WESTMINSTER — The rustic stone-and-wood cabin at the Pinnacle overlook - a favorite attraction on the 20-mile Pinnacle trail system that runs from Putney Mountain to Grafton - is getting a facelift.
After many years of providing a unique spot for overnights, family reunions, school excursions, and shelter from inclement weather, time and the elements have taken their toll. In a news release, the Windmill Hill Pinnacle Association says it's time to make some essential repairs.
Planned work includes rebuilding the west stone wall and two corner foundations, reframing and replacing all windows; welding steel patches into the fireplace insert; affixing a ladder to the east wall as a fire escape from the loft window; and removing and replacing the roof of the nearby outhouse.
With the promise of help from volunteers and initial support from some enthusiastic donors, the Pinacle Association has decided to proceed immediately with the necessary repairs by master builder Phil Pellerin, who has already replaced a makeshift log seat at the overlook with a long-lasting granite bench.
Pinnacle's approval is allowing Pellerin to take advantage of the season's dry weather while the Association seeks additional funds to meet its goal for the project.
The Association is asking anyone who has enjoyed the cabin or appreciates its existence to contribute to the Cabin Renovation Campaign and help Pinnacle complete the repairs this fall. The public is invited to contribute online at www.windmillhillpinnacle.org or to mail a check to the Association (noting Cabin Campaign in the memo section) at P.O. Box 584, Saxtons River, VT 05154.