I used to have a recurring dream in which I鈥檓 sitting on my mat awaiting instructions from a panel of my yoga teachers. I鈥檓 at an Iyengar yoga assessment, for which I鈥檓 completely unprepared. And I am terrified. After what seems like an eternity, they tell me my task: I鈥檓 to carve a Thanksgiving turkey right there on my mat using the props in front of me鈥攁 plastic fork and knife.

It鈥檚 possible that I had some anxiety about cooking holiday dinner.

From My Fondest Memory to the Fear of Failure

I can still smell my mother鈥檚 kitchen on Thanksgiving morning. The fragrance of her homemade pies mixed with the aroma of the turkey roasting in the oven created an air of anticipation that could be felt throughout the house. My sister and I would watch the Thanksgiving Day parade on TV in our pajamas and would periodically be called into the kitchen to help my mother stir a pot or lick a bowl. The whole day was spent waiting for the moment we were called to the table. By the time dinner was ready, we were practically giddy as we loaded our plates with my mother鈥檚 delicious food in the most anticipated meal of the year.

Now that the torch of cooking the family鈥檚 holiday dinner has passed to me, my anticipation has morphed into recurring anxiety about living up to my memory of all those Thanksgivings past. One year, the turkey wasn鈥檛 fully cooked, the side dishes were cold, and I sat at the table feeling totally defeated. The pressure to replicate the magic of my childhood memories combined with the fear of failing turns out to be the perfect recipe for a really bad time.

Whether in the kitchen or on the yoga mat, fear is like a big bucket of ice dumped on the spark of adventure. Fear leaves us either too much in our own heads to access our inherent creativity and intuition鈥攐r so paralyzed that we convince ourselves we鈥檙e not even capable of trying. Fear seduces us into a place of complacency, inviting us to avoid what scares us in favor of dwelling in the comfort of our familiar beliefs. Fear prevents us from making mistakes and gaining the kind of wisdom that only comes from taking risks.

How Yoga Transformed My Holiday Stress

Patanjali鈥檚 classic text, the , offers several tools to help manage fear. Foremost among them are the principles of practice and . Practice, as outlined in Sutra 1.14, includes three aspects: We must practice for a long time, without break, and in all earnestness. This last one means we have to believe what we鈥檙e practicing is actually possible.

Sutras 1.15 and 1.16 describe detachment, which essentially means that our identities are not dependent on our successes or failures. This knowledge leads to freedom and a very real connection to the .

Practicing鈥攃ontinuously showing up in the face of real or potential failure鈥攊s trusting that the process is the goal. Ultimately, it鈥檚 the intention behind my cooking, the effort I鈥檝e devoted to the meal, and the heart I鈥檝e poured into each dish that will make the meal a success.

Even a botched attempt at cooking Thanksgiving dinner is an opportunity to practice detachment. One year, my apple pie fell apart and I had no backup plan and a table full of guests awaiting dessert. I had to let go of my original plan and quickly adapt to the new situation. So I decided to scoop out the apple filling and spoon it over some vanilla ice cream. No one knew the difference; in fact, it was a huge hit!

It鈥檚 often when things have fallen apart that I鈥檝e realized just how much I limited myself with my own expectations. 听It鈥檚 often in those moments that you get to know your own resilience and experience a true connection to the moment. Opening myself up to life often results in something greater than I could have imagined. And some of my best memories are of times when nothing went according to plan鈥攚hen I was forced to surrender.

How to Make Thanksgiving Less Stressful

Once I remembered that the truth of who I am does not depend on my producing a flawless meal, I felt more at ease. Now I know how to overcome holiday stress because I鈥檝e realized the ways that being in the kitchen cooking dinner is a lot like showing up on the yoga mat.

1. Connect With Your Inner State

Bring your yoga practice into the kitchen by tuning into how you feel as you create your Thanksgiving menu. Anxiety, doubt, and fear can all be felt in the body and are signs that you need to reevaluate your approach. Focus your attention on the process of executing what you can manage to the best of your abilities.

Taking risks in the kitchen is about listening to the motivations that drive your efforts. If I鈥檓 considering a challenging recipe, such as an apple pie with pastry made from scratch, and I can feel myself getting excited about the process, I go for it. I know that no matter how it turns out, it will have been worth it because it was my commitment to the adventure, not the result, that inspired me to be daring in the first place.

If, on the other hand, I stare at the recipe with a sense of dread or expectation, or if I鈥檓 hoping that the finished product will prove something to myself or to others, then I know that no matter how it turns out, I will not enjoy the fruits of my efforts.

2. Focus on the Journey鈥擭ot the Outcome

When you can鈥檛 do a challenging pose in yoga, the practice is to focus on and appreciate what you can do. Flailing toward an end result will get you nowhere. And if you somehow arrive at the 鈥渆nd goal鈥� by doing so, you will have missed the point because you weren鈥檛 connected to yourself in the process.

It matters how you feel during a yoga practice鈥攏ot what you look like. Cooking is the same: A dish鈥檚 value lies in how it was created.

3. You鈥檙e Allowed to Change Your Mind

Let go of your expectation that you need to whip up elaborate food just because it鈥檚 Thanksgiving. Really. This mindset can free you from the pitfalls of self-inflicted suffering.

It鈥檚 perfectly okay to opt out of a challenging recipe if it doesn鈥檛 feel right. I鈥檝e learned over the years to ease up on myself by swapping out difficult, time-consuming recipes for simple, foolproof ones, such as incredible, crispy roasted brussel sprouts with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. (They take about five minutes to prepare before I pop them in the oven.)

4. Follow Your Intuition

Cooking, like yoga, is about connecting to yourself in the moment. Pose cues such as 鈥渟tand equally on all four corners of your feet鈥� are useful only when you can feel them in your own body. Similarly, a recipe is only a guideline. Great cooking happens when you listen to your gut, trust your instincts, and make the recipe your own. Follow the instructions as a starting point, but allow yourself to experiment, play, and have fun.

