Its nickname, The Green Mountain State, is very apt, reflecting the endless forests and mountain lands. The state does not have many tall buildings, with only 2 having more than 10 floors and none above 170 feet.
It’s the perfect destination for when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, helping you to clear your lungs of metropolitan fumes, and your mind of work stress.
If you’re planning a trip to Vermont to escape the rat race for a little while, here’s some ideas.
Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is one of the most popular nature spots in the state. It has 587 miles of shoreline, so it still won’t feel crowded. It is a natural freshwater lake that straddles the borders of both Vermont and New York, so you don’t even need to venture far if you’re coming from the latter state.
Some come just to admire the natural beauty, while those who like to be a bit more active can kayak, canoe, sail and fish on the waters. There are also more than 300 species of bird around the lake, making it a great spot for bird watchers.
Hildene
Hildene mansion on the former estate of Robert Todd Lincoln in Manchester, Vermont. Rolf Müller / CC BY-SA
Hildene is a country estate built by Robert Todd Lincoln, the son of Abraham Lincoln. The building is a time capsule, showing how the former president’s family lived, with much of the original furniture.
Green Mountains
Visit Cold Hollow Cider for famous cider donuts and apple cider in Waterbury, in Vermont’s Green Mountains. Photo by Jen.
You can’t visit the Green Mountain State without heading to the Green Mountains. There are many options for visiting, from day trips to camping out in the wilderness. Tour companies offer packages that cater to every budget and every desire, including romantic weekend getaways to ski resorts for the winter months.
The visitor centre in Waterbury is located in a restored train station, and serves some of the best coffee in the state. The building was constructed in the 19th century and has elements of architecture common in Victorian England and Italy.
While you’re here, keep an eye out for older buildings. You will notice that they’ve got windows installed at a slanted angle, this was due to an old superstition that it would stop witches from flying through the window since their broomsticks wouldn’t fit.
Rock of Ages Granite Quarry
Inside the Rock of Ages Granite quarry operation in Graniteville, Vermont. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) from USA / Public domain.
At 600 feet, the Rock of Ages Granite Quarry is the largest deep-hole granite quarry in the world. You can get a tour of the quarry that combines breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and also the state of the art machinery used in its operation.
Guests can keep a piece of granite from the cast offs, before knocking down some pins on the outdoor granite bowling lane.
Moss Glen
Moss Glen Falls, Stowe, VT — Photo by Mark Castiglia
At 125 feet in height, Moss Glen Waterfall is one of the tallest in Vermont. It’s multi-tiered structure creates a beautiful white mist and a calming sound that will leave you speechless.
Moss Glen Falls Trail is 4.2 miles (6.8 km) long with hiking sections suitable for all skill levels. The feature of course, is the falls, which are only 1/4 of a mile from the trail head. While designated as easy, the final climb to the best view of the falls is fairly steep.
In the summer months, locals and tourists alike jump into the water at the bottom of the falls to cool off. However, be warned that the water is cold even at the height of summer. In the winter, the water can freeze, even on the falls itself, which creates a unique sight.
The nearby town is also worth visiting, with some quaint galleries, shops and restaurants.
Greenbanks Hollow
Greenbanks Hollow Covered Bridge (about 1886) takes Greenbanks Hollow Road across Joes Brook in southern Danville, Vermont. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. JERRYE & ROY KLOTZ MD / CC BY-SA
The whole village was built by Benjamin Greenbank, and included a woolen mill, saw mill, grist mill, store, houses, and post office. Most of the village was destroyed by fire in 1885, and Greenbank decided to move his operations to New Hampshire.
Today, nature has taken over and little is left. The old covered bridge is the remaining structure that is still intact having been restored by the Danville Historical Society. It’s a nice reminder of the power of mother nature.
Whatever you decide to do in Vermont, you’ll be sure to return feeling refreshed and relaxed. Whether you spend your trip admiring the views from the side of Lake Champlain, or climbing up the Green Mountains, you’ll love the contrast with city life.
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