hogback mountain gift shop

Not only is this about the best lookout/stopping point on Rt 9 between Brattleboro VT and Bennington VT, there are several great points of interest for all types. Pull over carefully to the diagonal parking spots on the curve; there is the time-honored 100-mile view of 3 states (VT, NH, MA); I stop here as much as I can and we have been coming here for over 50 years. Sunsets - bluebird days. It is a great view of the Southern Vt area, esp. in the fall. If you want to hike - go a bit further west down the mountain to Molly Stark State Park - and then hike up to the former fire tower. Lots of new trails also. Shopping - eclectic little gift shop at the top (at the overlook)- with also, hands down, Vermont's BEST secret liquor weapon around: Metcalfe's "Vermont Maple Cream Liqueur." Ok, there is the usual cheese selection, maple syrup, postcards...but if you want a little taste of heaven (over 21s) - bring home at least TWO bottles of this because you will not be able to keep it in the house. Great over ice, or on coffee ice cream....yum. Made all in Vermont (except the special cream for the liqueur which is from Albany NY area).....you will NOT go wrong with a bottle of this as a take home memory of Vermont. They also have a delicious raspberry liqueur. PS there is a Catamount Vodka coming soon. Takes "gift shop" to a whole new level!! And for the kids, next door is the tiny Southern VT Natural History museum - the collection of Luman Nelson, a noted early 20th century taxidermist, the museum has one of the largest collections of mounted birds in New England; only open Mem Day through October. Gift shop free but museum has a nominal entry fee.