Tag: Brewery

Minnesota’s Majestic Summit

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Minnesota, Eagle Mountain may not seem as awe-inspiring as some of the country’s gigantic peaks, but it is truly Minnesota’s crown jewel. Standing at 2,301 feet, Eagle Mountain holds the 37th position among State High Points, and visiting it marked my 32nd state high point. It calls to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, promising a hike filled with adventure and stunning scenery.

Bear Spray or Bare Confidence?

Before we get to the summit, let me set the stage for my Eagle Mountain adventure. Picture this: a remote hike in the heart of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA)—a million acres of rugged, boreal forest where nature reigns supreme. Naturally, the first thing on my mind was protection. I stopped at the Bay Trip Licensing & Outfitters Store in Silver Bay to inquire about bear spray. After a quick chat, I decided to forgo it, trusting my wilderness skills and the low likelihood of a bear encounter. Armed with my NOLS Wilderness First Aid certification, Backcountry Navigation skills, and a healthy respect for the wild, I felt ready to tackle Minnesota’s highest natural point and this rugged country. But the true twist of irony came at the end of this hike, courtesy of Carlton. Stay tuned for the rest of the story.

*Photo:* The Expansive Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA)

Permit, Please!

Before hitting the trail, I swung by the Tofte Ranger District Station to grab a day-use permit—super easy, no fee, and no quota. The ranger hooked me up with a map, which I highly recommend you do as well, because even though the trail isn’t exactly Everest, it’s good to know where you’re going. Note: You can fill out a permit at the trailhead, but be sure to note that you’re at Entry Point #79.

After a quick drive along MN 61 and a turn onto Caribou Trail, I was on a dirt road that led me to the Eagle Mountain trailhead. There was only one other car there, a young family with a toddler gearing up for the hike. Watching them, I couldn’t help but wonder how they’d manage the bugs—especially since the mosquitoes were out in full force. I actually kept a can of bug spray in my side pocket, reapplying it as I made my way to the summit—a move I highly recommend if you want to avoid becoming a mosquito buffet.

Photos: The Road to Adventure | Trailhead Parking Lot

Photos: Trail Info and Permit Box | Trailhead Start

Hitting the Trail: Balancing Acts and Bear Scat

The hike itself kicks off with a mostly flat, 2.5-mile stretch through a beautiful, forested area. The path has a few ups and downs, but nothing major. The trail, while not perfectly marked, is easy to follow, with just enough boardwalks to make you feel like Simone Biles on a balance beam. The first major landmark is Whale Lake— a picturesque spot where I hoped to catch a glimpse of a moose. No luck there, but the view was a decent consolation prize.

Photos: Channeling My Inner Simone Biles – Tackling the Trail’s Balance Beams

Photos: Entering the Boundary Waters Canoe Area | A Perfect Spot to see a Moose, or Not

As you move past Whale Lake, the trail splits—left to Eagle Mountain Summit and straight ahead to Brule Lake Trail. The ascent begins here, and it’s where the hike gets a bit more interesting. Fresh bear dung on the trail had me second-guessing my earlier decision to forgo bear spray, but I pressed on, keeping an eye out for any movement in the woods. At around 3.1 miles in, you’re greeted by your first real view, which is nothing short of spectacular.

Photos: The Trail Junction | Kicking Off the Climb

Photos: Scat and Tracks

The Summit and Views Worth the Sweat (and Maybe a Few Mosquito Bites)

From the first overlook, it’s a short jaunt to the Eagle Mountain Overlook—stunning, but not the summit itself (the actual summit doesn’t offer views). I knew the real deal was a bit higher up. Honestly, I was so excited to catch the view that I wasn’t paying much attention to the trail, which isn’t exactly the best marked. Once you hit the clearing, take a right toward the big boulder with a cairn on top—that’s your signal. Follow the path into the woods, and you’ll soon find the true high point, proudly marked by a plaque with a mini-history lesson on Minnesota geology. And just behind it, you’ll spot the official geomarker, certifying your summit success!! I took the obligatory summit selfie, savoring the moment before the inevitable onslaught of mosquitoes had me on the move again.

