Recreation
Waterbury is called "Vermont's Recreational Crossroads," meaning fast access to an unlimited variety of diversions during all seasons of the year. Let's start with outdoor sports. It was in this part of Vermont that American skiing got its start, at Stowe in the 1930's.
Today, within a fifteen mile radius of Waterbury are four major ski areas, with hundreds of miles of the best skiing terrain in the east, downhill and cross country. Both Stowe and Sugarbush are world class resorts with all of the attendant facilities expected in a top vacation area.
By way of contrast, Mad River Glen tries to maintain skiing as it used to be, in an unspoiled natural environment, with very limited intrusion of artificial "improvements."
Family-friendly Bolton Valley rounds out the areas with stellar views of Lake Champlain, the highest base-elevation in Vermont, and affordable rates.
Along with skiing and snowboarding, snow shoeing the back country has gained numerous adherents. Sleigh rides, snowmobiles, ice skating and even dog sledding make up the winter roster of activities.
Outdoor sports in the summer offer an even greater selection to the enthusiast. The Green Mountain Forest is next door with two of Vermont's highest peaks (Camel's Hump and Mount Mansfield) overlooking the valley. Hiking and mountain biking start at the edge of town. Two miles away, a 900 acre lake with a manicured picnic area and boat launch access is open to swimming, boating, or fishing. Stream fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the Winooski River at a trophy trout stretch just at the edge of town. Others might want to canoe down beautiful and mildly challenging runs starting in Waterbury. Local canoe outfitters can supply the gear.
For those whose tastes are less active, sightseeing and touring bring their own rewards. Scenery around Waterbury matches the best found in the Eastern US. Towering mountains, lush farm studded valleys, rushing streams, covered bridges and quaint villages still present a picture of America as it used to be. In the fall this whole panorama blazes with Autumn color. Numerous antique shops along the way heighten a sense of history and America's antecedents, brought into sharp focus at the Shelburne Museum or at Shelburne Farms along Lake Champlain. Most of these tours can be completed in two or three hours. Add an hour for lunch or shopping along the way.
