The Green Mountains begin to taper off as they climb northward into Canada, but not before one last peak performance by Mount Mansfield, the highest in the state. Along its southern slopes, the ski village of Stowe is the main attraction in this area—rightfully bustling with tourists three seasons out of the year (only during the “mud season” of spring do the chalets close up shop).

Around Stowe, the Lamoille Valley provides a taste of rural northern Vermont sliced up nicely in two by the scenic byway of Route 100. Along the way, the town of Waterbury would be a blip on the map if it weren’t for the two guys who decided to open up an ice cream factory in town.

Getting to North Central Vermont

From Stowe, head up Route 100 for 8 miles (15 min.) to Morristown. For Jeffersonville and Smugglers’ Notch, take Route 108 north from Stowe up and down the precipitous sides of Mount Mansfield for 10 miles (20 min.). Note, however, that the road is often closed because of snow from November to April. During those months, you’ll need to take the long way around to Jeffersonville from Morristown along Routes 100 and 15 west (16 mi., 30 min.).

The Green Mountain Transit Agency (802/223-7287, www.gmtaride.org) also operates routes to Morristown from Waterbury and Stowe, with transfers from Montpelier. There is no public transportation to Smugglers’ Notch; however, the resort offers van service from Burlington’s airport and train station (802/644-8851, ext. 1389) for a $45 charge each way (one child free per paying adult, additional children are $35 each).