vermont travel guide by mail

Northeast Kingdom

Welcome to visit vermont, fall in the green mountains: harvest bounty & fiery colors.

Vermont is a place, but also a state of mind that revels in outdoor beauty, good food, and the preservation of unique small towns and cities. Visitors love Vermont for its colorful fall foliage; ski resorts including Killington, Smugglers' Notch, Ascutney, Stowe , and Mount Snow ; mountain vistas; and attractions for families and kids. Although Vermont is an inland state, there are wonderful beaches along Lake Champlain , along with many lakes, streams, and swimming holes.

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Vermont regions and highlights :, central vermont.

In the center of this region is Green Mountain National Forest , which welcomes nature lovers all year. Major ski areas here include Killington, Okemo, Sugarbush, and Middlebury. Families can enjoy the outdoors and get hands-on with nature at Billings Farm & Museum and the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Woodstock, VT , the New England Maple Museum in Rutland, VT . The state capitol of Montpelier, VT is fun and full of activity. The Vermont Country Store in Weston, VT is treasure house of nostalgic shopping.

Northeast Kingdom Region

The term Northeast Kingdom was a distinction first mentioned by former Governor George Aiken in the late 1940s to refer to the natural majestic beauty of the area, which follows the northern reaches of the Connecticut River alongside New Hampshire from St. Johnsbury, VT to the Canadian border, then east to the eastern edge of the Green Mountains at Jay Peak . Much of the area is pristine wilderness - great forests and hilly plains that provide the perfect setting for camping or hunting, dotted with glacial lakes including Lake Memphremagog , which stretches from the city of Newport, VT deep into Quebec, Canada.

Northern Vermont

In the state's northwestern corner you can find the dynamic city of Burlington, VT , right on the shore of lush Lake Champlain and a great place to be for good food, entertainment, a lake excursion or public festival . The nearby state capitol Montpelier, VT is the smallest, and one of the prettiest, in the entire country. (Please give them your support to help recover from the recent catastrophic flooding!) The ski areas here are among the most recognized names in the world for winter sports - Stowe and Smugglers' Notch, VT . Families and kids have plenty to do in the area, from a visit to the cows at the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury, VT to a journey into history or science at the Shelburne Museum in Shelburne, VT .

Southern Vermont

A short drive from New York and Boston, Southern Vermont has a great mix of year-round outdoor activities , historic sites , outlet shopping, beautiful village greens, fall foliage, and covered bridges . The area's large ski areas at Stratton, Peru, West Dover and Londonderry, VT offer great family fun in summer as well as winter. Principal towns are Brattleboro, VT - artsy and bohemian; Bennington, VT - home of Norman Rockwell; and Manchester, VT - a historic resort town with great shopping.

Great Things To Do in Vermont

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Smugglers' notch resort.

America’s family resort guarantees family fun.

4323 Rte. 108 S. Smugglers' Notch, VT

Vermont Brewers Association

54 Bridge St. Richmond, VT

Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club

A family owned and operated resort nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain.

4800 Basin Harbor Rd. Vergennes, VT

The Woodstocker B&B

Providing guests with a warm, indulgent and relaxed experience

61 River St. Woodstock, VT

Norwich Inn

On Main Street since 1797.

325 Main St. Norwich, VT

University of Vermont Morgan Horse Farm

A stunning Victorian-era barn.

74 Battell Dr. Weybridge, VT

The Vermont Flannel Company - Burlington

find the "Feel of Vermont™" at this cozy flannel store.

28 Church St. Burlington, VT

Saint Anne's Shrine

A religious and historical attraction located on Lake Champlain

92 St. Anne's Rd. Isle La Motte, VT

Tipsy Trout - Fins & Fermentables

The region’s premium seafood with an unmistakably Vermont culinary approach

7416 Mountain Rd. Stowe, VT

Bolton Valley

Independent ski resort and bike park.

4302 Bolton Valley Access Rd. Richmond, VT

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Welcome to Vermont Explored!

