23 Outdoorsy Things to Do in Manchester, Vermont: Tips from a Local

Last updated on August 23rd, 2024 at 03:28 pm

Welcome to the third episode of Locals Know Best! I’m Cindy, your host. As a previous full-time RVer passionate about all things travel, I’ve learned one key lesson from my years on the road: locals always know best! In each episode of this podcast, we’ll explore a local’s ideal day of outdoor adventure in their hometown!

Locals Know Best Podcast Episode 003: Leaf Peepin’ & Apple Pickin’ in Manchester, Vermont

This article summarizes the third episode of the Locals Know Best podcast! [And has been updated for 2024!]

Every podcast episode explores a local’s perfect day of outdoor adventure in their town. 

In this episode, we have the privilege of exploring Manchester, Vermont, through the expert eyes of Retha Charette, a local nanny and tour guide. Her deep knowledge and love for the area make her the ideal guide for our adventure.

Join Retha and me as we experience Vermont on a picturesque fall day, visiting a historic site, apple picking, and hiking to one of the most stunning spots in the Green Mountains!

Listen to the Episode

Click here to listen to this episode of Locals Know Best! [Now also on Youtube!]

About Retha Charette

Retha’s Website – Roaming Nanny

To tell you more about Retha, she loves helping women find adventure worldwide, from the everyday to the epic.

She shares her knowledge about finding adventure on her blog, roamingnanny.com, and leads international adventures for women’s travel groups such as WHOA Travel and Damesly.

She currently lives in southern Vermont and enjoys hiking, camping, gardening, and watching the sun rise and set.

About Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, Vermont, a charming town in the state’s southwestern corner, is a true hidden gem. Northern Vermont towns, such as the three-hour north city of Burlington, often overshadow Manchester. It’s in a region with many small towns that feel like hidden gems, places you’d only discover if you’re from the area, live there, or have explored Vermont in depth. Its unique character and the spectacular fall foliage make it a destination worth exploring.

Retha moved to Vermont after working there one winter and meeting her partner. They built a small cabin with stunning mountain views, and she’s called it home for many years now.

Retha, a resident of Vermont for many years, is a true local and an expert on the area. While she may not have the title of a “real” Vermonter because your family must have been in the state for at least three generations to earn that title, she certainly has the knowledge and experience to guide you through this beautiful region.

Where is Manchester, Vermont?

Manchester is located in southwestern Vermont, about 35 minutes north of Bennington or 1 hour and 20 minutes northeast of Albany, New York. It’s nestled in the bottom left corner of the state.

When is the Best Time to Visit Manchester, Vermont?

There’s something truly magical about visiting Manchester, Vermont, in the fall. The mountains that go up the state’s spine, usually lush and green during the summer, transform into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. The Manchester, Vermont fall foliage is next level, and the whole state really comes to life.

When Not to Visit Manchester, Vermont

While Manchester, Vermont, is a charming destination year-round, there’s one time of year that avid hikers might want to avoid. Locals refer to the period between spring and summer as “mud season,” when melting snow and lingering cool weather create extremely muddy hiking trails.

While a bit of mud usually isn’t a big deal, it can become quite problematic in Vermont, and the more foot traffic the trails receive, the worse they get. It’s best to avoid hiking during this time, which is generally from April to early June.

What to Do in Manchester, Vermont

There are so many fun things to do around the adorable town of Manchester, Vermont! Here are the best outdoor activities in the area:

1. Hiking in Manchester, Vermont

Vermont is famous for the Green Mountains, which stretch 250 miles (400 km) from Massachusetts through Vermont and up to the Quebec, Canada border.

Most of the mountain peaks range between 3,000 and 4,000 feet, with one of the tallest being Mount Mansfield, reaching 4,393 feet (1,339 meters). While these elevations might not seem exceptionally high compared to mountains in places like Colorado or Washington, Vermont’s mountains are notable for their steepness.

