Vermont’s Best Family Mountain Getaway, According To Good Housekeeping

Planning a family vacation to Vermont means choosing the right mountain resort where everyone can have fun together. Good Housekeeping recently highlighted one destination that stands out for its mix of outdoor adventures, cozy accommodations, and kid-friendly activities.

I’m excited to share what makes this Vermont mountain getaway perfect for your next family trip.

Trapp Family Lodge: A Sound of Music Legacy

You might recognize the name from the famous von Trapp family who inspired The Sound of Music. Their lodge sits on 2,500 acres of stunning mountain terrain in Stowe, offering your family an authentic Austrian experience right in New England.

Kids love exploring the meadows while parents appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. The resort blends European charm with Vermont’s natural beauty perfectly.

Year-Round Outdoor Adventures for All Ages

No matter when you visit, there’s always something exciting happening outdoors. Summer brings miles of hiking trails that wind through forests and meadows, while winter transforms the landscape into a cross-country skiing paradise.

Your little ones can try their first mountain bike ride on beginner-friendly paths. Even toddlers enjoy the nature walks designed specifically for young explorers.

Farm-to-Table Dining That Kids Actually Enjoy

Getting picky eaters to try new foods becomes easier when meals feature fresh ingredients from local farms. The lodge’s restaurants serve dishes made with Vermont cheese, maple syrup, and seasonal vegetables that taste incredible.

Breakfast pancakes topped with real maple syrup become a morning tradition. Your family can even tour nearby farms to see where the food comes from.

Cozy Accommodations with Mountain Views

After a day of adventures, you’ll appreciate returning to comfortable rooms designed with families in mind. Many accommodations feature separate sleeping areas for kids and stunning views of the Green Mountains from your private balcony.

Fireplaces add extra coziness on chilly evenings. Some rooms even include kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare snacks for hungry children between activities.

Maple Sugaring Experiences and Vermont Traditions

Nothing says Vermont quite like watching maple sap transform into golden syrup. During sugaring season, your family can visit the on-site sugar house to witness this sweet tradition firsthand and sample the delicious results.

Kids are fascinated watching the boiling process. You’ll learn why Vermont maple syrup tastes so much better than anything from the grocery store.

Cross-Country Skiing Trails That Welcome Beginners

Gliding through snow-covered forests on skis might sound intimidating, but Vermont’s beginner-friendly trails make it surprisingly accessible for families. Many resorts offer gentle, groomed paths where even first-timers can find their rhythm without the stress of steep hills. Kids love the freedom of moving at their own pace while parents appreciate the peaceful mountain scenery.

Equipment rentals are typically available right on-site, so you won’t need to invest in expensive gear before trying it out. Instructors often provide quick lessons that get everyone comfortable within the first hour. The activity burns energy while building confidence, making it ideal for restless youngsters who need outdoor time.

Pack hot cocoa in a thermos for trail breaks that become cherished family moments.

Educational Nature Programs for Young Explorers

Learning about Vermont’s ecosystem becomes an adventure through guided nature programs. Expert naturalists lead your children on discovery walks where they identify animal tracks, learn about native plants, and spot local wildlife in their natural habitat.

These hands-on experiences create lasting memories and spark curiosity about the environment. Your kids return home with newfound appreciation for nature’s wonders.

Historic Covered Bridge Tours and Photo Opportunities

Vermont boasts over 100 covered bridges, each with its own story and rustic charm that transports visitors back in time. These architectural treasures make fantastic photo backdrops and provide a gentle, educational adventure that doesn’t require athletic ability. Children become amateur historians as they explore these wooden wonders and learn why they were built with roofs.

Many bridges sit along scenic driving routes, turning the journey into part of the fun. You can create a scavenger hunt challenge where kids spot different bridge styles or collect photos at multiple locations. The experience combines fresh air, local history, and family bonding without exhausting little legs.

Bring a camera and let each family member take turns being the photographer for creative keepsakes.

Snowshoeing Adventures Through Quiet Winter Forests

Walking on top of deep snow feels almost magical, and snowshoeing makes this possible for families of all fitness levels. The equipment is simple to use – if you can walk, you can snowshoe – making it perfect for mixed-age groups. Vermont’s mountain trails transform into winter wonderlands where animal tracks tell stories and icicles sparkle like diamonds.

Unlike downhill skiing, snowshoeing lets families move together at a comfortable pace without separating by skill level. Many trails wind through forests where kids can spot wildlife signs and explore nature up close. The quiet crunch of snow underfoot creates a calming soundtrack that helps everyone disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other.

Most outdoor centers offer affordable rentals, including child-sized snowshoes for younger adventurers.

Convenient Access to Stowe Village Attractions

Just a short drive away, Stowe Village offers additional family entertainment and dining options. Browse local shops selling handmade crafts, enjoy ice cream on the village green, or explore galleries featuring Vermont artists.

The recreation path connects the village to surrounding areas, perfect for family bike rides. You’ll find everything from toy stores to bookshops that children adore exploring.

Swimming Pools and Recreation Centers

When weather doesn’t cooperate with outdoor plans, indoor facilities save the day. The heated pools let your kids splash around regardless of the temperature outside, and the recreation center offers games and activities for various age groups.

Teens appreciate having their own space to hang out. Parents can relax in the hot tub while keeping an eye on younger swimmers nearby.