Green Mountains Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Green Mountains with this complete travel guide. Explore the best places, hiking routes, food, culture, and more.


Introduction to Green Mountains

Green Mountains is a picturesque mountain range located in the state of Vermont, in New England, United States of America. The mountain range gets its name from the lush greenery that covers its slopes, making it a beautiful destination for nature lovers. With a height of more than 4,000 feet, the Green Mountains draw thousands of tourists every year with their stunning vistas, wildlife, and outdoor adventure opportunities.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a virtual tour of Green Mountains and highlight the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local food to try, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Green Mountains

Green Mountains is packed with numerous places to visit, ranging from natural attractions to historical sites and museums. Here are some must-visit places in Green Mountains:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Bennington Museum - A museum that showcases the art and history of Bennington, Vermont.
  2. Calvin Coolidge Homestead - The birthplace and childhood home of the 30th President of the United States.
  3. Hildene - A historic Georgian Revival mansion that belonged to the family of Abraham Lincoln.

Natural Attractions of Green Mountains: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Mansfield - The highest mountain in Vermont, with a peak at 4,393 feet.
  2. Appalachian Trail - A 2,200-mile hiking trail that passes through Green Mountains.
  3. Green Mountain National Forest - A vast protected area, with acres of forest, streams, and trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Green Mountains

Green Mountains is a paradise for hikers and bikers with its hundreds of miles of trails that offer varying degrees of difficulty and picturesque views. Some of the popular routes are:

  1. Long Trail - A 273-mile hiking trail that runs along the spine of the Green Mountains.
  2. Mount Pisgah - A challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  3. Kingdom Trails - A popular destination for bikers and hikers, with over 100 miles of trails to explore.

Best Things to Do in Green Mountains: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Green Mountains offers plenty of other activities and tours to keep you entertained:

  1. Skiing and Snowboarding - Green Mountains is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
  2. Kayaking and Canoeing - Explore the breathtaking lakes and rivers of Green Mountains.
  3. Hot Air Balloon Rides - Experience the awe-inspiring views of Green Mountains from a whole new perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Green Mountains

Green Mountains is an ideal destination for a week-long getaway. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Hike the Long Trail
Day 2 Visit the Hildene
Day 3 Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort
Day 4 Explore Green Mountain National Forest
Day 5 Visit the Bennington Museum
Day 6 Kayak on Lake Champlain
Day 7 Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Food and Drink Scene of Green Mountains

Green Mountains is a foodie’s paradise, where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Maple Syrup - A staple in Vermont, made from the sap of maple trees.
  2. Apple Cider Donuts - A delicious and popular snack made with local apples.
  3. Vermont Cheddar Cheese - A sharp and tangy cheddar cheese, made from locally-sourced milk.

Local Beverages

  1. Vermont Beer - The state has a thriving craft beer scene.
  2. Cider - Made from locally grown apples, with a slightly sweet and tangy taste.
  3. Maple Liqueur - A sweet liqueur made from Vermont maple syrup.

Where to Stay in Green Mountains: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Green Mountains offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some places to stay:

  1. Stowe Mountain Lodge - A luxurious resort that offers stunning views and a range of amenities and outdoor activities.
  2. Burlington Hostel - An affordable and comfortable hostel located in the heart of Burlington.
  3. The Windham Hill Inn - A charming bed and breakfast that offers beautiful views and a cozy atmosphere.

What to Buy in Green Mountains: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Green Mountains is famous for its locally-made products that make for excellent souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of the best items to buy:

  1. Maple Syrup - A must-buy souvenir that makes for the perfect gift.
  2. Handcrafted Pottery - Local artisans create beautiful pottery that makes for unique souvenirs.
  3. Woolen Clothing - The region is known for its woolen clothing, including hats, mittens, and scarves.

Local Culture and Customs of Green Mountains

The people of Green Mountains are proud of their heritage and traditions, which are deeply rooted in the region’s history and natural beauty. Here are some cultural and customs to be aware of:

  1. Respect the environment - Green Mountains is a protected area, and visitors are expected to respect the environment and wildlife.
  2. Embrace the local food - Vermont is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes.
  3. Be friendly - Vermonters are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation.

Best Time to Visit Green Mountains

Green Mountains can be visited at any time of the year, depending on your preferences. The autumn months offer stunning views of the changing leaves, while winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Spring and summer are great for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Green Mountains

Do:

  1. Respect the environment and wildlife.
  2. Try the local cuisine.
  3. Explore the outdoors and take in the stunning views.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or leave trash behind.
  2. Damage or disturb plants and wildlife.
  3. Ignore safety guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Green Mountains

Green Mountains is a relatively safe destination, with few incidents of crime or violence. However, visitors are advised to take basic safety precautions like locking their vehicles and securing valuables.

Health in Green Mountains

Green Mountains has excellent medical facilities, with several hospitals and clinics located in the region. Visitors are advised to carry a sufficient supply of prescription medication and seek medical attention if necessary.

Getting to Green Mountains: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Green Mountains

The nearest major airport to Green Mountains is Burlington International Airport, located about 45 minutes from Stowe. Other airports within driving distance include Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport and Albany International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Green Mountains

Greyhound and Vermont Translines operate bus services to several towns and cities near Green Mountains, including Burlington and Rutland.

Other Options

Vermont has several Amtrak train stations that offer train service to various destinations in the state. Visitors can also rent a car from major rental companies located at the airports.

How to Get Around in Green Mountains

Green Mountains is best explored by car, as public transportation is limited in the region. Visitors can rent a car at one of the airports or in one of the nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Green Mountains: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Green Mountains is located in New England, an area rich in history and natural beauty. Some nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting include:

  1. Boston, Massachusetts - A historic city with a thriving cultural scene, located about 3 hours from Green Mountains.
  2. Lake Placid, New York - A scenic town located in the Adirondack Mountains, known for its winter sports and outdoor activities.
  3. White Mountains, New Hampshire - A stunning mountain range in New Hampshire, known for its hiking trails and scenic drives.

Conclusion

Green Mountains is a destination like no other, offering breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of this beautiful region.