Hiking here often involves a sharp ascent followed by a quick descent, with little in the way of flat stretches once you reach the summit. It’s typically a direct and challenging climb up and down.

The hikes around Manchester, Vermont, are truly remarkable. While they’re enjoyable at any time of day, they become exceptionally breathtaking around sunset. Just be sure to bring a reliable flashlight or headlamp for your return hike, as it gets pretty dark in the area once the sun sets. 

If you’re looking for specific hikes to explore, keep reading as I highlight a few of the best options.

The Long Trail

The Long Trail is one of the most legendary hikes in the state. It involves hiking throughout the entire state of Vermont, from the Massachusetts border through the Green Mountains all the way to the Canadian border! It’s 272 miles long and an incredible hike for passionate hikers wanting some of the best views of the entire state of Vermont. 

The Appalachian Trail

Another legendary hike familiar to many American hikers is the Appalachian Trail, which spans over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine. It’s one of the most challenging and well-known hikes in the United States. 

A few years back, my husband and I completed the entire Appalachian Trail as thru-hikers, and it was an unforgettable experience. If you’re not up for tackling the whole trail at once, you can opt to hike sections that pass through Vermont.

Equinox Preserve Trails

The Equinox Preservation Trust oversees land donated for conservation to protect the forested areas and trails. This preserved land in Manchester is a fabulous spot for outdoor lovers to explore and enjoy hiking. There are several trails to choose from, including the short Pond Loop Trail, the scenic Aspen Trail, which is extra beautiful in the fall, and many others suitable for hikers, snowshoers, and other outdoor activities.

Dorset Trails

Dorset is located just outside Manchester, Vermont, only a 12-minute drive away, making it convenient for additional hiking options. Dorset offers several trails, including the short and moderate 2.6-mile Lower Prince, Middle Prince, Klondike, and Gettysburg Quarries trail. 

For those seeking a more challenging hike, the 6.6-mile Mother Myrick Mountain trail, rated as difficult, is an excellent choice. Overall, Dorset is a great destination close to Manchester, offering a variety of hiking experiences.

Lye Brooke Falls

Another fantastic hiking spot just outside of Manchester is Lye Brook Falls. This spectacular 4.5-mile out-and-back trail is moderately challenging and leads to a gorgeous waterfall.

More Outdoorsy Things to Do in Manchester, Vermont

While the area’s hiking is incredible, Manchester offers plenty of other outdoor activities. Continue reading as I highlight some of the top options.

2. Visit Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home

If you’re a history enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring captivating historic estates, a visit to Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, is a must. This estate was built by Robert Lincoln, the son of President Abraham Lincoln.

In addition to its rich history, Hildene offers lovely gardens, a goat farm, and extensive walking trails, making it a wonderful place to learn and enjoy the outdoors.

3. Go Apple Picking

If you’re visiting Vermont in the fall, apple picking is a must-do activity alongside leaf-peeping. Not only is it a fun and picturesque experience, but it’s also a terrific way to gather fresh apples for snacking or baking an apple pie. One of the best local spots for this is Mad Tom Orchard, where you can also capture some beautiful fall photos and soak in the seasonal charm.

4. Go Mountain Biking

The area has many fantastic options for hitting the trails on a mountain bike. One of the most popular is the Northshire Area Trail System, which offers several different trails to choose from, including the Raptor Lane Trails, the Manchester Rail Trail, the Stratton Mountain Bike Park, and many others. For more information on these trails, I highly recommend checking out their website.

5. Visit a State Park

Vermont boasts over 50 state parks, offering visitors and locals plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. One of the top spots for camping and outdoor activities is Emerald Lake State Park, located just about 20 minutes from Manchester.

6. Swim the Dorset Marble Quarry

If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, the Dorset Marble Quarry is a must-visit. It’s a wonderful spot to soak in the scenic views and enjoy a refreshing swim.

