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Equinox Rambles meet at the Hill Farm Inn in Arlington VT and are offered on:

This trip is currently on hiatus, but is available as a FIT Custom Departure

 

Questions
jim@battenkill.com

 

Equinox Ramble

Canoeing and Walking in the

Valley of Vermont

 

The Green and Taconic mountain ranges along with the Batten Kill provide a spectacular background for our unique adventure. The combination of canoeing and walking allows us to fully discover this magical valley.

We will gain an understanding of why Norman Rockwell, Ethan Allan, and Dorothy Canfield Fisher all chose to call this place home. Our journey unfolds in the heart of the valley at the Hill Farm Inn, where the views are pleasing and the landscape is laid out like a lush carpet. The combination of relaxed country inn accommodations, exciting paddling and secluded tranquil walks make for the perfect weekend escape.

Our days will be spent exploring by foot on back roads, and pathways that lead us to hidden lakes and quiet overlooks. We take time to immerse ourselves in our surroundings and enjoy the here and now. Covered bridges and towering maple trees await us on the Batten Kill, an ideal canoeing river, we are invited to seek out its cooling swimming holes and quiet picnic spots.

We'll gather at the Hill Farm Inn. Located just down the road from our shop the inn offers the perfect location to fully explore and discover this wonderful valley. The classic farmhouse has wide board floors, antique furnishings and true country charm. Innkeepers Al and Lisa Gray will be on hand to welcome us and make us feel immediately at home. We'll soon sense the warm feeling of timeless relaxation. We settle into Hill Farm Inn for our entire trip allowing us the opportunity to fully explore this valley by foot and canoe.

On Saturday we plan a full day on the Batten Kill. The river offers gentle current while passing under four covered bridges. We will find isolated picnic spots and a chance to see kingfishers and blue herons long the bank. We can opt for a swim in the river and enjoy soaking up the sun on one of the many isolated river banks.
After a full day of activity we will settle into the peaceful serenity of the Hill Farm Inn. Relaxing on the large porch.

Sunday, after our fill at the breakfast table we set off for a walk in the Equinox Preservation area. Just a short drive from the inn and nestled at the base of Mount Equinox this preserve offers some wonderful wooded trails and overlooks with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. After a morning hike we return to the Batten Kill where our canoes await. After a picnic lunch we let the river set a leisurely pace and we quickly settle into the melodic and soothing pace of the river. The Batten Kill flows through a picturesque valley where quick water alternates with smooth stretches, giving us plenty of time for swimming, sunning and photography.

Our journey ends as it began at the Hill Farm Inn where we linger over our good-byes, not quite ready for the trip to end. We are relaxed and refreshed, having been inundated with crisp mountain air, beautiful wilderness scenery, and breathtaking views of the lay of the land.

Equinox Rambles Breakaway Itinerary
Where and when to go...and how to get there

Our home is right in the center of one of the finest valleys in all of Vermont. The Green and Taconic mountain ranges along with the BattenKill provide a spectacular background for our Rambles weekend adventure. Arlington, Vermont was first settled in 1763 and was home to Ethan and Ira Allen, of the Green Mountain Boys. Norman Rockwell lived here for many years, the area and people inspired many of his paintings.

The area in and around Arlington is referred to as the Valley of Vermont and offers us a wide variety of trails and hikes to enjoy. The Batten Kill, meaning fertilized stream in Dutch, is a wonderful playground and visual delight. It rises in the Green Mountains flowing south then turning west, through some of the most beautiful countryside, on its way to the Hudson River.

A Bit About Hill Farm Inn
 Innkeepers – Lodging: Hill Farm Inn, Innkeepers Al and Lisa Gray, phone 802.375.2269

Our rambles stay at the Hill Farm Inn. Located at the base of Mount Equinox, the inn offers gracious accommodations. The classic 1840 farmhouse has high ceilings and marble fireplaces. Several porches offer wonderful views of the Batten Kill river and the Green Mountains. Innkeepers Lisa and Craig will be on hand to welcome us and make us feel immediately at home. We'll soon sense the warm feeling of timeless relaxation.

