Independence

On a dreary day in Ticonderoga, we decided to explore Vermont's Mt. Independence. In between the rain storms we took the Ti ferry across Lake Champlain and headed up to the very interesting museum and its trails on a bluff that overlook the lake. The building itself was built to resemble a canal boat, complete with rudder and bowsprit. 

We watched a movie about the American Revolutionary War and how the Mt. Independence fort was built in 1776 & 1777, right across from NY's Fort Ticonderoga, to try and keep the British at bay. There was even a floating bridge made between the two forts. Unfortunately the British took over anyway and burned the fort and it's buildings. The coolest thing about the museum was a huge statue with four soldiers, two of which their faces came to life as they talked about the conditions the soldiers experienced.

With the weather deteriorating, we could only venture on two of the shortest trails. There was a lookout with views over to where the the La Chute River meets Lake Champlain, along with Mt. Defiance and Fort Ticonderoga. 

Another trail had a great southerly view of the lake.

Hopefully we will get to return in the fall to explore the longer trails through the woods while the leaves are in full colors.

Footnote: Mt. Independence was named by the soldiers when they heard that the Declaration of Independence had been signed.