7. Marble Rail Trail

The Marble Rail Trail is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a leisurely bike ride on a historic trail. Originally used to transport marble from Manchester to New York City, the railroad line’s extension was never completed, leading to the removal of the rails. Over time, the path became overgrown, but local residents saw its potential and transformed it into the Marble Rail Trail, offering a unique experience for visitors and locals alike.

8. Visit Bromley Mountain Adventure Park

Bromley Mountain Adventure Park is a fabulous destination to visit from Memorial Day through mid-October. True to its name, the park offers a variety of exciting activities, including an alpine slide, giant swing, waterslide, mini golf, climbing wall, and much more. It’s the perfect spot for the whole family to enjoy a day of fun and adventure.

9. Try Fly Fishing in Manchester, Vermont

If you’re an angler or looking to try something new, consider going fly fishing in the Manchester area. The area has several outstanding spots for fishing, and the town is also home to the American Museum of Fly Fishing. This museum is a wonderful place to explore the history of fly fishing, learn best practices, and deepen your knowledge of the sport.

10. Go Disc Golfing in Manchester, Vermont

Another enjoyable outdoor activity to try is disc golfing. Whether you’re an experienced disc golfer or a beginner, Hunter Park is the spot to visit.

11. Golf in Manchester, Vermont

Manchester is also a superb destination for golf enthusiasts. Three top golf courses in the area are the Equinox Golf Resort and Spa, Tater Hill Golf Course, and Stratton Mountain Golf Course. If possible, bring your clubs along on your Vermont getaway to enjoy a round of 9 or 18 holes and take in the scenic views from the courses.

12. Manchester, Vermont Skiing

If you’re heading to the area in the winter, make sure to hit the nearby slopes. Top spots include Bromley Mountain Resort for skiing or their Alpine Slide, Wild Wings Ski & Yoga for a mix of skiing and yoga, Stratton Mountain with its Coca-Cola Tube Park, and Viking Nordic Center for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more.

13. Take a Yoga Class in Manchester, Vermont

There’s something special about practicing yoga in the mountains, and Manchester offers a few great spots to do just that. One of the top choices is Heart of the Village Yoga, where you can find a variety of classes to help you find your zen.

14. Visit the Manchester Skatepark

If you’re into skateboarding, biking, or scootering, the Manchester Skatepark is the place to check out.

15. Go Snowmobiling in Manchester, Vermont

Another fantastic winter activity to try is snowmobiling. Vermont Mountain Adventures offers memorable snowmobiling tours that are worth checking out.

Other Manchester, Vermont Activities

Beyond all of those awesome outdoor activities mentioned above. Here are a few additional experiences in the area that are worth exploring:

16. Play Games at Pastime Pinball

As the name suggests, Pastime Pinball is a nostalgic arcade filled with countless pinball machines. It’s a fun place to visit and relive some classic memories.

17. Attend the Manchester Music Festival

The Manchester Music Festival celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024. This annual event brings together emerging and seasoned artists to perform classical music. It’s a fantastic event to experience and well worth planning your trip around.

18. Take Part in the Land Rover Experience

The Land Rover Experience is a truly unique activity in the area. It offers the thrill of driving a Land Rover through challenging off-road conditions like rocky terrain and steep hills. It’s like being in a car commercial and a fun way to develop new driving skills! You can pick from various experiences and durations while learning from an expert instructor as you navigate different terrain.

19. Take a Ride on Mount Equinox Skyline Drive

The Mount Equinox Skyline Drive offers a scenic drive up the highest peak in the Taconic Range. As the name suggests, it’s a picturesque route with stunning views, especially at the summit. While there’s a $25 fee, the amazing scenery makes it well worth the cost.

20. Visit Robert Frost Stone House Museum

If you’re a history or poetry enthusiast, the Robert Frost Stone House Museum is a place you must check out. The poet lived in this house for nine years, and today, visitors can explore the home and its orchard while learning about his life and work.

