Where to stay

Northern Vermont consists of spectacular rocky parks and quaint lakeside towns. It contains the state’s highest mountain as well as the capital, Montpelier. Split your time between the cultured towns and dramatic countryside in this varied state.

In the western section, visit Burlington, where chic urbanity is a stark contrast to the rest of rural and tranquil Northern Vermont. Get a sense of the local culture in the upscale shops of Church Street Marketplace and see the town center’s main sights, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and City Hall Park.

Stroll along the boulevard in Waterfront Park and rent a canoe at North Beach to paddle out on Lake Champlain. Take a cruise across the water with the Lake Champlain Ferry and visit the restaurants and inns adorning the shore.

Ride a bus southeast for just over 1.5 hours to reach Montpelier. Visit the many intriguing institutions, such as the Vermont Historical Society Museum, the Lost Nation Theater and the T.W. Wood Gallery.

Just north of the city are several scenic parks, including Camel’s Hump State Park, C.C. Putnam State Forest and Mount Mansfield State Forest. The latter contains Mount Mansfield Peak, the highest summit in Vermont. Explore the spectacular scenery in the ski region of Stowe, where you will find Alpine Double, Stowe Mountain Resort and the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum.

Make your way to the towns in the scenic Northeast Kingdom in the corner of the state. Go mountain biking or skiing, depending on the season. Expect occasional winter blizzards in the mountainous parts of the state.

This region is just south of Vermont’s border with Canada in the northeastern corner of the U.S. Fly to Burlington International Airport and get around the area by Amtrak train, Greyhound bus or rental car. Make sure to visit the neighboring areas of Central Vermont, northwestern New York and northern New Hampshire.

Northern Vermont is a fabulous skiing area with charming towns and lakes.