Are you interested in science and technology? If so, a trip to the Montshire Museum of Science should be in your plans! This hands-on museum is located in Norwich, Vermont and features more than 140 exhibits relating to the natural and physical sciences. It’s one of the busiest museums in New England and has attracted more than a million visitors since its opening in 1976! Here are some of the things you’ll see at the Montshire.
Learn more about the Montshire Museum of Science when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of recommendations for activities and attractions near GetAway Vacations!
Explore the Montshire Museum of Science
1. Live Animals
One of the most popular exhibits at the Montshire Museum of Science is the Creatures Exhibit. Here, visitors can admire a variety of creatures from the past and present – from native fish and turtles to a live colony of honeybees. You’ll learn information about the life processes that connect these animals with birds, insects, and even human beings.
2. Air & Weather
A gentle summer breeze, a hurricane over the Atlantic, billowing cumulous clouds – all are caused by the movement of air. Find out more about how air moves in this series of exhibits about air movement and weather. You can discover the lowest temperature ever recorded in the United States at the 109 Degrees Below Zero exhibit, then check out the Dust Devil sculpture. Don’t forget to spin the propeller to create a mini tornado! Click here to view the full list of air & weather exhibits.
3. Puzzles, Shapes, and Things That Move
Can you solve a puzzle based on how shapes fit together? In this set of exhibits about movement, machines, and geometry, you’ll find out how unique objects and mind-bending puzzles can stretch your thought processes. Some of the most popular exhibits include the gear train, the gravity well, and the time machine.
4. Outdoor Exhibits
Located on an 110-acre site near the Connecticut River, the Museum’s outdoor environment is a large part of the visitor experience. Guests are invited to explore the outdoor Science Park which includes a scale model of the solar system (Pluto is located a two-mile walk away) as well as various exhibits on light, sound, and motion. You can even stroll through the Woodland Garden and along nature trails bordering the river. It’s a great way to learn about Vermont’s native plants and environment!
5. Daily Programs
The Montshire offers a range of programs, activities, and special events for visitors of all ages. Each is designed to engage your mind and your senses! Special events are held throughout the year including Machine Madness, Igloo Build, and the Annual Egg Drop Contest. Most daily activities are free with Museum admission. The museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
The Montshire Museum of Science is about an hour from Killington and is a great place to visit during your stay with us! After your trip, come home to one of our gorgeous vacation rentals and unwind. We offer a wide range of homes for every occasion, group size, and budget – from comfortable townhomes to spacious chalets. View our properties page to see what’s available and contact us today to book your stay. We look forward to having you!
Find out how you can enhance your trip to VT with one of our vacation packages.
If you have an affinity for glassware and pottery, chances are you’ve heard of Simon Pearce. This prominent Irish-American designer creates gorgeous pieces for everyday use. He’s worked with notable glassmakers all over Europe and even opened a U.S. factory in Quechee, Vermont. Situated on the scenic Ottauquechee River, the Simon Pearce flagship store offers a restaurant, bar, and a demonstration facility. Here’s why attending a Simon Pearce glassblowing event should be on your vacation itinerary.
Learn more about Simon Pearce glassblowing when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of recommendations for fun things to do during your stay at GetAway Vacations!
How to Enjoy a Simon Pearce Glassblowing Workshop
Visit the Store
The Simon Pearce glass factory offers frequent glassblowing demonstrations for guests. Visitors can watch from the sidelines as master blowers create vases, candlesticks, bowls, and more. The first step is to gather the glass out of a 2,000-degree furnace, then pass it through a wooden tool called a block. The blowers breathe life into the glass before setting it in a mold. Even more fascinating is that the entire operation is run by hydropower; a waterfall in the river provides power for the glass furnaces as well as electricity for the facility.