Photos: Summit Ahead – Cairn Under the Big Pine Tree | Boulder & Cairn Marker

Photos: Trail into the Woods | Heading Up to the Summit | Alas the Summit through the Trees

Photos: Summit Plaque – A Geology History Lesson | Geomarker – Minnesota’s High Point!

Craig the Duluth Dude: Local Expert

I headed back to the Eagle Mountain Overlook, hoping the breeze would fend off the mosquitoes while I munched on a quick snack. That’s when I bumped into Craig, a fellow hiker who’d set out just after I did. Craig, hailing from Duluth, was a wealth of local knowledge and tipped me off about checking out Grand Marais. As we swapped stories and identified the lakes in the distance—Shrike Lake in the foreground and Zoo Lake just behind it—the family with the toddler arrived, followed by a steady stream of other hikers reaching the summit. After wrapping up our chat, I geared up for the descent and set off, with a bit of local wisdom and a good conversation fueling the way back.

*Photo:* Parting Shot: Shrike Lake in the foreground and Zoo Lake just behind it

Carlton Banks and the Country Club Crew

The descent was quicker, thanks to my irresistible urge to trail run (as much as I could in my hiking boots, lol) and the fact that running kept the mosquitoes at bay. Along the way, I passed a few more hikers.

As I was wrapping up my hike at the trailhead, I spotted a family who looked like they’d wandered out of a country club rather than a wilderness trail. Picture this: a dad who could’ve been Carlton from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, showing up with no backpacks, no poles, and just a couple of water bottles. Fortunately, a couple of seasoned hikers in a camper van came to the rescue with a can of bug spray. After giving them a quick rundown on the day-use permit and making sure they were set, I headed off to Grand Marais, half-chuckling at the impending misadventures awaiting them and half-wondering how anyone could be so unprepared.

Grand Marais: The Perfect Post-Hike Chill Spot

Craig’s recommendation didn’t disappoint. Grand Marais is the kind of lakeside village that makes you want to kick back and stay awhile. I parked near World’s Best Donuts (didn’t try them, so the jury’s still out), and explored the town. First stop: Artist Point, where Lake Superior stretches out like an endless canvas. A quick stroll took me to the Grand Marais Lighthouse, a charming relic that’s seen its fair share of storms. I wrapped up my visit with a trip to Voyageur Brewing Company, enjoying a locally crafted beer on their rooftop bar while chatting with the bartender who moved there for a summer and ended up staying—eight years ago! Whether you’re into art, history, or just good beer, Grand Marais is a solid spot to unwind after tackling Eagle Mountain.

Photos: Heading out to Artist Point | Looking out on Lake Superior

Photos: Stunning views from Artist Point, including a glance back at Grand Marais

Photos: The Harbor | Giving my ‘dogs’ a well-deserved cool-down

Photos: Grand Marais Lighthouse

Photos: Voyageur Brewing – the Perfect End to a Great Day!

Run, Don’t Walk (But Maybe Walk First)

Eagle Mountain may not have the height of the Rockies, but it’s got heart—and a hike that’s worth every step. Between the forested trails, panoramic views, and quirky encounters (shoutout to Craig and the Carlton Banks family), this adventure is one for the books. So lace up those hiking boots, grab your camera, and maybe, just maybe, pack some bear spray. Next up: Tettegouche State Park – Part 2.

Catch you on the Road!

