Biking & Green Living In Burlington

Vermont- Green Living

Burlington Vermont's beautyEveryone knows that biking allows you to live a healthier lifestyle. It allows you to get into the great outdoors and in cities, can even reduce traffic. For this reason, many larger cities are going to extreme measures to encourage people to take to their bicycles rather than always depending on cars, trucks, and other vehicles. One area that is making huge strides is the beautiful town of Burlington, Vermont. Those who visit this wonderful area will be impressed by the beauty of the city, but they will also be delighted by the beauty that is hidden along bike paths.

Why Go Bike Riding?

biking burlingtonBurlington, Vermont, and other areas like it, are quaint little towns with a lot of personality. It is the hidden side of them though that will make the most impact on how you look at them in the future. People just need a reason to get out an explore the hidden gems that are off the main roadways. Atlanta, Georgia offers bike-sharing programs and other major cities are following suit.
In major cities, pollution is cut drastically by having more people take their bikes to work. The commute times and traffic jams are also lessened. In smaller cities and towns where bike paths are being created, people are beginning to pedal their way to a healthier life. In every way, it is positively a great thing and we hope that more communities will get involved.

The Bicycle Movement

Once upon a time, before there were vehicles to ride, people chose to ride in buggies, walk, or ride a bicycle to get where they needed to go. The invention of vehicles changed it, and it only changed more as they became more affordable. New roads were put in, vehicles could travel faster, and the world forgot how to take it slow.
Today, even if we need to run down the block, we often jump into our car for a five-minute ride. We spend an hour in a vehicle trying to get home from work, which is only a 15-minute walk away. Why? What is the point? We do it to avoid walking? What if you could take a bicycle path and arrive there in ten minutes? Would that change how you view your daily commute?
A lot of people in cities are saying that it would change the way they travel, but many feel it is not safe to travel on sidewalks. Bicycle paths make it easier for people who are willing to leave their car at home. These paths run away from cars, often into areas that are more scenic than even the downtown areas, so that people can travel safely to wherever they want to go. It is a movement that has been making Burlington a nicer area to live in and visit since 2013.

Enjoy the Ride!

Whether you are traveling to Vermont or live there full-time, you will always have plenty to see along the many bike trails and walking paths that you will find. These paths are spread all over this outstandingly beautiful state. Will you take part and keep Vermont free of traffic?

Bike Repair Stations Along The Trail

Burlington, VT, has embraced outdoor recreation by establishing bike repair stations along its scenic trails, enhancing the experience for cyclists and promoting sustainable transportation. These strategically placed stations are equipped with essential tools and equipment, allowing riders to make quick repairs on-the-go, from fixing flat tires to adjusting brakes and gears.

The stations often feature stands that securely hold bikes in place, making repairs more accessible and user-friendly. By providing these amenities, Burlington not only supports its cycling community but also encourages more residents and visitors to explore the area’s beautiful landscapes on two wheels. This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles and enhancing the overall safety and enjoyment of biking along its trails.

Repair Station Features

A bike repair station along a bike trail typically includes a variety of essential tools and equipment to assist cyclists in maintaining their bikes. Common tools found at these stations include a tire pump, often equipped with both Presta and Schrader valve compatibility, making it accessible for different types of bikes.

Multi-tools are also standard, featuring various wrenches, screwdrivers, and chain tools to handle a range of repairs. Additionally, many stations provide tire levers to help remove and replace tires, as well as patches or kits for fixing punctures. Some might include a work stand to stabilize the bike during repairs, ensuring ease of use. Occasionally, you will find hydraulic cap and plug kit for leaking tires and cables. Lastly, basic supplies like spare tubes, zip ties, and cleaning rags may also be available, making these stations a comprehensive resource for cyclists in need of quick repairs while on the trail.

Familiarize Yourself With Trail Maps & Features

Trail users should familiarize themselves with the rules and etiquette of the trail, such as yielding to pedestrians and signaling when passing other cyclists. Being aware of one’s surroundings and anticipating potential hazards, such as uneven terrain, wildlife, or other trail users, is essential for safe riding.

Additionally, Burlington’s bike trails are often equipped with repair stations that provide tools and equipment for minor repairs, which can enhance safety by allowing cyclists to address mechanical issues promptly. Finally, participating in community events or workshops on bike maintenance and safety can help cyclists feel more confident and prepared while enjoying the beautiful trails of Burlington.

Clean Portable Power Solutions

diesel fuelsWe live in a world that has a lot of very large concerns. One of the biggest is greenhouse gases. We now know that everything we do can negatively impact the world that we call home. The biggest problem is all the pollution that we create. All the vehicles, boats, power grids that use coal, and other things all play a part. But how do we live in a world without power? We have to start considering clean portable power solutions!

The Greenhouse Gases

greenhouse gasesThere are five primary greenhouse gases. They include:

  • Water Vapor (H2O)
  • Methane (CH4)
  • Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
  • Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
  • and Ozone (O3)

Greenhouse gases are necessary if we want to continue to live on Earth. Without them, this world would be an icy wasteland. The purpose of these gases is to hold Earth’s heat, which comes from the sun so that it cannot leak out into space.