I鈥檓 not nervous anymore because now I know how to make Thanksgiving less stressful. No matter how the meal turns out, the people who matter most in my life will celebrate the love and effort I put into our shared experience. What I鈥檒l remember most is the attitude I chose to bring to the kitchen and the wisdom I鈥檒l gain from letting go.

This article has been updated. Originally published October 2, 2013.

The post Making Thanksgiving Dinner Doesn鈥檛 Have to Be Stressful. Here鈥檚 What You Need to Know. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Just because the temps drop doesn鈥檛 mean you have to stop mountain biking. Before the snow flies weekly in western mountain towns, these crisp cold days can lead to incredible riding conditions鈥攎orning frost and just enough sun often give way to silky smooth hero dirt. Still, it can be hard to motivate for a frigid fall bike ride, especially since temperature regulation on a mountain bike is highly elusive. Here are a few of our favorite gear picks for extending your mountain-bike season way past the summer.

At a Glance

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Wild Rye Gnarnia Glove

Warm digits are crucial when riding in low temps. I鈥檝e found the fleece-lined Wild Rye Gnarnia gloves to be just the edge I need for riding in the mid-30s and 40s. In the fall and winter, a glove swap is crucial, so I often wear a standard glove for a long climb, then keep these gloves in my pack (stashed in a sealed plastic bag if it鈥檚 raining) for a cozy respite before a chilly descent. They鈥檙e not fully waterproof, but the nylon shell does wonders for shedding dirt and mud while you plow through puddles.

Curious Creatures Sun Dog Pant

Pants season is my favorite part of mountain-bike season. The Sun Dog pants are lightweight enough to be reasonable for summertime bike park laps, but I鈥檝e found them to be a fantastic layer for fall rides since they鈥檙e plenty warm for brisk days. The stretchy polyester construction is breathable yet durable鈥擨 found it to be abrasion-resistant while picnicking in the forest鈥攚ithout feeling stiff.

A few other features I love are the dual-zippered pockets for a phone and snacks. I also appreciate the stretchy drawcord waistband that doesn鈥檛 require a zip or button, allowing a hip pack to sit comfortably around my waist. Plus, the colors are wickedly cute, making it a versatile pair of pants I also take hiking and climbing.

Skida Pursuit Hat

Those massive vents in mountain-bike helmets come in handy for hot summer days, but come December, they feel like they funnel ice-cold air straight into my brain. Thankfully, Skida launched its Pursuit series this fall, which includes this sleek and synthetic beanie, ideal for layering under a bike helmet. This hat is thin enough not to feel bulky under a helmet, and it鈥檚 easy to tuck into a pocket while I鈥檓 pedaling up. If you want even less coverage, the lightweight ($24) is the perfect swath of soft, breathable poly-spandex for high-output rides on frosty days.

Norr酶na Fj酶r氓 Equaliser Lightweight Long Sleeve

听

Even when it鈥檚 hovering close to freezing, the minute I start pedaling, my internal furnace goes nuts. So I like to opt for a lightweight long-sleeve jersey, like the Norr酶na Fj酶r氓 Equaliser, which breathes well while climbing and can be paired with a warmer jacket for long descents. When it鈥檚 closer to 40 degrees, I find this top perfect for rides on rolling hills where I don鈥檛 want to stop and adjust my layers every ten minutes. The polyester fabric is airy and quick-drying, with a slim fit that I appreciate when I wear it under a vest or backpack. Plus, the back of the jersey is a touch longer than the front, so it provides plenty of coverage while you鈥檙e pedaling.

Branwyn Swag 24 Jogger

Nothing motivates me more while riding in the cold than the promise of a hot shower and a cozy pair of sweats. Branwyn鈥檚 merino joggers are the ultimate post-ride bottoms (there鈥檚 also a matching ), a seriously luxurious reward for toughing it out in the frosty air. These subtly slim joggers are the perfect swap for my chamois on the drive back home鈥攕oft, stretchy, and stink-resistant, thanks to their 85 percent merino wool construction.

7Mesh Chilco Anorak

Temperature regulation while pedaling a mountain bike is no easy feat. I find myself seeking out water-resistant but not waterproof layers that provide some protection from the elements while also dumping heat. The Chilco Anorak is an ideal put-on-and-leave-on layer for brisk fall rides thanks to its breathable polyester with a wind-blocking yet air-permeable design (hence the grid pattern). The synthetic outer shell is wind- and weather-resistant, with a cozy grid fleece lining that鈥檚 soft enough to wear over a T-shirt. There鈥檚 a large zippered hand pouch you can stash snacks in if you want to go pack-free for a short jaunt, and the hood can fit over a helmet or cinch down over your head for off-the-bike adventures.

The post This Gear Will Extend Your Mountain-Bike Season into the Winter appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Temperatures are starting to drop and snow is starting to fly here in Montana. For me, that means beginning to tackle my list of chores to prepare my home for winter. I have to clean the gutters, stain the deck, clean the garage, and winterize our cars. All of that time outside in the chilly autumn months means that I need warm and practical clothing to keep me comfortable while I work. I’ve optimized my layering system over the years and have a few pieces that I go back to again and again. Here are the fall layers I find myself grabbing first.

At a Glance

• • Best Work Shirt:
  • Best T-Shirt:
  • Best Work Pants:
  • Best Baselayer:
  • Best Puffy jacket:
  • Best Work Gloves:
  • Best Softshell Jacket:
  • Best Work Boots:

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Best Work Shirt

Sitka Snowcrest LS Fleece Shacket

The Snowcrest is a simple, heavyweight polyester fleece styled and cut like a shirt, complete with metal snap closures. It鈥檚 probably my most-worn cold weather staple鈥擨鈥檝e thrown it on for at least seven days in a row now. It keeps me comfortable raking leaves in 50-degree temperatures and sitting in front of the fire writing this article. It layers perfectly over a T-shirt and, with the collar turned up, just as well under a puffy or rain shell.

