10 Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2018-2019

Winter hiking boots have evolved tremendously over the past 10 years and are now lighter weight and more comfortable than ever before. Gone are the days when you needed to choose between military surplus boots, plastic mountaineering boots, or heavy pac boots to keep your feet warm. Today's winter boots are waterproof, breathable, and insulated to keep you warm down to -40 Fahrenheit or more. They're also optimized for walking over ice and packed snow, and compatible with traction aids such as microspikes and snowshoes. Whether you're climbing mountains or snowshoeing across mixed terrain, the latest generation of winter hiking boots will keep you warm and dry.

Here are our top 10 best winter hiking boot recommendations:

1. Salomon Toundra Pro CS WP

Read our Salomon Toundra Review

Salomon's Toundra Pro CS WP was the first winter hiking boot to incorporate ultralight Aerogel insulation developed by NASA for spaceflight. Rated to -40F, these popular winter hiking boots have a large comfortable toe box. a reinforced toe kick for added protection, and a heel cap that is compatible with microspike and snowshoe bindings. An arch in the midsole provides gaiter compatibility, while a fleece lined tongue and upper boot provide a cushy, comfortable fit. I've been wearing the Toundra Pro for the past few winters and think they're a great cold weather hiking boot. The Salomon Toundras run true to size. A women's Toundra Pro CS WP is also available.

Check for the latest prince at:
Moosejaw | Amazon | Zappos

2. KEEN Summit County

Read our Keen Summit County Review

The KEEN Summit County is also rated to -40F, but it has more insulation positioned in the toe box than in the upper cuff to keep your feet warmer. These winter boots have KEEN's large signature toe box and run a bit wide, so they're good for people who have a hard time jamming their feet into narrow boots. A beefy toe kick, heel cap, and excellent side protection make these boots ideal for challenging terrain, while a heat-reflective foot bed covered with wool adds warmth from below.

Check for the latest prince at:
KEEN | REI | Zappos

3. Vasque Snowburban II UltraDry

Vasque's Snowburban II UltraDry boots are beefy winter hiking boots insulated with 400 grams of Thinsulate synthetic insulation. The have leather uppers with a water proof lining to keep your feet dry and a slight arch for gaiter compatibility. The EVA midsole has a thermoplastic urethane shank which is lightweight but helps cushion and protect your foot from sharp rocks while relieving calf stress on descents. A wool collar helps reduce odors and increases comfort for all day use.

Check for the latest prince at:
REI | Amazon | Zappos

4. Merrell Thermo Freeze

The Merrell Thermo Freeze is a mid-sized winter hiking boot with 400 grams of insulation. The height of the boot's cuff is just 6″, so they're much lighter weight than boots that run higher up your calf. The Thermo Freezes have a protective toe cap and heel cup, but less lateral protection than boots with heavy wraparound rands. EVA midsoles and molded nylon arch shanks deliver cushioning and stability. A generous arch provides gaiter compatibility, but the boots do not have a front gaiter ring so you'll need to clip them to your laces. A women's model is available.

Check for the latest prince at:
REI | Amazon | Zappos

5. The North Face Chilkat 400

The Chilkat 400 is the North Face's cold weather winter boot, rated to -40F and insulated with 400 grams of Primaloft Silver Eco insulation. They have a waterproof full-grain leather upper with a heavy-duty wrap-around rand, protective toe cap, and snowshoe compatible heel cup. A compression-molded EVA midsole provides good support, while extra hell cushioning and forefoot pads provide enhanced comfort. The lacing system has durable rust-proof metal hardware and a gaiter D-ring is provided. They run a full size small, so size up if you plan to wear a thick sock. A women's model is available.

Check for the latest prince at:
The North Face

6. Oboz Bridger 10″ Insulated BDry Winter Boots

Oboz Bridger 10″ BDry Winter Boots are lined with a waterproof membrane and insulated with 400 grams of Thinsulate. The uppers are covered with synthetic leather for added protection, along with a beefy toe cap, and snowshoe compatible heel cup. An arched sole and front D ring provide gaiter compatibility, while aggressive lugs provide excellent traction on snow. The Bridgers have a PU midsole and nylon shank for added undercarriage protection and come with a wool-covered reflective insole for added warmth. A 9″ women's model is also available. 

Check for the latest prince at:
REI | Amazon | Zappos

7. KEEN Durand Polar Waterproof Winter Hiking Boot

The KEEN Durand Polar Winter Hiking Boot is narrower than the KEEN Summit County Boot listed above, with a smaller toe box and less external protection, but they just as warm, with 400 grams of insulation.  They have metal lacing hardware which is easier to use and more durable, an arch for gaiter compatibility, and more boot rocker, making it easier to walk in them. The Durands also have a TPU midsole shank and heel cushion providing underfoot protection from sharp rocks and debris. KEEN claims that they're not compatible with third-party insoles or orthotics, but I can replace the factory insoles with green Superfeet without any issues. The sizing runs about 1/2 size small, so size up.  A women's version is also available.

Check for the latest prince at:
KEEN | REI | Amazon

8. Columbia Bugaboot Plus IV XTM Omni-Heat Winter Boots

Columbia makes many varieties of Bugaboots, but we think the the Plus IV XTM is the best model for winter hiking if you have really cold feet. The Plus IV has 600 grams of insulation and is rated down to -65F. A wraparound waterproof rand provides good lateral protection, while a robust toe cap and heel cup work well with microspikes and other traction aids. An arched mid sole and front gaiter clip ensure gaiter compatibility, while a padded tongue and collar provide all day comfort. The extra tall cuff also helps seal in heat. The fit runs slightly wide, so these are a good option for people with larger feet. A women's model is also available.

