- 18
- Episodes
- 3
- Ratings
- 2023
- First episode
About Vermont Trail Chatter
Vermont Trail Chatter is a podcast focused on sharing stories and experiences from organizations and individuals that make the Green Mountain State such an awesome place to recreate. We'll talk with land managers, trail builders, volunteers, and other trail users. We'll explore new outdoor trends. Sometimes we'll talk about gear... People love gear! Ultimately, we want to help you develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of all trails... From how much work is required to create and maintain a trail... To the experiences our trails facilitate.
- Category
- society & culture · sports
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 19 Jul 2023
- Latest episode
- 7 Nov 2023
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
7 Nov 2023
Scott Reeves : Stowe Mountain Resort
On today's episode we talk with Sr, Director of Mountain Operations of Stowe Mountain Resort Scott Reeves. We talk about how Scott got into skiing and how he made it into a career. He talks about a couple of the small cogs in a big machine to keep a resort running. With us being the uphill-oriented shop we are we of course dive into the uphill policy and what we can do as a community to make it better.
6 Oct 2023
17 - Noah Dines: The Quest For 3 Million
In this episode of Vermont Trail Chatter we speak with Noah Dines (https://www.instagram.com/_noah_asher_/), and Aaron Rice (https://www.instagram.com/airandrice/). Aaron currently holds the record for the most vertical skied in a single year using only human power... No lifts, no snowmobiles, no helicopters... Just your own two legs! He set the record in 2016 by skiing 2.5 million feet, or more precisely 2,506,499ft. You can learn more about Aaron's experience in the film by Tyler Wilkinson-Ray - 2.5 Million (https://vimeo.com/246700177). During our talk Aaron shares a bit about the history of this record, and his experience breaking it (https://vtskiandride.com/return-of-the-backcountry-badass/). Noah is a 29 year old teacher from Stowe, VT who is hoping to break Aarons record by attempting to ski 3 million feet in 2024. During our discussion we talk about his strategy and what motivates him, and we explore some of the challenges he will face as well as some of the things he's looking forward to. Noah plans to begin his record attempt on January 1st here in Vermont. If you'd like to support Noah in this endeavor please consider making a contribution HERE (https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-quest-for-3-million?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer). You can also find and connect with Noah on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/_noah_asher_/).
22 Sept 2023
16 - Caroline Patten: MolaHoods
In this episode of Vermont Trail Chatter we sit down with Caroline Patten of MolaHoods to learn more about her history making gear, her transition to full-time apparel making, and how MolaHoods is making the world a better place through conscientious sourcing of materials and sustainable production.
11 Sept 2023
15 - Robby Laughlin & David Hatoff: Mountain Ops
This is our first official episode of Vermont Trail Chatter, and today we sat down with our co-hosts for this series, Robby & Dave, to learn a little bit about them, their roles within the trails community, and some of the things they hope to explore in future episodes.
26 Jul 2023
14 - Backcountry Show & Tell: What To Pack + First Aid & Repair Items
What do experienced backcountry skiers and splitboarders carry in their packs when they head out on a tour? Join our guests as they unpack their packs for us and tell us a bit about why they are carrying the items found inside. During this informal chat we will cover standard items such as extra layers, food, something to drink, etc... But we will also take a close look at what specific items our guests are carrying in their first aid and repair kits. The goal here isn't to promote a "right" approach. The goal is to show that there are a variety of approaches. We hope by sharing that we can help you stay safe and comfortable on your next tour. Learn more about the Catamount Trail Association: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org)
26 Jul 2023
13 - Backcountry Show & Tell: Pandem-Etiquette
In this episode we will be sitting down with Mike Snyder (Commissioner Of VT Forest Parks & Rec) Andrew Clawson (USFS), Steve Sharp (President - Mad River Valley Backcountry Coalition), and Erik Osterlund (concerned citizen, and NEK Splitboarder) to discuss backcountry etiquette and share some best practices. All signs this season point to a significant increase in backcountry traffic, and unfortunately it is possible to love something to death. Being considerate and kind will ensure the experiences we seek are available to us and to others. Whether or not you're new to the sport we all need to be looking out for each other, and doing everything we can to take care of the spaces we love. Winter Wildland Alliance SkiKind BC Responsibility Code: https://winterwildlands.org/ski-kind/ (https://winterwildlands.org/ski-kind/) Catamount Trail Backcountry Etiquette: https://catamounttrail.org/ski-the-trail/faq/trail-etiquette/ (https://catamounttrail.org/ski-the-trail/faq/trail-etiquette/)
26 Jul 2023
12 - Backcountry Show & Tell: Clothing Strategies