Best T-Shirt

Proof 72-Hour Merino T-Shirt

With warm afternoons, cool evenings, and unpredictable precipitation, fall demands versatile layers. That鈥檚 what a good mid-weight merino wool T-shirt delivers. The hard thing with merino wool Ts is finding ones that fit well, come in a variety of colors, and can survive regular washing. Proof鈥檚 72-hour shirt is made from 87-percent merino, and 17-percent nylon, 150-grams-per-square-meter blend that features all听of the temperature regulating, low-stink properties of wool. It’s durable enough for everyday wear and comes in a smooth fabric that鈥檚 just heavy enough to create a flattering drape without clinging to your skin.

Best Work Pants

Fjallraven Vida Pro Trousers

I鈥檝e gone on the record with my feelings for the stretchier Fjallraven Kebs, but for daily wear, I find myself wearing the Vida Pros more often. Employing the brand鈥檚 G-1000 waxed polyester cotton, they fit and look similar to a pair of jeans, and are even more hard-wearing. I fill the pockets with all sorts of essentials like dog poop bags, multitools, headlamps, and, when we鈥檙e in grizzly country, spare magazines. These pants have sturdy belt loops that stand up to stiff belts and heavy holsters.

Best Base Layer

Beyond Bask LS Base Layer Top

It鈥檚 the job of a base layer to wick moisture and help regulate body temperature. Made from a very light version of Polartec鈥檚 Power Grid fabric, these Beyond shirts听perform that job better than anything else I鈥檝e ever worn. The open nature of the weave is super breathable: it dumps heat and keeps me feeling cool even during strenuous exercise. Slow down, and that same pattern traps tons of air next to your skin, providing an impressive amount of insulation. They鈥檙e warm when you need them to be, cool when you don’t, and the polyester-spandex blend absorbs virtually no moisture. Best of all? These base layers are on sale right now for less than half of their retail price.

Best Puffy Jacket

Patagonia Macro Puff Hoody

Much warmer than Patagonia鈥檚 ultralight Micro Puff, the Macro is perfect for when temperatures plummet and the nights grow long. The other evening, I swung by a bonfire to greet some friends I hadn鈥檛 seen in a while. I was exhausted, emotional, and not dressed properly after a long weekend worrying about a sick dog. Pulling this jacket out of my truck enabled me to stick around well听after听the sun disappeared. As a bonus, the Macro Puff is听long for a more parka-like fit, but still packs away to virtually nothing. Complete with warm-when-wet synthetic insulation, this layer is a reliable fall staple.

Best Work Gloves

Showa 282-02 Waterproof Gloves

These Japanese offshore fishing gloves are a cult favorite in the ice climbing world, where their rubber construction keeps your hands reliably dry. While I can report that their waterproofing is top-notch for working in wet conditions, the extremely thin fleece liner isn’t听warm enough for less-strenuous activities in below-freezing conditions. So instead, I wear them for chilly, wet, messy jobs before deep cold makes them impractical.

One of those jobs was cleaning out my gutters last night. Digging through muddy leaf waste to clear clogged drains is a job I wouldn鈥檛 wish on any of my leather gloves, but these things offer just the right blend of tactility, durability, and a tiny bit of warmth. Plus, the rubber makes them easy to just rinse off under a tap. Just be aware that their sizing runs small. I wear the largest size鈥擷XL鈥攁nd they鈥檙e still not quite big enough for my size-ten hands.

Best Softshell Jacket

Sitka Jet Stream Jacket

Renowned in the hunting world for providing reliable protection from nasty conditions, the Jet Stream combines a burly, woven polyester exterior with a Gore Windstopper membrane and a cozy microfleece liner. Windstopper isn鈥檛 fully waterproof, but provides enough protection for a light shower or most snow conditions, while completely blocking wind and remaining reasonably breathable. It’s perfectly comfortable in most cool-to-cold conditions. Sitka redesigned its most popular jacket in 2022 with new cuffs and zippers and more colors, but I wear the same one I鈥檝e had since 2016. It still looks like new.

Best Work Boots

Lowa Camino Evo Boots

These boots听aren鈥檛 as light, agile, or good looking as the now-discontinued Lowa Baldos, but they鈥檙e close enough to still transition well from a casual night out to a mountain trail. With conditions getting wetter, it鈥檚 time to re-oil this pair, which is now entering its third year on my feet.

I鈥檒l switch the Lowa Camino听out for a taller pair of Lowa Hunter GTX Evo Extremes once the snow starts sticking. The Hunter GTX is听insulated with 200 grams of Primaloft Gold, which keeps my feet warm in below-freezing conditions.

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The post These Are the Fall Layers I Can鈥檛 Live Without appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Every fall, my family piled into our station wagon and set out from suburban Boston to view the foliage in northern New England. I still have a shoebox full of the home movies my father shot on those weekend outings; the grainy, jouncy footage shows a succession of white band stands, weathered barns, mom-and-pop roadside motels, and my sister doing cartwheels in swirls of falling leaves.

Even then, I got the message that while New Hampshire and Maine were indeed pretty (and, bonus points, had amusement parks with trained bears and pet-able deer), Vermont鈥攑ristine, billboard-free, and broad-vistaed鈥攚as the gold and orange and crimson standard of leaf peepery. It turns out it wasn鈥檛 just my family鈥檚 opinion. There鈥檚 solid science to back that up.

Things to Know About Vermont鈥檚 Fall Foliage

A combination of factors makes Vermont foliage hard to beat in North America, according to William Keeton, a professor of forest ecology and forestry at the University of Vermont, in Burlington. For starters, more than three-quarters of the state is forested鈥攁nd one out of four trees are showoff-y maples. A riot of species comprise the other 75 percent.

