Smugglers Notch
I explored a higher elevation over spring break. I went for a short hike on a narrow, winding road that is closed for the winter. This time of year the road is used by hikers, skiers, and snow machine riders. The trees at the high elevation were different from those in the lower parts of Jeffersonville. I noticed a lot of white birch trees and some maples. It was surprisingly still a mostly deciduous forest. There were no hemlocks, my usual phenology spot is mainly hemlock trees.
I did not see a lot of animal tracks in the area aside from those of a domestic dog. I think that wild animals try to keep away from the large groups of tourists that are frequently on the road. Though animal tracks were few and far between, there was a lot of ski track both on the road (right) and in the surrounding forest (left). It is common for people to hike up the mountain and then ski down, some people even sled.
The area is very popular in the winter and there are amazing views so I completely understand why. My dog absolutely loves going on walks up the mountain. I did not see any bird species on my hike. That could be due to the elevation or the large groups of people that are constantly on the trail. I haven’t noticed a ton of bird species in my usual phenology spot either, I don’t think that bird watching is really my thing. Hopefully I will get to spot some once the weather gets nicer.
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