An unforgettable weekend awaits as we bring you another thrilling lineup of rural skateparks and breathtaking swimming holes for this year’s Vermont Blade and Camp. Join us for the pre-session on July 5th in Western Massachusettes at Greenfield and Turner Falls Skateparks. The official event kicks off on July 6th at Brattleboro Skatepark in Vermont.
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Skate, Swim, and Explore: Your Perfect Summer Getaway
Mark your calendars for the 5th Annual Vermont Blade and Camp from July 6th to July 10th. Prepare for an unforgettable weekend as 2023 brings another exciting lineup of rural skateparks and breathtaking swimming holes. Following the success of last year’s extended event, which spanned five days and four nights of skating, camping, and swimming, we’re excited to announce an unofficial pre-session organized by our friend and camp regular, Jody Shanabrook.
This pre-session will be held on Wednesday, July 5th, in Western Massachusetts at the newly constructed Greenfield Skatepark and the Unity Skatepark in Turner Falls. Then, the official Vermont Blade and Camp officially commences on Thursday, July 6th, starting at noon at the Brattleboro Skatepark in Southern Vermont, just a short drive north of the Greenfield and Turner Falls skateparks. Gear up and mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience!
What to Expect
The event welcomes both inline and quad skaters. Each day promises an exhilarating adventure, with visits to two skateparks followed by the exploration of Vermont’s stunning swimming holes. Brace yourself for a remarkable experience, as we encounter waterfalls, cliff jumps, and glacial lakes. To ensure an unforgettable camping weekend, our comprehensive guide has you covered. It provides essential information to immerse yourself in the complete Vermont experience. Discover details about the featured parks, alternative skateparks for the adventurous, recommended eateries and food options, must-see tourist attractions, and much more! This article aims to equip you with everything you need for an extraordinary weekend. Get ready to make lifelong memories!
What’s New This Year
This year, we’re spicing things up by incorporating new parks into our route while revisiting some favorites from previous years. In addition, we have arranged for portable toilets to be available at both camping locations. We kindly invite you to contribute to help us cover the cost of these rentals (approximately $250+). You can contribute via Venmo at @bigwheelblading or through PayPal at janericwelch@bigwheelblading.com.
We anticipate that this year’s event will have the highest turnout since before the COVID era, 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 beginning of July?
- Are dogs allowed?
- Can I eat the berries?
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.
Wednesday, July 5th
The Vermont Blade and Camp will begin with a pre-session in Western Massachusetts this year. Our first destination will be the recently constructed Greenfield Skatepark, followed by a visit to the Turner Falls Skatepark, only 4 miles away. To conclude the day’s activities, we will settle at the Barton Cove Recreation and Camping Area for camping. This campsite is conveniently located 23 miles south of the Perseverance Skatepark in Brattleboro, Vermont, which serves as the starting point for the Vermont Blade and Camp.
Greenfield Skatepark – Greenfield, MA
Noon to 3:00 PM: Don’t miss out on the excitement as we launch the pre-session at the newly inaugurated Greenfield Skatepark in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Join us on Wednesday at noon for an incredible rollerblading experience. Spread across an impressive 10,000 sq. ft., this state-of-the-art skatepark is designed to accommodate skaters of all abilities and age groups. Get ready to explore a dynamic range of street-style elements, including ramps, stairs, rails, hubbas, a pier seven, a flip bank, and a vert wall inspired by the renowned Poet’s Seat Tower of Greenfield.
Greenfield Skatepark
71 Chapman Street, Greenfield, MA 01301
Unity Skatepark – Turner Falls, MA
4:00 – 6:00 PM: Join us for the next leg of our journey as we head from Greenfield to Turner Falls. At 4 PM, we’ll gather at the Unity Skatepark, a 7,500 sq. ft. facility that promises an unforgettable skating experience. With its varied features, including bowls, transitions, and street elements, the skatepark caters to skaters of all levels and styles. The skatepark is next to the scenic Montague Park, along the picturesque Connecticut River, and offers a breathtaking backdrop for our skate session.
