Mark your calendar for the 7th Annual Vermont Blade and Camp, happening June 26–30, 2025! Get ready for a fun-filled weekend of rural skateparks and scenic swimming holes. This year’s route is a little different from previous years. We’re visiting fewer parks to give everyone more time to really enjoy our favorite spots and take advantage of swimming and exploring along the way. Big changes are coming in 2026, with 4–6 new concrete skateparks being built across Vermont. That means next year’s route will be completely revamped with more stops and possibly more driving—so think of this year as the calm before the storm, a perfect chance to revisit some of the classic parks we’ve come to love. Keep reading for all the details on this year’s route!
Donations for Facilities
Like for the past two year, are asking for donations to cover the costs of renting portable toilets for the two camping locations, which is close to $300. Your contributions will directly support the comfort and convenience of all participants. You can make donations through Venmo, using 1767 as the last four digits of the phone number if prompted. Alternatively, you can donate via PayPal by clicking here to directly access the PayPal donation page.
We anticipate a high turnout this year, with many first-time attendees joining us and some special guests. Get ready for an incredible gathering filled with new experiences, old favorites, and the contagious energy of passionate skaters.
FAQ
- What must I bring to have an enjoyable camping trip in Vermont?
- What should I expect in terms of bugs?
- How is Vermont’s weather during the event?
- Are dogs allowed?
- Can I eat the berries?
ButterTV’s Vermont Blade and Camp Edit
Check out the mini-documentary ButterTV made about the 5th Annual Vermont Blade and Camp to get a feel for what to expect!
Please note that this article is constantly updated with the latest information throughout the month and during the event. Any changes to the itinerary will be reflected here.
Thursday, June 26th
The 2025 Vermont Blade and Camp kicks off at Perseverance Skatepark in Brattleboro, Vermont. From there, we’ll take about an hour drive to skate the Ludlow Skatepark. After that session, we’re just 4 minutes away from Buttermilk Falls, a perfect spot to cool off with a swim. Once we’ve had our fill of skating and swimming, we’ll head about an hour north to Goshen, Vermont to set up camp at Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s place.
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Perseverance Skatepark – Brattleboro, VT
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Meet at Perseverance Skatepark atop the Brattleboro Ski Hill, a historic volunteer-run ski area to kick off the action at this fantastic concrete park. With diverse features, including hubba ledges, stairs, handrails, flat rail, euro gap, a-frame with rail, manual pads, banks, quarter pipes, and a thrilling bowl, there’s something for every skater to enjoy.
Perseverance Skatepark
157 Memorial Park Drive, Brattleboro, VT 05301
DIY Bridge Skatepark – Brattleboro, VT (Optional)
Before leaving Brattleboro, take a moment to explore a hidden gem—a DIY skatepark perched on an abandoned bridge next to the USN Seabees Bridge that crosses the Connecticut River, connecting Brattleboro and West Chesterfield, New Hampshire. It’s a unique spot worth checking out.
USN Seabees Bridge
NH-9, West Chesterfield, NH 03466
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Ludlow Skatepark
2:30 PM – 4:45 PM: We’ll be visiting Ludlow Skatepark, the newest concrete park in Vermont. It’s a super fun spot and was added to our itinerary for the first time just last year.
Dorsey Skate Park
Andover Street, Ludlow, VT 05149
Food Recommendations Ludlow
- Goodman’s American Pie – 5 Lamere Sq, Ludlow, VT 05149
- Killarney Irish Pub – 44 Pond St, Ludlow, VT 05149
- Mojo Cafe – 106 Main St, Ludlow, VT 05149
Buttermilk Falls
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Buttermilk Falls in Vermont is a scenic destination known for its waterfalls, pools, and picturesque surroundings. Located in Ludlow, it offers a refreshing spot for swimming and relaxation. After a day of skating, it is the perfect place to cool down and unwind. A short 0.5-mile trail leads to Buttermilk Falls, where upper and lower falls provide opportunities for a revitalizing swim. The upper falls feature two drops of 12-15 feet, flowing into a large swimming pool with clear water and a pebble-covered bottom. Meanwhile, the lower falls create a deep pool of olive-green water 25 feet wide.