Check for the latest prince at:
REI | Amazon | Zappos

9. La Sportiva Nepal EVO GTX Mountaineering Boots

While most winter hikers use lightweight insulated hiking boots with microspikes for traction, there are times when a stiff-soled mountaineering boot and full mountaineering crampons are required. The La Sportiva Nepal Evo is a single skin leather mountaineering boot lined with Gore-Tex Duratherm, a lightweight and waterproof insulation layer. They have a rigid TPU last and innovative lace locks so you can get the lacing tight enough to front point with crampons. An integrated mini gaiter helps seal the top of the boots for greater warmth and keeps out debris, while front and rear welts enable compatibility with all crampon types.

Check for the latest prince at:
REI | Amazon | Zappos

10. Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro GTX Boot

The Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro GTX  is a waterproof mountaineering boot with an integrated gaiter like the La Sportiva Nepal Evo GTX, listed above. It's insulated with Gore-Tex Comfort, another waterproof breathable liner layer. It has a sturdy PU midsole and nylon shank for rigidity and shock absorption, with front and rear lugs that provide universal crampon compatibility. The fit runs wide and has a large toe box, while all-metal lacing hardware lets you lock in a good fit for front pointing. A women's model is also available.

Check for the latest prince at:
REI | Moosejaw | Amazon

How to Select Winter Hiking Boots

Winter boots should be waterproof and insulated to keep your feet dry and warm, they should have laces, they should be comfortable so you can wear them all day, and they should be compatible with traction aids like microspikes and snowshoes. While the amount of insulation you need will vary, winter boots with non-removable synthetic insulation are the lightest weight and therefore the easiest to hike in. Boots made with synthetic materials are also lighter weight and more waterproof than leather boots.

The reason you can't use your regular 3 season boots or shoes for winter hiking,  comes down to waterproofing and insulation. Most insulated winter hiking boots are guaranteed waterproof out of the box. Many have lowers made with rubber or waterproof synthetics so you don't have to worry about the fabric absorbing water. If you do get moisture in your boots, insulated winter boots will still keep them warm. The same can't be said about leather hiking boots, even when treated with waterproofing creams and sprays. If your regular hiking boots absorb water in winter, they can freeze and lead to frostbite.

Some boot manufacturers provide temperature ratings for their products, but there's no standard way for measuring the warmth of winter boots. Understand that these ratings are eastimates at best and that users will have varying experiences based on their activity level, health, weight, sex, metabolism, and other factors.

Some winter boot manufacturers publish the amount of insulation in their boots, while others don't. For example, some boots have 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation, a popular synthetic insulation, while others have 400 grams. All of the boots listed above have 400 grams of insulation or the equivalent, so they can used well below zero. This is the amount of insulation we recommend if you hike in the backcountry, where winter hikes may last far longer than anticipated.

Key Winter Boot Features

Temperature rating: While you need to take manufacturer's temperature ratings with a grain of salt, they are a good indication of the relative warmth of a boot. While it's difficult to make warmth comparisons between boots that have different kinds of insulation, knowing the amount of insulation used in boots can help you compare the warmth of different models made by the same manufacturer.

Gusseted tongue: This is just like a regular boot tongue, except the sides are closed and sewn to side of the boots to prevent water from leaking into the boot when you step in puddles.

Reinforced toe cap: In addition to providing more protection, a beefy toe cap won't collapse the front of the boot when worn with microspikes or crampons.

Lugs: The soles of your boots should provide good traction when walking on loose or packed snow. Look for boots with a deep tread like a Vibram sole, although you're likely to augment your boot with microspikes.

Cuff:  Looks for boots with a soft cuff that closes off the gap between your leg and boot.

Gaiter ring: A gaiter ring is a small ring attached to the top of the boot that you can hook your gaiters onto. It's not the end of the world if your boots don't have one since can still hook the gaiter to your boot laces.

See Also:

• Insulated Winter Hiking Boot FAQ
• The Best Boots for Winter Hiking

Check Out All of SectionHiker's Gear Guides!

• 10 Best Hiking Boots and Trail Shoes of 2018
• 10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2018
• 10 Best Backpacking Stoves of 2018
• 10 Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2018
• 10 Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2018
• 10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilts of 2018
• 10 Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2018
• 10 Best Backpacking Rain Jackets of 2018
• 10 Best Budget Backpacking Tents under $250
• 10 Best One Person Backpacking Tents of 2018
• 10 Best Ventilated Backpacks of 2018
• 10 Best Hiking Daypacks of 2018
• 10 Best Hiking Pants of 2018
• 10 Best Trekking Poles of 2018

Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support SectionHiker's unsponsored gear reviews, articles, and hiking guides.

The post 10 Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2018-2019 appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.

from Section Hikers Backpacking Blog https://ift.tt/2PwlWol

What is Amazon KDP Publishing? (And How to Start)

These days, self-publishing is a legit business. Budding authors all over the world are creating a monthly income through self-publishing books on Amazon. The cool thing is it’s opened a new way of creating income that was barely possible even ten years ago. Want to write your own book and get it published, yup you […]

The post What is Amazon KDP Publishing? (And How to Start) appeared first on Location Rebel.

from Location Rebel https://ift.tt/2RuE7Z1

What is Amazon KDP Publishing? (And How to Start)

These days, self-publishing is a legit business. Budding authors all over the world are creating a monthly income through self-publishing books on Amazon. The cool thing is it's opened a new way of creating income that was barely possible even ten years ago. Want to write your own book and get it published, yup you […]

The post What is Amazon KDP Publishing? (And How to Start) appeared first on Location Rebel.

from Location Rebel https://ift.tt/2RuE7Z1

IndieView with Judge Marylin E. Atkins, author of The Triumph of Rosemary

The takeaway from my story is that if you keep working and believing in yourself, challenges can be overcome and a happy, productive, peaceful life can be the result.

