Lake Champlain sparkles in crisp autumn temperatures, bordered by forests dappled with late fall colors.
The trails through Point Au Roches State Park are easily accessible as well as family- and pet-friendly, with lots of views of the lake. Keep a lookout for Champ, Lake Champlain’s answer to the Loch Ness Monster. The Nature Center offers programs year-round.
Nearby, Ausable Chasm bills itself as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Walk along 5 miles of self-guided walking trails with great views of the deep ravine and rushing waters. Mountain bikers can enjoy 15 miles of scenic pedaling.
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The most incredible outdoor experience is Wild Walk. This unique adventure is a labyrinth of boardwalks, bridges and platforms lacing through the forest at treetop level, some 30 feet above the ground. Stretch out on a human-scale spider’s web to contemplate the sky or appreciate the mountain vistas from a full-sized eagle’s nest. This is definitely not to be missed.
Farm stands offer autumn harvests of late season vegetables, fruit, local honey and homemade treats. Elf Farm Winery and Cider Mill hosts Friday night Wine Downs with live music, cider, beer and food.
Country Dream Farm operates as farms did in the 1800s, with horsepower and basic tools. The tour, by reservation, includes a wagon ride, corn-shelling and grinding, rope making, participatory blacksmithing, and feeding the horses, mules, chickens and pot-bellied pigs.
A lot of history happened here. The War of 1812 Museum explains the importance of the often overlooked Battle of Plattsburgh, as well as how the conflict affected residents of the region, and how Lake Champlain figured into the entire war.
The Champlain Valley Transportation Museum and Kids’ Center houses a collection of automobiles from 1903 through the 1930s, plus muscle cars from the 1960s and 1970s. A lot of attention is paid to Lozier automobiles. In the early 1900s, Loziers were the most luxurious and exquisite on the road. The Kids’ Station is a highly interactive science adventure center within the museum.
For more ideas on what to do near
Don’t miss:
Nov. 5
Taste of the North Country: Area chefs show off their best dishes. the event also includes a silent auction and entertainment.
Nov. 14
Art and Book Festival, Clinton County Historical Museum
Nov. 14-15
Lake Champlain International Film Festival: This fest features a wide range of films in all genres, screened in a restoredArt Deco movie palace.
What to eat:
Hungry? Sample Asian, Tibetan and Nepali cuisine at Himalaya Restaurant. McSweeney’s Red Hots are justly famous for their loaded hot dogs and classic burgers.
For more travel advice, go to www.insightguides.com.
