Cabin Mountain in the Fall

In the fall of 2005, we stayed at Alpha Vista on Cabin Mountain in Canaan Valley. The first three days were beautiful: sunny and mild temperatures. It was very windy but because of the sun it was not uncomfortable. We rode our bikes on Camp 70 Road, Forest Road 80, and some other roads in the area of our cabin. At the Refuge on Freeland we saw a first for the area: a Marsh Wren. Casey Rucker pointed it out to us and we had some excellent views. A Northern Harrier coursed over the grassy areas as we stood on the boardwalk. On the mountain, Ravens and Juncos were the busiest birds. We visited for dessert with Elliott and Margot Ours. I was able to help him copy a DVD that he had brought back from Luebeck, Germany. On the last day, the fog rolled in like potato soup. It was followed by rain. That night, Mike Flynn and Jane Kleber from Columbus stayed with us and we had a nice pasta dinner followed by a wonderful lightning show. It is always nice to be on Cabin Mountain with friends. Friday commented that he enjoyed his stay, also.

We stayed for the first time at Alpha Vista.	It was very homey. There were a number of levels to the decks--the lowest had a hot tub and sauna.	It is not far from No Mo Problems on Mountainside Road.
The fall colors were just about right.	We couldn't visit without going to Freeland Road.	The beavers have been active.
The Shrike was still hanging around. We met Casey Rucker and he pointed out a Marsh Wren--a first for the area.	Looking across the field from the Refuge boardwalk.	Forest Road 80 climbs the mountain at this point.
Early in the week, the mornings started with a little fog in the valley and then it cleared.	A view from the deck looking back to the ski area.	The ski slopes are apparent here. Mountain bikers are allowed to ride some of the slopes. Not us!
It was windy but the temperatures were very pleasant.	Early fog and haze would be blown out by mid-morning.	Sand Run Lake was crystal blue.
Just at sunset. That's Venus in the upper left.	The kitchen was easy to work in.	On the last day, the fog and rain came in. But it was still pleasant to sit at the table.
We had a fire each day.	Their satellite TV was the easiest we have had.	Friday enjoyed his stay.
We brought the bikes in each night so the bears would not ride off on them.