By Lisa Katz Sklar.
My family has been going to Smugglers Notch in Vermont for the last 18 years. Each time we go, the entire drive we reminisce about the last time we were there. All I can hear in the back seat is “do you remember when we did …”. I always feel the excitement build from my kids who are all young adults now.
A must stop on the drive up is the town of Northampton. It’s a cute, scenic college town with many good restaurants and is very doggie friendly!
Once we are at Smuggs, hiking in the streams down Madonna Mountain is always a treat. As young as 4 years of age can do this “wike” (hike/walk) and enjoy the gorgeous views. Every time we take these walks we are blown away by the immense greenery and calming rush of the rivers.
Later, we often hang out at one of the awesome pools where we can bungee jump and swing from high above the trees, as well as ride down the many different water slides.
We love our cookouts by the condo and the walk down the mountain after dinner for Ben and Jerry’s. If the location at the resort doesn’t have the flavor you want, the original Ben and Jerry’s factory is right when you get off the exit. Tours go on daily. Stop by for a sweet treat and to learn something new about the ice cream making process.
Many stays we are off to the Lamoille River for kayaking. It’s about a two hour ride down and the river is as calm as the morning breeze off the mountain. It is a slow moving, relaxing and beautiful landscape.
If you venture off the property, local hiking includes Cady park and the Brewster River Park. There are also amazing swimming holes and waterfalls only half a mile from the covered bridge in town.
Smuggs also has its own lakes that you can hike to if you would like to stay on the property. Once you arrive there is boating and swimming available.
Fourth of July is celebrated with a big country carnival and food trucks as well as amazing fireworks. Other evening activities include an outdoor movie on the village green, dance offs and bingo. Once the kids turn in for the night, there is adult entertainment too. There is usually a great comedy show or live music playing in the lodge. The resort provides excellent babysitting services.
As for Smuggs in the winter, we love the skiing as much as we love the summer outdoor activities. You can’t go wrong in either season. It’s truly a place for everyone at any age
Say hi to Goodtime Charlie for us if you go up!