鈥淲e have such diversity here: American beech, yellow and paper birch, red oak, white ash, poplars, willows, aspen, alder, and others鈥攁nd they each yield different colors,鈥� Keeton says. 鈥淭hen there鈥檚 the diversity of the topography, with different elevations and aspects and landforms, and different climate conditions that influence foliage timing and intensity. The result is a mosaic of color that鈥檚 quite breathtaking.鈥�

This magic triggers in late summer by the onset of cooler nights and shorter days, signaling chlorophyll, the green pigment that allows trees to create energy from light, to dissipate. When it does, the leaves鈥� true colors emerge in what Keeton calls 鈥渢he great reveal.鈥�

Vividness varies from year to year, depending on rainfall, temperatures, and other factors leading up to the season. While scientists are concerned that climate change may be leading to a dulling, shortening, or shifting of the foliage period, they admit that the exact recipe for optimal color remains a mystery.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 part of what makes it so fun and exciting,鈥� Keeton says. 鈥淲e never know how it鈥檚 going to play out.鈥�

What is certain is that the technicolor wave starts in northern Vermont in the highest elevations around mid-September and and ends in the valleys in the southern part of the state sometime in mid-to-late October. You can watch it as it unfolds with a or you can just get in the car and drive. Here are nine of the most beautiful places to check out Vermont鈥檚 big show.

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1. Underhill

You could join the masses in Stowe and ascend Mount Mansfield, Vermont鈥檚 highest peak, by car, gondola, or foot. But for a less congested approach, consider starting in Underhill, on the mountain鈥檚 western flank. A rewarding roughly five-mile loop follows the Frost Trail to the more challenging Maple Ridge Trail and a rocky scramble up to Mansfield鈥檚 鈥淔orehead,鈥� then descends via the mellower Butler Lodge Trail through hardwood forest. Find more bliss back in Underhill鈥檚 Pleasant Valley, where a 20-mile gravel and paved bike loop winds through a wonder of silo-studded farmland backed by Mansfield鈥檚 snaking ridgeline.

Don鈥檛 Miss: , a self-service bakery near Underhill Center, selling sweet (maple cream!) and savory (pulled pork mac-n-cheese!) pies.

2. Shelburne

, a 1400-acre education nonprofit, was founded by a Vanderbilt heir in the late 19th century as an agricultural showplace. Walk the pastoral grounds along the Lake Champlain shoreline and past the grand estate house turned inn, and visit the Farm Barn, where听 cheesemakers produce award-winning cheddar (my go-to is their clothbound variety) with milk from the resident Brown Swiss herd. Then head south to hundred-year-old and its diminutive 968-foot namesake peak. The summit trail was recently improved with stone stairways; the killer view of farms, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondacks remains the same.

Don鈥檛 Miss: The ridgetop , in nearby Monkton, for you-pick apples and their signature Dreamee, that is, maple soft serve ice cream atop a warm cider donut.

3. East Burke

The renowned Kingdom Trails 100-mile mountain bike network, carved out of private land in the state鈥檚 rugged Northeast Kingdom, celebrates its 30th anniversary with three new trails in the Kitchell area, including Drop It!, a triple black diamond with jumps and drops. When and if you鈥檙e ready to get off the bike, make the 15-mile drive north to cold, deep Lake Willoughby, a fjord-like glacial gash between the sheer flanks of Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor; trails on both peaks lead to magnificent overlooks.

Know Before You Go: Most of the bike center鈥檚 trails and roads damaged by two bouts of flooding rains in July have been repaired, but check for updates.

4. Waitsfield

The funky, slow 1948 single chairlift at the co-op-owned cranks up for foliage viewing on three consecutive weekends starting September 28 and costs just $20 ($15 for kids and seniors) to partake. Once you reach the summit, head north or south for an out-and-back ramble on the ridgeline . For a different perspective on the Mad River Valley, make your way to nearby Fayston to saddle up for a guided trail ride (from $133) on country roads and through open meadows.

Don鈥檛 Miss: , just off Route 100, serving stellar IPAs, including their flagship Sip O鈥� Sunshine, in a soaring post-and-beam taproom with a mountain-view outdoor patio.

5. Windsor

Mount Ascutney, an isolated 3,144-foot monadnock, dominates the landscape in the Upper Valley of the Connecticut River, where I live. You can pedal or drive the narrow 1930s Mount Ascutney Parkway or hike the five-mile round-trip Weathersfield trail to get to the top, but since the summit is mainly forested, you鈥檒l want to climb the 25-foot observation tower for the 360-degree, Green and White Mountains panorama. Back in the valley, book a self-guided canoe or kayak trip with ; they鈥檒l shuttle you and your chosen craft to a put-in on the broad Connecticut (from $43).

Don鈥檛 Miss: The 1866 Cornish-Windsor bridge, the longest wooden covered span in the United States, connecting Vermont to New Hampshire.

6. Woodstock

With its flawless brick-front shops and whitewashed historic homes, Woodstock is la-la land Vermont. And sometimes that鈥檚 what you want鈥攅ven if it means dodging tour groups. I like to take in the tidy village from the top of Mount Tom, either by hustling up the heavily used Faulkner Trail or by taking the longer Pogue route, which begins on Victorian-age carriage roads in Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. Mount Peg, another in-town peak, has 16 miles of woods and meadow trails co-managed by the Woodstock Area Mountain Bike Association and the , where you can spend the night. (Rooms from $669).

Know Before You Go: After being overrun by social media followers vying for shots of the ridiculously scenic Sleepy Hollow Farm, Cloudland Road is closed from September 25 through October 16 to all but residents.

7. Manchester

Stately 19th century homes, flanked in the west by soaring 3,848-foot Mount Equinox, the highest peak in the Taconic range, and yes, a strip of designer apparel outlet stores, make this southern Vermont shire town a hot spot for visitors. You can drive to the top of Equinox on the serpentine five-mile toll road or hike up on the relentlessly steep Blue Summit trail through forests of beech, yellow birch, and maple. For more level miles, walk the landscaped grounds of Hildene, the 1905 summer estate of Robert Todd Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln鈥檚 son and the president of the Pullman Palace Car Company.

Know Before You Go: Hildene鈥檚 Many Voices exhibit chronicling the lives of the Black Pullman porters is the southernmost stop on the , which takes you to historical and cultural sites that explore the stories of Black Vermonters.

