it,” Ian said.

One thing the kids are comfortable with: the race scene. “They’ve grown up attending races, and it’s taught them to have an active lifestyle and be healthy,” Sari says, explaining that the kids at the regional races are their friends. “They go out and play, and they get upset when they can’t attend one of our races,” Sari said. “Soon enough, the kids will have their time, and I can just look forward to supporting them.”

For now, it’s Sari’s time, and she’s shining brightly.

Rachelle Croft has a husband who frequently travels to faraway places plus three children she adores, but she recently fell in love again—with adventure. She put her

outdoor pursuits on hold when her first child came along but fed her adventurous nature this year and discovered just how many people are willing to chip in toward her dreams.

Last March, Rachelle competed in The Rallye Aïche des Gazelles—a nine-day, all-female competition in which teams of two race off-road vehicles across the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

The opportunity arose at a car show in Las Vegas. “My husband Clay and I went to make contacts for our reality show, Expedition Overland, and I met my teammate Julie,” Rachelle says about the moment that rekindled and nourished her passion for overlanding, which is essentially off-road driving.

The women each knew about the Rallye and started talking, hypothetically, about racing it together. “I told her I’d love to drive,” Rachelle says, “and Julie said she would navigate. She needed to improve anyway.”

Some of the others overheard and offered their support. “One guy said he’d get us a car,” Rachelle remembers, excitement in her voice. “I thought: This might actually happen!” And that’s when she realized she needed to do it. She wanted to do it, and the overlanding community’s sudden support allowed to her feel like it could work.

Though Clay travels often to drive in exotic places and shoot Expedition Overland (xoverland.com) episodes, the Rallye was the first thing Rachelle got to do on her own since having children. “No one was very surprised,” she says, explaining she’s been labeled an outdoorsy gal since before she and Clay became high school

Left to right: Rachelle navigates through the Sahara Desert. She wants to show her boys what it means to live well and take risks.

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 61

sweethearts. “I’ve been driving ever since I can remember, but I never thought it’d more than a hobby.”

It’s funny how life works out. The overlanding show is now Rachelle’s bread and butter, and much of their family free time is spent off-roading.

About a year ago, the couple launched Expedition Overland, a reality-based web series that follows Clay plus five of his friends and their outfitted vehicles on journeys all over the world. They’ve filmed five episodes so far, with Clay traveling to far-off places and Rachelle handling the backend of the business while at home with their kids.

Clay works as a cinematographer and, after the recent economic crash, sought steady, more reliable projects. “We wanted to create our own work,” Rachelle says. “We wanted to produce our own show about overlanding, something funny but authentic.” They were tired of staged reality TV and aimed to film a high-quality show with no drama. So the series portrays the desire for exploration, which leads to entertaining adventures and mishaps, also lending personal insights into struggles and successes through teamwork, problem solving, and endurance. “It depicts people effectively communicating, not just bickering,” Rachelle says, “and getting through challenges in a healthy way.”

Speaking of healthy relationships, Rachelle and Clay seem to have one, as proven by his unending encouragement and support. He rallied their three boys and encouraged them to help out, too, when Rachelle was extra busy before the race. “That’s the girl I fell in love with, this adventurous girl,” Clay says. That sense of adventure is also what caused trouble at the beginning of their marriage, though.

Rachelle and Clay were engaged when she was 19, and children weren’t part of their short-term plan. “We wanted to wait five years, go travel the world,” says Rachelle, who was actually pregnant by 21. She resented staying home with the baby, working behind the scenes and watching Clay live his dreams. “We had some pretty good power struggles when I was younger,” she says. “I threw myself little pity parties. I wanted to be the one out there, up front.”

They’re more of a team now, especially since they work and travel together, and he helped make going to Rallye possible for Rachelle. “My husband is always behind me 100 percent,” she says, explaining that their family and extended network of friends also support them and back their wild adventures. “I’ve never been about the one-woman or superwoman show. I need community and all the help we can get.”

When Rachelle left for the Rallye last March, her first grader cried. Cyrus was afraid she’d get lost in the desert, but he knew that his mom’s trip was pretty cool. When he told his teacher that she was in Morocco, the teacher asked, “For what?” Cyrus replied, “For a race.” Rachelle questions whether the teacher believed him, and Cyrus shakes his head, “He didn’t.”

Perhaps that’s because Rachelle normally keeps busy anyway, so the addition of a multi-week race seemed a little much. Family comes first—well, after God—then their business, and extracurricular activities like the Rallye AÏche des Gazelles come last. Admittedly, Rachelle did put a few things on hold in order to participate. She cancelled her enrollment in a class because race prep was so time-

and energy-consuming, but she also scaled back her social life to make time for planning and coordinating her three week-long trip. “Relationships with my girlfriends took a backseat,” she confesses. “Luckily, they understood.”

So, with the responsibility of a family and running a business, Rachelle must have trouble deciding which extracurriculars make the cut. “If I don’t have peace, I don’t do it,” Rachelle explains, simply. “I can usually tell when I’m forcing or pushing too hard, and that’s when I need to ask the hard questions.”

Day-to-day prioritizing is also simple, but it didn’t used to be. “I try to make sure my husband and kids feel like they’re a priority, then I tend to other things.”

At first, Rachelle put a lot of pressure on herself to keep a perfectly clean house, manage the backend of their business, and raise healthy, active kids. “It drove me crazy, being a control freak,” she recalls. “One day I was wiping the counter and my youngest asked me to do a puzzle with him. My usual response was ‘no,’ but it hit me that it’d literally take three minutes to help him and this was the hundredth time I’d wiped the counter that day.”

Her own parents and Clay’s are very happy to help, too. Rachelle’s folks in Missoula and Clay’s parents in Billings bookend their homebase in Bozeman, Montana, which means the grandparents are close enough to take care of the kids while Rachelle and Clay are on long trips.

Rachelle actually has no major trips planned for the near future. In fact, her next big race won’t be until 2014, but the fire the Rallye reignited in her is still burning. “I had grown complacent and had buried that drive,” she says. “I learned it is so good to do things you don’t know how to do, to be scared, and to take risks. I want my sons to grow up with a mom who strives to live.”

Rachelle thinks her time will come again later. “Right now, this is where I’m at. Everybody has their turns.”

And, when a race opportunity does crop up, Rachelle will have a team of people—her children, husband, parents, and friends—stepping up to lend their unconditional support. “I would never expect anyone to take over my responsibilities for me to pursue an adventure,” Rachelle explains. “However, if they want to, I will take all the help I can get!”

The Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles, in its 23rd year, is an all-female overlanding race

that lasts nine days. Teams of two in off-road vehicles make their way through

the Sahara Desert with only a compass, outdated maps, and a ruler. The Rallye

Aïcha des Gazelles adheres to strict environmental guidelines and focuses on humanitarian efforts through its partner

non-profit, the Heart of Gazelles.

rallyeaichadesgazelles.com

to be continued

62 WAM • WINTER | 2011 62 WAM • WINTER | 2011 mas

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Katie Harris makes her way across Polecat Creek on an afternoon ski through the mountain meadows of Wyo-ming, just two miles south of Yellowstone National Park. “We skied out to Huckleberry Hot Springs that day,” says photographer Camrin Dengel, who contributes weekly on womensadventuremagazine.com.

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Once used for practical travel in snowy conditions, snowshoes have seen many changes since the original platforms made from animal skins and wood. Today you can fi nd models for any kind of on-snow adventure, from beefy backcountry to lightweight running styles.

Why try a 5k snowshoe race?In winter, snowshoeing gets you out in the fresh air and brings you to beautiful places without the risk of injury that winter running does. Atlas Snowshoe team member, Lindsay Krause, began snowshoeing in 2003 as an alternative to winter running. As she puts it, “I was looking for something new, a new challenge to do in the winter months.”

According to Snowsports Industries America (SIA), you burn 45 percent more calories snowshoeing than you would running at the same pace on similar terrain. Snow conditions, intensity (pace), terrain, and body size can affect the rate of calories burned. It works the cardiovascular system without the typical pounding that you get from road running.

First Timer TipsIf you can walk, you can snowshoe. Before strapping on a pair of shoes and heading out for a run, spend some time walking in your snowshoes, especially on hills Since you use a wider stance while running in snowshoes, your hip fl exors get more of a workout and little-known muscles (especially in the ankles) will work hard to keep you balanced. “I remember going out and hiking in mine fi rst,” said Lindsay. “If you haven’t spent much time trail running, then I’d really recommend going for a few walks in your shoes.”

To begin, practice lifting straight up as you walk, so you don’t drag the tips of the snowshoes. This will help with the transition from walking to running. As you feel more comfortable on your snowshoes, begin to take a few natural as possible strides on fl at terrain. Knocking your ankles is common in the beginning but, with some practice, it will occur less often.

If you need to back up for some reason, try turning around in a small circle instead. Backing up on snowshoes is a diffi cult task.

JILLI BETH

AN

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Equipment Roll CallSnowshoesSnowshoes come in a variety of models for different types of activity. Run/race snowshoes are lighter by a few pounds than other models and are typically 21–25 inches long to help maintain the most natural running gait possible. Demo days and race-day events are excellent opportunities to try out vari-ous brands and models before you commit to buying a pair.

If you plan to strap on your snowshoes a few times a week or race a series, you might want to remove the straps and have a pair of running shoes bolted to the platforms. Outdoor shops can help you with the process. If you are feeling adventurous, fi nd instructions online to mount them on your own. “I love having my shoes mounted,” said Lindsay. “I never have to worry about the straps coming loose during the race.”

Layered ClothingThink of what you might wear on a typical run during winter and go from there. Running tights plus a performance base layer on top is a common combo. Lindsay never forgets a vest to keep her backside dry. “I always wear a waterproof jacket or vest because of all the snow that gets kicked up as I run.” Wool running socks, running shoes, and gaiters are also key.

Most body heat escapes from the head, so a wicking winter hat is a good idea. Lindsay also suggests gloves for those times when you might have to put your hand down for balance or when you fall. Sunglasses are also recommended for the intense sunlight created by rays bouncing off the snow.

As you heat up, you will want to shed layers. “Dress for less,” suggested Lindsay. “You may be a bit cold in the beginning of the race, but you will heat up quickly.”

For a list of great trails in the U.S., head to

snowshoes.com.

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 65

mSnowshoe Racing

Remember to:• Check your weather report

when heading out to train or race. You will want to be pre-pared for changing conditions.

• Consider altitude, hydration, and nutrition when playing in a winter wonderland. When you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. The dry air of winter will cause dehydration sooner than most people real-ize. Carrying a gel, bar, or some kind of food is also a good idea, since snowshoeing burns more calories than typical running.

• Warm up. If you aren’t used to exerting yourself at higher altitudes, get in an efficient warmup before your main workout or race. This will get your muscles firing and help you establish a regular breath-ing pattern.

Running downhill You will want to flex your knees and put your weight on the heels of your snowshoes when head-ing downhill, especially if it’s really steep. For faster descents, try running downhill by leaning back into your heels and pulling up your toes slightly with long, quick strides. “Lean back and feel like you are skiing on your heels with each stride,” said XTERRA Pro and Atlas Snowshoe member Sara Tarkington Schuler. “Leaning too far forward may lead to a face plant and send you sliding on your belly. I know because I’ve pulled off this spectacular-looking move myself.”

Running uphill Lean forward on the uphill, driving both your legs and arms up the hill. Plant the toes of your snowshoe into the snow with each step.

Sometimes, it’s easier to hike up a hill than run it. “But don’t get dis-couraged by that, because you may end up going faster and expending less energy,” noted Lindsay.

Tackling off-camber terrain Uphill and downhill terrain will of-ten be a bit off-camber. “In the case of off-camber terrain, I lean into the mountain like you do when skiing,” said Lindsay.

Running in singletrack Courses may take you away from the packed-down groomed snow. “There will be roots and rocks underneath that you can’t see. Make sure to keep your head up for possibly visible obstacles on singletrack,” Lindsay advises. If there are previous tracks, following those tracks can be helpful.

Training TipsTraining time should be spent on and off snowshoes. “The best workout with snowshoes on would be to do some race simulation over varied terrain,” said Lindsay. “Most races include a little singletrack as well as groomed trails, so it is important to have a feel for both. Groomed trails are pretty straight-forward, but singletrack can be a little unstable. An example of a good work-out is a run with two minutes on (race pace) and two minutes off (easy jog) for 40–60 minutes. I do this on trails at resorts, in national forest, or at XC ski trails. A 10k snowshoe race takes nearly 50 percent more time than a road or trail 10k, so be prepared for a tough effort. Sixty minutes can be a win-ning time in a snowshoe race.” [Editor’s note: Trail protocol states that you should not snowshoe on the groomed areas designated for Nordic skiing.]

When not putting in the miles on snowshoes, road running is the best way to train for snowshoe races. For a 5k snowshoe race, train like a 5k running race, incorporating hill repeats and longer runs into your plan.

Weightlifting is also beneficial. Focus on lunges, squats, and calf raises for the lower body. For the upper body, work in pull-ups, the bench press, and curls.