If you happen to have big wheel blades with you, don’t miss the chance to explore the scenic 3.8-mile Canalside Rail Trail, conveniently starting at the skatepark. This trail takes you through the historic Turner Falls area, allowing you to immerse yourself in the town’s rich manufacturing heritage as you encounter remnants of its industrial past along the canal. It’s a perfect opportunity to combine outdoor recreation with a glimpse into local history.
Unity Skatepark
56 1st Street, Turners Falls, MA 01376
Related post -> Best Aggressive Inline Skates of 2023
The Patch
6:30 PM: Take a refreshing swim at The Patch in Turners Falls, located near 65 I St, Turners Falls, MA 01376. Simply park your vehicle and follow the trail, which is just a minute away, leading you to the swimming area. To reach the river, take the first right down the bank. If you have any inquiries, please feel free to contact Jody Shanabrook at 413-557-4779.
The Patch
65 I Street, Turner Falls, MA 01376
Camping – Gill, MA
7:45 PM: Jody Shanabrook has secured camping reservations at Barton Cove Recreation and Camping Area, offering free space for up to 25 individuals. Located just across the Connecticut River from Unity Skatepark, this serene campground is a mere three-minute drive away. Nestled on a picturesque rocky peninsula, Barton Cove presents a stunning natural setting. As you explore the area, you can embark on a captivating one-mile nature hike that passes by an abandoned dinosaur footprint quarry, adding an exciting touch of history to your outdoor adventure.
Barton Cove Recreation and Camping Area
82 French King Highway (Route 2)
Gill, MA 01354
Food Recommendations
- Wagon Wheel Country Drive In – 39 French King Hwy, Gill, MA 01354
- Cielito Lindo – 24 French King Hwy, Gill, MA 01354
Thursday, July 6th
The Vermont Blade and Camp will kick off with our first official stop at Perseverance Skatepark in Brattleboro, Vermont. From there, we’ll continue our journey by driving to Rusty Bearings Skatepark in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, which is approximately 64 miles away. Before departing Brattleboro, be sure to explore a unique DIY skatepark situated on an abandoned bridge over the Connecticut River. After enjoying the skate session at Rusty Bones, we’ll make our way to Stockbridge, which is around 37 miles away, to cool off with a swim and set up our campsite. Along the way, we’ve included some food recommendations in West Lebanon and along the road to Stockbridge, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience during our adventure.
Perseverance Skatepark – Brattleboro, VT
11:00 AM – 2:00 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
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
Rusty Bearings – West Lebanon, NH
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM: We’ll regroup at Rusty Bearings Skatepark in West Lebanon, New Hampshire, a spacious 16,000 sq. ft. facility. It’s conveniently located just an hour north of Brattleboro via Interstate 91. This skatepark offers diverse terrain, including bowls and transitions, providing an exciting experience for skaters of all levels. Afterward, we’ll continue our adventure with a 40-minute drive to Stockbridge, Vermont, where we’ll set up camp at Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s home. We’ll stop at the stunning swimming hole near the Gaysville Post Office on the White River along the way. This picturesque location features multiple cliff jumps of varying heights and is only a five-minute drive from our campsite.
Rusty Bearings Skatepark
Riverside Park, West Lebanon, NH 03784
Food Recommendations Lebanon/White River Junction
- 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
Related post -> The 15 Best Helmets for Inline Skating
Swimming in Stockbridge, VT
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: After our skate session, we’ll cool off and make a splash at the Gaysville Twin Bridge, located next to the Gaysville Post Office near Stockbridge, Vermont. Arrive at 7:00 PM, and parking will be available at the Gaysville Post Office parking lot. Get ready to enjoy this fantastic swimming hole, complete with ample cliffs for those daring enough to take the plunge. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, have fun, and make unforgettable memories. Explore the swimming spot for a refreshing cleanse, and make a mental note to return the next morning for an invigorating early dip.