On April 1, 2017, the shop held a “Meet the Makers” event where visitors could watch potters throw vases from the charming Crystalline collection. Also included was a complimentary cheese tasting and handcrafted liquors from Caledonia Spirits. Be sure to check the Simon Pearce Facebook page for more information on upcoming events! The store is open Monday – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Check Out the Restaurant & Bar
Did you know that The Mill at Simon Pearce was voted one of “America’s Most Romantic Restaurants” by Travel + Leisure? Dining at the Mill is the perfect way to experience Simon Pearce’s handmade glassware and pottery after watching it come to life at the workshop. This eatery serves up creative American cuisine for brunch, lunch, and dinner with a beautiful backdrop of the river’s waterfall and covered bridge. It’s a beloved go-to for special occasions and casual lunches alike.
Don’t forget to stop by the bar before or after your meal. You’ll find a great selection of local beer, wine, and cocktails as well as some delicious small plates. Cheers!
Book Your Stay in Vermont with GetAway Vacations
Less than an hour from Quechee is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Vermont: Killington. This beautiful mountain town is the perfect place to unwind, and our homes have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Book your stay at Mountain Green Resort and enjoy access to the slopes right across the street, or stay on the mountain in one of our Sunrise Village rentals. Each boasts a convenient location, luxurious amenities, and beautiful natural surroundings. View our properties page to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We can’t wait to hear about your Simon Pearce glassblowing experience!
Find out how you can enhance your trip to Vermont with one of our vacation packages.
Whether you live or play in Vermont, residents and visitors alike all seem to share a sense of adventure. Our beautiful state offers everything from skiing in the winter season to bungee jumping in the summer! While there are plenty of fun things to do, we highly recommend taking a hike. Picturesque mountain views and crisp New England air make each trek unforgettable. Here are some of our favorite Green Mountain hiking trails to explore.
Learn more about Green Mountain hiking trails when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of recommendations for fun things to do during your stay with GetAway Vacations.
Top 4 Green Mountain Hiking Trails
1. Hiking at Killington
Killington Adventure Center offers 15 miles of designated trails that venture to and from the mountain’s peak. These trails range in difficulty and length, making them suitable for a variety of ability levels. Easy trails are relatively short (under two miles) and only have a few pitches. Moderate trails are around three miles in length and climb continuously uphill, with few places to rest. Difficult trails tend to be longer than three miles and have steep vertical climbs exceeding 1,500 feet. Be sure to bring some water and a snack!
2. Mount Equinox Trail
Looking for a challenge? Try the difficult 6.6-mile Mount Equinox Trail in Green Mountain National Forest. Mount Equinox is the highest peak in the Taconic Range, but its gorgeous views are worth the uphill climb. You’ll even see a variety of beautiful wildflowers along the way. This trail is open year-round.
3. The Long Trail
The Long Trail is known as Vermont’s “footpath in the wilderness.” It’s the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States and follows the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont line all the way to the Canadian border. With almost 400 miles of rugged terrain, streams, ponds, and hardwood forests, hikers will love this world-class trail.
4. Bucklin Trail
Panoramic views of the Green Mountains await on the Bucklin Trail. This 7.2-mile route goes straight up to Killington Peak and is moderately difficult. Start on the blue-blazed Bucklin Trail and follow it for 3.3 miles all the way to the junction with the Long Trail and the Appalachian Trail. Turn right and follow the white-blazed LT/AT for just 0.1 mile, then turn left onto Killington Spur. This will take you to the summit. Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see the Adirondacks in New York and the White Mountains in New Hampshire!
Pro Tip: The best time to hit any of the Green Mountain trails mentioned above is between May and October. Because of melting snow, mud can become worse on the trails in the early spring and fall.
Book Your Stay With GetAway Vacations
Now that you know about the best Green Mountain hiking trails, let us help you book your trip to Vermont! Our luxurious vacation rentals are located right here in Killington and have everything you need for a memorable getaway. Soak in your own private hot tub, curl up in front of the fireplace, or take a dip in the pool. Each of our accommodations provides peace and tranquility to help you rest up for another day of adventure. We look forward to having you!