Vermont Explored is dedicated to providing Vermont travel advice for the adventurous soul! You can drive just about anywhere in Vermont in under four hours, from the bustling streets of Burlington to the rolling hills of Southern Vermont.

Come explore miles of back roads, enchanting towns and villages, quirky attractions, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in America. We’d love to share this special place with you!

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Whether you’re a die-hard adventurer, a foodie traveler, or a meandering road tripper, you’ll find no shortage of amazing things to do in Vermont. Each page highlights a must-visit attraction or Vermont experience that you won’t want to miss.

Hey, fellow Vermont lover! My name is Tara, and my goal is to help you discover every corner of this beautiful state by providing practical tips and destination ideas for your next adventure. On these pages, you’ll find ideas for weekend getaways, day trips, easy outdoor adventures, and lots more!

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With its white churches and red barns, covered bridges and clapboard houses, snowy woods and maple syrup, VERMONT comes closer than any other New England state to fulfilling the quintessential image of small-town Yankee America. Much of the state is smothered by verdant, mountainous forests; indeed, the name Vermont supposedly comes from the French vert mont, or green mountain.

The Long Trail

This was the last area of New England to be settled, early in the eighteenth century. The leader of the New Hampshire settlers, the now-legendary Ethan Allen, formed his Green Mountain Boys in 1770, and during the Revolutionary War, this all-but-autonomous force helped to win the decisive Battle of Bennington. In 1777, Vermont declared itself an independent republic, with the first constitution in the world explicitly forbidding slavery and granting universal (male) suffrage; in 1791 it became the first state admitted to the Union after the original thirteen colonies. A more recent example of Vermont’s progressive attitude occurred in 2000, when former governor Howard Dean signed the civil union bill into law, making the state the first in the USA to sanction marital rights for same-sex couples. Today, Vermont remains liberal when it comes to politics: the state continually attracts a mix of hippies, environmentalists and professionals escaping the rat race, most of them aspiring to an eco-friendly philosophy best epitomized by Ben & Jerry’s additive-free, locally produced ice cream.

With the occasional exception, such as the extraordinary assortment of Americana at the Shelburne Museum near Burlington (a lively city worth visiting in any case), there are few specific sights. Tourism here is more activity-oriented, and though the state’s rural charms can be enjoyed year-round, most visitors come during two well-defined seasons: to see the spectacular autumn foliage in the first two weeks of October, and to ski in the depths of winter, when resorts such as Killington and Stowe spring to life.

Lakeside BURLINGTON, Vermont’s largest city, with a population near forty thousand, is one of the most enjoyable destinations in New England. Renowned for its liveability and green development, it’s home to a hip, eclectic community that fuses urbanism with rural Vermont values. The city faces 150-mile-long Lake Champlain, which forms the natural boundary between Vermont and New York State. Burlington’s founders included Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen and his family; Ethan’s brother Ira founded the University of Vermont. Home to five colleges and universities, the area has blossomed as a youthful and outward-looking college town. Its downtown is easily strolled by foot, notably around the Church Street Marketplace.

Running along the ridge of Vermont’s Green Mountains, 272 miles from the Massachusetts border to Québec, the Long Trail is one of America’s premier hiking routes. Those planning on hiking its entire length should count on it taking between 25 and 30 days. The most conventional way of accomplishing this feat is to hike from shelter to shelter, maintained during summer and usually no more than a gentle day’s hike apart. A moderate fee is charged at sites with caretakers (usually $5), and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis; if the shelter itself is full, you’ll have to camp, so unless you plan to arrive early you’ll need to carry a tent. All shelters are on the primitive side (no electricity or running water). Contact the Green Mountain Club (802 244 7037, greenmountainclub.org) for more information.

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Your Trip to Vermont: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
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• Best Small Towns
• Things to Do in Rutland
• Things to Do in Burlington
• Things to Do in Montpelier
• Things to Do in Woodstock
• Things to Do in Vermont
• Scenic Road Trips
• Where to See Fall Foliage
• Best Ski Resorts
• Food to Try
• Best Breweries

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Vermont is agricultural yet edgy, modern and progressive yet still a bit backwoods. Its natural beauty is undisputed, and these contradictions only add to the state's allure. You'll marvel at the sophistication of restaurants and museums and also at how solitary you might feel while hiking a trail or paddling a pristine pond. More people live in the city of Boston than the entire state of Vermont, so when you want to get away in the purest sense of the idea, the Green Mountain State is your place to detach. 

