The return of maple sugaring season is approaching in Vermont, and you're invited to join the festivities! The Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association hosts the annual Maple Open House Weekend on March 22nd and 23rd. Experience the magic of this cherished tradition as local sugarmakers across the state open their doors for maple education, guided tours, and sweet samples. Don't miss the chance to learn about the history and art of maple sugaring. Below, you'll find some must-visit sugarhouses in Northern Vermont.

1. Palmer’s Sugarhouse | Shelburne, VT
Palmer’s Sugarhouse welcomes the community on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Enjoy sugar on snow, live music, horse rides, and other maple-boiling activities. Conveniently located less than 20 minutes from Burlington, this sugarhouse is a must-visit.

Open House Information

2. Sugartree Maple Farm | Williston, VT
Sugartree Maple Farm will be open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday of Open House Weekend. Visitors can tour the sugarhouse, enjoy maple hot dogs, listen to live music, and even try maple-infused adult beverages from BEVO Catering. Breakfast will also be available.

Open House Information

3. Mountainview Mapleworks at the Giroux Family Farm | Richmond, VT
Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, this family-run sugarhouse offers trails to see the running sap, delicious maple samples, and maple coffee and doughnuts. There is ample parking, and Vermont maple syrup will be available for purchase. Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Open House Information

4. Palmer Lane Maple | Jericho, VT
Palmer Lane Maple will have every maple treat you can imagine! Indulge in maple cream donuts, maple hot dogs, and maple creemees. They will also serve cold maple coffee from Brew House Coffee Company and waffle bite sundaes. Open both days from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

Open House Information

5. Browns River Maple | Essex Junction, VT
Visit this family-owned sugarhouse from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for tours, syrup samples, and a tapping demonstration. Meet local motocross racer Kenyon Pelkey for an autograph session, and shop for maple products.

Open House Information

6. Shelburne Farms | Shelburne, VT

Experience the sugaring process at Shelburne Farms! Tour the sugarhouse, tap a maple tree, and enjoy maple syrup samples. Explore the sugarbush, join a scavenger hunt, and try classic sugar on snow. This free event takes place Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Open House Information

Whether you're indulging in sweet samples or embarking on guided tours, you won’t regret immersing yourself in the magic of Vermont’s maple legacy. Be sure to visit these open houses to celebrate this cherished tradition during sugaring season. Check out the  2025 maple map  for a full guide to all Vermont sugarhouses participating in the 2025 Maple Open House Weekend!

Looking for a new winter adventure? Vermont’s frozen waterfalls offer a magical outdoor experience, complete with frosty icicles and peaceful forest settings. These stunning spots are within a 50-minute drive from Burlington, making them perfect for a day trip. Pack some snacks, fill a thermos with your favorite hot drink, and get ready to explore the best of Vermont in the winter! Here are three must-visit waterfalls for your next winter outing:

1. Bingham Falls – Stowe, Vermont
Bingham Falls is a must-see natural gem, just a short ¼-mile hike from the trailhead. Located off Route 108 near Auto Toll Road, the quick trek rewards visitors with picturesque views of frozen cascades surrounded by snowy scenery.
 

2. Warren Falls – Warren, Vermont
Situated two miles south of Warren Village, this popular spot is beautiful year-round. With convenient parking along Route 100 and a short, easy walk from the trailhead, it’s an ideal winter destination. In colder months, the rushing water often freezes into stunning layers of ice, framed by snow-draped trees.

3. Moss Glen Falls – Stowe, Vermont
As Vermont’s tallest waterfall, Moss Glen Falls is especially captivating in winter when the water freezes into graceful layers of ice. The falls are just a short quarter-mile walk from the trailhead and a quick 10-minute drive from Stowe Village, making them an easy stop during a winter outing.

Essential Safety Tips for Visiting Waterfalls in Winter
Winter hikes to waterfalls can be breathtaking, but they also come with icy and unpredictable conditions. Safety should always be your top priority. Trails can become slippery, and snow-covered paths may conceal hidden hazards. Exercise caution near the shoreline and never walk on frozen or snow-covered riverbeds, as the ice may be thin with rushing water beneath.

For better traction on icy trails, we recommend wearing crampons or microspikes and bringing ski poles for added stability. Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers, and don’t forget winter essentials like gloves, a hat, and insulated boots to stay warm and comfortable on your adventure. Stay safe and enjoy Vermont’s winter beauty responsibly!

Looking for more winter adventures in Vermont? Check out these incredible ski resorts in Northern Vermont. 

