As winter's icy grip loosens and nature awakens, there's a unique beauty to be found in Southwestern Vermont's Shires during the spring season. Known affectionately as mud season, this transitional period may deter some travelers, but for those willing to embrace the elements, it offers an authentic and enchanting experience like no other.
Embracing mud season means immersing yourself in the essence of rural life. Take a leisurely stroll along country roads lined with historic farmhouses and blooming wildflowers. Explore charming towns like Manchester and Bennington, where local artisans showcase their craft in quaint shops and galleries. Indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences, savoring the fresh flavors of the season's bounty.
For outdoor enthusiasts, mud season presents unique opportunities for adventure. Strap on your boots and hit the trails, where melting snow and rain create a natural playground for hiking and exploring. Traverse wooded paths adorned with budding trees and cascading waterfalls, and don't be afraid to get a little muddy along the way – after all, it's all part of the experience!
As the day winds down, retreat to a cozy inn or bed-and-breakfast, where crackling fires and warm hospitality await. Sip on a locally brewed craft beer or cider, and recount the day's adventures with fellow travelers. Then, settle in for a restful night's sleep, serenaded by the soothing sounds of nature outside your window.
Here are some top locations to visit when visiting in the spring:
Bromley Mountain: Embrace the last of the winter sports season with spring skiing or snowboarding at Bromley Mountain Resort. Enjoy the softer snow conditions and fewer crowds as you carve down the slopes, taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Merck Forest Maple Weekend: Spring is showing itself, as sweet sap drips from our tapped maple trees and sugaring begins. Come and celebrate this time-honored Vermont tradition with us during our Maple Open House on Saturday, March 23, from 11a – 3p. Tapping and boiling demonstrations, storytelling, children’s activities, farm animals, and more await. Food available. $5 pp suggested donation
Bennington Museum: Delve into the rich history and culture of the region at the Bennington Museum in Bennington. Wander through exhibits showcasing Vermont's art, history, and heritage, including works by local artists and artifacts from the area's past.
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home: Visit the historic estate of Hildene, once the home of Abraham Lincoln's descendants. Tour the meticulously preserved mansion and stroll through the formal gardens, where early spring blooms add splashes of color to the landscape.
Arlington Green Covered Bridge: Experience a quintessential Vermont sight at the Arlington Green Covered Bridge, also known as the West Arlington Covered Bridge. This iconic structure, spanning the Batten Kill River, offers a picturesque backdrop for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Southern Vermont Arts Center: Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Southwestern Vermont at the Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester. Explore rotating exhibitions featuring works by local and regional artists, or participate in workshops and events to unleash your own creativity.
Robert Frost Stone House Museum: Pay homage to one of America's most beloved poets at the Robert Frost Stone House Museum in Shaftsbury. Wander through the poet's former home, where he penned many of his famous works, and stroll along the scenic nature trails that inspired his poetry.
Manchester Designer Outlets: Treat yourself to a day of shopping at the Manchester Designer Outlets, where you'll find an array of upscale boutiques and brand-name stores offering discounted prices on fashion, home goods, and more. Take advantage of mud season sales and refresh your wardrobe in style.
Lye Brook Falls Trail: Embark on a springtime hike to Lye Brook Falls, a stunning waterfall located near Manchester. Follow the trail as it meanders through lush forests and crosses babbling brooks, culminating in the breathtaking cascade of water tumbling over rocky cliffs.
Equinox Preserve & Pond: Explore the serene trails of the Equinox Preserve, located near Manchester. As the snow melts, the trails become accessible for hiking and wildlife spotting. Don't miss the picturesque Equinox Pond, reflecting the beauty of the surrounding forest.
Mile-Around Woods: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Mile-Around Woods, a pristine natural area located in North Bennington. This scenic woodland offers miles of hiking trails winding through diverse ecosystems, including towering hardwood forests and meandering streams. Take a leisurely stroll or pack a picnic and spend the day surrounded by the beauty of nature, listening to birdsong and breathing in the fresh spring air.
In Southwestern Vermont's Shires, mud season isn't just a passage between winter and spring – it's a time to embrace the rugged beauty of the landscape and the warmth of community. So, pack your sense of adventure and your waterproof boots, and discover the magic of mud season in this picturesque corner of New England.