Did you know woodchucks can climb trees?

This one was spied scurrying up a tree along the Catskill Scenic Trail between Stamford and Hobart. John Burroughs knew a thing or two about woodchucks, and named his summer retreat after the rodent that abounded there when in 1910 he started spending summers at the 1860s Roxbury house his brother Curtis built. Never been to Woodchuck Lodge? Make this the year you come for a free tour. Opening weekend is May 7-8. Tours are offered from 11 to 3 Saturday and Sunday, first weekend of each month through October. Reservations are not needed.