About Vermont

Vermont, known as The Green Mountain State, is one of six states that form the New England region of Northeastern USA. The state covers 9,609 square miles, and in population is the 48th largest (or the third smallest) in the US with some 600,000 residents, all of whom are waiting to welcome you!

The Green Mountain range runs down the spine of the state with Lake Champlain and its river valley to the west running along the border with New York state. Both highlands and lowlands make up the topography of the state with beautifully shimmering lakes and winding mountain streams cutting their way through the mountains, valleys and plains that make up Vermont—a sight not to be missed.

The capital city is Montpelier and is home to a population of about 8,000. With such a small population, the city is known as the “smallest capital city of the nation”. Several national publications have also dubbed the city the most scenic state capital.

The largest city is Burlington (pop. 39,000) and is known as the “Sweet City on the Lake” because of its location overlooking Lake Champlain. Lively and vibrant, Downtown Burlington is the bustling commercial centre for the city. This area is also the shopping district of the city with over 160 retail establishments.

The Climate
The summer months are generally mild, with the average temperatures reaching the high 20s. The hottest month is July when some years temperatures have been known to reach 35° C.

Fall (autumn) is spectacular. Large numbers of holiday makers visit Vermont to witness the leaves changing colour. The fall season runs from September through to early November, with changing colours starting in the north of the state and moving south during this period.

The winter season is perhaps the most lively of all in Vermont. Skiing is one of the better known activities of the state, with 21 ski resorts, over 900 ski trails, 40 cross country ski centres and 5,700 acres of snowboarding terrain. But there are plenty of other recreational options to pursue: snow mobiling, ice skating, sledging and husky sleighs to name but a few.

Temperatures often fall below freezing, although they do tend to vary quite substantially from place to place. The annual average snowfall is normally between 65–75 inches, but as much as 300 inches has been known to fall at higher elevations. The peak snowfall season is between November and March.

Recreation
Whether you are interested in winter, summer or fall activities, Vermont offers some of the best outdoor pursuits. The range of recreational activities on offer in the state means that each and every visitor will find a pursuit of their choice.

Vermont welcomes those wishing to take part in alternative winter activities. One of the events being held this year is the 4th Annual ESPN Winter Extreme Games at the Mount Snow Resort. This international competition includes snowcross; snowmobiling; freeskiing; snowboarding and snow mountain bike racing.

Vermont claims America’s first public hiking trail, built on Mount Ascutney in 1825. The state also boasts a hiking trail, the Long Trail, traveling the spine of the Green Mountains from top to bottom.

Vermont’s lakes and ponds have public access areas where boat and canoe rentals are available. Fishing is very popular here, especially in the Northern Kingdom where peaceful and untouched areas provide perfect fishing conditions. Licenses are available from fishing sporting goods shops.

Vermont’s secondary roads are great for bike riding. There are also leisurely bike trails along the Burlington or Stowe recreation paths. The thousands of miles of dirt tracks are ideal for those wishing to go mountain biking.

Horse-riding is a must if you ride. Hack around the many trails and paths to take in the sights and sounds of the state.