Pro Tips for Hiking Eagle Mountain

Grab a Permit and Map: Before hitting the trail, swing by the Tofte Ranger District Station to get your free day-use permit and a map. It’s a breeze, and while the trail isn’t Everest, it helps to know where you’re going. You can also fill out a permit at the trailhead, but make sure to note you’re at Entry Point #79.
Bear Spray or Not?: While bear encounters are unlikely, it’s always good to be prepared. If you’re more comfortable carrying bear spray, it’s a reasonable precaution. Otherwise, trust your wilderness skills and be aware of your surroundings.
Be Prepared for Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can be fierce in the summer. Pack a can of bug spray and keep it handy. I found it useful to apply it as I hiked—this way, you can avoid turning into a mosquito buffet.
The True Summit: The trail can be a bit tricky with its markings near the summit. From the first overlook, hike through the woods, when you come to a clearing, make a right and head towards the large boulder with a cairn on top. Follow the path into the woods to find the true summit, marked by a plaque and the official geomarker. It’s worth a bit of extra effort!
Post-Hike Chill in Grand Marais: After your adventure, head to Grand Marais for a relaxing end to your day. The lakeside town offers great spots like Artist Point and Voyageur Brewing Company, perfect for unwinding and savoring the day’s achievements.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park | Michigan

By Stephen

On August 31, 2024

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

A Michigan Gem

Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders and breathtaking beauty. With nearly 50,000 acres of pristine wilderness, this park is home to one of the most impressive waterfall systems east of the Mississippi, drawing nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. Beyond the falls, Tahquamenon Falls State Park boasts over 35 miles of hiking trails that weave through dense forests, scenic overlooks, and along the picturesque Tahquamenon River. So, grab your bug spray, lace up those hiking boots, and let’s dive into my adventure through this U.P. gem!

Pronunciation Tip: Tahquamenon is pronounced tuh-KWAH-muh-non.

The Mighty Tahquamenon Falls

The crown jewels of Tahquamenon Falls State Park are undoubtedly the waterfalls themselves. The park features two main sets of falls: the Upper and Lower Falls. The Upper Falls, often referred to as the “Root Beer Falls” due to their distinctive amber color, are a sight to behold. Spanning 200 feet across and dropping nearly 50 feet, this waterfall is the second largest in volume east of the Mississippi River, only trailing Niagara Falls in size! The unique hue of the water is thanks to tannins leached from the cedar swamps that feed into the river—nature’s very own chemistry experiment. Visiting the Upper Falls offers multiple viewing platforms and trails that allow you to marvel at the roaring waters from various angles.

The Lower Falls offer a more intimate yet equally mesmerizing experience. This series of five smaller cascades encircle an island, accessible by rowboat or a charming footbridge. Exploring the island and the surrounding waters is like stepping into a tranquil escape—perfect for a leisurely day of picnicking, swimming, and photography.

*Photo:* Two of the Smaller Cascades that make up the Lower Falls

Roadtrips and Sunsets

I arrived in the afternoon, eager to explore. After checking into my campsite at the Rivermouth Campground, I couldn’t resist a quick detour north to Whitefish Point (check out my other post on Road Trippin’: The U.P.) – Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and the historic Whitefish Point Lighthouse. On the way back to camp, I made a couple of stops that were just too good to pass up.

First, I swung by the Rivermouth Roadside Park, a small but scenic spot on the Lake Superior shoreline. Michigan seems to have a thing for these roadside parks, and honestly, I’m here for it. They’re like little oases for travelers, offering a place to picnic, rest, and soak in the scenery. A short hop down the road brought me to Clark Point Trail. Calling it a trail is a bit generous—it’s more like a quick walk from the parking lot to the lake—but it was fun exploring the shoreline. This spot is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, so bring your binoculars if that’s your thing.

Photos: Views from Rivermouth Roadside Park | And from the Clark Point Trail

Back at camp, I settled in for the evening with a campfire and dinner. But the real treat came later, as I headed to the campground’s beach on the Tahquamenon River. With golden hour approaching, I grabbed a cold one, found a log to perch on, and let nature’s show unfold before me. There’s something magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon while the river flows quietly by—it’s the perfect way to end a full day of adventure.

Photos: My Campsite | The Evening’s Fire

Photos: The Tahquamenon River – great for Kayaking | Enjoying a Cold One!

Photos: Enjoying Nature’s Show | Golden Hour at the Tahquamenon River

*Photo:* The Perfect Way to End the Day!

No time to wait on late rangers

First, A note to fellow adventurers: Tahquamenon Falls has two main entrances, one at the Upper Falls and the other at the Lower Falls. It’s not uncommon to see long lines, especially in the morning or around 3 PM when campers are checking in.