Buttermilk Falls
From the center of Ludlow, VT, take Route 100 North. Turn left on Rt. 103. Buttermilk Falls Road is approximately 1.5 miles further on the right. Turn here and proceed to the end. The falls and Branch Brook are along the abandoned stretch of old Route 103.
Note: Park or walk to the very end of the road to get to the upper falls where we will meet.
Camping – Goshen, VT
We’ll be camping on Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s property in Goshen, Vermont on both Thursday and Friday nights. Be sure to download offline maps ahead of time, as there’s no cell service in the area. The property is beautiful and perfect for relaxing, hanging out, and exploring.
Myles Cotter-Sparrow Property
We’ll be camping at Myles’ place in Goshen, VT. The address will be shared at the skateparks on the day of the event, or you can message us on Instagram to get it.
Food Recommendations near Goshen
- 22 Park Eatery – 22 Park St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Morningside Bakery Wood-Fired Pizza and Provisions – 37 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Brandon House of Pizza – 16 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
Friday, June 27th
On Friday, we’re only skating one park—but it’s a big one and super popular. We’ll meet at 11:00 AM at the Manchester Skatepark, which is about 54 miles from Myles’ house in Goshen. After our session, we’ll take a short 7-minute drive (4.4 miles) to the Dorset Marble Quarry. It’s the oldest quarry in the U.S. and now a popular swimming hole—perfect for cooling off after skating.
Manchester Skatepark
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Our next destination is the recently completed Manchester Skatepark, the largest and most advanced skatepark facility in the region between Burlington and the Massachusetts border. This state-of-the-art skatepark located in Dana L. Thompson Memorial Park pays tribute to Southern Vermont’s unique landscape with its design. The street course features locally sourced marble elements from the Danby Marble Quarry, known for supplying marble for the New York City Public Library. Two conical “volcano” components represent the nearby mountains, while a stream of blue paint symbolizes the dynamic energy of the Battenkill River, running through the entire park.
Manchester Skatepark
340 Rec Park Road, Manchester Center, VT 05255
Food Recommendations Near Manchester
- Little Rooster Café – 4604 Main St, Manchester, VT 05255
- Bonnet & Main Café – 15 Bonnet St, Manchester Center, VT 05255
- The Works Café – 13 Riverside Heights, Manchester, VT 05255
Dorset Marble Quarry
5:00 PM- 6:00 PM: After skating at the Manchester Skatepark, we’ll head to the Dorset Marble Quarry—a stunning swimming hole set in the country’s first commercial marble quarry. Surrounded by dramatic stone walls and clear, deep water, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping. With ledges up to 30 feet high and grassy areas to relax, it’s an ideal spot to cool off and unwind in a one-of-a-kind Vermont setting.
Dorset Marble Quarry
1848 VT-30, Dorset, VT 05251
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Camping – Goshen, VT
We’ll be camping on Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s property in Goshen, Vermont on both Thursday and Friday nights. Be sure to download offline maps ahead of time, as there’s no cell service in the area. The property is beautiful and perfect for relaxing, hanging out, and exploring.
Myles Cotter-Sparrow Property
We’ll be camping at Myles’ place in Goshen, VT. The address will be shared at the skateparks on the day of the event, or you can message us on Instagram to get it.
Food Recommendations near Goshen
- Hannaford Supermarket – 71 Supermarket Dr, Brandon, VT 05733
- Morningside Bakery Wood-Fired Pizza and Provisions – 37 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Neshobe Cafe – 20 Park St, Brandon, VT 05733
- Cafe Provence – 11 Center St, Brandon, VT 05733
Saturday, June 28th
On Saturday morning, we’ll wake up and pack up our tents, since we’ll be moving our campsite for Saturday and Sunday nights to Jan Welch’s family property in Northern Vermont. We’ll start the day with a refreshing swim at the Gaysville Bridge in Stockbridge, Vermont, which has some awesome cliffs for jumping. After that, we’ll have a relaxed skate session at the Bethel Skatepark in Bethel, Vermont, followed by a visit to the much larger Rusty Bearings Skatepark in West Lebanon, New Hampshire. After Rusty Bearings, we’ll make the hour-long drive up to Lyndonville, Vermont to set up our tents again. There’s also an optional swimming hole you can stop at along the way if you’re up for a quick dip.
