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10 Things To Do In The Green Mountains: Exploring Vermont's Picturesque Region

Vermont's Green Mountains offer picturesque sights and so many things to do and explore.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque state of Vermont, the Green Mountains beckon travelers with their serene beauty and a wealth of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Stretching approximately 250 miles from the Massachusetts border to Quebec, these emerald peaks have a rich history and a vibrant present, offering something for everyone. Whether it's a hike in the mountains, a walk through nearby towns, or eating delicious natural foods, the Green Mountain Region of Vermont is one everybody should see while traveling in the area.

The Green Mountain Byway travels routes 100, 108, and 15, visiting the quaint and vibrant towns of Waterbury, Stowe, Morristown, Hyde Park, Johnson, and Cambridge, worth checking out. Of course, a quick detour is always a part of road-tripping, so this can become a week or even two-week-long vacation into nature. See what feels right! Fall brings the best hikes in Vermont , and the same applies to the Green Mountains.

Things To Do

When coming to the Green Mountains in Vermont, there are many things to see and do. From adventures to charming towns, this is a trip people won't forget. Luckily, we've searched plenty and have things to do, places to stay, and even food options to recommend.

Vermont's Lamoille Valley Rail Trail Offers Some Of The Most Scenic Bike Views In The State

1 stratton mountain resort.

• Address: 5 Village Lodge Rd, Stratton Mountain, VT 05155

Something fun to do while in the Green Mountains of Vermont is to stay or visit the Stratton Mountain Resort . Being near one of the more scenic landscapes in the area, this resort offers great dining, fun winter activities, and a luxury stay for anyone wanting that on their Vermont vacation.

The Stratton Mountain Resort boasts some of Vermont's best skiing, too!

2 Vermont State House

• Address: 115 State St, Montpelier, VT 05633
• Hours: Monday - Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM

For history buffs in the Green Mountains of Vermont, this area also hosts the Vermont State House , where all of the seats of the Vermont General Assembly. This is the state Capitol building, making it a great sight for everyone wanting a bit of legislative experience.

There are also guided tours through certain parts of the complex, which can be scheduled via the official website.

3 Deer Leap Trail

• Address: 139 US-4, Killington, VT 05751

Anyone in the mood for hiking in the Green Mountains of Vermont should consider Deer Leap Trail. This trail is a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail near Killington, Vermont, and has been said to be somewhat challenging to people.

For those who are not avid hikers, these mountains can be unforgiving, hence why we recommend bringing a hiking buddy (or many) and plenty of snacks, water, and a charged smartphone.

4 Prospect Rock Trail

• Address: 663 Rootville Rd, Manchester, VT 05255

The next trail to think about embarking on is the Prospect Rock Trail, a 3.1-mile out-and-back trail near Manchester Center, Vermont. This is another semi-challenging one for visitors to the state, so it's worth being more cautious when starting the journey. Many trails in the Green Mountains are rocky and can be slippery if wet.

5 Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

• Address: 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester, VT 05255
• Hours: Thursday - Monday from 10 AM to 4:30 PM

For those traveling to the Green Mountains, visiting the Lincoln Family Home (Hildene Estate) is a must-see in Vermont. Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, is the former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln and his wife, Mary Harlan Lincoln, and has become a national treasure for citizens and tourists alike.

This Hiking Trail Was Named For A Cryptid Native To Vermont's Green Mountains

6 north meadow farm.

• Address: 726 N Rd, Manchester Center, VT 05255
• Hours: Friday - Tuesday from 10 AM to 3 PM (open until 5 on Saturday)

The North Meadow Farm is yet another activity for Green Mountain tourists, boasting fresh cheese, raw milk, and eggs or visiting a petting farm. This is a great Vermont locally-owned business to support, and is great for the family. Children love it here, as do teens and adults.

7 Bennington Battle Monument

• Address: 15 Monument Cir, Bennington, VT 05201
• Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM

Another historical attraction in the area is the Bennington Battle Monument , which is 306 feet 4 and 1/2 inches tall and was completed and dedicated in 1891 to commemorate the battle fought there. The monument is open to the public, and there is parking nearby. This is a nice spot to find peace while on vacation to the state.

8 Appalachian Trail Adventures

• Address: 78 Weathervane Dr, Killington, VT 05751
• Hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM

For anyone wanting to do it all, heading over to Appalachian Trail Adventures is worth it. Here, guests of the Green Mountains can enjoy a hiking spa that provides daily guided hikes, caving, and kayaking throughout the Green Mountains of Vermont. Consider this one of the one-stop shops for sightseeing and adventure in the area.

9 Bennington Museum

• Address: 75 Main St, Bennington, VT 05201
• Hours: Thursday - Tuesday from 10 AM to 4 PM
• Tickets: $15 per adult & $12 per student and senior

Another place to check out while in Vermont is the Bennington Museum. The museum's history dates to 1852, when the Bennington Historical Association was first incorporated, making it the perfect spot to experience the past.

It's also only $15 per adult ticket and then $12 for students and seniors. This is a nice place to get out of the mountains and into the past while in Vermont.

10 Mt. Horrid And The Great Cliff

• Address: Mendon, Vermont 05701

Another natural scene to explore in the Green Mountains is Mt. Horrid and The Great Cliff, which boasts stunning views of the rest of the area and a nice hike for tourists.

Here, people can hike this 2.1-mile out-and-back trail near Goshen, Vermont, and see trees, animals, and the blue sky above as long as their heart desires.

• This hike is moderately challenging.

11 Best Time To Visit The Green Mountains In Vermont

• Best Time To Come: Fall (for leaves) or Winter (for skiing)

Regarding the best time to visit the Green Mountain Region of Vermont, fall is one of the most beautiful times to encounter it . With leaves changing from late August through October, the Green Mountains beckon travelers from near and far.

• Many people use leaf trackers on their phones so they can catch the leaves at the perfect time while hiking .

Winter is another popular time here, as skiing becomes the topic of every conversation. There are a few notable resorts here offering slope time, so keep that in mind when booking. It's always best to stay near a mountain during ski season in the Green Mountains.

12 Best Ways To Get Around The Green Mountains

• Best Ways Around: Renting a car or hotel shuttle system.

When it comes to getting around Vermont and the Green Mountain area, a car is what we recommend to travelers. Most times, hotel shuttles only run to and from town or the airport, with very few going to specific parks and hiking trails.

Therefore, those wanting to adventure through the region should rent a vehicle. Rideshare may be available in the surrounding towns, but again: that isn't always a fool-proof option. Having a car to yourself is one of the better ways to get around such a remote mountain range.

10 Beautiful (And Highly Underrated) Spots To See Fall Foliage That Aren't In Vermont

13 where to eat and drink in the green mountains, vermont.

For anyone hungry or thirsty in the Green Mountain area, there should be a few nice restaurants to choose from. Here are some recommendations for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks in the area.

Breakfast: Bernie's Restaurant

• Address: 72 Main St, Montgomery Center, VT 05471
• Serving: Comfortable tavern offering classic American breakfast fare, burgers, steaks, pasta & seafood.

Lunch: Green Mountain Cafe

• Address: Address: 359 Lake St, St Albans City, VT 05478
• Serving: Family-owned casual restaurant serving healthy food.

Dinner: The Belfry

• Address: Address: VT-242, Montgomery Center, VT 05471
• Serving: Quaint restaurant serving fresh seafood and comfort bites.

Drinks: Snow Shoe Lodge & Pub

• Address: 13 Main St, Montgomery Center, VT 05471
• Serving: Casual pub serving beer and cocktails.

