When winter adventures are wanted, Vermont is the perfect host because it has some of the largest ski resorts in New England. Its white-capped mountains, snow-covered meadows, and icy waterways work together to deliver outdoor adventures that match those in the Alps.
Spending winter in Vermont means enjoying skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and sledding. The air is chilling, but the Green Mountain State has towns that will warm the hearts of visitors thanks to their charming vibe and the hospitality of the locals. After all, Vermont is big on recreational activities, so its cities and villages know how to fill the cup of adrenaline-seekers.
10 Manchester
The town of Manchester puts the ‘win’ in winter, thanks to its location between the Green Mountains and Taconic Range that gives that chilling breeze come snow time. One of its top winter attractions is the Hildene mansion, where cross-country skiers and snowshoers can enjoy its 12 miles of trails. It’s also near the Bromley Mountain Resort for those who want more adventurous slides. Manchester is probably popular because of its factory outlet stores, so those visiting during the snow season should drop by a few shops to grab the best winter outfits.
9 Woodstock
If winter is coming, Woodstock is always ready – more than ready. For starters, it has one of the oldest ski areas in the country, so snow lovers can rest easy knowing the slopes they're conquering can give them that challenge. Nordic skiers and snowboarders will have an ecstatic time conquering hills, too. Those who want mellow moments can take the well-groomed snowshoeing trails, while visitors eager to rev can try snowmobiling the mountains. Atop, on the hills, or at the foothills, Woodstock knows how to wow.
8 Stowe
Stowe is one of the most famous places in Vermont because it is home to Stowe Mountain Resort. However, the town is more than just the ski paradise on Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Those who want a casual vacation can head to Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3-mile trail where snowshoers can criss-cross. The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, meanwhile, is the perfect place to rest and recover after hitting the slopes. It’s easy to understand why Stowe is dubbed the Ski Capital of the East.
7 Waitsfield
Located in the Mad River Valley between the Green and Northfield Mountains, it's easy to see why snow revelers flock to Waitsfield. After all, it’s near the famous ski resorts of Sugarbush and Mad River Glen. The latter is home to the famous Single Chair lift, while the former has the state's second-largest vertical drop. On the other hand, those who want mellow moments can snowshoe in The Round Barn or Featherbed Inn. Be it adrenaline-packed adventures or casual strolls, Waitsfield has it.
6 Bennington
Bennington is known for the 306-foot Battle Monument, the tallest structure in Vermont, and seeing it covered by powdery snow is a sight to behold. It’s near the Hildene mansion, where skiing and snowshoeing can be enjoyed, but the best place to conquer the slopes is the Green Mountains. To get the most out of a stay in Bennington, tourists should visit in time for the Winterfest, a fun-filled celebration highlighted by the Lake Paran Plunge, also known as the Penguin Plunge. What a cool town, indeed.
5 Grafton
Though a small town, Grafton is big on surprises, thanks to its location by the valley of the Saxtons River. When the months are humid, the lushness of the town is so inspiring, and when snowfall comes, the whitened landscape is as relaxing. Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center is the main playground for those who want to try Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, fat biking, and sleigh rides. Grafton offers a holistic winter vacation, making any snow moments in town a gratifying experience.
4 Burlington
A city by Lake Champlain, the breeze in Burlington inspires visitors to explore its winter wonderland. For starters, it is home to the headquarters of Burton Snowboards, so visitors would know right away that it’s a place of adventure. The city is near some of the best winter spots, like Bolton Valley Resort for skiers, Cairns Arena for ice hockey enthusiasts, and Camel's Hump for Nordic skiers, among others. Snowshoeing, fat biking, snowmobiling, and ice skating can also be enjoyed, and visitors just need to choose their game.
3 East Burke
East Burke only has a population of over 90 (as of 2020), so locals are always eager to welcome visitors. This census-designated place is in the town of Burke and is the proud home of Burke Mountain and Burke Mountain Academy. The former is a popular ski destination as it has over 50 trails, while the latter is for those who want to further their skiing skills. East Burke produced many international ski champions, so visitors are assured of wonderful snow moments.
2 Montpelier
Montpelier is known as “America's smallest capital city” and the only state capital without a Starbucks, Walmart, or Mcdonald's. They really do things differently in this charming city, so spontaneous moments are encouraged, be it winter, spring, summer, or fall. When snow arrives, tourists can join locals skating or attending a winter concert in the State House or the Spice on Snow music festival. The downtown is a charming destination when winter comes, with holiday lights setting the mood for a worthwhile Vermont vacation.
1 Wilmington
By this time, tourists should know that any town in the Green Mountains is an adept winter host, like Wilmington. Situated in the Deerfield Valley, the community is near Mount Snow, where scenic skiing and snowboarding can be had. The town's mountains and rural spots are perfect for snowmobiling tours, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing. Winter sports are thrilling in this part of Vermont, and whatever the activity, tourists are assured of adrenaline-packed moments. Travelers must try kissing the breeze in Wilmington.