Written by Kimberley Rupe

There is so much for all of us to be thankful for this year; our friends, family, good health, the list is endless. To celebrate the upcoming holiday, we’ve decided to share five things we are thankful for in Rutland County that will have you packing your bags and making the move to this place we call home.

360 Views

We’re often asked by people who are considering a move to Rutland County what the best town is for mountain scenery. Our concierge volunteers are quick to smile and share that regardless of where you are in Vermont, you are bound to have a view of our Green Mountains. While taking a hike will certainly provide you with some of the best views, we are so lucky that we can always see our famous mountains and enjoy them through all of Vermont’s seasons. As the snow flurries have started in the last week, we are excited to start seeing our Green Mountain’s glistening with snowflakes.

Year-Round Outdoor Recreation

There is a common misconception that outdoor recreation will often take a pause in Vermont during some of our colder months, but the good news is, we’re a year-round destination for outdoor recreation.

Here are some of our offerings for outdoor recreation throughout the year:

  • Mountain Biking: Our mountain biking trails have grown exponentially the last few years and have received national recognition, particularly at Killington Resort, Pine Hill Park, and Slate Valley Trails. The warmer months are certainly more popular for mountain biking, but we see lots of friendly faces participating in what is known as fat biking in the snowy months.
  • Hiking: Be sure to climb our Green Mountains year-round! The views are spectacular all year long and should be experienced in alIce Fishingl the seasons. If you are out exploring in our colder months, be sure to purchase some Yaktrax for your shoes so that you have some extra traction in our slippery areas.
  • Ski & Snowboard: We are so fortunate that Killington Resort has chosen Rutland County as their home, offering some of the best slopes in the country for skiing and snowboarding. Killington is the host for the FIS Ski Women’s World Cup event in the United States happening from November 27-28. Killington Resort also offers year-round excitement that is a must when considering other activities.
  • Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Downhill skiing isn’t the only skiing option in Vermont. There are public trails throughout Vermont that allow cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You will want to take a look at Mountain Top Inn & Resort which offers 700 acres and miles of trails to take advantage of.
  • Water Activities: Throughout the entire county there are several bodies of water to take advantage of, specifically at our State Parks. Jump in to cool off in the summer months and break out your ice skates or ice fishing gear in the winter.
  • Snowmobiling: The Vermont Association of Snow Travelers is a statewide organization that maintains over 5,000 miles of public trail access. Hop on a snowmobile and cruise the trails for an experience you will never forget.

We could keep going with suggestions on outdoor activities, but our list would be a mile long which is why we’re especially grateful to live in an area that offers us clean air and the ability to get outside all 12 months of the year.

Craft Beverages
Rutland County is home to several local breweries, distilleries, and wineries that are enjoyed across the country. While you are here, save some time to tour a few of our best spots for some tastings.

 

Baird FarmFamous Maple Syrup
It certainly isn’t a secret that our entire state makes some of the best maple syrup across the country. In Rutland County alone over 60 sugarmakers are making this liquid gold that is enjoyed on pancakes, French toast, and even snow and cocktails! The Vermont Maple Sugar Makers’ Association offers a lengthy list of local sugarmakers. Rutland County’s own Jenna Baird of Baird Farm serves as a contributing member of their board of directors.

The People
Vermont is a special place – from the craft beverages to our Green Mountains. But there will also be one thing that stands out the most while counting all the things that we are thankful for and that is the people that live here. Individuals throughout Vermont are constantly finding volunteer opportunities to give back to their community and make a positive change. The people that call Rutland County home are our neighbors, friends, colleagues – and we are all considered family.

 

Thanksgiving is a special time of year and as we count our blessings and share the things we are thankful for, we are thankful for our home, and our home is Rutland County.

 

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