Ha! “The following stunts have been created solely for your entertainment and are produced by trained professionals with safety equipment, so they shouldn’t be recreated.” Who are you trying to kid? I don’t see any safety equipment! Parkour takes to the high seas in this epic montage of freerunning on a cruise ship.
Author: Alan Perlman
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Marcus Kleveland, 13-Year Old, Lands Triple Cork
The youngest person to land one of the most progressive moves in snowboarding history, the triple cork, Norwegian snowboarder Marcus Kleveland is only 13 years old! Great short clip about him landing the trick.
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5 Best Mountain Biking Trails Near Las Vegas
When thinking of Las Vegas, mountain biking is probably not the first thing to come to mind. However, because of all the sweeping desert landscape and varied terrain, Las Vegas is filled with popular mountain biking trails for all experience levels. Bring lots of water with you and enjoy the ride!
1. Cottonwood Valley
Known as one of the best locations for mountain biking in Las Vegas, Cottonwood Valley is comprised of about 140 miles of singletrack trails surrounded by beautiful scenery. The Cottonwood Valley trails offer routes for all skill levels through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ride or an opportunity to explore the area, Cottonwood Valley is sure to please!
2. Blue Diamond Loop
This great 10+ mile ride is comprised of much of the Cottonwood trail system. Located in the quaint town of Blue Diamond, this trail features small drops mixed in with moderate climbs — making it a great for ride of all levels of experience.
3. Badger Pass Loop
Part of the Blue Diamond system, Badger Pass is a great trail for beginners. This singletrack ride features a steady climb that eventually takes you to fun and complex downhills.
4. Dead Horse Loop
Don’t be deceived by the modest start to the trail. Dead Horse Loop is a moderate 15 mile ride that covers a variety of terrain from loose gravel and double-track to rolling single track and sweeping plateaus. This trail simulates a roller coaster with constant ups and downs with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The loop back referred to as the 3 Mile Smile for its packed red dirt and smooth riding conditions. For riders without a GPS, the trail is also well marked.
5. Bear’s Best
Located West of Las Vegas in Summerlin, Bears Best is filled with BMX like flowing turns intermixed with patches of fun rocky obstacles and smooth trailways. The first mile of this 14.5 mile trail starts out paved then drops down into a dry water basin where the 10 mile singletrack loop then begins. It’s perfect for intermediate level riders.
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Top 6 Rock Climbing Sites Near Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a rather unique city in that it provides such a wide array of activities, both indoor and outdoor. Thanks to all the wonderful canyons and rocky landscapes as well as indoor climbing facilities, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your rock climbing fancy. Whether you’re looking for guided climbs, indoor climbs, or some decent bouldering outdoors, this list can be a great starting point.
1. Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a 197,ooo acre conservation area nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Due to its varied terrain, everything from boulders to large walls, Red Canyon has quickly become one of the most popular rock climbing sites in the Las Vegas area. Shuttles are available to pick up interested climbers from various hotels and designated pickup points and bring them to the canyon where they can learn about mountaineering and even take classes from experienced climbers.
2. Mescalito South, Cat in the Hat
Cat in the Hat, one of the most approachable peaks within the Red Rock Canyon. At first glance this peak may seem ordinary, however, Cat in the Hat is the perfect spot for new climbers looking for big belay ledges and easy repels. This route features steep walls with great cracks and broken ledges.
3. Mescalito North, Dark Shadows
This route, comprised of 4 pitches, takes approximately 2 hours to complete. This route gets its name Dark Shadows from the black, polished walls leading up to the top. In addition to the sleek walls, this route features pools of water and surrounding trees making it a unique option from other climbs within Red Canyon.
4. Dream of Wild Turkeys, Black Velvet Canyon
Another route located within Red Rock Canyon, Dream of Wild Turkeys is a great climb for returning Red Rock Canyon climbers. This route is about 3-5 hours long with 11 pitches over 1000 feet of varied terrain.