Interested in taking a guided hike?
Check out our Green Mountain hiking packages! Don’t forget to check out our amazing vacation rentals here!
No summer vacation in Vermont is complete without a trip to Tweed River Tubing. Situated on the White River in Stockbridge, VT, this tube rental company is perfect for those who want to beat the heat. Cars with Massachusetts and Connecticut license plates come in droves to spend the day floating down the river, with lush forests and looming mountain peaks as a backdrop. Here’s why an adventure with Tweed River Tubing should be on your Vermont to-do list.
Learn more about Tweed River Tubing when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of recommendations for fun things to do during your stay with GetAway Vacations.
How to Experience Tweed River Tubing
About the Owner
Chad Merriss grew up tubing on the White River. He had dreamt about running a tubing company for years, and when he was told that Vermont Tubing Company was closing, he decided to make that dream a reality. Vermont Tubing didn’t shut its doors after all, but Merriss still went forward with his plan and established Tweed River Tubing in the summer of 2011. The two companies have been coexisting peacefully ever since.
Today, Tweed River Tubing is a Stockbridge hot spot where visitors and locals come to drift lazily down the river. On the hottest days, Tweed River sells more than 100 tubes. Merriss even accompanies guests as a special tour guide if he’s heading out for an end-of-the-day sweep of the river.
Tips For Your Trip
Located at the junction of Route 100 and 107, Tweed River offers the best tubes in Vermont as well as the most fun stretch of river. They even provide life jackets, paddles, and a free shuttle back to the start point. Below are a few tips to ensure that your day on the water goes smoothly.
- Upon arrival, park your car in the field out back and drive slowly. Be sure to watch for children and pets!
- You’ll need to sign a waiver stating that you are responsible for yourself and your belongings. To save time, consider downloading a printable PDF of the waiver beforehand and bringing it with you.
- We highly recommend wearing strappy sandals, water shoes, or another form of footwear that is secured to your feet. Flip flops may get lost!
- Refrain from bringing any glass bottles or containers as they can damage tubes and pollute the river.
Pricing & Hours
Tweed River Tubing offers tubing adventures from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily. Tubes are $18 Tuesday through Sunday and are just $15 on Monday. There are also special discounts for groups over 12. Call (802) 746-8977 for more information.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
After an unforgettable Tweed River Tubing excursion, head back to one of our Killington vacation rentals and unwind! Our properties are just a short drive from the river and provide unparalleled lodging in the Green Mountain State. Spend a cool summer night in one of our relaxing hot tub rentals, or enjoy the luxurious amenities at Mountain Green Resort. We even have pet-friendly properties for your furbaby! View our accommodations to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
Looking for more Killington summer activities? Read our blog!
Did you know that the Crowley Cheese Company is the oldest indigenous manufacturer of cheese in the United States? The factory was built in Mt Holly, Vermont in 1882, and it’s delicious dairy began to reach the shores of Maine and the streets of Manhattan soon after. Now visitors can take a Crowley Cheese factory tour and watch as the award-winning cheese is made by hand – just as it was over a hundred years ago. Read on for details!
Learn more about the Crowley Cheese Factory when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of information on great places to visit during your stay with GetAway Vacations.
Experience a Crowley Cheese Factory Tour
1. Learn the History
The Crowley Cheese Company was founded by Winfield Crowley and was owned by the family for 85 years. The Crowley’s had already begun making cheese at their farm but wanted a place to store surplus milk from other area farmers. The milk would then be turned into cheese and sold at the Healdville, VT railroad depot.
Today, the factory produces a wide range of cheeses in mild, medium sharp, sharp, and extra shop varieties. It also comes in a myriad of flavors. (Garlic, fresh chive and hot pepper are just a few of our favorites!) The cheese is made with fresh, unpasteurized milk from a local farm, and unlike mass-produced cheese, no two batches are the same. Crowley also uses a rinsed curd process that results in a cheese that is creamier and sweeter than Vermont cheddar. It melts better, too!
