View from above

 September 23, 2024

Lazy Lions site 9

Graniteville, Vermont

"What do you mean you want to borrow my fur coat?  I really think it is a bit too small to do you much good.  Just grab another coat and go layered."

Will it really be that much colder when the gondola arrives at the top of Mt Mansfield, Vermont's highest mountain?  At least it's not snowing and you aren't skiing.

I know all the falling leaves collecting on every surface are making it look more and more like fall.  And with the temperature in the 50's it is down right chilly for your Florida blood.

You'll only be at an elevation of 3,660 feet by the time the gondola dumps you out

and that sign says it will probably be 10 degrees cooler. 

You'll be so charmed by the views that'll make you feel warm all over....provided of course, that you are wearing all your layers.   

 

I'm rather surprised you weren't wrapped in more of a crowd, but then we are still a week or two a head of full leaf color.  That week stretch of warm temperatures that snuck just into the 80's had an effect on leaf color according to the news/weatherman.

I guess the tourists were more interested in Cold Hollow Cider Mill as the parking lot was loaded with cars and a bus load had just arrived.

But I see you still managed to get your coffee and cider donuts.

As well as a taste of their apple cider

I know Momma didn't order any coffee but that warm apple cider sure tasted good after a morning on the chilly mountain.

After thawing out, it was time for .....ice cream of course.  Ben and Jerry's ice cream that is.  Straight from the factory.

The tour guide

showed a video that shared the story of how Ben and Jerry's evolved from ice cream sold in an old run out gas station building to the current three factories. It was interesting to note that Ben and Jerry sold the company but still hold guiding interest in the company.  After viewing the factory in operation behind glass and above the operation, everyone was treated to a sample.  Today's flavor was cookies and cream.

The tour is designed for all ages with a playground area on site.

There was even a graveyard.

Only in this graveyard, some flavors are brought back to life for a few years before taking a permanent rest under their grave stone.

Anther interesting day in Vermont....

I'm Chloe