You are welcome to arrive at the inn mid to late afternoon on Friday. The inn is located on Hill Farm road midway between Arlington and Manchester. From points south follow routes into Bennington. Once in Bennington take route 7 north to the Arlington exit. Follow the signs into Arlington and route 7A. Continue traveling north on 7A for about 5 miles. Turn right onto Hill Farm road, our shop is on the corner of Hill Farm Road and 7A and the inn is located about one mile down Hill Farm road on the right. From the north travel south on route 7 to Manchester. Just north of Manchester take route 7A south into the village and continue about another five miles. Turn left onto Hill Farm road, our shop is on the corner and continue about one mile to the inn. Welcome.

Day 1
Today we plan a full day of paddling on the Batten Kill. The river offers gentle current and many opportunities to swim and soak in the sun. We will enjoy the river as it passes through secluded woodlands and farmland.
As we journey down river the valley quietly reveals itself. We float past lonesome country lanes, quiet meadows and high mountainsides bathed in the sun. We will pass under several covered bridges, enjoy refreshing swimming holes and seek out isolated gravel bars for our riverside picnic.
After our day on the river we will return to the Hill Farm Inn. You can relax on one of the many porches, cool your feet in the Batten Kill or take a short walk to some near by shops including an antique shop, and quaint country store, before enjoying another evening meal.

Day 2
After a full breakfast we leave the Hill Farm Inn for a walk in the Equinox Preservation area. Just a short drive from the inn and nestled at the base of Mount Equinox this preserve offers some wonderful wooded trails and overlooks with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. Mount Equinox is the highest peak in southern Vermont at 3,825 feet, providing breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings. Dr. J.G. Davidson happened upon the mountain in the early 1900's and with great foresight decided to save this special place. He entrusted it to the Carthusian Monks who now live on and watch over this special place. Other hikes to choose from include hiking to the top of Mount Equinox, Prospect Rock or Styles Peak.

Or we may opt to regroup and do some more paddling on the Batten Kill. Rising in the Green Mountains near Manchester the river winds its way through Arlington and then turns west into New York, passing under four covered bridges before reaching the Hudson. The Batten Kill is a classic canoeing river providing spectacular views and quiet seclusion.

All too soon we are met by our shuttle van and return to the Hill Farm Inn for our final good-byes. This is truly a special part of Vermont and we won ’ t be surprised if you decide to linger awhile.

WHAT TO BRING

This list is intended to be skeletal, and we anticipate you will have your own ideas of what is "necessary." In general bring half the clothes you think you will need and twice the film.
Getting wet is always a possibility when participating in outdoor activities. Clothing has to keep you warm even when wet. Try to avoid cotton. The problem with cotton is that once it is wet it absorbs water and does not dry out quickly.

  • *Inns and B&B are casual so cotton or cotton mix clothing--for off river and evenings is appropriate.
    *Polypro or capilene undershirt and pants for Fall trips
    *Lightweight nylon pants (the type where the legs zip off into a pair of shorts are very handy)
    *Lightweight/medium weight long sleeve top.
    *Wool sweater or fleece top for Fall trips
    *Rain jacket and pants
    *Wide brimmed hat.
    *Sunglasses with security strap.
    *Sunscreen, insect repellent
    *Lip balm, chapstick
    *Water bottle
    *Personal toiletries
    *Personal medications
    *Bandana
    *Camera and film
    *Day use backpack
    Additional Clothes for Paddling
    *Shorts
    *T-shirts or comfortable paddling tops
    *Canoe shoes that can get wet for paddling such as sandals, or booties.
    Optional Gear
    *Binoculars
    *Pocketknife
    *Swimsuit
    *Field guides, bird books, and travel books
    *Journal notebook, pen, good book
    *Extra eye glasses, sunglasses, security straps