2. Watch the Cheesemaking Process
Making cheese by hand takes time, and the cheesemakers at the Crowley Factory start first thing in the morning. You’ll see a different part of the process depending on when you arrive. Only a few hundred pounds of cheese are made each day, and the process remains exactly as it was when the factory was established. There is no automatic stirring equipment or any other such devices.
Note: Crowley usually makes cheese three days a week and the schedule can be variable. We suggest calling the factory at (800) 683-2606 before your visit.
3. Taste the Difference
Crowley cheese is delicious, but don’t just take our word for it! You can try some of the freshest cheese available right in the factory’s gift shop. Many Vermont foods and craft items are available here as well. Gift shop hours are Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
After your Crowley Cheese factory tour, head back to one of our Killington vacation rentals and unwind! Our properties are just a stone’s throw from the factory and provide unparalleled lodging in the Green Mountain State. Book your stay in one of our convenient ski on/ski off rentals, or enjoy the luxurious amenities at Mountain Green Resort. We even have pet-friendly properties for your furbaby! View our accommodations to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations.
Want to learn more about VT’s famous cheese?
Read our blog about the Vermont Cheese Trail!
Are you an ameteur skier looking to show off your skills? Consider competing in the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge! This highly anticipated event returns to Killington, Vermont in April and is one of the hottest on-snow parties the East Coast has to offer. The competition will heat up as skiers take to the slopes of Outer Limits to battle for a place in the finals. Whether you want to participate or prefer to watch from the beer garden, the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge will be an event you’ll never forget! Here are some things to know before you go.
Learn more about the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of information on fun things to do during your stay with GetAway Vacations!
Experience the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge
Competition Details
Mogul skiing is a freestyle skiing competition consisting of one timed run on a steep, heavily moguled course. On Saturday, April 8, 2017, competitors will head to the Outer Limits Trail at Killington Resort. Each participant will have one run before the top 32 men and 16 women compete in a sudden-death, dual-course challenge. Awards will be presented to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place winners, and their names will be engraved on the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge trophy.
Judging
The purpose of the Mogul Challenge is to recognize technical superiority and athletic ability. Males and females are scored separately in each age group, and each judge can award a maximum of five points for well-executed turns, aerial maneuvers, and speed.
Tips & Rules
- The Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge is an amateur competition. No USSA members registered as competitors will be allowed to race.
- Each participant must wear a properly fastened snow sports helmet during the competition.
- Be sure to scope out the course/venue before the event.
- Know your skill and ability level. This isn’t the time to try something you’ve never done before!
Registration
Registration for the 2017 Mogul Challenge will be open to the first 150 registrants. The competition fills up fast, so we recommend pre-registering to guarantee your spot! The entry fee is $50 for all divisions and online pre-registration will remain open until April 5, 2017 at 5 p.m. Click here to register.
Note: All competitors must check-in at the 3rd floor of Bear Mountain Lodge between 7 and 8:30 a.m. on Saturday to pick up their bibs.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
Now that you know all about the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge, it’s time to start planning your trip to Vermont! Our luxurious rentals have everything you need to relax after the race, and they’re all just minutes from the slopes. Enjoy amenities like comfortable bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and spacious living areas throughout your stay. We even offer a number of vacation specials and packages to help you save on lodging! View our properties page to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
Looking for more events to attend?
Read our blog about the Vermont Maple Festival in April!
Photo Credit: Karl Weatherly | Getty Images
It’s no secret that vacationing with children can be a bit hectic. It’s virtually impossible to keep the entire family entertained all day long! Luckily, the scenic mountain town of Killington, VT offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From zip lining in the summer to snowmobiling in the winter, there are plenty of fun things to do with kids in Killington, Vermont. Here are some of our favorites.
