May Day on Green Mountain

While Monte Sano gets all the attention, there is another mountain trail that's just as beautiful...

Took a trip up to Green Mountain this May Day. It had been quite some time since I had been there. Beautiful spring day! May Day is a celebration of spring and new beginnings - a perfect time for a nature hike.
 

The lake is called Sky Lake for lovely mirroring it does of the heavens. 

A low dock allows you to walk out and stand at the edge so that all of your view is the lake, giving you the feeling you are standing on the water itself. A very freeing spot. You can also sit on the bench for longer viewing.

The place is made for picnics in the summer, with plenty of tables in the shade, with the cool lake air blowing over you.

A great place to be in nature! Wildflowers grow hugging the edge of the water, curious squirrel's check you out, ducks and geese often inhabit the lake, and if you don't see at least five water turtles on your walk you're just not paying attention.

I have a memory from when I was small of a pair of swans that used to grace the lake. On May Day the only animals I saw swimming were several water snakes skimming along on the top of the water. A different type of grace, but grace nonetheless. I never managed to get a good closeup, unfortunately.

 Aside from the abundance of nature, the park also offers a 40 year old covered bridge, perfect for feeding or watching the turtles. The bridge is older than me and I have wonderful memories of playing there as a child.

Another place that was fun to play in, is the historic old cabin. There used to be a few out buildings that have fallen into dust, but a replacement to the roof has kept the cabin in good shape. Also don't miss the little chapel in the woods.

The path borders the lake for most of the trail, with a few excursions into the woods. A swampy boardwalk is the perfect place to see frogs and other wildlife, too.


The trails are usually quiet, although groups often meet in the picnic area, including local banjoists.






 







This photograph to the right features Mr. Snake making a wake in the background behind the irises bordering the lake. It was one of my favorites from the day.



Nature, trails, gorgeous views, wildflowers, calm waters -- 

  
-- as brochures often say, there's a little something for everyone at Green Mountain.

  
As always, click on any of these photo to see them in them in a larger size and see all the details of Green Mountain Nature Trails.

Thanks for looking!