Workshops hosted at High Tor Gear Exchange

History & Evolution of the Mountain Bike hosted by Ken Margolius
Join curator Ken Margolius for an evening discussing the history and evolution of the mountain bike. The featured exhibit, on display at High Tor Gear Exchange, traces the origins and evolutions of the mountain bike, from its earliest roots in the 1930s, through the beginnings of the industry in the 1980's. The seven artfully displayed bicycles stand alongside an historical timeline including dates and detailed descriptions of the bikes and the events that collectively defined the sport of mountain biking as we know it. 

Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail hosted by Emily Herman & Marissa Kubinyak
If the idea of continuously charging up and down mountains for a couple of thousand miles through sun, snow, and everything in between sounds like your cup of ramen, this workshop is for you!

Cooking In The Backcountry hosted by Andrew Eaton
From how to choose the right stove for your needs, to building the basics of your backcountry kitchen, this workshop will light a fire under your next camping and cooking adventure! We will cover basic meal planning and preparation, in addition to cold camping and minor stove repair.  

Bicycle Maintenance hosted by Kyle Rodland
Learn how to get your bike from the dusty corner of the garage out onto the streets or trail. We’ll go over basic bike maintenance and safety, and will cover things that anyone can do at home or out in the wild.  

Trip Preparation hosted by Darius Nabors & Emily Herman
Want to head out on an adventure but feel overwhelmed by the logistics and possible challenges you’ll face? In this workshop we’ll share a few of our favorite trip planning tips and tricks to hopefully make your next journey seem less daunting and more doable.

Packing A Pack hosted by George Mackaronis
Learn how to properly and effectively organize and pack your backpack, both for overnights and day trips. Save weight, maximize your comfort, and stay organized!

Map Reading hosted by George Mackaronis
One of the most essential skills for any outdoor adventurer who spends time in the backcountry! Learn how to get the most out of your maps and stay safe in the wilderness!

Gear Maintenance & Repair - hosted by Marissa Kubinyak
Learn preventative cleaning and storage care to improve the longevity of your gear, and cover basic differences between glues, tapes, and stitching techniques for common minor repairs.

Waterproofing & Material Care - hosted by Marissa Kubinyak
Learn the differences between common outdoor industry fabrics, how best to wash and maintain them, and when to use different types of waterproofing to restore their water-resistant properties. 

What to look for when buying a used bike hosted by Ken Margolius
Learn the basics of how to evaluate the working condition of a used bike, and how to determine its appropriateness for your use. Common problems and things to steer clear of will be covered. Bring your questions and/or bikes.

Hosted by

Ken Margolius

Ken credits a childhood spent immersed in gardens, old fields, meadows, and woods for leading him to his later studies and work in the fields of horticulture, agriculture and landscape design. 

More often than not however, he can be found immersed in projects having to do with old bikes or old boats. Ken has a recent past as a bike shop owner/mechanic, teaches a class on theory and practice for aspiring bike mechanics, is a resident old bike enthusiast, and is active in the rescue and restoration of fine vintage bicycles. Among Ken's favorite places to bike are the dirt backroads of Central Virginia or Northern Vermont. 

An avid, although now landlocked, sailor, Ken spent 4 years working aboard a 1906 sloop on Lake Champlain, during which time he also volunteered with the local maritime museum to build and launch an 88' schooner, and traveled the New England coast researching old workboats. He gets his open water fix these days most often in and around the Chesapeake Bay.             

Ken is perhaps best known around town for being the 'keeper' of the decade ride. 

George Mackaronis

George is the founder and co-owner of Greenstone Adventures, as well as a lead guide. He is from Mclean, Virginia where he grew up camping and exploring Great Falls Park and Catoctin Mountain Park with his family. He has been an avid backpacker and climber for over 10 years, and he has taught those skills in various guide and teaching positions since 2011.

George moved to Charlottesville, Virginia in 2012 and is currently in his fourth year teaching at Free Union Country School. George teaches pre-K through 5th grade Physical and Environmental Education at Free Union, and helps lead the Free Union nature and sports camps.