Interview: The_Man_Within_The_Map

I remember noticing The_Man_Within_The_Map as far back as 2020. I always liked his approach as much as his skiing. There’s an upbeat life force that shines through his content.

The man himself — Shane O’Toole — had a solid following and then this season, he kind of exploded.

After I saw him stand up to defend the honor of Thunder Ridge on Instagram, I wanted to hear what he had to say. Our interview with Shane O’Toole follows.

—Harvey
Editor in Chief, NYSkiBlog.com

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NYSB: Where is your base and where do you adventure?

Shane: I’m from Westchester County, it’s a good launching pad. Being relatively close to the mountains of the Northeast, I have a good opportunity to explore, ski in the winter, and seek out swimming spots in the summer.

Living within striking distance of the mountains and wild places fuels my passion for discovering and sharing the things that inspire me. My Instagram is all about the landscapes and experiences that I love.

When did you start skiing? What’s your favorite type of skiing?

I began skiing in my early teens at Plattekill, and there my passion for the skiing took root. Like so many of us, I love the feeling of skiing powder and gliding through fresh snow. That said, in the East powder days can be rare, so I’ve learned to embrace all conditions. Whether it’s fresh snow, packed powder, or icy groomers, I’m up for it.

Nice. What’s your favorite ski destination?

I ski most often at Plattekill, my home mountain. I love the steep terrain off the double chair and the unmatched glades that the area offers. The natural beauty and challenging runs make it a good fit for my skiing style. I’m tired of corporate mountains, and Plattekill enhances my enjoyment of the outdoors in an authentic and laid-back environment. Plattekill is welcoming, and it feels like a place where I can connect with nature. Whether I’m carving up the trails or exploring the glades, Plattekill feels like home.

That said, I chase the snow wherever it’s falling across the Northeast. In recent years, that’s often meant traveling deeper into New England to find and ski powder. The thrill of exploring new slopes and conditions keeps me on the move.”

Do you ski backcountry?

I venture into the backcountry when it’s necessary. If it snows before the resorts open, you can bet I’ll be earning my turns. I make an annual pilgrimage to Mount Washington in the spring to ski Tuckerman Ravine after the resorts have closed for the season. That said, I definitely prefer a lift when I can get one — it’s hard to beat the convenience.

What draws you to skiing?

It’s a sense of freedom and a feeling of connection at the same time. Carving a groomer, weaving through trees, or floating in fresh snow, the freedom of movement is accompanied by a connection to the mountains that’s hard to describe. Skiing has a way of bringing people together, whether it’s with friends on a lift or meeting new people who share the passion.

Swimming?

I love swimming holes in the Northeast: their natural beauty and the sense of discovery that comes with finding them. Many spots are just a short day trip from Westchester County, making it easy to escape the city and immerse in nature. A hidden waterfall or a peaceful mountain pond, these places offer a refreshing break from modern life. I love fining serene and beautiful spots close to home.

Explain the @the_man_within_the_map.

It began as a way to share my love for skiing while showcasing the beauty of the landscapes I find. For me ‘the man within the map’ seeks out new experiences looking for hidden gems, whether it’s winter or summer. I want to inspire outdoor exploration and appreciate the beauty around us, especially in New York and Vermont, where the mountains and waterways offer incredible diversity.

I strive to share stunning visuals and the stories behind each location — and the joy of connecting with nature. Ultimately, it’s about embracing the journey and encouraging others to get out there and chase their own adventures.

Is this TMWTM a business or a legend?

It started as a hobby during COVID, while we were all looking for ways to connect outdoors. Initially, it was a fun outlet where I could document my adventures and inspire others to explore the beauty around them. As I began to share more content, I was surprised to see my following grow as much as it did.

What started as a personal project has evolved into something larger. I’m eager to find ways to turn my passion into something more. I want to create opportunities that allow me to share my experiences and knowledge with a wider audience, whether through partnerships, merchandise, or events. It’s an exciting journey, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received along the way!

You had a solid following and then this season, you kind of exploded. What happened?

Up until last summer, I  only posted ski content. I was worried about backlash for sharing swimming holes. I feared that revealing too much would upset the locals or spoil the magic of these spots.

But this summer, I had a bit of an epiphany — I stopped caring so much about what others thought and began to embrace sharing what I love. I started posting about swimming holes, but I made sure to keep details vague to respect the places and the people who know them best. My goal isn’t to give it away, I want to inspire others to seek adventure.

Adding this additional dimension to my content grew my following and turned @themanwithinthemap into a year-round page, instead of just a winter-focused one. It’s been amazing to see the community grow as more people connect with the adventures I’m sharing.”

What motivates you?

I love building community around shared experiences. Engaging with my followers, hearing their stories, and seeing how my content resonates with them is incredibly fulfilling. It drives me create and share. I also find motivation in encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones, whether that’s trying a new sport or exploring a new location. Blogging allows me to document my adventures, but more importantly, it gives me the opportunity to inspire others to seek their own adventures and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us all.

Thanks for your time Shane, see you on the hill.

You’re welcome.