Imagine Your Next Snowbird Adventure Snowbirds escape winter by migrating southward from their summer homes. RV Lifestyle Story and photos by Rex Vogel Over the past year-and-a-half, most of us have spent more time at home than we ever thought we would. As restrictions ease and the time comes to travel, there are adventures to be had and memories to be captured. Look at snowbird travel with fresh eyes and renewed appreciation. At the time of writing in late July, the federal government recently announced that, starting on August 9, 2021, Canada plans to begin allowing entry to American citizens and permanent residents who are currently residing in the United States and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entering Canada for non-essential travel. Several days later, it was announced that the U.S. land border would remain closed to Canadians for non-essential travel until at least August 21, 2021. Anticipating that the U.S. government would follow Canada’s lead, this announcement was received with disappointment by Canadian snowbirds who drive their Canadian vehicle to a U.S. Sunbelt location. Though the land border closure has been renewed multiple times since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, we remain optimistic that the U.S. land border will be open by the fall. Hopefully, by the time this issue reaches you, we will have a clearer understanding of when the land border will open for Canadian snowbirds and other southbound travellers. I look forward to the moment when we can travel south once again and take in the beauty of the canyons, deserts, mountains, lakes and autumn colours. With an increased urgency and sense of wonder, I’m looking forward to our next snowbird adventure. Snowbird travel can be more than going from point A to point B. It’s a chance to gain inspiration, connect with a corner of the world different from our own and make lasting memories. Here are suggestions for new areas to explore en route to your snowbird destination. Let’s hit the road! Stowe, Vermont This classic New England village is known for skiing, but it’s also one of the best places in the U.S to see stunning fall foliage. From early September through late October, the weather and colourful backdrop are perfect for such outdoor activities as hiking, mountain biking, fishing and scenic drives. Zig and zag your way to the summit ridge of Mount Mansfield − Vermont’s highest mountain − along the historic Toll Road, where stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains await you. The road up Mount Mansfield is 7.2 km of awe-inspiring natural beauty. You can park at 1,173 metres, relax and take it all in. RVs are not permitted on the toll road. Or get on top of autumn splendour the easy way − in the refurbished Stowe Gondola SkyRide. From the top of Mt. Mansfield, you can access hiking trails and a sweet treat at The Waffle. The Gondola SkyRide is open through October 17. 32 | www.snowbirds.org
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