Vermont

End of Vermont + Trail Legends – The Trek

Published

2 years ago

August 11, 2022

Day 66

I used to be dropped off again on the trailhead very happy with my keep on the Catamount Motel. The proprietor runs an amazing deal for hikers. At $60 for a room, if I used to be mountain climbing with a path household, I might have paid lower than $30. Room was very clear and spacious. I additionally actually appreciated the city of Bennington.

I wasn’t positive what number of miles I wished to do. I had fairly just a few large climbs on the docket, and I began at 9:00. I began the day with the Glastenbury climb. I discovered it to be a really gradual climb. Wanting on farout makes climbs like these look very intimidating. It was smoother than I anticipated and the forests that lined the path was very nice to stroll via.

I made it to Story Spring Shelter round 5:00 as a result of I sensed a rainstorm was imminent. My hunch was appropriate because it began to dump rain the minute I settled contained in the shelter. The water supply at this shelter was among the finest on the path. Simply 100 yards north on the AT was ice chilly water with small waterfall that I used to be in a position to get my sawyer bag beneath. 5 different hikers made their approach to the shelter, all able to make this shelter dwelling for the night time because the rain continued to pour. This was what I anticipated of Vermont. That is alleged to be the muddiest state in any case. I waited for an hour till the rain stopped. I had already performed 20 miles for the day, and I felt like that simply wasn’t sufficient. I felt like I might make it over Stratton Mountain and camp at Stratton Pond Shelter. That’s simply one other 10 miles for the day. So at 6:00 I left the shelter and made my approach to the bottom of Stratton Mountain. The rain had stopped (or not less than I assumed), and I solely had a muddy path to cope with. Sadly as I began the climb as much as Stratton, a thunderstorm began out of nowhere (or perhaps it was there, and I didn’t catch onto the plain indicators). I trudged up the mountain at a sooner tempo than traditional. Thunder does a pleasant job at accelerating one’s tempo. After I made it to the highest of Stratton, water was gushing down from the clouds. I attempted to arrange camp at an apparent stealth website on the prime, however it was simply too moist. Moreover, water was speeding down the branches and leaves of timber like water flowing down a gutter from a roof. I briefly thought of sleeping up within the fireplace tower, however with the specter of lighting and thunder, I spotted that was a silly thought. I spotted I needed to carry on mountain climbing and make it to the shelter. Soaked, drained, and low in confidence, I hiked on.

The rain and thunder stopped whereas I used to be descending, and the sky opened as much as illuminate the summer time solar setting into the abyss. The moist path proved to be troublesome for me with sneakers that I’ve worn since Harpers Ferry. I slipped and fell on my backside twice whereas descending. Mud was tattooed on my pants and shirt. Darkness quickly overtook the path and the final three miles I hiked with my headlamp. My toes had been already so soaked that I didn’t even trouble to stroll round puddles that developed on the flatter components of the path. Ultimately I made it to Stratton Pond Shelter. It was 9:00, and the caretaker of the shelter was both absent or asleep as a result of nobody requested me to pay. I took off all of my garments and become my dry, quickly to be moist, sleep garments. Ate with my pink mild on as individuals snored within the shelter. I settled into the shelter and tried to sleep at round 11:00.

Miles: 30

Stratton Pond Shelter

Day 67

I woke as much as my gear nonetheless very moist. It’s fascinating waking up in a shelter whenever you arrived late as a result of I lastly received to see who I shared the shelter with. This primary 100 miles in Vermont is shared with the Lengthy Path, so the shelter was stuffed with SOBO and NOBO AT and Lengthy Path Hikers. I didn’t begin mountain climbing till 8:00 as a result of I wished some further time for my gear to dry.

The day was fairly simple. The hike as much as Bromley Mountain was one of many best climbs on this path to this point. For an enormous ski mountain I assumed it was going to be much more difficult, however it was one in every of greatest graded, longer climbs I had performed to this point. Some type path angel even left a field of doughnuts on the base of the climb.

