One thing the Battenkill Valley is NOT is “touristy.” There is an authenticity to everything here; none of that all-that-and-the-t-shirt-too blatentnish you’ll find across the state border. And no time is this more true than Sugarin’ Time. Sugar houses will be open the weekends of March 20 and 27. You want authenticity? Check out Mapleland Farms in Argyle, where you can have a traditional pancake breakfast in the actual sap house (and occasionally get dripped on by the sap condensation that builds up on the tin roof!). The view alone is worth the trip. Or try the pancakes at Dry Brook Sugar House in Salem down Chamber Hollow and sit smack in the middle of one of the biggest and most impressive farms around. (Just watch where you step!) Wherever you go you’ll find the syrup will be served warm and, of course, you can buy some to take home. It’s fun, it’s educational, it’s delicious, and it’s very, very authentic. For more info and directions visit http://nys-maple.com/mapleweekend_map.php
I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing some of the attractions thiss Mr. Budde describes, and I tell ya he’s right on the money.
As a photographer, I’ve done enough travelling to make you think I’m a cartographer-in-training, so I’ve been to a lot of nice places, but the Battenkill is peerless when you combine its scenery, diverse offerings and friendly folk.
Curt (photocurt.com)
(765) 437-8048