Judge Marylin E. Atkins – 30 October 2018

The Back Flap

Baby Rosemary – born to an Italian teen and a married black man in Detroit in 1946 – is adopted from an agency by a black couple in Saginaw, Michigan The adoptive mother's abuse instills in the girl, whom they name Marylin Elnora, ambition to achieve great things on her own. At age 19, Marylin sparks a racial and religious scandal by marrying former Roman Catholic priest Thomas Lee Atkins, who is white and 25 years older. Poor in finances but rich in love, they have two biracial daughters, Elizabeth Ann Atkins and Catherine Marie Atkins Greenspan, who look white. Team work makes the family's dream work as Marylin attends the University of Detroit School of Law at night while she and Tom work full time; he becomes "Mr. Mom"– taking the high-achieving girls to lessons for swim, piano, and skiing. He journals nightly, inspiring the girls' passion for reading and writing.

All the while, family rifts in the wake of their interracial union begin to heal, fostering harmony and healing. The family's lifestyle includes friendships and associations with people of a cornucopia of race, religion, and culture, as Tom even serves as president of an American Indian association.

Marylin becomes an attorney, putting the girls through the University of Michigan. Sadly, Tom dies before seeing the girls earn graduate degrees in writing from Columbia University and University of San Francisco. And he never saw Marylin's illustrious and highly respected career as a judge, which included 12 years as chief judge of Detroit's 36th District Court.

About the book

What is the book about?

The book is a memoir about my life.

When did you start writing the book?

I began writing my book on December 19,2016, the day that would have been my 50th wedding anniversary if my husband were still alive.

How long did it take you to write it?

I finished writing my book on May 19, 2017, six months later.

Where did you get the idea from?

My daughters had been encouraging me to write my life story for many years. Five years after I retired, I decided to do it.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

There were no parts that I struggled with but during the process I sometimes laughed and cried as I recalled both the good and bad things I experienced throughout my life.

What came easily?

It all came easily. Not only did events come rushing back in chronological order but also in vivid detail. I wrote daily for about ten to twelve hours. I attribute my recall ability which I have had all my life, to my having to memorize thirty-two page piano sonatas composed by Beethoven and many other classical composers as a child and teenager taking piano lessons.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

All the characters in my book are real people who were in my life. Some names have been changed.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I was not influenced by any writers. Since my book is a personal, individual story, I decided that I would just share my life with the readers as if I was in a conversation with them. For clarity and to show the readers how I changed with each life experience, I decided that strict chronological order of events was the best way to write.

Do you have a target reader?

I believe that my story is for anyone who has faced challenges in life that sometimes seemed insurmountable. The takeaway from my story is that if you keep working and believing in yourself, challenges can be overcome and a happy, productive, peaceful life can be the result.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

This is the first book I have even written. I am a retired judge and I have been a lawyer for thirty-eight years. So before my book, my writing was confined to legal research and judicial opinions. Legal writing consists of an orderly chronology of events upon which a judge can find the facts. I did incorporate that process in my writing but I'm not sure it would be considered a writing "process" in the world of authors who write books all the time.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I did not outline. I simply recalled in my head what happened to me from the beginning of my life and career until I retired. For example, I thought about myself at age ten and picked out three important events I that experienced during that year that helped shape me into the adult that I became.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?

I edited after each paragraph to make sure that I was conveying the information to the reader in a way that they would understand and not have to figure out what I was trying to say.

Did you hire a professional editor?

My daughters' writing and publishing company, Two Sister Writing and Publishing, provided the professional editing and publishing.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

I mostly listened to Sirius Satellite Radio, Soul Town station which is all 60's music from Motown. I also listened to their channel that plays classical music

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

I did not submit my work to agents.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

I decided to publish with my daughters' company because I respect them and trust them as professionals.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

Yes, my daughters' company hired a full-service graphic design agency to create my book cover. The idea for the layout and design, however, were my own.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

Yes, I have hired JKS Communications.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Follow your heart.

About You

Where did you grow up?

Saginaw, Michigan.

Where do you live now?

Detroit, Michigan.

What would you like readers to know about you?

That I have been a fighter all my life for myself and my family.

What are you working on now?

Enjoying my retirement!

End of Interview:

Get your copy of The Triumph of Rosemary from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

from The IndieView https://ift.tt/2RqauYO

IndieView with Judge Marylin E. Atkins, author of The Triumph of Rosemary

The takeaway from my story is that if you keep working and believing in yourself, challenges can be overcome and a happy, productive, peaceful life can be the result.

Judge Marylin E. Atkins – 30 October 2018

The Back Flap

Baby Rosemary – born to an Italian teen and a married black man in Detroit in 1946 – is adopted from an agency by a black couple in Saginaw, Michigan The adoptive mother’s abuse instills in the girl, whom they name Marylin Elnora, ambition to achieve great things on her own. At age 19, Marylin sparks a racial and religious scandal by marrying former Roman Catholic priest Thomas Lee Atkins, who is white and 25 years older. Poor in finances but rich in love, they have two biracial daughters, Elizabeth Ann Atkins and Catherine Marie Atkins Greenspan, who look white. Team work makes the family’s dream work as Marylin attends the University of Detroit School of Law at night while she and Tom work full time; he becomes “Mr. Mom”– taking the high-achieving girls to lessons for swim, piano, and skiing. He journals nightly, inspiring the girls’ passion for reading and writing.

