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Things to Do in Green Mountains

Things to Do in Green Mountains

Green Mountains Vermont, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The Green Mountains are an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with things to do across all seasons.

Hiking & Trekking

Easy Trails

Robert Frost Interpretive Trail (1.2-mile loop with accessible boardwalk) and Smugglers' Notch State Park Nature Trail are gentle walks.

Moderate Hikes

Stowe Recreation Path (5.3 miles paved multi-use) and Sterling Pond Trail (2.3-mile loop with steady climb) offer rewarding views. Mount Philo has various trails leading to the summit.

Challenging Treks

Long Trail (272 miles), Mount Mansfield's Hell Brook Trail, and Camel's Hump provide demanding climbs. Sections of the Appalachian Trail also travel through the Green Mountain National Forest.

Water Sports & Cycling

  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Enjoy paddling on lakes like Lake Champlain, Lake Bomoseen, and Lake Willoughby; rentals are available.
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): This activity is popular on calmer waters.
  • Swimming: Swim in specified zones at state parks or explore local swimming holes like Bristol Falls or Warren Falls.
  • Fishing: Fly fishing for trout is popular; a Vermont fishing license is required for all fishing activities.

Mountain Biking

  • Extensive trail networks at ski resorts like Killington Bike Park and Stowe Mountain Resort.
  • Kingdom Trails in East Burke also has world-class riding.
  • A Large capacity backpack is useful for longer hikes.
  • A Sit-on-top kayak offers ease of use for fun paddling.

Adventure Sports

  • Ziplining/Aerial Treetop Adventures at Stowe and Bromley deliver thrilling experiences.
  • Rock Climbing opportunities exist in Smugglers' Notch (experience or certified guide needed).
  • Observe deer, moose, and black bears (from a safe distance) while hiking or driving.
  • No formal "safaris"; wildlife viewing is typically a self-led experience.

Cycling Routes

  • Road Cycling: Scenic routes on paved roads offer challenging rides, including passes through the mountains.
  • Rail Trails: Paved or crushed-stone trails for casual cycling (Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, Stowe Recreation Path).
  • Mountain Biking: Refer to "Adventure sports" for details on dedicated parks.
  • A Stand-up paddleboard is popular on calmer waters.

Safety Considerations

Always be prepared for weather changes and outdoor conditions. Check trail conditions before hiking. Secure food items when camping to avoid attracting wildlife. Respect private property and trail signage.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Vermont's the local culture through workshops, performances, and community experiences.

Workshops & Traditional Events

  • Workshops: Check local community centers for art, craft, music, or dance classes.
  • Brewery Classes: Some craft breweries present tasting classes.
  • Vermont Contra Dances: Traditional American folk dancing events often held in community halls.
  • Tours Of farms: Many local farms offer agritourism experiences.

Cultural Performances & Arts

Live Music Venues

Flynn Center for the Performing Arts (Burlington) hosts various acts. Pubs and small venues feature local music.

Theater & Productions

Weston Playhouse Theatre Company (Weston) has professional summer theater. Community theaters offer local productions.

Cultural Festivals

Vermont Maple Festival (St. Albans), Vermont Cheesemakers Festival (Shelburne Farms), and various Brewfest events throughout the year.

Vermont Renaissance Faire

An annual event in late June (Killington), offering a themed historical experience with performances and crafts.

State Fairs

Numerous county fairs and the Vermont State Fair (Rutland) in late summer celebrate agricultural heritage and community.

Town Festivals

Many small towns host seasonal festivals celebrating local traditions, arts, and crafts throughout the year.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the The Green mountains range' peaceful settings.

Spa & Retreats

  • Many luxury resorts and inns include full-service spas (The Inn at Spruce Peak, Woodstock Inn & Resort).
  • Day spas are available in larger towns for individual services.
  • A few dedicated yoga or meditation centers and retreats exist, often in pastoral environments.
  • The region's natural beauty itself provides a calming and restorative environment for personal well-being.

Water Recreation & Other Activities

Lakeside Relaxation

Designated swimming areas exist at Vermont State Parks (lakes, ponds).

Pool Access & Unique Features

Some resorts and hotels have pools available for guests. No natural hot springs exist in Vermont.

Traditional Healing Practices

Limited traditional healing practices are specific to the region. Wellness centers focus on contemporary spa treatments and holistic approaches.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Burlington's Scene

Burlington has a live music scene with venues like The Higher Ground and Nectar's.

Ski Town Apres-Ski

Taverns and bars at ski hotels often feature live music during peak winter ideal time for apres-ski.

Local Pubs

Smaller towns may host occasional live music groups or open mic nights at local pubs or community halls.

Shopping & Markets

Discover unique local products, artisanal crafts, and souvenirs throughout the Green Mountains.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Farmers' Markets: Abundant during the growing season (May-October) for fresh produce and crafts.
  • Country Stores: Historic general stores (Vermont Country Store, Dan & Whit's) for local goods and souvenirs.
  • Artisan Workshops: Numerous studios sell pottery, glass, woodcrafts, and adornments.
  • Glassblowing: Some studios present demonstrations and sales.

Shopping Districts & Souvenirs

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Manchester Center for designer outlets. Stowe for upscale boutiques. Woodstock for charming shops.

Maple Products

Pure Vermont the sap of the maple tree, maple candy, and maple cream are authentic souvenirs. Consider Runamok Organic Maple Syrup.

Local Delights

Vermont Cheddar Cheese, craft beer/spirits, plus artisan goods are popular gifts. Ben & Jerry's merchandise is available from the factory store.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local businesses, artisans, and growers directly.
  • Look for "Vermont Made" labels to guarantee your purchases benefit the local economy.
  • This habit promotes sustainability and local craftsmanship.

Shipping Information

  • Shipping within the U.S. Is straightforward.
  • For international shipping, be aware of customs regulations regarding food products (dairy, meat, fresh produce) and alcohol.
  • Maple syrup is generally permissible for international travel.
  • Check specific regulations for your home country before purchasing.

Activity Booking

  • For diverse activities and experiences, explore booking platforms like GetYourGuide.
  • This site allows you to plan your adventures and secure tickets in advance.
  • Booking ahead can save time and disappointment, especially during peak season.
  • Discover unique tours and led trips for a experience.

Late-Night Entertainment Options

Burlington Nightlife
  • Burlington has some nightclubs and dance-oriented bars.
  • Church Street Marketplace has a concentration of bars and restaurants.
  • This area creates a lively evening atmosphere.
Green Mountain Nightlife
  • Very few alternatives can be found in the Green Mountains proper outside of particular resort bars.
  • Most rural establishments nearby 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM.
  • Plan your evenings accordingly if you prefer later activities.

General Tips for Experiences

To maximize your experience, always check local calendars for events, confirm opening times, and consider booking popular activities in advance. Flexibility in your itinerary allows for spontaneous discoveries.

Activity Planning Summary

Planning Your Day

  • Review activity options based on your interests and fitness levels.
  • Check operating hours and seasonal availability for attractions.
  • Consider booking popular tours or tickets in advance, especially during peak times.
  • Pack appropriate gear for outdoor adventures and weather changes.

Local Insights

  • Engage with locals for recommendations on hidden gems or current events.
  • Explore local community calendars for unique cultural happenings.
  • Sample local cuisine beyond just restaurants by visiting farmers' markets.
  • Allow flexibility in your itinerary to discover spontaneous opportunities.