PUDS and climbs to peaks like Peru preceded after Bromley, however they weren’t that difficult. I made it to Little Rock Pond Shelter the place I used to be nonetheless not greeted by a caretaker. The shelter was full of Lengthy Path and AT hikers. I even bumped into Wheels, a Trek Vlogger, who was mountain climbing the Lengthy Path along with her pal Nacho. This was in all probability my favourite shelter in Vermont. Apart from getting my water from the pond, the situation was spectacular.

Miles: 30

Little Rock Pond Shelter

Day 68

The climate stories had been predicting a thunder storm in the present day. I didn’t like this as I wished to get into Rutland that day in addition to climb Killington. I known as my two buddies Kylie and Susanne who had each hiked the path and inquired about whether or not or not Killington was secure to hike in a thunder storm. They each stated I needs to be superb. I hiked on.

The climb to Killington may be very deceptive. From the elevation map it appears like a 3-4 thousand foot acquire. However in actuality, there are two “quick” climbs which can be actually steep that set you up for the ultimate summit to Killington. Each are lower than 1 mile however I feel they’re each near 1000 toes in elevation acquire. After ending these robust climbs, I approached the “base” of Killington. The sky confirmed no indicators of a thunder storm however I used to be nonetheless uneasy. After just a few shut calls with lightning, I didn’t need to repeat any shut calls on one of many highest factors in Vermont. My buddies advised me I’d be superb, so I figured I’d take heed to them. The bonus of getting over Killington additionally can be that I’d be capable of get into Rutland.

The climb up Killington ended up being one in every of my favourite climbs. The primary half is fairly steep, and I discovered myself stopping just a few occasions to eat some meals. However as soon as I received near the alpine timber it modified. Numerous roots to barter, however nothing terribly troublesome. I received to the junction the place the summit was 0.1 miles on a blue blaze. This was one of many solely blue blaze views I might take. For 0.1 miles it felt lengthy. It was fairly steep, however the view was rewarding. I stood on prime of Vermont and had a view of the Inexperienced Mountains from above. I seemed South and noticed a storm cloud that seemed like was going to overlook my basic space. The storm missed me. I assumed I’d have fun by shopping for lunch on the concession stand and driving the chairlift.

After of an hour leisure, I made my means down the mountain to US Route 4 the place a shuttle driver picked me as much as get into Rutland. I used to be staying on the Yellow Deli! I knew I used to be in for a pleasant clear bunk with good meals close to. I used to be hungry so i truly had 1st dinner at an Indian Restaurant close by after which got here again to the Yellow Deli for 2nd dinner. 12 tribes didn’t disappoint. One other unbelievable sandwich and stick with them.

Miles: 30

Yellow Deli

Day 69

I received a shuttle again to the path. The plan wasn’t to do something loopy in the present day. I used to be nonetheless 40 miles away from Hanover, and I deliberate on neroing there earlier than I hit the scary state of New Hampshire. This present day was filled with PUDS. Going up and down hills was the theme for a lot of the day. No actual good views that I can recall. Simply a whole lot of traversing the inexperienced mountains in its limitless ups and downs. I used to be extra drained than I had ever been. I made a decision I wished to remain at a hostel and absolutely recuperate. I had gotten to the Yellow Deli fairly late and had lower than two hours to myself earlier than I made a decision to sleep. Additionally I wasn’t in a position to wash my garments in Rutland as a result of the washer broke. It was 3:00 and perhaps in the present day I’d get some a lot wanted relaxation. Luckily for me a brand new hostel had opened in Woodstock, Vermont. It’s fairly a Mattress and Breakfast, however one of many homeowners had via hiked the AT just a few years again and was pleasant in the direction of hikers. Place was known as Smart Pines. Proprietor picked me up and took me to this extravagant tree home. I slept on probably the most comfy beds that night time. I LOVE WISE PINES. Necessary notice: The proprietor was in a position to tip me off to a very good Kombucha model based mostly in Vermont known as Aquavitea. In all probability my favourite kombucha model on the east coast now.

