Winter Recreation at WilloughVale Inn

The WilloughVale Inn offers a warm and inviting home-away-from-home for enjoying the visual and literal bounties of the season. We’ve highlighted just some of the many activities and events offered in the Northeast Kingdom either right outside our door or within close proximity of Lake Willoughby:

Snowmobiling | Sleigh Rides | Sled Dog Tours | Downhill Skiing
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing | Ice Climbing | Ice Fishing

Snowmobiling

For more than 30 years, a remarkable network of over 6,000 miles of groomed and connector trails has wound its way through our beautiful state. The V.A.S.T. (Vermont Association of Snow Travelers), composed of local clubs and over 120 groomers, maintains a vast networkof groomed trails for riders to enjoy. Community clubs offer events every weekend to add to the fun. The Northeast Kingdom has long been a major hub for snowmobiling. A trail leading to Island Pond, Vermont’s SNOWMOBILE CAPITAL, is located just outside the Inn’s door!

Rentals possible:
Al's Snowmobile - 802-487-1000
All Around Power - 800-748-1413

A typical snowmobile season in Vermont starts in the middle of December depending on conditions. Take a guided tour from an area snowmobile operator, or ride on the V.A.S.T. trail network. To do so, you must purchase a V.A.S.T. trail pass for your legally registered snowmobile through a local club - and you’re on your way! For further information on purchasing a pass and rules for the trail, visit VTVAST.org. Be sure to ask about our V.A.S.T. Member Discounts – offered all season long!

Further information: Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (V.A.S.T.) - Phone: 802-723-9702 or visit VTVast.org for trail maps and further information.

Sleigh Rides

An extremely popular diversion in winter, a horse-drawn sleigh ride is the perfect way to experience the beauty of our pristine landscape. You will stay warm and toasty with blankets and a warm drink on this exhilarating adventure!

Further information:
Perry Farm in Brownington - 802-754-2396.
The Wildflower Inn - 802-626-8310.

Sled Dog Tours

For the ultimate winter adventure, take a sled dog tour! You will be truly awed by the power, sense of camaraderie and teamwork of the sled dog. Ride for one hour intervals or plan a full day excursion. You will surely take home memories of a lifetime of your time spent in the backcountry with this captivating dog team!

Further information: 802-635-9070

Downhill Skiing

Exhilarating downhill skiing and riding are offered at two renowned resorts, both a reasonable drive from Lake Willoughby. The Burke Mountain Resort, a 25 minute drive from the Inn, offers a classic New England ski experience with excellent trails and a "down home" casual atmosphere. Jay Peak Resort, approximately 40 minutes to the northwest, is a European style resort boasting the highest number of "powder days" in Vermont. Enjoy the view from the tram as you ride to the 360 degree summit! Lessons and rentals are available at both resorts.

Further information:
Burke Mountain Resort - Opens mid December through early April.
802-626-7300 or visit SkiBurke.com

Jay Peak Resort - Open through mid-April.
800-451-4449, 802-988-2611 or visit JayPeakResort.com

Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing

The Northeast Kingdom is truly a winter wonderland, offering miles of outstanding winter sports terrain. From pristine backcountry woodland trails and snow-covered fields to exceptional cross-country ski centers with expertly groomed terrain, you will surely enjoy the best that winter has to offer by ski or snowshoe. Savor breathtaking views along the way!

Innsider’s Tip: Enjoy the peace and serenity of the Westmore Wilderness Trails, located at the south end of the lake. The Inn has two pairs of Tubbs Snowshoes for guest use, free of charge, based on availability. Another fantastic snowshoe trek for the hearty is a hike up Pisgah Mountain. Our staff will be happy to provide directions for both, and tips for other suggested excursions.

Further Information:

Burke Mountain Cross Country Ski Center - About 25 minutes from the Inn, ski touring enthusiasts will enjoy some of the prettiest and least tamed wilderness and hillsides to be found anywhere. 80 km of terrain are offered, with loops that range from 1-12 km for skiers of every ability level. Phone: 802-786-8338 or visit SkiBurke.com.

Craftsbury Outdoor Center - Craftsbury, a quaint, quintessential New England village boasting a historic General Store, is approximately 30 minutes from the Inn. Phone: 802-586-7767 or 800-729-7751 or visit Craftsbury.com.

The Kingdom Trails Association - spearheaded by the folks at East Burke Sports, the Kingdom Trails are a 100-mile trail network (Vermont’s largest recreation trail system) that is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing – Visit KingdomTrails.org for further information.

East Burke Sports (Rentals & Guided Treks) - Long known as the "outdoor gurus" of the Northeast Kingdom, a staff of avid, knowledgeable outdoor enthusiasts will help outfit you with the latest and greatest gear needed for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, paddling, cycling and more. Guided excursions can be arranged by appointment. Located in East Burke, just a mile from the lifts at Burke Mountain and on The Kingdom Trail network. Phone: 802-626-3215 or visit EastBurkeSports.com.

Northwoods Stewardship Center - 30km network of signed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. These quiet paths wind through 2,700 acres of forested and open landscapes and reveal stunning views of the Clyde River Valley and beyond. Visit NorthWoodsCenter.org for more information.

Ice Climbing

Once featured on the cover of Rock & Ice Magazine, the famed icy cliffs of Mt. Pisgah tower over breathtaking Lake Willoughby, making it one of the most renowned climbing experiences in the Northeast. Not for the novice climber, experience is a must for scaling the 300’ steep cliff walls.

Vermont Adventure Tours offers beginning and advanced ice climbing courses.

Ice Fishing

In 1981, John Staples caught a 34 lb trout from Lake Willoughby’s 300’ deep glacial waters. It is no wonder that the lake is a mecca for fishing year-round! With or without a shanty, you may expect to net perch, bass, "longe" (a large fish resembling a salmon) and common mountain trout.

Fishing Licences/Bait & Tackle:
The Evansville Store offers all that is needed to get you out fishing, including Vermont licenses - Fishing licenses may also be purchased online through the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.

Information for Canadian Tourists
Information pour les touristes canadien