Montpelier, Vermont — Spring break travel across Vermont often arrives while much of the state is still experiencing late-winter weather.
Snow can remain on mountain slopes well into March and early April, and overnight temperatures frequently dip below freezing. Because of that, many Vermont residents and visitors plan spring break trips around ski resorts, mountain towns, scenic drives, and food destinations rather than traditional warm-weather tourism.
Here are 12 destinations across Vermont often considered for in-state spring break travel.
Late-Season Ski Destinations
1. Stowe Mountain Resort (Stowe)
Stowe is one of Vermont’s best-known ski destinations and frequently sees strong conditions well into spring. Visitors travel to the area for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain lodging, while the nearby village offers restaurants, shops, and scenic views of Mount Mansfield.
2. Killington Resort (Killington)
Killington is one of the largest ski resorts in the eastern United States and is often known for having one of the longest seasons. Spring skiing events and extended lift operations can keep the resort active into April.
3. Sugarbush Resort (Warren)
Sugarbush offers two mountain areas and a range of terrain for skiers and snowboarders. The surrounding Mad River Valley is also known for scenic drives and small-town restaurants.
4. Jay Peak Resort (Jay)
Located near the Canadian border, Jay Peak is known for heavy snowfall totals during the winter season. The resort also features an indoor water park and lodging, making it a destination for families and spring travelers.
Scenic Mountain Towns
5. Woodstock
Woodstock is known for its historic village center, covered bridges, and walkable downtown. Visitors often explore nearby farms, shops, and small inns during early spring.
6. Manchester
Manchester sits in southern Vermont and is known for outlet shopping, restaurants, and nearby mountain scenery. The town also provides access to outdoor recreation areas and scenic routes.
7. Middlebury
Middlebury offers a classic New England college-town atmosphere with restaurants, bookstores, and historic buildings. The town is also near several hiking areas and scenic drives.
Outdoor Destinations
8. Smugglers’ Notch
Smugglers’ Notch offers mountain scenery and access to outdoor recreation areas in northern Vermont. The winding mountain pass is a well-known scenic route once it reopens after winter conditions.
9. Lake Champlain (Burlington Area)
Lake Champlain attracts visitors to Burlington’s waterfront parks, walking paths, and restaurants. While early spring temperatures can still be cool, the city remains one of Vermont’s busiest travel destinations.
10. Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest covers large areas of central and southern Vermont. Visitors often explore scenic drives, forest trails, and wildlife viewing areas across the region.
City and Cultural Stops
11. Burlington
Burlington, Vermont’s largest city, offers restaurants, breweries, and waterfront views along Lake Champlain. Church Street Marketplace remains one of the most active pedestrian shopping districts in the state.
12. Montpelier
Montpelier, the state capital, features historic buildings, local restaurants, and small shops in a compact downtown area. Visitors often explore the Vermont State House and nearby parks.
Travel planners say short in-state trips remain especially popular with students, young workers, and families looking for affordable travel without long-distance flights.
With winter weather lingering across the Green Mountains, many Vermont spring break trips focus on ski resorts, mountain towns, and scenic drives through the state’s rural landscapes.
