Things to Do in Addison County

Addison County offers a diverse range of outdoor activities including hiking, road cycling, jogging, touring cycling, gravel biking, and mountain biking. The region features varied terrain from Lake Champlain shores to the Green Mountains. There are more than 200 routes available, with an average rating of 4.78 stars on komoot.

Popular hiking trails include the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM), an 18-mile (29 km) footpath, and sections of Vermont's Long Trail. Other notable areas for hiking are Snake Mountain and Mount Abraham. The Moosalamoo National Recreation Area also offers numerous trails.

Yes, Addison County offers several easy hikes suitable for families. Options include Sunset Ledge, Otter Creek Gorge, Chipman Hill, and Kingsland Bay State Park. The Robert Frost Interpretive Trail in Ripton is also a gentle path through woods and fields.

The Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) is an 18-mile (29 km) footpath that encircles the village of Middlebury. It connects conserved properties, schools, and local landmarks, offering varied scenery and views. The TAM is a popular route for hiking and jogging.

Addison County is known for scenic back roads and challenging mountain gaps, making it ideal for road and touring cycling. Five Lake Champlain Bikeways routes pass through Middlebury. The region also offers gravel biking opportunities, particularly in the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area.

The Moosalamoo National Recreation Area is a highlight for mountain bikers, featuring trails like the Chandler Ridge/Leicester Hollow Loop. Middlebury also has mountain biking networks at Chipman Hill, Means Woods, and Battell Forest. These areas offer diverse terrain for various skill levels.

Many trails in Addison County are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary by specific location or land manager. It is advisable to check local signage or park websites for current leash laws and restrictions before visiting. Always ensure dogs are under control and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Addison County features several natural landmarks including Lake Champlain, Otter Creek, and Lake Dunmore. The Green Mountains form the eastern boundary, and the Moosalamoo National Recreation Area offers cliffs, mountain lakes, and diverse wildlife. National Natural Landmarks like Battell Biological Preserve and Cornwall Marsh are also present.

The Addison County Chamber of Commerce serves as a primary resource for visitor information. Their official website, addisoncounty.com, provides details on local attractions and activities. You can also reach them by phone at (802) 388-7951 for assistance.

Komoot offers several guides for Addison County, including Hiking in Addison County, Easy hikes in Addison County, and Road Cycling Routes in Addison County. Other guides cover waterfall hikes, running trails, general cycling, gravel biking, and MTB trails.

The Moosalamoo National Recreation Area is located within the Green Mountain National Forest in Addison County. It features cliffs, mountain lakes, streams, and a rich diversity of plants and animals. The area is popular for hiking, biking, and exploring its extensive trail network.

Yes, Addison County offers challenging hikes, particularly in the Green Mountains. Mount Abraham and Snake Mountain provide more strenuous options with significant elevation gain. Portions of the Long Trail that traverse the county also present demanding sections for experienced hikers.