PLINKERVIEW WITH NOAH DINES
Noah Dines from Stowe, VT, is attempting a world record by climbing and skiing 3,000,000 vertical feet in 2024. It's an EPIC endeavor that requires a daily goal of 10,000 feet. He's on track for the record. During a rare moment when he wasn't skiing uphill, skiing downhill or sleeping, we managed to ask him some questions. He shared sage advice for anyone feeling adventurous. Read ahead to get hyped and learn about truck treats.
Our Strava feeds are 95% Noah, these days. You've been on the move, chasing snow. Where you are today?
Mt. Hood, Oregon. The summer skiing capital of North America.
What brings you joy?
Walking uphill and sliding down.
When did you set your mind on pursuing a world record?
I first thought of it seriously in February of last year after a bad date.
What’s the average daily routine look like at the moment?
Wake up. Coffee. Carbs. Ski for 6-8 hours. Eat and rest. Sleep.
You’ve over halfway there. Is it all downhill from here?
I wish! I have more confidence now, which makes things easier, but also fatigue builds throughout the year. Every portion of the journey has its joys and challenges.
What’s been harder than you anticipated?
Logistics. Travel has been far harder and more grueling than I thought it would be. Also, the weather. It’s been very hot for most of my skiing.
You've clocked over 1,000 hours in mountains all over the world. What’s been the most beautiful moment of the year so far?
I think skiing in St. Anton. The really narrow valleys are incredible.
Talk us through the food you consume to fuel this adventure?
It definitely varies from location to location but one thing is constant…Carbs. My body needs fuel to burn so I make sure to provide it
You’ve got to head to the Southern Hemisphere to find snow soon. Where will you go and why?
Yes, probably mid-to-late July. I haven’t come up with a great plan yet. I'm still learning and considering my options. (DM Noah your suggestions, readers!)
A lot of people reading this on the toilet or sitting in their home office or doomscrolling late at night are envious of the amount of time you’re spending in the mountains. What advice would you give folks who wish they could be out doing something like what you’re doing?
I think the most important thing is to do what you can, now. Even if you want to take a year to do something really big make sure to do something outside TODAY.
If you weren’t going for this record, what’s another record you think is within your grasp?
HMMM that’s a tough one. Believe it or not, I’m not super motivated by records. This one is nice because it provides a framework for a year of trying really hard.
When you beat the record, we’ll obviously throw a big party for you, and you’ll probably want to rest for a day or two. But what’s next?
First thing first is sleeping in and enjoying a day with no pressure. I’ll probably ski but only a little. I’m going to go somewhere to surf in January and spend time with family and friends. I would love to keep doing cool stuff outdoors but the degree to which I can do that is up in the air.
You had such a supportive community of folks in your home area of Stowe. Friends were leaving food in your truck while you were out doing laps and joining you for runs. When you’re miles away from home, are you still finding allies?
I have been SHOCKED at how many people know who I am and what I am doing as I have traveled across the country. It’s been really cool to meet people that have been following along. And I have even gotten truck treats as far away from home as Utah. (for those not following Noah on Instagram or Strava, "truck treats" are when strangers drop things like Donuts or Sandwiches in his open truck window while he is out doing laps).
How can people from afar support your effort?
First and foremost I appreciate everyone reaching out and sending messages of support and appreciation. I do have a GoFundMe if people are so inclined.
Ski touring is sweaty work. Are you staying hydrated?
Hydrate or diedrate.