This may contract your current thoughts that global warming is the biggest problem we face. The truth is though that as our gases decrease so in certain areas, we heat up. Icebergs melt, water levels rise, and more. It is depleting the gases that we have protecting us from turning Earth into a frozen mass of land. It is all very complicated, but no matter which way you look at it, Earth is on its way to being a wasteland.

The biggest thing that causes us to lose this effect is anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions. These emissions come from our use of fossil fuels and how we live our lives. Deforestation, soil erosion, and more all play its respective parts.

What Can You Do?

greenhouse gases global warmingDiesel and gas are two “dirty” fuel options. Diesel emits nitrogen compounds that can be bad for the environment. However, it emits lower amounts of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrocarbons than gasoline. This is why many people are trying to get away from both types of fuel.

Some alternative fuel options are:

  • Ethanol
  • Natural Gas
  • Propane
  • Methanol
  • Hydrogen
  • Electric

The more that we use these types of gases, the more we will be doing “good” for the world that we live in.

What does it mean for you? Do you have to go without power or vehicles? It ultimately means very little. You can make small changes in the way you do things. For instance, rather than buy a big gasoline generator, you may want to choose a small propane generator. You do not lose out on power, but you are making a better choice overall. You could choose a vehicle that burns less gasoline. Electric cars that can go 70 miles on a gallon of gas would be a great alternative to gas-guzzling 16mpg vehicles.

We Can Change the World

It may sound complicated to change the world, but it isn’t. Most of the people who live here want to better the world that we live in for future generations. If we were all working together, making better choices, and more, we could pull off a miracle. This would preserve what we have and maybe make it better for our great-great-grandchildren. Why not try?

 

Will Epoxy Tables Be Strong Enough?

outdoor furnitureHave you ever left a piece of plastic out in the sun or found a long-forgotten item? Was it brittle and discolored? This was likely an effect of sun damages and other environmental factors. The outside world is a rough place to be. Any outdoor item is susceptible to this harsh environment. Furniture manufacturers that create outdoor furniture have to keep this in mind when building stuff. DIY’ers must also consider it and many wonder if epoxy tables will be strong enough to withstand.

How Furniture Stays Protected from Damages

patio furniture protectionOutdoor furniture is typically made of either hard plastic, wood, or metal. Each material has its pros and cons and each one may last for a while if they are somewhat protected from extreme environmental changes. In excessively sunny areas, plastic will give out first. Heat causes the plastic to soften and then when temperatures do cool off, it makes it weaker. This means you will likely have to change it every couple of seasons.

Wood is more durable, but may be susceptible to rot if not protected from excessive moisture. However, it should last you throughout several seasons and years.

Metal is the most durable, but can still have issues as the years pass by. Most often it will be in the form of rust unless protected from moisture.

Since most crafters prefer to work with wood projects. How do you protect it from the weather? Is there a way to make that beautiful deck chair you created last for more than five years? The answer to this is, “Yes!”

Protecting Wood

epoxy patio furnitureThere are several options available when protecting wood furniture from inclement weather. You can choose to keep it on your deck where it is somewhat protected. You can put it in the shed during extreme weather occurrences (snow, rain, etc.). Paint and varnish will also work if you do not mind redoing it every few seasons.

The last and perhaps the best option is to seal it. Sealing water out will keep the wood from holding excessive moisture, which makes it less likely to sustain damages. Can epoxy work to seal it? The durability of epoxy is never a question. It is hard as glass, but many people worry that it may not be able to handle outdoor environments.

Can Epoxy Seal and Last?

Admittedly, some types of epoxy will yellow in the sun if left out for long periods of time. However, not all will do this. Some brands are much more UV resistant than others. This will only be noticeable in certain situations and most epoxy does warn that you should not leave it in direct sunlight, even with UV resistance.

This does not mean that you cannot use epoxy on your outdoor furniture. It is exceptionally strong and can protect furniture for many years. This will make your wooden creations last a substantial bit longer. As an added bonus, if you want, you can recoat or refinish epoxied furniture with only a little effort.

Portable Power on the Trail

enjoy the outdoorsOn the trails of Vermont and many other areas around the US, there is so much to see. Each day, each hour can lead to some new adventure that you will never forget. However, it is not an area known as the “comfort land”. When you go hiking, you are off the grid and away from power. Power areas are as limited as the towns between trails. This is why you need portable power on the trail for charging your cellphone, laptop, and more.

Oh, The Things You Can See

rare birdWhen on the trails, you can watch birds, enjoy remote bubbling streams, and so much more. There is an unending list of unique things to see. No matter how often you walk down the same trails, you are always going to see something new. New rocks on the river bed, a rare bird species, a deer in the meadows. The things that were not there yesterday and many not be there tomorrow. You have to savor the experiences when they happen.