Learn more about things to do with kids in Killington, Vermont when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of information that will make your stay with GetAway Vacations unforgettable.
Top 5 Things to Do with Kids in Killington, Vermont
1. Explore the Adventure Center
A trip to the Killington Adventure Center is a quintessential part of any summer vacation in Killington. A one-day pass gives you access to a wide range of attractions including the Beast Mountain Coaster, Skye Bounce, Terra-Maze, scenic chairlift, and more. The Adventure Center is located at Snowshed Base Lodge on Killington Mountain.
2. Sign Up for a Youth Program
Do you have an aspiring skier in your family? You’re in luck! Killington strives to inspire lifelong skiers and riders by offering a safe and fun snow sports community. All children’s programs are held at the Ramshead Family Center where you’ll find easily accessible drop-off zones, two Magic Carpet lifts, and an extensive trail network of novice and intermediate terrain. Call (800) 923-9444 for reservations.
3. Take a Snowmobile Tour
Specially designed for winter travel and outdoor recreation, snowmobiling is a great way to enjoy fresh powder. Snowmobile Vermont is one of the oldest snowmobile tour operators in the state and offers a thrilling kid’s tour right here in Killington. On this one-hour mountain tour, your children can enjoy a scenic ride on a new Polaris kid’s snowmobile called the Indy 120 XC. Kids are crazy about the look and sound of this awesome machine!
4. Visit the Killington Arts Guild
Let your child’s imagination run wild at the Killington Arts Guild. Founded in 1998 by artists and art lovers, this facility teaches adults and children to think, imagine, and grow. Visitors can attend a variety of programs and workshops including painting classes, artist shows, and more. Check out their online events calendar for details.
5. Put the Little Ones in Daycare
If you need a few hours to yourself, Killington Resort offers day care year-round. Daily and weekly rates are available, and the resort supplies all table food, milk, juice, sleeping cribs, and toys/games. Call (802) 422-6222 for more information.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
Now that you know about the best things to do with kids in Killington, Vermont, it’s time to start planning your trip! Our luxurious rentals have everything you need for a fun family vacation, including comfortable bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, and spacious living areas. We even offer vacation specials and packages to help you save on lodging! View our properties page to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
Looking for a family-friendly event to attend?
Read our blog about the Vermont Maple Festival!
Did you know that the Vermont Maple Festival has been a staple in St. Albans, VT for more than 50 years? It’s held on the last weekend in April and features a wide range of events and attractions dedicated to – you guessed it – maple syrup. Pure Vermont Maple Syrup is a hot commodity across the country, and the three-day Maple Festival is the perfect place to try it! Here are some things you should know before you go.
Learn more about the Vermont Maple Festival when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of recommendations for fun things to do during your stay with GetAway Vacations!
Spend a Day at the Vermont Maple Festival
Kid-Friendly Carnival
The Vermont Maple Festival is a wonderful event for the whole family. If you’re traveling with kids, take them to the carnival at the District Courthouse parking lot on Lake Street. Little ones will love riding the carousel, and visitors of all ages can check out the adult rides. Don’t forget to test your skills on the classic boardwalk-style games!
Maple Festival Grand Parade
Floats, horses, marching bands, and fire trucks make their way down Main Street during the Maple Festival’s Grand Parade. Guests can stroll the sidewalk and browse a variety of food and beverage stands as the parade goes by.
Maple Syrup & Products Contest
The Maple Syrup Festival boasts the largest maple contest in Vermont. Here, sugarmakers from across the state compete for the prestigious “Best of Vermont” award. Each syrup is judged on its thickness, clarity, color, density, and flavor, and is carefully evaluated by an experienced panel. Other products like maple sugar cakes and maple cream are also judged.
Pancake Breakfast
Of course, the best part about the Vermont Maple Festival is tasting the syrup. At the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, guests can munch on light, fluffy pancakes, maple sausages, and local Cabot cheese – all dripping with ooey, gooey maple syrup. This event takes place at the City Elementary School on Bellows Street.