As the holiday season approaches, the charm of Northwest Vermont comes alive with festive markets offering everything from handcrafted gifts to seasonal treats. Whether you're searching for the perfect present, supporting local artisans, or simply soaking in the holiday spirit, these markets are must-visits for your holiday itinerary. Here's your guide to the best holiday markets in Grand Isle County, Chittenden County, and Franklin County.

Grand Isle County Holiday Markets

Viva Marketplace Holiday Markets | South Hero, VT

Dates: December 7th & December 14th
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM

Discover an eclectic collection of holiday treasures at Viva Marketplace in South Hero. This cheerful boutique offers a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, including toys, jewelry, holiday décor, and women’s clothing. Shop locally made and globally sourced items you won’t find anywhere else. Just a 20-minute drive from Burlington, Viva Marketplace is the perfect stop for stress-free holiday shopping.

Event Information

Annual Grand Isle Craft Fair | Grand Isle, VT

Date: December 7th
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM

Support the Grand Isle community at this annual craft fair at Grand Isle Elementary School. Discover an array of handmade crafts, from holiday décor to unique gifts, and enjoy delicious treats like chili from their annual cook-off. The event also features a popular raffle table filled with generous donations from local businesses. Perfect for families, this craft fair offers something for everyone while supporting a good cause.

Event Information

Holiday Artisan Market Series | North Hero, VT

Dates: December 7th, December 14th, & December 21st
Time: 11 AM – 5 PM

Celebrate the season at the Greentara in the North Hero Village. This cozy artisan market is perfect for finding handcrafted gifts, from ornaments to cozy knitwear. Each week features a variety of vendors, Kraemer & Kin beer tastings, and an inviting atmosphere complete with coffee and baked goods. December 7th is particularly special, with the entire village hosting festive activities, making this market a must-visit during the holiday season.

Event Information

Alburgh Craft Fair | Alburgh, VT
Date: December 7th
Time: 10 AM – 3 PM

Browse over 30 vendors offering a wide variety of handmade goods and unique gifts perfect for your holiday shopping. Don’t miss the popular Pie & Cupcake Walk, where you can select your favorite flavors to take home—this crowd-favorite event sells out quickly! Enjoy a delicious meal or snack from the firefighters' kitchen and enter the raffle for a chance to win a large Christmas Presents basket. 

Event Information

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Chittenden County Holiday Markets

BTV Winter Markets | Burlington, VT
Dates: November 14th – December 22nd
Time: Fridays, 2 PM – 6 PM; Saturdays, 12 PM – 6 PM; Sundays, 12 PM – 4 PM

Step into a festive wonderland at the BTV Winter Markets in City Hall Park. This beloved holiday tradition transforms Downtown Burlington into a European-style outdoor market featuring a rotating lineup of 20 local artisans, makers, and food vendors. Enjoy cozy fire tables, games, and even a DJ on Friday evenings from 4–6 PM. With an incredible selection of handcrafted goods, jewelry, specialty foods, and seasonal treats, the BTV Winter Markets are a must-see holiday destination.

Event Information

Vintage-Inspired Marketplace Annual Holiday Sale | South Burlington, VT

Dates: December 6th – December 8th
Time: 10 AM – 5 PM

Step back in time at this local vintage-inspired market in South Burlington. From retro holiday décor to vintage-style gifts, this three-day event is a haven for anyone who loves a touch of classic charm. With over 55 vendors showcasing their treasures, the Vintage-Inspired Holiday Market is the perfect place to find unique pieces that evoke the magic of holidays past.

Event Information

The Good Trade Makers Market | Burlington, VT

Dates: December 7th & December 8th
Time: 11 AM – 5 PM

Experience nearly 100 independent makers and manufacturers at the Good Trade Makers Market at Hula! This event offers everything from artisan-made goods to innovative designs. With your ticket, enjoy a drink while shopping and meeting talented creators from across the country. Located at Hula in Burlington, this upscale market blends modern craftsmanship with holiday cheer.

Event Information

Winooski Holiday Pop-Up Shop | Winooski, VT
Date: December 5th
Time: 5 PM – 9 PM

The annual Winooski Holiday Pop-Up Shop invites you to explore downtown Winooski while shopping small from local vendors offering a wide selection of thoughtfully crafted holiday gifts. Discover unique treasures, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and support local businesses in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season!