Vermont also has quite the craft beer scene , which is worth exploring for those after a drink.

14 Where To Stay In The Green Mountains, Vermont

With food out of the way, there are many hotels to book in the Green Mountains of Vermont. As we said, there are towns surrounding these mountains, each offering properties to stay at.

Budget: Bridges 24

• Address: 202 Bridges Circle Unit 24, Warren, VT
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Wi-Fi available in all areas

Budget: Clear River Inn

• Address: 2640 Route 100, Pittsfield, VT 05762
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Private bathroom, Coffee machine, Terrace/Patio, Balcony, Air-conditioned

Mid-Tier: Greenbrier Inn

• Address: 2057 Route 4, Killington, VT 05751
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Flat-screen TV

Mid-Tier: Bristol Suites

• Address: 19 Main Street, Bristol, VT 05443
• Amenities: Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas

Luxury: Sugarbush Inn at Sugarbush

• Address: 1840 Sugarbush Access Road, Warren, VT 05674
• Amenities: Game room, Pool table, Free Wi-Fi, Private bathroom, Terrace/Patio, Air-conditioned, Flat-screen TV

Luxury: The Lilac Inn

• Address: 53 Park Street, Brandon, VT 05733
• Amenities: Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Business center, Flat-screen TV, Free toiletries, Parking

15 Tips For Visiting The Green Mountains

When visiting the Green Mountains in Vermont, there are many things to remember. First, this is an outdoorsy region boasting hiking trails, waterfalls, and plenty of skiing opportunities. Therefore, a retreat will mean plenty of time spent outdoors. Depending on the weather, this can be unsavory for some visitors.

These small Vermont towns are also well worth the detour on a Green Mountain road trip.

The summer and spring will bring the nicest weather, although fall foliage and winter snow are why most come here. Regardless, it's worth it to rent a car, buy plenty of bug spray, and head out into the wilderness!

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In The Green Mountains

For travelers to the Green Mountains, starting off the perfect day can be as easy as a coffee at a local café. Walk through the town you're staying in and enjoy some local entertainment. From there, jump in the car and head to a hiking trail in the Green Mountain area.

These will be a couple of miles long, out and back style, so bring water, a phone, and a friend. From there, venture into nearby cities, enjoying historic locations and monuments. Snap plenty of photos, all while enjoying the crisp Vermont air.

To wrap up, head back to the hotel and eat there or book a table at a restaurant in town. Have fun!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to the “Green Mountain State:” 72 Hours in Vermont

Beautiful landscapes. Fall foliage. Outdoor activities. Maple Syrup. 

Vermont has it all! 

Never would I have ever thought as a native New Yorker (from NYC) that I would be saying this: You MUST go to Vermont at least once in your lifetime! Vermont in the FALL is the ultimate bucket list, but I hear that Vermont in any season is beautiful. You will not regret it! “But why sis?” was the most common question I was asked for why am I visiting Vermont out of ALL places.  Vermont may be a small state, but it has a big offering of things to do!

Keep reading this blog post as I will answer some of the most common questions:

What is the best month to visit Vermont?

Why should I visit Vermont?

What is there to do in Vermont?

What is the number one tourist attraction in Vermont?

What is special about Vermont? 

Is Burlington Vermont worth visiting?

Read this guide to find out why

Vermont is such a special place , why should you go to vermont.

Nature: Vermont truly is the greenest state I have seen so far (and I have been to 35 of them!). Its name is perfectly fitting.

Food: The food is also some of the freshest I have had. Vermont is known for its maple syrup production as well as artisanal cheeses. It is super telling when Montpelier (the state’s capital) is the only US state capital that does not have a McDonald’s! Montpelier doesn’t have a Burger King either! I felt so much healthier. 

Support local & natural: Vermont is really big on growing and supporting what is local and natural! There are so many farms in the state that many of the businesses (even in the biggest city of Burlington) use goods grown from those farms. As a person who loves to support the locals, this made me super happy! 

Nice hospitality: People are SUPER nice! Even though there were few Black people, I felt very welcomed. For more on my experience as a Black American in Vermont, read my blog post! 

Did you know?

Vermont is the second biggest maple syrup producer in the world after Quebec.

Vermont gets its name from two French words. They are 'vert' which means 'green' and 'mont' which means 'mountains'. So the state is named after its lovely green mountains! The name was suggested by Dr. Thomas Young in 1777. 

It was one of the first states to outlaw slavery.

It is the second smallest state by population (after Wyoming).

It was the first state to join the Union after the original 13 colonies.

Location: Where is Vermont?

Vermont is a northeastern state in the New England region of the United States. It borders the states of Massachusetts to the south, New Hampshire to the east, and New York to the west and the Canadian province of Quebec to the north . Vermont is the only state in New England that does not border the Atlantic Ocean.

Getting to Vermont: How do I get to Vermont? 

By Airplane: If you are flying into Vermont, your best bet is to fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV), which is Vermont’s only international airport. Big airlines such as JetBlue, United, American Airlines, and Delta fly there. From New York City, it is just an hour’s flight. However, that is not always the cheapest option. For example, when I was traveling last year, flights were averaging $300+ for such a short distance. Hence, I opted for a different option! Some people fly into neighboring cities such as Albany, NY; Boston MA; , Hartford, CT; Manchester, NH or Rutland, VT, and then drive to their destination.

List of direct flights for Burlington Airport:

Atlanta (ATL) via Delta

Charlotte (CLT) via American Airlines

Chicago (ORD) via United

Denver (DEN) via Frontier and United

Detroit (DTW) via Delta

Newark (EWR) via United

New York (JFK) via JetBlue

New York (LGA) via Delta

Orlando (MCO) via Frontier

Philadelphia (PHL) via American Airlines

Toronto City (YTZ) via Porter

Washington, DC (IAD) via United

Washington, DC 9DCA) via American Airlines

By Car:  Depending on where you are coming from, this will be a long, but much cheaper option. For example, it takes 6 hours to drive from New York City to Burlington, a much cheaper option. Since I do not drive, I managed to convince a friend who does drive to join me on this road trip. However, the drive is only 3.5 hours from Boston, MA;  4 hours from Portland, ME; 2 hours from Montreal, Canada. 

NOTE: I do not recommend driving at night. When we drove from NYC, the roads were pitch black. There were points where we were the only car on the road and our car light was the only light on the road since Google Maps took us through New York State. Try to avoid that! 

By Train: If you are coming from the Northeast area, Amtrak is also a feasible option. There are two Amtrak trains that run through: the Vermonter & Ethan Allen Express.  The AMTRAK Vermonter goes from Washington, DC to St. Albans (a 14-hour ride in total), Vermont with major stops in New York City, Albany, Springfield, MA, Amherst Brattleboro, White River Junction, Montpelier, Waterbury, and Burlington/ Essex Junction.  The Ethan Allen Express is a 5.5-hour ride between New York City and Rutland, Vermont. This may not be the most cost-effective option (it depends if you buy on a discount!), but it definitely is the most scenic option. 

NOTE: Since March, Amtrak has not been operating through the state of Vermont because of the pandemic. 

By Bus: Greyhound or Vermont Translines buses run from New York City, Montreal, Hartford, CT, and Boston, MA with connections to these Vermont cities and towns:

Bellows Falls

Brattleboro

White River Junction

The Megabus also runs buses between New York City, Boston, and Burlington, VT. Burlington's bus terminal is at the Burlington International Airport.

NOTE: Since March, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, Vermont Translines suspended all service until further notice.

By Ferry: From late May through mid-October, Lake Champlain Ferries can take you and your car across the lake between Burlington VT and Port Kent NY in about one hour. 