Gaysville Post Office
35 Bridge Street, Gaysville, VT 05746
Camping – Stockbridge, VT
Thursday and Friday camping will take place at Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s residence on Hunger Mountain in Stockbridge, Vermont. It’s important to download offline maps on your map app since cell service is unavailable in this area. To help you find Myles’ house, we’ve provided a dropped pin in Google Maps. Myles’ property offers a stunning environment to relax, unwind, and embark on exciting explorations.
Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s Residence
Mt. Hunger, Stockbridge, VT
(Pin on Google Maps)
Food Recommendations near Stockbridge
- Worthy Burger – 56 Rainbow St, South Royalton, VT 05068
- 802 Pizza – 192 Chelsea St, South Royalton, VT 05068
- Carlita’s Cantina – 212 Chelsea St, South Royalton, VT 05068
- Cockadoodle Pizza Cafe – 235 Main St, Bethel, VT 05032
- Wild Fern – 1703 Vermont Rte 100 N, Stockbridge, VT 05772
- Tozier’s Restaurant – 2678 River St Ext, Bethel, VT 05032
- Creekhouse Diner – 1837 River St Jct of Rte 12 & 107, Bethel, VT 05032
Friday, July 7th
Friday’s Vermont Blade and Camp schedule includes exploring new skate parks. We will begin our day at 11:00 AM at the recently completed Manchester Skatepark, which is 56 miles away. After enjoying our time there, we will reconvene at the Chester Skatepark, approximately 30 miles from Manchester. To cap off our skating adventures, we’ll head to Buttermilk Falls in Ludlow, just 16 miles away, for a relaxing swim to cool off. As the day winds down, we’ll make our way back to Myle’s house in Stockbridge, covering a distance of 34 miles, where we will set up our campsite. Furthermore, at the end of this section, there are additional choices for swimming and skating. You can visit Springfield’s skatepark and rail trail or a partially disassembled and under-construction skatepark in Ludlow.
Manchester Skatepark
11:00 AM – 2:00 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
Jinxrel Memorial Skatepark
3:30 PM – 5:45 PM: The Jinxrel Memorial Skatepark in Chester has received an exciting makeover with the addition of new grind boxes and pre-fabricated obstacles. We’re thrilled to visit this park for the first time during our road trip, but it’s also bittersweet because it will be our only chance to skate here. Starting next year, we’ll replace it on our itinerary with the massive new concrete park being built in Ludlow. Jinxrel has a diverse range of features to explore, such as quarters, banks, a hip, and plenty of p-rails, ensuring a fun-filled and memorable time for all.
Beside the skatepark, there’s a well-maintained 18-hole Disc Golf course with a classic New England-style layout. It’s challenging, mostly wooded, and requires finesse and power. The course has multiple tee boxes, an information kiosk, hand-carved benches, and clear signage. It’s free to play and starts near the kiosk, ending at hole #18 near a restored picnic pavilion. The route of the Vermont Blade and Camp offers numerous courses to play and enjoy along the way.
Jinxrel Memorial Skatepark
65 Lovers Lane Road, Chester, VT 05143
Buttermilk Falls
6:30 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.
Food Recommendations Chester/Ludlow
- Maria’s Mexican Food – 571 VT-103, Chester, VT 05143
- Pizza Stone VT – 291 Pleasant St, Chester, VT 05143
- Southern Pie Cafe – 94 The Common, Chester, VT 05143
- Killarney Irish Pub – 44 Pond St, Ludlow, VT 05149
- Off the Rails Pizza – 64 Pond St, Ludlow, VT 05149
- Mojo Cafe – 106 Main St, Ludlow, VT 05149
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Optional: Springfield Skatepark
The Springfield Skatepark is an older park with quarter pipes, a small mini ramp, banks, and two grind boxes. Check out the amount of Vert on the tallest quarter pipe between the two banks! The park could use some maintenance, as the ramps aren’t in the best condition. Nevertheless, it’s worth checking out and giving it a try.
