photo source: google |
With four seasons of delights to offer travelers, Vermont is a welcome destination at any time of year. While most visitors head home once the temperatures start to fall, the state's many ski resorts and cross-country trails beckon another kind of traveler. For those who love the outdoors but don't prefer skiing, the sport of snowshoeing offers a wonderful alternative to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise.
With more than 30 miles of woodland trails, the Blueberry Hill Outdoor Center in Goshen is a great destination for beginners. Use of the trails is free and the terrain is varied for any level of fitness. Heading north to the shores of Lake Champlain, snowshoers can traverse the Colchester Causeway, a long stretch of railway converted for use as a hiking trail. Enjoy sweeping views of the frozen lake and the snow-covered pines. The route is level and appropriate for any ability.
For a more challenging stretch of trail, visitors can tackle Camels Hump in Huntington. The aim is to reach the summit, achieved by following a winding, thickly wooded trail steadily upwards to reach a height of more than 4,000 feet. The views are incredible, but the workout is strenuous and best left to those seasoned snowshoers who are in excellent physical shape. Another challenging series of trails can be found at Mount Mansfield, the state's tallest peak. Not for beginners, this network of back country paths lead to the summit for some breathtaking views over Vermont's famous ski country.
Back on level ground, the perfect trek for families is at Little River State Park in Waterbury. In addition to the expected forest beauty, there are the historic remains of old villages and cemeteries along the way. The reservoir at the park is often frozen at this time of year, making it another avenue of fun for little ones. The trails are not long and the ground is flat, perfect for beginners or those who favor enjoying time outdoors over physical exertion.
Snowshoeing can be a rewarding and economical hobby that offers a chance for some fresh air and an increased heart rate in the great outdoors. Just pack a lunch, strap on your snowshoes, throw a pair of instant hand warmers in your pack and add a reliable trail map to enjoy the very best of Vermont's unforgettable back country beauty.
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We have a Goshen and a Huntington out here in MA too! My mother-in-law loves to snowshoe. I just say I need something - anything - to make me love winter. New England is quite amazing at providing activities year-round.
ReplyDeleteI would love to go to Vermont one day. I know it's gorgeous there. I could use some fresh air and relaxation.
ReplyDeleteThe snowy back country in Vernon look so beautiful and tranquil. My kids are a little you now, but when they are a little bit older, taking them snowshoeing will definitely be a great family event.
ReplyDeleteThis is something I have always wanted to try! I live in Utah so I have no excuse not to. Looks so fun!
ReplyDeleteI want to see snow so bad!! I would love to visit this place!
ReplyDeleteI would love to go somewhere with a lot of snow. We never get anything down here in South Louisiana! We got some this year and it was so magical!
ReplyDeleteVermont looks like such a lovely place to visit. I have some family in the area I need to go visit!
ReplyDeleteWow how stunning! Vermont has always been somewhere I really want to visit, it looks like somewhere my children would love!
ReplyDeleteI took a course at Middlebury and fell in love with Vermont. It would take me some time to get used to snowshoeing, It's hard enough to walk in snow with regular boots!
ReplyDeleteI think this is a must to experience if you're ever in Vermont. I'm sure the view is amazing even if you don't climb the 4000 ft. summit.
ReplyDeleteI have always wanted to be out in a place like Vermont in the winter. Just the beautiful trees and snow everywhere looks amazing. I can only imagine what it must be like to be out in snow shoes out there.
ReplyDeletelook at that snow! beautiful! i have never been to vermont before but it really sounds fantastic, especially in winter!
ReplyDeleteI would really like to go to Vermont someday to ski. I did not think there were such ski runs. Now I will look at the tour operators' suggestions
ReplyDeleteWow. That is an awesome place to visit. We do not have snow here so it will be nice to experience it.
ReplyDeleteI never thought to take a travel trip to Vermont. I love your recap with all that nice beautiful snow.
ReplyDeleteNever thought about Vermont - but your pictures now want me to visit the place!
ReplyDeleteThat is a beautiful place! I bet it would be fun and exciting to see and play there.
ReplyDeleteWill be a good experience to go out in the snow in Vermont with those snow shoes and explore nature over there.
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