Noonmark Diner is a small, homey wayside staple for cheap, local eats in the Keene Valley. Everyone who has hiked, climbed, or skied in the Adirondacks has made a pit stop at the family owned joint. It’s the kind of place that still includes accolades from a 1993 national magazine on its menu- because, that kind of thing is important in an Upstate New York hamlet. Specifically, the praises are for their homemade pies. By my count, Noonmark Diner has nine varietals of pie:

As another year comes to a close, I am in awe of how full and rewarding the past twelve months have been. Reflecting on 2015, I couldn’t believe how much adventure and activity was packed into the year. 2016 however, has surpassed all other benchmarks. More miles were logged, more sights were seen, and a greater appreciation for all that I am fortunate to have has been cultivated. 2016 was kicked off in the best way possible. No parties, no crowds, and the only bright lig

The perfect trip for new hikers, kids, and first-time backpackers, Black Mountain is accessible, easy to navigate, and a relatively short hike for big views of Lake George and Vermont's Green Mountains. The NYSDEC trailhead off of Pine Brook Road (43.611765,-73.493109) offers ample parking and a trail register. Most visitors to this trailhead are completing the Black Mountain Out-and-Back or the circuit described in this post. The Out-and-Back variation is approximately on

The Three Ridges along the AT in Central Virginia is touted as one of the most popular circuits in the Mid-Atlantic. With frequent and expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, ample camping, and terrain that is just rugged enough to whet even die hard backpacker's need for a little challenge, it is easy to understand why this ranks as a regional favorite. At the end of 2015, Jordan, Jeff, Elisabeth and I planned to backpack the Three Ridges loop with the addition of Spy