On the Road: Must-See Natural Attractions in Vermont

Vermont isn't nicknamed "The Green Mountain State" for nothing. Home to picturesque hikes, epic ski runs, and breath-taking vistas, Vermont is an ideal place to enjoy nature. Touring this small state by car provides easy access to some of the country's most impressive trails, waterfalls, lakes, and mountains. Enjoy colorful foliage in the fall, fresh snow for winter skiing, cool swimming holes in the summer, and the sweet symphony of bird song in the spring. Don't miss these must-see natural attractions in Vermont.

Brattleboro Farmers' Market

In southern Vermont, start your road trip by picking up a range of treasures at Brattleboro Farmers' Market. This quaint lunch spot celebrates the produce of Vermont's small farms. Local honey, flowers, vegetables, artisanal breads, maple syrup, cheeses, soaps, and much more are available for sale, all made by artists and farmers who understand and respect the area's natural resources. Live music and dancers often add to the fun.

Green Mountain National Forest

Driving west from Brattleboro, head into the Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont's only federally-managed land. The forest is home to the state's section of the Appalachian Trail. Stop to do some exploring in the Grout Pond Recreation Area, which covers 1,600 acres and is popular for camping, fishing, and canoeing. Open year-round, the 10 miles of flat trails are ideal for hiking and cross-country skiing at all levels. Alternatively, Bald Mountain Trail, starting at Bennington, is great for a three-hour round-trip excursion.

Buttermilk Falls

Driving north from the Green Mountains, be sure to stop in Ludlow, located just northeast of the forest. On a hot summer day, nothing beats the short hike to Buttermilk Falls. The 1.1-mile wooded trail leads to sparkling waterfalls and refreshing swimming holes that are perfect for families. Wade in the chilly waters of the upper, middle, or lower falls, but we recommend water shoes for safety. Look for cars parked along Buttermilk Falls Road off Route 103 to find the trailhead.

Quechee Gorge

Heading northeast from Ludlow will take you to a walkway along the iron bridge on Route 4 that grants you access to a breath-taking vista across the deepest gorge in the state. Formed by glaciers 13,000 years ago, Quechee Gorge is continually cut by the energy of the Ottauquechee River. A trail leads through the woods to the rim of the gorge for an up-close and personal view of one of Vermont’s best natural sites.

Stowe Recreation Path

It's a short drive along Interstate 89 to reach the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak. Stowe Recreation Path offers a low impact way to enjoy the beauty of the area. Rent a bike or take a stroll on the paved path to take in the vistas of Mount Mansfield, which offers some of the best all-level winter skiing as well as a challenging summer rock climb. With no motorized vehicles allowed, Stowe's flat, 5.5-mile path meanders alongside streams and fields, making it a good place to take a jog or go on a family bike ride.

Lake Champlain

Head west toward Burlington to experience one of the best natural attractions in Vermont. Found on the border of Vermont and New York and stretching into Canada, Lake Champlain is a must-see natural attraction. Whether you're into kayaking, ice fishing, or enjoying romantic dinners at lakefront restaurants, the 587 miles of shoreline are also home to more than 300 species of birds and other wildlife.

If you take a dip in the lake, be sure to look out for "Champy," the 20-foot serpent monster that Samuel de Champlain, the lake's namesake, claims to have seen. To conduct a proper search, take one of the area's boat tours, such as the Spirit of Ethan Allen. For a sweet treat, drive over to Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury Center to try one of their legendary cider donuts.

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