8. Bennington

It鈥檚 no surprise that this is Robert Frost country; the poet is buried in the Old First Church cemetery near the curved white picket fences and stately homes of sugar maple-lined Monument Avenue. A 20-mile loop drive through North Bennington and Shaftsbury takes you past Frostian covered bridges and old stone walls. Make time to stop at the , the poet鈥檚 home for most of the 1920s, where readings, lectures and workshops are held throughout the fall. . From there, the gently sloping two-mile Robert Frost trail traverses his old apple orchard and leads to Lake Paran, with inspiring views along the way of the Berkshires, Taconics, and Greens.听

Don鈥檛 Miss: The classic 1948听 , saved from post-Covid closure by a nostalgic Bennington College alum. The menu features lots of vegetarian options, but let鈥檚 be honest, post-leaf-peeping moments usually call for a Reuben.

9. Newfane

The town green in this tiny village is at the center of an extraordinary collection of architectural gems, including a columned Greek Revival courthouse and inn, two imposing Gothic Revival churches, and a brick Romanesque bank. Grab snacks at the 1822 Newfane Country Store, then head east to the for a low-key woodland stroll or run to the wide-open summit. You鈥檒l have the company of birdwatchers participating in the annual Hawk Watch; every autumn, thousands of migrating hawks and other raptors can be seen riding the ridgeline thermals.

Know Before You Go: Newfane鈥檚 adorableness peaks on October 12 and 13 during its , when local volunteers sell (by the slice or whole) the more than 200 apple pies they baked for the occasion.

The post The 9 Best Places to View Vermont鈥檚 Fall Foliage in All Its Glory appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Colorado is home to four seasons of vast wonders, with its mountain views, wide-open spaces, and opportunities to connect with the land. It鈥檚 no surprise the state attracts hikers, mountain bikers, skiers, and road-trippers from around the world. But Colorado鈥檚 beauty is on full display in fall, when the landscape transitions into a golden masterpiece鈥攁 dream for any outdoor enthusiast. To fully capture the magic of , we talked to three members of the , an inclusive community dedicated to mountaincraft education, adventure, and conservation.

Road Trips

Fall road trips are an excellent way to explore Colorado鈥檚 diverse landscapes. The best person to ask about the state鈥檚 is Matt Enquist. As the author of Colorado鈥檚 Best Hikes for Fall Colors, Enquist has driven all over the state in search of the best destinations to see the changing leaves. He lives in a hiking, skiing, and climbing haven鈥攖he San Luis Valley, in south-central Colorado. The area is home to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve and the impressive Sangre de Cristo Range.

国产吃瓜黑料: Colorado is packed with beautiful driving routes. What do you love most about fall road-tripping in Colorado?听

Matt Enquist: I love the fresh, cool air and the hunt for the perfect campsite. There鈥檚 no time to be outside like in the fall. The beauty of the changing leaves, the perfect weather, and the opportunity to get outside before a long winter truly make fall the best time of year.

Out of all the fall road trips you鈥檝e been on in Colorado, which one is the most memorable?听

When I was writing my book, my research took me all over the southwestern part of the state. The drive from up to along the famed , through , and down into via was truly incredible. The route has jaw-dropping color at every turn, prominent peaks, and some of the best camping I鈥檝e found. Ouray is full of hot-spring pit stops, Ridgway has great food, and Last Dollar Road is an adventure in and of itself. The dispersed camping overlooking Wilson Peak and its sea of yellow, red, and orange aspen leaves is world class.

Mountain Biking

The cool fall days in Colorado are perfect for mountain biking. And Riley Hanlon knows the state鈥檚 mountain biking trails well as a Colorado Mountain Club member and a freelance filmmaker based in . Home to miles and miles of glorious mountain biking areas, including North Table Mountain and White Ranch Park, Hanlon loves spending time riding with family near the Front Range and beyond.

There鈥檚 nothing quite like biking through colorful aspens in the crisp autumn air. Can you describe your perfect fall ride in Colorado?

Riley Hanlon: It鈥檚 finally time for layers and warm drinks! After the heat of summer, I get so excited for brisk fall mornings. I enjoy having cozy layers and hot coffee for the drive to wherever I鈥檓 riding and getting to start with some layers on for the ride, shedding them as I go without ever getting too hot. My perfect fall ride in Colorado also includes finding the best spots to fly through golden aspens!

If you could only recommend one Colorado mountain biking destination to someone planning a fall visit, what would it be and why?

People staying in the Rocky Mountain Front Range鈥攆rom to 鈥攖end to focus on getting out to or other far-out destinations, but I personally love . You can get some lift assist at if that鈥檚 your thing. Or get laps on the trail systems off Vasquez Creek for some easy-access rock rolls and great flow through aspen groves. And afterward you get to stroll through the village or get a beetroot latte from (my favorite!). It鈥檚 an enjoyable day trip from the Front Range or a good first or last stop on a camping trip out in the mountains.

Hiking

When it comes to finding scenic fall hiking trails in Colorado, Urszula Tyl knows exactly where to go. As a trip leader for Colorado Mountain Club, Tyl spends a lot of time safely guiding hikers into beautiful areas. She also enjoys exploring new trails and backpacking in Colorado鈥檚 pristine wilderness. Her vibrant energy and zest for getting people together outside made her the perfect person to ask about fall hiking in the state.

Colorado is a well-known hiking destination with a seemingly endless selection of trails to explore. Why is the state鈥檚 fall hiking unlike anywhere else?

Urszula Tyl: There are many reasons I look forward to fall hiking in Colorado. Fall brings pleasant temperatures, making it a perfect time to enjoy a hike. As summer ends, so does the monsoon season, which brings less risk of afternoon storms and more time on the trail.

Colorado also has spectacular fall foliage. The aspens all around the state begin to change color and create a beautiful contrast against the green pine forests and mountain landscapes. You don鈥檛 have to go far to get a glimpse of fall color. However, many areas across the state, such as , are especially breathtaking to see. If you visit RMNP in fall, you might hear elk bugling, too.

There are a variety of ways to experience the magic of fall in the state. Whether you鈥檙e looking for a multiday adventure, a morning hike in the mountains, or a cool evening stroll along the river, the options to get out and explore around the state are seemingly endless. There are trails for everyone in Colorado, including accessible trails in .