No access to snow or elevation? Beach running, using a stair climber (or climbing actual stairs), and running on a treadmill set on an incline can all help you prepare. Sara suggests this workout: Warm up on a treadmill for 15 0minutes; go to the Stairmaster and do 3 sets of 5 minutes hard, 2 min-utes easy; get back on the treadmill, crank up the incline, and do 15 minutes of running; finish with a cool down.

Race Day TipsStow extra clothes and boots for after the race. Access to a car might not be possible based on the course. In most cases, a Nordic center, warming hut, or a locker will be available to store a bag with extra clothing.

Position yourself correctly on the start line. Courses can often be narrow or even start with singletrack. So, by beginning in a place relative to others that makes sense for your goals, you can avoid being trampled by those going for the podium spots and not get stuck behind those who are walking the course.

Pass politely. Passing someone during a race is like passing someone in a running race. Just call out, “on your left” before you pass by.

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hit your goal time or if your per-mile pace is slower than your road or trail running pace. Because snow conditions vary and thanks to the extra weight of snowshoes, one can typically expect a per-mile pace that is two to five minutes slower.

Not quite ready to run the whole distance? Try walking the hills and run-ning the flatter surfaces.

Carry a hand-held bottle or wear a hydration belt. Most races will have some form of hydration at the start and finish, but you might not find aid stations on course.

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If at first you don’t succeed … Be prepared to fall, as it will happen eventually. The easiest way to get up is to first roll onto your front side. Pick one knee up and then push your-self into a kneeling position. Stand up slowly, placing your snowshoes on the ground as flat as you can, one at a time. If the terrain is too steep, sometimes shuffling or sliding over to the side of the trail where the snow is less packed makes it easier.

Skills to Master

Be in the Know Become a member of the United States Snowshoe Association to get training tips, and be eligible to try out for the annual U.S. National Snow-shoe Championships. Yearly member-ship is $15. snowshoeracing.com


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Clumps of new-fallen snow slough o� tree branches as you slide up the trail. The swish of your skins and the subtle crunch of the weighted snow underfoot are the only sounds in the forest. You stop to catch your breath and a drop of sweat falls from the tip of your chilled nose. Silence. You gaze up at the untouched slopes on both sides of the valley. Steep trees, open glades, and alpine bowls. Sound like a dream? It can be a reality. While

ski resorts continue to raise lift ticket prices and slopes become more crowded, backcountry skiing and snowboarding opens up a new realm for exploration. This peaceful world of powder can be yours to play in, too.

Get educated The American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education’s website (avtraining.org) is a great resource. You can supplement with the recently updated classic, Snow Sense by Jill Fredston and Doug Fesler. And fi nding an experienced partner who you can learn from helps a lot.

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Safely Explore the Bountiful Backcountry

Keeping WarmWhen touring in the backcountry, hypothermia is a major concern. Without a lodge or lift house to duck into and warm in, you have to take extra care to keep your body temperature up. Ingrid Backstrom explains how she stays warm.

• Layer strategically. Wool-blend, wicking baselayers will keep you warm and dry. Shell pants and hooded jackets that are breathable, waterproof, and have good vents let you easily adjust your temperature.

• Open your vents while climbing to prevent overheating. Sweating too much and getting wet can quickly be-come serious.

• Have a puffy down layer easily accessible. Whenever you stop to rest or refuel, throw on this insulating layer beneath your shell to keep in all that hard-earned heat.

• An extra pair of warm mittens in your pack will make you smile when your hands get chilly.

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mBC Touring

WeatherContinually observing weather changes is key. Online mountain weather forecasts and regional avalanche reports are great sources for weather analyses. Avalanche danger is highest during and immediately after storms, and a good rule of thumb is to wait at least 24 hours after a storm before heading into the backcountry. But remember that a blue bird day doesn’t necessarily indicate stable snow conditions.

High winds can also increase danger as they trans-port snow onto leeward slopes and load avalanche starting zones. Wind speed and direction since the last storm will help you determine which aspects have been loaded.

NutritionStaying well-fueled is critical to keeping up your energy. Snack every 15–30 minutes while skin-ning. High calorie foods that don’t get too stiff in cold temps are good choices. Ingrid goes for nuts, cheese, and peanut butter sandwiches.

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Choosing Your Terrain“When in doubt, terrain is your friend,” says Jill Fredston, avalanche expert and author. “Knowing nothing at all about snow conditions or avalanches, you can still minimize or completely eliminate your hazards if you just control your terrain.” Jill shares more guidelines for choosing the right terrain.

• Know what’s around you. What slope angle am I on? Are there steep slopes above me that could slide? Are there cliffs below me I could go over if I slip or fall?

• Evaluate terrain going up and down. We tend to pay more at-tention to our line of ascent, since it takes more time and effort. Pay equal heed to whatever you plan to descend.

• Navigate micro-terrain features. Going ten feet to the left or right can make a big difference. Avoid convex rolls, where low-angle terrain drops abruptly onto steeper slopes, areas of wind-loaded snow, and isolated trees or rocks that could act as trig-ger points for an avalanche.

• Choose areas with lots of terrain options and slope angles. If condi-tions aren’t what you expect, you can always dial back the diffi culty.

• Know the difference between hazard and risk. Hazard is what the mountains present us with: weather, avalanches, rockfall. Risk is hazard with consequences. Ask yourself, “What will happen to me?”

• Watch out for thin snow. Especially early and late in the season, shallow snow cover can hide rocks, trees, and stumps that you could snag on. If you can see anything poking up out of the snow, there is likely more hidden underneath and you should steer clear.

Breaking TrailBreaking trail can be exhausting especially in new, unconsolidated snow. Here are a few tips on skinning from professional extreme skier Ingrid Backstrom to help save your legs for more turns.

• Practice good posture. Relax your body, stand up straight, and tuck your butt under-neath you. Keep your arms close to your sides and use your core to keep everything tight.

• Glide, don’t step. Maintain contact with the snow and only lift your leg as much as you need to while sliding it forward.

• Find a happy medium between too steep and too many switchbacks. If you go straight up the slope you may slip backwards or burn yourself out. Too shallow of a grade and you’ll be switchbacking all day without gaining much elevation.

Hazard recognition“If you don’t know, don’t go,” Ingrid says. “If you didn’t scout it beyond a shadow of a doubt, or you didn’t climb up what you’re planning to ski down then don’t just drop blindly into something.”

HydrationHydration can be diffi cult in the cold. Fill your bottles with warm water in the morning to make it go down easier in the fi eld. Leave the bladder home. Hoses and mouthpieces freeze easily in winter temperatures, even with insulating sheaths.

“When in doubt, terrain is your friend.”

—Jill Fredston, avalanche expert and author.

