If views are what you are looking for then you need to take a drive to the top of the summit of Mount Equinox Skyline Drive in Arlington, VT.  Construction of the Skyline Drive began in 1941 but was suspended because of the war and was not finished until 1947. The road to the top is the longest privately owned paved toll road in the US at 5.2 miles long with a vertical gain of 3,248 ft. to the top.  It is also the highest peak in the Taconic Mountain Range.

Your adventure will begin at the Toll House on Rte 7A.  You will start off at an elevation of 800 ft.  As you wind and twist your way up the mountain you will be treated to panoramic views of lakes, rivers and communities below.  There are several vistas and picnic areas along the way providing you with spectacular view but most outstanding is ride on Skyline Drive as you make your way along the crest of the mountain on the way to the summit.

Once at the top you will be be able to see the Green Mountains, the Valley of Vermont and the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the east.  As you look west you will be able to see the Adirondack Mountains of New York and finally to your south you will see the Taconic and Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. Also at the top is the Saint Bruno Scenic Viewing Center with a large amount of his about Equinox Mountain. There are also several hiking trails on the summit  There is so much natural beauty that the drive to the top is an experience within itself but the view from the top is something that you will soon not forget.

The Toll Road is open from the end of May through October 31 and the hours of operation are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. This would be the perfect time of year to plan a trip up the mountain as fall foliage is officially underway.

After you come off the mountain take a short drive into Manchester and grab a bite to eat at one of the area restaurants.

Coming up for the weekend and looking for a place to stay.  Visit the Vermont.com lodging page.