Vermont is known for many things, not least of all is its maple syrup. There has long been a debate about whether or not pure maple syrup is worth spending the money on and we're here to tell you that yes, it is! So why not go one step further and see where maple syrup is created, how it's done, and how it's graded? Vermont is home to plenty of sugarhouses that have been a longstanding cornerstone of the maple industry, each of them bringing forth their own unique flavors and style of maple making.
As the trees are tapped each winter, many come to visit Vermont between the months of February and March and are delighted to see so many trees with those trademark buckets beneath them. The art of tapping trees for syrup spans back centuries and in this state, it's a tradition that has been upheld and respected for longer than many people realize. Along with traditional maple syrup, anything from maple candy to maple ice cream can be found at sugarhouses, along with what many pancake fans refer to as 'liquid gold.' To get the full experience, these are the sugarhouses that should be on your list in the future.
Evans Maple Farm
Located in East Dummerston, Vermont, Evans Maple Farm has been mastering the art of making maple syrup since 1975. Their operation has been passed down through three generations, giving a whole new meaning to keeping the family business open. For over a century now, those at Evans Maple Farm have been working to perfect their craft and have been sharing it with Vermonters and visitors thanks to the use of roughly 3,000 taps, all mounted on their own trees. In the average year, Evans Maple Farm produces about 1,000 gallons of maple syrup, building on the tradition that their ancestors began so many years ago. Their website tells folks about the detailed process of how they go about making the perfect, premium-quality maple syrup, as well as offering delicious recipes and a bit of background on where their syrups can be purchased.
Lilac Ridge Farm
Back in 2013, Lilac Ridge Farm celebrated 75 amazing years of being in business. This farm is located in Brattleboro and while farming is their business all year-round, making incredible maple syrup is another thing this family is known for. The farm spans roughly 600 acres and it's a beautiful place to go and relax any time of year, but especially during the summer. When the farmstand is open, visitors can pick up any number of seasonal vegetables along with other goodies procured by the owners.
The Sugar Shack
In Arlington, Vermont, The Sugar Shack offers visitors a great guest experience when it comes to maple syrup and the sugaring process. This sugarhouse also boasts a bakery serving up delicious treats such as pies, maple-frosted cookies, and, of course, a local favorite, cider donuts. Their maple syrup production lasts from February to early April, leaving plenty of time for visitors to check out the operation and get a taste for (all four grades of) maple syrup.
Paradise Farm Sugarhouse
Also in Brattleboro, the Paradise Farm Sugarhouse is serving up pure maple syrup as you've never had it before. Their operation has been ongoing since 1954 and was featured in National Geographic, and while a new sugarhouse has since replaced the old one, they're still producing some of the best maple syrup around. The farm itself sits on over 55 acres of land and is surrounded by Sugar Maple trees, which is truly a sight to behold. While the gift store has been closed since the pandemic, visitors are still encouraged to purchase products online or opt for pickup until a safe reopening.
Harlow's Sugar House
In Putney, Vermont, Harlow's Sugar House is a wonderful place to experience all that Vermont is about. This sugarhouse is full of goodies all year-round from Christmas trees during the holidays to seasonal produce throughout the summer and fall months. And, of course, the maple syrup! In addition to pure maple syrup, those visiting Harlow's Sugar House will find anything from maple candy to maple cream, which are two must-try items for those visiting the Green Mountain State. It's a haven for maple lovers and their gift shop is also open for browsing, featuring local Vermont goods and edible items. During the summer, this sugarhouse is the go-to place for those in the area to get creemees - a local Vermont ice cream favorite!