Estimated Mileage: 1.2 miles Estimated Time: 20 minutes
Mount Philo, in Charlotte VT, has open western views of the Adirondacks and the Lake Champlain valley making it ideal for sunsets and late afternoon fall lounging. It is a great place for a picnic, bird watching or a leisurely ride.
The 1.2 mile road to the summit is not Pikes Peak. It is narrow and twisty -- first gear only affair -- with good pavement from top to bottom. The bottom half mile has two-way traffic, while the narrower top is one direction only.
A heavy touring bike with a trailer will have challenges on the tighter turns, but most other bikes will have no problem, as long as you maintain the 15 mph speed limit. If you have floorboards, be careful of your ground clearance: shift your weight to the inside and stand the bike up as much as possible.
Entrance to the park is $3 for a day. There are ten campsites, including three with lean-to's. The park rents out quickly, so make sure to reserve a spot by calling 1-888-409-7579, Monday to Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
