10 Best Things to Do Near Jeffersonville, Vermont (Lamoille County)

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Jeffersonville, Vermont (Lamoille County)

If you’re dreaming about a laid-back Vermont getaway with mountain views, covered bridges, and small-town charm, Jeffersonville, VT in Lamoille County deserves a spot on your list. This little village sits at the foot of Smugglers’ Notch and offers year‑round outdoor fun, local flavor, and that mellow Vermont vibe so many people fall in love with. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from Boston or a longer New England road trip, there’s plenty to do within a short drive. Below are 10 things to do in and around Jeffersonville, Vermont that will keep you busy in every season.

1. Hit the Slopes at Smugglers’ Notch Resort

Just a few minutes from downtown Jeffersonville, Smugglers’ Notch Resort (locals call it “Smuggs”) is one of Vermont’s most family‑friendly ski mountains. In winter you’ll find:
  • Over 1,000 acres of skiing and riding terrain
  • Beginner slopes and long cruising blues
  • Glades and steeps for advanced skiers and snowboarders
  • Kids’ ski school and daycare options
If you’re not into downhill skiing, don’t worry. Smuggs also offers:
  • Snowshoeing and cross‑country trails
  • Snow tubing
  • Indoor pools and hot tubs
In summer, the mountains switch gears:
  • Scenic hiking trails
  • Disc golf courses
  • Zip lines and treetop adventures
  • Outdoor pools and water slides
If you prefer to stay right in the action, you can book a condo at the resort. If you like quieter evenings, Jeffersonville village is close enough that you can ski all day and then relax in town.

2. Drive (or Hike) Through Historic Smugglers’ Notch Pass

The narrow, winding road over Smugglers’ Notch is one of the most scenic drives in northern Vermont. It’s also packed with history. Long ago, the pass was used by smugglers sneaking goods between the U.S. and Canada—hence the name. When the road is open (roughly late spring through fall), you can:
  • Take a slow drive past massive boulders and sheer cliffs
  • Pull off at small parking areas for short walks
  • Stop for photos of those classic Vermont mountain views
If you like to hike, there are several trailheads right off the Notch Road. You can find:
  • Easy trails suitable for families
  • Steeper routes that climb to exposed summits
Just keep in mind: the road is very twisty, with tight turns and rock walls on both sides. Drive carefully, especially in fog or rain.

3. Float Down the Lamoille River by Canoe, Kayak, or Tube

On a warm summer day, few things beat a lazy float down the Lamoille River. Jeffersonville sits right along the river, and several local outfitters offer:
  • Canoe and kayak rentals
  • Inner tube rentals
  • Shuttle services so you don’t have to worry about the car
The Lamoille is generally gentle around Jeffersonville, with slow moving water and wide open views of the Green Mountains. It’s a great option for:
  • Families with kids
  • First‑time paddlers
  • Anyone who just wants to relax and let the current do the work
Pack:
  • Plenty of water
  • Sunscreen
  • A dry bag for your phone and keys
If you’ve ever thought, “I just want a simple, peaceful day in nature,” this is it.

4. Walk or Bike the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail

Right in Jeffersonville, you can hop on the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, a long, mostly flat trail that follows an old railroad line across northern Vermont. Why people love this trail:
  • It’s wide, packed gravel—good for walking, biking, strollers, and casual jogs.
  • The grade is gentle, so you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy it.
  • You get classic Vermont scenery: barns, fields, river views, and mountains.
You can:
  • Take a short, easy walk right from Jeffersonville
  • Ride several miles out and back for a half‑day adventure
If you don’t want to pack your own bike, check for local bike rentals in or near the village. It’s an easy way to explore without needing a car once you’re there.

5. Stroll Through Jeffersonville Village and Hunt for Local Art

Jeffersonville might be small, but it has a creative side. The village has long been a quiet hub for artists who are drawn to the surrounding landscape. Spend a couple of hours:
  • Walking the compact downtown streets
  • Popping into local galleries and studios
  • Checking out paintings, photography, pottery, and handmade crafts
You’ll find that many artists focus on:
  • Vermont’s changing seasons
  • Local farms and barns
  • Mountain and river scenes
Even if you’re not looking to buy anything big, it’s fun to pick up a small print or card as a reminder of your trip. Plus, you’re supporting local creators, which always feels good.

