jrbalick

I am driving with two teenagers and am looking for interesting sights along the way. Can you suggest a driving route, any hikes or fun places to stop inbetween Burlington, Vt and Boston?

dfrostnh

If you want to detour across VT to link up with Rt 93 you could include a visit to the Vermont Corn Maze in Danville. It opens Aug 1. Not sure it would be as much fun if the cornstalks aren't tall although maybe they will be by then. It's great fun but you need to allow 2-3 hours. Then Rt 93 will take you thru the White Mountains. You could stop at the Flume or follow a trail. Check trail conditions, however, a friend canceled a recent hiking vacation in northern NH because the trail was too muddy. You can rent canoes etc at Hannah's paddles, Canterbury NH exit 17 Rt 93 but there's also a natural beach on the Merrimack River in that area. If the river is high because of all this rain the beach might be covered. There's another place with kayaks in Penacook on the Contoocook River. It's possible to paddle to a secluded beach. Well, not too secluded since kayaking and pontoon boats are popular. There's a casual barbecue place The Smoke Shack at exit 17, too, if you need a place for lunch.


If you decide to go south from Burlington, head for Bristol. It's a small town with a route across the Green Mountains called the Lincoln Gap. There's a popular swimming hole at the beginning, just outside of town. On a hot day you'll see lots of people. Wear water shoes. The bottom is rocky. It's possible to walk across the river in the shallow place. Upstream is a deep pool and small waterfall. Kids jump off the ledges into the pool. Great place for a picnic. From there you could head to Quechee for a look into the gorge or short hike. At one time someone told me of a popular place for hang gliding but I didn't follow up on it. Maybe someone else will know. Then head for Rt 89. Get off in New London but head to Winslow State Park in Wilmot (not far). The auto road is a pretty drive, great views from the picnic area, steep hike to the top of Mt Kearsarge. From the Warner side of the mountain, the hike isn't very steep at all. Get off at exit 9. Head south on Rt 103. In the center of town, it's a left hand turn onto Kearsarge St. Haven't been to the Indian Museum but have heard good things about it. Stay on Rt 103. It will take you all the way into Concord where you can connect with Rt 93S. Pretty drive. If apples are in seasons, Gould Hill Orchard in Hopkinton has great apples and a lovely view.
You could plan to go to a PYO place for blueberries. There are several in the Concord area. The NH Dept of Agriculture has a listing on their website.

colbeck

You might enjoy a tour of the Ben & Jerry's plant which is located not far off I89 in Waterbury, east of Burlington. It is also enroute to Stowe, which is a a wonderful area for outdoor activites, including an Alpine Slide.

Heading south on 89 you can make a short detour to Quechee. The hike down into the gorge is easy and fun. There is also a complex there with shops and restaurants.