NOTE: The Burlington—Port Kent ferry doesn't run in winter, but ferries between Charlotte VT and Essex NY operate from mid-April through January 2, and those between Grand Isle VT and Plattsburgh NY operate year-round, 24 hours a day.

How do I travel around Vermont?

Your best bet is by car! Unless you are staying in and exploring the main city center of Burlington alone, everything is far apart in Vermont. Very often, we were driving 30-40 minutes, to get to a different major city. In the main city center of Burlington, there are local buses. However, I am unsure of how far they go or how frequently they run.. You can also take Ubers,  but they were not very cheap rates when I did look at the costs compared to other cities I have traveled to in the USA.

Lodging: Where to stay when visiting Vermont?

This depends on what you want to do. If you are looking for a more natural scene, Stowe, VT is a good place to go. If you want to be in a centralized location, South Burlington is a good place to stay without paying the SUPER expensive pricing to stay in Burlington (and it is only a 7-10 minute drive from the main part of Burlington). Even in South Burlington, rates are not cheap. When we went in the Fall, we paid an average nightly rate of $135.15 for 3 nights, totaling about $450. When I looked at a hotel in Burlington, they were at least $300+ per night.

Biggest Attractions in Vermont

What Are The Main Points Of Interest?

Keep reading as I explain:

Top 4 Places to Visit

Top 5 Things to Do

Top 4 Places to Eat

PLACES TO VISIT:

1.    Smuggler’s Notch State Park

This is a MUST, especially for any nature or fall foliage lover! The scenes are truly unmatched. Smugglers Notch refers to a narrow winding road through the Green Mountains of Vermont with activities such as a campground, hiking trails & rock climbing. Because it is so narrow and winding, it is usually only open in the summer and Fall (example: in 2020 it is open J une 26 - October 12 for camping). Typically, it is open from mid-May to mid-October.

#HISTORYNERDFACT : Aside from epic Fall views, this place has a unique history! In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson passed an embargo act that forbade American trade with Great Britain and Canada. This was a huge economic hit to those living in Northern Vermont who traded with markets in Montreal that were closer than most markets in the USA. End result: Many locals continued to trade illegally with Canada, smuggling cattle and goods through this winding passage or “Notch,” hence the name “Smugglers Notch.” Later on during the USA's Prohibition years in the 1920s, liquor was smuggled from Canada. 

There is a BLACK history not commonly told of this location, but you must read my blog post ____ to find that out! 

TIP: Just drive! Stop! Take it all in! The road is long and winding (we did not even drive to the end) because it seemed to go forever. Therefore, we just pulled over to a couple of open spots and walked around. 

2.   Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace

When I think of Vermont, I think of Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace. Maybe it is because of the towering white-topped church, which is actually the oldest remaining place of worship established by white settlers in Burlington, Vermont dating back from 1816. Maybe it is the concentration of cute shops and restaurants in the 4 block car-free walkway.  This 4 block-stretch between Main and Pearl Streets has so much to offer -- it is actually considered to be a pedestrian mall! 

TIP: Just wander! You can spend hours in this downtown area watching people, sipping on some fresh hot chocolate from a local coffee shop, watching a street performance, shopping in the boutique shops, or exploring a gallery. There is a waterfront nearby!

3.   Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory

Aside from being super woke AF when it comes to Black Lives Matter and gender equality, Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory is a cool place to visit when in Vermont. You can book a tour and see how ice cream production works from start to finish. You will have the opportunity to try a unique flavor not offered at their shop. FYI: It was quite tasty and you get more than a spoonful. If there are leftovers, they allow you to take extra. Of course, you can also stop at the shop to buy one of their creative, uniquely named flavors. There is even a “gravesite” you can visit for all the flavors that did not last. I also loved that I got to meet people from all over the country and the world -- I met a family originally from Norway who came from visiting Montreal.

#HISTORYNERDFACT : Ben and Jerry’s opened their first ice cream shop at a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont! 

TIP: Arrive when they first open to book a tour. I was able to walk in and get a ticket to the first tour they offered.  I have heard of tours selling out later in the day, which I believe because, by the time my tour started, it was filled to capacity. After my tour ended, it was super packed and several times were sold out.

4. Cold Hollow Cider Mill

This place is the epitome of all things Vermont Fall. When you search top things to do in Vermont, this place is guaranteed to be on that list. And clearly, I am putting it on my list as well. Coming here, you will get your fall fix for the year. Although they are most known for their cider donuts, this place has so much more to offer. It is HUGE -- filled with so many Vermont produced goods. Whether you are looking for an assortment of maple syrups, jams, mini maple, and cider pies, or a cheesy souvenir, they have all of this and MORE!

TIP: Stay focused on what you came here for! I say this because it is super easy to walk out with a bunch of unnecessary items that catch your eye (which I did). There are literally thousands of things containing maple and apple cider there. Focus on those warm cider donuts and also get yourself a hot cider drink while you are there for a perfect accompaniment. 

THINGS TO DO:

1.     Wine tasting at Boyden Valley Winery

I don’t know about you, BUT I love to find a winery when I travel! This one is located on an 1875 carriage barn of a 5th generation farm - the perfect place for Fall views while sipping wine or cider and eating Vermont produced chocolates and cheese on the patio. They allow you to taste 7 different wines while giving you an extra 2 tastings for FREE!

TIP: Get the mulled wine!  It doesn’t get any better than sipping some warm, spiced mulled wine while sitting outside in fresh, crisp fall air surrounded by nature.

2.     Take a Lake Champlain Sunset Cruise

Looking for a scenic way to experience nature without a hike? Then this is the activity for you! You get GREAT sunset views during this 2.5-hour cruise aboard the spirit of Ethan Allen. 

TIP: This cruise is only available from mid-May to mid-October, especially since the sun sets earlier here than other parts of the Northeast and it is super chilly in October. Fortunately, we were there the last Saturday that this cruise was being offered. 

TIP: Buy tickets ahead of time online. Tickets can sell out weeks earlier, especially on weekends. I would not recommend buying a ticket with a meal as there are too many good places to eat in Burlington as an alternative. 

3.    Ride the Champlain Valley Dinner train

Another scenic-non-hike alternative is this relaxing three-hour round trip train ride from Burlington to Middlebury with views of lakes and hills. The best part of this train is the 3-course gourmet dinner that is included. This is the ultimate bougee experience that is soooo worth it. 

SIDENOTE: If you are young and/or a person of color, you may feel out of place since most people on the train were middle-aged white folks. With that being said, however, we were treated well throughout the entire experience!

TIP: Make sure to order one of their fall cocktails and charcuterie plates with various Vermont cheeses. It is not included in your dinner train ticket, but it is well worth the purchase!

TIP: Make sure to buy your ticket several weeks in advance as this sells out quickly!

4.   Watch a comedy show at Vermont Comedy Club

Sometimes the best gems are the ones you stumble upon. This is definitely the case with the Vermont Comedy Club. We were not ready to settle in after our Champlain Valley Dinner train. Therefore,  some Google searches led us to come across a comedy show at the Vermont Comedy Club. When we went there, there was a comedy battle between students from two local colleges. Great way to end the evening with laughs! 

TIP: Sadly, because of COVID-19, they have been forced to close their venue. However, they are currently offering comedy shows and classes online. 