Morning Swim at the Gaysville Bridge
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: For the early birds, after you tear down your tents we will meet at one of the most popular swimming spots of the trip to get refreshed and ready for the skate day at the Gaysville Twin Bridge swimming hole, about 35 minutes from Myles’ house. It’s right next to the Gaysville Post Office near Stockbridge, Vermont, with parking available across the street. This spot is perfect for swimming and has cliffs for anyone who enjoys jumping in. It’s a great place to relax, have fun, and make some unforgettable memories.
Gaysville Post Office (Swimming Hole parking)
1720 Vermont Rte 100, Stockbridge, VT 05772
Bethel Skatepark
10:30 AM – 12:30 PM: After swimming, we’ll take a short 10-minute drive (6.6 miles) to the Bethel Skatepark. It’s a small but fun park with quarter pipes, a fly box, hips, and a rail—great for a warmup blade session. There’s also a community pool at the park for anyone who didn’t swim earlier or wants to cool off again.
Bethel Skatepark
115 Pleasant Street, Bethel, VT 05032
Rusty Bearings – West Lebanon, NH
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: We’ll regroup 30 minutes away at Rusty Bearings Skatepark in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, located 27.3 miles from our last stop. This large 16,000 sq. ft. park features a variety of terrain, including bowls and transitions, making it a fun and exciting spot for skaters of all levels.
Rusty Bearings Skatepark
Riverside Park, West Lebanon, NH 03784
Food Recommendations Lebanon/White River Junction
- Happy Dumpling – 10 Benning St Unit 750, West Lebanon, NH 03784
- Big Fatties BBQ – 186 S Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001
- Upper Valley Food Coop – 193 N Main St, White River Junction, VT 05001
- Trail Break Taps + Tacos – 129 S Main St ste 100, White River Junction, VT 05001
Camping in Lyndonville, Vermont
On Saturday and Sunday nights, we’ll be camping at Jan Eric Welch’s parents’ property in Lyndonville, Vermont. It’s about 75.5 miles north up Interstate 91—roughly a 1 hour and 10 minute drive. The site has beautiful views of Burke Mountain and plenty of spots to set up tents or hammocks in the woods. If you enjoy disc golf, there are five baskets on the property and a full 18-hole course just down the road. Bring your discs and enjoy a few rounds!
READ IMPORTANT: As you turn into the driveway, there is a pine tree on the left with some open spaces on either side where you can park. These spots can accommodate approximately 5 to 7 cars. Keep in mind that the driveway is designated for vans and campers. As you approach the end of the driveway, a well-lit path cuts through the grass and leads to the main parking area along the row of trees on the left side of the property. Remember to drive slower, especially when passing between the hazelnut bush and plum tree. The best camping spots are in the trees.
Camping Location
Camping will be at Jan Welch’s family property in Lyndonville, Vermont. The address will be shared at the skateparks on the day of the event, or you can message us on Instagram to get it.
Sunday, June 29th
Sunday morning we’ll start by visiting Up Rise Skatepark in Lyndonville, just 3.8 miles away. Next, we’ll enjoy some swimming at Lake Willoughby South Beach, located 16 miles from the skatepark. After our swim, we’ll drive 21 miles north to Newport Skatepark.
Following our visit to Newport, we’ll cool off with a swim at Crystal Lake in Barton, a picturesque state park 19 miles away. There is a $4 entry fee, but it’s a great value as this park is the oldest in Vermont. For those needing supplies, there’s a grocery store nearby in Barton. To wrap up the day, we’ll grab dinner at Parker Pie in Wester Glover, Vermont then travel 20 miles back to our camping area in Lyndonville.
