Arts, Dining & Entertainment

Paddlers seek out loons and late-lunch with VINS

Courtesy of VINS

A loon floats serenely on glassy water. Paddlers will be looking for the elusive divers with VINS on Sunday.

Sunday, Aug. 30 at 3:30 p.m. — QUECHEE — The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) invites adventure-seeking adults, 21 and above, to join educators for a guided paddle on the serene waters of Grafton Pond in Grafton, N.H. on Sunday, Aug. 30, from 3:30 to 9 p.m. This event, presented in partnership with The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm, merges the best of both worlds — an intimate encounter with the nature of our waterways, followed by a three-course meal at one of the region’s most outstanding places to dine.

Led by VINS educators, participants will paddle along the shores of the quiet, scenic, secluded Grafton Pond from 4:30 to 6 p.m. While scouting the pond for the beautiful and elusive common loon, paddlers will discover the plant and animal life of the pond and also delve into the geology of the New Hampshire Lakes Region. Paddlers will then make their way inside for a delicious and relaxing three-course meal at The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm in Quechee.

Grafton Pond Wine and Dine is $50 for VINS members and $60 for non-members. Participants will meet at 3:30 p.m. at VINS Nature Center to drive to the pond together, or they may meet at Grafton Pond boat ramp at 4:30 p.m. Participants must provide their own canoe or kayak, paddles, PFD (personal flotation device) and boat transportation. All participants are required to wear personal flotation devices when on the water with VINS-sponsored activities. Please dress appropriately as the event will take place rain or shine, and bring a dry change of clothes. Participants must have pre-registered by Aug. 23 for this event. For more info, visit vinsweb.org or call 802-359-5001, ext. 245.

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