5. Red Rock Climbing Center
Located just minutes away from Red Rock National Conservation Area, Red Rock Climbing Center is known for its sandstone sport and traditional climbing. This indoor climbing facility offers over 8,000 square feet of climbing walls including top-rope and lead climbing as well as roof routes and overhangs. The wide array of routes are designed to accommodate all ages and levels of experience so that everyone can give it a try!
6. Mt. Charleston
Mt. Charleston offers great climbing terrain for the moderate to advanced climber. Located Northwest of Las Vegas within the Spring Mountains National Recreational Area, Mt. Charleston is unique for its cooler temperatures and scenic waterfalls and limestone rocks.
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Best Day Hikes Near Las Vegas
Las Vegas, conveniently located at the bottom of a basin surrounded by numerous mountain ranges, makes it the perfect stomping ground for those looking to explore the Mojave Desert. With atmospheric conditions of low humidity and rocky peaks reaching elevations above 10,000 feet, Las Vegas is a great option for hikers of varying abilities. Whether you’re already familiar with some of the trails in the area or considering hiking through the desert mountains for the first time, this list of the best day hiking trails near Las Vegas can serve as a great reference point.
1. Calico Tanks Trail
Located 16 miles outside of Las Vegas in Red Rock Canyon, Calico Tanks Trail is a great daytime adventure for hikers and they’re dogs alike. This 2.5 mile rocky trail features picturesque views of Las Vegas and the surrounding areas. This popular trail is accessible from September to May and is an enjoyable hike for all ages and levels of experience.
2. Mary Jane Falls
Mary Jane Falls is a moderately difficult trail with an elevation gain of 1040 ft. over a span of 2.4 miles total out and back. It is open to the public from March to November and features waterfalls as well as a beautiful view at the end where hikers are allowed to bring lunch and picnic together.
3. First Creek
First Creek is open from February to May and is notorious for its waterfall that is so hidden many hikers miss it. Due to the short, 3 mile flat, desert terrain, this trail is great for a quick midday hike with whole family (Fido too)!
4. Fern Canyon
Open from September to May, this 3.5 mile hike is unique from others in Las Vegas due to the abundance of ponds, creeks, lush vegetation and a seasonal waterfall at the end. Fern canyon provides a variety of trails including some that are steep and rocky and great for those who enjoy bouldering. There are numerous rest spots for lunch breaks and plenty of streams and pools to explore on the way up.
5. Ice Box Canyon Trails
The Ice Box Canyon Trails are accessible year-round and are a great option for those looking for a little bit of a challenge. These lightly trafficked trails an excellent source for wildlife sightings. Ice Box Canyon’s 2.5 mile loop is a great option for a fun, slightly more difficult, day hike.
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GoPro & Shaun White’s Halfpipe Showdown
In the summer of 2012, Shaun White and 12-year old skateboarder Tom Schaar meet up for an epic halfpipe showdown in Los Angeles, California.
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5 Best Ski Resorts Near Seattle
It’s the middle of winter. There’s nothing more fun to do on a snowy winter’s day than to break out the snow gear and head to the slopes. Seattle and the surrounding areas offer a variety of mountainous locations perfect for all skill levels and experience. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular winter destinations near Seattle to help you choose your best option this winter.
1. Alpental
Alpental has been open for over 40 years. In that time they have become legendary, and for good reason. Although it is one of the smaller ski areas, it has most of The Summit at Snoqualmie’s advanced runs. These cliffs make up the state’s toughest runs and have become internationally known.
2. Crystal Mountain
With its breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and its highly variable terrain, Crystal mountain’s got a little something for everyone. In the 2,600 acres of accessible slopes there is a little bit of everything: from well-groomed slopes for beginners and challenging chutes, steeps, bowls and glades for more advanced skiers and snowboarders.
3.Stevens Pass
Although Stevens Pass is mostly for intermediate to expert skiers, there are a few beginners runs. The snow conditions are unbeatable and the two terrain parks are suitable for shredders of all skill levels.