All the while, family rifts in the wake of their interracial union begin to heal, fostering harmony and healing. The family’s lifestyle includes friendships and associations with people of a cornucopia of race, religion, and culture, as Tom even serves as president of an American Indian association.

Marylin becomes an attorney, putting the girls through the University of Michigan. Sadly, Tom dies before seeing the girls earn graduate degrees in writing from Columbia University and University of San Francisco. And he never saw Marylin’s illustrious and highly respected career as a judge, which included 12 years as chief judge of Detroit’s 36th District Court.

About the book

What is the book about?

The book is a memoir about my life.

When did you start writing the book?

I began writing my book on December 19,2016, the day that would have been my 50th wedding anniversary if my husband were still alive.

How long did it take you to write it?

I finished writing my book on May 19, 2017, six months later.

Where did you get the idea from?

My daughters had been encouraging me to write my life story for many years. Five years after I retired, I decided to do it.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

There were no parts that I struggled with but during the process I sometimes laughed and cried as I recalled both the good and bad things I experienced throughout my life.

What came easily?

It all came easily. Not only did events come rushing back in chronological order but also in vivid detail. I wrote daily for about ten to twelve hours. I attribute my recall ability which I have had all my life, to my having to memorize thirty-two page piano sonatas composed by Beethoven and many other classical composers as a child and teenager taking piano lessons.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

All the characters in my book are real people who were in my life. Some names have been changed.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

I was not influenced by any writers. Since my book is a personal, individual story, I decided that I would just share my life with the readers as if I was in a conversation with them. For clarity and to show the readers how I changed with each life experience, I decided that strict chronological order of events was the best way to write.

Do you have a target reader?

I believe that my story is for anyone who has faced challenges in life that sometimes seemed insurmountable. The takeaway from my story is that if you keep working and believing in yourself, challenges can be overcome and a happy, productive, peaceful life can be the result.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

This is the first book I have even written. I am a retired judge and I have been a lawyer for thirty-eight years. So before my book, my writing was confined to legal research and judicial opinions. Legal writing consists of an orderly chronology of events upon which a judge can find the facts. I did incorporate that process in my writing but I’m not sure it would be considered a writing “process” in the world of authors who write books all the time.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I did not outline. I simply recalled in my head what happened to me from the beginning of my life and career until I retired. For example, I thought about myself at age ten and picked out three important events I that experienced during that year that helped shape me into the adult that I became.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I edited after each paragraph to make sure that I was conveying the information to the reader in a way that they would understand and not have to figure out what I was trying to say.

Did you hire a professional editor?

My daughters’ writing and publishing company, Two Sister Writing and Publishing, provided the professional editing and publishing.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

I mostly listened to Sirius Satellite Radio, Soul Town station which is all 60’s music from Motown. I also listened to their channel that plays classical music

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

I did not submit my work to agents.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

I decided to publish with my daughters’ company because I respect them and trust them as professionals.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

Yes, my daughters’ company hired a full-service graphic design agency to create my book cover. The idea for the layout and design, however, were my own.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

Yes, I have hired JKS Communications.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Follow your heart.

About You

Where did you grow up?

Saginaw, Michigan.

Where do you live now?

Detroit, Michigan.

What would you like readers to know about you?

That I have been a fighter all my life for myself and my family.

What are you working on now?

Enjoying my retirement!

End of Interview:

Get your copy of The Triumph of Rosemary from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

from The IndieView https://ift.tt/2RqauYO

Backpacking a Carter Dome Wild River Loop Trip Plan: Backpacking the White Mountain 4000 Footers Guidebook

Carter Dome is the ninth tallest White Mountain 4000 footer with an elevation of 4832 feet. It's located almost due east of Mount Washington and has the distinction of being the highest mountain in the Carter Moriah Range. Most of the peakbaggers who climb Carter Dome approach it from the east and climb to the summit via Zeta Pass.

This Carter Dome route takes a less-travelled approach and climbs the summit from the west, before descending to the Wild River Wilderness and looping back through Perkins Notch. One of the highlights of this route is the open summit of the South Knob of Carter Dome, which at 4274 ft, is a 4000 footer in its own right, even though it's not listed on the official AMC 4000 footer list. It has an excellent view of Mt Washington, which makes up for the viewless Carter Dome summit. From Carter Dome, the route drops back into the Wild River Wilderness down the Black Angel Trail, one of the prettiest and most remote trails in the Whites. This loop is especially beautiful to hike in early October when the leaves begin to change color.

Carter Dome Wild River Loop Backpacking Trip Plan

• GPX File (Download) – Trails only

Rating/Difficulty

****/4 out of 5

Distance/Elevation Gain

21 miles with 4400′ of elevation gain

White Mountain 4000 Footers

• Carter Dome

Recommended Duration

2-3 days

Season

June thru October

Permits Required

None.

Regulations

Backcountry Camping Regulations for the White Mountain National Forest.

New to the White Mountains? Read this Quick and Dirty Guide to Backpacking in the White Mountains for information about camping regulations, road access, trail shuttles, lodging, dangerous wildlife, weather, etc.

