Author: Alan Perlman

Top 5 Skateparks in Las Vegas

Among all of the outdoor activities there are to do in Las Vegas, skateboarding is another popular one. Las Vegas is home to some of the best skateparks including the brand new Craig Ranch Skatepark! The list below is a guide for those looking to skateboard in the area.

1. Craig Ranch Skatepark

Rated the number one skatepark in Nevada, Craig Ranch is fairly new. Located in the Craig Ranch Regional Park in north Las Vegas, this 65,000 square ft. outdoor concrete park features a flow bowl, two pool bowls, a skate plaza in the corner, a half pipe and mostly square rails with an exception of one round rail.

2. Anthem Skatepark

Located about 10 minutes southwest of downtown Las Vegas, Anthem Skatepark is considered one of the best in the area. The outdoor park opened in 2003 and features a big flow area with depths ranging from 3’ to 9’ as well as a kidney pool with steep transitions. Make sure you wear a helmet here because you can get ticketed for not wearing one!

3. SkateCity Skatepark

This recently remodeled indoor skatepark features a mix of large and small ¼ pipes, a mini ramp, banks, ledges, stair sets, handrails and an awesome foam pit. BMX riders and skateboarders are welcome here.

4. Hollywood Skatepark

This 29,000 square ft. skatepark features concrete bowls connected by an 18’ full-pipe, and 11’ deep kidney bowl and a number of stairs and ledges. If you’re bringing your kids here be careful as some of the bowls might be too deep.

5. Metro Skatepark

This skatepark is located in Northwest Las Vegas. It features a half pipe area, pyramid in the center of the park and a good sized bowl with some stair sets. Be careful as the concrete here is very slippery!

1 August, 2014
5 Best Cycling Routes in Boston

What better way to experience all the historical sites that Boston has to offer than biking through the city. These cycling routes in Boston should definitely be on your list of things to do while in town. And if you don’t have a bike with you, no problem there are plenty of rental shops in the city!

1. Minuteman Bikeway

This historic bike route takes you through Lexington and Arlington and is approximated to be the same route as Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride. The trail is 11 miles start to finish and runs along an old railroad.

2. Arnold Arboretum

As the oldest arboretum in the U.S., the Arnold Arboretum is a must see. There is a 4.6 mile loop that goes around the arboretum, however, you can also choose from any of the paved main path. While you’re here make sure you head to Peters Hill which features a beautiful view of Boston!

3. Southwest Corridor Park

The Southwest Corridor Park route is great for those looking to take a leisurely summer ride. This path is often times used as a commuter route for locals so it can get crowded during rush hour. One of the reasons it’s so great is that there are a ton of activity centers along the route including seven basketball courts, two spray pools, five tennis courts, an amphitheater and two hockey street rinks.

4. Stony Brook Reservation

Stony Brook Reservation consists of 475 acres of ponds, parks, and 12 miles of hiking and bike trails. This is a great spot for an all day adventure as there are also picnic grounds and tennis courts to check out after your bike ride.

5. Charlestown Waterfront Bike Path

The Charlestown Waterfront Bike Path is a good option for those looking to really see some of Boston’s historic sites. This route is about one mile long and takes you along the ocean past Charleston Navy Yard and the USS Constitution. To get the most out of your ride, take a short detour to the Bunker Hill Monument and stop at the City Square Park at then end.

1 August, 2014
Top 5 Ski Resorts Near Boston

So you’re in the Boston area in the middle of ski season and need a place to escape to for some good runs without the long travel time…where do you go? Well luckily you’re in the Northeast which is home to some great ski resorts. This list is your one-stop shop for the best ski resorts near Boston.

1. Blue Hills Ski Area

The Blue Hills Ski Area is a part of the Blue Hills Reservation in Canton, Massachusetts and is situated on the western face of Great Blue Hill. This family-friendly ski spot is the closest to the Boston Metro Area and features twelve trails that cover a vertical drop of 309 ft. and 60 acres of skiable terrain.

2. Wachusett Mountain

Located in Worcester County, Wachusett Mountain features a summit elevation of 2,006 ft. with a vertical drop of 1,000 ft. The mountain covers 110 skiable acres with 22 trails 30% of which are great for beginners, 40% intermediate and another 30% advanced. Balance Rock is 1.5 miles long making it the longest trail on the mountain. This ski area also offers a number of food and beverage facilities to treat yourself after a long day on the slopes.

3. Nashoba Valley Ski Area

Nashoba Valley is a small ski area that has been in operation since the 1960’s. This ski area features 17 trails of varying terrain for all levels of experience. Another cool feature Nashoba has to offer is their snowtubing park, which happens to be the largest in New England!

4. Waterville Valley Resort

Located in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, this resort is about two hours from Boston. If you’re looking for a classic resort experience, Waterville Valley is the place to go. The resort offers 220 acres of varied skiable terrain for all levels of experience. There are a total of 50 trails with the longest being 1.9 miles as well as all levels of glades and moguls.

5. Ski Bradford

Ski Bradford is a small ski area located just minutes outside of Boston. The ski area consists of 13 trails over 48 acres of skiable terrain. Ski Bradford features an awesome terrain park which differs year to year. This is a great spot to learn how to ski!