Miles: 23

Smart Pines

Day 70

Smart Pines dropped me off again on the trailhead, and I nonetheless had one other 24 onerous miles to get into Hanover. The day was filled with extra PUDS. It appears that evidently all the foremost mountains in Vermont had been hiked or had been on the Lengthy Path. I ran right into a SOBO who glided by the title Rerun. Apparently he had performed the path years earlier than. He wished me luck and advised me I had some onerous miles forward. I used to be assuming he was referring to New Hampshire and Maine.

I descended from a small hill after I noticed a white van parked alongside the facet of an previous dust street. I wasn’t positive if the path was straight or I needed to take a left. There was a person contained in the van who pointed for me to show left and stated “the path is that means.” I thanked him and continued down. Three miles later I received to a different street crossing. This time, that man who was within the van three miles again was sitting on the bottom studying a newspaper. He requested me if I had seen two woman runners behind me wherein I stated I didn’t. He then requested about how far and how briskly I used to be going wherein I responded that it was day 70, and I used to be attempting to complete this path in beneath 90 days. I proceeded to inform him about my plan for New Hampshire and the way I wished to camp on the base of Moosilauke and climb it within the morning. He appeared to approve of my plan and even supplied me some recommendation of his personal. He talked about Stringbean and Scott Jurek working this path and difficulties they confronted within the upcoming part. He even relayed the information that Captain Morgan, the person making an attempt the NOBO FKT, had completed his hike and missed the report by two days. He stated that he simply received off the cellphone with Captain Morgan. At this level I used to be very confused. Who was this man? How does he have such an in depth data of the path? And he is aware of Captain Morgan? I used to be very confused.

I thanked him for his time, and I continued on down the path. However I used to be alerted by the sound of a hiker behind me. It was a feminine hiker. A runner extra so. She had a path working pack against a pack like mine. She caught up with me and launched herself as Meg. She was one of many feminine runners the person I had met was crewing. They had been working the AT in sections as a result of that they had full time jobs that they couldn’t simply take day off of. Her different associate Celia was simply behind. I needed to ask the query: “Who’s the person crewing you guys?”

“That’s Warren Doyle.” Anybody unfamiliar with him can do a fast google search.

Meg, Celia, and I hiked collectively for the rest of the day. I received a lift of power after I realized I used to be within the presence of hiker royalty. The 2 women had been type sufficient to let me hike with them they usually even satisfied me to hike additional than Hanover. Actually, I did an additional 8 miles with them after I received to Hanover. I did a fast cease to an area marketplace for dinner that night time after which all of us hit the path once more. Warren met us at a number of street crossings to supply water and meals for the women, and Andrew Thompson, one other path legend, met us at one of many crossings to supply some path magic. We completed the day on the base of Moose Mountain. The 2 women camped in Warren’s van whereas I camped close to a creek 1/4 mile forward of them. We deliberate on beginning early within the morning collectively to do one last assertion day.

Miles: 32

Base of Moose Mountain

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Vermont

7 Best Lakeside Towns in Vermont

Published

4 hours ago

January 11, 2025

Press Room

Vermont, the Green Mountain State, is known for its mountain ranges, which tourists can appreciate at popular parks, such as Smuggler’s Notch State Park. However, with over 800 lakes in the state, you can’t discount the plentiful water bodies available for recreation. Vermont is a haven of nature with lakes such as Arrowhead Mountain Lake, Lake Memphremagog, and Lake Champlain, which are tourist and resident favorites due to their historical legends and thrilling water activities. This state is filled with more beautiful lakes and communities by the water than you can imagine, from the shire town of Newport to the historic terrains of Whitingham. Discover the best lakeside towns to visit in Vermont on your next vacation.

