![](https://www.natureupnorth.org/sites/default/files/styles/square_encounter_large/public/profile_photos/emlyn_crocker.jpg?itok=XRFdfvNm)
North Country explorer from Plainfield, Vermont
I often walk my dog on the Kip Trail, and when we went out onto the lookout platform today I was impressed by the vibrant color of the sky and stillness of the water below. There is a great blue heron that likes to hang out in the reeds on the far left side of the pond, and, sure enough - one lifted off and as we approached the bird blind. It's hard to be quiet when you bring the dog along!
![](https://www.natureupnorth.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_carousel_landscape/public/Beaver%20Pond.jpg?itok=MOlwZeDf)
![](https://www.natureupnorth.org/sites/default/files/styles/image_carousel_landscape/public/36587391_10156600742583993_7283329815988404224_n.jpg?itok=yhyWjsuA)
The birdblind slates built into the lookout platform makes a great barrier to hide behind - sometimes.
![](https://www.natureupnorth.org/sites/default/files/styles/square_encounter_thumbnail/public/Beaver%20Pond.jpg?itok=3meTo2FD)
![](https://www.natureupnorth.org/sites/default/files/styles/square_encounter_thumbnail/public/36587391_10156600742583993_7283329815988404224_n.jpg?itok=3ysKWu_T)