NAKED PRE SOLSTICE HIKE - STRATTON MOUNTAIN

At total of 6 of us gathered for the hike, some arriving already naked, others quickly disrobing and donning our packs.  After getting acquainted at the trail head parking lot, we then began our hike.  The weather was cloudy with sun poking trough at times and the temp was mid 60's, perfect for hiking.  We reached the summit of Stratton Mountain and climbed the firetower where we all in awe of the 360 degree view.  As the day progressed, the sun became more promionent and the temp warmed up to the low 70's.  We had lunch at the summit and then headed to Stratton Pond where some of the group went for a swim.  After the swim, we took a group photo to commemortate our visit.  We then continued our hike and returned to the trailhead parking lot where we shared our thoughts on the experience and regretting having to get dressed once again.  It was a great day of hiking and comraderie.  Thanks to everyone who participated for making the day awesome!

The group has decided to add an additional hike the day prior to the annual solstice hike.  This hike takes place on the Stratton Mount Loop Trail in Stratton Vermont.  The total distance covered is 10.9 miles, should take about 7 hours to complete with stopping for lunch and an afternoon swim, and the elevation gain of approximately 2,000 feet.  The hike begins at the trail head parking lot on Stratton Arlington Road.  From the parking lot, the trail heads north over gently rolling terrain.  After 1.4 miles the trail ascends a series of switchbacks to a southern facing vista at 2.0 miles.  The trail continues to ascend and at 2.7 miles climbs another series of switchbacks passing a spring at 3.2 miles and reaches the summit at 3.8 miles, where we will most likely stop for lunch.  On the summit there is a fire tower, no longer used for fire spotting, that offers a 360-degree view.  After lunch, we continue our hike and descend the summit by another series of switchbacks after which the trail reaches a western facing vista.  The trail then descends at a gradual grade, crosses Forest Road #341 at 5.8 miles and continues on reaching a foot bridge over a brook at 6.4 miles.  The trail then ascends gradually reaching the junction of the Stratton Pond Trail at 6.9 miles.  From here we descend .1 mile to Willis Ross Camp and the shore of Stratton Pond where we will stop for a swim.  After the swim, we traverse the .1 mile back to the trail junction where we take the Stratton Pond Trail south and in a short distance the trail joins with the Catamount Trail.  The trail continues with little elevation change and at 8.6 miles the Catamount trail diverges.  We continue on the Stratton Pond Trail to Kelly Stand Road at 10.9 miles where we will have spotted some cars and will then car pool back to the trail head parking lot.  For those also participating in the naked hike on 6/21, there are numerous inexpensive accommodations in Manchester, VT as well as a number of good restaurants.  For further info on food and lodging, feel free to contact me directly.