21. Visit a Farm or Farmer’s Market

Another enjoyable activity in Vermont is visiting a farm or farmer’s market. Some great options in the area are the West River Farmers’ Market, Manchester Farmers’ Market, and North Meadow Farm. At these markets, you can shop for local goods, and at North Meadow Farm, you can also visit their petting farm to interact with cows, pigs, goats, and more.

22. Take in Some Art

Vermont offers a wealth of incredible destinations for art enthusiasts. Top spots include the Ellenbogen Gallery, Southern Vermont Arts Center, and 3 Pears Gallery.

If live performances are more your style, visit the Dorset Theatre or the Weston Playhouse.

23. Go Shopping

Finally, don’t miss out on shopping in the area. While some locals think the outlets are overrated, book lovers will definitely enjoy a visit to the Northshire Bookstore.

The Best Instagram Spot in Manchester

Retha believes Manchester is a photographer’s paradise thanks to its spectacular mountain scenery. Some standout spots for capturing gorgeous photos include Hildene, Mad Tom Orchard, and the various hiking trails in the area.

The Two Best Spots in Manchester for Sunset

When it comes to capturing those dreamy sunset photos, Manchester has some unbelievable spots. The Hill Farm Inn is a top choice, offering perfect views for sunset photography right from the property.

For those who enjoy a bit of a hike, consider trekking along the Appalachian Trail/Long Trail to Bromley Mountain. (Note that this is different from the Bromley Mountain Ski Area.) This section of the Appalachian Trail leads you to a summit with spectacular 360-degree views, making it a stunning location for sunset. Just be sure to arrive a few minutes before sunset and bring a flashlight or headlamp for the hike back down.

An Overrated Spot in Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, Vermont, is a hidden gem filled with fun experiences, breathtaking views, and a special ambiance in the fall. While nearly everything in town offers a great experience, shopping at the outlets is a bit overrated. 

The outlets aren’t a bad option if you want to save money. However, since outlet malls exist across the country, I recommend focusing on the natural beauty and outdoor activities that make Vermont unique instead of including outlet shopping in your itinerary.

Places to Stay in Manchester, Vermont

Though Manchester is a relatively small town, there are several accommodation options to choose from. Keep reading as I highlight the best choices to help make your decision easier.

A Manchester, Vermont B&B

There’s nothing more quintessentially Vermont than staying at a cozy B&B nestled in the mountains. Here is a map highlighting some of the best options in the area:

Hotel Options in Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, Vermont, has a variety of adorable hotels. Below, I’ve highlighted some of my favorites and Retha’s favorite, which she mentioned in the podcast.

Manchester, Vermont Hotel Mentioned:

The Hill Farm Inn is one of the top hotels in the area, and Retha highly recommends it to visitors. Set on an old farm, it offers stunning views of a picturesque valley and mountains. While it’s beautiful at any time of day, it truly comes alive in the evenings when the sunset paints the sky with countless colors of blues, pinks, purples, and more.

Budget Option:

For a budget-friendly option, check out The Inn at Manchester. This cozy bed and breakfast is known for its homey atmosphere, delicious breakfast, lovely garden, and outdoor pool. It’s a charming choice for those seeking a small-town experience.

Middle Tier Option:

An excellent mid-range option is The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa. This hotel is quintessential for guests who enjoy golfing or the spa. It also offers a variety of restaurants and bars, making it the perfect choice for a comprehensive resort experience.

Splurge Option:

If you want to indulge a bit during your Vermont getaway, the Kimpton Taconic Hotel is an outstanding choice. Known for its beautiful outdoor pool, spacious rooms, impressive fitness center, and on-site restaurant, it’s the perfect hotel for a lavish stay in the Vermont mountains.

Camping near Manchester

As a former full-time RVer and avid camper, I believe camping is one of the best ways to experience any place’s beauty. If you want to camp near Manchester, I recommend Emerald Lake State Park. 

Located in East Dorset, not far from the Dorset Trails, this park offers a variety of tent and RV sites, making it a great choice for those wanting to explore fantastic hiking trails. 