Whiteout NavigationStaying in the trees is a safe bet in a whiteout. If you get caught in a storm above treeline and you are losing visibility, turn around and follow your tracks back down before they get erased.

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See page 74 for our ski, snowboard, and snow-shoe gear recommenda-tions. Plus, discover the backcountry accessories that made our short list!


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Spring won’t suck. You won’t feel like you’re starting over come spring. Make this year different and cruise into spring stronger than ever. “Continue fi tness as a year-long process,” says Michelle Grainger, a past pro mountain biker and present Elite Level 1 USAC Cycling Coach and personal trainer with more than 30 years of experience. “If you don’t use it, you lose it. So keep it up. What you do in winter supports all you love to do in spring and summer.”

Remain sane. Getting out provides a space to work through problems, take a break from worries, and focus on yourself. Make this a priority. “Exercise is part of my self-care,” says Sara Tarkington, the 2012 USA National Snowshoe Champion, a top Xterra athlete, and a social worker. “I need a way to release after a long day. I love the beauty of the distinct seasons we have in Colorado and don’t like enjoying them from a sitting position.”

Your body will thank you … and so will your friends and family. Stay strong and lean, improve heart health, avoid injury, and stave off the crud during cold and fl u season—just by getting your blood pumping every day. “I always remind myself how much better I feel when I’ve exercised and how much better of a mother and wife I am,” says Sari Anderson, a mother of two and champion endurance mountain biker, runner, and skier, who won the 2012 U.S. Ski Mountaineering Championships. (Read all about Sari and her support system on page 58.)

Time is short. While you may be able to ride or run all year in many places, the time for snowy, icy sports is limited—so don’t squander it. “The season is short, so get out there,” says Sari. “My sport changes for the winter and skimo [ski mountain-eering] is something that I cannot do in the summer. This motivates me to get out often as I can.”

Save cash. Who needs P90X or an expensive gym membership? Not you. Use the season like you would a personal trainer, to build your base and increase strength. “Think of the snow as nature’s greatest strength training tool,” says Lindsay Krause, an integral member of the Salomon Trail Running Team and Atlas Snowshoe Team, mother, and physical therapist. “Getting outdoors helps you get through winter mentally, plus it physically brings you into spring in better shape than you can imagine.”

Bacon. Though it’s likely not a major motivation, being able to eat more of your favorite foods is a bonus. “It’s not even an option to sit out the winter,” says Majka Burhardt, pro-climber, author, and AMGA Certifi ed Rock Guide. “Winter is a third of my life, a third of my sport season, and I get to eat way more bacon then, too.”

Days grow short. Mercury plummets. Roads ice over. As Jack Frost starts nipping at your nose, you may fi nd that he also eats away at your motivation to get outside and play. You aren’t alone. Gallup polls show that, in winter, there is a steady decline in the fre-quency of exercise among Americans—a decline that becomes even more punctuated as the years pass by.

This is a shame. Winter is a wondrous season full of beauty, peace, and boundless opportunities to explore new territory, build up strength, and fi nd a renewed sense of appreciation for adventure … if only you can rally to get out the door and discover it.

Embrace Winter: Spring Up Strong, Sane, and Sassy

Don’t let winter’s wily ways undermine all your hard work toward your athletic goals. Stay sane, toned, and injury-free by keeping that body in motion with this advice from the most rockin’ athletes around. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, climber, or hiker—do it for your mind, body, and spirit. You’ll thank yourself come spring. And you might even enjoy it.

Why Brave the Cold and Wet or Icy Weather?

Majka Burhardt stays strong year-round.

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embrace your adventurous side!

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fischersports.com

But How Do I Stay Safe and Motivated?Play Mind Games: Tricks to Keep Ya Going

Set goals. You don’t have to be a world-record holder or an elite athlete to achieve great things. Creating benchmarks is a great way to stay enthused. Just be sure to keep them realistic. “To stay inspired in winter, I grab reasonable goals and then I can always add to them,” says Majka.

Find a partner or coach. Being accountable to someone else is “a good way to keep things fresh if you are having a hard time getting out the door,” says Morgan Arritola, a former Olym-pian in cross country skiing, who just fi nished an extremely successful inaugural season in mountain running during which she claimed the National Championship.

Embrace it! Look at the winter like Sari does: “One more season to race, stay fi t, and have fun outdoors!”

Plan a reality check. Register for an event, and you’ll keep pushing. “Having a mental work-out plan for the month and signing up for a snowshoe race always gets me out the door,” says Lindsay.

Look forward to telling the story. “When it’s gnarly out and you want to come in, think about what a great story it will be if you stay out,” advises Sara.

Make it a game. Michelle enjoys the feeling of knowing that most folks aren’t out on the worst days. “I always feel really good getting out then because I realize that it takes motivation to do it. I make it a game of dedication and determination.”

Tips to Keep You MovingStoke the Fire: Tips to Beat the Winter Blahs

Get out the door. “Just try for ten minutes, and if you aren’t having fun then be done,” says Sara. “Usually after 10, you are fi ne and forget about never wanting to go outside.”

Ignore the weatherman. Just go! Lindsay doesn’t check the temp or watch the weather. “It can deter me from getting outdoors,” she says. Dress smart, layer up, and head out.

Mix it up. If you’re bored, try a new sport like ice climbing or Nordic skiing. On super frigid days, hit the gym or get creative at home. “When it’s cold and nasty out, fi gure out a way to enjoy it, not dread it,” suggests Morgan.

Disguise your exercise. “Get outside, no matter the conditions, every day. Even if just to shovel, walk the dog, or get your fi rewood,” says Majka. Working out can be fun, too, if you see it as a chance to play. “I love to go sledding,” says Sari. “A cheap plastic sled can provide a lot of laughs and plenty of exercise hiking back up the hill.”

Know thy gear. “Don’t test your layering system or fi gure out how to adjust your helmet in sub-zero temps on a windy day,” says Majka. Learn the ins and outs of your equipment at home. Practice layering correctly so you don’t sweat or freeze. “Having good systems lets you stay out longer,” she says.

Hydrate. It’s easy to forget this one when it’s nuk-ing outside and you can’t feel your toes. But, you need water even when it’s freezing. Make it more appealing by imbibing warm liquids. Morgan trains with an insulated drink belt full of hot fl uids; Sari switches out post-workout chocolate milk for hot chocolate.

Feel the burn. Sara suggests a longer warm up so you stay injury-free. To stay out on rough days, she says, “I go a little faster if I feel cold. You can trick yourself into doing intervals easily this way.”

Use common sense. Listen to your body and mind and be smart about pushing it in winter. Rest when you need to, and stay inside and do something creative on the totally awful (and dangerous) days. Remember, the point is to have fun and arrive to spring healthy and stronger than you were before, so use your noggin!

