Day 5 - Stowe Gondola Skyride/Vermont Scenic Highways
Haven't had your fill of heritage rail? Opt to add the one-hour
Conway Scenic Railroad to your package this afternoon. The train
itself was first put into service in 1875, yet it was not opened as
a tourist attraction until 1974. The train departs from the line's
original 1874 station and follows several scenic routes, including
one through the Conway Valley.
Or get an early start for a full day in Vermont. Leave White
Mountain National Forest behind as you set off for the rolling
hills of Vermont. Depending on your route, opt to stop in the
riverside town of Littleton, NH or head straight to the charming
towns of Waterbury and Stowe VT.
One of the highlights of Stowe is its Gondola Skyride, and as
you arrive, it offers your first look at the ethereal terrain of
Mount Mansfield. This mountain is the highest in Vermont and is
extremely beautiful, especially in the autumn when covered in the
ruby reds, rich rusts, and lovely ochres of fall's leaves. The
gondola route is about 2.6 miles in length, and once it stops at
the top, you have access to hiking trails, a restaurant, lookout
points, and more.
This region is famous for its beer, and with good reason. Stop
for a pint at Von Trapp Brewing and walk the grounds of Trapp
Family Lodge for stunning panoramic views. Or for more hoppy brews,
head to the Alchemist or farther south to Lawson's Finest Liquids.
This area has more craft than just beer! You may wish to stop at
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks to sample 100 percent natural maple
syrup or taste small-batch, artisanal cheeses along the Vermont
Cheese Trail. Visit the famous Ben & Jerry's factory to tour
the facilities and sample the day's flavor or sip craft coffee -
and grab a few bags to take home - at Vermont Artisan Coffee &
Tea.
Continue the scenic drive to Burlington. Overnight
Burlington.