Sap Run
On your mark, get set, go! The annual Sap Run is held on the last day of the festival and is an awesome event for experienced runners and beginners alike. If you don’t want to trek all 8.5 miles on your own, feel free to grab a friend and partner up for a relay run. Winners receive a bottle of deliciously sweet Pure Vermont Maple Syrup after the sprint.
Maple Store
Don’t forget to visit the Vermont Maple Store before you leave the festival. This gift shop has a wonderful assortment of products including fudge, cookies, popcorn, salad dressing, and more. And they all feature Pure Vermont Maple Syrup as an ingredient! You can also pick up clothing items and souvenirs to bring home with you.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
Now that you know about the Vermont Maple Festival, it’s time to start planning your getaway! Our luxurious rentals have everything you need for a fun family vacation, including comfortable rooms, gourmet kitchens, and spacious living areas. We even offer a number of specials and packages to help you save on your trip! View our accommodations to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
Looking for more fun things to do?
Read our blog about the Vermont Cheese Trail!
Killington, Vermont is famous for its snow-covered winters. But did you know that summertime often steals the show? Warm, breezy days and cool, clear nights make this mountain town perfect for a family getaway. From hiking and biking to sightseeing and shopping, the list of Killington summer activities is endless! Here are just a few of our favorites.
Learn more about Killington summer activities when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of recommendations for fun things to do during your stay with GetAway Vacations!
Top 4 Killington Summer Activities
1. Hiking & Biking
Once the snow has melted, there’s no shortage of great places to mountain bike in Vermont. Our region’s bike trails are surrounded by rolling hills, farms, and lakes, providing an ideal backdrop for cyclists. Feel free to rent a bike and take a guided tour, or pick up a trail map and head out on your own. You can even join the Killington Pico Cycling Club (KPCC) and enjoy club rides each week from April to October! Visit the KPCC website to become a member.
If cycling isn’t your thing, don’t worry! There are plenty of Green Mountain hiking trails to explore. Killington Mountain offers 15 miles of designated trails for guests who want to hike to or from the mountain’s peak. Each route ranges in difficulty and length, making them suitable for a variety of ability levels.
2. Golf
Looking for a great place to practice your swing? Head to the golf course at Killington Resort. This 18-hole championship course was developed by Geoffrey Cornish and is one of the nicest in the United States. It even has a full-size pro shop on site! With a 2,000-foot elevation and incredible views, Killington Golf Course provides an unforgettable golf experience.
3. Killington Adventure Center
A trip to the Killington Adventure Center is perfect for a fun day out with the family. From bungee jumping and disc golf to a terra-maze and obstacle course, this facility is a must-see on your next summer vacation. Kids can search for treasure at Roaring Brook Mining while parents enjoy a relaxing, scenic ride on the K-1 Express Gondola.
4. Water Sports
When it’s time to cool off, head to Snowshed Pond in Killington and spend the day fishing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. The pond is accessible by both hiking and bike trails, and fishing is allowed from the shore around the pond. Swimming is not permitted. You can also check out Kent Pond, which is located just five minutes from Snowshed and is a bit larger. Both offer incredible views of Killington Peak so bring your camera!
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations
Now that you know about the best Killington summer activities, it’s time to start planning your getaway to Vermont! Our luxurious vacation rentals have everything you need for an action-packed summer, including outdoor fire pits, grills, private hot tubs, and more. We even offer a variety of specials and packages to help you save on your trip! View our accommodations to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
Looking for more fun things to do this summer?
Read our blog about fishing Otter Creek in VT! Click here to learn more about our amazing vacation rentals!
