Mountain & Lake Getaway

Considered one of the most authentic and pristine areas of New England,

the northernmost region of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom offers vast open land, towering mountain peaks, and pristine waters to explore during every season. The Mountain & Lake Getaway will bring you to communities including Newport, Jay, and Derby, where you’re basically able to touch the border!

Newport

Deep lakes, broad mountains and a vibrant downtown are waiting in Newport! Just a few miles from the Quebec, Canada border, Newport draws visitors from New England and across the border for its recreational opportunities, unspoiled nature, and little nooks and crannies that make you feel right at home.

Lake Memphremagog, a focal point of year-round fun in Newport, is the only lake in New England that is also shared with Canada! Swimming, boating and sailing in the summer is swapped for ice fishing and skating in the winter. Drink your morning coffee or pack a picnic lunch and explore shores of the lake along the Boardwalk.  Book a trip on the Northern Star to soak up the scenery or head to Prouty Beach, a 36-acre park offering swimming, and camping.

Kingdom Games hosts a series of swimming, biking, and running events on and around Lake Memphremagog and the Newport Country Club offers scenic views and a rewarding course.

ATVing is an up-and-coming activity in Newport and bike trails continue to expand every season! The Newport-Beebe Bike Path, which extends to the Canadian border along an old railroad bed is a great option and Memphremagog Trails maintains a mountain biking network.

For more recommendations of activities, dining, and lodging in Newport, visit Discover Newport, VT.

Jay

You’ve reached the top of the Green Mountain State and you can practically touch the clouds!  Jay, Vermont is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts to experience rugged mountain adventures, pristine lakes and rivers, and moments of peace and solitude.

Jay Peak Resort is a focal point of this community. The four-season resort is a hub for skiers and snowboarders, offering some of the best trails in New England due to its steep terrain and superior snowfall and conditions. This premier resort offers an abundance of year-round activities including mountain biking, golfing, an indoor water park, and much more. On-site accommodations and dining options make for an excellent stay.

The VAST Trail snowmobile network begin in Jay and travel more than 5,000 miles throughout Vermont. The VAST Trail leads straight to the Village of Jay allowing for riders a place to shop, dine, and stay.

The Jay Community Recreational Centre provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This 240-acre area of land is now available year-round for locals and visitors to enjoy hiking, biking, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.  

Derby

Derby, Vermont is on the northern perimeter of the Northeast Kingdom and shares a border with Canada. Comprised of the villages of Derby Center, Derby Line, and Beebe, Vermont, this community has several lakes and ponds (a few shared with our friends above the border!) which provide an abundance of recreational opportunities.

Lake Memphremagog, Derby Pond and Salem Lake are great spots to enjoy the waters with opportunities to rent kayaks or canoes through local businesses. Kingdom Games also takes advantage of the waters and mountains of this region, hosting a variety of events to run, bike, and swim in and along Lake Memphremagog.

In the winter, the VAST Trail brings snowmobilers to the area, while hunters and fishermen also enjoy the natural life and remote location of Derby. Stunning fall foliage presents itself each fall, transforming the town with orange, red, and yellow hues.

To experience two countries at once, take a ride down Canusa Avenue. Spot the yellow line down the middle of the road that divides the United States and Canada. Make sure you stop for a photo!