5 Underrated Northern Vermont Towns (and fun things to do in each)

(Photo by Peter James Eisenhaure/ Unsplash) A Northern Vermont lake and vibrant foliage view.

We've already checked out 5 underrated Southern Vermont towns, so why not venture north?

Although I was born in Southern Vermont, I lived in various Northern Vermont towns after college. While there, I discovered these five Underrated Northern Vermont Towns (and fun things to do in each).

So, grab your flannel and maple syrup and read on to prepare for your next Northern Vermont getaway.

1. Monkton

Okay, I admit I might be a tad biased here because I lived in Monkton for two years. I even have a shirt that jokingly says, “What happens in Monkton states in Monkton.” Still, all jokes aside, Monkton is an underrated Northern Vermont town with so much to offer.

Plus, it’s located near an abundance of other nearby small Vermont towns.

Located in Addison County, the quiet town is a hop skip and a jump to the awesome Mt. Philo, and a quick 20-minute commute to Burlington.

Venture a few minutes down the road to Hinesburg and pick up some of the state's best raw milk (Trust me, I drank it for years.) Or take a short car ride to Bristol, where there's a sweet dairy bar, bar, and craft shop.

Nestled in the mountains, there's no shortage of wildlife, and bears, mountain lions, and coyote sightings are common. You won't want to miss this Northern Vermont gem.

2. Winooski

I lived here, too, and although a bit loud due to the F-35 jets above, Winooski is a bustling town full of eclectic nightspots, gyms, and more.

For starters, Winooski is hands down the best place for breakfast in Vermont. Sneakers, in business since 1980, is a hole-in-the-wall dining experience you won't want to miss.

And right next door is Tiny Thai, which is, well, tiny, so you may have to wait for a bit, but the pad Thai is more than worth it.

Get your history fix at the Heritage Winooski Mill Museum or grab the tastiest wings in town and listen to Irish tunes at the McKee's Pub.

Need some fresh air and views? Enjoy the Winooski Riverwalk.

Other perks: A public bus can take you straight to Burlington and back and a sweet farmer's market is located in the town's center.

3. Burke

One of my best friends attended and eventually taught at the well-known Burke Ski Academy and introduced me to this stunning Northern Vermont town.

While there, take a hike up the steep Camel’s Hump or swim in the beautiful Lake Willoughby.

Bikers won't want to miss the Kingdom Trails or Pulpit Rock in East Burke, where you can snap a photo while standing near an overhanging rock 650 feet up overlooking the serene lake and Vermont landscape.

No doubt: Burke is an outdoor enthusiast's dream.

4. Grand Isle

Brrrrr. Okay, Grand Isle is a bit chilly, but the mountainous views and lake scenes are worth it. A 14 mile long Island located off Lake Champlain, Grand Isle is a perfect getaway to cozy up in a cabin.

With a teeny population of a little over 2,000, this quaint Northern Vermont town is a perfect escape from chaotic urban life.

Grand Isles State Park boasts 226 acres of land and is the most visited state park in Vermont. Visitors can hike, bike, or bask in the sun (during the warmer months) on Lake Champlain's shores within the park.

The town caters to nature lovers, kayakers, hikers, and fishers but ALL will enjoy the Vermont scenery.

(While there, hop on the ferry that brings you to Plattsburgh, NY, for another unique Northern experience.)

5. Richmond

(Photo by Kevin Wiegand/ Unsplash)

Our last stop: Richmond, located in the Green Mountains of Chittenden County. Residents love the beautiful town's affordability and close proximity to Bolton, Burlington, and more.

A destination for cyclists, Richmond boasts loads of trails.

Richmond's old round church, a historical landmark, will have history buffs biting at the bit. This 16-sided wooden meetinghouse exemplifies 19th-century everyday life at its finest.

While there, check out the Lake Iroquois Reservoir that borders not only Richmond but Hinesburg and Williston.

Here there is a public boat ramp and a beach for swimming; The reservoir was made in 1867 to supply nearby mills with a more vital water supply.

Skiers will also enjoy the Cochran ski area and nearby Bolton Valley.

And if you’re into fine dining, check out the delectable Kitchen Table Bistro, featured in The New York Times, USA, Today, and Yankee Magazine.

Conveniently located off I-89, Richmond offers a rustic feel with a quick escape to nearby Williston and Burlington, both known for their abundance of restaurants, outlet shops, and more.

The Lowdown

Vermont boasts many underrated Northern towns that you may have never even heard of. Why not venture off the trek and visit one of the beautiful towns listed above?

As comedian “ Caroline Rhea said, “Someone told me that when they go to Vermont, they feel like they're home.”

These underrated Northern towns seem to have that effect. Enjoy!