This guide will help you plan a Vermont vacation, from inspiration right through the last longing glance in your rearview mirror as you return to "real" life. As you dream of your journey, play Trevor Hall's "Green Mountain State" on YouTube or your favorite music app, and you'll begin to feel the pulse of a destination that truly does "speak through ten thousand leaves."

 Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Vermont is best known as a winter sports destination, and winter lingers for nearly half the year. Go in late March or April, and you can ski snowy slopes and witness the making of maple syrup at sugarhouses statewide. Spring, summer, and autumn all have unique charms, too, and Vermonters will tell you their fall foliage is tops in New England—and perhaps even the world.
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. Dollar
• Getting Around: Amtrak's Vermonter train makes nine Vermont stops in cities like Brattleboro, Montpelier, and Burlington and near the resort town of Stowe en route to St. Albans near the Canadian border (see current service adjustments). Green Mountain Transit operates buses in the most populated regions and tourist destinations. But you'll need a car if you want to drive Vermont's backroads and visit its small towns and rural expanses, as most visitors do. Rental cars are readily available at Burlington International Airport and in other hub locations.
• Travel Tip: Don't expect your cell phone to work everywhere in Vermont. Depending on your carrier, you may run into dead spots even in popular getaway spots. Remote areas can be even trickier. You may want to print driving directions instead of relying on your phone's GPS, and, particularly in the winter, you should stock your car with emergency gear and supplies. The State of Vermont Department of Public Service provides an interactive map of cell coverage by carrier you may want to check before your visit.

Things to Do

Each season, Vermont offers new thrills for outdoor adventurers. This is New England's skiing and snowboarding capital in the wintertime, attracting millions of skiers and riders each year—Vermont claims 30 percent of skier days in the winter, despite its population paling in comparison to its fellow New England states . And, after the thaw, the state is a top spot for fly fishing. The state's rugged terrain beckons to mountain bikers and ATVers in the summer and fall, and its lakes and rivers challenge paddlers. The only natural feature Vermont lacks is an ocean coast, but there are sandy beaches on Lake Champlain when you long to swim and sunbathe and even the Champlain Islands —a half-hour drive from Burlington—to explore. If you'd prefer to elevate your heart rate by exercising your credit card at local shops, you'll find plenty of opportunities to do that, too.

• There is so much "Made in Vermont" pride, you'll want to load up on fine-quality goods, from wood furnishings handcrafted at ClearLake Furniture in Ludlow to Vermont Flannel 's perfect lounge pants, available along with other cozy creations at five store locations . For one-stop shopping, visit the Vermont Country Store in either Weston or Rockingham.
• Don't miss the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Woodstock. The history of environmental conservation is the focus at Vermont's only national park, which is home to splendid walking trails, gardens, and an art-filled mansion. Billings Farm and Museum , across the street, is also a must.
• Near Middlebury, the UVM Morgan Horse Farm sustains the breed that is Vermont's official state mammal.
• There are more than 100 covered bridges in Vermont: You can see five on this Bennington-area drive.

Explore more Vermont highlights with our guides to the best ski resorts in Vermont , 10 top hikes in Vermont , the best things to do in Burlington , and things to do in Vermont during the summer .

What to Eat and Drink

Vermont produces almost half the maple syrup in the country , and once you taste the real thing, you may never go back to the fake stuff. Maple-flavored everything is sold at sugarhouses and gift shops, and each year, Vermonters seem to find ways to take maple in new, uncharted directions. Maple water , maple seltzer , maple vodka , Maple to Go , Sparkle Syrup —the possibilities are sweet, delicious, and endless.

