Leaf Peepers

That's what the locals call tourists who come for the Fall to see the phenomenon of leaves changing colour, so we've well and truly joined the ranks.

We're staying in an annexe building on the 120 acre estate at Crisanver and when we stepped out of our  cottage first thing this morning, this was the view that met us.

There were a couple of large white tailed deer grazing  on the grass in front of the dining room in the early morning light but before we could get the camera set up they were startled and so quickly pranced away.

Whilst we were eating breakfast in the main building we caught sight of our first chipmunk, an animal very similar to a squirrel but smaller.

Although the weather was still overcast, we decided that today was the day when we should attack the Appalachian Trail, so we set off on a five mile walk that takes in a small part of that 2175 mile long route. It was a steep and slippery walk - hard on the lungs going up and on the knees coming down!

Taking it slowly, one step at a time

Stone cairns along the track

Stunning views from the top of White Rocks

Mountains in the distance

Stopped for a rest at the top

After our descent we drove to Manchester, a picturesque town with upmarket shops and a particularly good book and toy shop with cafe. People come to this region for the winter skiing  so it's popular all year round.

Manchester, Vermont (not quite as busy as its UK namesake)

From there we drove back via one of Vermont's famous covered bridges. Most were built in the 19th century and were covered to protect the fabric of the bridge. They were wide and tall enough to accommodate a waggon loaded with hay and were sometimes known as kissing bridges because of the privacy they afforded courting couples.

Tomorrow we are heading further north to Jackson, New Hampshire passing through some of the most rugged mountains, trails, cliffs and forests in New England.