10 Fun Things To Do Near North Troy, Vermont (Orleans County)
If you love quiet small towns, big mountain views, and that classic “only-in-Vermont” charm,
North Troy, Vermont is a spot you’ll want on your radar. Tucked up in
Orleans County, just a few minutes from the Canadian border, this tiny village is surrounded by farms, forests, and some of the prettiest countryside in New England.
Whether you’re road-tripping through northern Vermont, visiting nearby friends and family, or looking for a peaceful base for your next ski or hiking getaway, there’s more to do around North Troy than you might expect.
Below are
10 things to do near North Troy, VT—all easy day trips that show off the best of this part of the state.
1. Hit the Slopes at Jay Peak Resort
Let’s start with the big one. About 15–20 minutes from North Troy,
Jay Peak Resort is the area’s superstar.
In winter, Jay Peak is known for:
- Legendary snowfall (some of the best in the East)
- Over 70 trails for all levels
- Glade skiing and riding for adventurous folks
But here’s the thing: it’s not just a winter place.
In spring, summer, and fall, you can:
- Ride the tram to the summit for huge mountain views
- Hike along the ridgeline on the Long Trail
- Play a round at the Jay Peak golf course
If you’re staying in or near North Troy, Jay Peak is close enough that you can pop over for just a few hours of skiing, hiking, or a scenic ride and be back in time for dinner.
2. Splash Around at the Jay Peak Pump House Indoor Waterpark
Even if skiing isn’t your thing, you might still want to head up to Jay Peak for the
Pump House Indoor Waterpark. This is a huge hit with families, couples, and anyone who just wants to feel like a kid again.
Inside this glass-covered waterpark you’ll find:
- Waterslides that twist and turn
- An indoor lazy river
- A big hot tub area
- A surf wave you can actually ride
On a gray Vermont day, stepping into warm, humid air and hearing the sound of water and laughter feels almost tropical. It’s an easy half-day trip from North Troy, and you don’t have to be staying at the resort to buy a day pass (just check availability ahead of time, especially on weekends and holidays).
3. Walk (or Bike) the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail
If you like gentle, scenic exploring, the nearby
Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail is a winner. While the main trail runs more through Franklin County to the west, you’ll find connecting quiet backroads and local spurs within an easy drive from North Troy.
The trail itself is:
- About 26 miles long overall
- Mostly flat, packed gravel—no steep climbs
- Open to walkers, bikers, and in winter, snowshoers and cross-country skiers
The route follows old railroad corridors through:
- Wide-open farm fields
- Rivers and wetland views
- Small classic Vermont villages
It’s perfect if you prefer
easy outdoor activity instead of big summit hikes. Pack snacks, toss your bikes in the car, and enjoy a mellow ride with views in every direction.
4. Explore Downtown Newport on Lake Memphremagog
About 20–25 minutes south of North Troy, you’ll find
Newport, Vermont, the largest town on the U.S. side of
Lake Memphremagog. It’s still small by city standards, but it has a nice little downtown right on the water.
Things to do in Newport:
- Stroll the waterfront boardwalk with views across the lake into Canada
- Grab coffee, ice cream, or a casual meal at a local café
- Browse locally made goods and Vermont gifts
- Enjoy a lakeside picnic at Prouty Beach
On summer weekends you might catch:
- Small festivals or local events
- Outdoor music
- Farmers markets with fresh local produce
If you’re staying in or near North Troy and want a bit more “town,” Newport is where you’ll likely go for groceries, dining, or a low-key evening by the water.
5. Paddle or Boat on Lake Memphremagog
While you’re in the Newport area, it’s worth getting out
on Lake Memphremagog, not just looking at it.
On the Vermont side, you can:
- Rent kayaks or canoes in season
- Launch your own boat from public access points
- Enjoy calm morning paddles when the water is glassy
The lake stretches north into Quebec, so the views feel big and open. On clear days, you can see mountains rolling away in the distance. Early morning and late afternoon are especially peaceful, with loons calling and gentle waves lapping at the shore.
If you’re in North Troy and craving a “big water” experience, this is your go-to spot.
6. Drive the Scenic Backroads Around North Troy and Lowell
One of the simple joys of northern Vermont is just… driving. The backroads around
North Troy,
Lowell, and other Orleans County towns are full of:
- Rolling dairy farms
- Red barns and old silos
- Streams and small covered bridges
- Mountains rising up to the west and south
This is especially beautiful in:
- Fall, when the foliage turns bright red, orange, and gold
- Late spring, when fields turn bright green and wildflowers appear
You don’t need a set route. Just:
- Fill your gas tank
- Bring a map or GPS (cell service can be spotty)
- Wander slow and stop wherever something catches your eye
If you’re into photography, you’ll find endless classic Vermont scenes within a 10–20 mile radius of North Troy.