Cheddar cheese, too, is a Vermont specialty, and cheeseheads will love sampling the array of flavors produced by leading producers, from big names like Cabot and Grafton Village Cheese to artisan makers like Blue Ledge Farm : Try their maple chevre. You can also visit historic cheese factories in Vermont including America's oldest: Crowley Cheese in Mount Holly.

If you find driving miles of rural roads to be kind of a snooze, you'll wake up—or at least your tastebuds will—when you begin sampling the cuisine that's made Vermont a leader in the farm-to-table movement. Eating farm-fresh, local fare is a way of life here, and many Vermont visitors find themselves shopping and eating differently at home after their stay.

In 2021, Maine robbed Vermont of its long-held title of state with the most breweries per capita . Still, if you're a beer lover, you're going to find liquid enticement wherever you roam in Vermont, and you'll want to try famous brews like The Alchemist's Heady Topper, Hill Farmstead's Edward, and Foley Brothers' Maple Brown (made with real Vermont maple syrup, of course).

Explore our articles on nine foods to try in Vermont, the best breweries in Vermont , the best farm-to-plate restaurants in Vermont , and Stowe's top 10 restaurants .

Where to Stay

Vermont accommodations range from rustic campgrounds to two of New England's best spa resorts: Topnotch Resort and Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa , both in Stowe. There are a multitude of historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts to consider, too, including the Waybury Inn in East Middlebury, which famously "played the part" of the Stratford Inn on Bob Newhart's TV show, "Newhart," which aired from 1982 to 1990.

Among these classic properties, dog-friendly options like Basin Harbor and The Wilburton abound. If your dog is the family decision-maker, though, you may wind up at the Paw House Inn in West Rutland, where pups are not just welcomed: You'll actually pay a surcharge if you don't bring a dog. Vacation rentals are another popular option, and you may score a deal on a ski-area condo in the summer or fall. Keep in mind that having a kitchen available is a great way to save money on meals out, and you'll love shopping at farms and farmers' markets and cooking Vermont's harvest.

Explore the best destination spas in Vermont , the top Burlington hotels , Vermont's best ski hotels , and the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall .

Getting There

Driving a car to Vermont offers maximum flexibility, but you do have other options. The Amtrak Vermonter train typically departs daily from Washington, D.C. (see current service adjustments), and it picks up Vermont-bound passengers from stations in Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York City, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. The train travels 13 hours and 45 minutes along its entire route from D.C. to St. Albans in northern Vermont.

Two major bus lines, Greyhound and megabus , also connect Vermont stops with stations in the Northeast and beyond. Air travelers have the option of flying one of five major airlines to Burlington International Airport (BTV), located 4 miles east of downtown Burlington. Pick up a rental car on arrival, or take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to your destination. Many Vermont vacationers also fly into New York's Albany International Airport , Boston's Logan Airport , or New Hampshire's Manchester-Boston Regional Airport .

Culture and Customs

Vermonters are hardworking, no-nonsense folks for the most part, and they're generally accepting of all. Customs tend to reflect the seasons and the state's agrarian way of life. Pond skimming events at ski areas are a comical rite of spring. Maple sugaring season is accompanied by a host of events, and the fall fruit and vegetable harvest is celebrated with gusto. You may be surprised by how rich the arts scene is in Vermont. Music, in particular, is part of the fabric of everyday culture, and Burlington is a hub of live performances, from folk and jazz to rock.

Money-Saving Tips

• If you can visit in May or September—while kids are in school and ski areas are quiet—you'll dodge crowds, save on lodging, and enjoy pleasantly mild weather.
• Choose a Vermont state park for overnight camping or even just a day of recreation, and you'll find the fees to be a remarkable value. A season pass can save you even more if you're a frequent parks visitor.
• If you're driving to Vermont, don't be afraid to overpack. You'll be thankful for the extra layers when a storm blows through or a summer day turns chilly after sundown, and you won't have to spend vacation dollars on a flannel shirt or moose-emblazoned sweatshirt.
• Heading for the slopes? You'll generally save money if you buy your lift tickets in advance. Also consider checking out some of Vermont's lesser known ski areas like the Middlebury Snow Bowl and Magic Mountain if you want to ski on the cheap .

Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing. "2017 Benchmark Report: Tourism in Vermont." December 2018

UVM Food Feed: Sustainable Food Systems & The University of Vermont. "A Sweet Deal: Why Maple Syrup is Big Business." March 15, 2018

Bangor Daily News. " Maine Now Has the Most Breweries Per Capita of any US State ." April 5, 2021

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National forest and wandering waterways come together in Vermont's Green Mountains, a village-dotted region of note for the skiing, paddling, hiking and fly fishing on offer.

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Our Vacation and Travel Guide provides complete information on all the major tourist destinations in Vermont, including all major cities, National Parks, State Parks, Recreation Areas, and more.

Please use the interactive map below to start exploring travel destinations in Vermont. Scroll down for a list of Vermont destinations, or open up a complete list of all Vermont destinations in a Movable Pop-up Box .

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Vermont Travel Guide

Tourists are particularly drawn to the mountain regions of Vermont especially those who love to ski. Burlington has excellent shopping facilities, the Discovery Museum for children and the Ethan Allen Homestead. Shelburne is another must see while in Vermont, a reconstruction of an old village with all its buildings and services.

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Vermont Vacation Guide for Outdoor Lovers

Vermont is blessed with four distinct seasons (five if you count mud season), and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventure, no matter what time of year you visit. We live here, and we’re totally biased, but we think that everyone should plan a Vermont vacation, and we’re happy to help.

Below you’ll find posts about our favorite things to do in Vermont, as well as our favorite Vermont hiking trails, state parks, and camping. Of course, this Vermont travel guide wouldn’t be complete without information about fall foliage in Vermont, road trip ideas, and some of our favorite Vermont towns and cities.

Here’s the lowdown on visiting Vermont, with links to our favorite blog posts to help you plan the perfect Vermont vacation.

FAQs about Visiting Vermont

When is the Best time to Visit Vermont?

How soon can you get here? Each season in Vermont is uniquely beautiful, with lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Summer and fall are great for all types of hiking and water-based activities, and the ski season generally starts in December and lasts through March. Snow is pretty much guaranteed in the higher elevations, but coverage is spotty in the southern valleys.

Late August is my favorite time to explore Vermont. The weather is just the way I like it – warm and sunny, but rarely hot. The lakes are still warm enough to swim in, but the nights are cool and perfect for campfires.

Does Vermont have a Major Airport?

If you are traveling anywhere in northern or central Vermont – Burlington, Stowe, Rutland, or the Northeast Kingdom, you will want to fly into Burlington International Airport, which offers direct flights to and from Chicago, Atlanta, Detroit, New York, Orlando, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Toronto, and Washington DC.

Bennington, Manchester, and the southwest corner of Vermont are closer to Albany International Airport in New York, and Brattleboro is closest to Bradley International Airport in Connecticut.

When is Peak Fall Foliage in Vermont?

It changes from year to year, but in general peak season runs from late September to the middle of October.

If you are visiting the mountains, which run north to south through the middle of Vermont, I suggest visiting in late September or early October, especially if you are traveling to the Northeast Kingdom of Stowe.

If you are visiting southern Vermont, the Lake Champlain Valley, or the Connecticut River Valley for Vermont foliage, I would suggest coming during the first or second week of October. Variations on the peak fall foliage season will depend on temperatures and rainfall.

What is the Weather like in Vermont?

There’s a saying that goes – “If you don’t like the weather in Vermont, wait five minutes.” The temperatures can change pretty dramatically, even over the course of the day, but overall here’s what you’re going to get :

What is the Best Way to Get Around in Vermont?

With the exception of Burlington, Vermont is very rural and public transportation is spotty. If you are planning on spending most of your time in Burlington, you won’t need a car and get just about anywhere using Green Mountain Transit, the city bus. Otherwise, I’d suggest bringing a car or renting one at the airport.

All Vermont, All the Time! Check out our sister site, Vermont Explored, which focuses entirely on all the cool things to do in Vermont! If you click on some of the links below, you will automatically be redirected to relevant articles on Vermont Explored.