Photo: Lower Falls Entrance from the Parking Lot | Hard to Get Lost Here!

Photos: Lower Falls Map | Upper Falls Map

*Photo:* Tahquamenon Falls State Park Map

The next morning, I was up early and ready to hit the trails. My first stop was the Lower Falls. After waiting a bit for the entrance booth to open on time at 8:00 AM (spoiler alert: it didn’t), I decided to get a head start on my day. I wasn’t going to let the rangers late start ruin my plans! Just up from the parking lot, there’s a handy area with bathrooms, the Lower Tahquamenon Falls Café & Gift Shop, and even rowboat rentals for exploring the Tahquamenon River. The hike from the gift shop to the Lower Falls is only a half-mile, mostly on a raised boardwalk. Being early, I had the place almost to myself, save for a few other early risers. Along the way, you’ll spot a wooden plaque featuring the Prayer of the Woods—a reminder to be mindful and respectful of the natural beauty around us.

Photos: Bear Cubs at Play – a sculpture at the entrance | Rowboats for Rent

Photos: The Boardwalk to the Lower Falls | The Prayer of the Woods

The Lower Falls consist of a series of five smaller falls cascading around an island. You can either view them from the riverbank or cross the Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge to explore the island. I’d recommend the latter—it’s a short half-mile loop around the island, and you get to see all five falls up close. Plus, the bridge itself is pretty cool, especially with the river roaring below after the recent rains.

Photos: Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge

Photos: The Island Loop – It’s pretty flat until you hit the boat dock area, where you’ll find a few stairs

Photos: Morning Views from the Island Loop

Photos: A few views of the Cascades at the Lower Falls from the Island

Feeling inspired and ready for a bigger adventure, I changed into my trail runners, grabbed my poles, and lathered myself in bug spray. My next challenge: the 4-mile one-way hike from the Lower Falls to the Upper Falls along the River Trail, known for its scenic beauty, winding through old-growth forests and along the river.

The River Trail: A Hiker’s Delight with Otters

Now, let me give you a heads-up: this trek is not for everyone. It’s got its fair share of exposed roots, hilly terrain, numerous staircases, and was a bit overgrown in some areas. But if you’re up for the challenge, the rewards are more than worth it. At one point, I even stumbled upon a group of river otters frolicking along the riverbank. They didn’t notice me at first, but when I “clicked” to get their attention for a photo, they weren’t too thrilled and quickly disappeared into the water. I guess not everyone is a fan of the paparazzi!

One thing to note is that the trail isn’t always the best marked or maybe I just wasn’t paying attention. I may or may not have taken a wrong turn at one point, but hey, getting lost is part of the adventure, right?

Photos: River Trailhead at the Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge | Time to walk the plank and dodge some roots on the River Trail!

Photos: The River Trail – A fun combo of dirt paths and wooden boardwalks!

Photos: The Otters – Before they knew I was around | And after – when they gave me an earful!

Photos: Check out one of the amazing views of the Tahquamenon River along the trail! | And yep, even on the way up to the Upper Falls, you’ll hit some stairs going down—perfect cardio workout!

Stairmasters and Nature’s Powerhouse

After what felt like a mini-marathon, I reached the Upper Falls. The 181 stairs down to the Gorge View seemed like child’s play after my hike, and the view was nothing short of spectacular. From here I got my first glimpse of this massive cascade with a nearly 50-foot drop and a width of over 200 feet. The sheer volume of water crashing down is mesmerizing—it’s said that during peak flow, over 50,000 gallons of water rush over the falls every second, hence getting the title of the second largest east of the Mississippi.

Photos: Coming off the River Trail and hitting the Upper Falls Viewing Areas | First stop: the Gorge View!