To experience the magic of Colorado trails in the fall, what area do you recommend visitors explore and why?

For a truly magical fall hiking experience in Colorado, I recommend exploring the in . This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the vibrant fall colors of the aspens among the rugged mountain peaks and pine trees.

The 3.1-mile Raccoon Trail is easily accessible to anyone staying in the Front Range and provides beautiful panoramic views throughout the hike. As you meander through the colorful foliage, you鈥檒l find serene spots that capture the essence of fall in Colorado.

After your hike, unwind in nearby Golden, where there are plenty of food options available. One of my favorites is the , a food hall with a diverse range of dining options, plus beer, cocktails, and wine on tap. Enjoy a variety of foods, from Mexican to sushi, and take advantage of the rooftop with views overlooking Clear Creek.

Colorado is a four-season destination offering unparalleled adventure and recreational pursuits, a thriving arts scene, a rich cultural heritage, flavorful cuisine, and 28 renowned ski areas and resorts. The state鈥檚 breathtaking scenic landscape boasts natural hot springs, the headwaters of seven major rivers, many peaceful lakes and reservoirs, 12 national parks and monuments, 26 scenic and historic byways, and 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet. For more information or a copy of the Colorado Official State Vacation Guide, visit or call 1-800-COLORADO. Follow Colorado on , , , and .

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Whether you鈥檙e looking for beautiful fall colors, a change of scenery for your remote office, or both, North Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination for any getaway. From its scenic hiking trails to the breathtaking lakeshore, the area鈥檚 vibrant fall colors just make everything better. To learn more about this awe-inspiring escape in the Sierra Nevada, we have some fall adventure tips from the team. Here鈥檚 what they said.

Why Fall Is Special

If you like vivid autumn colors, fun events, and open space, you鈥檒l love . During this secret season, the community celebrates with the Made in Tahoe Festival, two Oktoberfests (one in Tahoe City and one at Palisades Tahoe), a collection of food and wine festivals, and more. It鈥檚 also a perfect time to leaf-peep while exploring hiking or biking trails, taking a swing on a golf course, zipping down treetop ropes courses, walking along the beach, strolling around the destination鈥檚 12 unique towns, hopping in the water to kayak or stand-up paddle鈥攖he opportunities are endless. Come for a weekend getaway or midweek escape to breathe it all in and experience Lake Tahoe in the secret season.

Take a Trail

While there are hundreds of trails to explore, we collected the for hiking and biking in North Lake Tahoe to help narrow the selection. These are some of the trails that made the list:

• Tahoe Rim Trail North Shore Segment: A well-known 165-mile point-to-point trail, the Tahoe Rim encircles the entirety of the Tahoe Basin. Hiking a short segment of the trail along the North Shore is a great way to experience fall color along Lake Tahoe.
• Tunnel Creek Trail: The view at the top overlooks one of the best panoramic views in Lake Tahoe. This 4.7-mile out-and-back trail is also home to Monkey Rock.
• Eagle Rock Trail: This short 0.7-mile trail only takes about a half hour but carries a huge payoff. From the top of Eagle Rock, you get an incredible view of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains.
• Vikingsholm Trail: Take this 1.7- mile trail down to the Emerald Bay beaches and the historic Vikingsholm Castle (open for tours May 25鈥揝eptember 30). Keep in mind that it鈥檚 a steep hike back to the parking area from the shore.

Hiking and mountain biking are some of the most popular activities in the region, and it鈥檚 important to leave no trace by staying on the trail, packing out what you packed in, and giving wildlife space. Learn more and help in the region.

Get on the Water

The crystal-blue waters of Lake Tahoe create a one-of-a-kind fall backdrop. From an early morning walk on the beach to a sunset dinner cruise, time spent creates truly unforgettable experiences. Kayaking and paddleboarding are favorites, and you can use the to guide your journey along 72 miles of fun. The route connects designated launch and landing sites that feature restrooms and interpretive displays.

For a truly unique experience, during the day, or paddle an LED-lighted kayak on a guided stargazing tour. And if you plan to bring your own watercraft, please wash, clean, and dry it before putting it into the lake to help prevent the spread of invasive species.

along the lakeshore or on the river is a great activity for any age. You can also cast a line from a boat or kayak. Trout and salmon are common catches along the West Shore, in Sawmill Lake (reservations required), and at Martis Reservoir. Be sure you understand safe fish handling and catch-and-release practices.

Try the Bites and Brews

North Lake Tahoe is home to some of the most enticing options in Northern California and Nevada. And the beer scene isn鈥檛 too shabby either! Take your pick of more than 150 restaurants and breweries. Some spots will also welcome your four-legged companions.

The ultimate resource for finding a frosty brew after an outdoor adventure? The . From most trailheads, there鈥檚 a world-class brewery, bar, or restaurant nearby. This means you can start your day working up a sweat and end it with regionally crafted refreshments. If rum is more to your liking, check out the 鈥攁 collection of five restaurants and bars located around the North Lake Tahoe shoreline offering specialty rum cocktails.

Looking for the ? Download this . Dine in or take your meal to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables along the beaches鈥攋ust be sure to dispose of your trash in the designated receptacles.

国产吃瓜黑料 Deeper

Midweek adventures offer more open space. With 12 unique towns, it can be hard to choose a base camp, but we鈥檝e created a and itineraries to help guide you to the best town for you. By extending your stay, you have time to explore more of North Lake Tahoe. If you need a hand in planning, we have your . Just spin the compass and uncover your ideal itinerary in the mountains, on the lake, and around town. Ultimately, an extended trip allows you to more freely explore the region, escape into nature, and feel rejuvenated.

North Lake Tahoe spans two states鈥擟alifornia and Nevada鈥攁nd boasts two dozen beaches, 11 downhill ski resorts, ten cross-country ski areas, hundreds of miles of biking and hiking trails, and communities filled with local artisans and shopping experiences. North Lake Tahoe is a 45-minute drive from Reno-Tahoe International Airport, two hours from Sacramento International Airport, and just over three hours from San Francisco International Airport. Visitor information centers are located at 100 North Lake Boulevard in Tahoe City, 8611 North Lake Boulevard in Kings Beach, and 969 Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village. For more information, visit .