If you want an overview of the entire state, be sure to read our mega guide with 95+ of the best things to do in Vermont in every season!

Fall Foliage is Incredible in Vermont!

Three-quarters of Vermont is covered by forests – vibrant maples, stately oaks, and colorful ash, birch, and larch. Fall foliage season in Vermont is world-famous for good reason! Come explore the beautiful back roads, mountain valleys, and antiquated New England Villages.

The trees start changing colors in late September and are in full fall-foliage splendor by early October. If you’ve never visited Vermont in the fall before, we recommend checking out our post about our favorite things to see and do in Vermont during the Autumn Season.

If you’re looking for a particular region of Vermont to visit during fall foliage, we’d recommend checking out the Northeast Kingdom and Stowe in the northern mountains during early October or Southern Vermont in mid-October. If you’re into taking photos, we can recommend some beautiful spots for fall photography in Southern Vermont.

And, if you don’t mind pitching a tent during the fall camping season, you have to check out Grout Pond, where you can score a waterfront campsite for $16 and have front-row seats to the most amazing colors you could ever imagine.

Where to Stay in Vermont during Fall Foliage?

When it comes to cool lodging opportunities in Vermont, there are a gazillion choices, but there are a few properties that stand out as fall superstars. The following hotels and B&Bs knock it out of the park with their beautiful settings, friendly service, and well-appointed rooms. Just make sure you make reservations well in advance of the fall foliage season (like six months).

• Four Chimneys Inn, Bennington: Located in Old Bennington, Four Chimneys Inn is an elegant bed and breakfast on 11 acres. The inn is surrounded by mature trees and gardens but is within walking distance of the historical attractions of Old Bennington, including the Old First Church, The Bennington Museum, and the Bennington Battle Monument.
• Kimpton Taconic Hotel, Manchester: Located among stately homes in the historic part of town, the Kimpton Taconic is a boutique hotel with luxurious rooms and five-star service. It’s within walking distance of several restaurants and shopping districts, and its 100% dog-friendly.
• Woodstock Inn & Resort, Woodstock: Woodstock is probably one of the cutest villages in all of Vermont, and the Woodstock Inn is one of the most elegant and historic inns, with a large fireplace in the lobby, a spa, and a unique menu. When visiting Woodstock, be sure to stock up on cheese and pet the cows at Sugarbush Farm.

Camping, Glamping, and Vacation Rentals in Vermont

Ready to pitch your tent or park your RV in some of the nation’s most beautiful spots? Camping in Vermont is special, whether you’re tenting on the Long Trail, vacationing in one of our beautiful state parks, or staying in a rustic cabin on a Vermont farm. I’ve been camping in Vermont since before I could walk, and I’d love to share some of my favorite Vermont campgrounds with you. The following list includes from of our favorite camping opportunities in Vermont. If you aren’t into roughing it, we’re including a few Vermont glamping ideas as well.

• Beautiful Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals in Vermont
• The Best Treehouse Glamping in Vermont
• Glamping in Vermont: Stay in a Yurt in Bristol
• Why Farm Camping in Vermont Should be Your Next Adventure
• Fall Camping in Vermont: Grout Pond
• Family Camping at Little River State Park
• Winter Glamping in Vermont: Stay in a Geodesic Dome in Putney
• The Perfect Vermont Treehouse Rental for a Glamping Adventure

Vermont Hiking

Love to hike? Vermont has some great trails, from easy strolls to waterfalls and around lakes, to awesome summits with wide-open views and jaunts on the nation’s oldest long-distance trail. No matter what your hiking style, there is a trail in Vermont with your name on it. We are always exploring new hiking trails in Vermont, and have compiled some of our favorite day hikes in the following posts:

• Southern Vermont hiking Guide
• Northern Vermont hiking guide
• Where to Hike in Killington, Vermont If You want to try backpacking on Vermont’s Long Trail, check out our interview with Shirley Harman, who tackled the 275-mile Vermont hiking trail with her two dogs.