Additionally, it’s situated on Emerald Lake, a perfect spot for enjoying water activities during the summer months.

Manchester, Vermont Restaurants

Although Manchester is a small town, there are several excellent places to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Next, I’ll highlight the best dining options in the area.

Manchester, Vermont Restaurants Mentioned:

Retha suggested three local spots for Manchester’s best breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here’s what makes each one stand out:

Little Rooster Café

The Little Rooster Café is a quaint spot with indoor and outdoor seating in the heart of downtown. It’s superb for soaking up the local atmosphere and watching the world go by. Known for its delicious pancakes topped with real Vermont maple syrup, it’s a great place to kick off your day.

Thai Basil

Thai Basil is a must-visit if you’re a fan of Thai cuisine. Located downtown, it offers indoor and outdoor seating. Their menu features delicious Pad Thai, potstickers, and an array of impressive appetizers and desserts. It’s an excellent spot for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Zoey’s Deli

Last but definitely not least, Retha recommends Zoey’s Deli for dinner. Known for their delicious sandwiches, you can enjoy your meal at the deli or take it to go. One of the best ways to enjoy it is to grab a sandwich and savor it during a sunset hike in the area!

More Places To Eat In Manchester, Vermont

If you’re in the area for more than a night (which I highly recommend to fully experience the local vibe and activities), check out these additional spots for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Where to Have Breakfast in Manchester, Vermont

The Works Cafe is another excellent breakfast choice in the area. Known for its bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and smoothies, it’s ideal for grabbing a quick bite or picking up something to go before heading out for activities like hiking.

If you’re looking for another option in the area, check out Charlie’s Coffee House. It’s very dog-friendly, making it excellent for pet owners. They’re known for their amazing coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and various pastries, including muffins and croissants.

Where to Have Lunch in Manchester, Vermont

The Copper Grouse is a fantastic spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but lunch really shines here. They offer hearty tavern fare such as wings, truffle fries, and burgers. It’s the ideal place for a relaxed and hearty lunch.

Where to Have Dinner in Manchester, Vermont

Ye Olde Tavern is a great spot for dinner, offering American cuisine with a New England twist. They’re famous for their fritters and pot roast, but you can’t go wrong with any of their dishes.

Another excellent choice is the Silver Fork, which is ideal for a more upscale and romantic dining experience. They offer delicious crab cakes and onion soup and are renowned for their bread pudding soufflé.

Manchester, Vermont Travel Itinerary Map

Conclusion: Tips from a Local on Outdoorsy Things to Do in Manchester, Vermont

Manchester is a small Vermont town that is easy to miss if you’re not “in the know.” However, it is worth a visit for its cozy small-town charm, fantastic outdoor activities, and breathtaking mountain views. It’s a great place to visit any time of year, but it stands out in the fall when the trees burst into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Whether you’re camping, hiking, mountain biking, or just enjoying the shops and restaurants downtown, Manchester offers a peaceful escape from city life. This hidden gem is well worth the trip.

With local tips and insights from people like Retha, your time in this town will be full of great experiences, a welcoming atmosphere, and lasting memories.

For more Vermont activity ideas, check out this post that Retha has put together.

Would You Rather Listen to This Information? Give the Podcast Episode a Listen:

Click here to listen to this episode of Locals Know Best! [Now also on Youtube!]

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please email me and let me know what your favorite part was!

If you’ve enjoyed the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It’s super easy; click here and go to “ratings and reviews.” I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates. 

Pin it for later:

You’ll Also Enjoy:
👉 Locals Know Best Podcast Ep. 002: Colorado Springs, Colorado, Playing Beneath the Mountains in Colorado Springs, Colorado 
👉 Locals Know Best Podcast Ep. 025: Livingston, Montana, Where Cowboys and Artists Meet
👉 Locals Know Best Podcast Ep. 015: Branson, Missouri, a Cheesy Yet Charming Hub for Seeing the Ozarks