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The brisk bite of autumn air always adds some pep to my step on my morning runs, but it also puts me in the mood for apples, which are just beginning to tumble off their branches. As we sink into fall, freshly-picked Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp and more begin popping up everywhere, from farmers鈥� markets to bakeries to hot apple cider stands. In that vein, 鈥檛is the season to remember one of the world鈥檚 most delightful and overlooked spirits, apple brandy, whose golden glow and heady apple perfume makes it the perfect sip on brisk autumn evenings.

Apple spirits are everywhere from New York state to California to the Carolinas; a welcome, trendy drink that becomes even more profound if you know a little bit about its crucial and complicated heritage on this continent. The bitter history that follows makes today鈥檚 rich apple spirits all the more sweet.

The Potentially Dangerous History of Apple Jacking

America鈥檚 original 鈥渇avorite drink鈥� was not bourbon or rye like you鈥檇 expect, but apple cider. The apple tree was key for settlers who tamed the rugged North American continent. As most people know, Johnny Appleseed was not out distributing seeds of Granny Smiths or Pink Ladies, but rather tart, indigestible apples. Although they don鈥檛 sound particularly appealing, these apples were grown to produce cider, a godsend that was safer to drink than water, and both cheap and easy to make . As delicious as they are, typical 鈥渆ating鈥� apples that we enjoy as snacks make bland cider. Bitter apples may be inedible, but via fermentation and distillation, effuse aromas and flavors vastly more complex and beguiling than anything you鈥檒l ever get from a piece of raw fruit.听

Apple cider is best turned to hard alcohol using a dedicated pot still. But these weren鈥檛 common in the early centuries of this country, hence the funny-sounding technique known as jacking. Alcohol freezes at a lower temperature than water, thus, in winter, when cider is allowed to freeze outdoors, chunks of ice can be periodically removed from the vat. This leaves behind a liquid of even more concentrated alcohol.

Alas, the process of apple jacking lacks precision. While the hard spirit in applejack contains methanol, a dangerous chemical (think blindness, kidney failure), is removed during the responsible, modern distillation of today, that wasn鈥檛 always the case with jacking. And at the end of the 19th century, the degradations on the health of American drinkers (and general drunkenness) made applejack the major target of the rising temperance movement, whose ascendance led not only to but also to the destruction of of apple orchards, effectively killing the apple spirits industry.

Cider apples never came back. In their place, farmers planted grain鈥攃heaper, quicker to grow, and easier to distill鈥攇iving rise to our dominant domestic whiskey industry. The destruction of the American orchard had a cost beyond fruit. Lost too was the cornucopia of genetic material contained in apple trees that had adapted from their European roots to American soils and climates.

The Best Apple Brandy听

The original and, in my opinion, best apple brandy is called Calvados, which comes from Normandy in the northwest corner of France. Here, ancient apple (and pear) orchards thrive, and scores of different varieties are blended to create a complex, vivid spirit. Oak aging is key, as unaged apple spirits can be a bit harsh. Allowing a raw apple spirit to mature for years in a barrel, can make the difference between tart, unripe fruit and apple pie. Look for Calvados producers like Adrien Camus, Lemorton, and Roger Groult for examples of addictively good spirits. They still have a little bite, but also the warm, familiar, comforting flavor of baked apple. Longer-aged spirits are more expensive, but also more rich and complex.

Because of the loss of cider trees, a fair bit of American apple brandy comes from eating apples, which makes for a simpler, less exciting spirit. That said, America’s bourgeoning apple brandies are well worth trying. New Jersey鈥檚 , dating from 1698 and the oldest continuously run distillery in the country, is still the largest producer. Out west look for wonderful apple brandies from old-school distillers like Oregon鈥檚 Clear Creek and California鈥檚 St. George Spirits. But all over the country, newer craft distillers are also getting into the game. Black Dirt Distilling, Copper & Kinds, and Neversink from New York鈥檚 Hudson Valley make very flavorful stuff. Outfits like Saint Paul Farms from North Carolina are already producing good spirits, but also growing thousands of new, bitter apple trees whose fruit will be perfect for cider. Follow these spirits over the next few years鈥攖hey will only get better and better.

So, as the weather turns colder and we all become more contemplative, warm yourself up with a little apple brandy and take in not only the beautiful present autumn moment but also the apple鈥檚 deep .

How to Drink Apple Brandy

For good quality, I recommend aged Calvados. I love to drink it neat in a little spirits tasting glass, tumbler, or snifter. If it鈥檚 over proof or simply tastes too strong, it鈥檚 perfectly acceptable to add a splash of water to tame the alcohol.听

Calvados is also great in cocktails or even just mixed with a little soda water or tonic. For a simple, yet delicious fall Calvados cocktail, I might recommend an apple blossom. This version I adapted from the recipe on Difford鈥檚 Guide, which is adapted from the version in Trader Vic鈥檚 Bartender’s Guide, 1972 edition.听

Apple Blossom Cocktail

Ingredients听

• 2 oz Calvados or Apple Brandy
• 1.5 oz Red Vermouth (I prefer Dolin)听
• 2 dashes orange bitters听
• 1 dash of saline solution or a tiny pinch of salt听

Directions

1. Stir all the ingredients together in a pitcher filled with ice and strain into a chilled cocktails glass.听

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Autumn is an inflection point for hikers: As the leaves fall, we bid goodbye to summer鈥檚 balmy temperatures and long days and start thinking more seriously about the cold. We trade up our lightweight bags for heavier ones, find ourselves planning out our clothing strategy, and try to remember what R-value our pads are (and anyway).听

I struggle with that seasonal transition every year, just a little bit. It鈥檚 not that I hate camping in the cold (I don鈥檛) or that I forget how to layer (I live in Colorado鈥擨鈥檝e gotten snowed on in August). But fall is a time of constant change, when you can encounter summer-like warmth or early-season snow in a single day, so there鈥檚 no single surefire strategy to prepping for a trip. Still, there are a couple of rules that can as the temperatures drop. We asked Backpacker鈥檚 editors to share their hard-won lessons about what not to do during the third season.