5.   Try a Vermont Cremee 

When searching how best to describe a Vermont Cremee, I came across this, “Soft serve is to cremees as soda is to pop” C reemees are essentially soft serve ice cream. It’s ice cream pumped through a machine to make it more airy and soft. Two spots that I tried Vermont Creemes were at Quarry Hill Farm (which we stumbled upon) and Al’ French Frys (which is a local fast food place that had great cremees!). Burlington Bay Market & Cafe is highly recommended by many people. However, I did not get a chance to try it there. 

#HISTORYNERDFACT : In the past, ice cream in Vermont was made with a higher butterfat content, which gave it a creamier texture. Hence the name "creemee", referring to "creamy." 

TIP: Order a Maple creemee, which is unique to Vermont!  

TIP: Do not request soft-serve ice cream! Apparently, you will be judged. Everywhere calls it a cremee.

Places to Eat

1.    Henry’s Diner

This diner is a Burlington landmark for good reason! Located in Downtown Burlington, this diner has been serving home-cooked food including all-day breakfast, since 1925. This was a great first meal: I am still thinking about those warm pumpkin pancakes with natural maple syrup and bacon. 

TIP: Arrive before 11 am as it gets super crowded very quickly. Most people seem to head there late morning for breakfast, so we managed to get seated within 10-15 minutes. 

2.     August First

This is a locally owned Burlington bakery and cafe serving breakfast and lunch. They view themselves as “fast-casual” where you order at the counter and then they call your name when it’s ready.  It gave me hippie vibes. I will say that I was taken aback (in a good way) on their friendliness beyond a hello. I am talking about having a whole convo and remembering your name the next time you come. Yes, I loved it so much that I came here twice during my short trip! Beyond the tasty breakfast, they also are very charitable. For example, they have donated over $90,000 to local nonprofits in cash, gift cards, and food.  Recently, they donated 1% of their sales to local groups that support equality, justice, liberation, and opportunity for BIPOC community members including Black Lives Matter of Greater Burlington .

TIP: Order the Vermont Maple Biscuit toasted with butter. You will NOT regret it. I am craving that biscuit as I type this! '

3.     Pizzeria Verita

Interestingly, we ended up here because the original place we wanted to go had a super long wait! However, everything happens for a reason and this ended up being a great spot. This warm & cozy spot serves wood-fired Neapolitan pizza with farm-fresh cheese. OMG! I am talking about SUPER fresh! 

The most shocking and best part: This restaurant is 50% Black-Owned by Black female Leslie McCrorey Wells. All about supporting a Black-owned business! 

TIP: If you check-in on Yelp, they will give you a free plate for fresh mozzarella with bread. That was a delicious start to a more delicious dinner!

4.     Idyletyme Brewing

If you are in Stowe, Vermont (even if just passing through as we were), this is a great spot to come for outdoor dining. If you are a beer lover, then you will love it even more. Even as a non-beer lover, I appreciated this spot because of its massive outdoor space, delicious food, and exceptional service. Did I mention people in Vermont are really nice? They truly love to chat it up! Here you will find both tourists and locals. You know it is good when many locals frequent the place.  

#HISTORYNERDFACT : This spot has a long history starting off as a blacksmith shop in 1830, eventually turning into a cider mill, then youth hostel to Idletyme Camp and Shed Restaurant. Now it is a brewing company. 

TIP: Order the creamy mac-n-cheese and make sure to add bacon crumbles and truffle oil. It is the ultimate indulgence. However, you will not regret it. The best part is that it includes Vermont Cabot cheddar cheese. 

Keep in mind before traveling to Vermont...

Hotels are expensive AF. Even hotels that are not the best quality are expensive!

If you are visiting in the Fall, bring extra layers. Like a legit winter jacket. Because Vermont is so far up North, it gets colder much sooner. I had the layers but still was not mentally ready for the lower temperatures. 

There are parts where there is little cell phone signal -- for example some parts of Smugglers Notch or near our hotel.

Things can be REALLY cheap or REALLY pricey. For Vermont products, more often than not things were pricey.

Take into account that things are far apart driving wise when planning your itinerary. You will not be able to fit as much as you think you can. Therefore,  try to aim for no more than 2 main activities a day. 

Many outdoor activities stop at the beginning or middle of October because of the weather and sunset times. As a result, if you are looking to visit for Fall activities, there is a small window for you to travel. Check all the websites for activities you want to do before deciding on a weekend to travel to Vermont. 

What are you most interested in doing in Vermont?

Comment below, pin it .

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Green Mountains

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Landscape
• 1.3 Flora and fauna
• 1.4 Climate
• 3 Fees and permits
• 4 Get around
• 10.1 Lodging
• 10.2.1 Northern half
• 10.2.2 Southern half
• 10.3 Backcountry
• 11 Stay safe

The Green Mountains are in Vermont . The Green Mountains are very popular for hiking, skiing, fishing, hunting, and other recreational activities. They are the oldest and highest mountains in the state, as well as the state's namesake.

Understand [ edit ]

The Green Mountains are a sub-range of the Appalachian Mountains . The range runs north-south and is best described as a ridge running from the Berkshires in Massachusetts up to Canada . The highest mountain in the range is Mount Mansfield at 4,393 feet, in northern Vermont. A very large part of the mountains are in the jurisdiction of the Green Mountain National Forest , which is split into northern and southern regions along Route 4 near Rutland.

History [ edit ]

Landscape [ edit ].

Though humble and almost totally enshrouded in thick (need we say green?) forest, the Green Mountains are filled with variation and are at times quite rugged. And despite the heavy forest, there are plenty of open areas, wetlands, and escarpments where wildlife tend to gather. As with all national forest land, there are parts set aside for recreation, logging, and mining, as well as areas that are totally closed off to protect wildlife. Trails and roads in the forest are well maintained and range from very scenic to mosquito-ridden.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

The Green Mountains have a wide range of wildlife. They are mostly covered by northern deciduous forests (maples, oaks, birches, etc.) but also have patches of coniferous forest, wetlands, tundra, grassy ski slopes, and powerline greenways. Each of these areas has its own collection of flora and fauna. Thousands of bird species flock to these well-protected mountains and the bird-watching can really be excellent, especially in the clearings where birds come to feed and mate. Mammals in the national forest are more reclusive but abound in large numbers, and if you're lucky you might see a moose, black bear, coyote, fox, or Indiana Bat.

Climate [ edit ]

The weather in the Green Mountains varies heavily between season and even between elevation. In summertime the weather is usually up around 75 °F but can cool considerably at night. Spring and Fall are brisk and sometimes downright frigid. Winters are very cold, with sub-zero temperatures at times.

Get in [ edit ]

The Green Mountain National Forest is easily accessible from any of the roads that roll through or alongside it. Keep an eye out for the brown national forest road markers, as well as the many trailheads, parking areas, and lookouts that offer easy access to the interior. There are ranger stations in Middlebury , Rochester , Manchester , and Rutland

• Middlebury , 1007 Route 7 South, Middlebury, +1 802 388-4362. Ranger station for the northern section.
• Rochester , 99 Ranger Rd, Rochester, +1 802 767-4261. Ranger station for the northern section. Approx 1 mi north of Rochester on VT100.
• Manchester , 2538 Depot St, Manchester, +1 802 362-2307. Ranger station for the southern section of the forest.
• Rutland , 231 North Main St, Rutland, +1 802 747-6700. This is the main office, which also oversees the Finger Lakes National Forest.

Fees and permits [ edit ]

Fishing and hunting licenses are required. They can be obtained at tackle and hunting shops in the area, as well as at the ranger stations.

