Authored: Kenneth Reaves
The Shires of Southwestern Vermont (traditionally known as Bennington County or Southwestern Vermont region) is the perfect place to spend some quality time as a family. If you’re looking for somewhere that’s as beautiful as it is easy to socially-distance, then this is where you should be spending your next family vacation!
Nestled in between two spectacular mountains and criss-crossed by waterways, The Shires offers some unique and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you visit in spring, summer, fall or the dead of winter, there’s something to do to make memories.
Here are 5 thrilling socially-distanced adventures to enjoy with your family when in The Shires!
Go Horseback Riding
Explore the beautiful mountains, trails and country side on the back of a trusty steed. Horseback riding is an activity that the whole family can take part in during summer, fall, winter or spring.
It gets you out into the fresh air and nature, which will help to reduce your stress levels. You’ll still be able to practice social distancing while having fun with your loved ones. If you’re in The Shires, book a horseback ride with Kimberly Farms, where you’ll ride through a wooded wildlife preserve.
If you're lucky, you’ll be able to see some shy foxes, deer and wild birds.
A Family Fishing Trip
Book an overnight stay at the Dorset Inn, where you’ll be close to freshwater fishing opportunities. If you’re looking for a fly-fishing challenge, then head to the Battenkill river where you and your loved ones can try your hand at catching wild trout.
This will be an exciting opportunity for even the most seasoned of anglers, as there are many small pools and some deep runs. The trout in these streams are very selective when it comes to insects during different seasons, so anglers have to be creative with their lures.
While you may spot some trophy trout along the banks, it will take all your skill to get one to bite! Challenge your loved ones to see who can catch the trout of the day.
Get Up Close and Personal With Wild Birds
Book a weekend trip at The Equinox Golf Resort and Spa, as they have something to do for every member of the family. The hotel has taken every precaution to make sure that you and your loved ones remain safe, but you would need to wear your mask.
There is a very unique experience that you may want to request for your family, and that is getting up close and personal with hawks and falcons. You’ll be able to have the hawk rest on your arm and then watch it take flight. Check out the Green Mountain Falconry School, which operates May 1 through October 31, at the beautiful Boorn Brook Farm. Founded by master falconer Rob Waite, the school introduces visitors to the ancient field sport of falconry, raptor conservation, the falconers’ world and the birds themselves. From introductory lessons and Hawk Walks to handling and flying a trained Harris hawk, programs are private bookings, hands-on and appropriate for individuals and groups of all ages.
After spending time with the hawks, go sledding on the hill and work up everyone’s appetite before having lunch at the Marsh Tavern, a part of The Equinox Resort.
When you spot the Chief Happiness officer, Cooper, be sure to give him a scratch behind the ears. In return, Cooper will give you plenty of love.
A Stroll Through History
Visiting the Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, will take you back to the 20th century. Here you’re able to take a self-guided tour, which allows you to practise social distancing while experiencing history. A summer home for Robert Todd Lincoln, son of President Lincoln, Hildene exists to carry the values of Abraham Lincoln to future generations by educating and inspiring others to put those values into action.
Pack the family’s skis, as there’s still fresh snow and the trails around the house have been laid on some loops that will provide a great cross country ski opportunity! After all, how many people can say that they went skiing on Lincoln’s lawn?
Conclusion
These are just a few of the thrilling socially-distanced adventures to enjoy with your family when in The Shires! Even if you’d rather just spend a few days marveling at the gorgeous scenery instead of being out in it, you won’t find a more beautiful spot to do that.
One of the best things about this area is that you can visit year-round and find spectacular adventures no matter what time of year you arrive.
The range of activities you can do make it perfect for social distancing, too! Although The Shires is bustling with activity, having the Great Outdoors on your doorstep makes it easy to escape the crowds and spend some quality time with your loved ones.