Vermont's Finest, Fair Haven - Dendrology

Vermont's finest trees all within Grandma Spaulding's Walking Trail

Vermont's Finest, Fair Haven - Dendrology

Fair Haven, Vermont 05743, United States

Created By: Unity College

Tour Information

Vermont isn't all sugar maples! With over 50 species native to Vermont, this driving tour will point out some of the locals' favorites as well as species that are invasive in Vermont. This tour is spread out through Grandma Spaulding's walking trail in Fair Haven, Vermont. Be sure to knock on her door and let her know you're there first!

This location is home to numerous wildlife species, such as Barred Owls (Strix varia) and White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus). The property is over 30 acres, and home to numerous tree species that you can observe during your peaceful walk. As you walk the paths formed by the Spaulding family for bird watching and hunting, you will hear leaves blowing in the wind, the drilling of woodpeckers, and the calls of birds. Be sure to pack a pair of boots and wear long pants as some parts of the walk may take you through higher vegetation and mud. Remember to ALWAYS WEAR ORANGE if traveling through during a hunting season! Bring water and a few snacks as you may find yourself wanting to stay the whole afternoon exploring, but remember to leave no trace!

Enjoy your experience and the beautiful scenary this trail will bring.


Tour Map

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What You'll See on the Tour

This Gray Birch (Betula populifolia) is found before the entrance of the walking path, right next to the green pickup truck that has been parked there for 20 years.  When Grandpa Spaulding passed away, his truck was parked next to the gray... Read more
Virginia Creepers (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is a woody deciduous vine that can grow anywhere from 3 to 40 feet. It's only limiting factor is the structure on which is climbs. This particular species is growing on the side of Grandpa Spa... Read more
Eastern Hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) are immaculate species that can grow to be 100 feet tall. This tree is a must-see with its large size and feathery branches. Being one of my favorites on the property, this hemlock is located right before... Read more
The Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) marks the beginning of the trail. This tree is located across from a group of Flowering Dogwoods (Corus florida).  Unfortuantely, this species will not paint the exact picture of an Eastern White Pine... Read more
Flowering Dogwoods (Cornus florida) are a beautiful species of tree in both the spring and the fall, with stunning colors. Beautiful in both spring and fall, it is a must-see for this tour! There are clusters throughout the trail, especiall... Read more
American Beeches (Fagus grandifolia) may be the most common tree species within this trail. If you were to count the amount of times you come across an American Beech within the first acre of this property, I guarantee you would lose track.... Read more
This Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra) is located directly next to an American Beech (Fagus grandifolia). While you would not expect this species to be a Northern Red Oak, it is still growing. The expression "blink and you might miss it" def... Read more
This English Oak (Quercus robur) is located by an American Beech (Fagus grandifolia). Similar to most of the other species located at the beginning of the trail, it is not full grown yet. The leaves are present and easily distinguished from... Read more
Staghorn Sumacs (Rhus typhina) are a smaller tree that has absolutely stunning leaves in the fall time. It is a common tree to find in Vermont, especially along the highways. It's bright orange and red coloring pops throughout the drive. Al... Read more
This Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is surrounded by other massive Eastern Red Cedars and is located off the trail. While this tree is located off the trail, it is totally doable to hike down to and is amazing to see surrounded by... Read more
This Yellow Birch (Betula alleghaniensis) is located on the right hand side of the clearest path intersection. It is located in a group of Yellow Birches, which might be my favorite species of birch for their golden hue.  Yellow Birches g... Read more
Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea) are the symbol of Christmas and gives the Christmas spirit throughout the trail (which puts a HUGE smile on my face whenever I pass by them)! This Balsam Fir is across from a cluster of other Balsam Firs, but is ... Read more
This Striped Maple (Acer pensylvanicum) is surrounded by Paper Birches (Betula papyrifera) and Northern Red Oaks (Quercus rubra). Striped Maples are a beautiful, understory tree. This species of maple are 20-40 feet, but this is a tiny (an... Read more
This Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is located next to a Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra). Much like others along this side of the trail, it is not full grown. While Red Maples are can grow to be 120 feet tall, this tree has some growing to do. ... Read more
Norway Maples (Acer platanoides) are large trees that can exceed 90 feet. This particular tree is full grown, unlike some species on the path. Unlike other maples, this maple has dark green, opposite, 4-7 inch wide leaves with five lobes. W... Read more
After your walk around the trail, be sure to take a stroll around the property on your way to say goodbye to Grandma Spaulding!  Northern Catalpas (Catalpa speciosa) are highly adaptable species, grow rapidly, but are a short-lived species... Read more
Sugar maples (Acer saccharum) are impossible to miss on your adventure through Vermont. As the state tree, and adored by all citizens of Vermont for is wonderful sap, you have to visit this tree on your walk through the property. It is loca... Read more
This Eastern White Cedar (Tabebuia heterophylla) is full grown. The Eastern White Cedar can grow to be 40-50 feet with a spread of 8-20 feet and a trunk diameter of 3 feet.  This species grows best in slightly alkaline, loam, sandy, well-d... Read more
The White Walnut, also called Butternut, (Juglans cinerea) is a sweet and beloved tree located on the property and is popular with many birds during the fall.  This tree can grow to be 100 feet tall, but is most often 40-60 feet tall. It h... Read more
As you leave, be sure to check out this gorgeous Blue Spruce (Picea pungens) located by the Maplewood Inn! The Blue Spruce is my favorite evergreen due to its beautiful coloring. As you leave your walk, I hope you look at this spruce and a... Read more

 

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