6. Sample Local Food and Craft Beer

One of the joys of visiting small Vermont towns is discovering cozy spots to eat and drink. In and around Jeffersonville, you’ll find:
  • Casual cafés and diners serving big breakfasts and homemade pies
  • Pubs and taverns with Vermont craft beer on tap
  • Farm‑to‑table restaurants using local cheese, maple, and produce
A few ideas:
  • Start your day with a hearty stack of pancakes covered in real Vermont maple syrup.
  • Grab a Vermont IPA or a crisp lager after a day on the slopes or hiking trails.
  • Look for menus that feature local farms—many places proudly list their sources.
If you enjoy tasting new beers, consider a mini “brew tour” around Lamoille County. Several small breweries are a short drive away, each with its own vibe and tap list.

7. Visit Nearby Stowe for a Day Trip

One of the perks of staying in Jeffersonville is that you’re close to Stowe, Vermont, a well‑known mountain town about a 35–45 minute drive away (depending on route and season). Stowe offers:
  • A charming village with shops, galleries, and cafés
  • The famous Stowe Recreation Path for walking and biking
  • Access to Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, consider:
  • Riding the gondola for big mountain views
  • Hiking one of the well‑marked trails
  • Stopping for ice cream or coffee in the village afterward
Then, head back to quieter Jeffersonville to unwind. It’s a nice balance: one day in a busier tourist town, the next day chilling by the river.

8. Go Leaf Peeping in Fall (From Your Car or on Foot)

Fall in northern Vermont is the kind of thing people put on bucket lists. If you time it right, the hills around Jeffersonville explode with color—reds, oranges, and golds everywhere you look. Some easy ways to enjoy fall foliage near Jeffersonville:
  • Take a slow drive along Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch (when open)
  • Walk or bike a stretch of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail
  • Find a roadside farm stand and take in the views while you shop
You don’t have to climb a mountain to see incredible color. Honestly, some of the best leaf‑peeping is just pulling over safely at a turnout and taking a few minutes to soak it in. Tip: Early October is often a sweet spot for color here, but foliage changes each year, so check Vermont’s online foliage reports when planning your trip.

9. Discover Local Farms, Maple Syrup, and Country Stores

Vermont and maple syrup go hand in hand, and Jeffersonville is no exception. Around Lamoille County, you’ll find:
  • Maple sugarhouses (especially active in late winter and early spring)
  • Roadside farm stands with fresh veggies, eggs, and flowers
  • Old‑fashioned country stores with creaky floors and shelves full of local products
Look for:
  • Pure Vermont maple syrup in glass jugs
  • Maple candy and maple cream (dangerously addictive)
  • Local cheeses and jams to snack on back at your lodging
If you’re lucky enough to visit during “sugaring season” (roughly March and early April), you might even see steam rolling out of a sugarhouse and get a taste of warm syrup right from the evaporator.

10. Snowshoe, Cross‑Country Ski, or Just Play in the Snow

Winter doesn’t begin and end at the ski resort. The countryside around Jeffersonville is perfect for quieter winter fun. You can:
  • Rent snowshoes and explore local trails or fields
  • Try cross‑country skiing at nearby Nordic centers
  • Build a snowman or have a snowball fight right outside your cabin
If you’ve never snowshoed, it’s kind of like hiking with big, flat shoes that keep you from sinking too deep. It’s easier than it looks and a great way to:
  • Get fresh air
  • Burn off that extra maple candy
  • Enjoy quiet, snowy woods without crowds
On clear nights, step outside and look up. Away from big city lights, the winter sky around Jeffersonville can be incredibly bright with stars.

Planning Your Trip to Jeffersonville, Vermont

A few quick tips to make the most of your visit to Jeffersonville and Lamoille County:
  • When to go:
    • Winter – Best for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
    • Spring – Quieter, with maple season and early wildflowers.
    • Summer – Perfect for hiking, biking, river trips, and long evenings outside.
    • Fall – Iconic foliage and cool, comfortable weather.
  • Where to stay:
    • Condos and rentals at Smugglers’ Notch Resort
    • Inns, B&Bs, and vacation rentals in or near Jeffersonville village
  • What to pack:
    • Layers—Vermont weather can change fast
    • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
    • Swimwear for summer river trips or resort pools
    • Warm hats and gloves for fall and winter nights

Ready to Explore Jeffersonville?

Jeffersonville, Vermont may not be a big city, but that’s exactly the point. It’s a place where you can:
  • Wake up to mountain views
  • Spend the day outside—on the river, on the trail, or on the slopes
  • End the evening with a good meal and a quiet walk through town
If you’re looking for a low‑key, nature‑focused getaway in the Green Mountains, this corner of Lamoille County is a wonderful base. Have you been to Jeffersonville or anywhere else in northern Vermont? I’d love to hear what you enjoyed most, or what you’re hoping to do on your first visit. Share this post with a friend who’s planning a Vermont trip, and drop a comment below with your favorite things to do near Jeffersonville—or any questions you have about visiting.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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