Get around [ edit ]

The Long Trail runs along the spine of the Green Mountains the full length of the state. It is a peak-bagging trail, so consider yourself warned, it will occasionally be a strenuous hike. There are lots of good trails throughout the mountains that can be found using a good hiking guide or by getting information from the ranger stations, or by visiting the Green Mountain Club . The Appalachian Trail coincides with the Long Trail through the southern half of the forest and splits off in Gifford State Park, at the southern end of the northern half of the forest. There are lots of drivable park roads (though they are usually dirt or gravel roads) throughout the park. They are identified by small brown signs with the road number on them.

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ], buy [ edit ], eat [ edit ], drink [ edit ], sleep [ edit ], lodging [ edit ].

There are plenty of bed & breakfasts & hotels on and off the main roads that traverse the mountains and in the surrounding towns for those who are not inclined to camp.

• Best Western , #1 Route 4 East , toll-free: +1-866-229-6188 .  

Camping [ edit ]

The national forest operates several developed campsites in the mountains. Most campsites charge $10 per night for staying in one of these sites (no RV hookups). The majority of campgrounds are open Memorial Day through Labor Day, but some are open year-round. Many campgrounds do not have running water, trash receptacles or drive-up camping (i.e. hike-in only). To be fully prepared, please check with the Green Mountain National Forest for more details at http://www.fs.fed.us . The campsites and their locations are:

Northern half [ edit ]

• Chittenden Brook Campground . South side of Rt 73 about 5 miles west of Rochester.  
• Gifford Woods State Park . Near the intersection of Rt 100 and Rt 4.  
• Moosalamoo Campground . Off National Forest Road (NFR) 24 west of NFR 32 near the Sugar Hill Reservoir.  
• Silver Lake Campground . East of Rt 53 near Lake Dunmore. No fee .  

Southern half [ edit ]

• Greendale Campground . On NFR 18 out of Weston.  
• Hapgood Pond Campground . On NFR 21 out of North Landgrove.  
• Grout Pond Campground . On FH6 near Stratton.  
• Red Mill Brook Campground . On NFR 72 north of Rt 9.  

Backcountry [ edit ]

Free camping in undeveloped sites is allowed almost anywhere in the national forest. Precautions should be taken to protect yourself and your food from bears and other wild animals .

Stay safe [ edit ]

Food should be hoisted or put in bear boxes to protect it from Black Bears and other wild animals. Copperhead snakes and rattlers are quite uncommon but not totally unheard of in the Green Mountains. Also be careful of poison ivy and poison sumac .

Go next [ edit ]

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Vermont: The Green Mountain State

By David Lyon and Patricia Harris Vermont is New England’s vertical state, where things are always looking up — unless you’re staring down a black diamond ski run at Killington or Stowe. Lacking the saltwater coast of the rest of the region, Vermont compensates with its knobby spine of the Green Mountains and the nation’s […]

By Yankee Magazine

Mar 11 2008

By David Lyon and Patricia Harris

Vermont is New England’s vertical state, where things are always looking up — unless you’re staring down a black diamond ski run at Killington or Stowe . Lacking the saltwater coast of the rest of the region, Vermont compensates with its knobby spine of the Green Mountains and the nation’s first — and some would argue best — long-distance hiking path, the Long Trail .

The moment you drive across the border you’ll notice that Vermonters cruise around in four-wheel-drive vehicles with ski racks in winter and bike racks in summer. They just toss the snowboards (Vermont more or less invented the sport) into the hatchback. From Mount Snow in the south to outrageous Jay Peak in the Northeast Kingdom , there’s a ski, board, or bike trail with your name on it.

Two artists have captured the enduring rustic soul of Vermont. The “primitive” paintings of Grandma Moses recount a farm-life idyll of the state’s southwest corner. See many of them at the Bennington Museum .

Delivered Daily: The Latest in Travel, Food, and Living in New England

A little farther north in the artistic and intellectual capital of Middlebury , artist Woody Jackson has established the black and white Holstein cow as the icon of the state. Jackson’s bovines emblazon the pints of premium ice cream produced by the Green Mountain moguls of mix-ins, Ben & Jerry , at their Waterbury factory. Also thank the cows for some of America’s best cheeses, which you can taste at the factories in Cabot or Healdville or Grafton — or in any of the state’s equally iconic country stores. (Catch the “original” in Weston .)

The signature taste of Vermont, though, is sweet. Even if you miss the spring maple syrup festivals, be sure to order a tall stack of pancakes at any of the state’s great diners and breakfast cafes. Your syrup should come in a generous pitcher.

Few states feed you as well as Vermont, thanks partly to the training programs of the New England Culinary Institute . Visit NECI’s restaurants in Montpelier and Essex Junction . When the aroma of pot-au-feu lures you into a village bistro, remember that the chef probably trained in Montpelier. And he or she likely uses locally grown produce, meat and dairy products — look for the Vermont Fresh logo.

The state is more than mountain trails, covered bridges, and rolling cow pastures. Two of its lakes — Champlain and Memphremagog — are so big they each have a legendary sea serpent, and the long, deep finger of Lake Willoughby resembles nothing so much as a landlocked fjord.

Though Vermont is one of the least populated states, its cities and towns are lively places. Burlington bustles with international flavor (Montreal’s only an hour away), while old time bohemians and the new millennium avant-garde blend in St. Johnsbury in the Northeast Kingdom and Brattleboro on the Connecticut River. Look for the country gentry in Woodstock — it used to be almost the private preserve of the Rockefellers.

Samuel Champlain no doubt named the countryside in summer (Vermont means “green mountain” in French). If he’d come in early October, he would have called it Rougemont. That’s when the hills light up with the scarlets and oranges of the maples, the somber bronzes of the oaks, and the acid yellows of birches and beeches. The north-south Route 100 cuts right through the heart of brightness. We’ll look for you at the scenic turnout.

Yankee Magazine

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Your Guide to Hiking the White and Green Mountains

No matter your skill level or the type of adventure you're seeking, New England's two dominant mountain ranges offer plenty of opportunities to explore. Here's your guide to getting the most out of them.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Any visitor to New England looking to escape to the mountains faces one major question: The Whites or the Greens? Both of the Northeast’s dominant ranges offer plenty of opportunities to explore but have markedly different environments.

Steep and rugged, the White Mountains are concentrated in north-central New Hampshire, extending from the Connecticut River east to just across the Maine border. The bulk of the range is contained in 796,000-acre White Mountain National Forest , which includes six federally designated wilderness areas and more than 7,700 acres of alpine habitat. Forty-eight peaks in the Whites exceed 4,000 feet in elevation, capped by 6,288-foot Mount Washington, the highest point in the northeastern U.S., the former record holder for the world’s highest wind gust (231 miles per hour), and the site of many infamous climbing and mountaineering stories. An extraordinary network of some 1,250 miles of hiking trails crisscross the Whites, including about 160 miles of the Appalachian Trail . While most forest trails and campgrounds have reopened in both New Hampshire and Maine, be sure to check the status  of individual sites before visiting.

To the west, across the Connecticut River and the Vermont border, lie the Greens. Gently rolling and thickly forested, the range runs the entire length of Vermont from the Massachusetts border to the boundary of Quebec, Canada.  Green Mountain National Forest protects 400,000 acres of the range. Within it is 4,395-foot Mount Mansfield, the highest of the state’s five peaks over 4,000 feet in elevation, rising prominently above the ski area of Smugglers’ Notch. The Greens boast more than 600 miles of foot trails, knitted together by the 272-mile Long Trail . Completed in 1930, it’s the oldest long-distance trail in the country and includes about 100 miles of the AT. The trail opened on May 22 with new guidelines , and some overnight and backcountry facilities have reopened at limited capacity as of June 15. Though Green Mountain Association is encouraging day hikes, dispersed camping is allowed at some locations along the Long Trail and AT. (Check Green Mountain Club’s updates for the latest.)

