Race to the Top of Vermont -- August 25th -- Stowe, Vt

Triangulated between three of the four highest mountains in Vermont, CCOutdoorStore.com is truly in the heart of the Green Mountains. The tallest of Vermont's peaks, Mount Mansfield, towers over our community at a height of 4393' (1339 meters). In just over a month's time, a race will be held to determine the gutsiest lady and gentleman in the area, the 6th annual Race to the Top of Vermont.

On August 25th, 800 contestants will push their will-powered drive trains up the historic Toll Road. With an elevation gain of 2564' in just 4.3 miles, this is one of the most challenging races in the northeast.

Contestants may hike, run, walk or bike. This is a family event, and there's even a 1k and 3k Mini Hill Climb for children ages 4-14. Following the races will be awards, prize giveaways, raffles, live music and a barbeque.

IF I were to subject myself to such an extreme physical and mental test as the RTTTOVT, the only pair of shoes I would consider wearing would be the Treksta Evolution GTX Trail Runner, with its lightweight but supportive build and NestFIT technology. Check them out here.

For all information, including registration details, visit www.RTTTOVT.com

GMC Project Update: Winooski Footbridge Along the Long Trail

Vermont's footpath through the wilderness, a.k.a. The Long Trail, is one of the state's most magnificent treasures. The LT, which runs 275 miles from Massachusetts to Canada through the highest Green Mountains in the state, happens to go right by our store. Between the trail and us, however, flows the Winooski River. It was the Green Mountain Club's initiative to protect and bolster the beauty of the trail by constructing a footbridge across the Winooski River, doing away with the old three miles of roadway and autobridge.

Check out the GMC's video update of the project which includes an interview with major project benefactor Daan Zwick -- a GMC caretaker from 1938-1941!

When the project is completed (shooting for June 2014), it is going to foster a much more natural transition between Camel's Hump and Mount Mansfield. The GMC would greatly appreciate supportive donations to the project, which can be made online: here.

If Summer 2014 is void of plans, why not schedule a visit to Vermont? Do some hiking and camping, take the factory tour at Ben & Jerry's, try the globally acclaimed Heady Topper by Alchemist Brewing, ride the Alpine Slide at Spruce Mountain; there's so much to do here in the heart of the Green Mountains.

But of course, while you're here, come see us at CC!