Shelburne

Ticonderoga was a steamboat served on Lake Champlain in 19th century in Shelburne, Vermont. Image credit Wangkun Jia via Shutterstock

Shelburne is one of Vermont’s most visited locations, just seven miles to the south of Burlington. It is set along the shores of Lake Champlain and got its name as a form of tribute to a great British Parliamentarian and Prime Minister, William Petty, 2nd Earl of Shelburne. The community is known for its early agricultural enterprise before diversifying into shipping following the War of 1812. The Shelburne Museum documents the events of the war and other happenings that shaped the area’s development. It also houses thousands of decorative items, steamboats, and carriages that paint a vivid picture of its past.

Stroll in the cool of the day to Shelburne Farms, where you can find much more information about the storied agricultural essence that formed Shelburne. The Farmer’s Market is just a short walk away, and the same goes for Shelburne Vineyards and Orchards, which supply the Farmer’s Market. To get close views of Lake Champlain, take a trip to Shelburne Town Beach, where you can enjoy evening strolls and picnics. Hike across the Shelburne Bay Park hiking area to get more scenic views of the creek.

Whitingham

Whitingham outwits you with all its charm, from its lakeside views to its serene outdoors. It is known as the birthplace of Brigham Young, the second president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, who was born in 1801. The community has a monument erected to this effect, the Brigham Young Monument.

The atmosphere that envelopes Whitingham is truly lovely, and there are opportunities to get a whiff of the natural environment. Take the historic tour for an eye-opening experience. What is even more interesting about the historic tour is that you can take it by car or bike. Learn more about Whitingham at the Whitingham Historical Society before taking a hike at the Catamount Trail.

Fairfield

Fairfield is a brimming lakeside community on Fairfield Pond lake with a rich heritage. It is a 446-acre body of water on the northwest of Fairfield. The Fairfield area is known as the birthplace of Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, Fairfield celebrates its presidential legacy at the Chester A. Arthur Historic Site. This preserved homestead offers visitors insight into the life of one of America’s lesser-known leaders and the region’s history during the mid-19th century.

The Fairfield Community Center, housed in a 19th-century school building, is another noteworthy site. It reflects the town’s enduring dedication to community engagement and historic preservation. For those interested in Vermont’s rural heritage, Fairfield Pond provides a serene escape, surrounded by open fields that are reminiscent of the city’s agricultural roots. Apart from the ancient landmarks, you can also explore natural settings that make the community more fun. These include the Metcalf Pond and the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail.

Charlotte

Along the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, one of Vermont’s picturesque lakeside towns, seizes the attention of many. Charlotte is a quaint Vermont settlement that is rich in historical significance and natural allure. It is perhaps best known for the Charlotte-Essex Ferry, which has connected Vermont to New York since the early 19th century, with breathtaking views of the water and the Adirondack Mountains. Charlotte’s history is documented at the Old Brick Store, a famed general store that has served as a community hub since 1853 and continues to provide locally crafted goods and treats.

The agricultural economy that once shaped Charlotte is still very much alive. Philo Ridge Farm and Adam’s Berry Farm are two of the most popular, and they serve local produce to the market. The farms are quite serene and are maintained by very hospitable families who are willing to indulge in conversations about Charlotte’s early days. While you are out, be sure to check out Mount Philo State Park. The park has a reputation that speaks for itself. It is Vermont’s oldest state park, and you can also enjoy stunning views of the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain. The spaces are equipped with benches and rails where you can just unwind and take pictures while enjoying the view.

Newport

Newport is a unique settlement in Vermont. Although it is located on the shores of Lake Memphremagog, Newport is the shire town of Orleans County with the second largest population in the county with just over 4,000 people and also has the smallest geographical area in the county (19.68 square kilometers).

The community’s crown jewel, the Goodrich Memorial Library, is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture and a repository of ancient information. Visitors can explore its intricate design and learn about Newport’s cultural heritage through its archives.

Lake Memphremagog itself is steeped in legend, with tales of Memphré, the creek’s mythical creature, adding an air of mystery. Waterfront attractions like the Gateway Center celebrate the river’s significance, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic vistas and hiking trails along the Beebe Spur Rail Trail and the Prouty Beach and Campground.