Photo Credit: PhyllisMeredithPhotography | Thinkstock
Flowing 112 miles from Green Mountain National Forest to Lake Champlain, Otter Creek is Vermont’s longest river. It’s an unbelievably diverse watershed that attracts fisherman from far and wide. Seven top spill dams offer great wading opportunities, and the creek’s mixed fishery allows you to target many different species. Whether you’re an avid angler or have never cast a line, fishing Otter Creek, VT is an exciting and fun way to spend an afternoon! Here are some things you should you know about the river.
Learn more about fishing Otter Creek, VT when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of recommendations for outdoor activities to enjoy during your stay with GetAway Vacations.
Spend a Day Fishing Otter Creek, VT
Upper Otter Creek
The upper section of Otter Creek is brook trout water. Several streams flowing from the Green Mountains and the Taconic Mountain ranges form this section, and most of the streams are spring fed. These tributaries have excellent stream-bred trout reproduction and are also stocked by the state of Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department.
Mid to Lower Otter Creek
Lower Otter Creek is an interesting mixed fishery that starts in Rutland and flows north through Middlebury and Vergennes. Much of this section is inhabited by warm water species such as northern pike, smallmouth bass, and fallfish. It also offers some of the best winter trout fishing in Vermont. Be sure to check the fishing conditions before you head out.
When to Fish
Ask anyone about the best time to enjoy fishing Otter Creek, VT, and you’ll likely hear “anytime!” If you’re looking for trout, we recommend visiting in the spring. May is an especially exciting month because the fish feed on bugs on the surface of the water. Summer is also a great time to catch northern pike, large or smallmouth bass, or carp. Autumn can be fun because it’s technical and the water is low, and a mild winter in Vermont means the fish will stay active. Otter Creek is open for fishing year-round.
Attend The Otter Creek Classic
Want to try your hand at competitive fly fishing? Sign up for The Otter Creek Classic! This catch-and-release tournament is held in April and is the first event of its kind in the state of Vermont. It includes two days of fishing, a post-tournament BBQ, and an awards ceremony. All profits from The Classic are donated to the New Haven River Anglers Association.
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations!
When searching for the perfect place to call home in Vermont, look no further than our gorgeous lakefront properties. Kamp Koby is a great place to unwind and is set on Lake Hortonia in the Vermont Lake Region. Swimming and fishing are just steps away from the camp, and there’s a country store nearby for snacks. Or book your stay in our Butternut Hill vacation rental which sits on 20 acres near Lake St. Catherine. This two bedroom condo has an open floor plan and offers beautiful views from the back deck. Guests have access to a community fire pit, private walking trails, and an outdoor pool. Check our availability and book your stay today!
Enhance your stay in Vermont with one of our awesome vacation packages!
The Beast Mountain Coaster in Killington, Vermont is exactly what it sounds like – a total beast of a roller coaster! Open year round at Killington Resort, this thrill ride is fun for visitors of all ages. The 4,800-foot-long alpine coaster twists and turns through the woods, offering 360-degree corkscrews that are sure to surprise and delight. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a child-toting parent, “The Beast” is perfect for an afternoon of fun. Here are some things you should know about the ride.
Learn more about the Beast Mountain Coaster and other local attractions when you download our free vacation guide! It’s full of recommendations for fun things to do during your stay with GetAway Vacations.
Take a Ride on the Beast Mountain Coaster
Summer Thrills
If you’re planning to visit in the summer, you’re in for a treat! You can experience the Beast Mountain Coaster in beautiful summer weather. You’ll shoot through green trees and down grassy hills, all while wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Plus, you’ll be right next to the Killington Resort Adventure Center which features awesome summer attractions like bungee jumping, a ropes course, and a 5,000-square-foot maze. Be sure to check it out!
Winter Thrills
Riding the Beast Mountain Coaster in the winter gives you the chance to fly down the mountain in a completely different way. Take a break from skiing or snowboarding to enjoy the coaster, then try other winter activities like snowmobiling, tubing, or fat tire biking.