If you have any questions on what to bring or how to pack please give us a call at 1.800.421.5268

Trip Notes Supplement

General Information
If you have any questions or need special arrangements please call our office. Regular office hours are 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Friday in season. We are open Saturday and Sunday for day trip rentals, but our office staff is limited on weekends. We are generally closed Saturday through Tuesday November through April, although you may catch us in by chance other times.
Trip prices include lodging, all meals (except when noted) guide services and accompanying support van. Trips generally meet mid to late afternoon of the first day, and disband mid to late afternoon of the last day. We may be compelled to increase or decrease trip prices on trips due to matters beyond our control, such as currency exchange, airfare, taxes or price increases. Gratuities for BattenKill guides and other staff are appreciated, but are left entirely to your discretion.
Reservations and Confirmation
Often it is easier to call our office to check for availability and to make reservations. We request a deposit of $100.00 per person for the two to four day trips, $250.00 for five to six day trips, and $350.00 per person for longer trips. Immediate confirmation is possible using your credit card for the deposit.
On receipt of your deposit we will prepare a complete confirmation packet, including a full itinerary, person equipment list, meeting location with directions, and application for short-term trip cancellation insurance. Your confirmation letter will outline the balance which is due at the trip meeting for domestic trips, and 60 days prior for Canadian and other International trips. We strongly recommend that you obtain this cancellation insurance, which reimburses you for nonrefundable costs and deposits should you have to cancel your trip due to a personal emergency.
Cancellation and Refunds
Notification must be received by BATTENKILL CANOE LTD. (BCL) in writing. If you must cancel, but
wish to reschedule for another trip, we will do our best to accommodate you. If you must cancel more than 45 days prior to departure, a refund of 50% of the per person deposit, OR a 100% credit valid for another trip. There are no refunds possible with less than 45 days notice or for leaving a trip early or arriving late. Final Payments
Your balance is due when we meet on the first night of the trip and may be paid by cash, check or credit card (Visa, MC, AMEX or Discover). Please refer to your confirmation letter for the amount due.
Tips and Gratuities
Gratuities for the inn and food portion of your trip are paid by BCL. Gratuities for BATTENKILL guides are appreciated, but are left to your discretion. Each year the guide staff of BATTENKILL CANOE pledge to pool a portion of their tips and donate them to an outreach program. Over the past several years these outreach programs have included a scholarship program for a high school student in the remote village of Yorkin in Talamanca, Costa Rica, supporting the Ninos in la Calle program (alternative education program for the street kids) in Somotillo Nicaragua, financial and educational support to the BattenKill Watershed Council and an annual donation to the Vermont ACLU.
If you would like to find out more about these projects or have suggestions for other projects your guides would be happy to visit with you. This is just one of the ways we are able to reach out to the greater community and practice socially responsible travel.
Airline Reservations
Our airline desk is able to assist you in making our airline reservations, and we are pleased to do so. We can book with all the major carriers and would be happy to assist you with your travel plans.
Non-Performance
We almost always follow through with our entire trip schedule. However, we must reserve the right to cancel a trip or to make changes to the itinerary if necessary due to weather and/or water conditions, insufficient reservations or other factors outside of our control. Although it is unlikely, if we must cancel your trip, you may choose between: 1. A 100% refund of all monies paid, or 2. A 150% credit of your original deposit for a future trip with BATTENKILL. This constitutes full settlement, and BATTENKILL can not be held responsible for other costs incurred.
Guaranteed Dates & Tier Pricing
Since you plan your vacation around our trip, it is our responsibility to run every trip scheduled if four or more persons are on the roster. A number of fixed costs make it more expensive to operate a trip with six members than one with 12. We budget our trips with a nearly full sign?up, to enable us to price them at the lowest possible cost.
