Photos: Late winter Highland County landscapes

It was the calm before the storm today as we enjoyed a quiet day in Highland County. We made a few stops along the way, talking with folks who were preparing for the second weekend of the annual Maple Festival and the thousands of visitors who will answer the call to travel to this remote western part of Virginia. As we drove back roads, it was obvious the sap -- better known as sugar water -- was running. Numerous sugar maple trees were tapped with pails attached, part of the ancient ritual of making pure maple syrup and all that goes with it.

A look at Monterey from Rt. 250 where it crosses Jack Mountain.

Six miles north of Monterey on Rt. 220 is Virginia Trout Company owned by Bryan Plemmons who also owns the hatchery at Goshen. Fishing on the premises or buy filets already frozen or smoked and ready to go. More about Virginia Trout Company in Faces of Farmers.

 The trout ponds were full today when we stopped at the Virginia Trout Company.

Jackson River

The 2014 Maple Festival continues Saturday and Sunday at locations throughout Highland County.

 Looking over Monterey.

 Those who came before us....

 Icy creek after a cold week in Highland that saw snow Wednesday night and Thursday.

Other posts and photos from the Highland Maple Festival:
- 2014 Maple Festival ... Laurel Fork Sapsuckers at the roof of Highland County
- 2014 Highland Maple Festival begins this weekend 
- 2014 Highland Maple Festival ... lunch at Evelyn's Pantry in Monterey
- 2014 Highland Maple Festival ... Back Creek Farms pure maple syrup
- 2013 Maple Festival at Duff's Sugar House - first weekend
- 2013 Maple Festival at Duff's - second weekend
- 2012 Highland Maple Festival
- 2011 Maple Festival at Duff's Sugar House
- 2011 Maple Festival - Walk of Honor to thank U.S. veterans
- 2011 - 53rd annual Maple Festival
- 2008 Highland Maple Festival ... almost heaven 

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
Highland County, Virginia
March 14, 2014