We’ve got more information on some great Vermont hikes in our Vermont State Park section below.

Awesome Vermont Towns and Cities

Vermont is proud of every single one of its 251 towns and cities, and we’ve even got a special club for folks who visit them all. Even though I’ve lived in Vermont my whole life, I still have more than a hundred Vermont towns to explore. For now, we’ve got a few guides to our favorite Vermont towns and cities:

• Plan a Road Trip on Route 7 in Vermont
• Spend a Fall Weekend in Woodstock and Quechee, Vermont
• 7 Family-Friendly Things to do in Burlington, Vermont this Summer
• The Complete Guide to Exploring Wilmington, Vermont
• 7 Beautiful Places to Visit in Bennington, Vermont
• The Ultimate Vermont Road Trip Itinerary on Route 100

Vermont State Parks to Visit

There are currently 59 state parks in Vermont, each with its own unique ecosystems, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. I worked as a photography intern for Vermont State Parks in 2016 and 2017, and so far, I’ve visited more than 30 of the 59 parks. I am partial to the southern Vermont State Parks because they are closer to home, but I’ve also spent lots of time at the Lake Champlain state parks and Groton State Forest. They are all great destinations for family-friendly recreation, whether you enjoy paddling, swimming, hiking, camping, or relaxing in a cabin with amazing views. Here are the Vermont State Parks we’ve visited and written about so far.

• Fall Camping in Brighton State Park, Vermont
• 7 Memorable Things to do at Jamaica State Park in Vermont
• Rambling Around Vermont: Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park
• Exploring the Lake Champlain Islands with Vermont State Parks
• Vermont’s Mighty Monadnock: Exploring Mt. Ascutney State Park
• Why Little River State Park is the Best Vermont State Park for Families
• Four Seasons at Lake Shaftsbury State Park
• Canoeing the Connecticut River from Wilgus State Park
• Summer at Emerald Lake State Park
• A Secret Vermont Treasure: Groton State Forest
• State Parks Near Burlington, Vermont: A Weekend on Lake Champlain

Do you have questions about visiting Vermont? Want to share your favorite Vermont vacation idea? Send us an email – [email protected]

Burlington Airport Taxi

Wednesday 31st of January 2024

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Matador Original Series

Editors' picks, one state, six trips: dreamy vermont itineraries for different types of travelers.

Choose one or do them all.

The Most Idyllic Vermont Bed and Breakfasts for a Fall Getaway

Treat yourself to a cozy getaway.

I Had No Idea Vermont Was This Diverse. Here’s Where to Play, Eat, Stay, and Shop for a Multicultural Visit.

Let the Green Mountain State surprise you.

For the Best Fall Food in the US, Make Your Way to Vermont

Maple syrup, ice wine, and artisanal cheese galore.

8 Experiences You Probably Had No Idea Were Possible in Vermont

Sip and savor your memories for weeks to come.

How to Vacation in Vermont as a Black Traveler

Calling all travelers of color.

4 Seasons of Vermont: A Year-Round Travel Guide to the Green Mountain State

Here's how to take in Vermont across the year, in all its glorious colors.

5 Culinary Experiences You Can Only Have in Vermont

Experience Vermont’s agricultural bounty firsthand.

Featured Film

Sharing the stoke: why we love vermont’s indie ski resorts.

This ski season, do yourself a favor: Check out indie ski resorts in small town Vermont. Magic Mountain, Saskadena Six, Bolton Valley. These are some of the oldest ski hills in America, and where skiing and snowboarding has kept its soul.

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Ep 4: pack the kids: vermont, vermont: the long trail home.

Vermont is as perfect as it gets.

