https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?hl=en&authuser=0&mid=1hf7Bdj33GYEc0hZVdAQZaE_e8A0
Month: October 2016
A Bird’s Eye View + New Findings
Upon visiting my spot this week, I noticed some definite changes in the landscape of Salmon Hole. First of all, due to the increase in rain in the past week, the water level was visibly higher, with more areas of the exposed rock face covered by small pools of water. In addition, the water was definitely flowing more rapidly, and was significantly deeper as well – waterproof boots are a must when exploring! Besides the change in water level, many of the trees, which previously were just beginning to transition to their beautiful autumn hues, have fully blossomed into various shades of crimson, amber, and golden yellow, and the once dirt paths around the park are now blanketed in a quilt of fallen leaves. The only signs of animals I could find were through the paw prints pressed into the sandy shores of the Winooski River, clearly left by that day’s dog walkers, clearly not wildlife. Due to the minimal vegetation immediately surrounding my location, I doubt the area has much wildlife at all besides the salmon and other fish that swim in the river. But on this particular afternoon even the fish were absent; in the past, the river was littered with various fishermen hoping for a lucky catch, but now they were absent. As temperatures continue to drop and threats of snow begin to appear in the forecast, one can only imagine what Salmon Hole will look like in a few weeks or even days.
Salmon Hole: A hidden jewel in the town of Winooski
A quick walk away from Trinity Campus is Salmon Hole, the ultimate escape hidden in the nearby town of Winooski. Wooded trails lead down to a bend in the Winooski River, where the currents ripple over exposed bedrock, bordered by dense foliage beginning to show the first signs of fall color. Industrial smokestacks and the tops of building peak over the treetops, reminding you that the city and campus are just around the corner.
From Trinity Campus, take a left out of the driveway and head down Colchester Avenue. The road curves around a corner, then quickly begins to descend into the town of Winooski. At the intersection, make a left and cross the street in the crosswalk, and make another left. From there, you’ll soon see the sign for Salmon Hole, a small parking lot, and your first views of the river’s bend through the trees. Continue walking down the sidewalk until 2 stone pillars appear on your right, marking the trailhead. As you head down the leaf-covered dirt path, you’ll encounter a fork in the path, labeled the River Walk Trail, one continuing with stairs and one without. You can take either path; it’s actually a loop, and both will lead you down to the same location.
At the end of the stairs, take the path to the right towards the water, you’ll come upon a clearing and see your first glimpse of the Winooski River and the rock face. Often times, there will be fishermen wading in the currents, either salmon or fly-fishing. Adventure out onto the smooth rocks, and be careful! If you look to your left, you’ll see multiple layers of rock, assumably shaped by ancient glaciers, backed by a beautiful curtain of trees which are just beginning to turn vibrant shades of crimson, scarlet, mahogany, and gold. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, the blue sky
After admiring the view, continue heading left along the divide between woody plants and rock, towards the calmer part of the river. You’ll notice that the riverbank forms a small beach area, maybe an 8ft drop from where you stand on the rocks. From here, you have a great view of the entire area, with the nearby city of Winooski peaking over the fluorescent treetops. Head towards the edge of the rock face, and you’ll notice a set of nature-formed “stairs” – climb down carefully, especially if it has rained in the past few days – they will be slippery, and the drop is bigger than you think! Strategic foot placement is key, and you may want to slide on your bottom, keep your hands free to aid you, or remove any packs you may be carrying.
You’ll find yourself in a little alcove created by the half-wall of rocks that surround you, and the path you just climbed down doubles as the perfect spot to take a seat and absorb the pure beauty of the landscape that surrounds you. Enjoy the serenity of the Winooski River, the rustling of the leaves, and the peacefulness of this perfectly picturesque sanctuary, far enough from campus to escape all stress, responsibility, and worry; the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. That’s why I love this location; it’s a place where I can come to be alone with my thoughts, enjoy the company of friends, share a picnic, read a book, take photographs, and take a break from college for an hour or two. It’s a safe haven, secluded from the rest of the world.
From here, you can continue to explore to the left or to the right; each is equally beautiful and rewarding in its own way. Heading to the right, you’ll find yourself hopping around on exposed bedrock, jagged and home to the occasional pool of water from the last rain. There’s very little vegetation here, but you will find rock towers expertly crafted by others before you, defying the odds of gravity with their perfect balance. From here, you’ll likely notice more fishermen wading in the waters with their bait and tackles, hoping for a good catch. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to splash in the puddles and jump from rock to rock – overwhelming memories from childhood will come rushing back as you carelessly embrace the moment.
Heading to the left, you’ll notice that most of the exposed bedrock has been replaced by coarse, rocky white sand. Instead of wide open air, the landscape has become more densely wooded, with much more vegetation as you head back towards the forest. Here you’ll find a variety of woody plants and trees, including red maples, silver maples, yellow birch, american beech, and black cherry, in addition to various shrubs and other small plants.