Addison

If you are wondering what early New England life felt like, then you need to add Addison to your list of lakeside Vermont places to visit. Addison greets you with New England charm and a whole lot of options on where to tour. The city’s crown jewel is the Chimney Point State Historic Site, located where Lake Champlain narrows at the Crown Point Bridge. This site highlights the area’s significance during the French and Indian War and its role in early European settlement.

Snake Mountain Trail is always a point of interest for travelers because of its picturesque setting and location, and it is easily accessible to all. The trail is flanked by trees that cover hikers from the sun and form a beautiful picture backdrop of leaf canopies. It is good for evening strolls and hangouts. Additionally, the D.A.R. State Park is a great spot for wildlife and nature lovers. The park has open spaces for picnics and extensive hiking trails, and its proximity to the lake makes it ideal for water and winter sports. The reflection of trees on the waters creates a picture-perfect view and allows for a connection to Vermont’s natural heritage.

Ferrisburgh

Ferrisburgh is near Lake Champlain, Little Otter Creek, and Kingsland Bay, which makes a no-brainer when mentioning the best lakeside town in Vermont. Founded in 1762, Ferrisburgh is steeped in history and complemented by commercial landmarks.

Rokeby Museum, the most documented underground railroad and also a National Historic Landmark, stands as a poignant reminder of Vermont’s abolitionist movement and its role in the Underground Railroad. The museum’s preserved buildings and exhibits give an intimate look at the lives of the Robinson family, who championed social justice causes. Dakin Farm is another attraction with cultural significance. It is a family-owned, multi-generational business that has been running since 1792. Visitors will enjoy a trip to Kingsland Bay State Park, where they can spend the afternoons just chilling or having great conversations in a nice and cozy environment.

Whether you are visiting to learn more about the famed stories of Shelburne or exploring history at Fairfield, Vermont is replete with attractions that can help you declutter and feel at ease. Each area has its own heritage, creating diversity at every turn, from the pristine waters of its lakes to the picturesque backdrop of its parks. Vermont caters to the feelings of every traveler and creates a wonderful experience for anyone looking to relish the charm of a lakeside town.

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Vermont

Vermont H.S. sports scores for Saturday, Jan. 11: See how your favorite team fared

Published

13 hours ago

January 11, 2025

Press Room

Vermont H.S. sports scores for Saturday, Jan. 11: See how your favorite team fared

The 2024-2025 Vermont high school winter season has begun. See below for scores, schedules and game details (statistical leaders, game notes) from basketball, hockey, gymnastics, wrestling, Nordic/Alpine skiing and other winter sports.

TO REPORT SCORES

Coaches or team representatives are asked to report results ASAP after games by emailing sports@burlingtonfreepress.com. Please submit with a name/contact number.

►Contact Alex Abrami at aabrami@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter:@aabrami5.

►Contact Judith Altneu at jaltneu@gannett.com. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter: @Judith_Altneu.

SATURDAY, JAN. 11

Boys basketball

Games at 2:30 p.m. unless noted

Hartford at Middlebury, 12:30 p.m.

Missisquoi at Lake Region, 1:30 p.m.

Milton at BFA-St. Albans

Williamstown at Northfield, 6:30 p.m.

Girls basketball

Games at 2:30 p.m. unless noted

Danville at Winooski, 11 a.m.

Spaulding at Milton, 11:30 a.m.

Mount Mansfield at Colchester, 12:30 p.m.

Otter Valley at Mount Abraham, 12:30 p.m.

Montpelier at Stowe, 1 p.m.

Richford at Enosburg

Peoples at Twinfield/Cabot

Brattleboro at South Burlington

Burr and Burton at Champlain Valley

Rutland at St. Johnsbury

Williamstown at BFA-Fairfax, 3:30 p.m.

Boys hockey

Essex at Hartford, 2 p.m.

