Hike Sketch Journal

Ashuwillticook Trail, July 2026

Morning light on the Hoosic

Walked the rail trail early. Collected small ochre samples near the old trestle. Watercolor notes: Payne's gray for the shadowed rail ties, raw sienna washes for the riverbank. The limestone dust from the quarry still clings to my boots.

Evening return

Brew notes tied to pigment

Back home, the light on the studio wall reminded me of the trail's layered banks. Mixed a small batch of local hop ale with the same mineral patience as a limewash coat. Tomorrow the sketches dry; the varnish on the mill door waits.