Rocky Peaks and Piney Forests

Vermont sky and mountains before our hike for the day. 

    Today we hiked a little over 12 more miles of the AT here in Vermont.  We took our time this morning and enjoyed a really wonderful homemade breakfast (I am a huge fan of this sharp cheddar cheese Vermont is famous for) before setting out.  The day couldn't have been more perfect.  It was much cooler today than it has been, with barely a cloud in the sky and a nice breeze.  The hiking was relatively gentle, through thick pine forests.  I've been happy to see the pine forests here.  So many of the east coast pine forests have been destroyed by foreign beetles.  There is evidence of such destruction here.  But there is also evidence of hearty new growth, which makes me happy.  There were lots of pretty streams and bridges and boardwalks on the hike today as well.

AT waterfall and bridge.  

    Even though most of the hike was in the pines, we had a couple of opportunities for great views.  For one of them, we climbed up a sheer, rocky mountainside to get to the summit, but when we turned around to look behind us, we got a real treat.  One of the best views of this section of AT.  Followed up by some delicious ribs for dinner at a local restaurant.  Another great AT day.

Amazing view from a rocky VT summit.