Stick season is the best time for Notch spelunking 🥾 The dramatic mountain pass Smugglers Notch seems to get all the love during foliage, but our favorite time to visit is during stick season. Being able to see the spectacular 360° views unobstructed through the trees is such a unique experience! ⭐️ How did Smugglers Notch get its peculiar name? It all started with Thomas Jefferson and his Embargo Act of 1807, which prevented American trade with Great Britain and Canada. Many Vermonters relied on goods imported from Montreal and were greatly affected by the embargo. The Notch became an essential part of the journey Vermonters took to illegally carry goods and herd livestock from Canada, and also a route for escaped slaves fleeing the US. 🍻 In 1922, the route was developed to allow for automobile traffic, providing an avenue for liquor to be smuggled in from Canada during Prohibition. Today, visitors can see many of the caves used to hide liquor right off this main road! This is one of the curviest and steepest mountain passes in Vermont, making for a truly exciting drive with tons of trails to explore. That also means that trucks and other wide vehicles tend to get stuck in between the boulders! Every year, Vermonters bet on how many truck drivers will ignore the signs and get stuck 🤣 ❄️ As of this morning’s surprise snow, Smuggler’s Notch Road is now officially closed for the season. But don’t let that stop you from visiting this amazing area! There are several places to park along the state forest that allow for snowshoeing and other winter recreation. What’s your favorite season to explore Smugglers Notch? #vermontforreal #vermont #vermontbyvermonters #vermontshots #vermontlife #vermonting #igvermont #ilovermont #travelvermont #vermontfall #stickseason #vermonthistory #hikevermont #longtrail #spelunking #caves