The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Canaan, New Hampshire and Wolcott, Vermont

Canaan, New Hampshire, and Wolcott, Vermont, are two charming towns nestled in the heart of New England. These small towns offer visitors a glimpse of the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. A road trip from Canaan to Wolcott is a perfect way to explore the region and take in all the sights and sounds. Woodsville, NH, is the halfway point between these two towns, and it's worth a stop to stretch your legs and take in the historic architecture and natural beauty of the area. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

Explore the Franconia Notch State Park

Franconia Notch State Park is one of the most beautiful places in New Hampshire, and it's only a short drive from Canaan. The park is home to the iconic Flume Gorge, a stunning natural formation that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Visitors can also hike to the summit of Cannon Mountain, take a dip in the Echo Lake, or take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway. The park is the perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Interesting fact: The Franconia Notch State Park was once home to the famous Old Man of the Mountain, a natural rock formation that resembled a man's face. Unfortunately, the Old Man collapsed in 2003, but visitors can still see a replica of the face at the park's visitor center.

Visit the Ben and Jerry's Factory

No road trip to Vermont is complete without a visit to the Ben and Jerry's factory. The factory, located in Waterbury, Vermont, offers visitors a chance to see how the famous ice cream is made, sample the flavors, and learn about the company's history and values. Visitors can take a guided factory tour, visit the Flavor Graveyard to pay their respects to the retired flavors, or shop for souvenirs at the scoop shop.

Interesting fact: Ben and Jerry's was founded in 1978 by two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, who decided to open an ice cream shop in Vermont. Today, the company is known worldwide for its creative flavors and commitment to social justice.

Stroll along the Burlington Waterfront Park

Burlington Waterfront Park, located in Burlington, Vermont, is a beautiful waterfront park that offers stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. Visitors can stroll along the park's boardwalk, take a bike ride along the bike path, or have a picnic on the grass. The park is also home to the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, a science and nature museum that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Interesting fact: Burlington Waterfront Park was once home to the Lake Champlain Transportation Company, which operated steamboats and ferries on the lake. Today, visitors can see the company's historic ferry, the Ticonderoga, at the Shelburne Museum.

Visit the Shelburne Museum

The Shelburne Museum, located in Shelburne, Vermont, is a unique museum that features over 150,000 objects, including folk art, quilts, paintings, and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the museum's 45 acres of gardens, visit the historic buildings, or take a tour of the exhibits. The museum is a must-visit destination for art and history lovers.

Interesting fact: The Shelburne Museum was founded by Electra Havemeyer Webb in 1947. Webb was a collector and philanthropist who wanted to create a museum that showcased American art and artifacts in a rural setting.

Explore the Trapp Family Lodge

The Trapp Family Lodge, located in Stowe, Vermont, is a beautiful resort that offers visitors a chance to experience the region's rich history and natural beauty. The lodge is owned and operated by the von Trapp family, who were made famous by the musical "The Sound of Music." Visitors can hike the lodge's nature trails, take a guided tour of the property, or enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants.

Interesting fact: The von Trapp family fled Austria in 1938 to escape the Nazi regime and eventually settled in Stowe, Vermont. They opened the Trapp Family Lodge in 1950, and it has been a popular destination for visitors ever since.

In conclusion, the road trip from Canaan, New Hampshire, to Wolcott, Vermont, is a perfect way to experience the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Along the way, visitors can explore stunning state parks, visit iconic landmarks, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the region's small towns. The trip takes approximately three hours, but visitors are encouraged to take their time and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.