According to a recent travel poll by Viator, a Tripadvisory Company, four New England states rank in the Top 10 Best States to visit for a winter adventure, with Vermont taking first place. Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire are also included in the list of top destinations for outdoor adventures and picturesque snow-covered landscapes.
Winter in Vermont is not to be missed! Known for its beautiful wintery backdrops, the state enjoys an average snowfall of over 63 inches (5.25 feet!) during the winter months. For such a tiny state, it certainly features plenty of winter adventures from which to choose! Boasting high numbers of ice rinks, ski resorts, and indoor activities makes Vermont a winter vacation no-brainer.
As one of the best places to go skiing in the US, Vermont attracts seasoned skiers as well as those primed to learn with its winter playgrounds such as Stowe, Killington, and Okemo. They deserve bragging rights for the 20 ski resorts, 30 cross-country ski areas, and 5,000+ miles of maintained snowmobile trails.
Another wildly popular activity this season is ice skating with friends and family. Vermont came in second place as the best state to visit for ice skating this season. For skaters of all ability levels, the 4.3-star Riley Rink at Hunter Park offers both private and public skating, making for an incredible winter experience. In addition, there are charming outdoor rinks all around the state, such as the 4.5-mile outdoor loop at Lake Morey Resort, which is billed as the longest outdoor skating track in the country.
Want a slower, more tranquil pace? Try a backcountry snowshoe adventure with Sunrise Mountain Guides to yet-undiscovered parts of Green Mountain State Forest. Or try a hand at ice-fishing at Lake Champlain Bay. When it’s finally time to get out of the cold and into the warmth, book Burlington’s Craft Beer Journey with City Brew Tours, where you get to drink but they do all the driving.
It’s no wonder that Vermont won Top Destination for a Winter Wonderland Adventure. There is so much to experience whether it’s skiing, ice-skating, or a brewery tour…who knows, you might even spot a moose moseying about during your visit!
By Susan O’Connor