The Most Gorgeous Places in Vermont: A Tour to the Beauty of Nature:
Vermont is the smallest state in the United States. Yet, it represents the greatest part of New England’s natural beauty. With rolling hills, shimmering lakes, charming towns, and towering mountains in an eclectic landscape, there is never a wrong time to visit. From vibrant foliage in the fall to lush meadows and snowy peaks in the winter, the state is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most beautiful places in Vermont, showcasing the unique landscapes and experiences that make the state so enchanting.
1. Stowe: The Alps of the East in VERMONT:
Stowe is arguably one of Vermont’s most iconic destinations, often referred to as the “Alps of the East.” Nestled in the Green Mountains, the town is famous for its picturesque scenery, quaint downtown, and world-class ski resort.
Stowe Mountain Resort is a popular destination for winter sports lovers, featuring some of the finest skiing and snowboarding in the country. But even when there is no snow on the ground, Stowe is stunning. Trail lovers can hike Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest mountain, with panoramic views of surrounding mountains and valleys. The Stowe Recreation Path offers a serene 5.3-mile walk or bike ride through woods, fields, and along the West Branch of the Little River.
Stowe also presents many sweet attractions, including Trapp Family Lodge, founded by the famous Von Trapp family, of “Sound of Music” fame. The property features beautiful walking trails, cross-country skiing in winter, and outstanding views over the surrounding countryside.
2. Lake Champlain: A Gem in the Northeast :
Located in a transcontinental route that separates the states of Vermont from New York, Lake Champlain is definitely one of the most beautiful lakes that stretch for about 120 miles. Equipped with picture-perfect shores, rich green hills, and small towns, it is one perfect destination for people seeking refuge or adventure activities through water.
Burlington is Vermont’s largest city, situated along the lake, providing a beautiful waterfront with walking paths, parks, and an active arts scene. The city’s pedestrian-only area, Church Street Marketplace, is home to local shops, restaurants, and cafes offering views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance.
South Hero and Grand Isle are but two of the many islands in the lake. The Lake Champlain Ferry is a great way to connect those islands to the mainland for wonderful rides by bike or car around them. A short distance from them is Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, which offers wildlife viewing and hiking.
3. Green Mountains: A Year-Round Paradise :
Vermont is characterized by the Green Mountains dominating its central landscape, providing a mix of outdoor experiences for all seasons. The mountain range extends from north to south through the state, with ample natural beauty for hiking, skiing, and climbing.
One of the most beautiful places to appreciate the scenery of the Green Mountains is Smugglers’ Notch State Park, between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and towering cliffs line its trails, which exist for all types of hikers. For a challenge, take the challenging Long Trail running along the length of the state and experience some of Vermont’s most spectacular mountain scenery.
The Green Mountains become a wonderland during the winter months. Many ski resorts, including Killington and Okemo, provide some of the best skiing in the Northeast. The mountain range attracts thrill seekers but also is a retreat for those who enjoy peace and quiet beauty of the land.
4. Middlebury: A Quiet College Town with Scenic Surroundingsin VERMONT:
Middlebury is a pretty quaint little town between the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks, offering Vermont’s most spectacular views. This is essentially the quintessential college town yet still maintains an atmosphere friendly to any outdoor enthusiast, culture vulture, or history buff.
This town offers easy access to the State’s longest river, the Otter Creek, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The Bread Loaf Wilderness Area, accessible by short drive from Middlebury, offers trails that lead through wildflower meadows, pristine forests, and past historic farmsteads.
Just outside of town is one of Vermont’s most rewarding views: an incredible panorama of the Green Mountains to Lake Champlain and on over to the Adirondacks, on the Mount Abraham trail.
5. The Northeast Kingdom: The Hidden Treasure in VERMONT:
Northeast Kingdom of NEK is an isolated and much more pristine region in the very northeasterly tip corner of Vermont. It boasts charm in rural areas, beautiful lakes, and rustic beauty. NEK forms one of Vermont’s most unseen secrets. The places represent some of the very picturesque landscapes New England boasts.
The region surrounding Lake Willoughby forms one of the prominent features of the Northeast Kingdom; here, water is crystal clear and towering cliffs seem like fjords in Norway. Along the hike trails seen around the lake, Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor are accessible and provide an unbelievable look of the surroundings.
Besides, Burke Mountain offers abundant recreational outdoor activities that include skiing, mountain biking, and hiking that can be done throughout the year. Quiet towns such as Craftsbury and Greensboro are perfect for strolling around quaint shops, local farms, and beautiful views.
6. Quechee Gorge: Vermont’s Grand Canyon in VERMONT:
Quechee Gorge is sometimes called “Vermont’s Grand Canyon.” It is within the town of Quechee, Vermont, and carved out by the Ottauquechee River, it stands 165 feet deep. It has quite a dramatic landscape with jagged cliffs and waterfalls.
The Quechee Gorge State Park is equipped with several viewing platforms and trails that make it possible to view the view. The beautiful waterfalls also abound in this gorge, which includes a very beautiful sight in Quechee Falls when viewed on spring time due to the overflowing of water during its peak months.
Apart from the natural beauty of the village of Quechee, the day spent shopping in quaint little shops, antique stores, and restaurants will make it one of the best days spent in this lovely place.
7. Montpelier: Charm with Capital VERMONT:
It is the smallest state capital in the United States, but Montpelier has that certain charm to it that comes with small-town vibrancy. The city borders the Winooski River and has hills and forests all around, making the place peaceful and lovely.
Cary Hill is a popular hiking spot in Montpelier, providing panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The Vermont State House is an architectural gem with its gold-domed roof, a beautiful focal point in the city, and nearby Hope Cemetery has some unique and artistic gravestones made by local stone carvers.
As the city hosts cultural events, farmers’ markets, and festivals all through the year, this is the place for those in search of both natural beauty and cultural experiences.
8. Shelburne: Scenic Town on Lake Champlain VERMONT:
Shelburne is a beautiful town resting on the shores of Lake Champlain, just south of Burlington. It is famous for historic homes and landscapes of the country and near natural attractions so Shelburne is a place that gives a peaceful and idyllic atmosphere.