“To get out each day is to live in the moment and appreciate that we can. Keeping fi t means staying fi t.”—Michelle Grainger

Majka Burhardt stays strong year-round.

Morgan Arritola asks her friends to keep her accountable.

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Venture Euphoria Silverton, Colorado’s Venture Snowboards reintroduced a new and improved Euphoria after it spent two years off the market and in development. Full rocker, reverse sidecut, and swallowtail make this look like Michael J. Fox’s hoverboard from Back to the Future II. And, true to its unusual form and medium stiffness, will enable you to float like he did, too. It’s like no other deck in snowboarding. And that’s because it’s designed for pow surfing—that’s right, no bindings—on those extra, extra deep days. Not up for that? You can chill. The included insert pack enables you to mount traditional bindings. Solid or splitboard, the Euphoria comes in only three sizes, 156 cm. (120 to 180 lbs.), 162 cm. (135 to 195 lbs.), and 168 cm. (150 to 210 lbs.) and one width, a monstrous 32 cm. Choose small for your weight. $595 solid, $895 split; venturesnowboards.com

TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’. Rocker isn’t a hot, new trend. It’s an industry standard. With rare exceptions, mixed camber is downright expected for any high-performance, all-mountain ski or snowboard. Skis are fatter, snowboards softer, and sidecuts (often, but not always) blended.

NO ONE WANTS TO SAY IT. The truth is that aggressiveness of a product is compromised when it accommodates powder, crud, hardpack, and everything in between for all kinds of athletes. Major companies took to the freeride bubble because, like any natural-born right to freedom, everyone should have the right to ride powder and own an instrument to make the experience blissful.

WHAT IF YOU WANT MORE? Your dreams aren’t of foot-deep days at the local hills. They’re Warren Miller–fueled fantasies of 2,000 feet of vertical and spitting out bone-dry powder after so many face shots you can barely breathe.

By MacKenzie RyanBig Mountain Skis and Snowboardsg

ear

We skipped the middle-of-the-road picks and

searched far and wide for rides with a one-

track destiny: big lines in deep snow. These

choices aren’t your do-anythings. They are

pro-designed, handmade, burly rides for the

powder trips you’ve been planning for and

dreaming about your whole life. The only

question is: Can you handle them?

Jones Mothership Two films into his three-part series (Deeper, Further, Higher), Jeremy Jones catapulted big mountain snowboarding and splitboarding into the mainstream. Now he’s launched the first-ever, girls-only big mountain line, featuring lighter and smaller versions of his men’s decks. The ladies of Jones Snowboards—Holly Enderle, Liz Daley, Callan Chythlook-Sifsof, and Bibi Pekarek—constantly travel to find the steepest terrain and the deepest snow on the planet. Think: hiking chutes and north faces with an ice axe in hand. This board was designed for them. The Mothership has a serrated sidecut, called Magne-traction, that grips like fingers on sketchy snow. The nose is 60 millimeters longer and 2 millimeters wider than the tail, giving it some lift and streamlining the shape to plow through deep snow. With directional rocker for more float in the front of the board and camber underfoot to increase the surface area below the bindings for added stability, control, and speed, this board offers immediate responsiveness and is made to ride fast. Available in 152 cm. and 156 cm., solid or splitboard. $529; jonessnowboards.com

Winterstick Ruby Swallowtail If you’ve gotta pick a stealth ringer on the powder board market, this is it. Never heard of Winterstick? Most resort riders haven’t. This deck is 1970s-Cadillac big. It runs upwards of 180 cm. with a rocker nose

the size of K2. The nose length is 30 centimeters longer than the relatively small, swallowtail and more than 6 millimeters wider, allowing for extra maneuverability. This board isn’t for the faint of heart. Its high-grade-

carbon base is fast as hell; the steel edges have bulletproof-hold. Don’t expect it to be soft or versatile in every snow condition, but do expect agility and optimal powder performance. $888; winterstick.com

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 71

gear

Big Mountain Skis and Snowboards

GEAR GLOSSARYREVERSE SIDECUTa rounded, wide, parenthesis-like shape maximizes fl oatation in deep snow

SWALLOWTAILtwo fi ns shaped like the lower half of butterfl y wings sink the tail

TRIAXIAL FIBERGLASS

fi berglass woven three-ways at 60-degree angles to reinforce the wood core for increased stiffness. Think of an X with a line down the center.

P-TEX SIDEWALLSa super-durable polyurethane plastic that keeps integrity in very cold temperatures, therefore, rarely, if ever, cracks. Never Summer was the fi rst company to utilize this technology and they claim to have never had a sidewall crack

MAGNE-TRACTIONserrated sidecut that grips on sketchy snow

QUADRATIC SIDECUTa continuous arch-shape along the length of the board that evenly distributes pressure on the engaged edge to enable smoothness and speed

Never Summer LotusNever Summer’s Lotus and GNU boards have effectively the same camber profi le: rocker

underfoot, camber on the tip and tail. But, Denver-based snowboard company Never Summer won a lawsuit over the “rocker-camber” label a couple of years ago. However, Never Summer

stands by a traditional, quadratic sidecut to GNU’s jagged Magne-Traction. Opinions on sidecut among snowboarders get as heated as political debates, but what does it mean for you? If you’re

on sketchy snow or steep terrain, probably nothing is going to hold like Magne-Traction. But the feature that enables Magne-Traction to catch inhibits the board’s ability be as fast as a smooth,

quadratic sidecut. Plus, the Lotus is a super stiff board, so be ready for near-telepathic response and an extra six inches of air when you pop off a roller. $459.99; neversummer.com

Movement BelieveWhen you’re a Swiss-designed freeskiing company known for making only the toughest, light-but-aggressive skis, maybe a company name like Movement is fi tting. Not only are you facilitating downward motion for cliff-hucking freeriders, you’re growing the backcountry, alpine touring scene without ever compromising your product. And that’s why it’s no big surprise that Movement launched its fi rst big mountain ski for women this year, the Believe. Early-rise rocker lifts the nose in deep snow; revolutionary Control Torsion System keeps the rest of the ski stiff and responsive for the inevitably varying snow conditions that big mountain riding brings. The Believe has a wide footprint (130-99-188 in the smaller 168 and 131-99-119 in the larger 176), but stays relatively light in both sizes. $819; movementskis.com

