Looking to experience some Fall colors and have a challenge of a little snow, we embarked for Green Mountain on this crisp October morning.
The first 19 miles of gravel/paved roads leading up to Green Mountain were better than just a few months previously. However, the five miles of dirt road nearing the trailhead weren't the smoothest. If you have the luxury of choosing between a vehicle with ground clearance or a vehicle that will provide you with better gas mileage for the somewhat long excursion getting to Green Mountain, I suggest you take the ground clearance.
At the trailhead, the mosquitoes were horrible. We put on the trusty 'ol Jungle Juice to stave off these pests. The stinky stuff, though, wasn't needed.
As far as the trail's route, I won't go into details because you've already read them in your guide book or elsewhere. Specifically regarding trail conditions, there was snow about a half mile past the lakes, continuing all the way to the top of Green Mountain. The snow varied in depth, between a dusting to three inches. We didn't need crampons, but they would've been nice had we brought them. Don't try the summit without hiking poles, though.
Yesterday was only my second time experiencing Green Mountain, but many are sure to follow. I suggest you get up there and hike through the snow to experience the pleasure of viewing so many animal tracks freshly set in snow. Total time hiking up was about 2:25, while the return trip was quicker at 2:00 even.
Comments