4. The Summit at Snoqaulmie
Just 45 minutes east of Seattle, this area offers varied terrain for all levels of experience. It features a pipe, black diamond downhills, top to bottom terrain parks, as well as beginners runs. With a convenient location and a veritable cornucopia of things to do on the slopes, The Summit at Snoqaulmie should be anyone’s vacation destination.
5. Mission Ridge
Located on the east side of the cascades, this set of peaks is the result of volcanic activity. With over 2,000 acres of bowls chutes, glades, and downhills, not to mention tons of sun and dry snow, Mission Ridge is one of the best spots to go to the snow in Washington.
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Top 5 Skateparks in Seattle
Looking to go skating in Seattle? Seattle offers a one of a kind skating experience with its outdoor parks and its focus on vert. Check out the top 5 places to skate:
1. All Together Skatepark
This park is a collective project by skaters, for skaters. When Seattle’s biggest indoor skate park shut down in 2012, Skaters had no place to go on rainy days. In 2013, ATS opened up and is now Seattle’s only indoor skatepark. This 6,900 square ft park has all of the ledges, boxes, ramps, rails and half pipes you could ever want, plus a tight-knit community of skaters.
2. SeaSk8
This park, located in the heart of Seattle, is a 10,000 square ft. playground for skaters of all skill levels. It features smooth transitions and a variety of verts and boxes to skate. It’s nothing fancy, but it’ll do the trick.
3. Woodland Skatepark
Not just any other outdoors park, Woodland Skatepark is unique for its two inground pools. Wonderfully simple with good flow and obstacles that demand style rather than the complicated technical approach so many other parks encourage.
4.Delridge Skatepark
Designed by Grindline, this park has more of a wide-open feel and excels in transitions and ramps. There is a couple boxes throughout the park; but with its concrete waves, Delridge is an old school skater’s dream come true.
5. Seattle Vert Ramp
A small group of people got together to build a covered vert ramp in Seattle. Privately owned and operated, this ramp boasts competition specs of (13.5 ft high x 56 ft wide) and regularly holds competitions and events such as “old guy” night.
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Best Mountain Biking Trails Near Seattle
With its endless forests and beautiful mountain ranges, Washington State is the premier place to be an outdoors enthusiast. Mountain biking is no exception to this rule. There are plenty of great trails out there—in fact, there are thousands of good trails in the forests and cascades. Here are some trails that the locals tend to frequent most often.
1. The I-5 Colonnade
Certainly unique, and quite possibly the only park of its caliber on the west coast, the I-5 Colonnade is Seattle’s urban mountain biking park. This paradise under the freeway is great for all levels experience. It classifies the runs using the green, blue, black system that is familiar to any snowboarder/skier. This man-made park is actually located underneath the I-5, so it is rideable in all weather (although it is not lit at night time.) It offeres typically every trail/obstacle type you can think of. This is definitely a park for any avid mountain biker to check out!
2. Duthie Hill
Located on the Issaquah Plateau, the Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park features a 120 acre forest complete with rolling terrain and well draining soils. Additionally, nestled in the middle of the park is a 2.5 acre clearing. Duthie Hill offers progressive jump lines mixed with 1-2 miles of technical and fluid, freeride trails-great for those looking to build their skill-base.
3. Devils Gulch
A local favorite, Devil’s Gulch is an adequately challenging ride that is great for riders who love a good climb and a fast singletrack. Located in the foothills of the cascades, the scenery is unsurpassed. It starts off with a climb through the woods and then cuts downhill through a meandering creek and a breathtaking ridge.
4. Rattlesnake Lake
In addition to having one of the coolest names ever, Rattlesnake Lake is a Seattle-ite favorite because of its easy access, scenic views and non technical riding. This route is great for an easy afternoon ride. The trail is spotted with daisies and dandelions and takes riders by several waterfalls and creeks in addition to Rattlesnake Lake.