How to decide between New Hampshire’s White Mountains and Vermont’s Greens? Whether you prefer breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, or multi-day backpacking trips, we’ve highlighted the best outing in each range to help you pick.

If You Want High Peaks and Vistas

The Whites: Carpeted with delicate wildflowers in early summer, the bald summit of the dome-shaped Mount Eisenhower (4,760 feet) features an impressive 360-degree grandstand over the alpine terrain of the Presidential Range and into the Dry River Wilderness below. Begin from the trailhead at Mount Clinton Road on U.S. Route 302 in Crawford Notch State Park , about 20 miles south of the town of Lancaster in central New Hampshire. Ascend via the 2.9-mile Edmands Path , which provides the most direct route to the Mount Eisenhower Loop, a half-mile hike to the summit. 7.1-mile loop, strenuous

The Greens: The distinctive profile of 4,083-foot Camel’s Hump, Vermont’s only 4,000-plus-foot summit without a ski area or any other development, resembles that of a sleeping lion when viewed from the east or west. The panorama from the mountain’s craggy alpine top takes in Lake Champlain, New York’s Adirondacks, and the White Mountains. Start from the eastern base of Camel’s Hump at Couching Lion Maple Sugar Farm , a few miles south of the town of North Duxbury, near Burlington. Hike the lower section of Monroe Trail, and continue on to Dean Trail before hitting Wind Gap, which leads to the viewpoint via Long Trail. 7-mile loop, strenuous

If You Want Waterfalls

The Whites: Dropping 80 feet down the northwest side of lofty Cannon Mountain are a series of cascades and pools, including the main 35-foot plunge of Bridal Veil Falls. From the trailhead just off New Hampshire Route 116, a few miles north of Easton, the family-friendly Coppermine Trail climbs alongside a brook in a forest of ferns and moss-covered boulders. A log shelter located just a quarter mile across the brook from the falls makes for the perfect lunch spot. 5 miles round-trip, moderate

The Greens: The 125-foot-tall Lye Brook Falls, reached via Lye Brook Trail , is the most impressive natural feature in the Lye Brook Wilderness , an 18,000-acre forested plateau of streams, ponds, and bogs just east of the town of Manchester Center. From its source deep in the woods on Stratton Mountain, Lye Brook Falls tumbles and surges through a narrow rock chute to a sea of boulders and down into the valley below. Just before reaching the falls, the trail crosses a short stretch of wide-open hillside, the result of a 500-foot landslide caused by the heavy rains of Hurricane Irene in August 2011. 4.4 miles round-trip, moderate

If You Want Backcountry Hiking

The Whites: In north-central New Hampshire near Mount Washington, take a trip into the heart of the 45,000-acre Pemigewasset Wilderness. Start at the roaring Pemigewasset River for a few miles of ambling along the Lincoln Woods Trail, then hike the Franconia Brook Trail to Thirteen Falls and its Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) tent site. Next, climb the 2.4-mile Twin Brook Trail to Galehead Mountain, one of five 4,000-plus-foot peaks. More tent sites and shelters, including the comfy Galehead Hut —one of the most remote huts in the AMC’s system—can be found along the connecting Twinway (part of the AT) and Bondcliff Trails, a beautiful route that leads 11.5 miles over South Twin Mountain, Mount Guyot, Mount Bond, and Bondcliff. 25-mile loop, 2 to 3 days, strenuous

The Greens: Glastenbury Mountain (3,748 feet) and its circa-1927 fire tower are the highlights of an outstanding backpacking circuit through the 22,425-acre Glastenbury Wilderness . From the trailhead at City Stream on Vermont Route 9, just east of Bennington , follow a 10.4-mile scenic stretch of the renowned Long Trail, which passes two shelters, tent sites, and water sources. On the wooded summit of Glastenbury, climb the tower to enjoy the grand 360-degree view. Returning from the tower, the hike continues on the less traveled West Ridge Trail (7.8 miles) and then Bald Mountain Trail for the 1.9-mile descent to the valley. You’ll end at the East Trailhead on Harbour Road, several miles west of the starting point. Arrange a car shuttle or hitchhike to get back to your vehicle. 22-mile horseshoe loop, 2 to 3 days, strenuous

If You Want Easy and Accessible Trails

The Whites: In the village of North Conway, the lower half-mile of Moat Mountain Trail is a mostly level walk leading to a shady grove of hemlocks and Diana’s Baths , a pretty series of waterfalls, pools, and potholes. 1.2 miles round-trip, easy

The Greens: A few miles south of Mount Mansfield and Smugglers’ Notch, in the village of Stowe, is the  Stowe Recreation Path , a popular multi-use greenway that winds along the West Branch of the Little River. The paved path features views of the surrounding high peaks and access to local shops and eateries along its five-mile length. For a short walk, start at the southern trailhead on Vermont Route 100 and head north to Weeks Hill Road; then on the way back, break off on the adjacent Quiet Path, which is bike-free. About two miles, easy

This story was produced in partnership with Down East magazine.

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Florida Traveler

Off-beat day trips and things to do in Florida.

Florida Road Trip: Green Mountain Scenic Byway

By Michael Warren

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MOUNT DORA, FL — The Green Mountain Scenic Byway is the perfect Florida road trip to enjoy Florida’s “mountains.”

For the flattest state in the nation, Florida has an abundance of mountain towns. There’s Mount Dora, of course. Mount Plymouth. Montverde. Howey in the Hills. Clermont.  Hillcrest Heights. Mount Pleasant.  And then there’s Sugarloaf Mountain , the state’s tallest “mountain.” Only by Florida’s geographical standards are these truly mountain towns.

The Green Mountain Scenic Byway is a 45-mile drive that includes a taste of Florida history, scenic rolling hills and pastoral landscapes. It’s about an hour-and-a-half drive from Mount Dora in the north that follows the west shore of Lake Apopka to Winter Garden in the south. It’s world-famous as a cycling destination, and a popular route for antique car clubs.

Click for a driving map.

Downtown Mt. Dora. One of Florida’s most charming historic towns, Mount Dora is the northern gateway to the Green Mountain Scenic Byway. If you start the drive in the morning, try Mary’s Kountry Kitchen for breakfast. If Mount Dora is where you end the drive, try Pisces Rising or the Olive Branch for delicious and distinctive dining.

Rolling Hills in Central Florida. Is this really Florida? You bet it is. The rolling hills of the Green Mountain Scenic Byway make this Sunday Drive a rare treat in the nation’s flattest state.

Green Mountain Scenic Overlook. The newly opened trails and observation platform of the Green Mountain Scenic Overlook on the west flank of Lake Apopka make a great nature hike or bird watching destination. Once the second largest lake in Florida and famous for its clear water and bass fishing, Lake Apopka is now undergoing a restoration project that aims to reverse the effects of pollution that has turned it into a mucky mess.

Ferndale Preserve – Ferndale, FL. At 162 feet above sea level, the Ferndale Preserve offers a rare, high-vantage-point view of Lake Apopka and the surrounding hills. On clear days, you can see the Orlando skyline in the distance. In addition to hiking trails and great birding opportunities, the preserve also includes a butterfly garden.

Green Mountain Pizza . About halfway through the drive, near the “summit” of Montverde, Green Mountain Pizza offers greek salads, pizza, deli subs and cheeseburgers. It’s a charming local favorite.