Photos: Stairmaster Workout – 181 stairs down to the Gorge, then back up

Photos: Boardwalk to the Viewing Area | Along the Gorge

*Photos:* The Upper Falls from the Gorge Viewing Area

If you’re a sucker for scenic spots, the Brink View area is another must-visit. After another 94 steps down, you’ll be rewarded with a front-row seat to one of nature’s most powerful shows. This area was definitely more popular, and I had to navigate around a few selfie-taking tourists, but the view was worth it. After taking in the sights, I headed to the Upper Falls parking lot, a short 0.3-mile walk on a paved walkway. This spot has some nice perks too, like the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub, Camp 33 Gift Shop, an outdoor picnic area, and even a food truck, though it wasn’t open when I visited.

*Photo:* The “Root Beer Falls” from the Brink Viewing Area

After all that hiking, I figured I deserved a reward, so I made my way to the Brewery & Pub. Unfortunately, nothing on the menu really caught my eye, but I couldn’t pass up the chance to try one of their beers. I went with the Falls Tannin, an American Red Beer. It had that deep amber hue, just like the Upper Falls, but the taste was… well, just okay. Not exactly something to write home about, but it hit the spot after a long day on the trails.

Photos: Tahquamenon Falls Brewery | Tried the Falls Tannin – does it look like the falls? | Today’s brews!

Trail Running and Campfire Bliss

Rested and refreshed, it was time to head back down the River Trail to the Lower Falls parking lot—a solid 4+ miles back. This time, I took the Nature Trail to the River Trail, the path I had hiked up earlier. Feeling a bit adventurous, I decided to turn the hike into a trail run. The path was getting busier with other hikers, so I had to weave around a few people, but it was a fun way to end the day.

Back at the Lower Falls parking lot, I packed up and headed to my campsite for the night—The Lower Falls Portage Campground. Back at the campsite, I treated myself to a hot shower, made another campfire, and settled in for the night. I had a 7-hour drive to Duluth, Minnesota, ahead of me the next day, so I knew it would be an early night. But as I sat by the fire with a cold drink in hand, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Tahquamenon Falls State Park had lived up to every expectation and then some.

A Memorable Adventure

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is more than just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience. Whether you’re marveling at the mighty falls, exploring the serene hiking trails, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this park offers something for everyone. And if you’re lucky, you might even have a few memorable encounters with the local wildlife. Just don’t forget to pack your bug spray, plan to camp in the park, and get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget. So, what are you waiting for?

The Pasty Pursuit: A Culinary Quest

As I drove through the U.P., I kept seeing signs for pasties (pronounced pass-tee, not pay-stee.) —what are these mysterious pastry things? As a curious foodie, chef, and restauranteur (also a pescatarian), I had to find out. After some quick research, I found a place in Ishpeming that had a vegetarian option. I headed to Lawry’s Pasty Shop, only to be disappointed—apparently, they don’t cook the vegetarian ones on-site. Determined not to leave empty-handed, I backtracked to Irontown Pasties in the heart of Negaunee. After a bit of a wait (perfect for catching up on Words with Friends), I finally snagged a veggie-cheese pasty. The staff was super friendly, and when I asked about the “proper” way to eat it, they handed me a no-name ketchup bottle and said, “With ketchup!”

My first impression? Well, let’s just say it looked like an Irishman on the beach in Miami—stark white. The dough was a bit undercooked, especially where it was folded. The filling was a mix of broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, onion, potato, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and spices. It wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t great either. It was like winning a match by default—you get the victory, but it feels a bit anticlimactic. With that, I headed for Duluth, Minnesota.

Photos: Irontown Pasties | My Veggie-Cheese Pasty – with a side of ketchup, of course!

Catch you on the road!

Dates of Visit: 20 & 21 July 2024

Smugglers Notch State Park | Vermont

By Stephen

On January 14, 2024

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

My Visit to Stowe | Vermont

In my previous post about Mount Mansfield, I mentioned that the weather was not ideal for camping, and hotel rooms were expensive. As a result, I decided to stay in a hostel named Round Hearth Cafe and Market in Stowe, which I booked through Airbnb. Christopher, the host, was extremely friendly and an excellent host at the cafe as well. Additionally, the stay included complimentary coffee and a discount on food at the cafe. The hostel is not luxurious and is mainly intended for skiers, as indicated by the industrial carpet in the hallways (suitable for ski boots and snow). The rooms are plain but comfortable, and the shared bathrooms are super clean and well-lit. Since it was the off-season, I felt like I had the entire place to myself.