1 August, 2014
5 Best Mountain Biking Trails Near Boston

The surrounding areas of Boston provide a wonderful mixture of terrain. Whether you’re looking for a technical downhill ride or something a little more scenic, the Boston area is an awesome location to explore. This list is a great starting point for your next mountain biking trip!

1. Blue Hills

The substantial amount of trails and varied terrain make the Blue Hills Reservation one of the most popular locations for mountain biking in Massachusetts. The reservation offers 7,000 acres of land that offer a multitude of routes to suite whatever you’re in the mood for whether its a 12-20 mile ride or a brief run through the woods, the Blue Hills provide fire roads and singletrack with rocky and sandy sections.

2. Callahan State Park

This area offers 6.5 miles of single and doubletrack gravel and dirt trails with plenty of roots and rocky sections throughout the rolling park hills. Most of the park is considered moderately difficult, however, there are some sections of very technical terrain.

3. Catamount Ski Area

For a primarily downhill experience, the Catamount Ski Area offers great top to bottom singletrack with varying degress of difficulty ranging from intermediate to expert. The singletrack trails offer some natural and man-made obstacles like bridging ride-overs, step-ups, down-ladder bridges, table-tops and launches of varying depths.

4. Mount Snow

Considered the mountain bike capital of the East, Mount Snow provides 45 miles of singletrack terrain down old town roads and ski trails. Here there are plenty of rocks, roots and drop-offs to keep you occupied on your way down the mountain. There are a number of trails good for beginners such as “Newby Road” as well as expert trails like the famous “Pucker Alley”.

5. Circle Boston

This 8.7 mile loop takes you throughout historic Boston where you will have the chance to take in many of the landmarks in the area. The trail is considered easy and doesn’t require any special skill, however, it’s still a fun and interesting ride. Terrain includes a mixture of streets, back alleys, dirt, in-line skating trails, stairs and wide brick.

1 August, 2014
Top 5 Places to Rock Climb Near Boston

Massachusetts was graced with some great little climbing areas which happen to be not too far from the Boston area. Although the tallest climb is only around 150 ft., this area tends to be considered a training area for most locals. However if you’re looking to experience some of the historic rock climbs that have been around since the early 1900’s this list will be a great starting point!

1. Quincy Quarries

Quincy Quarries is a great rock climbing spot. With multiple top rope routes and bouldering problems at varying difficulty, climbers of all experience levels can enjoy! The area is about a half a mile in length with the different wall offerings.

2. Hammond Pond

Another popular rock climbing area, Hammond Pond is located near Boston by the Chestnut Hill shopping center. Climbing here dates all the way back to the early 1900’s and consists of about 14 crags with some great bouldering in the Alcove. There is also a cave called Hermit’s Cave which features some good underclings that you must try!

3. Crow Hill

Located an hour west of Boston in Leominster State Forest, features a variety of 32 routes that include trad, sport and top rope. Many of Crow Hill’s cracks and faces are east-southeast facing and situated on a hillside, causing the grainy rocks to seep and hold moisture longer than other areas in New England. The season here varies and can begin in either March or June depending on how wet the previous winter was.

4. Cape Ann

Cape Ann features 641 total routes with some routes speckled with touch granite. It is composed of mainly boulders and short cliffs which are great for trad, sport and top rope climbs. One of the most popular crags called Redrock is often times hard to find but definitely a must.

5. Dogtown

Dogtown Park’s 3600 acres hold an interesting history dating back to the 1600’s. What began as an early settlement was eventually abandoned opening the area to witches and vagabonds. During the Great Depression, founder of Babson College had stonecutters engrave inspirational sayings into the various boulders in the area (pictured below) The park features many glacial erratics good for bouldering and 79 total routes. Spiritual Power is a popular climb in the area.

1 August, 2014
GORUCK Cadre Official Promo Video

GORUCK employees dozens of cadre to lead special events and challenges around the globe. They’re all decorated combat veterans and have served in special operations. In this official promo video, get a taste for one of the baddest ass experiences you can have.

1 August, 2014
5 Best Day Hikes Near Boston

For those days when you just want to slow down and get away from the fast-paced city, escape into nature by checking out some of these beautiful hiking areas surrounding Boston.

1. Middlesex Fells Skyline Trail

This 6.9 mile loop takes about 1-3 hours to complete. The trail takes you around the perimeter of the Middlesex Fells Reservation primarily through woods with several rocky viewpoints of the city. The Middlesex Fells Skyline Trail is considered the most difficult on the western side of the reservation and is designated only for hikers. Feel free to bring your dog!

2. Breakheart Reservation Trail

Only 8.8 miles from Boston, the trails here at Breakheart Reservation are generally pretty easy. The trials criss-cross and connect in a 4.3 mile loop around the 640 acre reservation. There is also a beach nearby where the whole family can hang out and relax after a fun hike through the woods.

3. Blue Hills Skyline Loop

The Blue Hills Reservation is located in Milton, just 20 minutes outside Boston and covers 7,000 acres of land. The Skyline Loop is a 2.6 mile route with fairly steep sections mixed in with some flat parts. When you reach Eliot Tower you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the city skyline.

