So Much to Love at Equinox Pond
July 30, 2014
Dave, Phoebe and I spent four days in Manchester last week for a little summer getaway. One of the highlights of our trip was hiking up to Equinox Pond. It’s no secret that I really love that place.
This summer was the first time Dave and I have been back to Equinox Pond with Phoebe since she was eight weeks old. Nearly three years ago in September 2011, I carried her around the pond as she slept in a brand new Baby Bijorn. These days she’s an active, spirited little girl who loves to explore.
When we visited the pond last week, she ran around the shoreline in her bare feet, and for a moment I thought she might jump in the water and splash around in her clothes. How could I blame her? She was in her glory and seemed to love Equinox Pond as much as I do.
Equinox Pond and Beyond
Located near the base of Mount Equinox in Manchester, Equinox Pond and the surrounding land are part of the Equinox Preservation Trust, which was established in 1996 and includes more than 914 acres of protected land.
There’s an extensive trail system near the pond for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Swimming, kayaking, camping, campfires, and boating are not permitted at the pond. Catch and release fishing is reserved upon request for Equinox Resort guests only.
The best part of Equinox Pond? A perfect view of Mount Equinox to enjoy with the people who matter most.
**If You Go: Equinox Preservation Trust
Parking is available in a designated lot off West Union Street in Manchester Village, just south of Burr and Burton Academy.
Scott
Posted at 09:55h, 01 AugustLove it! I’m planning on a visit there myself with my little girl – hopefully in the next couple of weeks. It’ll be her first Vermont trip, and I think spending some time @ Equinox Pond will be great! (she’s almost 3 1/2)
I’m hoping I can find some more things in the area that she’ll enjoy too. I was thinking Hapgood Pond as well for a little swimming in the area – maybe the art center? We’re definitely going to take the auto-road up the mountain – she’s going to love that!
Thanks for the post!
Erica
Posted at 21:42h, 01 AugustHi Scott,
That sounds great. Equinox Pond is wonderful, and Hapgood Pond is great for swimming. We took Phoebe to Orvis and she loved feeding the fish in the outdoor pond (bring quarters to buy food). The Art Center has some nice trails and sculptures outdoors, so that could be a good stop – but I’m not sure about what they have indoors currently. Another place to take your daughter is the Northshire Bookstore, where they have a great kids section and play area on the top floor. Also, the playground and/or pool at the Dana Thompson Memorial Park (Manchester Rec Center) off Route 30 is a fun place to visit. Have a great trip! – Erica
Scott
Posted at 12:52h, 04 AugustThanks for the suggestions! Orvis has some sweeeeeeet restrooms too (you find the good ones over the years when travelling) , but the fish feeding is a great idea. I’ll check out the park too! Thanks so much for the tips!
Erica
Posted at 21:04h, 04 AugustScott – Absolutely! Have fun!
Pingback:5 Easy Vermont Hikes to Explore this Fall
Posted at 08:01h, 07 October[…] Beyond the pond, 11 miles of trails that mostly follow old logging roads are open for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. (See related post: So Much to Love at Equinox Pond.) […]