Liberty EnvyThe Envy may not be the burliest ski in the bunch, but it earns major brownie points for versatility. The Vail-based company is the fi rst company to use bamboo exclusively for all of its skis and poles. Born out of a need for a more aggressive do-anything ski for lighter clientele, Liberty passed on adding metal edges to the Envy’s already-light core. They rockered the nose and added camber underfoot to create a playful all-mountain ski that can carve on groomers and slash through sidecountry tree stashes. The wide footprint and medium stiffness allows for greater response in most conditions, plus stability at speed. East Coast skiers can get a less expensive, narrower model for packed snow and ice. $659 powder version, $559 narrow, all-mountain version; libertyboardshop.com

Nordica La NiñaNordica claims La Niña is Spanish for “women’s rip stick.” We suspect it’s homage to Winter 2011 or a deifi cation of the kind of woman who can handle this beastly pair of planks. There’s nothing intermediate about this ski. It’s very big (177, 185, or 195 cm.) and very wide (143-113-132 footprint). Good thing Nordica’s wi-core technology reduces La Nina’s weight by 20%. Highrise camRock at the tip and tail is designed for effective powder skiing, but it’s tempered by a little camber underfoot to keep your skis moving through crud and hardpack. The low, broad Hammerhead nose adds extra early edge contact, relieving that skiing-on-a-saucer feeling typical to skis with reverse camber in the tip. $899; nordicausa.com

GNU B-ProIt’s the longest running women’s pro model in the game.

Slopestyle to big mountain comps, chances are you’re going to see one of GNU’s team riders on the podium with the B-Pro in

hand. Rockered below your feet, with camber on the tip and tail and Magne-Traction along the edges, this ride holds a death grip on any kind of

snow. What sets the B-Pro apart from every other women’s board is its ability to be incredibly light, nimble, and extremely responsive. New this year is a technology

called LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer), a self-reinforcing alignment system created from heating then cooling polymers. Its unusual strength (ten times that of titanium) eliminates

chatter and maximizes pop. Available in 146, 149, 152 and 155 cm. $549.95; GNU.com


Winter Soft Goodsg

ear Stuff You Can’t

Live Without!Ski NORDIC AND/OR BACKCOUNTRY

Snowshoe

By Chris Kassar

Salomon XR Mission CS W. Thanks to perfectly placed bits of ClimaShield™, this trail shoe keeps feet snug and the elements out without suffocating your dogs. Single pull lacing works with frozen fingers, while aggressive soles grip tricky, slippery terrain, and reflective details protect you as days darken. $130; salomonrunning.com

Kahtoola Microspikes. Stay vertical as you cruise on hard-packed snowy trails or icy roads with the most reliable, durable, and secure traction out there—lightweight, compact, and easy to use. Toss them in a pack or pocket and you’ll never find yourself in a jam. $59.95; kahtoola.com

Vasque Snowblime UltraDry. Totally insulated and waterproof, this mid-height boot can’t be beat for exploring the mountains in winter. These luxury-laden kicks can go the distance thanks to a stretchy panel of Cushin™ at the tongue that eases pressure on shins, a cushiony insole that keeps your step full of bounce and features that ensure a solid fit with snowshoes and stability over uneven terrain. $140; vasque.com

Stio Dulcet Pants. Looking for a comfy soft shell pant that seamlessly goes from cross country ski trail, to snowshoe race, to dinner party? Look no further. These threads—coated with DWR (durable water repellent) to shed water—look exceptional and perform even better. The slim cut means more efficient maneuverability (think: no sagging material) over rugged terrain and a stylish appearance for post-adventure festivities. $175; stio.com

W Ibex Wool Aire Vest. Wooly warmth nested in a recycled nylon shell means this new addition to Ibex’s line will maintain your temp even if you get damp. Performs like a champ on its own and as a layer

on extra cold days or descents. Though a heavy hitter in terms of adaptability, it’s light and packs tiny into its own pocket so you can bring it—just in case. $275; ibex.com

W Helly Hansen H2 Flow Jacket. Swiss cheese. That’s what the inside of this sleek, featherweight jacket looks like. But, don’t stop to snack. It’s actually new advanced technology at work: Black holes (negative spaces) keep body heat flowing out while the red fleece (positive spaces) keeps you toasty. This high quality piece works wonders for a myriad of snowy, frosty pursuits since it provides an impeccable amount of insulation, while allowing sweat to float away. $175; hellyhansen.com

Run

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 73

Winter Soft Goods

SEE: No one beats Julbo for

year-round optics. Riding or running? Grab

the Julbo Trek with Camel lenses for barely there feel and

excellent performance. On Snow? Choose the Julbo Monterosa with Camel lenses, too. They’re polarized to reduce glare, photochromic to transition with light conditions, and stylish so they work in town. Trek $200, Monterosa $190; julbousa.com

FEEL THE HEAT: Headsweats performance hats are soft, comfortable, fi t under helmets, and perform well. The new lightweight Toaster Beanie ($22) rocks for any aerobic activity, and the new mid-weight Fleece Cycling Cap and Fleece Race Hat ($24) with extended earfl aps and a neck guard offer protection on gnarly days. headsweats.com

LOOK HOT: Even 80 mph winds and

sleet are no match for Bani Bands—

the headband designed to keep the athletic

woman together. Unlike so many others, these actually work thanks to a unique SoftGripTM fabric and adjustable strap that keep them in place no matter what the weather has in store. $12–18; banibands.com

LAYER UP: It sounds crazy, but a baselayer can make or break your day. Terramar makes some of the best. The new women’s Hottotties Cloud Nine 2.0 tops and bottoms wick moisture away and trap air for warmth while moving with you and feeling elegant on your skin all day long. terramarsports.com

gear

RideSkirt Sports Cruisin’ Tights. Style, comfort, and performance co-exist in this windproof skirt/chamois-equipped tight combo sure to keep you cycling year ’round. Sweet features: women’s-specifi c padding, ankle zippers to lend you options, smart pockets for essentials, and a design fl attering enough for a post-ride trip to the bar. $120; skirtsports.com

Patagonia Women’s Mixed Guide Pant & Hoody. Getting high this winter? Then get your hands on this dynamic duo—required gear for any alpine quest. These hybrid pieces, with the precise mixture and placement of soft and hard shell components, crush the elements and allow for unfettered movement, whether you choose to attack the ice, rock, snow-capped peaks, or some combo. As usual, Patagonia covered all the details, making sure pockets, vents, hood, and fi t were harness- and helmet-friendly. Pant $299, Jacket $299; patagonia.com

Do It All

KEEP IT TOGETHER: The Osprey Kyte, the latest addition to Osprey’s stellar line, is versatile and tough enough for any winter adventure. Especially comfortable because it is made to fi t female frames, this pack can do it all thanks to fab features including

stretch mesh front and side pockets, climbing tool attachments, and an integrated rain cover. Kyte 46L $169, Kyte 36L $149; ospreypacks.com

Pearl Izumi W Ultra Windblocking Jacket. Billed for running, this sleek new windproof, water-resistant piece also crushes it on chilly rides. Its hybrid design—part fl eece, part soft shell—means you’ll climb without overheating and stay toasty on descents. Bonus: sleeves with thumb hooks that convert to fi st mitts for extra protection if things turn gnarly mid-ride or run. $160; pearlizumi.com

Climb

Because these key pieces transcend specifi c activities, it’s likely they’ll become permanent fi xtures in your outdoor ensemble.


