Vermont Outdoor Activities: Top 5 Adventures & Reviews
Vermont, a state very often known for its picturesque landscapes and captivating rural charm, really beckons to outdoor lovers and adventurers alike. Very often, you will see visitors travel far and wide just to discover a myriad of very fun things that the state has for anyone that enjoys the outdoors. It doesn’t really matter what time of year it is, from taking peaceful strolls in nature to challenging ski expeditions and amazing watersports, there’s an adventure waiting around nearly every corner. Very often it’s just the right place if you enjoy exploring the outdoors.
1. Hiking the Green Mountains
Hiking through the Green Mountains, arguably the backbone of Vermont, really offers pretty spectacular trails for people with all sorts of different fitness levels and tastes for exploration. Apparently, one very fun choice, or very popular, is tackling a piece of the famous Long Trail. The Long Trail, of course, winds its way all the way through the state, right from Massachusetts all the way up to Canada, and gives awesome vistas and places that allow you to have experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Maybe you are up to spending an entire day on the trail, or you would much prefer something a bit shorter and very manageable; you can customize a hike to meet your abilities and just how much you are in the mood to wander.
Now, here’s the scoop from somebody that really spent time roaming Vermont’s beloved trails: think about places such as the very inviting Mount Philo for something on the easier side or Camel’s Hump to put your stamina up to the test, it can be extremely rewarding once you get to the summit! Arguably, no matter what, always carry very key essentials like water, food to snack on, and a dependable map – or device – , that way you can hike knowing you’re covered as far as preparedness. Seriously, a comfortable backpack can turn an ok hike into one you’ll never forget, believe me! Read our full review: Green Mountains Hiking Full Review and Details.
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2. Kayaking and Canoeing on Lake Champlain
Very often when people think of watersports in Vermont, very calm Lake Champlain might be very high on many lists, because of its striking views and the amount of activity one can engage in while at the lake. Launch a kayak or canoe onto the waters and you can get a very cool close up experience as you skirt the edges, seeing the beauty Vermont’s nature has on display; very often a sight to remember. So it’s almost that depending how adventurous you feel, you can explore various areas around the lake, seeing cool landmarks and various ecological spots. This experience gives visitors and residents of Vermont alike, an amazing opportunity to just connect with nature. If you would like to paddle solo to get in tune with yourself, or if you are in for a nice leisurely ride, then Lake Champlain is sure to please!
Having been there myself and seen what Lake Champlain has to show anyone passing through, getting on the water is something you have to experience. Try launching somewhere near Burlington; you could be able to paddle around to very lovely spots that really are like islands close to the shore! One piece of advice I can give you, really think about keeping an eye on what the conditions are when it comes to the weather and the current because this is definitely important for your enjoyment, but really for your safety on the water. Also it can’t hurt to take sunscreen and sunglasses with you too. Read our full review: Kayaking Lake Champlain Full Review and Details.
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3. Skiing and Snowboarding in Stowe
When snow hits Vermont, the ski and snowboard lovers start thinking about taking a ride down the slopes. And Stowe is one of the most very well-known destinations when it comes to taking on the snow! Seriously, Stowe Mountain Resort has routes cut out for experts or novices; everyone can have some winter fun! And don’t let the thrill on the trail take all the fun. If you feel like kicking back a little you can also enjoy nice mountain eating or see the pretty sites Stowe village has to offer. Very often Stowe serves up some nice outdoor thrills coupled with small town enjoyment.
Just because of being one of those that feels really happy swooshing down Stowe Mountain, let me tell you to think about gearing up the night before; because on any good snow day you want to be out on the slopes early as possible. The slopes, after all, get real busy after a bit, you know? Keep in mind that taking a lesson if you’re just getting started, or just starting out for the season, is going to pay off as far as getting the basic knowledge for keeping yourself okay and just getting more out of what’s being offered. Seriously though, warm, water-resistant clothes really make all the difference, believe me, and with those crisp days out on the slopes, I mean. Read our full review: Skiing Stowe Full Review and Details.
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4. Biking the Burlington Greenway
Those that enjoy casual and serene biking adventures really are in for a very pleasing experience when considering a visit or use of the Burlington Greenway. If the name isn’t apparent from the get-go, The Greenway is really about twelve miles, going right along the shores of Lake Champlain; in some respects, there are some stunning lake views to take in while on two wheels. Besides having a very nice smooth route that runs the entire time it’s there, it links with different parks, beaches, and places of local renown, so you can rest if you wish or just turn it into a leisurely day checking out all there is to view! As you probably know, it suits families, groups, and single bikers alike! You have the right blend of activity and nice views.
One memory I can draw from is just really what it feels like to bike by the lake and just let all those great views sink in as you calmly traverse. Depending where you’re at, there are spots that can make for a nice halt, say, near Waterfront Park; perfect if you enjoy taking in some sun by the beach for example! Really you might like to check the map so you have a very nice outline of where the path is supposed to take you so it will assist in planning a pleasant route. Apparently it would also be ideal if you had some stuff like water handy, just in case, especially if it gets hot. Read our full review: Burlington Greenway Biking Full Review and Details.
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5. Fishing Vermont’s Rivers and Streams
Vermont is pretty awesome as a venue for folks who really love to go fishing; there is quite a wide variety of streams and rivers where you can take a shot at hooking fish! Those rivers are very cool, and are filled with trout just ready for an angler to come cast in their waters; you can pick what stream that calls your name based off what they have to offer for different skill levels or whatever kind of nature backdrop you want to enjoy while you fish. It just feels right as a way to ease your mind, all the while connecting to some extremely gorgeous environs, in some respects, an exciting activity.
From personal accounts, wading out to these waters offers great times for anybody, but the experience seems extra good if you’ve had some prep work or if you just love fishing like that. Remember to sort out what license is necessary if you are going to cast those lines because it’s arguably best to check those details, right? And, so to have your best luck hooking one, maybe think about going with some very trustworthy bait. Furthermore, Winooski River is a location known to have many fish, just as an aside! Very often the peace and tranquility from fishing coupled with planning can be a very fulfilling experience, and of course, if you get something on the line, that just adds to the feeling! Read our full review: Fishing Vermont Rivers Full Review and Details.
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