This is the final product of Carson and Jake’s Independent Project.  On the left are links to the seven trips we made over the course of January.  On the right are are links to printable directions for each location as well as a link to current Middlebury weather and an REI checklist for backcountry adventurers.  Please leave us comments and let us know what you think.

1-easy, gradual slopes, good for beginners

2-easy, but slightly steeper, and a higher chance of obstacles

3-medium, combination to of steeper ascend/descent and denser forest

4-hard, steep slopes, high elevation, and higher frequency of obstacles

5-very difficult, steep slopes, high elevation, major obstacles such as stream crossings, rocky passages, or dense forests.

Hey everyone,

This is the first post of Carson and Jake’s January Term independent project.  Over the course of the month, the two of us will use topographical maps to find ideal mountains for backcountry snowboarding within an hour range of Middlebury College.  We will visit these locations, ascend with snowshoes, and then snowboard down.  We will use a portable GPS system to track our route, which will be uploaded onto a map for our visitors to see.  For each trip we make, we will post a blog entry providing a thorough analysis of all factors necessary for our viewers to embark on the same trips.  To date, we have completed three trips and we are hoping to end with a total of 7 or 8 locations.  We hope that our work will encourage individuals to enjoy similar experiences as our own as well as recognize the plethora of outdoor opportunities that exist within a relatively small radius.  Welco