Trailhead Directions

• Bog Brook Trailhead – Follow Carter Notch Road 5.4 miles from the junction of NH16B and NH16A in Jackson, NH. This turns into a gravel road at it approaches the end of the road. Pass by a large parking lot on your left at the top end of Carter Notch Rd, and continue down a short hill onto FR 233 for about half a mile, passing a back woods shack (we call them camps) labelled "Camp Gout." The Bog Brook Trailhead parking area will be on your right shortly.

Trail Sequence

The route follows the following trails in sequence. Refer to the AMC White Mountains Trail Maps 5-6: Carter-Range-Evans Notch North Country-Mahoosuc (2017 ed),  although I'd recommend buying the complete AMC White Mountain Waterproof Map Set (2017 ed) rather than one map at a time, because it's less expensive that way. Detailed trail descriptions can also be found in the AMC White Mountain Guide (2017 ed), which is considered the hiking bible for the region. Take photos of the relevant pages using your phone for easy reference, instead of carrying the entire book with you on hikes.

• Bog Brook Trail – 2.8 miles
• Wild River Trail – 0.7 miles
• Rainbow Trail – 3.5 miles
• Carter Moriah Trail – 0.4 miles
• Black Angel Trail – 4.9 miles
• Wild River Trail – 5.8 miles
• Bog Brook Trail 2.8 miles

Scenic Highlights

The following list provides cumulative distances on the route to each view or landmark.

• Rainbow Trail Birch Tree Grove – 3.5 miles
• South Knob of Carter Dome Summit and Viewpoint – 6.0 miles
• Carter Dome Summit – 7.0 miles
• Wild River Trail Junction – 12.3 miles
• Spruce Brook Tentsite – 13.1 miles
• No Ketchum Pond – 16.5 miles
• Perkins Notch Tentsite – 17 miles

Camping and Shelter Options

• USFS Spruce Brook Campsite (Free) – pressed earth tent pads, water
• USFS Perkins Notch Campsite (Free) – pressed earth tent pads, water

Water

Natural water sources are plentiful in the White Mountains although you may need to descend to them from ridgelines along side trails if you run short. In any case, carry a detailed topographic map with you and don't rely on the overview map provided with this trip description to find water sources.

I also recommend purchasing the WMNF Wild River Map in Guthook Guide's New England Hiker Smartphone App (IOS, Android) which is a GPS guide to all of the trails, trailhead, shelters, campsites, views, and water sources in the White Mountains National Forest. I use it all the time and it is much more complete and current than using the maps bundled with the Gaia Smartphone App.

Note: There is no water from the north end of the Bog Brook Trail until about half way down the Black Angel Trail along this route and you may want to carry a bit extra.

On the Trail

Begin at the Bog Brook Trail trailhead. There are three water crossing in the first two miles that are usually rock hopable, but may be difficult to cross in high water. You can also bypass them by following the gated FR 233 road to the intersection of the Bog Brook trail with the road. While slightly longer, your feet will stay dry. I'd recommend staying on the trail though, since it is quite pretty and the road walk is boring.

All of the brook crossings are rock hopable although they may be challenging in high water.

Merge onto the Wild River Trail for a short distance until you come to the Rainbow Trail Junction.

Merge onto the Wild River Trail and hike through open forest

Turn left onto the Rainbow Trail and follow it through a grove of birch trees and berry bushes (in the summer months) which are popular with moose and bear. Most of the birch trees are dead due to climate change and disease, but are quite a sight nonetheless. If you're concerned about a large animal encounter, make a lot of noise and hike with a partner or small group. The animals are afraid of you and will leave the area if you alert them to your presence.

Hike through a large birch tree grove

Continue ascending through scrappy woods until you reach the open summit of the South Knob of Carter Dome, also referred to as South Carter Dome. On a sunny day, you can clearly see Mt Washington and its glacial cirques, Tuckerman Ravine and Huntington Ravine ,to the west.

Great View of Mt Washington from the Rainbow Trail and the Summit of South Carter Dome

Proceed through the summit krummholz (dwarf trees) for an additional mile to the open summit of Carter Dome. The site of an old fire tower, you can still see the tower foundations and find assorted historical debris from when it was taken down, in the nearby woods. One man's trash is another man's treasure: these items are considered archeological artifacts and it is against the law to disturb or remove them.

The old fire tower foundations are still visible on the Carter Dome summit

From the summit trail junction, hike north along the Carter Moriah Trail towards Mt Hight. Turn right onto the Black Angel Trail after 0.4 miles before you reach Hight and descend for 4.9 miles down to the Wild River Trail.

The Black Angel Trail enters the Wild River Wilderness

The Black Angel Trail is considered to be one of the most beautiful trails in a region full of beautiful trails. Most of it is easy hiking, but there are a few rock scrambles along the top of the trail which can sketchy if the rocks are wet or covered with ice. The trail crosses into the Wild River Wilderness shortly after leaving the Carter Moriah Trail and while it is lightly blazed, the trail can be more difficult to follow in autumn when leaves cover the obvious trail tread.

The Wild River Trail runs next to the river.

When you reach the Wild River Trail, the path follows closely beside the upper reaches of the river to its source in No Ketchum Pond. They say that the wild trout fishing along this section of river is out of this world. It's also takes a heck of a walk to get to, which probably keeps the fishery so vibrant and wild.

The Spruce Brook Tentsite has pressed earth tent pads

In 0.8 miles, you'll reach the Spruce Brook Tentsite spur trail which climbs steeply uphill to several packed earth tent pads. The fire ring is located near the entrance sign along the Wild River Trail, down where the old lean-to used to be before it was removed. The pads are spaced widely apart and there's plenty of privacy. If you plan to hike the route in two days, this is an excellent place to stop for the night.