4. Waconah Falls State Park

This one is 137 miles from Boston but well worth the drive. The Waconah Falls State Park is named after the breathtaking 140 ft. waterfall situated in the center of the park. There is a moderately difficult half mile long trail that takes you right to the waterfall. This is a great day trip to walk around and have a picnic or even go fishing.

5. Reformatory Branch Trail

This 4 mile trail takes you through Elm Brook Conservation Area, the Mary Putnam Webber Wildlife Preserve and Great Meadows Natural Wildlife Refuge. Reformatory Branch Trail has a variety of rugged terrain but is a nice route to see all the wildlife in the area.

31 July, 2014
Top 5 Adrenaline Activities in Sydney

In the Sydney area and looking for an adrenaline rush? Sydney’s varied landscape provides tons of options for all types of adrenaline-inducing activities whether you want to try skydiving or shark diving, Sydney has it all.

1. The Downunder Jet Boat

The Downunder Jet Boat is the best experience for those who really like to go fast. This boat will take you along the Sydney shoreline at high speed as it surfs the waves and pulls 270 degree spins.

2. Shark Dive Xtreme at Manly Sea Life Sanctuary

Dive with four different species of sharks and other sea life including mattress-sized stingrays, giant turtles and snapper in the Manly Sea Life Sanctuary.

3. Jetpack Adventures Sydney

This unique experience allows you to fly above the water with a jetpack. This is an excellent option for anyone looking for an adrenaline rush!

4. Skydive the Beach Sydney

As Sydney’s only beach skydiving location, Skydive the Beach Sydney is a cool adventure for anyone. Tandem skydive from altitudes up to 15,000 ft. directly over Wollongong beach. Skydiving here offers the best views of the water and Southern Sydney beaches.

5. Trees Adventure

Experience the trees in Sydney like never before. The Trees Adventure park features challenging ropes courses high up in the canopy. You’ll be swinging and jumping from tree to tree while tackling obstacles along the way.

31 July, 2014
5 Best Surf Spots in Sydney

Whether you’re an experienced surfer, or simply just want to cross surfing in Sydney off your bucket list, the beaches in Sydney provide a variety of surf spots with something for everyone. This guide will give you a good starting point for when you’re choosing the best places to surf.

1. Mackenzies Bay

Mackenzies Bay is a good spot for all levels of surfers. It’s located on the North side and is a quick walk from Tamarama Beach or can be reached by paddling from Bronte Beach. Although there are some rocks, if you time it right this spot has great potential.

2. Shark Island

As you can probably tell from the picture below, this surf spot does not cater well to novice surfers. In fact Shark Island should only be attempted by experts or crazy nut jobs who want to live dangerously. Be aware, this area features some seriously sharp reef!

3. Bilgola Beach

Another beach that is best left for experienced surfers, Bilgola is a small beach nestled between Avalon and Newport. The waves at this secluded beach are generally around 1.5 meters as it is somewhat protected from the southeast swell. The waves here tend to be hollow and fast but tons of fun!

4. Long Reef

Located on the Northern Beaches, Long Reef offers consistent surf over a sand and rock bottom. Because of the beaches strong winds, this is a popular spot for hang gliders and kite surfers as well!

5. North Narrabeen Point

Surfing at North Narrabeen is a fun spot where a lot of the locals and experienced surfers like to go. The world-class left waves here are ledgey, hollow and powerful.

31 July, 2014
Top 5 Beaches in Sydney

It’s no question that Australia is a beach enthusiasts dream destination. Sydney is home to some pretty remarkable beaches with soft sand, clear water and awesome waves that are sure to impress anyone.

1. Tamarama Beach

This stunning, secluded beach is great for swimming, surfing and body surfing. The water is deep and the current can be strong at times but the sand is gorgeous so those who don’t want to spend too much time in the water will definitely enjoy the beach. Plus there is a small park at the back of the beach and a cute little cafe for when you get hungry.

2. Bondi Beach

Fun fact, Bondi beach holds the 2007 Guinness World record for the largest swimsuit photo shoot with 1,010 bikini-clad women taking part! Other than that this beach is pretty awesome and is considered a favorite in the area. It is a quick cliff walk from Tamarama Beach and is in close proximity to a ton of bars, shops and hotels.

3. Bronte Beach

Located on Nelson Bay, Bronte Beach is a small beach that sits in between Bondi Beach and Coogee Beach. It’s a popular beach with surfers and features an awesome rock pool towards the southern end of the beach where swimmers who wish to avoid the rough waves can hang out.

4. Coogee Beach

Coogee Beach is located on the eastern side and is connected to Bronte and Bondi beach by a long paved path that is popular for tourists, walkers and joggers. Coogee Beach is known for its dangerous shorebreaks and is very popular among swimmers. This beach is great for BBQ’s because it is one of the few beaches around that lets you drink at the beachside parks!

5. Clovelly Beach

Clovelly Beach is one of the best beaches around for snorkeling. This beach is situated at the end of the narrow bay and is accessible from the concrete steps near the world’s first surf club.

31 July, 2014