Osprey Variant 37. Pro skier Kim Havell uses this as her backcountry ski pack and loves it. The Variant comes in three torso sizes and five hipbelt sizes so women can find a fit that’s right for them. The pack’s features make it ideal for ice climbing, too.$179; ospreypacks.com

G3 Zest. The kind of ski I (and most women) like and need is one that feels performs in all conditions on any sort of terrain yet feels natural and easy to control. One like the Zest, which is G3’s most popular women’s ski but revamped. Smooth turning via a more progressive camber line and early tip rise and responsiveness come together in this balanced and beautiful ski. $599; genuineguidegear.com

K2 TalkBack. Making the AT gear-buying experience easy, this ski is compatible with pre-cut skins and also features tip and tail hardware that serve at attachment points for skis and also for rescue and mountaineering tools. Pair with the K2 Rescue Shovel Plus ($89.95) that can be used in hoe mode and as an emergency rescue sled with the skis, as a deadman anchor, or simply as a flat surface for a stove. The K2 Ski Alliance, celebrating its 10th anniversary, donates to the Breast Cancer Research Fund with every ski sold, donating about $75,000 per year. $599; k2skis.com

Volkl Charisma. Easier, smoother turns is possible, thanks to technology in this alpine ski. Plus, new technology in the women’s collection reduces stress on the leg and knee muscles to minimize the risk of knee injury. $1,065; volkl.com

K2 Carbon/Carbon LockJaw backcountry pole. Featuring a probe, flexible webbed baskets, bubble inclinometer, snow depth ruler, and a lightweight grip, this pole is easily adjustable to fit your height and to add performance in varying conditions. $179.95; k2skis.com

Deuter Freeride Pro 28 SL. A backcountry pack with shovel and probe pockets plus integrated ski and snowboard carrying options, designed with a shorter back and slimmer straps for a woman’s body. $159; deuter.com

G3 Alpinist High Traction Climbing skins. Add G3’s skin savers ($15) to prolong the life of your skins and make the pull-apart process easier. $153.95; genuineguidegear.com

Backcountryg

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WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 75

Ortovox 3+. An avalanche beacon that is intuitive and simple to use—not some gadget with 16 buttons, several codes to learn, and a 200-page instruction booklet. The Ortovox 3+ is sturdy, with one button (a flagging function for multiple burials), and an easy-to-use screen. But, the most attractive feature of the Ortovox 3+ is its three sending signals, on the x, y, and z axes, that will alternate depending on orientation of the burial. So, compared to beacons that only send out one signal, a signal from the 3+ can be received from a greater distance, no matter how the beacon is oriented. $349; ortovox.com

G3 Ruby. Intuitive, lightweight, and secure, this women’s-specific AT binding has a lower DIN range (5-10) for lighter skiers. The Ruby’s toejaws are easy to open, and switching to and from tour mode proves simple, also. $489.95; genuineguidegear.com

Scarpa Gea RS. Designed for hard-charging AT skiers and freeride rippers, this new version of the Gea tours well but switches into a ski mode that’s 20 percent stiffer than the original model and delivers responsive, powerful performance. $699; scarpa.com

Marker DUKE .EPF. Wider and stronger for precise power transmission, the new Duke is for a big mountain freeskier who wants an easy system for climbing but needs to stay attached to her skis on the wild ride down. Its listed DIN range is 6-16 and recommended skier weight is 130 pounds plus, so the Duke .EPF’s burly construction is probably overkill for women not skiing large skis or hucking cliffs. $495; markerusa.com

Tecnica Cochise 90W. A boot for all your skiing needs, from the

ski area to the backcountry. $525; tecnicausa.com

gear

Backcountry

NOTE: All beacons are affected by smartphone and GPS signals. When I started testing the 3+ this fall, I had my smartphone right next to it, and the arrow was all over the place! —Katya Hafich

For an extended review, see

womensadventure magazine.com.


Staff Picksg

ear

Timberland Earthkeepers Alpine Tall Waterproof Boot. I put on these boots and started to jump around with joy. They have a comfy, soft lining all the way to the top of the boot, which hits my calf in just the right spot. There is a ton of room in the toe box for the days when I wear extra thick wool socks, and the soles are very rugged. So cute! I look just like a catalog model—but ready for winter! $300; timberland.com

—Susan Bhat

Marmot Wm’s Dena jacket. So lightweight yet so warm. I especially like the way it is cut to fit to the body and not oversized and boxy. The chest pockets (inside and out) are great for carrying necessities, so you can use the lower pockets for keeping your hands warm or storing your gloves. Fun colors too! $190; marmot.com —Kari Luraas

W Mountain Hardwear Beta Power Hoody. Details and versatility make this incredibly soft zip-neck top shine. Stretch and movement collide with warmth to create the perfect cold weather workout partner. Fave features: Only 11 ounces, generous back zip pocket, thumb loops, and soft fabric prevents chin chafe even after wearing it all day. $100; mountainhardwear.com

Teva Jordanelle. From the Lifty Collection, this fun boot is a modern take on a classic. It goes from town to hut and is packable and versatile, no matter where you need to cart it or wear it. With 250 grams of insulation and a grippy sole, it performs in the rugged outdoors. But its removable boot liner keeps you cozy during card games at the condo or while sipping après cocktails in the yurt. $170; teva.com

WAM • WINTER | 2012/13 77

Staff Picksgear

Stanley One Hand Vacuum Mug. If I were stranded on a desert island with a camp stove and limited amounts of fuel, I’d choose the Stanley One Hand Vacuum Mug as one of my other three must-have items. New technology—like vacuum insulation that keeps drinks hot or cold for 6 hours—is built into the classic design of this BPA-free mug. It’s the one item I take with me, both to the office and out into nature. Its double-wall stainless steel ensures I can comfortably hold it even when scalding hot liquids are inside and also contributes to its durability. (I did manage to drop it while full, which chipped the lid a bit, but it still works perfectly.) The leak-proof design only lets liquid escape the mug when you press a button on the lid to drink. You can completely disassemble the lid and throw all the pieces in to the dishwasher. $30; shopstanley-pmi.com

