Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church | Vanadzor

Information

Landmark: Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church
City: Vanadzor
Country: Armenia
Continent: Asia

Saint Gregory the Illuminator Church, Vanadzor, Armenia, Asia

Snake Mountain Trail is a hiking path located in Addison County, Vermont, leading to the summit of Snake Mountain.

Visual Characteristics

The trail ascends through deciduous forest, primarily composed of maple, birch, and oak trees. The path itself is unpaved, consisting of packed earth, exposed roots, and scattered rocks. The summit area features exposed bedrock and sparse vegetation, offering open views. The elevation gain is approximately 700 feet over a distance of 1.5 miles.

Location & Access Logistics

The trailhead is situated off Route 22A in Addison, Vermont. From Vergennes, proceed south on Route 22A for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto the unmarked gravel access road immediately after the Addison County Field Days sign. The parking area is located at the end of this gravel road, approximately 0.2 miles from Route 22A. There is no public transportation directly serving the trailhead.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Snake Mountain is a prominent ridge of the Champlain Valley, formed by geological uplift and erosion over millions of years. The trail follows a natural path through the forest, historically used by local inhabitants. The area is part of the Vermont Piedmont ecoregion.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking to the summit is the primary activity. The trail offers moderate difficulty. Observation points along the ascent provide views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The summit itself is a suitable location for picnicking. Birdwatching is possible during migratory seasons.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A small, unpaved parking area is available. There are no restrooms or designated picnic facilities at the trailhead or summit. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent along the trail and at the summit.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal trail conditions, visit between April and October. Autumn foliage offers significant visual interest from late September through mid-October. Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) provides good lighting for photography of the surrounding landscape. Avoid visiting during or immediately after heavy rainfall due to muddy conditions.

Facts & Legends

The mountain's name is attributed to its serpentine shape when viewed from a distance. Local folklore suggests that the mountain was once a resting place for a giant serpent. Geologically, the exposed rock formations at the summit are remnants of ancient sedimentary layers.