Capturing the Moment

  Nestled in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains, Smugglers' Notch is a hidden gem that truly comes alive during the fall season. As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there's no better way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this region than by hiking the Sterling Pond Trail. In this post, I'll take you on a journey through this picturesque trail, highlighting the stunning fall foliage and the unique experiences it offers. View from the parking area at the top of Smugglers Notch. The Sterling Pond Trail is a moderate-to-strenuous 2.4-mile out-and-back hike that starts at the Smugglers' Notch parking area. This trail is renowned not only for its challenging terrain but also for the breathtaking views it provides, especially during the fall foliage season. Here's a glimpse of what the conditions were like today on this unforgettable hike. Fall foliage in Vermont is renowned for its vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold, and hiking the S...

  I was looking to do a bit of exploration today with my little hiking buddy (my 1.5 year old daughter.) I had heard several things about how good the view was from the Stowe Pinnacle hike, and stumbled upon the trailhead a few weeks ago, so that is where we headed. Dela and me are all smiles as we start out our exploratory hike at the Stowe Pinnacle Trail. It turns out there are two starting points. We chose the Pinnacle Meadows option as it was the first that we saw signs for. A section of the forest had been cleared, high above the town of Stowe for developement, but luckily the Stowe Land Trust swooped in, bought the land, and it has stayed a beautiful meadow ever since. A marker recognizing all those who helped fund the purchase and preservation of this land. I'm so glad it isn't another series of condos. The trail enters the forest past the meadow and eventually meets up with the Stowe Pinnacle Trail, coming up from the second trailhead. From here the trail starts to head...

  Its always great having a house guests because it gives you a chance to play the tourist, and check out things in your home town that you don't normally get to stop and appreciate. This time it was mom in town, inspiring a scenic walk around downtown Stowe. It didn't take long to walk around the downtown area because it is only a few blocks. The focal point is the Stowe Community Church. Founded in 1863, it is an open, non denominational church right in the center of iconic Stowe, Vermont. After checking out some of the general stores on Main street, we took a short detour to walk through a pedestrian covered bridge. Looking down at all the green, surrounding the town and the river, it seemed like one of the most peaceful places you could imagine calling home. Mom posing in front of the Stowe community church Entering the covered walking bridge Taking in the peaceful vibes and gorgeous views

  Located on the shores of Lake Champlain, in Vermont, USA, Shelburne Farms is a National Historical Landmark. While walking around the estate grounds, you definitely get the feel of a Gilded Age, ornamental farm. The grounds are massive, and very well manicured. I learned that it was originally designed by Frederick Law Olmstead at the behest of its owners, William Seward Webb and Elisa Osgood Vanderbilt.  Mom and I received a map and informational pamphlet at the entrance, and learned that to see all the hotspots, we needed to walk about 4.5 miles. I couldn't believe that there was no entry fee. The farms are an educational nonprofit with a mission to inspire and cultivate learning for a sustainable future. The Farm Building We ended up following the advice of the check in guy, and walked towards the massive farm building. It looked like a castle, with its towering turrets and perfect symmetry. Inside the gates we found we were a little early for the bakery, but the woodshop...