This Vermont Airbnb Comes With Its Own Private Golf Course

Inside this secluded vermont glampsite, the gilded age awaits, what to expect at hotel vermont, burlington's hippest place to stay, 9 great killington airbnbs for your adventure weekend in vermont, staying at these 5 activity filled resorts is like going to an adult summer camp, 5 scenic backroads to explore in vermont this summer, the best fall foliage trips to take by bus in the northeast, a romantic fall road trip through the cutest covered bridges in new england, these 6 us road trips are some of the most beautiful you can take this fall, the most scenic fall road trips in new england, a sustainable travel guide to vermont’s legendary green scene, vermont trails: 10 lesser-known routes for hiking, biking, and exploring the green mountain state, the 5 best rivers in vermont for fly fishing, vermont adventure guide: hiking, biking, paddling, and more, 4 incredible swimming holes in vermont you need to check out, the 9 best state parks in vermont, ski and snow, 6 reasons to ski vermont this winter, 6 ways to enjoy winter in vermont — beyond the slopes.

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Vermont Inspiration Guide

Inspiration for your next adventure.

Exploring Vermont’s breathtaking natural beauty reveals a way of life defined by unhurried rhythms, open-minded culture, and a dynamic spirit. Rooted in distinct geographic features and time-honored traditions, Vermont is a place where a slower pace cultivates curiosity, offering the opportunity to indulge in moments of reflection, renewal, and rebalancing calm. Explore this year’s inspiration guide to plan your next vacation.

Green Mountains Through and Through

5 Green Vermont Getaways

Through sustainability initiatives like sourcing energy from wind and sun and more efficient snowmaking practices, Vermont’s resorts are on the forefront of sustainable tourism. Here are five places to visit that value going green.

Travel Green in Vermont

Sustainability isn’t a buzzword in Vermont; it’s a way of life. From eco-friendly lodging and dining options to how to Leave No Trace while you’re here, discover trips curated for eco-minded visitors.

3 Getaways for the Eco-Traveler

Southern Vermont is a bedrock of hotels, inns, and farmstays that center sustainability through practices like alternative energy and regenerative agriculture. These three getaways are ideal for eco-minded travelers.

5 Pillars of Leave No Trace

Vermont’s natural beauty is actively maintained through Leave No Trace principles. Here are five ways to hike responsibly in the Green Mountain State.

The Ultimate Northern Vermont Getaway

With its focus on sustainability and outdoor exploration, Craftsbury Outdoor Center is a paradise for adventure seekers. Here’s four reasons to plan your vacation there.

Mark Your Calendar

Vermont Signature Events

The statewide events calendar is stacked with summer concert series, inspirational art exhibitions, winter carnivals, fairs, festivals, and more. Discover a whoopie pie baking festival, a gathering celebrating garlic, a summer party for dogs and their people, and more this year in Vermont.

Three Days Across Vermont

Immerse yourself in Vermont’s historic downtowns, bountiful outdoor recreation, and expansive culture. These itineraries take travelers along New England’s longest rail trail, along the bucolic Otter Creek, and into the heart of southern Vermont.

72 Hours Along The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail

New England’s longest rail trail stitches 18 communities together, stretching 93 miles from St. Johnsbury to Swanton. This four-season path beckons walkers, cyclists, horseback riders, snowmobilers, and those who use wheelchairs to explore northern Vermont. 

72 Hours in Vermont’s Deerfield Valley

Spend three days exploring unique shops, a burgeoning art scene, vibrant farm-to-table dining, and a plethora of year-round outdoor activities, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of mountains in Vermont’s Deerfield Valley.

72 Hours Along the Otter Creek

Among expansive farm fields and rippling rivers, discover historic downtowns Middlebury and Vergennes, steeped in literary and agricultural history and on the shores of Lake Champlain. Here’s how to spend 72 hours along the Otter Creek.

Love Vermont? Call It Home.

Love Where You Live

Vermont’s mountainous landscapes, lakeside views, and vibrant downtowns offer the best of both worlds, where you don’t have to choose between career opportunities and easy access to the great outdoors. Izzy Johnson is thriving in Vermont, building a community for people of color in the outdoors and finding her niche within the state’s tight-knit community.

Find Your Vermont

Vermont is a place where a slower pace cultivates curiosity, offering the opportunity to indulge in moments of reflection, renewal, and rebalancing calm. Explore this year’s free inspiration guide to plan your next Vermont vacation.