Event Information

Holiday Market at She Works! | Williston, VT

Date: December 11th
Time: 5PM – 8PM

Celebrate local creativity at this vibrant market in Williston, Vermont. Featuring women-led businesses and makers, this event is your go-to spot for beautifully crafted, one-of-a-kind gifts. From handcrafted treasures to unique home décor, there’s something special for everyone on your list. Free admission makes this a fun and accessible outing for the whole family.

Event Information

Palmer's Sugarhouse Holiday Fair | Shelburne, VT

Date: December 8th
Time: 12 PM – 4 PM

Savor the sweetness of the season at Palmer’s Sugarhouse Holiday Fair in Shelburne. Treat yourself to maple-infused delights like affogatos, lattes, and donuts while browsing unique gifts, including antiques, jewelry, and handmade knits. Grass Cattle Company, Kraemer & Kin, and Shrubbly will also be on-site, offering delicious bites and beverages.

Event Information

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Franklin County Holiday Markets

Collins Perley Winter Craft Show | St. Albans, VT

Dates: December 14th & December 15th
Time: Saturday, 9 AM – 4 PM; Sunday, 9 AM – 3 PM

This two-day holiday market in St. Albans is a favorite for finding handcrafted gifts, home décor, and holiday treats. Whether you’re shopping for last-minute presents or seasonal decorations, this market has you covered. 

Event Information

St. Paul’s Art & Craft Show | St. Albans, VT

Date: December 7th
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM

Celebrate local artistry at St. Paul’s Art & Craft Show, featuring unique, handcrafted items like wreaths, slate paintings, pottery, and more. This market is perfect for finding thoughtful gifts while supporting the talented makers of Franklin County.

Event Information

3rd Annual Holiday Craft Show | Georgia, VT

Date: December 7th
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM

Join the fun at Georgia Elementary Middle School for their annual holiday craft show. With nearly 100 vendors offering everything from candles and quilts to jewelry and art, you’ll find something special here. The event includes lunch options and a silent raffle, with proceeds supporting local Girl Scout Troop 61489.

Event Information

Whether you’re exploring the rustic charm of Grand Isle County, the vibrant markets of Chittenden County, or the festive events in Franklin County, each of these holiday markets promises a memorable experience. Support local artisans, find unique gifts, and immerse yourself in Vermont's holiday magic.

As autumn graces northwest Vermont with its vibrant colors and crisp air, hiking becomes the perfect way to enjoy the season. For both locals and visitors, the trails around Burlington offer a chance to embrace the fall beauty and experience Vermont's active lifestyle. From forested paths to stunning mountain vistas, hiking showcases the best of Vermont’s outdoor recreation and natural charm.

1. Mount Philo State Park – Charlotte, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 30 minutes (18 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 1.9-mile round-trip hike with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. This short but rewarding trail is great for families and beginner hikers looking for a quick nature escape.

2. Red Rocks Park – South Burlington, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 10 minutes (3 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A short, scenic walk along Lake Champlain, offering a mix of forested trails and dramatic cliffs with water views. Perfect for a peaceful stroll close to the city.

3. Camel’s Hump – Huntington, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~ 45 minutes (24 miles)
Difficulty: Challenging
Description: One of Vermont’s highest peaks, with various trail options. The Burrows and Monroe Trails are popular 6-7 mile round-trip hikes offering stunning 360-degree views. Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a full day of adventure.

4. Mt. Mansfield via Sunset Ridge Trail – Underhill, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (25 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Description: A 6.5-mile round-trip hike to Vermont's highest peak. Sunset Ridge offers open ridgeline views and a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Perfect for those looking to experience breathtaking alpine vistas.

5. Niquette Bay State Park – Colchester, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~25 minutes (12 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A network of trails through peaceful woods leading to Lake Champlain's shores. The longest trail is around 3.5 miles, making it great for a relaxing, scenic hike with beautiful water views.

6. Stowe Pinnacle Trail – Stowe, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (36 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 3.7-mile round-trip trail offering panoramic views of the valley and Mt. Mansfield. The foliage in fall is especially beautiful, making this a popular hike during the season.

7. Sterling Pond Trail – Smugglers’ Notch, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (38 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 2.5-mile round-trip hike to a serene mountain pond. The trail is steep at first but levels off, offering a rewarding view at the top. Great for those looking for a moderate hike with a peaceful water feature.

8. Pelot’s Point Natural Area – North Hero, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (40 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A 2.6-mile loop through pastures, woods, and along old railroad tracks. With opportunities to see wildlife and views of Lake Champlain, this is a peaceful, nature-immersed hike perfect for families and bird watchers.