Recent trail maintenance has great improved the western end of the Wild River Trail

Continue south along the Wild River Trail, crossing a stream just beyond the Spruce Brook Tentsite. It is rock hopable, although you may want to hike upstream a bit to find an easier crossing point. Continue past the Eagle Link Trail Junction, following old logging skid roads and over newly constructed bog bridges. Passing the East Branch Trail Junction, just before another stream crossing. No Ketchum Pond will soon come into view on your right, followed by the Perkins Notch Tentsite on your left.

Perkins Notch Tentsite

Continuing east along the Wild River trail, you'll soon arrive at the Rainbow Trail junction you passed previously before climbing up to Carter Dome. Retrace your steps from the previous day along the Wild River and Bog Brook Trails back to the trailhead parking lot.

About Philip Werner: Philip is the 36th person to finish hiking and backpacking all of the trails in the White Mountain Guide (1440 miles). He's also finished hiking many of the region's peakbagging lists including the White Mountain 4000 footers, the 4000 footers in Winter, the Terrifying 25, the RMC 100, and the Trailwrights 72. Philip is a 4 season backpacking leader for the Appalachian Mountain Club, a member of the executive committee for the Random Hikers, a Long Trail Mentor for Vermont's Green Mountain Club, and a Leave No Trace Master Educator. He also teaches several compass, GPS, and off-trail navigation courses each year, listed on Outdoors.org.

Safety Disclaimer

This trip plan can not alert you to every hazard, anticipate your experience, or limitations. Therefore, the descriptions of roads, trails, routes, shelters, tent sites, and natural features in this trip plan are not representations that a particular place or excursion will be safe for you or members of your party. When you follow any of the routes described on SectionHiker.com, you assume responsibility for your own safety. Under normal conditions, such excursions require the usual attention to traffic, road and trail conditions, weather, terrain, the capabilities of your party, and other factors. Always check for current conditions, obey posted signs, and Backcountry Camping and Wilderness Area Regulations. Hike Safe and follow the Hiker responsibility code. 

Published 2018.

Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support SectionHiker's unsponsored gear reviews, articles, and hiking guides.

The post Backpacking a Carter Dome Wild River Loop Trip Plan: Backpacking the White Mountain 4000 Footers Guidebook appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.

from Section Hikers Backpacking Blog https://ift.tt/2DbdDsg

KEEN Summit County Winter Hiking Boots Review

KEEN Summit County Winter Hiking Boots are waterproof and insulated winter boots that are good for snowshoeing, winter hiking, and peakbagging. They have KEEN's signature oversized toe box with body-mapped insulation to keep the parts of your feet that need extra insulation warm. Large non-marking lugged rubber soles provide a good grip on soft and packed snow, while the boots pair well with traction aids such as microspikes or snowshoes for hiking across ice and snow. The Summit County winter boots run a bit wide, so you should try them if have problems finding shoes wide enough for your feet.

If you've never worn KEEN shoes or boots before, the toe-box is wider than you're probably used to. This is good for winter hiking because your toes and feet will stay warmer if blood can circulate easily through them. KEEN insulates the Summit County with 450 grams of insulation around the toes and foot and 300 grams in the uppers where you need less, since your ankle is covered by long pants and a heavy winter gaiter. The effect on toe warmth is immediately noticeable and makes the boot very comfortable to wear. KEEN insulates and waterproofs their boots with KEEN.WARM and KEEN.DRY, their in-house proprietary synthetic insulation and waterproof breathable membrane instead of licensing Thinsulate insulation or Gore-Tex membrane. It doesn't make any noticeable difference and helps keep the price down.

You'll probably wear high winter gaiters with these boots for most of your winter hiking.

The upper part of the boot is eight and a half inches tall which is a good height to keep snow out of your boots and your ankles warm. The upper cuff and tongue provide good support but are still comfortable to wear, unlike more rigid mountaineering boots. The exterior of the Summit County is well protected with synthetic leather and heavy-duty side walls to keep rock and ice from bruising your feet. The oversized toe bumper is firm enough that you can kick into snow for more traction, while a rigid heel cap protects the back of your foot with ridges that help secure microspikes and snowshoe bindings.

The boot sole has widely space lugs that provide excellent traction and don't fill up with snow like a regular vibram tread. The have a slight arch that permits use with a gaiter, although there isn't a front gaiter ring, so you'll have to clip them to your laces. The boots have a slight interior arch and fit more like running shoes than hiking boots. They come with a heat reflective insole covered with wool for comfort, but you can easily replace it with a Superfeet insole if you prefer more arch support. The midsole is made with a firm EVA foam to provide shock absorption and cushioning, while helping reduce the occurrence of plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, posterior tibial tendonitis and most other conditions related to excessive pronation.

The laces thread through cloth channels along the sides of the tongue and not more durable metal eyelets. There are two pairs of metal speed hooks at the top of the uppers and its possible to tie more advanced lacing patterns like heel locks, surgeon's knots, and lacing windows without any issues.

Keen Summit County Winter Hiking Boots – the sides of the boot are well protected against ice and rock.

The KEEN Summit County Winter hiking boots are true to size, but run slightly wide, so I wear them with a thicker wool sock to take up some of the extra interior wiggle. While they're reasonably lightweight at xx per pair, they are pretty chunky boots, although you quickly get used to walking in them. While they are soft out of the box and require virtually no break-in period, I do recommend you wear them for a few off-pavement hikes before taking them out for an all day hike. Hiking on uneven terrain stresses different parts of a shoe than walking on sidewalks and will help you develop the proper "boot-feel" to give you confidence in the boots when you do venture off the beaten track.

