Ripton VermontATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ripton, Vermont.
1. Robert Frost Wayside Trail
POETIC NATURE WALK
Robert Frost Wayside Trail is a popular hiking trail in Ripton that celebrates the famous poet who lived in the area. The trail offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty that inspired Frost's poetry through peaceful woodland paths. Informational plaques featuring Frost's poems can be found along the trail, creating an immersive literary experience in nature.
2. Rikert Nordic Center
PREMIER CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Rikert Nordic Center is a highly-rated cross-country skiing facility offering well-maintained trails for winter enthusiasts. The center provides equipment rentals, lessons, and hosts various Nordic ski races and events throughout the winter season. During other seasons, visitors can enjoy the trails for hiking and mountain biking in the beautiful Green Mountain surroundings.
3. Middlebury Snowbowl
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SKI AREA
Middlebury Snowbowl is a beloved ski and snowboard area that offers slopes for all skill levels near Ripton. The area features reliable snow conditions, affordable lift tickets, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Owned by Middlebury College, the Snowbowl combines a relaxed atmosphere with quality skiing opportunities for visitors and locals alike.
4. Branbury State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Branbury State Park is a scenic recreational area offering swimming, hiking, and camping opportunities near Ripton. The park sits on the eastern shore of Lake Dunmore and features a sandy beach, picnic areas, and boat rentals. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing waters during summer months or explore the surrounding forest trails for a taste of Vermont's natural beauty.
5. Happy Valley Orchard
APPLE PICKING PARADISE
Happy Valley Orchard is a charming farm where visitors can pick their own apples and enjoy fresh cider. The orchard offers a variety of apple varieties throughout the harvest season and provides a quintessential Vermont agricultural experience. Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic setting and farm-fresh products available at this local favorite.
6. Spirit in Nature Interfaith Path Sanctuary
SPIRITUAL WOODLAND RETREAT
Spirit in Nature Interfaith Path Sanctuary offers a network of 13 interconnecting paths representing different spiritual traditions where people can walk, meditate, and reflect. The peaceful woodland setting provides a quiet escape with thoughtful quotes posted along the trails to inspire contemplation. This unique sanctuary combines natural beauty with spiritual elements for a restorative outdoor experience.
7. Ripton Country Store
HISTORIC LOCAL LANDMARK
The Ripton Country Store is a fabled local institution that serves as the only shopping option in tiny Ripton. This charming store offers snacks, supplies, and a taste of authentic Vermont country living. The current owners were attracted to the store after it was featured in a New York Times op-ed by Ripton resident and climate activist Bill McKibben.
8. Skylight Pond Trailhead
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
Skylight Pond Trailhead is the starting point for a popular hiking route through the Green Mountains. The trail leads to scenic Skylight Pond and offers spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Hikers can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of Vermont's forests while experiencing varying levels of terrain challenge.
9. Mount Moosalamoo
PANORAMIC SUMMIT VIEWS
Mount Moosalamoo is an impressive peak in the Green Mountains offering challenging hiking trails and rewarding panoramic views. The summit provides breathtaking vistas of the Champlain Valley, the Adirondacks, and surrounding Vermont landscape. Hikers particularly enjoy visiting in early October when the fall foliage creates a spectacular colorful tapestry across the mountains.
10. Ripton Community Coffee House
LOCAL MUSIC VENUE
Ripton Community Coffee House hosts a beloved concert series held on the first Saturday of each month. This local venue showcases talented musicians in an intimate, community-focused setting that brings residents and visitors together. The performances represent a vital part of Ripton's cultural scene and offer an authentic Vermont entertainment experience.
11. Bristol Falls
NATURAL SWIMMING HOLE
Bristol Falls is a stunning natural swimming hole located near Ripton that offers refreshing waters and beautiful scenery. The falls feature rocky ledges for jumping and deep pools perfect for cooling off during hot summer days. Locals and visitors alike treasure this natural gem as one of Vermont's most picturesque swimming spots.
12. Town Hall Theater
CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
Town Hall Theater is a vibrant performance venue in nearby Middlebury hosting a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The beautifully restored historic building showcases theater productions, musical performances, and film screenings. This cultural hub enriches the local arts scene and provides entertainment options for Ripton residents and visitors.
13. Lincoln Peak Vineyard
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Lincoln Peak Vineyard offers wine tastings and a popular outdoor concert series from May through September. Visitors can sample award-winning wines made from cold-hardy grapes specially cultivated for Vermont's climate. The picturesque setting provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying local music while sipping Vermont-made wines.
14. Bread Loaf Writer's Conference
PRESTIGIOUS LITERARY GATHERING
Bread Loaf Writer's Conference is a renowned literary event held in August at Middlebury College's Bread Loaf Campus in Ripton. The conference attracts emerging and established writers for workshops, readings, and collaborative literary exchange. Visitors can attend public readings by faculty, guests, and contributors during this prestigious gathering of literary minds.
15. Ripton Ridge Run
SCENIC COMMUNITY RACE
Ripton Ridge Run is an annual community event featuring 5K and 10K races alongside a 5K fun walk in October. Participants enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery while traversing the picturesque roads and trails of Ripton. The event brings together locals and visitors in a celebration of outdoor activity and community spirit.