What are people wearing when backcountry skiing or splitboarding? Join our guests as they show us what they wear and share some clothing strategies for staying warm and comfortable when sliding around in the woods. During this informal chat we will cover all of the layers you might wear from head to toe. We're not here to tell you what to use or how to dress, but we do hope that by sharing what we're wearing and why we can help you figure out how to stay comfortable on your next tour. Learn more about the Catamount Trail Association: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org)
26 Jul 2023
11 - Backcountry Show & Tell: XCD/Nordic Touring Equipment
What kind of gear are people using in Vermont's backcountry? Join our guests as they show us what they'll be on this season and tell us a little bit about why they chose the gear they're using. During this informal chat we will cover Nordic Touring skis, bindings, boots, skins, poles, goggles, helmets, and packs. We're not here to tell you what to use, but we do hope that by sharing why we've made the choices we've made we can help you make more informed decisions when facing down the myriad of options available today. Learn more about the Catamount Trail Association: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org)
26 Jul 2023
10 - Backcountry Show & Tell: Splitboard Equipment
What kind of gear are people using in Vermont's backcountry? Join our guests as they show us what they'll be riding this season and tell us a little bit about why they chose the gear they're using. During this informal chat we will cover Splitboard decks, bindings, boots, skins, poles, goggles, helmets, and packs. We're not here to tell you what to use, but we do hope that by sharing why we've made the choices we've made we can help you make more informed decisions when facing down the myriad of options available today. Learn more about the Catamount Trail Association: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org)
26 Jul 2023
9 - Backcountry Show & Tell: Alpine Touring & Telemark Equipment
What kind of gear are people using in Vermont's backcountry? During this informal chat we will cover Alpine Touring & Telemark skis, bindings, boots, skins, poles, goggles, helmets, and packs. We're not here to tell you what to use, but we do hope that by sharing why we've made the choices we've made we can help you make more informed decisions when facing down the myriad of options available today. Learn more about the Catamount Trail Association: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org) Review & TakeawaysSkis There are a lot of good skis out there and it's hard to go wrong. Generally wider skis (95-110mm) are warranted for backcountry skiing due to surface conditions typically being softer. That said everyone should recognize that choosing a ski for exploring the backcountry is an exercise in tradeoffs. Lighter skis are going to perform great on the uphill while heavier skis will generally perform better on the downhill, and you have to know your priorities. Bindings For dedicated backcountry setups tech or pin bindings are preferred. That said, frame bindings should also be considered, especially if budget or safety is a concern or if they will see a lot resort use. People often worry that tech bindings won't be durable enough, but this is not something most people should worry about or factor into their buying decisions. Boots Fit and range of motion are paramount. A boot that fits well and has decent range of motion in walk mode is going to tour well. Try on a lot of boots and get what fits your foot. Also be aware of overly light boots. There's no magic to cutting weight... They just use less material. One of the easiest ways to save weight is by using a shorter cuff. This can drastically effect the performance of the boot. Skins There are typically 3 varieties... Nylon, Mohair, and Mixed. Nylon are the least expensive and offer the most grip and durability, but are stiff and bulky. Mohair are typically lighter, more packable, and offer more glide. However they are expensive, less durable, and less grippy. Mixed skins... a mix of mohair and nylon... hit the sweet spot and offer the best combination of the cost, grip, glide, weight, and packability. Don't be afraid of trimming your skins... just get a G3 trim tool and it'll be easy peasy. Learning proper skinning technique is preferred to purchasing grippier skins. Poles Just use what you have. If you are going to buy a pair, get something adjustable. Cheap aluminum poles are perfect. Use your straps on the up, but ditch them on the downs. There are more things in the BC for your pole to get snagged on and being able to let go of your pole might save a shoulder. Helmets Wear one. Light is nice, and most people carry it on, or in, their packs on the up, and only wear it on the descent. Eye Protection Wear something. Backcountry skiing in Vermont means skiing in the woods and oftentimes skiing "through" the woods. Your goggles or glasses don't have to be fancy, and there are many good reasons to use something that's not fancy, but you should use something. Your eyes are important. Backpacks For most people in most situations a 30-35 liter pack is just about right. If you know you're going to be in avy terrain you are going to want something specifically designed to carry the necessary items while offer quick access. Otherwise, for general touring in Vermont, any old backpack with enough space to hold all of your snacks will suffice. If you're new to backcountry skiing there are definitely some considerations that need to be taken into account. That said, the best gear is the stuff that gets you out there and keeps you safe. That doesn't mean it needs to be fancy of expensive. Think snow!