Sea to Summit Pack Cover. Durable waterproof fabric that’s seam sealed and contoured to fit your pack. We like the large size, which fits a pack 70-95 liters, to ensure full coverage. $44.95; seatosummit.com

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Nano Drysack. Stow gear you need to stay dry inside your pack with this super lightweigh, water proof sack with a roll-top closure and reinforced stitching for ultimate strength, durability, and waterproofing. $15-27; seatosummit.com

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Backpack Kitchen. Mini cooking and cleaning utensils for the gourmet cook who packs light, even when it comes to hut trips or winter camping. $10.95; gsioutdoors.com

A good reliable light is crux for staying active as sunlight wanes in winter. Princeton Tec can meet all your lighting needs. For early morning/late night snowshoes, ski outings, or runs, check out the rechargeable and extremely bright Apex headlamp ($150) that includes a wide beam and spotlight setting. For the bike, try the Push (front, $50) and Swerve (back, $28). princetontec.com

Donate $10 or more toward Boarding for Breast

Cancer (B4BC.org) and Boa will send over a new set of replacement

reels—in pink. Pink-ify your Boa-compatible snowboard boots

or give the new pink dials to a friend who’ll appreciate that 100 percent of

your donation went to B4BC.

BoaTechnology.com/ReelPink

GSI Outdoors Halulite MicroDualist. The nesting cookware system for two contains two small, covered bowls

and accompanying, retractable sporks nested into a large pot and tucked into a stuff sack that doubles as a

sink. The large pot’s integrated strainer in the lid and the system’s BPA-free materials

make this our top pick for backcountry cooking. $54.95; gsioutdoors.com


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Partners

Join Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition at these events and network with peers in the outdoor industries.

June 13 Portland & Salt Lake City

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Oct 11 Boulder/Denver, Northeast

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special thanks to:

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We climb. We hike. We fight ovarian cancer one step at a time.


It’s Personal

This winter’s fi rst snowfall inspired a nostalgia for my fi rst Antarctic fi eld season. The calmness of the snow dampening the sound of traffi c

reminded me of the fi rst thing I noticed in the Dry Valleys: the silence. This silence is not just audible stillness but also a lack of the routine noise of bus-tling urban life in the States. Although we had plenty of work to keep us busy, our lives were simplifi ed by the focused objectives of monitoring McMurdo Dry Valleys’ streams and taking care of our camp chores.

I set foot in the McMurdo Dry Valleys (MDV), Antarctica, for the fi rst time last October. It had been a dream since starting as a graduate student at the University of Colorado, but I never guessed I’d have the opportunity to do fi eld work there. I worked as a fi eld hydrology research assistant as a member of Stream Team and hiked from stream to stream, measuring the fl ow and taking water chemistry samples of ephemeral glacier-fed streams.

The Dry Valleys are 50 miles from McMurdo and a short 45-minute heli-copter ride. This site is part of the Long Term Ecological Research Network (LTER), which enables scientists like me to study ecology at extreme envi-ronmental limits and ecological connectivity between systems.

Before heading to Antarctica, I thought it would be a one-time experience, something to check off my bucket list before focusing on research and professional interests. I braced myself for being cold and feeling lonely in the harsh Antarctic environment. To my surprise, I caught polar fever!

As part of fi eld work, we hiked to alpine glaciers across frozen lakes with views of an active volcano, Mt. Erebus—obviously remarkable experiences. But Antarctica’s social dynamic was also intriguing. For example, there were so many men! I heard that McMurdo was like a ski town and, while the saying “the odds are good, but the goods are odd” does apply here, the

plethora of interesting, outdoorsy men made Antarctic work a tad more interesting socially. After my undergraduate experience at UNC-Chapel Hill, where females outnumber men in a 60:40 ratio, it was refreshing to be part of the minority.

Aside from my dorm-living days, this is the most socially dynamic place I have resided. It is equally acceptable to be a recluse or actively engage in this community, enabling the option to dive in socially or remain on the periph-ery. Moments of solitude are easily found through hikes and walks, even in smaller fi eld camps of three to six people, where personal space is super limited. Luckily, I got to share this experience as part of a fantastic group.

The only time I returned to ‘MacTown’ at McMurdo Station was over New Years, when I got my fi rst real shower in more than two months. During the helicopter fl ight over, we spotted emperor penguins, seals, and glacier icebergs stuck in the sea ice. There are no polar bears in Antarctica, but penguins and seals are plentiful on and near the sea ice. In the Dry Valleys, it is extremely rare to encounter a live animal, but there are a surprising large number of mummifi ed penguins and seals. It’s diffi cult to imagine what could inspire a marine mammal to journey into the dry valleys so many miles from the ocean. The jagged rocks, rough sediments, and no running water or prey is an unfortunate and sure death for the animals.

As McMurdo came into view that day, I felt empty with the thought of leaving the Dry Valleys at the end of the fi eld season. Although MacTown is not as scenic as the dry valleys, it feels like a place of rich social culture when coming from a small camp. While in town, I reunited with friends I’d met during my initial arrival in Antarctica, which goes to show how much polar exploration has changed in the last century. The fi rst two parties reached the South Pole one hundred years ago last year. In those days, people risked their lives for Antarctic exploration and were cut off from communication with family and friends. Now, we write blogs from the middle of the Dry Valleys, and I was even courted by satellite phone by a mountaineer in an even more remote fi eld camp. Technological advantages aside, our scientifi c under-standing of the Dry Valleys is the thing that has most changed this century. Although there are still unanswered questions, such as how the ecosystem will respond to anticipated climate warming in the MDV, we have a much richer understanding of the geologic history and the diverse biotic communities in the soils and waters.

The holidays were possibly the most magical time in the Dry Valleys. At Thanksgiving and Christmas, everyone in the Taylor Valley congregated at Lake Hoare camp to celebrate together. In a not-so-different parallel to holidays in the U.S., Thanksgiving was cast with bad weather. No helicopter fl ights could access the Valley for several days, which limited food delivery and made travel diffi cult. But everyone made it to camp, though some hiked miles to get there, and feasted on the food we had on hand. At Christmas, we followed a hearty dinner with a white elephant gift exchange and a more than magnetic dance party. After spending two months working six days a week in remote fi eld sites with the same people, we relished in holiday mo-ments and the chance for merriment in a more populated setting.

I’m looking forward to returning this season and will let you know whether a second season is as intriguing as the fi rst!

Alia taking a stream discharge measurement on Lyons Stream which is fl owing from Taylor Glacier in the Taylor Valley.

Holidays in AntarcticaHow One Scientist Caught Polar Fever

By Alia Khan

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Winter 2012-13 Women's Adventure Magazine

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Transcript of Winter 2012-13 Women's Adventure Magazine