Up Rise Skatepark
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: On Sunday, we’ll kick off the day at Uprise Skatepark, situated just 9 minutes away at the base of the historic Lyndon Outing Club. Founded in 1937, the Lyndon Outing Club is one of Vermont’s oldest ski areas. Uprise Skatepark may be small, but it’s super fun. The park’s main attraction is a concrete bowl seamlessly transitioning into a small street area featuring a few rails. The park culminates with a quarter pipe. Its unique design resembles an abstract sculpture and a skate park, with sleek contours and a slate aesthetic that beautifully contrasts the surrounding green hills and fields.
Lyndon Outing Club Skatepark
1580 Lily Pond Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Lake Willoughby South Beach
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Embark on a picturesque 24-mile drive from the Newport Skatepark to reach the captivating south shore of Lake Willoughby. This year, we’re excited to change things up and enjoy the view from the south, thanks to the addition of ample parking facilities built last year. Prepare to be enchanted by the serene beauty of South Beach, where you can immerse yourself in the healing waters and revel in the awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic cliffs of Mt. Pisgah and Mt. Hor. Lake Willoughby, a glacial lake spanning 5 miles and plunging over 320 feet (98 m) deep in certain areas, evokes the enchanting landscapes of Norwegian fjords. Since 1967, this remarkable natural wonder has been recognized as a National Natural Landmark, providing a safe nesting sanctuary for the elusive peregrine falcon.
Willoughby Lake South Beach
5659 VT-5A, Westmore, VT 05860
Newport Skatepark
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Nestled approximately 5 miles south of Quebec, the Newport Skatepark is a concrete park brimming with captivating features.
Newport Skatepark
155 Gardner Park Road, Newport, VT
Crystal Lake State Park
6:30 PM till Dark: Embark on a picturesque drive from the Newport Skatepark to reach the captivating south shore of Crystal Lake State Park. Crystal Lake State Park is a day-use state park and historic site in Barton, Vermont, United States. It is located at 96 Bellwater Avenue, off Willoughby Lake Road just east of the village, at the northwestern end of 763-acre Crystal Lake. There is a $4 entrance fee per person.
Crystal Lake State Park
96 Bellwater Ave, Barton, VT 05822
Parker Pie
After swimming, you can eat at Parker Pie in West Glover, Vermont (5 miles). It’s the most famous pizza joint in Vermont, known for its excellent beers on tap, including Hill Farmstead Brewery. Parker Pie is a popular spot for pizza and craft beer lovers, offering wood-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients. Alongside their mouthwatering pizzas, they have an impressive selection of craft beers on tap, featuring local and regional brews. To avoid long waits, pre-order your food at Parker Pie before leaving Crystal Lake.
Parker Pie Company
161 County Road, West Glover, VT 05875
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Camping in Lyndonville, Vermont
We’ll be camping at Jan Eric Welch’s parents’ property in Lyndonville, Vermont, on Thursday and Friday nights. The site offers beautiful views of Burke Mountain and has been prepared with multiple areas suitable for pitching tents and setting up hammocks in the woods. If you’re a fan of disc golf, you’ll be pleased to know there are five baskets on the property. Feel free to bring your discs and enjoy a few rounds.
READ IMPORTANT: As you turn into the driveway, there is a pine tree on the left with some open spaces on either side where you can park. These spots can accommodate approximately 5 to 7 cars. Keep in mind that the driveway is designated for vans and campers. As you approach the end of the driveway, a well-lit path cuts through the grass and leads to the main parking area along the row of trees on the left side of the property. Remember to drive slower, especially when passing between the hazelnut bush and plum tree. The best camping spots are in the trees.
Camping Location
Camping will be at Jan Welch’s family property in Lyndonville, Vermont. The address will be shared at the skateparks on the day of the event, or you can message us on Instagram to get it.
