The Naturalist’s Cabin
Gale’s Retreat is a cabin built by the founder of the Birds of Vermont Museum, Bob Spear. He built it for Gale Lawrence, naturalist and teacher, as a writing retreat. This cabin’s location, just off the Birds of Vermont Museum’s trail network, is ideal for hiking, bird watching, snow shoeing, trail running, nature journaling, and quiet reflection. The cabin is located within a deciduous/coniferous forest with a stream nearby.
This cabin can be rented for an overnight or two through the Vermont Huts program. Visit their website to book a stay.
Opportunities to meet others abound, and if visiting in the summer, retreat guests may choose to join one of the Museum’s guided bird walks or other events.
Special cabin features:
- Free admission to the Birds of Vermont Museum for booked guests
- Step ladder to loft (mattress pads for up to four guests located in loft; bring sleeping bags or sheets, pillows)
- Day bed/couch (for additional seating and napping)
- Kitchen with pots/pans/utensils/etc. (No running water, use snowmelt or rain barrel for water or pack in your own. Always treat your water.)
- Sliding glass doors open to the deck with seating and a view of Camel’s Hump (foliage permitting)
- 2-burner cooktop for preparing meals (bring your own food)
- Wood stove for heat during cold months (seasoned wood provided). You should know how to operate a wood stove!
- Small table and four chairs for eating meals, playing games, etc.
- Newly built moldering privy for hut guests
- This cabin is off-grid: no electricity, very limited cell service
- Please bring battery-operated light sources; two solar lanterns are provided