Best Scenic Drives in Vermont: Things To Do In Manchester – Episode 6
Vermont, known as the Green Mountain State, offers a plethora of unique and thrilling driving experiences for road trip enthusiasts. From off-roading adventures to spectacular mountain drives, Vermont has something for every type of driver. As we explore the charming town of Manchester, discover two scenic drives in Vermont. All of which showcase the natural beauty and rugged terrain.
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Interested in planning a trip to Manchester, VT? Click here to read our Manchester, Vermont travel guide.
Scenic Vermont Drives in Manchester
1. Off-Roading at the Land Rover Experience
One of the most exhilarating scenic drives in Vermont can be found at the Land Rover Experience in Manchester. This off-roading adventure allows visitors to navigate steep inclines, declines, natural obstacles, ruts, and rock crawls deep in the Vermont countryside.
Nervous about driving on your own? Sit in the passenger seat as an experienced off-roading instructor guides you through the challenging terrain.
Want to test your driving skills in extreme conditions while surrounded by the picturesque Vermont wilderness? For those interested in hopping into the driver’s seat, navigate through the terrain’s extreme conditions alone and gain valuable skills that can be applied to different driving scenarios.
Push your limits. Refine your driving technique.
As you overcome obstacles, feel a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance.
Whether you’re looking for a fun adventure or want to enhance your driving skills, off-roading in Vermont offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you wanting more!
Off-roading at the Land Rover Experience costs $275 per vehicle with up to three passengers at the time of the experience.
Land Rover Experience Equinox Address: 80 Union St. Fork, Manchester, Vermont 05254
2. Mount Equinox Skyline Drive
Another must-visit driving experience in Vermont is the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive, located in Manchester. This five-mile breathtaking route takes visitors to the highest peak in the Taconic Range, offering breathtaking mountain views as far as the eye can see.
Nicknamed “A Drive to the Sky,” The Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is the longest privately owned paved toll road in the US, making it a unique and unforgettable adventure.
“Breathtaking mountain views without hiking” is a concept that many outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers can appreciate. The convenience of being able to drive up to the summit without the need for hiking or walking allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the landscape without the physical strain typically associated with mountain exploration.
The gradual ascent up the mountain offers opportunities to stop at various viewpoints and capture stunning photos of the surrounding scenery. Let’s not forget the thrill and excitement of driving up steep inclines and navigating winding roads to reach the summit. You’ll spend around 20 minutes driving up in your own vehicle gradually.
The summit promises panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Burlington, Rutland, Killington Mountain, New Hampshire, New York, and the Adirondack Mountains.
St. Bruno Scenic Viewing Center
Fun Fact: Did you know Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is under the Carthusian religious order?
The Carthusians are a Catholic religious order founded by Saint Bruno in 1084, known for their vow of silence, solitude, and a life dedicated to prayer. At the summit, visit the St. Bruno Scenic Viewing Center to learn about the Carthusian religious order of monks and nuns. They built the first charter house in the French Alps, and there are now 21 Carthusian monasteries worldwide, with the first in the US located right here in Arlington, Vermont.
Helpful Tip: When descending, take frequent breaks at lookout spots to avoid burning out your brakes. Drive carefully, put the car in low gear, pump the brakes, and avoid riding them to keep them cool.
If you are looking for unique driving experiences in Vermont, the convenience and accessibility of these two scenic Vermont drives offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the landscape and appreciate the grandeur of the mountains from a different perspective.
Whether it’s the thrill of off-roading in a luxury vehicle or the serenity of a picturesque drive to a mountain summit, these experiences offer a remarkable way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.
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Reasons To Visit Manchester, Vermont
We love Vermont, and try to visit as often as we can.
Here are some reasons why we appreciate Vermont, and think you should plan a trip to Manchester.
- Unique Driving Experiences: Manchester, Vermont offers two thrilling driving experiences – the Land Rover Experience for off-roading enthusiasts and the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive for stunning mountain views.
- Historic Attractions: Visitors can explore historic attractions like the Southern Vermont Art Center and Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, adding a cultural touch to the trip.
- Outdoor Recreation: Vermont offers a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, fly fishing, golf, and music festivals, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and soft adventure seekers.
- Seasonal Adventures: Whether visiting in spring, winter, or fall, Vermont offers unique experiences in each season. From lush greenery in spring to winter adventures in the snow, there’s something for everyone.
- Local Charm: Vermont’s small mountain towns like Manchester provide a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Culinary Delights: Manchester is known for its farm-to-table dining experiences, offering delicious local cuisine and craft beverages.
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