Food Recommendations Lyndonville
- Estella’s Bar & Grill – 774 Main St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Lyndon House of Pizza – 93 Main St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- The Freighthouse Coffee and Sandwiches – 1000 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Monday, June 30th
On the last day of Vermont Blade and Camp, for anyone not heading straight home, we’ll start with a short session at the skatepark at Lyndon State University, just down the road. After that, we’ll head to Round Pond at Perry Holbrook State Park for a swim. It’s also close to the Bread and Puppet Museum—a must-visit while you’re in the area.
This is a great day to explore optional activities too! You can drive up the toll road to the top of Burke Mountain and climb the fire tower for amazing views, play the 18-hole disc golf course at the university, or even rent bikes and ride the Kingdom Trails—home to the largest mountain bike trail system on the East Coast.
Vermont State University Lyndon Skatepark
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: This 6,000-square-foot pre-fabricated skatepark at Vermont State University in Lyndon is only 5 minutes from the campsite. There is also a really cool curved stair rail at the college!
NVU Skatepark
477 Lower Campus Drive, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Park at the big lot at the college and walk over.
Round Pond at Holbrook State Park
Noon: For the last swimming hole of the weekend, we will visit Round Pond, a hidden gem located in Perry Holbrook State Park, 22 minutes north of Lyndonville. Stunning views of the local mountain surround the pond and its fresh, clear water. To access the pond, you will enter at the sign driving down a right-of-way to a gravel parking lot. You will walk past the gate 0.4 miles down a logging road that ends at the pond.
For those seeking a rewarding hiking adventure, there is a breathtaking 2.9-mile in-and-out trail that leads to a mesmerizing outlook offering panoramic views of the serene ponds below. This scenic hike typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete and offers a moderate level of challenge, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the surroundings as you ascend to the lookout point and indulge in the awe-inspiring vistas.
Perry Holbrook State Park
VT-122, Sheffield, VT 05866
Optional: Bread and Puppet Museum
After your refreshing swim, take a short drive a mile north to the Bread and Puppet Museum for an extraordinary and thought-provoking experience. Located in Glover, Vermont, the museum is dedicated to showcasing the art and performances of the renowned Bread and Puppet Theater. Founded by Peter Schumann in 1963, the theater is celebrated for its powerful puppetry shows that tackle important social and political issues.
At the museum, you will encounter a fascinating collection of puppets, masks, posters, and other artworks created by the talented theater group. These exhibits provide visitors with a deep insight into the creative process and vision behind the Bread and Puppet Theater. Additionally, the museum hosts engaging performances, workshops, and events that revolve around puppetry and political theater, offering a dynamic and immersive experience.
By visiting the Bread and Puppet Museum, you will have a unique opportunity to explore the captivating intersection of art and activism through the remarkable work of the Bread and Puppet Theater. It is an enriching and inspiring destination that invites you to delve into the world of socially conscious puppetry and contemplate the power of artistic expression in promoting social change.
Bread and Puppet Theater
753 Heights Road, Glover, VT 05839
Optional: UNV Disc Golf Course
For those who have an interest in disc golf, you’re in for a treat. Northern Vermont University boasts a picturesque 18-hole course that combines open fields and wooded areas, creating a fun and challenging terrain. With plenty of elevation changes, this course offers a delightful disc golf experience amidst stunning surroundings. Get ready to test your skills and enjoy the beautiful scenery as we wrap up an amazing weekend of skating and outdoor activities.
UNV Frisbee Golf Course
1001 College Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Optional: Burke Mountain Toll Road & Fire Tour
Just a short 7-mile drive from Lyndonville lies Burke Mountain, a renowned ski destination during the winter and a haven for mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts in the summer. It’s picturesque trails and stunning vistas offer an unforgettable outdoor experience. For a nominal fee of $10 per car, visitors can drive to the summit and climb up the stairs of the historic fire tower. From its vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking 360-degree views spanning the magnificent landscapes of Quebec, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Prepare to be awe-struck as you take in the panoramic beauty of the surrounding regions.