High-Speed Thrills
One of the best parts about The Beast is that you control your speed. Are you a full-speed-ahead kind of person? Go full throttle! If you prefer to have a little more control, no problem. Simply hit the brakes whenever you feel uncomfortable.
Single or Double Thrills
If you’re looking for adventures you can do as a couple, the Beast Mountain Coaster is fun to ride together. You can even take turns controlling the brakes. But if you’d rather go it alone (or if your significant other wants to go slower than you), you can go right after each other and watch the other person ride.
Children must be at least 36” to ride the Beast Mountain Coaster, and riders less than 52” must ride with an adult. Take your kids for the ride of their lives or let them head out alone!
Nearby Thrills
We’ve already mentioned some seasonal thrills like bungee jumping and snowmobiling. But if you’re looking for even more fun, you’ve got to check out the SkyeRide. This ski lift/zip line combination takes you zipping along at a comfortable 30 miles per hour. It has seats for two and is perfect for couples or parents and kids!
Book Your Stay with GetAway Vacations!
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Killington, Vermont is the place for you! In addition to the thrilling Beast Mountain Coaster, we have some of the best skiing in the country and any outdoor activity you can imagine. When it’s time to relax, simply head back to one of our Killington vacation rentals and unwind. Our beautiful homes have amenities like jacuzzi bathtubs, fireplaces, full kitchens, and more! View our accommodations to see what’s available and contact us today to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!
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Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Plan to visit the Thundering Falls Trail in Killington, VT! Part of the Vermont Appalachian Trail, Thundering Falls is an easy hike on a 0.4-mile boardwalk that leads to one of the tallest waterfalls in Vermont. From a viewing platform, visitors can watch in awe as the water cascades through a steep and narrow cataract. It’s a spectacular sight to behold! Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, a trip to Thundering Falls will leave you with lasting memories. Here are some things you should know about the trail.
Find out more about the Thundering Falls Trail when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of information on the best places to visit during your stay with GetAway Vacations!
Your Guide to the Thundering Falls Trail
The Thundering Falls Trail is the first and only universally-accessible portion of the Appalachian Trail in Vermont. Built by the Green Mountain Club, this 900-foot boardwalk gets rid of a dusty road walk on Thundering Brook Road, adds great views of the Ottauquechee Valley and the falls, and makes a stretch of the Appalachian Trail available to people who use wheelchairs. Click here to view a trail map.
About the Falls
At 140 feet, Thundering Falls is the sixth tallest waterfall in the state. It’s part of Kent Brook which flows out of Kent Pond, just north of where the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail split. At high water, Thundering Falls offers a magnificent cascade as the stream tumbles to the ground. The falls are also the site of a historic mill that’s powered by the energy of the falling water. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
How To Get There
From the Appalachian Trail: Starting from the River Road parking area, the Appalachian Trail passes through open Ottauquechee River floodplain and crosses the Thundering Falls boardwalk. The trail then ascends to the falls viewing platform. From here, the Appalachian Trail continues its ascent through northern hardwood forest to Thundering Brook Road where a small parking lot can be found.
From GetAway Vacations: From the intersection of Vermont Route 100 and Route 4 in Killington, drive two miles east to the River Road intersection. Drive another 1.5 miles until you see the wheelchair-accessible parking lot on the left.
Plan an Incredible Trip to Vermont with GetAway Vacations!
After an adventure on the Thundering Falls Trail, head back to one of our Killington vacation rentals and relax! Our comfortable and luxurious properties are just minutes from the trail and have everything you need to unwind. New to hiking? We offer guided hikes in the summertime lead by Killington Mountain Guides! You’ll learn how to pack a backpack properly as well as some basic land navigation. Hikes generally last between one and four hours and are appropriate for guests of skill levels. Call us at (802) 438-8077 to learn more. We look forward to having you!
Looking for more great places to explore?
Read our blog about the best Killington hiking trails!
Photo Credit: NorthHatley | Getty Images