Skip the lift lines! 9 things to do this winter in Vermont, other than skiing!

When it comes to winters in Vermont, getting outside can be both bone-chilling and intimidating. But with proper cold-weather wear and a winter activity that motivates YOU, getting outside for winter in the Green Mountain State can be awe-inspiring or even life-changing. Of course, skiing is a popular go-to outdoor activity for some, but if you’re looking to steer clear of the lift lines, there’s a lot more out there!

Ice Fishing

Being out on the water in the warmer months is excellent, but setting up on the ice in the winter for a bit of fishing can be a peaceful option, too.  Ice fishing is perfect for both seasoned anglers and anyone who wants to try it out. The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department offers free winter clinics to show you the ins and outs of this scenic and relaxing winter activity. Learn about regulations, how to set up, what to fish for, identify what you catch, and so much more. The clinics run for about 2-3 hours, and registering for a clinic on the site is quick and easy. So dress warm, bring something to sit on, and take in the natural beauty while you learn a new sport! 

Ice Skating

Lake Morey is a skater's dream with 4.3 miles of skating trails, well-groomed surfaces, pond hockey tournaments, skate rentals, and so much more. Winters on Lake Morey will not disappoint. However, if skating isn't for you, they also offer cross country ski trails, snowshoe rentals, walking trails, a movie theater, and an indoor heated pool. This place truly has something for everyone! 

For a more wild skating experience, wait until Lake Champlain is completely frozen, then head out on a breathtaking adventure to the Donahue Sea Caves. Though the name would lead you to believe that there are multiple caves, there's actually only one that can be accessed by using the North Avenue trailhead across from the former Burlington High School. Once you access the keyhole-shaped opening, you'll see icicles hanging from a rock formation that took shape over 500 years ago. Safety first in making sure the ice is thick enough to support skaters, but once you access the cave, you will feel like you've been transported to another time. 

Sledding 

Every town has its favorite sledding hill, but if you're looking to mix it up, pack up your sledding buddies, prep the hot cocoa mugs, and load up the tubes for a sledding adventure at Sharp Park! Some visitors have described the tubing and sledding experience here as "The best sliding hill ever!" and "The mother of all sliding hills." A small $10 parking fee is all it costs to get access to the hill for everyone in your car. But If you decide to leave the hot cocoa and sleds at home, they provide sled and tube rentals as well as hot cocoa and snacks on the deck. 

Snowmobiling

Moving from one type of sled to another, snowmobiling is the perfect activity for anyone looking for speed, trails, touring, and excitement! With approximately 80 miles of trails in the Northeast Kingdom and other clubs like Brighton Snowmobile Club, Northeast Kingdom Sno Blasters, Canaan Border Riders, and Drift Dusters opening additional sections of trail in their areas, your snowy adventure will seem endless. However, keep in mind that while you prep for your tour, conditions vary, and fueling stations are limited, so plan ahead and plan accordingly. Heading to the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) website will give you all of the information you’ll need to make your snowmobiling experience an epic one! 

Curling

Yes! Curling is a sport you can master during the winter months! A clinic hosted by the Green Mountain Curling Club will show you why there is so much yelling, what those brooms do, and how to score points with that giant slider. They'll also provide opportunities to play a mini-game so that you can test your new skills out against other players! 

Enjoy a cocktail at the Ice Bar

This year, Hotel Vermont will be hosting their 10th Annual Ice Bar for two nights of frosty fun on March 11th and 12th, 2022. Ice sculptures, festive cocktails, and yummy snacks will be on hand, as well as a photo booth, DJ, dancing, and ice games! Capacity will be limited this year, so be ready to buy your tickets starting January 25th. Each ticket will include entry and three tokens that can be used for drinks or food from the food truck throughout the evening. So grab some friends, grab some tickets, layer on top of those long johns, and lace-up those dancing snowboots for a night of fun at Hotel Vermont! 

Take a cooking class 

Want to go on a culinary adventure? Sign up for a cooking class at The Essex, where you can learn several different skills like kitchen fundamentals, cake decorating, dialing in new recipes, the best dishes for entertaining, and so much more! Making a reservation for yourself and a friend to participate in a diverse offering of classes is quick and easy. So grab your apron and get ready to breathe life back into your cooking routine! 

King Arthur Baking Company also offers a virtual baking class option where you can learn to bake anything from French Macarons to Japanese Milk Bread, Gnocchi, Pizza, and more from the comfort of your own home! If you aren't interested in signing up for a formal class, their website offers baking tips and recipes for you to try on your own, making it the perfect fit for an indoor activity on a chilly day.

Snowshoeing 

If you have trails near your home that you enjoy walking during the warmer months, chances are that they are also the perfect place to snowshoe in the winter. Getting out close to home is often a great way to start or end your day, but if you want a longer trek and more of an adventure, your options are limitless. The Kingdom Trails in East Burke are an excellent option for longer, diverse terrain with an endless trail system that has something for everyone. 

If the drive up to the Kingdom is a little too long on a snowy day, the Vermont Outdoor Guide Association (VOGA) has created an extensive list of trails all over the state, making it easy to find an adventure close to home no matter where you live. 

Visit a winter carnival

Head over to Stowe for their annual Winter Carnival, which takes place from January 20th to the 23rd! This event hosts professional Ice Carvers who showcase their creations all over the village. Not only will there be beautiful ice sculptures to stroll around and view, but there will also be several different events taking place each day! These include an amateur ice carving class and competition at the Alchemist, astronomy and stargazing clinic, and a Snowvolleyball Tournament at Stowe Cider. So just show up with your six-person team made up of both male and female players to take on other teams in this snowy showdown! 

Winter in Vermont can be long and cold, but it doesn't have to be boring. We hope this list encourages you to get out there and see what might be the perfect activity to keep you from going stir crazy this season!