Orleans County: Nature, Culture and Seasonal Experiences

Your visit can focus on outdoor activities, museums or seasonal performances. Destinations differ not only in theme, but also by season and access arrangements—a useful starting point for planning your stay around your interests.

Trails, Winter Activities and Scenery

The Willoughby State Forest offers primitive camping, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These recreational uses on state land are subject to state land regulations. Hazen’s Notch State Park marks the end of the Hazen Military Road, built in 1779; sections of the Long Trail run through the park.

Jay State Forest offers downhill skiing in both developed and backcountry terrain. It includes nine miles of the Long Trail, including its northern terminus at Journey’s End. The Craftsbury Outdoor Center offers day access to its trail network for walking, mountain biking or skiing. Access conditions and trail conditions may vary seasonally. Regulated hunting, trapping, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing are possible in the Willoughby Falls Wildlife Management Area.

Lake Willoughby is a five-mile-long glacial lake that reaches a depth of 328 feet at its deepest point. At the northern end is a free public beach for sunbathing and swimming; local seasonal rules may apply to the beach. At Sentinel Rock State Park in Westmore, trails lead from the park’s historic homestead through meadows and forest to the rock. The park covers 356 acres and offers expansive views of Westmore and the Green Mountains.

Jay Peak is a year-round resort. Its indoor water park is also open year-round; amenities also include an ice arena, a recreation center and a golf course. Skiing and snowboarding are also available. Hikes there range from easy and family-friendly to challenging, though access and trail conditions may vary seasonally. As resort offerings can change, it is advisable to check the latest information before your visit.

Museums, History and Events

The Bread & Puppet Farm in Glover has a 140-year-old barn that has been converted into a puppet museum. The Bread & Puppet Museum spans two floors and displays puppets; particularly large figures are on the second floor. The Bread & Puppet Theater has staged circuses and pageants in Glover since 1975. Performances take place from June to October.

The Museum of Everyday Life’s exhibits explore ordinary objects. Topics include pencils, safety pins, mirrors, toothbrushes, matches, locks, keys, scissors and dust. The museum is self-service and open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. As operating details may change, check the latest visitor information before your visit.

The Haskell Free Library & Opera House was founded in 1901, spans Canada and the United States, and houses a theater. The Orleans County Historical Society cares for museum collections and Brownington’s Historic District, and shares the history of Orleans County.

The Orleans County Fair Association plans three events each year at Roaring Brook Park: the Orleans County Fair and celebrations for Memorial Day and Independence Day. The Newport Farmers Market is an outdoor market featuring regional produce and local crafts. Market activity and schedules may vary seasonally.

Discover more destinations: Jay, Westmore, Essex County, Rutland County, Caledonia, Bennington County, Grand Isle County, Franklin County.

For the overview of destinations across the region: Vermont.