Keep Your Memories

hiking trailsWhat is the point of being there if you are unable to share it? Most people want to capture the beauty of the things that they see. The things that are unexpected and may never be seen again. If you are out for an entire weekend? How is it possible to photograph the rare birds or the largest fish if you cannot prove you saw it?

The easiest way to keep everything powered up and ready, you can use a 2000w generator. These portable power machines can provide power to the most remote areas. You never have to worry about going out, even if you are “roughing it” down the trails.

These machines require very little but can provide power for many days if you are using it while camping. They are affordable, and we feel you will always find a use for it.

Live Your Best Life

It is a wonderful life we have. The more you get out and enjoy it, the better. Make your memories, keep your memories, and share every detail of the adventures that you have. You do not have to tour Vermont. You do not have to walk through the biggest national parks around. You can go big or go small. The choice is yours. All that matters is that you live the best life that you can live. That you find your happiest places on Earth.

Preparations for a Day on the Trails

hiking in naturePlanning a day of fun in the great outdoors is very exciting. There are so many things you can do when you are there, but the first challenge you will face is packing all the right things. If you set off into the deepest parts of nature, you should never do it without some safety gear and personal comfort items as well. When you make all the right preparations for a day on the trails, you are guaranteed an even better time while there.

A Day on the Trails

hiking bikesWhere is your favorite hiking or biking trails going to take you? Do you have a favorite or do you enjoy visiting new areas as often as possible? Whether you are faithful to one trail, only local trails, or traveling the world one trail at a time; it is exciting. It is the best possible way to leave the stress of the city behind while you embrace the world as it should be. Stress-free, natural, and beautiful.

The problem is, nature is also a wild place to be. Wild animals, insects, and more can be found out there. Before you leave home, you need to be prepared for any situation that may come up.

Preparing for Anything

biking nature trailsWhen exploring all that nature has to offer, you need to always be prepared. This includes a change of clothes or rain gear, insect repellents, and a first aid kit for potential accidents. The first aid kit should cover all the basics, including any medication that you may need. Allergy pills, heart meds, and more.  Your smartphone with GPS is also recommended since it will allow you to avoid getting lost.

We know that space is often limited. Biking with a backpack is not always easy and no one wants to hike with a 50-pound bag if it is unavoidable. However, along with your necessities, you need to always be hydrated. An ice pack made with alcohol will keep water bottles cold and protein bars are perfect snacks that will not weigh a lot.

Enjoy the Feeling of Freedom

In a crazy world, we all need an escape. For many, it is the great outdoors that provides them with the escape that they need. To enjoy it fully though, you must always be prepared for the “what if”. If you do not prepare for any unexpected situation, then your “escape” could become your worst nightmare. Ropes, knives, a hammer, a tent, and anything else that you feel is important is a good choice to take along. You have to decide what is most important for where you will be, how long you expect to be out, and more.

Camping In Vermont

autumn in vermontWhen in Vermont, you will meet people who love the beauty that Mother Nature provides freely. During each of the seasons, there is something that locals, and visitors, enjoy doing. Some of which can only be enjoyed in this beautiful state. In fact, some people dream of the days when they can go camping in Vermont during each of the four seasons.

Winter Wonderland Activities

winter in vermontFor all the winter’s chill that comes to Vermont, people still enjoy the outdoor life that is found here. From ice fishing in the lake to relaxing on a sleigh ride, it is all possible here. Cross country skiing is a favorite pastime as well and it seems a virtual requirement that you have skis, if not a snowmobile. Ice skating and sledding are activities that people of all ages enjoy and there are plenty of hills and mountains to enjoy it on.

Fun in the Sun

vermont in summerWhen all the ice melts away, this is still one of the most beautiful places to be. The lakes that were icy a few weeks before are now refreshing and cool. You can dive in and relax. Farmer’s markets are also open and selling local produce. Without the snow, kids and adults can ride a mountain coaster which will take them from the top of a mountain to the bottom with a few thrills along the way. Fly fishing, rodeo events, and many other things to do are also found here.
In an area this calming and amazing, people travel from all over the world to become one with nature. They spend time camping in tents or RVs at the base of mountains or near lakes. They enjoy a day at the spa to unwind from the stress of home, which frees them up to completely embrace this quieter, more serene lifestyle. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, you will be changed forever by the time that you spend camping here.
Is it any wonder that people visiting want to stay awhile and choose to have a coast to coast camping membership? This type of membership allows everyone to ride their bikes, go camping, and just explore what Vermont has to offer, but it also allows them to go from sea to sea.

Pick Your Adventures

As winter’s chill fades away and spring sets in, the world becomes new. This is very evident in Vermont’s outstanding beauty. However, as summer fades away into cooler days, the leaves change and everything appears more tranquil. During these times, you can enjoy the great outdoors or do so many other things. It is here, and during these times that people truly discover what it means to relax. It is a peaceful place that allows you to pick any adventure, no matter how exciting or relaxing it may be. What are you waiting on?