Green, green, Vermont

After Indian Lake we took a very leisurely drive to Randolph Center, Vermont.  It is essentially right in the middle of the state.  The countryside is verdant green and just bursting with life.  We have been enjoying the fresh veggies at the roadside stands and farmers markets.  Finally, good tomatoes and corn!

We stumbled upon a gorgeous campground, Lake Champagne, here in Randolph Center.  It is on 100 private acres with fabulous views, that coupled with sensational weather, it is practically perfect.

Right from our campsite to the right

and to the left.

I or I should say we, have rediscovered hills.  As you know since my issue I have been very determined to exercise numerous times a week, and for me that is walking.  3 miles was about the norm in Florida, but at Karen's, 2.75 was the norm as she has a big hill in her driveway that I wasn't used to, but here in Vermont, wow!  So 2.5 miles, down and up, and down and up, and down and up, are the norm.  And at the end of my walk there is no doubt I had my heartrate up :-)

We took a long ride yesterday, a huge loop from Randolph up through Warren and Waterbury to have lunch in Burlington.  Yeah, I know driving 75 miles for lunch may be strange for some, but not for us.  April had recommended a place in Burlington that was a farm to table restaurant specializing in local veg and meats and cheeses, so we wanted to give it a whirl.  It is called the Farmhouse Tap and Grill  We had a great lunch.  3 different burgers, yeah, I know, but we just couldn't not do it.  Karen stuck with the local grass fed beef with Landaff creamery cheese, local bacon, and pickled onions, and I did catch her a little off guard.

Munch, munch

Jan went with a turkey burger with tilsit cheese, cranberry mostarda, arugula, and charred onions.

Mid mouthful!

And yours truly went with pork with Cabot cheddar, a sunny side egg, and coleslaw.  Along with our handcut fries,we were happy, happy!
We then drove north to Fairfax to sightsee, found a great view, and an unexpected waterfall where a power plant had been built.

We cut back around and south through Smuggler's Notch beside Mt Mansfield towards Stowe.   Very scenic and narrow road!  The notch was used by smugglers bootlegging goods in from Canada.

A portion of the narrow "notch"

We had heard about a waterfall near Stowe that we wanted to hike into, Moss Glen Falls. It was a little of a let down but an enjoyable short hike to a mostly inaccessible falls.

The way to the falls

About as close as you can get

Still worth it

After stretching our legs, back in the car to head back to the campground.  190 mile round trip lunch!