Downtown Winter Garden is an “charming city with a juicy past.” Once a hub of the citrus industry and a historic fishing hotspot, its now a delightful downtown and a perfect place to stretch your legs, shop, and enjoy a meal after a scenic Sunday Drive.

Central Florida Railroad Museum . The agricultural boom around Lake Apopka took off in the late 19th century with the construction of two railway lines. The museum is the perfect way to step back in time and explore Florida history. Back in the day, Lake Apopka was a tourist destination famous for its bass fishing and brought celebrities such as Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable to its shores.

The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation celebrates the town’s vibrant by operating three facilities in downtown, including the railroad museum, heritage museum and visitor’s center.

There’s plenty of dining variety in downtown Winter Garden. Local favorites include the Plant Street Market with its Crooked Can Brewing Company, Servando’s for Spanish Cuisine, The Tasting Room for tapas and the old-fashioned Harry & Larry’s Barbecue joint. For great tacos, try Taco Norteno. And if Winter Garden is your starting point on the Green Mountain Scenic Byway, try Axum for coffee and breakfast.

The charming downtown of historic Winter Garden makes a great daytrip in its own right. As the main hub of the West Orange Trail (a popular rails-to-trails bike route) it’s a favorite for cyclists, shoppers, and anyone interested in local history and dining.

This scenic highway winds around the west shore of Lake Apopka through pastures and pine forests. The high point is Sugarloaf Mountain, the tallest mountain in Florida and the highest point on the Florida peninsula, at 312 feet above sea level.

Driving Map of the Green Mountain Scenic Byway:

You can begin the road trip in Winter Garden or Mount Dora. But from the Florida Turnpike, take exit 272 and travel east on SR50 to Orange County Road 545. Turn north on CR545 to Oakland Avenue to connect to the Green Mountain Scenic Byway.

Side Trips & Other Adventures:

• Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
• Florida’s Tallest Mountain
• Ferndale Preserve
• Green Mountain Scenic Overlook
• Oakland Nature Preserve
• West Orange Trail
• More to Do . . . 

Reader Interactions

December 7, 2017 at 4:07 pm

Wow this article is GREAT! Love seeing all the fun things to see and do connected with the Byway! We love driving it to work every day 🙂 One of the lucky commuters! Thanks for mentioning us – Love Team Green Mountain Pizza

December 7, 2017 at 11:28 pm

You missed Coffee Shop of Horrors 100 yards from Green Mountain pizza 😉 that’s ok, we’ll be in the same building soon 🙂

December 8, 2017 at 12:29 pm

Last time i checked The Mason Jar was In Umatilla….otherwise great info

December 28, 2018 at 2:38 pm

You can also kayak Dora Canal for some great wildlife sightings.

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Green Mountain Transit announces new fare resumption date

B urlington, VT- Green Mountain Transit has announced when they’ll resume collecting fares on bus routes after a technological issue delayed their original plans.

Green Mountain Transit officials say bus fares will start again on May 20 in Chittenden County. A new payment system will encourage non-cash payments by capping the amount riders spend through the new payment system, “Ride Ready by GMT.”

Starting next Wednesday, the Ride Ready app will be available for download and will allow riders to pay through the app. The new payment system also introduces smart fare cards that riders can pre-load money onto for fares.

Riders who pay through the app or through a smart fare card will have their costs capped at $4 a day, and $50 a month. That means after a rider reaches that cap, rides are free for the rest of the day or month. Officials say this will help reduce contact with drivers that comes with cash payments and reduce waste from disposable tickets.

In a statement, Clayton Clark, general manager at Green Mountain Transit, said, “When a decision was made to return to fares, we knew we had to give our riders an improved experience. Modernizing our fare operations increases convenience, improves timeliness, and offers price protections for nearly all our riders.”

Green Mountain Transit first suspended fares in the spring of 2020 to reduce contact between drivers and riders during the pandemic. Rural routes will remain free , even after May 20.

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An earthquake with a preliminary 4.8 magnitude rattles the Northeastern U.S., USGS says

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Green Mountain Transit has announced when they'll resume collecting fares on bus routes after a technological issue delayed their original plans.

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Gmt announces new fare resumption date.

Green Mountain Transit announced on Thursday that public bus fares in Chittenden County will resume on May 20

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Green Mountain Transit announced on Thursday that public bus fares in Chittenden County will resume on May 20.

Through the new fare collection system, called Ride Ready by GMT, options for non-cash payments will be increased and costs for individual riders will be capped.

Key features of the new system will be rolled out over the next month, with contactless payment options, and the Ride Ready by GMT app launching within the next two weeks.

Fares were originally set to resume on April 1, but were delayed due to a conflict between Apple and the developer for the Ride Ready by GMT app.

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April Fools' Day pranks: Apps to translate baby stoner sayings, a ghostbuster at Tinder

Every april 1, brands and companies want to get some laughs – and attention – with goofy new 'product' launches. here are some ideas from companies such as sweetgreen, welch's and omaha steaks..

If you don't like Mondays, this one may especially be grating. It's April Fool's Day , when you should trust no one and question everything.

The roots of April Fools' Day may date back before to before the 15th century. But the modern-day April Fools' Day has become a day to prank a friend, family member, co-worker − or your customers.

Even though some companies have had April Fools' pranks backfire , marketers continue to issue spoof products in attempts to get some laughs and attention.

Already ahead of April Fools' Day, 7-Eleven has hinted at a possible prank product: In addition to new Lemon Lime, Green Apple and Sweet Orange flavored 7-Select sparkling waters, out now with partner Miracle Seltzer, there's a fourth flavor coming April 1: Big Bite Hot Dog.

The hot dog-flavored water "combines the mouthwatering experience of 7-Eleven’s iconic Big Bite Hot Dog into one refreshing beverage – ketchup and mustard included," the convenience chain says in a press release . "Say goodbye to the days of alternating bites of a hot dog with sips of a beverage, now those on the go can swap the bun for bubbles."

Krispy Kreme: A special doughnut deal for April Fools' Day

Will Big Bite Hot Dog sparkling water be sold? Its availability will be announced April 1. However, some reporters were sent a can of the drink. USA TODAY can confirm that it definitely smells like hot dog water and has a smoky aftertaste.

If you are interested in trying it, both 7-Eleven and Miracle Seltzer have hinted at having some to give away on their Instagram pages. (If you get a can, share with a friend as it's 16 ounces.)

Here's a roundup of many of the brand-related April Fools’ gag announcements. You've been warned.

Sour cream & onion flavored soda

Despite the proliferation of crazy-flavored products including Peeps-flavored Pepsi , Frank's RedHot sauce-flavored Vlasic pickles and Doritos Nacho Cheese-flavored liquor , healthy soda brand OLIPOP and Pringles are not really teaming up to bring to market a Sour Cream & Onion soda.

The product would have been "a match made in heaven … to bring the delicious, tangy flavor of Pringles’ Sour Cream & Onion flavor to life in liquid form with prebiotic benefits," the companies said.

Stoner lingo translation app

Another dream team prank product: Rosetta Stoned, a mobile app from Rosetta Stone and medical marijuana company Fluent , that "bridges the conversational gap between novice users and seasoned stoners in any social setting."

Da da decoder

Infant equipment site BabyQuip has its own language-bridging lark: the “Baby Translator” app, to decode your baby's secret language.

"Say 'goodbye' to restless nights as you decode your baby's coos and cries instantly, providing you with the understanding you need as a parent, all in one convenient app," it promises.

An AI-powered plush doll

Custom stuffed animal maker Budsies already makes selfie plush dolls with a built-in voice recorder. Its April Fools' spoof: Artificial intelligence-enabled dolls that "come programmed to learn everything about you and to become your new best friend."

