Another writer competing in the Champlain Area Trails Travel Writing Contest is Peter Jerdo. This young man recounts his homecoming to Westport, NY from college, and the very day of his return he goes hiking on the one of the abundant wilderness trails in the area.

His story “Coming Home” describes how he explores a trail in the Split Rock Mountain Wild Forest and keeps an eye out for wildlife while admiring the beautiful scenery. He remarks upon his mother’s fear of black bears, which are seldom seen, while he would is more worried about the rattlesnakes on the mountain that are just awakening from their hibernation.

Jerdo ends his story by mentioning how relaxing and enjoyable the peaceful experience of his hike was and how he hopes to always remain in the Champlain Valley. I share the latter sentiment. I have been hiking once in my memory. I’ve never wanted to go by myself, and I haven’t had time or interested friends that wanted to go with me, but I do hope that in the future I get a chance to explore many of the wonderful trails throughout the Adirondacks.

Below is an except from Jerdo’s story. Remember to read all of the other stories in the contest and don’t forget to vote for your favorite to win a $250 prize!

“We could start to see breaks in between the trees, so I knew we were nearing the end of the trail. I kept my dog close to me, as I did not want him to scare off any of the birds that may be around the overlook. I was hoping to see a bald eagle, as I had seen several this past summer while kayaking just South of Barn Rock Bay. Finally getting to the overlook is immensely rewarding.  You must walk across this small section of narrow, winding trail and then suddenly a panoramic view is thrust upon you. The overlook gives the viewer both the New York and Vermont sides of Lake Champlain and is atop a very steep rock face.  As I peered over the edge of the over 70-foot high cliff, my hands began to sweat. I could not imagine jumping off into the lake as some of my thrill-seeking peers have. The height of the overlook notwithstanding, it is a perfect place for a picnic, just be careful. With beautiful views like this, it is easy to understand why so many people would choose to visit the Champlain Valley and surrounding Essex County…” [Continue reading “Coming Home.”]

Related articles

• Split Rock (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)
• $80k Awarded Locally (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)
• Vote in CATS Travel Writing Contest (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)
• Snakes at Split Rock (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)
• Timber Rattlesnake: Fact, Fiction & Mystery (www.essexonlakechamplain.com)