9. Eagle Mountain – Milton, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~35 minutes (20 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 2.1-mile round-trip hike with meadows, woods, and scenic views of Lake Champlain from the summit. This moderate trail is perfect for a quick, peaceful escape into nature with rewarding lake views.

10. Libby’s Look Trail – Bolton, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~35 minutes (25 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A 1.5-mile round-trip hike with stunning overlooks of Camel’s Hump and Bolton Valley. Though short, it’s a hidden gem for those looking for a quieter trail with fantastic fall foliage views.

11. Snake Mountain – Addison, VT
Distance from Burlington: ~50 minutes (35 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: A 4-mile round-trip hike with expansive views of the Champlain Valley and Adirondack Mountains. This is an easy to moderate trail, making it a great option for a leisurely fall outing.

Fall transforms Vermont into a colorful wonderland, and hiking is the ideal way to explore it. Whether you're navigating the serene trails of Pelot’s Point or tackling the peaks of Camel’s Hump, these hikes offer a glimpse into the Vermont lifestyle where nature and recreation go hand in hand. Embrace the season and connect with the beauty of Vermont through its trails. 

For generations, Vermont has been a hub of apple production, making fall apple picking an essential activity for both residents and visitors alike. Many of the state’s beloved orchards have been family-owned for decades, preserving a rich tradition of apple growing. We’re excited to highlight some of the most cherished orchards in northwest Vermont, each offering its own unique charm and experience. Discover more about these local treasures below!

Allenholm Farm | South Hero, VT
Located on South Street in South Hero, Vermont, Allenholm Farm has been a cherished part of the community since 1870. The Allen family has managed the farm for seven generations, making it the oldest commercial apple orchard still operating in Vermont, according to the South Hero Land Trust, Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own apples, delicious desserts like Papa Ray’s Pies, and the best maple creemees around.

Adams Apple Orchard | Williston, VT
Adams Apple Orchard in Williston, Vermont, is known for its extensive selection of apple varieties and its friendly, down-to-earth vibe. The orchard offers pick-your-own apples as well as a farm market filled with fresh cider, doughnuts, baked goods, and local produce. Adams Apple Orchard is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, offering a quintessential Vermont apple-picking experience.

Chapin Orchard | Essex Junction, VT
Located in Essex Junction, Vermont, Chapin Orchard is a family-owned orchard that has been a community favorite for decades. The orchard offers pick-your-own apples, along with freshly pressed apple cider, cider doughnuts, and other seasonal treats. With its scenic location and friendly atmosphere, Chapin Orchard is a great place to enjoy the beauty of Vermont in the fall.

Hackett's Orchard | South Hero, VT
Family-owned since 1967, Hackett's Orchard  in South Hero spans 50 acres of farmland and offers a wide range of apple varieties—47 in total! In September, you can pick your own apples, or simply stop by the farm market for fresh cider doughnuts, apple cider, cider slush, and apple crisp. Be sure to visit for pumpkins and other sweet treats, too.

Hall’s Orchard | Isle La Motte, VT
Hall’s Orchard is a historic gem located in Isle La Motte, Vermont. The Hall family has owned the property since the late 1700s and the orchard since 1828. The farmhouse, made from stone quarried on the island, is a testament to the region’s rich history, featuring ancient coral reef fossils. Allen Hall, the current owner-operator, grows apples and pears, offering pick-your-own options, fresh cider, pears, maple syrup, pumpkins, and honey.

Shelburne Orchards | Shelburne, VT
Shelburne Orchards, located in the picturesque town of Shelburne, Vermont, is a must-visit for apple enthusiasts. The orchard is renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and its breathtaking views of Lake Champlain. In addition to pick-your-own apples, Shelburne Orchards offers fresh-pressed apple cider, cider doughnuts, and a variety of apple products. The orchard’s distillery even produces an apple brandy that’s worth a taste!

Yates Family Orchard | Hinesburg, VT
Nestled in the rolling hills of Hinesburg, Vermont, Yates Family Orchard is a family-friendly destination with a welcoming atmosphere. The orchard offers a variety of apple types, all grown with care. Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own apples, and the orchard’s farm stand is stocked with fresh produce, local honey, and homemade preserves. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful fall outing with loved ones.

From the scenic Lake Champlain Islands to the picturesque hills of Chittenden County, northwest Vermont’s apple orchards are a perfect blend of history, community, and farm-fresh apples. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these orchards provide the perfect setting for enjoying the fall season in Vermont.