Burlington at U-32, 2:30 p.m.

Mount Mansfield at St. Johnsbury, 3 p.m.

Milton vs North Country at Jay Peak, 4 p.m.

Harwood at Stowe, 4:15 p.m.

South Burlington at Champlain Valley, 4:45 p.m.

Brattleboro at Woodstock, 6:45 p.m.

Rice at Burr and Burton, 7 p.m.

Spaulding at Middlebury, 7 p.m.

Rutland at Colchester, 7:30 p.m.

Girls hockey

Spaulding at Rutland, 11 a.m.

Woodstock at Brattleboro, 4:45 p.m.

Harwood at Burr and Burton, 5 p.m.

Rice at Burlington/Colchester, 5 p.m.

Stowe at Middlebury, 5 p.m.

Essex at BFA-St. Albans, 7 p.m.

U-32 at Kingdom Blades, 7 p.m.

Gymnastics

Harwood at Burlington, 2 p.m.

Montpelier, St. Johnsbury at South Burlington, 7:30 p.m.

Wrestling

Michael J. Baker Classic at Essex

MONDAY, JAN. 13

Boys basketball

Games at 7 p.m. unless noted

Randolph at North Country, 6:30 p.m.

Harwood at U-32

Winooski at Twinfield/Cabot

Northfield at Milton

Brattleboro at Champlain Valley

Thetford at Williamstown

Oxbow at Hazen

Girls basketball

Vergennes at BFA-Fairfax, 7 p.m.

Essex at Burlington, 7:30 p.m.

(Subject to change)

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Vermont

Scott’s plan to cut school spending worries some educators

Published

1 day ago

January 10, 2025

Press Room

Scott’s plan to cut school spending worries some educators

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Vermont educators are leery of plans from Gov. Phil Scott to control costs in Vermont’s education system. In Thursday’s inaugural address, Scott pitched sweeping plans to rein in spending which has led to skyrocketing property tax rates.

Last year, one-third of Vemont’s school budgets failed and voters sent more Republicans to Montpelier in years in what some dubbed a tax revolt.

Democrats say everything should be on the table to fix the tax troubles, but some in the education community remain wary.

In his address, the governor outlined a multiyear plan to overhaul how we fund public schools and rein in the cost of spending which has skyrocketed to $2.3 billion.

“In too many districts, teachers aren’t paid enough, administrators are tied up in bureaucracy, schools have too much empty space and many are in disrepair,” said Scott, R-Vermont.

He proposes consolidating dozens of school districts and supervisory unions, putting guardrails on local school spending and completely rewriting the school funding formula with the aim of cutting back on staff and the 80% of school costs that go to wages and benefits.

But some in Vermont’s education community see it another way.

“We have to be clear what is the problem we’re trying to solve. We’re not spending too much money in public education; we’re having a difficult time funding it,” said Don Tinney the executive director of the Vermont NEA.

The Vermont teachers union contends the state has enough taxing capacity to fund schools and students’ complex needs. But they say the state should instead fund schools through state and income tax instead of a property tax.

“We believe the income tax is the fairest way of doing that because people are paying what they can afford to pay,” Tinney said.

As for the funding formula, Scott argues more affluent towns that can afford higher property taxes spend more and approve their local budgets, which drives up costs in the statewide education fund.

“Those higher spenders can actually increase the rates of those districts whose kids and teachers are getting less,” Scott said.

The governor is expected to introduce a formula where districts are paid a flat rate and any additional spending would have to be raised locally.

But some worry that will lead to inequitable opportunities for kids.

“There are states that use foundation formulas to keep poor people poor and drive down public education costs and allow for more opportunities for private schools and school choice schemes. I can’t see Vermont allowing that to happen,” said Jay Nichols of the Vermont Principals’ Association.

Vermonters are still staring down a 6% property tax increase if school budgets as drafted pass on Town Meeting Day.

Scott says in the weeks ahead, he will unveil ideas to hold taxpayers harmless and keep taxes flat.

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