Skateparks To Visit Heading Home
Off I-93 South
- Lin-Wood Skatepark – 194 Pollard Road, Lincoln, NH
- Skatepark of Plymouth – RR Sq Rd, Plymouth, NH 03264
- Franklin Skatepark – 82 E Bow St, Franklin, NH 03235
- Alexander-Carr Park Skatepark – Pierce Ave, Derry, NH 03038
Off I-91 South
- Rusty Bearing’s Skatepark – Riverside Park, West Lebanon, NH 03784
- Perseverance Skatepark – 157 Memorial Park Dr, Brattleboro, VT 05301
- Unity Skatepark – Unity Park, 56 1st St, Turners Falls, MA 01376
- Greenfield Skatepark – 71 Chapman Street, Greenfield, MA 01301
- Northampton Skatepark – Northampton, MA 01060
- Holyoke Skatepark – St Kolbe Dr, Holyoke, MA 01040
Off I-89 South
- Hopkinton Skate Park – 461 Park Ave, Hopkinton, NH 03229
FAQ
What must I bring to have an enjoyable camping trip?
To make the most of your outdoor adventure during the Vermont Blade and Camp, it’s essential to pack the right gear. Below, we’ll discuss the basic and most essential items you need for a successful weekend.
First and foremost, a reliable tent is a must-have for shelter during your camping trip. Consider options like the spacious REI Co-op Half Dome Tent, offering excellent weather protection, or the lightweight and durable MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent, perfect for solo or duo camping excursions.
A comfortable sleeping setup is essential for a good night’s rest. Look for a high-quality sleeping bag like The North Face Cat’s Meow, known for its warmth and compressibility. Pair it with the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Sleeping Pad, an inflatable pad that provides insulation and support for a restful sleep under the stars.
Proper lighting is crucial for navigating your campsite after sunset. The Black Diamond Spot Headlamp provides a bright beam, adjustable brightness, and multiple lighting modes for hands-free illumination. For ambient lighting, the Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Lantern is a lightweight and collapsible option that can be charged using solar power.
Pack appropriate outdoor apparel to withstand Vermont’s varying weather conditions. The Patagonia Torrentshell Rain Jacket is a waterproof and breathable option for unexpected rain showers, and the Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants offer versatility with their convertibility into shorts and quick-drying fabric.
By ensuring you have these essential items, such as a reliable tent, comfortable sleeping gear, and lighting, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable camping trip in the beautiful state of Vermont. For more gear recommendations check out “A Comprehensive Guide to Planning Day and Overnight Hikes.“
What should I expect in terms of bugs?
Bugs, mosquitoes, and other insects are typically active during the summer months. It’s advisable to bring insect repellent containing DEET or other recommended ingredients to protect yourself from bug bites. Consider packing a mosquito net for your tent or using citronella candles to create a bug-free zone around your camping area. While bugs can be bothersome, they can be managed with proper precautions. It’s also a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit that includes items for treating bug bites or minor injuries.
How is Vermont’s weather during the trip?
In June and July, Vermont experiences warmer weather with average temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 89°F (27°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. It’s generally a pleasant time to camp, but it’s important to be prepared for potential weather changes. Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, along with some warmer layers for cooler evenings. Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. It’s always a good idea to have rain gear, such as a waterproof jacket and extra tarps, in case of unexpected showers.
Are dogs allowed?
We prefer not to have too many dogs in the camping areas. If you do bring a dog, it must be well-behaved or leashed. On Saturday and Sunday nights, the property has a lot of landscaping and plants that the owner does not want to be damaged by dogs running through them or urinating on them.
Can I eat the berries?
While camping on Saturday and Sunday, you might come across numerous berries and wonder about their edibility and permission to consume them. The good news is that there are plentiful blackberry and black raspberry plants that you are free to enjoy! However, we kindly request that you refrain from indulging in the eight blueberry plants. Unfortunately, a late freeze affected the blueberries on five of them, so we would like to preserve the remaining ones and savor the fruits (berries) of our hard work.