Pictures: Entrance to the Cafe and Hostel | Outdoor Seating Area

Pictures: Stairway to Rooms | Upper Hallway

Pictures: Hostel Room | Men’s Bathroom

That night, I decided to check out the area and found the Idletyme Brewing Company which was just down the road. I hung out in the bar area and had a chat with some of the locals. We talked about what to order for dinner and what to see at Smugglers Notch State Park. But then, an ambulance went by and they told me something creepy – apparently, the locals think someone has fallen at Bingham Falls every time they hear an ambulance. On that happy note, I had a great time and the food was pretty good.

Pictures: Idletyme Brewing Co. | Doubletyme IPA 7% | Fish and Chips

Work First, then a Hike

The next morning I had to do some work for a client, so I had breakfast in the cafe downstairs and worked on my project. It took a bit of time to complete, but there was still some daylight and I decided to head to the dreaded Bingham Falls – only a 5-minute drive up Mountain Road to the Trailhead.

Pictures: The Double Diamond Breakfast Sandwich with Avocado and Home Fries | The Cafe Interior

Pictures: The Round Hearth | Round Hearth Cafe Interior

First, a little about the park

Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Smugglers Notch State Park is a nature lover’s paradise that seamlessly blends breathtaking landscapes with outdoor adventure. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the park is a haven for hikers, boasting an extensive trail network that caters to all skill levels. Towering cliffs and dense forests create a picturesque backdrop, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park’s crown jewel, the famed Smugglers Notch, is a scenic mountain pass that weaves through rugged terrain, providing an exhilarating journey for those seeking a challenge. Visitors can relish in the park’s rich history, discovering tales of smugglers who once navigated these hidden paths. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual stroller, Smugglers Notch State Park invites you to explore its vast beauty and uncover the secrets held within its sprawling expanse.

Pictures: Trail Map | Trail Descriptions

There’s a reason it’s called Smugglers Notch

In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson passed an embargo act forbidding American trade with Great Britain and Canada. This was a severe hardship for northern Vermonters since Montreal was closer than other markets in the US. Many local people continued illegal trade with Canada, herding cattle and carrying other goods through the Notch. Later, fugitive slaves used the Notch as an escape route to Canada. During the Prohibition years, liquor was smuggled from Canada over the improved road built in 1922.

Top 5 Things to See

Smugglers Notch: The iconic mountain pass itself is a must-see. Marvel at the breathtaking rock formations and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, where 19th-century smugglers once navigated through this hidden gem.
- This is not hard to miss as the road runs right through the notch.
Sterling Pond: Hike to the pristine Sterling Pond, the highest trout pond in Vermont. Surrounded by mountains, this alpine lake offers a serene setting for picnics and a chance to connect with nature.
- Compete – more later in the post.
Bingham Falls: A natural wonder awaits at Bingham Falls. Cool off in the refreshing cascades and pools, surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for a rejuvenating dip after a day of hiking.
- Despite the warnings – I checked this off the list.
Long Trail: Traverse a section of the famous Long Trail, which runs through the park. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual walker, the trail provides stunning views of the Green Mountains and an opportunity to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.
- Although I didn’t do the entire Long Trail, I did portions near the Chin (see my Mount Mansfield post) and near Sterling Pond.
Moss Glen Falls: A short drive from the park, Moss Glen Falls is a picturesque waterfall worth visiting. Surrounded by lush foliage, it’s a photogenic spot and a tranquil setting to appreciate Vermont’s natural beauty.
- Not to be confused with the Moss Glen Falls near Hostel Tevere that I wrote about in my Mount Mansfield post. I didn’t go to this particular Moss Glen Falls.

Let’s Conquer the Falls!

With my work complete, I decided to get a late afternoon hike in and headed towards Bingham Falls. The falls are named after Hiram Bingham, an American missionary, explorer, politician, and early settler in the area. It was carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age and has been a local favorite for cooling off and unwinding for generations. The park has numerous educational signs and well-marked trails, including those at the falls.

