Stowe, Vermont: April 2024
This trip checked off a major bucket list item: witnessing a solar eclipse. Matt and I had planned this months in advance, knowing that everyone and their mother would also be trying to see it. To make it even more special, we decided to take Amtrak (another bucket list item) so we could experience a long train ride as well.
We went to bed so excited for the journey, only to wake up to bad news. Less than 24 hours before departure, our train was canceled. Just like that, our plans were thrown out the window. But we weren’t going to let that stop us from seeing the eclipse. At the last minute, we decided to drive to Vermont instead. Not nearly as fun, but it is what it is.
At least the scenery made up for it. I always love an opportunity to drive through New England, and since it was my first time visiting Vermont, I was happy to soak it all in. The state is absolutely gorgeous with rolling hills, cute little towns, and classic red barns dotting the land.
We stayed in an old youth ski lodge known for its massive circular fireplace which felt like we stepping back in it’s heyday of in the 1970s. We made friends with our neighbors: a couple from New Hampshire, and together, we staked out a prime viewing spot on the lawn. We arrived early, set up our chairs, and settled in for the big moment.
Instead of photographing the eclipse itself, I decided to capture our reactions. To be honest, I’m still reeling from the experience. The creepy shadows, the sudden drop in temperature, the way everything became dark and surreal at totality. It was unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed before. I’m so glad I finally got to experience it.
The next opportunity is in 2026 in Spain. I might just have to go see it again!
