The Mountains Call To Me

The Jerusalem Trail is a side trail that connects to the Long Trail. It is a 5 mile out and back with about 1700 feet of elevation gain. I started this hike before the sun had come over the mountain and the temperature was in the teens. The destination today is Orvis Lookout.   A large portion of the hike goes through a maple grove. There is a large scale sugaring operation and twice I had to duck under the lines. We finally reach the softwoods and start a steeper climb. Just before reaching the Long Trail it gets steep and icy. While standing there a group of about 8 hikers went by. They had spent the night at Glen Ellen Lodge. It must have been a cold night because there is no heat at the lodge. The Long Trail. This is a look north.   My first look at Orvis Lookout. And the view then you step out on Orvis Lookout. I final look back at the Green Mountains. I was up there somewhere. Map & Directions: https://www.trailfinder.info/trails/trail/jerusalem-trail

This hike is a 4.3 mile out and back with 1795 feet of elevation gain. It follows the Long Trail to near the summit of Laraway Mountain. The hike is a moderate grade following what seems to be an old logging road for much of the hike. On this day it was crusty and icy with lots of branches down; I cleaned up most. There are a few stream crossings. When you get close to the summit the trail narrows and the trail follows along fantastic cliffs into a narrow passage that brings you out close to Laraway Lookout. I should add that the trailhead is difficult to get to in winter.   This is the largest stream crossing. Nature's decorations. The narrow passage to the top. Water could be heard flowing underneath my feet. Approaching the Lookout View from the Lookout   Map & Details: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/18431962742