7. Hike the Long Trail or Nearby Mountain Trails
If you’re a hiker, this part of Vermont is a quiet paradise. The famous
Long Trail—a hiking path that runs the length of Vermont from Massachusetts to Canada—passes not far from North Troy, especially near Jay Peak.
Popular options in the area include:
- Jay Peak via the Long Trail – A steeper, more challenging hike with huge payoff views at the top.
- Shorter out-and-back segments of the Long Trail if you just want a taste.
What you can expect:
- Forest paths with roots and rocks (wear sturdy shoes)
- Cool shade on hot summer days
- Expansive views across northern Vermont and into Canada from higher points
Always check trail conditions, bring water, and be ready for weather changes—especially in shoulder seasons. Cloudy mornings often turn into sunny afternoons, and vice versa.
8. Visit Local Farms and Farm Stands
Northern Vermont is true farm country, and that’s part of what makes staying near North Troy feel so real and grounded. You’ll see cows grazing, barns with hay stacked high, and tractors heading up small dirt roads.
Keep an eye out for:
- Roadside farm stands with honor boxes
- Fresh eggs, maple syrup, and seasonal produce
- Handmade jams, honey, and baked goods
Some tips:
- Carry small bills and some cash—many stands are self-serve.
- Buy local Vermont maple syrup to take home as a souvenir or gift.
- Ask locals or your host for their favorite farm stands; they’ll usually know a hidden gem or two.
Grabbing a few fresh items and building your own picnic might end up being one of your favorite memories from the trip.
9. Take a Day Trip to Kingdom Trails & Burke Mountain
If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive (roughly an hour, give or take, from North Troy), heading south into the heart of Vermont’s
Northeast Kingdom opens up a whole new set of options.
In the Burke / East Burke area you’ll find:
- Kingdom Trails – Famous for mountain biking, with miles of well-maintained trails.
- Burke Mountain – Skiing in winter, hiking and mountain biking in summer.
Even if you’re not a hardcore biker, simply walking a section of the trails or enjoying a scenic chairlift ride (when available) is a great way to soak up the forest feel and mountain views.
It’s a bit of a trek from North Troy, but that’s what makes it a good
day trip—explore, grab lunch in East Burke, and head back to your quiet base up north.
10. Relax and Unplug in Tiny North Troy Itself
One of the best things to do near North Troy… is nothing much at all.
This is the kind of place where you:
- Hear more cows than cars
- See stars bright overhead on clear nights
- Wake up to birds and distant roosters instead of traffic
Ways to enjoy North Troy’s slower pace:
- Take an evening walk through the village streets.
- Sit on a porch with a book and a warm drink.
- Watch the sun set behind the hills and listen as the world gets quiet.
In a busy world, that kind of calm is a rare luxury.
Planning Your Trip to North Troy, Vermont
Here are a few simple tips to make your visit smoother:
- Getting there: You’ll almost certainly want a car. North Troy is rural, and public transit options are very limited.
- Best time to visit:
- Winter – Skiing and snowboarding at Jay Peak.
- Summer – Hiking, paddling, and farm stands.
- Fall – Stunning foliage and scenic drives.
- Spring – Maple sugaring season (just expect some muddy roads).
- What to pack: Layers, a rain jacket, good walking or hiking shoes, and a camera.
- Cell service: It can be spotty in the backroads—download maps ahead of time.
Final Thoughts: Why North Troy Is Worth a Stop
North Troy, Vermont, isn’t a place of big crowds or flashy attractions. Instead, it offers:
- Easy access to Jay Peak and outdoor adventures
- Quiet country roads and lakeside escapes
- A real taste of rural Orleans County life
If you’re planning a Vermont road trip or looking for a peaceful base near the Canadian border, consider adding North Troy to your list. You might come for the skiing or the hiking… but you’ll remember the slower pace, the views, and the small moments in between.
What Did We Miss? Share Your North Troy Favorites
Have you spent time in
North Troy or elsewhere in northern Vermont?
- Do you have a favorite hike, farm stand, or scenic drive in Orleans County?
- Any must-visit spots near Jay Peak or Lake Memphremagog?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips and discover hidden gems.
And if you found this guide useful, please
share it with a friend or on your favorite social media. It’s a simple way to support small-town Vermont travel and help more people discover this quiet corner of the Northeast Kingdom.
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