Highly recommended!

Compare 3 Prices

• 

  Amazon US

  $160.00

  View
• 

  KEEN Footwear

  $160.00

  View
• 

  REI.com

  $160.00

  View

Last updated: 2018-10-29 03:52:07

Keen Footwear provided the author with boots for this review.

Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support SectionHiker's unsponsored gear reviews, articles, and hiking guides.

The post KEEN Summit County Winter Hiking Boots Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.

from Section Hikers Backpacking Blog https://ift.tt/2AwYLSn

IndieView with Patrick W. Picciarelli, author of Blood Shot Eyes

Writing has always been a passion. I write what I know. Having spent 20 years in the NYPD, and more years than I care to admit working as a PI, I’m also a Vietnam combat veteran, and teach in a local university. I have more than enough material to work with.

Patrick W. Picciarelli – 26 October 2018

The Back Flap

A ten-year-old double homicide leads private investigator Ray Yale to a psycho ex-policewoman, a megalomaniacal shock-jock with a Svengali complex, and an investigation so bizarre that it could bring down the NYPD. Teamed with a former detective who has seen better days, Yale must find the reason behind a series of brutal murders before he becomes the next victim.

The first Ray Yale novel, Blood Shot Eyes mixes mystery and suspense in chronicling Yale’s determined pursuit of justice. Yale’s journey continues in the sequel, Pop Line.

About the book

What is the book about?

Private Investigator Ray Yale, formerly a lieutenant with the NYPD, is hired to find the killer of a 20-something party girl, a murder which remains unsolved after 10 years. During the course of the investigation, Yale connects with retired detective Charlie Wright, now suffering from AIDS and under a self-imposed exile from society. The trail leads to a megalomaniacal NY radio shock-jock with a Svengali complex and a psychopathic former policewoman who does his bidding. Yale must find the reason behind a series of brutal murders before he becomes the next victim.

When did you start writing the book?

Shortly after my retirement from the NYPD.

How long did it take you to write it?

Six months.

Where did you get the idea from?

The story is based on a case I handled after I left the NYPD and became a private investigator in New York.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

This was my first novel, but because of the link to a real case I’d handled, I didn’t experience any struggles.

What came easily?

Pretty much everything. The characters are based on real people, so it was like a stroll down memory lane, with more drama added.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

Virtually every major character in the book is based on a real person, some of whom were directly involved in the case I’d investigated.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

There are so many, but those writers that rise to the top are Lawrence Block and John Sandford. Both have an excellent ear for dialogue; Block in his Matt Scudder series, and Sandford for his Lucas Davenport series. The Scudder series is centered in Manhattan, which comes alive as a character, and the Minnesota-based cop Davenport’s dialogue with his fellow cops is the way cops really talk – this observation coming from me, a former NYPD lieutenant.

Do you have a target reader?

Readers of gritty crime fiction will enjoy this story for its reality-based investigative techniques and colorful characters. Extra points if you’re a New Yorker.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

I set a goal of a minimum goal of 1,000 words a day, five days a week.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I use a basic outline – a beginning, middle, and end – and go where the story takes me. Often my completed book has scant resemblance to my outline.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I don’t edit until I’m finished with a rough draft, unless I recognize a glaring error.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

No, I need absolute quiet and isolation.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

I’ve had the same agent for 18 years.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

The books in the Ray Yale series are stories I wrote at the beginning of my writing career. I resurrected them, deciding to go with the indie publisher route to experiment with that option.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

I designed it myself but had someone who knows computer graphics bring it to life.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I have a decent following from previously published books, so I’ll approach those readers, along with public speaking and social media venues. I’ll also experiment as I go along.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Have your work professionally edited. Very important.

About You

Where did you grow up?

New York City.

Where do you live now?

South Western Pennsylvania.

What would you like readers to know about you?

Writing has always been a passion. I write what I know. Having spent 20 years in the NYPD, and more years than I care to admit working as a PI, I’m also a Vietnam combat veteran, and teach in a local university. I have more than enough material to work with.

What are you working on now?

My next book, which I co-authored with actor Gianni Russo, Hollywood Godfather: My life in the Movies and the Mob, will be published by St. Martin’s Press on March 12, 2019. Because I’m currently finishing up my doctorate in criminal justice, I have abandoned commercial writing until May 2019, when I’m scheduled to graduate. I plan on continuing with book #3 in the Ray Yale series, and completing my novel in progress, The Crowed Hour.

End of Interview:

Get your copy of Blood Shot Eyes from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

from The IndieView https://ift.tt/2EJAGfn

IndieView with Patrick W. Picciarelli, author of Blood Shot Eyes

Writing has always been a passion. I write what I know. Having spent 20 years in the NYPD, and more years than I care to admit working as a PI, I'm also a Vietnam combat veteran, and teach in a local university. I have more than enough material to work with.

Patrick W. Picciarelli – 26 October 2018

The Back Flap

A ten-year-old double homicide leads private investigator Ray Yale to a psycho ex-policewoman, a megalomaniacal shock-jock with a Svengali complex, and an investigation so bizarre that it could bring down the NYPD. Teamed with a former detective who has seen better days, Yale must find the reason behind a series of brutal murders before he becomes the next victim.

The first Ray Yale novel, Blood Shot Eyes mixes mystery and suspense in chronicling Yale's determined pursuit of justice. Yale's journey continues in the sequel, Pop Line.

About the book

What is the book about?

