northeast kingdom | River's world…..

For a place we never knew existed and just happily stumbled upon, it was more than a pleasant surprise.

Lake Willoughby, 5 miles long with a max depth of 325 feet. A glacial lake parked between two fjord like mountains in Westmore Vermont.

The path around the south end was easy walking and well marked.

With some seriously beautiful views.

The little beach was tiny, but I imagine it’s packed with swimmers in the summer.

The boardwalk was a nice addition as the ground was a bit soggy.

Shame it was so cold and windy, I could easily have pulled up a stump and relaxed here for hours.

Even the stairs were kind.

If you’re ever in the area check it out.

And don’t forget your camera.

Since we weren’t in a huge hurry to get home, we took the longer scenic route back and that meant driving through the Northeast Kingdom.

It’s a rural and mountainous region of Vermont, similar to areas in northern Maine with its low population density and differing political views.

Unspoiled and undisturbed.

Beautiful? You betcha!

This region takes their designation seriously so you’ll find “Kingdom” gas stations and “Kingdom” diners scattered throughout the area.

There’s even a covered bridge staircase.

While the majority of Vermont is an environmentally friendly, liberal, churn your own butter, Birkenstock type of place… the Kingdom is a bit wilder and leans much farther right. It’s often said there are two Maines, southern and northern.. I find that’s true of Vermont as well.