Springfield Skatepark
9 Fairground Road, Springfield, VT 05156
Optional: Toonerville Rail Trail
Experience the beauty of the Toonerville Rail Trail, also known as the Springfield Greenway, on your big wheel blades. This 3.2-mile paved trail follows the Black River, offering scenic views and opportunities to observe waterfowl. The trail passes waterfalls, a historic one-room schoolhouse and crosses bridges.
Toonerville Rail Trail Parking
280 Clinton St, Springfield, VT 05156
Camping – Stockbridge, VT
Friday camping will take us back to Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s residence on Hunger Mountain in Stockbridge, Vermont. It’s important to download offline maps on your map app since cell service is unavailable in this area. To help you find Myles’ house, we’ve provided a dropped pin in Google Maps. Myles’ property offers a stunning environment to relax, unwind, and embark on exciting explorations.
Myles Cotter-Sparrow’s Residence
Mt. Hunger, Stockbridge, VT
(Pin on Google Maps)
Food Recommendations near Stockbridge
- Worthy Burger – 56 Rainbow St, South Royalton, VT 05068
- 802 Pizza – 192 Chelsea St, South Royalton, VT 05068
- Carlita’s Cantina – 212 Chelsea St, South Royalton, VT 05068
- Cockadoodle Pizza Cafe – 235 Main St, Bethel, VT 05032
- Wild Fern – 1703 Vermont Rte 100 N, Stockbridge, VT 05772
- Tozier’s Restaurant – 2678 River St Ext, Bethel, VT 05032
- Creekhouse Diner – 1837 River St Jct of Rte 12 & 107, Bethel, VT 05032
Saturday, July 8th
On the third day of the Vermont Blade and Camp, we’ll leave Myles’ house on Saturday morning and head north to the Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark in Barre (43 miles). Continuing our skating adventure, we’ll journey even further north to the Johnson Skatepark (41 miles). After enjoying ample skating, we’ll take a refreshing swim in the waters of Joe’s Pond (34 miles). Finally, we’ll settle in for the night at Jan Welch’s family property in Lyndonville, Vermont (21 miles), where we’ll camp on both Saturday and Sunday. Get ready for an exhilarating day filled with blading, swimming, and camping in the breathtaking Vermont landscape.
Optional Early Bird Session: Bethel Skatepark
8:00 AM – 9:45 AM: You’ll find a concrete skate park just down the road from Myles’ house in Bethel, Vermont. This compact yet enjoyable park offers a range of features, including quarter pipes, a fly box, and a rail. It’s the perfect spot for some blading fun.
Bethel Skatepark
115 Pleasant Street, Bethel, VT 05032
Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Join us for our first park of the day at the Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark in Barre, Vermont. Just a 45-minute drive from Myles’ house, this park offers a variety of obstacles, including ledges, rails, and quarterpipes. It’s a pro-level skatepark spread across a half-acre of land, welcoming skaters of all levels to enjoy its facilities. You’ll find features like a halfpipe, quarterpipes, ledges, and rails at this thoughtfully designed skatepark. Get ready to shred and have a blast at the Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark!
Travis Mercy Memorial Skatepark
46 Websterville Road, East Barre, VT 05649
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Optional: Trail Skating the Stowe Recreation Path
Skate the scenic Stowe Recreation Path in Vermont for an 11-mile roundtrip on your big wheel setup. This paved path follows the tranquil West Branch Little River, passing wooden footbridges and inviting swimming holes. Enjoy picturesque mountain views, as well as easy access to restaurants, shops, and cafes along the way. It’s a popular destination for both nature lovers and skating enthusiasts.
Stowe Recreation Path
Park at Lintilhac Park behind the Stowe Community Church on Main Street in Stowe Village.
