Begin the Carb-Load: Apple Hill

John and I took a trip up to Apple Hill yesterday, and unofficially began my carb-loading for CIM. Now, we didn't plan the trip for this purpose, but it worked out very well.

We started with an 11AM stop at Boeger Winery. Tasty wines created warm holiday cheer, and we even bought some to enjoy after our pre-race alcohol fast ends.

Next, we stopped at Abel's Apple Acres, a huge facility featuring fresh-baked apple treats (pie, turnovers, fritters, etc.), apple products (jams, sauces, butter, etc.), as well as crafty gift shopping and a barbeque stand for lunch. They had pony rides and games for the little ones as well. We started our day of sugar carb-loading with a fritter and a slice of strudel. Delicious!

Next, it was on to the highly-acclaimed Fudge Factory Farm, amidst the many attractions of High Hill: more apple and apple-product vendors, apple wine and beer, crafts, and even a fishing hole! We had some tasty fudge (double chocolate and mocha cappuchino), as well as an apple donut. Yum times two!


Our next stop was for lunch, and a cold brewed beverage at the Jack Russell Brewing Company. We shared a tri-tip sandwich, and each had a pint (IPA for me, Scottish Ale for John) and a 4 ounce sample (Blueberry Ale for me, Belgifornia for John). The Brewery has a nice outdoor seating area and a fresh kettle corn vendor (too bad we ran out of cash before I bought some).

We stopped by Denver Dan's to pet the Alpacas (yes, really), then made our last stop at Grandpa's Cellar for a slice of apple pie to share, and the obligatory purchase of apple-products.

I was so stuffed full of sweets that I had trouble eating dinner (well, almost), and had a bit of a rough time on the first few miles of our run this morning. But the trip was great! Apple Hill was beautiful, and the goods were tasty. I will be glad to go back next year!





My next carb-loading splurge may just be this:

Photo credit: IcingOnTheCupcake.com