Bringing a Warm Coat When You Need a Warm Sleeping Bag

Especially when you鈥檙e hiking in an area that鈥檚 high-altitude or dry (or, like where I live, both), autumn temperatures can dip drastically at night, dropping from balmy to freezing. Does that mean you should pack an and ? Not necessarily. It鈥檚 easy to forget when you鈥檙e staring down that weather forecast, but most backpackers are wrapped up and cozy in their tents long before that overnight low hits. Unless your route takes you across a mountain pass or some other high-altitude terrain where you could face unpredictable and dangerous weather, consider bringing a more modest midlayer, eating an early, high-calorie dinner, and getting into bed before the mercury nosedives.

One thing you don鈥檛 want to skimp on? A warm sleeping bag. While you鈥檒l probably survive spending a chilly autumn night wrapped up in a summerweight bag or quilt, you鈥檒l likely be shivering too hard to sleep much. Invest in a lightweight three-season bag like the , and unless you know you sleep warm, resist the urge to push the temperature rating.

Forgetting the Gloves

One thing you shouldn鈥檛 leave at home: the gloves. Your fingers are one of the first parts of your body to get cold, as your circulatory system automatically diverts warm blood to your torso in response to chilly conditions. Losing feeling in your fingers can quickly spiral from a nuisance into a safety issue as you begin to fumble with your gear. You don鈥檛 need to carry a set of heavyweight ski mitts: A pair of heavyweight liners or light fleece gloves like the Outdoor Research Vigor, or even a light pair of fleece mittens if you contend with poor circulation, should be more than enough for most backpackers.

Leaving the Sun Protection at Home

Everyone knows you have to sunscreen up during the peak days of summer, and most of us have learned that we need to make sure we鈥檙e protecting our skin during the snowiest months of winter. But while it鈥檚 true you may not be in the same danger of sunburn during fall鈥檚 shorter days as you were in the dog days, we have sad news for you: You can still get scorched during shoulder season. If you haven鈥檛 cultivated a year-round sun-protection habit, now is a good time to start. Keep a solid mineral sunscreen handy, but if you don鈥檛 want to remember to lather up, fall is also a great time to add a UV-protective long-sleeve layer like the into your rotation.

Going Stoveless

So you decided to go for it, leaving your stove at home and dedicating yourself to for the summer? Well, part of making a smooth transition to fall is knowing when to dig that Pocket Rocket out again. While you can still cold-soak during the chillier months, it鈥檚 an advanced-level move that we鈥檇 only recommend to the most masochistic of ultralighters. As a 20-something, I learned that the hard way after bringing only cold food on a shoulder-season trip in central Argentina鈥檚 Sierras de C贸rdoba. Now, I tote a canister stove and make something to warm myself inside and out. For best results, .听

Not Double-Checking Water Sources听

Assuming that a water source that runs in summer is still firing in fall is an unforced error that too many backpackers make. By October or November, creeks and springs that have been flush since the spring melt may be starting to run dry, especially in the desert. If you鈥檙e counting on them to refill your bottle, you may be in for some . Even in 2023, the best solution to this problem is still the most old-school one: Ask someone who knows. Call up the park service, your local ranger station, or a nearby hiking group and ask them for the beta on any seasonal water sources along your route. (We鈥檝e occasionally had luck checking recent comments on sites like AllTrails, but your mileage may vary, especially with routes that don鈥檛 see a lot of visitors.) Summer springs all dried up? Plan on carrying a little extra H2O.

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If summer is the season of refreshing drinks by the water, then fall is the seasons of cozy beverages by a bonfire or curled up in a quilted blanket. Whether you鈥檙e warming up at home after a long hike or settling in for an evening by the campfire, the perfect beverage pairing is essential. While we鈥檒l never say no to a flask of Knob Creek, mixing it up a little can feel celebratory (and taste delicious).

For outside-the-box recommendations on what to sip this fall, we tapped four food and beverage professionals to get their take on the ideal fall cocktails.

Farm and Fish House Punch

Danny Childs, the bar manager at New Jersey鈥檚 Farm and Fisherman Tavern and the mind behind , an Instagram account that chronicles Childs鈥� constant exploration of the region鈥檚 foraged and farmed products, offered an Applejack-centered bourbon and rum punch. This sip should be prepared ahead of time, as the base requires overnight steeping. Oleo-saccharum is made by steeping lemon peels with sugar and spice overnight, or for at least eight hours. It has a strong taste of apple cider vinegar, albeit sweetened with sugar, and can be served hot or cold.

Get the recipe

Ivy Mix鈥檚 Fall Cranberry Spritz

Ivy Mix, who runs Leyenda, a pan-Latin bar, and Fiasco Wine and Spirits, both in Brooklyn, offered a cranberry gin spritz that somehow lands both refreshing and cozy, perfect for those still-a-little-warm fall afternoons. This spritz is like a spiced lemonade with a hint of tartness and a lot of cranberry. It’s intentionally low in alcohol, but you can add more gin if desired.

Get the recipe

Fall Espresso Spritz & Mezcal Negroni

Cybille St. Aude-Tate and Omar Tate, the husband and wife team behind Honeysuckle Provisions, a trailblazing culinary concept in Philadelphia, have opposite approaches to the autumn drink. Tate recommends an espresso spritz lightly sweetened with apple cider, which has a bit of caffeine so he can keep up with his kids. This drink mixed unfiltered apple cider with sparkling water so it’s still bubbly but the espresso gives it a nutty, lovely taste. On the other hand, St. Aude-Tate prefers to sip on a mezcal negroni during a rare quiet moment at the end of a busy day. Even though an ice-cold negroni isn’t what most people think of for a cozy fall drink, this classic cocktail is spiced up by using mezcal rather than gin.

Get the recipes here and here

Whatever your needs for a fall-weather drink, we鈥檝e got something to suit your fancy all season long.

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