What a gorgeous day for a hike! 

We hike up the 4.5 mile toll road to the Mansfield Visitor Center, topping out at 3,850 feet and returned the same way. 

Stowe Resort had just closed the day earlier so we were able to hike without too much worry of crossing paths with skiers and boarders, although we did see quite a few people taking the challenge to skin up the slopes to get a few last turns in for the season. We started the hike in the low 40s at 8am from the Toll Road parking lot and the day warmed up nicely with some blue skies and great views from the top with very little wind. Temperatures warmed up to the upper 50s as we finished the hike. 

Pete decided to take a nap at one of the lifts and was greeted with a comfortable padded spot while the rest of the group continued up toward the top. We didn’t forget to wake him up on our way down, keeping my streak of losing someone on a group hike at 0. 

(Photo credit: Robynn)

There was still a little under 3 feet of snow measured at the snow stake toward the top.

The toll road was snow covered at times but easily managed as it was packed down and not too slushy with the warmer temperatures. We enjoyed some snacks at the top and Sebastian made sure we left no crumbs behind.

(Photo credit: Robynn)

There was a lone hiker hiking down from the chin as we took our rest break. Hopefully they made a smart decision about the trials during mud season. 

I think everyone had pretty big smiles on their faces at the end of the trip with the weather being so awesome and the group conversations being great.

Attendees: Rich, Stacey, Sebastian, Robynn, Tami, Jennifer, Pete, Lisa Hardy Granillo (leader)