5. Saint Edwards State Park/Big Finn Hill
These two areas provide riders with 372 acres of twists turns, downhills, uphills, bumps, logs, and mud. There is a total of about 10 miles of trail, but you can mix and match as you go so that no two rides have to be the same. Rides range in difficulty from beginner to more advanced.
6. Iron Horse State Park: Snoqualmie Tunnel
A ride that sends you right through the side of a mountain. That’s right, through. Not over or under or around. This 2.3-mile tunnel is the closest thing you can get to a night ride during the day and provides an experience that you are not likely to replicate. The tunnel itself is a steady paced gravel road so it’s perfect for beginners. Additionally, on either side after the tunnel, there is more riding for all levels.
7. Grand Ridge
With its long gentle downhills, Grand Ridge is an easy, scenic ride for most. It is almost completely singletrack and runs through forest most of the way. It’s a great place to practice climbing hills and, if you’re looking for longer rides, you can link up to the other trails nearby.
8. Larch Mountain Loop
This track starts off with a formidable climb through forest at the beginning and is followed by a rolling single track at the top. The loop is about a 20 mile trip and is for moderate to advanced riders. There are lots of trails in and around the loop, so a map is suggested.
9. Wallace Falls Loop
Wallace Falls is a great trip for riders of all levels. The climb to Wallace Lake is along a gradual logging road, so beginners will enjoy the challenge up and the ride back down. Advanced riders can continue across the Wallace River and on to the downhill portion. Although they are mostly downhill riding, the trails are still technically difficult and continue to get more difficult until you hit the pavement when you are nearing the trailhead.
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Top 6 Rock Climbing Sites Near Seattle
You’re in Seattle: the only big city in the northwest. Sure, there’s Pike Place and EMP and all kinds of other touristy things you can do—but what’s outside of the city is what is really impressive. Washington State is a rock climber’s paradise and Seattle is the perfect jumping point. Grab those climbing shoes and chalk bags; you’ve got some rocks to scale!
1. Mountain Home (Leavenworth) Area
This is one of the most popular bouldering areas in the Pacific Northwest. The granite features thicker grains than the nearby Skykomish valley boulders and the surrounding terrain is flatter and drier. This area offers bouldering for all skill levels.
2. Exit 38
This spot is located just outside of Iron horse state park. Exit 38 was made by climbers, for climbers seeking to escape the crowds of Little Si. The rocks themselves are mostly volcanic metamorphosed rock. There are a few challenging climbs (one 5.13 and one 5.12), but it’s mostly made up of moderate routes which make it accessible and fun for climbers of all levels.
3. Index
Index is a climbing area that is known for both its traditional and aided climbing. The climbs range in elevation from 70 to 700 feet tall with just over 400 different routes. With Index’s superb fine grain granite and its well-protected walls, this is one of the better climbing spots in the state of Washington. The rating system is quite unique. It ranges from right on (easier routes) to very stiff (the more advanced routes). This spot is only an hour and a half outside of Seattle!
4. Darrington
Darrington’s rocks are composed of the same granite that is located in a lot of the other areas of the state, so it’s no surprise that this spot’s routes make for good climbing. The difficulty ranges from 5.7 to 5.11, and the dome shape of the rocks makes for a sort of summit feel when you get to the top of a climb because you are high above the surrounding valleys.
5. Exit 32/Litte Si
With mostly sport climbs and a few traditional climbs, the highlight of Little Si is World Wall 1, which has routes from 5.9 all the way up to 5.14. The area’s crags vary between full sun exposure and shaded. The climbing area is an easy 25 minute hike from the Little Si trailhead. In addition, the Little Si trail is a great day hike if you feel like continuing on after you’ve climbed for a bit.
6. Vertical World
Since becoming America’s first climbing gym in 1987, Vertical World has been serving the greater Seattle area with a superb indoor climbing experience. When it first opened, it was nothing more than some painted plywood boards in an old warehouse. Since then, it has evolved quite a bit and has opened two additional locations. Employees’ love for rock climbing is apparent as they put on classes for all ages and all skill levels while continuing to grow their business.