Pictures: Some of the educational signs you’ll discover

From the parking lot off Mountain Road, the trail is just a short 0.8 miles out and back. There’s a bit of elevation change, with the biggest challenge being the descent to the base of the falls. It’s a beautiful walk through the forest, which leads to the Upper Falls area. From there, there are steps down to the base of the falls. As I explored the area, I realized why people often get hurt or even die here – the rocks are incredibly slippery and there are no fences to prevent accidents. Therefore, it’s important to take your surroundings seriously and be cautious. I can only imagine how many people have been injured while trying to take a “cool” pic for Instagram.

Pictures: The initial portion of the trail

Pictures: The Upper Falls area

*Picture:* The West Branch Little River flowing into Bingham Falls

Pictures: Upper Falls

Pictures: The steep and slick trail down to the base of the falls

Trail Therapy

As I headed back to the parking lot, I decided to take a hike along the river. While on the trail, my attention was drawn to a young woman seated by the riverbank, immersed in her thoughts with headphones on. Respecting her space, I continued cautiously. Eventually, reaching the trail’s end, I retraced my steps. This time, our eyes met, and she removed her headphones. Greetings were exchanged, and I sensed an unease. As we chatted, she confided in me about her health struggles, likely stemming from mold in her flood-affected apartment, a result of recent Vermont floods. With empathy, I shared some fatherly advice, ranging from seeking legal assistance to moving out or finding a roommate. Encouraging and positive, I ensured she felt supported before I left her. This situation echoed a moment near my sister’s home, where a stranger stopped, concerned about my well-being – not that I looked distraught – but due to a recent suicide at the nearby falls. Compassion is priceless, reminding us to be attuned to others and their experiences. I believe fate guided me on that trail, and I sincerely hope she found a solution to her challenges.

Boxed Wine, Cheese and Crackers

After an emotional finish to the day and having successfully survived the hike to Bingham Falls, I headed to the market to buy some cheese, crackers, and boxed wine for dinner. Yes, I am a fan of boxed wines and have found some really good ones. In fact, years ago, I went to an incredible restaurant in France that only served boxed wine. So, I set up a spot outside at one of the cafe’s outdoor tables and enjoyed the sunset before heading to bed as I had a big day of hiking ahead of me.

Hiking: Day 2

The next morning, I packed up and headed out for a day of hiking. I had hoped to get out early, but had to tend to some business before hiking as I knew cellphone coverage would be spotty in the mountains. With my business finished, I headed to the Smugglers Cave parking area where I would first head to Sterling Pond and then Smugglers Cave. For a Tuesday with overcast weather, the parking lot was filling up fast, but I was fortunate to get a spot. I stopped at the information booth and spoke with the volunteer about the trails and such. He was a super interesting guy who had been a ranger in the Adirondack Mountains.

*Picture:* Informational Sign at Smugglers Notch

Pictures: Boulders at the Parking Lot | Overcast Weather

A Steep Climb and Lookout for Bears

The trail up to Sterling Pond is a moderately challenging route – keep in mind you are hiking up a trail to a peak that people ski down. The Sterling Pond trailhead is across the street and the trail is 2.1 miles out and back to just Sterling Pond with an elevation gain of 1000 feet – with most of the gain at the beginning of the hike. And just like Bingham Falls, the rocks were wet and slick, lending to a slower-than-normal hike.

Pictures: Sterling Pond Trailhead

Pictures: The steep and slippery hike to Sterling Pond

Pictures: More of the steep incline | One of the “pop-up” waterfalls and streams along the trail

At the top of the mountain, you reach a portion of the Long Trail – the same Long Trail that connects the Chin to the Nose to the Forehead on Mount Mansfield. The entire Long Trail spans 272 miles from Massachusetts to the Canadian Border and was the first long-distance hiking trail in the U.S. Although this portion of the hike wasn’t too steep, it was sheer rock and super slick due to the wet weather.