A 50-pound Bearabuddy

Sorry to the 3,500 or so who have already signed up to buy Bearaby's Jumbo Benji plush toy, which is four times the size of its regular weighted plush toys and twice as heavy as its heaviest weighted blanket . This isn't actually going to be sold. But it is real and will be making its home in the lobby at The Child Mind Institute in Harlem to welcome children and their families. More weighted plushies are due the day after April Fools' Day, the company says.

A sleeping bag to go bananas over

The Dole Banana Peel Sleeping Bag, conveniently promoted as being available on April Fools' Day only, is made from actual banana fiber and "allows parents to escape into their own cocoon of sensory deprivation."

A full-body cleaning suit

Outrageous clothing company Tipsy Elves has a special product for April Fools' Day: The Mopsie. You don't need paper towels anymore, you can use your body to clean up those messes, with this "innovative, wearable microfiber towel jumpsuit" for "effortlessly soaking up spills and messes with ease." There's also a Baby Mopsie for "hard to reach places."

Korean BBQ deodorant

Kevin's Natural Foods , which has paleo- and keto-certified ready-to-cook and easy-prep entrées, is touting a new line of personal care products inspired by its food dishes including Korean BBQ Deodorant, Cilantro Lime Toothpaste, Lemongrass Basil Shampoo and Tikka Masala Sunscreen.

"These new face, body and hair care essentials will help fans prioritize self-care inside and out," the company says. 

Omaha Steaks' meaty sprays

Omaha Steaks has its own personal care prank product: Meaty Spritz sprays with flavors such as Omaha Fog, Hog Haze, and Cock-a-Doodle-Dew.

"The world’s first protein-infused, flavor-packed, portable pump spray … (to) enjoy all the mouthwatering flavors of your Omaha Steaks gourmet favorites no matter how far away from the kitchen you are!" the company says.

Sriracha toothpaste

Asian sauce maker Lee Kum Kee , which makes Sriracha Chili Sauce and Sriracha Mayo Dressing, is introducing – not – its Siracha Mayo Toothpaste. It's "fiery and creamy goodness … is sure to spice up your morning dental routine."

Post-salad dental kit

Need some less powerful toothpaste? Sweetgreen offered these fanciful personal hygiene products as part of its Sweetgreen After Salad Kit, which is "designed with your pearly whites in mind … offering everything you need to freshen up post-meal."

Choose from Miso Ginger Toothpaste, Spicy Cashew Mints, Lime Cilantro Dental Floss, and Sweetgreen Toothbrush and Floss Picks.

Fruit juice lip gloss

More personal care prank products: Welch’s Juicyfuls Juicy Fruit Lip Gloss – now available in five flavors: grape, orange, peach, strawberry and raspberry – made with real juice from Juicefuls fruit snacks so "you get that irresistible sweet flavor you love, all in a lip gloss that's as fun as it is nourishing."

Protein-powered seasonings

Quest Nutrition , maker of protein powder, snacks and other products, has a prank product line of seasonings including All Purpose, Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Herb, each of which deliver "21g of protein, 2g of net carbs and less than 1g of sugar."

If you want to try Quest's real products, you can use code NOJOKE for free shipping on online orders over $49 April 1-3.

Superpowered Superfeet?

These would certainly come in hand on a run, but – sorry – it's a jogging joke. Superfeet SuperBoost Power E-Soles gives you 8 hours of continuous battery-powered boost, for almost Iron Man-like propulsion. "All the comfort and support of Superfeet , now with electrifying performance," the company says in a video about the prank product. "It's like having a powerful electric motor in your shoes."

Scotch tape-branded Scotch?

This shenanigan seems like a blend that could stick: Scotch Whisky by Scotch Brand. The whisky "features a nose of cherry wood and a delightfully smooth finish that hits like a well-wrapped gift."

Who you gonna call when ghosted? This new title at Tinder

Dating app Tinder announced a new April Fools' Day hiring quest for a Vice President of Ghost Hunting to help combat "one of dating culture’s most prevalent vices – ghosting," a practice inflicted on 78% of singles already in 2024 (an untrue fact from Tinder).

Patrón's bringing back a beloved liqueur. No kidding.

Patrón patrons get some good news today. The premium tequila maker chose April Fools' Day to announce the return of its Patrón XO Cafe tequila-based coffee liqueur, which was discontinued in 2021. Since production ceased, devotees took to social media and signed a petition asking parent company Bacardi to bring it back.

Made with Patrón Silver tequila and Arabica bean coffee – the dry liqueur can be sipped straight, in cocktails and as dessert topping – Patrón XO Cafe will begin arriving in stores again later this month.

Say it with dead flowers

Don't forget to put roses on your April Fools' Day list. UrbanStems has this "special" delivery, The Dead Inside Collection, "an assortment of dead flower bouquets, dead plants, half empty vases, and more for the pessimist in your life." But, for real, check UrbanStems' social media accounts including Instagram for how to get 20% off an order of real flowers.

Cheesecake Factory's real deals

The Cheesecake Factory  also has a deal that's no joke: Sign up for the chain's Cheesecake Rewards loyalty program on April 1 to get an Any Slice, Half Price reward, redeemable for 50% off any slice of cheesecake or layer cake, with any food or beverage purchase (no gift cards).

Those who were members before April 1 will find something special in their account on Monday, too: either a free slice of cheesecake each month for a year, a free whole cheesecake, a free slice of cheesecake, $5 off $25 purchases, or $10 off $40 purchases. (All rewards redeemable by April 16; can be redeemed for dine-in, to-go and DoorDash.)

New merch from Dunkin', bonus points in app

Dunkin' announced it is going back to its roots and rebranding to just "Donuts'" on Monday, April 1. To celebrate the rebrand, the company is selling "Donuts'" merch, including sweatshirts that read "DONUTS," on ShopDunkin.com .

Additionally, Dunkin' Rewards members will receive 3x bonus points on any donut order through the mobile app on April 1.

Urban Outfitters launches 'Name Three Shirts' movement

Urban Outfitters said it is launching a global movement to "stand in solidarity against band-tee-shaming" by launching a new collection called "Name Three Shirts."

The t-shirt line "playfully mocks the gatekeeping attitudes of older generations who insist that band-shirt wearers should be required to name songs by those artists," the company said in a news release.

The line, which features revamped logos from bands such as The Grateful Dead, Joy Division and Led Zeppelin, is a "playful jab at the attitudes of older generations, and fights back against the misogynistic undertones of the infamous ‘name three songs’ line of questioning," Urban Outfitters said in the news release.

The collection of shirts is available online and in select Urban Outfitters stores starting April 1. You can shop the collection online here .

Auntie Anne's, Frontier Airlines collaborate on Pretzel Plane

Auntie Anne's pretzels and Frontier Airlines announced they have collaborated on the newest addition to Frontier's fleet: the Pretzel Plane.

According to a news release, the plane includes new in-flight entertainment featuring Auntie Anne's pretzels rolled seat-side, the "luxurious" smell of hot, fresh pretzels throughout the cabin and airplane-shaped pretzels if you're feeling hungry.

Moe's Southwest Grill, Sonic team up to introduce a Queso Slush

Two popular fast food chains announced a collaboration that is sure to be polarizing.

Moe's and Sonic announced a new beverage, the Queso Slush, a queso-flavored slushie. "The frozen goodness of a Sonic Slush meets the delicious flavor of Moe's queso."

Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads:  @mikesnider  & mikegsnider .

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

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