Winter Recreation

Winter Recreation at WilloughVale Inn in Vermont

With so much to see and do here in the winter, you need more than just a day or two to explore the Northeast Kingdom of VT. Visit the Northeast Kingdom Travel & Tourism Association Events and begin planning your adventures.

Snowmobiling in Vermont is a North Country experience not to be missed!

For more than 40 years, a remarkable network of over 5,000 miles of groomed and connector trails has wound its way through our beautiful state. The V.A.S.T. ( Vermont Association of Snow Travelers ), composed of local clubs and over 120 groomers, maintains a vast network of groomed trails for riders to enjoy. Community clubs offer events every weekend to add to the fun. The Northeast Kingdom has long been a major hub for snowmobiling. A trail leading to Island Pond, Vermont’s Snowmobile Capital , is located just outside the Inn’s door!


Snowmobiling in Northern Vermont near Lake Willoughby

Snowmobile Rentals : All Around Rental at 802-748-7841

   

A typical snowmobile season in Northern VT starts in the middle of December depending on conditions. Take a guided tour from an area snowmobile operator, or ride on the V.A.S.T. trail network. To do so, you must purchase a V.A.S.T. trail pass for your legally registered snowmobile through a local club - and you’re on your way! For further information on purchasing a pass and rules for the trail, visit VTVAST.org , or buy through the local club at OrleansSnowStormers.com . Be sure to ask about our V.A.S.T. Member Discounts – offered all season long!


Further information : Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (V.A.S.T.) - Phone: 802-229-0005 or visit VTVast.org for trail maps and further information.

Winter Sleigh Ride in Northern Vermont

Sleigh Rides in Northern Vermont

An extremely popular diversion in winter, a horse-drawn sleigh ride is the perfect way to experience the beauty of our pristine Northern VT landscape. You will stay warm and toasty with blankets and a warm drink on this exhilarating adventure!

Further information:
Perry Farm in Brownington - 802-754-2396. 

Sled Dog Tours

For the ultimate winter adventure, take a sled dog tour! You will be truly awed by the power, sense of camaraderie and teamwork of the sled dog. Ride for one hour intervals or plan a full day excursion. You will surely take home memories of a lifetime of your time spent in the backcountry with this captivating dog team!


Further information :

Eden Dog Sledding - 802-635-9070

Vermont Ventures-    802-274-1045

Sled Dog Tours in Northern Vermont

Downhill Skiing in Vermont

Two renowned resorts are both a reasonable drive from Lake Willoughby. The Burke Mountain Resort, a 25 minute drive from the Inn, offers a classic New England ski experience with excellent trails and a "down home" casual atmosphere. Jay Peak Resort, approximately 40 minutes to the northwest, is a European style resort boasting the highest number of "powder days" in VT. Enjoy the view from the tram as you ride to the 360 degree summit! Lessons and rentals are available at both resorts.

Burke Mountain Resort: 802-626-7300 or visit SkiBurke.com
Jay Peak Resort: 800-451-4449, 802-988-2611 or visit JayPeakResort.com
Downhill Skiers near Lake Willoughby in VT
Cross Country Skiers near Lake Willoughby in Vermont

Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing in Vermont

From pristine backcountry woodland trails and snow-covered fields to exceptional cross-country ski centers with expertly groomed terrain, you will surely enjoy the best that the Northeast Kingdom Vermont winter has to offer.

Innsider’s Tip: Enjoy the peace and serenity of the Westmore Wilderness Trails, located at the south end of Willoughby Lake. The Inn has two pairs of Tubbs Snowshoes for guest use, free of charge, based on availability. For the hearty is a snowshoe trek up Pisgah Mountain in Vermont.

Burke Mountain Cross Country Ski Center - About 25 minutes from the WilloughVale Inn, ski touring enthusiasts will enjoy some of the prettiest and least tamed wilderness and hillsides to be found anywhere in VT. 80 km of terrain are offered, with loops that range from 1-12 km for skiers of every ability level. Phone: 802-786-8338 or visit SkiBurke.com.

Craftsbury Outdoor Center - Craftsbury, a quaint, quintessential New England village boasting a historic General Store, is approximately 30 minutes from the Inn. Phone: 802-586-7767 or 800-729-7751 or visit Craftsbury.com.

The Kingdom Trails Association - a 100-mile trail network (Vermont’s largest recreation trail system) that is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing – Visit KingdomTrails.org for further information.

East Burke Sports (Rentals) - will help outfit you with the latest and greatest gear needed for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, paddling, cycling and more. Located in East Burke, Vermont, just a mile from the lifts at Burke Mountain and on The Kingdom Trail network. Phone: 802-626-3215 or visit EastBurkeSports.com.

Northwoods Stewardship Center - 30km network of signed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking in VT. These quiet paths wind through 2,700 acres of forested and open landscapes and reveal stunning views of the Clyde River Valley and beyond. Visit NorthWoodsCenter.org or call 802-723-6551 for more information.

Ice Climbing

Once featured on the cover of Rock & Ice Magazine, the famed icy cliffs of Mt. Pisgah tower over breathtaking Lake Willoughby, making it one of the most renowned climbing experiences in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. Not for the novice climber, experience is a must for scaling the 300’ steep cliff walls.

Vermont Adventure Tours offers beginning and advanced ice climbing courses.
Ice Climbing near Willoughby Lake in VT
Ice Fishing on Lake Willoughby in Westmore, Vermont

Ice Fishing in Vermont

In 1981, John Staples caught a 34 lb trout from Lake Willoughby’s 300’ deep glacial waters. It is no wonder that the lake is a mecca for fishing year-round! With or without a shanty, you may expect to net perch, bass, "longe" (a large fish resembling a salmon) and common mountain trout.

Fishing Licences/Bait & Tackle:
The Evansville Store offers all that is needed to get you out fishing, including Vermont licenses - Fishing licenses may also be purchased online through the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
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