• 4 Must-See Fall Foliage Stops

    Posted onBy in categories Biking , Climbing , Hiking , Local , Positive News

    Pumpkin spice? Nah. We’re talking real autumn vibes – the kind that Mother Nature paints across Vermont and New York each fall. Think fiery reds, golden yellows, and every shade in between, turning mountains into masterpieces.

    We’ve crafted the perfect route, hitting iconic spots and hidden gems. Starting in charming Stowe, Vermont, we’ll wind through the Green Mountains, then cross into New York’s Adirondacks. Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and finally, picturesque Woodstock, Vermont, round out this visual feast.

    Must-See Stops

    • Smugglers’ Notch: Locals know: Rt. 108 closes for winter! Catch those hair-pin turns and jaw-dropping views before the snow flies.
    • Lake Champlain: Ferry across for mountain panoramas that’ll make your phone storage beg for mercy.
    • Whiteface Mountain: Gondola or drive up for views that’ll make you feel on top of the world (literally).
    • Ausable Chasm & Quechee Gorge: Nature’s drama at its finest – rivers carving through rock, creating the perfect fall foliage backdrop.

    This ain’t just about leaves, though. It’s charming towns, historic sites, and outdoor fun. Hike, kayak, or just stroll – this trip leaves you refreshed and in awe of nature’s show.

    So, grab your camera, hit the road, and let the colors lead the way!

  • Top Adirondack Hiking Trails

    Posted onBy in categories Climbing , Hiking , Local , Positive Newstagged#adirondacks , #iloveny

    September is a fantastic time to hike in the Adirondacks. The weather is usually mild, and the fall foliage adds a spectacular splash of color to the landscape. Here are some of the best trails to explore in this area during September:

      1. Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain Trail
    Image of PokeOMoonshine Mountain Trail, Adirondacks Opens in a new window www.protectadks.org
    • Location: Near Keeseville, NY
    • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
    • Highlights: Breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding mountains, unique rock formations, and a fire tower at the summit of Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain.
    • September Appeal: The fall foliage views from the summit are simply stunning.
      1. Catamount Mountain Trail
    Image of Catamount Mountain Trail, Adirondacks Opens in a new window www.protectadks.org
    • Location: Near Willsboro, NY
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Highlights: Scenic vistas of Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains of Vermont, and the High Peaks of the Adirondacks.
    • September Appeal: The trail offers a mix of hardwood and evergreen forests, creating a beautiful tapestry of fall colors.
      1. Buck Mountain Trail
    Image of Buck Mountain Trail, Adirondacks Opens in a new window www.protectadks.org
    • Location: Near Lake George, NY
    • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
    • Highlights: Panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding mountains, diverse terrain, and a fire tower at the summit.
    • September Appeal: The trail winds through a mix of hardwood and coniferous forests, providing a colorful display of fall foliage.
      1. Sleeping Beauty Mountain Trail
    Image of Sleeping Beauty Mountain Trail, Adirondacks Opens in a new window www.protectadks.org
    • Location: Near Lake George, NY
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Highlights: Spectacular views of Lake George, the surrounding mountains, and the village of Lake George, relatively short hike with a rewarding summit.
    • September Appeal: The summit offers a 360-degree panorama of fall foliage, making it a popular choice in September.
      1. Mount Defiance Trail
    Image of Mount Defiance Trail, Adirondacks Opens in a new window www.alltrails.com
    • Location: Near Fort Ticonderoga
    • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
    • Highlights: Historical significance, scenic views of Lake Champlain and Fort Ticonderoga, and a relatively short hike.
    • September Appeal: The trail is less crowded in September, offering a peaceful experience and beautiful fall colors.

    Additional Tips for Hiking in September:

    • Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
    • Dress in layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures.
    • Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support.
    • Bring plenty of water and snacks.
    • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife.
    • Leave no trace and pack out everything you pack in.

    Enjoy your September hikes in the Adirondacks!

  • Hiking with Puppy Power: Take The VT Hiking Dog Challenge

    Posted onBy in categories Climbing , Hiking , Local , Pets , Positive News , River , Travel & Adventure , Vermont State Parkstagged#dogsofvt , #hikevt

    If you love hiking with Fido, you don’t want to miss out on the VT Hiking Dog Challenge. For a $10 donation, you’ll receive a list of 35 hand-picked bike paths, rail trails and summits across the state. Finish at least 10 of them and you’ll be entered to win a “pawsome” prize.

    READ THE FULL STORY COURTESY OF SEVEN DAYS HERE

  • Whetstone Beer Brews Pints for Vermont's State Parks

    Posted onBy in categories Biking , Climbing , Hiking , Local , Positive News

    for Seven Days

    Published May 17, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

    The founders of Whetstone Beer in Brattleboro have always been fond of public parks. For the brewery’s 10th anniversary last summer, the company rebranded with a motif that mimics the iconic national park travel posters that were created during the New Deal era to ramp up tourism.

    SEE FULL ARTICLE HERE

    It’s only fitting, then, that Whetstone’s newest project honors the natural spaces in its own backyard. The company plans to brew two limited-edition beers each year that are inspired by Vermont state parks. Dubbed Pints for Parks and launched this month, the project will funnel $1 from every draft beer or four-pack sold to Vermont Parks Forever, a nonprofit that fundraises for park improvements and provides free visitor passes to underserved communities.