Cross Country Skiing on the Catamount Trail in Vermont
Our charming small state of Vermont is truly a four-season destination, and right now, it’s all about planning for winter. One of our favorite pastimes is exploring the Catamount Trail on snowshoes or cross-country skis. The Catamount Trail, spanning the length of Vermont, is a picturesque 300-mile route. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the beautiful Vermont winter wonderland on the trail, which is divided into 31 well-groomed segments.
While only a handful of experienced cross-country skiers have completed the entire journey of the Catamount Trail, thousands of avid Nordic skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts enjoy the trail every winter season, whether for one-day excursions or extended vacations focused on this winter pastime. We also love to suggest the beautiful paths at Blueberry Lake and Ole’s Crossing for those longer trips. The winter recreation options in Vermont are a magical way to experience the beauty of our untouched wilderness, all while getting that ever-important exercise!
Before you start planning your cross-country skiing itinerary, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our Vermont Bed and Breakfast is one of the best places to stay! Not only are we directly along the route of the Catamount Trail—we’re located within section 18, from Lincoln Gap to Route 17—but our beautiful nine-acre property is also a fantastic location to explore with snowshoes, and you’ll be near a handful of other excellent cross-country ski trails. The guest rooms at our cozy Inn are always warm and welcoming after a long day in the crisp sunshine and fresh powder. Start planning your winter getaway in Vermont, and book your lodging today!
Catamount Trail and More Cross-Country Ski Trails for Winter in Vermont
Our Vermont Bed and Breakfast is located next to two of the premier ski resorts, Sugarbush and Mad River Glen. While downhill skiing is one of the most popular winter pastimes, cross-country skiing is more accessible and can be learned in a shorter amount of time. Traditional Nordic skiing uses narrow skis on groomed trails, while backcountry skiing requires broader blades for more remote areas.
Plenty of options are available for people of all abilities near our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, including three excellent trail systems and a segment of the Catamount Trail right behind our Inn. Be sure to bring your own gear, and you’ll get to explore to your heart’s content!
- The Catamount Trail: The entire segment near our Vermont Bed and Breakfast spans roughly 11 miles and traverses a diverse range of terrain. This section runs directly behind our Inn and continues on to the Sugarbush Golf Course, where the route becomes gradual and easier to navigate. Our guests who enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing will love being close to this part of the Catamount Trail.
- Blueberry Lake: Located just ten minutes from our bed and breakfast, this Vermont cross-country skiing center offers 11 trails with over 20 miles of terrain ranging from easy to expert. Most of these groomed trails are wooded, but some open up into expansive meadows with breathtaking views. Ski and snowshoe rentals are available here, so there is no need to pack your own gear. Blueberry Lake also welcomes fat tire bikes, so if you’re up for it, you can try mountain biking in the snow, too!
- Ole’s Crossing: One of Vermont’s most popular cross-country skiing destinations is just five miles from our Inn. Ole’s boasts 12 trails of varying lengths and difficulties. The trails are interconnected, so you can create your route and continue skiing for as long as you like, provided you have the energy. You can rent ski and snowshoe equipment from the center on-site. The rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but there is usually plenty of gear to go around.
As a guest at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, be sure to take advantage of your innkeeper’s in-depth knowledge of the Mad River Valley and beyond, whether that be cross-country ski trails, hiking routes, transportation questions, or restaurant recommendations. This is just one more reason to stay small and benefit from a hosted bed-and-breakfast-style stay.
The Best Bed and Breakfast in Vermont for a White Christmas
Exploring the Catamount Trail and other cross-country ski trails in the area is such a lovely winter activity, but there’s nothing quite like wrapping up your day at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast. It’s the perfect cozy space to warm up by the fire with a hot drink or adult beverage. Our shared spaces at the inn offer plenty of comfortable places to relax over a game of pool, cards, or your favorite movie.
When it’s time to retreat to your guest room, you’ll feel right at home by the gas fire. Each of our nine guest rooms is unique with its own theme and layout, with really comfortable beds, luxurious linens, and robes. Each have a beautifully equipped en suite bathroom with tub and shower, most with jetted tubs and the others with steam showers. We often have repeat guests join us again to stay in a different room!
Another perk of staying at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast is the mornings! You’ll be pampered by our multi-course, home-cooked meal, prepared fresh and with care. Join us at our lively dining table for hot coffee and conversation— many a friendship has been formed at our breakfast table. When it’s time to bundle up and hit the Catamount Trail, you’ll be steps away from the stunning winter wonderland of Vermont. We can’t wait to host you! Book your lodging at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast today.
