Into the Hills of Vermont
December 2, 1996
Weather: Burlington, Vermont
City Guides and Maps: Vermont
Vermont -- Snow Kidding (c'mon Lea Ann...keep it...I dare ya! :>)
(CNN) -- Timelessness is at the heart of Vermont's pervasive charm, and on display in the state's picturesque New England towns. In nooks, like quaint Woodstock, federal-style buildings grace the streets, and visitors find at every turn fine architecture little changed from 100 years ago.
Vermont's nickname, "The Green Mountain State," stems from the lush mountains which form its backbone. The Green Mountains rise near its Canadian border and run southward, parallel to Lake Champlain, toward Massachusetts. After the first snowfall, the state's peaceful green hills become a winter wonderland, and as the temperatures cool off, an action-packed winter sports season heats up.
Those who prefer to experience the great outdoors at high speed can head into the woods on a snowmobile journey along 3,000 miles of well-groomed trails. The non-profit VAST (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers) spearheaded the development of the trails, which feature well-marked signs designating sharp curves, small trees and upcoming stops, as well as food and lodging.
At higher altitudes, skiers can take their pick of more than 9,000 trails. From the smorgasbord of runs at Killington to the challenging steeps of Mad River Glen, Vermont is one of the best and most affordable places to hit the slopes in the eastern U.S. It has thousands of acres of skiable terrain and is just a day's drive from every major city in the northeast.
The first American ski tow was built in Woodstock in 1934 and the first ski patrol started in Stowe in 1936. Now, Vermont's ski spots are an alpine lovers' dream with ultra-modern lifts, like Killington's 3.5 mile-long gondola.
Apres ski, side treks away from the fast-paced slopes reward visitors with a glimpse of Vermont's picture-perfect scenery. More than 100 covered bridges are scattered throughout the countryside; the official state map pinpoints their locations. The historic structures were built with covers to keep the elements from rotting their wooden tresses.
Over the fields and into the woods, an even sweeter treat awaits. The art of maple sugaring has been a part of Vermont for generations. The phrase "Made in Vermont" has become synonymous with high-quality home-made products. The typical sugaring season lasts four to six weeks, sometimes starting as early as February in southern Vermont, and lasting into April in northern parts of the state.
Visitors who want an inside peek at this time-honored tradition can stop at one of the 2,500 "sugar houses" scattered throughout the Vermont woods. Many, like Kedron Valley Farms near Woodstock, are open to the public for tours -- the slower pace may take you back into another time.
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