Private Investigator Ray Yale, formerly a lieutenant with the NYPD, is hired to find the killer of a 20-something party girl, a murder which remains unsolved after 10 years. During the course of the investigation, Yale connects with retired detective Charlie Wright, now suffering from AIDS and under a self-imposed exile from society. The trail leads to a megalomaniacal NY radio shock-jock with a Svengali complex and a psychopathic former policewoman who does his bidding. Yale must find the reason behind a series of brutal murders before he becomes the next victim.

When did you start writing the book?

Shortly after my retirement from the NYPD.

How long did it take you to write it?

Six months.

Where did you get the idea from?

The story is based on a case I handled after I left the NYPD and became a private investigator in New York.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

This was my first novel, but because of the link to a real case I'd handled, I didn't experience any struggles.

What came easily?

Pretty much everything. The characters are based on real people, so it was like a stroll down memory lane, with more drama added.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

Virtually every major character in the book is based on a real person, some of whom were directly involved in the case I'd investigated.

We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?

There are so many, but those writers that rise to the top are Lawrence Block and John Sandford. Both have an excellent ear for dialogue; Block in his Matt Scudder series, and Sandford for his Lucas Davenport series. The Scudder series is centered in Manhattan, which comes alive as a character, and the Minnesota-based cop Davenport's dialogue with his fellow cops is the way cops really talk – this observation coming from me, a former NYPD lieutenant.

Do you have a target reader?

Readers of gritty crime fiction will enjoy this story for its reality-based investigative techniques and colorful characters. Extra points if you're a New Yorker.

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?

I set a goal of a minimum goal of 1,000 words a day, five days a week.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I use a basic outline – a beginning, middle, and end – and go where the story takes me. Often my completed book has scant resemblance to my outline.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?

I don't edit until I'm finished with a rough draft, unless I recognize a glaring error.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

No, I need absolute quiet and isolation.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

I've had the same agent for 18 years.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

The books in the Ray Yale series are stories I wrote at the beginning of my writing career. I resurrected them, deciding to go with the indie publisher route to experiment with that option.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

I designed it myself but had someone who knows computer graphics bring it to life.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I have a decent following from previously published books, so I'll approach those readers, along with public speaking and social media venues. I'll also experiment as I go along.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Have your work professionally edited. Very important.

About You

Where did you grow up?

New York City.

Where do you live now?

South Western Pennsylvania.

What would you like readers to know about you?

Writing has always been a passion. I write what I know. Having spent 20 years in the NYPD, and more years than I care to admit working as a PI, I'm also a Vietnam combat veteran, and teach in a local university. I have more than enough material to work with.

What are you working on now?

My next book, which I co-authored with actor Gianni Russo, Hollywood Godfather: My life in the Movies and the Mob, will be published by St. Martin's Press on March 12, 2019. Because I'm currently finishing up my doctorate in criminal justice, I have abandoned commercial writing until May 2019, when I'm scheduled to graduate. I plan on continuing with book #3 in the Ray Yale series, and completing my novel in progress, The Crowed Hour.

End of Interview:

Get your copy of Blood Shot Eyes from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

from The IndieView https://ift.tt/2EJAGfn

REI Merino Midweight Baselayer Top Review

I buy a lot of cold-weather hiking clothes through REI because they sell high quality clothing that's just as good as what you can buy from Smartwool or Patagucci, but for less money. REI doesn't have to advertise their products, so they can pass the savings to consumers and members. You don't have to be a member to buy REI clothes, but you do get an 10% end of year rebate on them which doesn't hurt.

I recently bought several REI Merino Midweight Baselayer Tops and have been wearing them frequently since. They're surprisingly warm and have become my goto layer around the campsite and when I'm sleeping outdoors this autumn. I bought these shirts on sale for 50% off and they're still on sale if you want to snag a few.

Merino baselayers are more odor resistant than synthetic baselayers, which is a big advantage for backpacking if you're out for a few days at a time. These shirts are made with an ultrafine merino wool that is soft to the touch. They don't require any special care. I wash and dry them with my regular colored clothes and they don't shrink, which can be a problem with some wool shirts.

They have flat seams to eliminate chafing and have a droptail hem that's designed to work with a backpack hip belt and stay tucked into your waistband if that's what you want. The underarms are gusetted to allow for full range of movement when climbing or scrambling, or working in the yard.

The REI Midweight merino shirts are the equivalent of a 200 (gram) fabric in Smartwool's way of classifying the warmth of their garments. At 200 grams, it's warmer than a 150 gram Merino baselayer that I prefer for highly aerobic hiking, like climbing a mountain with a backpack, even in cold weather. But it's ideal, for sitting around camp on cool nights when I'm less active, sleeping in a cold weather sleeping bag, or sorting through my firewood pile outdoors.

If you can get a REI Merino Midweight Baselayer Top on sale, it's a good deal. Even at full price, REI's Merino and Synthetic baselayer tops are less expensive that equivalent garments from major brands and just as good. Hell, they're probably made in the same factories in Vietnam.

Compare 4 Prices

• 

  REI.com

  $11.95 $6.73

  View
• 

  Amazon US

  $12.97

  View
• 

  REI.com

  $79.50

  View
• 

  REI.com

  $79.50

  View
• 

  REI.com

  $89.50

  View
• 

  REI.com

  $89.50

  View

Last updated: 2018-10-26 03:50:04

Disclosure: The author purchased this product.

Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support SectionHiker's unsponsored gear reviews, articles, and hiking guides.

The post REI Merino Midweight Baselayer Top Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.

from Section Hikers Backpacking Blog https://ift.tt/2OTQOiX