Vermont is located in northeastern New England. Perhaps most famous for its fall colors, skiing and maple syrup, Vermont has something to offer you in all four seasons. But there is much more to Vermont than its biggest attractions. The state gets its name from its Green Mountains, the range that traverse its length. It is also home to some of the finest hiking in the country, and do not miss its agricultural produce and cheddar cheese. You can find some of the country's finest restaurants in Vermont, many of which pride themselves on farm-fresh produce. While states like Oregon and Colorado get all the press for beer, Vermont also boasts a healthy microbrewery population.
Burlington is the cultural epicenter of the state. This northeastern city sits on the banks of Lake Champlain and is home to the University of Vermont, which swells the city's population during the fall and winter, adding to its already dynamic nightlife and arts scene. Though Burlington is a good base before heading out to Vermont's ski towns, you can see and do plenty within its limits. You can catch a concert at the Flynn Center, take a ride on one of Lake Champlain's ferries, shop or stroll down Church Street's pedestrian mall or visit the birthplace of Ethan Allen. You could spend a week in Burlington and not run out of things to do.
The Long Trail is a hiking trail that runs the entire length of Vermont. The Green Mountain Club built the Long Trail between 1910 and 1930, making it the oldest long-distance trail in the country. You can begin the trail, which runs 272 miles, near the Massachusetts border and hike it to the Canadian border. It meets up with the Appalachian Trail for about 100 miles in southern Vermont. The Long Trail also climbs over such major Vermont mountains as Mount Mansfield, Jay Peak and Stratton Mountain.
Quechee Gorge is a mile-long gorge located in central Vermont. Known as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon," the gorge is one of the most impressive in all of New England. You can view it from a bridge on VT 4, which spans 165 feet over the gorge. You will get a good view of the Ottauquechee River from here. To see more, follow the South Trail, which will lead to a series of little waterfalls. A large manmade waterfall sits at the top of the gorge, but it is neither impressive nor powerful.
For those who enjoy skiing, Vermont offers some of the best mountains in the northeast. Killington offers more than 45 miles and a 1,700-foot vertical drop over five different mountains. Stowe is home to many fine restaurants and hotels, as well as skiing opportunities. For those looking to get away from the glitz and tourism centers, Jay Peak offers 76 trails in one of the more remote areas of the state.
The Bread and Puppet Museum houses some of the world's largest puppets. Located in Glover, Vermont, this political troupe has been active since the 1960s. The name comes from the troupe's tradition of sharing bread, served with garlic spread, with its audience during performances. The troupe is active during many of Vermont's parades and festivals, specifically the 4th of July parade in Cabot, Vermont. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are accepted.
Bread and Puppet: Cheap Art and Political Theater in Vermont
753 Heights Road
Glover, Vermont 05839
802-525-3031
www.breadandpuppet.org/