We will still run your trip if four or more guests are on the roster. However, we will be obliged to add a small trip surcharge if there is a low sign?up of between four (4) and seven (7) participants. The small trip surcharge is ten (10) percent of the published price.
If you make your reservations 6 months prior to departure, you will qualify for our Earlybird Discount which waives all small trip surcharges, and guarantees your departure regardless of the number of people on the roster.
Accommodations & Meals
Our standard accommodation is two per room, generally with a private bath. Usually singles and triples are available. BCL provides three meals per day, beginning with dinner on the first evening and ending with lunch on the last day (except where noted).
On our Voyageurs we provide top quality tents along with all other group camping gear. You are requested to bring only a sleeping bag and pad, as well as your personal gear. If you choose not to bring your own sleeping bag, you may rent one of ours which includes a cotton liner and foam pad.
Solo Travelers
If you're traveling alone and would like to assure yourself of a private room, there is a single supplement surcharge of $45.00 per evening. Singles willing to share will be matched with a roommate. If unavailable, a forced single supplement of 50 percent of the full supplement will be charged.
Children & Youth Rates
Children twelve years of age or older are welcome on all trips. Children aged 8?12 receive a discount of 50% when accompanied by two adults and sharing a room on Inn based trips. A discount of 25% is allowed for ages 13 ? 16. If accompanied by only 1 adult, or not sharing a room, a 20% discount applies for ages 8 ? 12, and 10% off for ages 13 ? 16.
Special arrangements must be made for all children ages 8 to 12, or when more than 1 child is accompanying 2 adults.
Guest Responsibility
You must understand that river trips involve some risk. Guests are responsible for: choosing a trip that suits their abilities, level of fitness and state of health; arriving at the trip start with the clothing and gear recommended in the confirmation packet; respecting the laws and customs of the countries visited; following environmental guidelines and regulations while on the trip in accordance with guides direction; and respecting the rights and privacy of other trip members. You will be asked to sign a Hold Harmless and Release of Liability form prior to your trip.
BATTENKILL CANOE reserves the right to substitute lodges, leaders and to alter the itinerary when deemed necessary or advisable. BCL shall not be liable, directly or indirectly for any delay, cancellation, mishap, inconvenience, expense, personal injury or death, or damage of property for any reason whatsoever, including acts of God. BATTENKILL reserves the right to decline to accept, retain, or ask to leave any person whose actions or deportment impede trip operation, or rights, welfare and enjoyment of other trip members. No refund is possible under these circumstances. Payment of deposit, and release of credit card number represents your acceptance of these terms and conditions. All disputes shall be settled by binding arbitration in Bennington County Vermont.
About BattenKill Trip Guides
We are proud of the folks who lead our trips, and help make an extra special adventure for you. Each recognizes, welcomes and encourages the varying skills and interests of each guest.
On the first evening of our get-together, we will conduct a simple orientation of the trip to come, and go over safety regulations. You will be asked to sign a liability of release form, and we will collect your final payment then.
A Word About Equipment
Canoe rental is included in your trip price. You are welcome to bring along your own canoe if you would like, just let us know. We furnish premium canoes, paddles and PFD's (life jackets). We feature canoes by Mad River, Dagger, Old Town and others. If you have a particular canoe you would like to demo, please give us a call and we will attempt to have one available.
What Happens if it Rains
It does rain, so rain gear is a must. So are dry clothes, which can be stored in the waterproof bag that we furnish. If it's raining hard, we don't all have to go canoeing. The nice thing about Vermont is that there are plenty of other things to do...visit museums or go antiquing...spend some time in a general store. Or, we can just have another cup of coffee and wait till the rain abates. Whatever makes sense, we'll do.
And So On...
Also, enclosed is our suggested personal equipment checklist. Little things like lip balm, sun blocks and dry socks make a big difference, so check it over carefully.


 

 

 

 

Contact Us
BattenKill Canoe, Ltd.
800.421.5268 or 802.362.2800 fax--802.362.0159
©2002 BattenKill Canoe, Ltd.. All rights reserved