
Summer’s final embers crackled on Mount Mansfield this weekend, and I was lucky enough to share the blaze with Paul! In a blistering 52 minutes, we conquered the summit, boots pounding a victory rhythm on the rocky trail. The reward? Breathtaking panoramas of Vermont’s emerald tapestry unfurling beneath a cerulean sky.
But the adventure wasn’t over at the peak. We followed the ridge down, legs weaving through fragrant spruce forests and sun-dappled meadows. It was like chasing the sunlit shadows, laughing and swapping stories, until the mountain whispered goodbye.
That evening, nostalgia painted the town with familiar hues. We revisited my old haunts, each brick and crooked lamppost a portal to forgotten memories. Paul, armed with his trusty mini-camera, captured moments the bulky Canon couldn’t – fleeting smiles caught in firelight, impromptu dance moves in Muddy Waters’ cozy nook.
And speaking of Muddy Waters, oh, the pick-me-up that is their coffee! But the real hero of the night was the Vermont Smoked Porter at the Vermont Pub Brewery. Smooth as velvet, with a whisper of smoke that curled around the edges of our taste buds. (Side note: a hilarious misunderstanding ensued with the waitress, who kept assuming we were ordering “Vermont Smoked Boar” – every sip a chuckle!)
This weekend was a delightful mosaic of mountain majesty, familiar comfort, and unexpected mirth. A perfect slice of summer, savored to the last drop of that smoky porter. And remember, friends, sometimes the best adventures are born of spontaneous climbs, shared laughter, and misheard boar orders.
So raise a mug, toast the waning summer, and get ready for autumn’s vibrant embrace. And if you ever find yourself near Mount Mansfield, don’t forget to chase the sunset down the ridge – it’s a memory worth summiting for.
What a wonderful recount of your weekend adventure! It sounds like you had an amazing time hiking Mount Mansfield, exploring the town, and enjoying some local flavors. Here are some interesting facts and tips related to your experience:
Mount Mansfield Hiking:
- Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont, located in Chittenden County within the Green Mountains12.
- The Mount Mansfield Loop Trail takes you above the tree line1. The hike begins at Underhill State Park off of Mountain Road1.
- The trail is generally considered challenging, so be prepared for a rigorous hike1.
- You can find more information about the trail, including maps and reviews, on AllTrails13.
Muddy Waters Coffee:
- Muddy Waters is known for its good coffee and cozy ambiance4.
- However, please note that there’s a product named MudWtr, which is a coffee alternative. Some people find it tastes like dirty water with a bit of chai mixed in5.
Vermont Pub Brewery’s Vermont Smoked Porter:
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