Beyond, a fisherman stands in waders, fly-casting downstream. The autumn transformation along the stream has been spotty, with only early trendsetters bedecked in fall fashion. Higher in the hills, iridescent Paisleys are in full vogue. He bought this land in the late '30s and '40s for experimental planting. It's now a community conservation and education centre.
Trails crisscross the reserve, accessing overlooks and camping shelters.
Rust-red splotches blister the hills beyond. By the next morning, Ol' Sol has become a grinning extrovert. That afternoon, we venture into the Green Mountains to hike an easy 3-km section of the Long Trail, a pathway that ultimately stretches the length of Vermont. By mid-breakfast, the torrents come wringing down. The sprawling building overflows with homey products.