The February Issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors is Live

DEPARTMENTS

THE DIRT

Freesoloist Austin Howell survives a near-death fall and keeps climbing.

QUICK HITS

Lance wins a trail race—people get pissed • Chimney Rock expands • Former Olympian runs sub-five mile for 40th consecutive year

FLASHPOINT

Cut the carbs? Crank up the workout intensity? Juicy detox cure? 5 common fitness myths debunked.

THE GOODS

Adventure runner Phil Phelan’s go-to gear for multiday treks.

TRAIL MIX

Fast Hands and Hard Truths: New albums from Larry Keel and Malcom Holcombe.

FEATURES

TAKING BACK THE GAULEY

“Once I got out on the Gauley, my hands shook with each pull through the water, and in the opening rapids, I had trouble rallying the power that I needed to steer myself.”

TRAIL HEROES

There aren’t many large black women lining up at the starting line of 62-mile ultras. That hasn’t stopped Mirna Valerio, a Georgia teacher and coach who is shattering stereotypes. Meet Mirna and four other inspiring trail runners from the Blue Ridge.

BLUE RIDGE BUCKET LIST

Make 2016 the year of no excuses. Check out these 41 regional events that are sure to make your quads crumble, your forearms scream, and your sides cramp. If you live here or play here, these are the must-dos.

THE WAY FORWARD

Ultrarunning legend and multiple national champion Anne Riddle reflects on what the trail has taught her.

APRÈS SKI

No two words excite snowsports aficionado Graham Averill more than après ski, roughly translated from the French: ‘I drank too much champagne and fell in the hot tub while still wearing my ski boots.’

DITCH THE GPS

Adventurer Devon O’neil gets lost to find himself.