Imagine a journey where every turn reveals a postcard-worthy scene.
Well, pack your bags and charge your camera, because that’s exactly what awaits on this Vermont adventure!
1. Little River State Park (Waterbury)
Let’s kick things off with a splash at Little River State Park.
This aquatic wonderland is like nature’s own water park, minus the overpriced snacks and questionable hygiene standards.
The park boasts a pristine lake that’s so clear, you might mistake it for a giant mirror someone left in the woods.
As you approach the shoreline, you’ll spot wooden docks jutting out into the water, practically begging you to practice your cannonballs.
But before you make a splash, take a moment to soak in the view.
The surrounding hills are dressed in a patchwork quilt of evergreens and deciduous trees, creating a backdrop so picturesque it could make Bob Ross weep with joy.
For those who prefer terra firma, there are hiking trails that wind through the forest like nature’s own roller coaster.
Just remember, unlike actual roller coasters, these trails don’t come with a height requirement or a “you must be this outdoorsy to ride” sign.
2. Waterbury Center State Park (Waterbury Center)
Next up, we’re heading to Waterbury Center State Park, where the views are so good, you’ll want to slap them on a postcard and send them to your friends (do people still send postcards? Asking for a friend).
This park is home to a lake that’s smoother than a fresh jar of skippy, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or just floating around like a human buoy.
The surrounding mountains create a natural amphitheater, as if Mother Nature decided to set up her own drive-in movie theater.
But the real show-stopper here is the way the light plays on the water.
At sunset, the lake turns into a liquid gold spectacle that would make King Midas jealous.
It’s the kind of view that makes you want to write poetry, even if the last thing you wrote was a grocery list.
3. Ben & Jerry’s Factory (Waterbury)
Hold onto your taste buds, folks, because our next stop is the holy grail of frozen treats – the Ben & Jerry’s Factory.
This is where ice cream dreams come true, and diets go to die.
As you approach, you’ll spot the iconic red barn with its cheery “Welcome” sign.
It’s like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, but with more cow puns and less risk of turning into a blueberry.
The air is thick with the sweet scent of waffle cones and possibility.
Inside, you can take a tour that’s part history lesson, part ice cream making demonstration, and 100% delicious.
You’ll learn about Ben and Jerry’s humble beginnings, their commitment to social causes, and most importantly, you’ll get to sample the goods.
It’s like a field trip, but instead of bringing home a rock from the science museum, you bring home a pint of Chunky Monkey.
4. Cold Hollow Cider Mill (Waterbury Center)
From ice cream, we move on to another form of liquid gold – apple cider.
The Cold Hollow Cider Mill is where apples go to fulfill their destiny of becoming the most delicious drink known to mankind (sorry, coffee, you’re a close second).
As you pull up, you’ll see a charming red building that looks like it was plucked straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Inside, it’s a apple-lover’s paradise.
The air is thick with the scent of cinnamon and happiness, and you can watch the cider-making process in action.
It’s like a Rube Goldberg machine, but instead of a marble rolling down a track, it’s apples being transformed into nectar of the gods.
Don’t leave without trying their famous cider donuts.
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They’re so good, you might be tempted to propose marriage to one.
Just remember, in Vermont, it’s still illegal to marry baked goods (I think).
5. Stowe Mountain Resort (Stowe)
Next, we’re heading to Stowe Mountain Resort, where you can get high… on altitude, of course!
This place is a year-round playground that makes you feel like you’re starring in your own outdoor adventure movie.
In winter, it’s a snowy paradise where you can schuss down slopes faster than a greased-up bobsledder.
But we’re here in the warmer months, which means we get to experience the mountain in all its green glory.
The gondola ride to the top is like a slow-motion flight through the treetops.
As you ascend, watch the world shrink beneath you like you’re in a real-life version of “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.”
At the summit, you’re greeted with views that stretch for miles.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada (wave hello to Justin Trudeau for me).
6. Moss Glen Falls (Stowe)
From mountain peaks, we descend into a hidden forest gem – Moss Glen Falls.
This is nature’s version of a multi-tiered wedding cake, except instead of fondant and buttercream, it’s made of rushing water and ancient rock.
The falls cascade down in a series of elegant drops, each one more photogenic than the last.
It’s like Mother Nature decided to show off her landscaping skills and went a little overboard with the water features.
The surrounding greenery is so lush, you half expect to see a dinosaur lumbering through (spoiler alert: you won’t, unless you’ve been hitting the cider a bit too hard).
The short hike to the falls is easy enough that you won’t need to pack oxygen tanks, but just challenging enough to make you feel like you’ve earned that granola bar burning a hole in your pocket.
7. Camel’s Hump State Park (Duxbury)
Our next stop is Camel’s Hump State Park, home to one of Vermont’s most iconic peaks.
Despite its name, you won’t find any dromedaries here (false advertising, I know), but what you will find are views that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
The hike to the summit is not for the faint of heart or weak of knee.
It’s a bit like nature’s StairMaster, but instead of mindlessly climbing while watching daytime TV, you’re surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery this side of the Mississippi.
Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that’ll make you feel like you’re on top of the world (or at least on top of Vermont).
On a clear day, you can see Lake Champlain to the west and the White Mountains of New Hampshire to the east.
It’s the kind of view that makes you want to break out into a Julie Andrews-style twirl, but maybe save that for when you’re back on flat ground.
8. Smugglers’ Notch State Park (Stowe)
We’re wrapping up our tour with a visit to Smugglers’ Notch State Park, a place with a name that sounds like it should be in a pirate movie, but is actually a slice of Vermont paradise.
The park is named for the narrow pass between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, which was once used by smugglers to move goods (and people) in and out of Canada.
These days, the only thing being smuggled through here are amazing vacation memories.
In summer, the park is a haven for hikers and rock climbers.
The boulders scattered throughout the notch are like nature’s jungle gym for grown-ups.
If you’re not into scaling vertical rock faces (can’t imagine why not), there are plenty of trails that wind through the forest and alongside bubbling streams.
The real showstopper here is the road through the notch itself.
It’s narrow, winding, and flanked by towering cliffs – like a roller coaster designed by Mother Nature herself.
Just remember, if you’re driving an RV through here, you might want to reconsider.
Unless, of course, you fancy the idea of playing a real-life game of Tetris with your vehicle and the rock walls.
And there you have it, folks – a whirlwind tour of some of Vermont’s finest offerings.
From creamy treats to craggy peaks, this route serves up a smorgasbord of Green Mountain goodness.
Your road trip starts here.
Use this map to stay on course and create memories at every turn.
So gas up the car, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe some stretchy pants for all that ice cream), and hit the road.
Vermont’s waiting, and trust me, it’s even better in person!