Pictures: Joining the Long Trail | Warning Sign | Slick Rocks

I hiked up to Sterling Pond, which is the highest-elevation trout pond in Vermont. It was a peaceful and beautiful spot, that is until a loud family could be heard in the distance. I continued my hike around the pond. The loop trail is about 1.4 miles long and includes some narrow sections and a few inclines, but nothing too difficult to navigate. The beginning of the trail was a bit challenging because some parts had been washed out, but I managed to make my way through. At the top of the ski mountain, which was still wet and swampy from recent rains, I checked out the chair lift platform, which was pretty cool. The trail around the pond wasn’t always easy to follow, and I ended up wandering around the summit a bit until I found a clearing and the trail again.

Pictures: Washed out Trail | View of Sterling Pond

Pictures: Ski Trail Sign | Top of the Notch Lodge

Pictures: Chair Lift Platform | Where the trail continues – through the opening in the trees

Shortly after I re-entered the woods, I came across a picnic table and a couple enjoying their lunch. I think I startled them as there were few hikers in this area. From here I headed down the Elephant’s Head Trail and this is where things got a little interesting. To begin with, it was super quiet and I was the only person on the trail. Then the initial part of the trail, along Sterling Pond, is quite narrow and there are a series of small inclines and declines through narrow rock gorges. It wasn’t anything I couldn’t navigate, but challenging at a couple of points.

Pictures: Elephant’s Head Trail Marker | The “loud” family that was behind me – now off in the distance

*Picture:* Sterling Pond – from the other side

Pictures: One of the narrow gorges to maneuver through | The beauty of the forest

After you leave the area around the pond, there is another intersection and you continue on the Elephant’s Head Trail, which now takes you through the forest. From here it is an uphill climb, then back down. It was at this point that I began to see tracks in the mud. I had seen several dogs on the way up to Sterling Pond, but these were much bigger than the average dog. I suspected they were bear tracks! As a note: When I got back to the parking lot, I showed the ex-ranger and volunteer my photos of the tracks and he confirmed that they were bear tracks. I’m glad I was hiking with my bear spray! Eventually you connect back to the Long Trail.

Pictures: Back to the Long Trail | The Long Trail – heading towards Sterling Pond Trail

Once I got back to the Sterling Pond Trail, I headed back down the mountain to the parking lot. Along the way, I ran into a guy who was taking pictures of birds. He said it was a quiet day and he hadn’t seen many birds, but what I thought was cool – he was there on his lunch break from work. How cool to have this in your backyard and hike on your lunch break!

Looking for Smugglers!

After returning to the parking lot, I unloaded my backpack and poles and took a break to eat and drink. The weather was improving and the area was getting busier with more cars waiting for parking spots. Once I finished my lunch, I went back to the information booth to ask about the bear tracks and to get more information about the Smugglers Cave. I was happy to find out that the cave was located right behind the booth and there was a short loop up and around the caves. The cave was quite interesting, and I could imagine smugglers hiding out there in the past. It was a great way to end my day. I am happy that I split my visit into two days, as there is so much to explore and enjoy at Smugglers Notch State Park! I would definitely recommend a visit to this beautiful park.

Pictures: To Smugglers Cave | The History of Smugglers Notch

Pictures: Smugglers Cave

Time for a Beer

With the day relatively young, and Burlington, Vermont close by, I headed east to check out their craft brewing scene and to see a town I have been wanting to visit for some time. My first stop – Queen City Brewery – where I enjoyed a flight of beer and met a nice couple from the West Coast of Florida. We chatted about Florida Breweries and I mentioned my love for IPAs. They suggested I try Zero Gravity Brewery across the street as are known for their IPAs.

Pictures: Queen City Brewery

Pictures: Beers of the Day | My Flight of Beer

After finishing my flight, I headed across to the street to Zero Gravity Brewery where I picked up a few different IPAs in cans. With beers in hand, snacks in my cooler, and the golden hour approaching, I headed to nearby Oakledge Park to see the sunset on Lake Champlain. I sat on the rocks and watched an incredible sunset. It was a great way to end an incredible day!