26 Jul 2023
8 - The Vermont Backcountry Ski Handbook (Spring 2023)
The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR), Catamount Trail Association (CTA), and the U.S. Forest Service have released a new resource, The Vermont Backcountry Ski Handbook. The goal of this resource is to give public and private land managers the tools and information they need to manage land for backcountry skiing in a sustainable way that complements forest management and ecological protection goals. Join us as we sit down with representatives from the State of Vermont, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Catamount Trail Association to learn more about this new publication! The discussion will be moderated by guest host David Goodman, a backcountry skiing legend and author of Best Backcountry Skiing In The Northeast (https://bestbackcountryskiing.com/ (https://bestbackcountryskiing.com/)). Learn more about the Catamount Trail Association at: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org) Download a copy of the Vermont Backcountry Ski Handbook here: https://catamounttrail.org/vtbchandbook/ (https://catamounttrail.org/vtbchandbook/) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
26 Jul 2023
7 - The Catamount Trail Founders Return with David Goodman (Fall 2021)
On March 1, 1984, three young men — Steve Bushey, Paul Jarris, and Ben Rose — set off to ski across Vermont on something they called the Catamount Trail. By completing their trip they made history, and a new long-distance trail was born. Join the three founders for a virtual reunion as they discuss that first Catamount Trail adventure, where it led them in life, and their thoughts on the trail today. This interview was conducted on Zoom and will include an audience Q&A at the end. The discussion is moderated by guest host David Goodman, author of the bestselling guidebook, Best Backcountry Skiing In The Northeast (https://bestbackcountryskiing.com (https://bestbackcountryskiing.com)). Learn more about the Catamount Trail at http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
26 Jul 2023
6 - Aidan Powell: Setting An FKT On The CT (Winter 2021)
During winter 2021 Aidan Powell set out to do something special... Ski the entirety of the Catamount Trail faster than anyone has before. This endeavor required a significant amount of planning and preparation and in the end Aidan accomplished what he set out to do. During this Trail Chatter episode we sit down with Aidan to learn more about what it takes to ski over 300 miles of trail quickly and efficiently. We'll dig into his planning process, and talk about the challenges he faced out on the trail. You can learn more about Aidan and keep track of his current adventures over at https://www.instagram.com/aa.powell (https://www.instagram.com/aa.powell) Learn more about the Catamount Trail at http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
26 Jul 2023
5 - Vermont Huts Association (Winter 2021)
The Vermont Huts Association (VHA) was founded in 2016 to create a network of backcountry huts that would help connect trails and facilitate adventure here in Vermont. During this episode of Vermont Trail Chatter we will be sitting down with VHA founders RJ Thompson and Devin Littlefield to learn a bit more about the people behind the organization, and to discuss how things are going. You can learn more about the Vermont Huts Association Network and become a member at https://vermonthuts.org (https://vermonthuts.org) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
26 Jul 2023
4 - Milan Kubala: Athlete Advisory Chair, US Ski Mountaineering Association (Winter 2021)
Join us as we sit down with Milan Kubala of Stowe, VT. We first connected with Milan at our weekly skimo races in 2016. Since then a lot has happened. During our talk we'll learn how Milan became known as the Denim Ghost, about his journey from racing by headlamp at Bolton Valley to competing in Europe, and what led him to join the board of directors of the United States Ski Mountaineering Association (USSMA). We'll also talk to Milan about what he's been up to this season and his plans for the future. Milan has been working with Bolton Valley and Sunrise Mountain Guides to build instructional programs focused on uphill skiing. You can connect with Milan through the links below: Bolton Valley https://www.boltonvalley.com/winter/lessons-teams-guiding/backcountry-lessons-guiding (https://www.boltonvalley.com/winter/lessons-teams-guiding/backcountry-lessons-guiding) Sunrise Mountain Guides https://www.sunrisemountainguides.com/backcountry-skiing (https://www.sunrisemountainguides.com/backcountry-skiing) US Ski Mountaineering Association (USSMA) https://ussma.org (https://ussma.org) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
26 Jul 2023
3 - Matt William: Catamount Trail Association Executive Director (Winter 2021)
In this episode we sit down with Matt Williams, Executive Director here at the Catamount Trail Association. Matt joined us in the spring of 2018. This interview was done as he approached the end of his third year at the helm, we sat down to talk about how things have been going and what the future holds. You can learn more about the Catamount Trail Association at: http://www.catamounttrail.org (http://www.catamounttrail.org) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
26 Jul 2023
2 - SplitboardVT.com (Winter 2021)
Join us as we sit down with Al Karam and Mitch Rovito the founders of SplitboardVT.com (http://SplitboardVT.com). We chat with them about how they got into splitboarding, where the idea for SplitboardVT came from, and what they hope to accomplish. Learn More At: http://www.splitboardvt.com (http://www.splitboardvt.com) Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
19 Jul 2023
1 - Managing Terrain & Access: How Much Is Enough? (Winter 2021)
Interest in "earning-your-turns" has exploded during recent history in Vermont, and the small number of individuals roaming Vermont's backcountry or skinning up our local ski areas have grown into a wave of stoke for the uphill experience. Recreational organizations, communities, and volunteers have responded by building an expanding network of "managed zones" throughout the state and region. Ski areas have adjusted and adapted their uphill policies, and ski shops have stocked-up on the latest gear. However, demand is outpacing supply. How can communities adjust to meet the demand for more managed zones while balancing other recreational, economic, or environmental goals? This moderated panel discussion brings together representatives from Vermont’s backcountry community, ski areas, and the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) to discuss success stories and the opportunities and challenges ahead. Note: Season 1 episodes of Vermont Trail Chatter were originally recorded via Zoom and appeared on the Catamount Trail Association YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/@catamounttrailvt). The audio from those videos has been published here. Season 2 will bring new episodes recorded specifically for this format.
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