Johnson Skatepark
3:30 PM – 6:00 PM: We’ll gather at the Johnson Skatepark, just an hour north of the Barre Skatepark at 3:30 PM. Johnson Skatepark has an underground, DIY vibe, unlike the more manicured skateparks on the Vermont Blade and Camp itinerary. This unique park is on the grounds of a former trailer park that experienced flooding, with the developer generously donating the land. Since then, the local skaters have taken it upon themselves to enhance the park. With plenty of room to skate, the park’s layout, reminiscent of a small airstrip, offers a range of ramps, poles, and ledges to suit every skater’s style. Additionally, there are convenient amenities such as a grill and running water for enjoyable cookouts.
Johnson Skate Park
186 Park Loop, Johnson, VT 05656
Joe’s Pond
Situated along State Highway 15, on the route from the Johnson Skatepark to Lyndonville, you’ll discover the picturesque Joe’s Pond in West Danville, Vermont. This hidden gem boasts a stunning public beach, providing a perfect place to relax and enjoy the serene waters. As you approach the area, you’ll find a convenient parking lot right at the beach, just before State Highway 15 meets up with State Highway 2.
Joe’s Pond Trailhead and Parking
Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, West Danville, VT 05873
Camping in Lyndonville, Vermont
Saturday and Sunday nights, we will be camping on Jan Eric Welch’s parent’s property in Lyndonville, Vermont. The property has gorgeous views of Burke Mountain. Jan has done significant work on the property since the last event in 2019. There are now several areas to set up camp in the woods for both tents and hammocks. There are currently five baskets on the property for people who like disc golf, so bring your discs if you want to play some rounds.
Camping Address: 767 Cotton Road, Lyndonvile, VT
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.
Jan Welch Home
Lyndonville, VT 05851
Food Recommendations Lyndonville
- Estella’s Bar & Grill – 774 Main St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Miss Lyndonville Diner – 686 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Lyndon House of Pizza – 93 Main St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Mosaic Bowls and Burritos – 930 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Full Belly Deli – 37 Depot St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
- The Freighthouse Coffee and Sandwiches – 1000 Broad St, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Sunday, July 9th
On the fourth day of the Vermont Blade and Camp, we’ll visit Up Rise Skatepark in Lyndonville (3.8 miles), followed by Newport Skatepark (35 miles). Afterward, we’ll enjoy a refreshing swim at the picturesque south beach of Lake Willoughby (24 miles), before treating ourselves to delicious pizza and Parkie Pie in West Glover (16 miles). Finally, we’ll make our way back to the camping area in Lyndonville (21 miles).
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
Newport Skatepark
2:30 PM – 4:30 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
Lake Willoughby South Beach
5:30 PM – 6:30 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
Parker Pie
7:00 PM: After swimming, we’ll visit Parker Pie in West Glover, Vermont (16 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 Lake Willoughby.
Parker Pie Company
161 County Road, West Glover, VT 05875
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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.
Monday, July 10th
On the concluding day of the Vermont Blade and Camp, we’ll skate at the University of Northern Vermont park (1.8 miles). For those still with us, we’ll make a final visit to the scenic swim spot at Perry Holbrook State Park (13 miles). After a refreshing swim, don’t miss the mind-blowing collection at the Bread and Puppet Museum, just one mile away. At the end of this article, I have compiled a list of skateparks located off the interstates that are worth checking out if you want to continue blading on your journey back home.
University of Northern Vermont Skatepark
Monday morning we will drive 5 minutes from the campsite to the 6,000-square-foot pre-fabricated skatepark at Northern Vermont University in Lyndon for the final session of the weekend. For those who play disc golf, the university has a very scenic 18-hole course offering a mix of fields and trees for a fun and challenging terrain with plenty of elevation changes.
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
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
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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
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Skateparks To Visit Heading Home
Off I-93 South
- 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 beginning of July?
In July, Vermont experiences warmer weather with average temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 80°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.
Links
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