When you explore Vermont, picturesque scenes abound, yet numerous hidden gems remain off the beaten path and aren’t featured in tourism pamphlets.
Places frequented by both residents and tourists for roots music jam sessions during the weekend.
Where nearby swimming spots entice families seeking a relaxed day by the water.
In every neighborhood store, you can find fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses affectionately crafted by our local acquaintances and buddies.
This is the type of journey you can expect on Vermont Route 30 in Southern Vermont—a twisting route alongside the West River that guides travelers through fields and woods, quaint towns, and picturesque recreational spots.
Should you yearn for a less hectic tempo, increased outdoor activities, and maybe even a hint of old-fashioned charm, this short trip over the weekend could be exactly what you require.
This weekend trip takes you along Vermont Route 30, passing through charming towns like Brattleboro, Dummerston, Newfane, Townshend, West Townshend, and Jamaica. Ideal for a summertime or autumnal escapade.
Overview: A Weekend Journey Along Vermont’s Route 30
Here’s a concise overview of all the essential information you’ll need to organize your weekend trip exploring Route 30 in Vermont.
-
When to Go:
Mid-May through October -
Where to Stay:
The historic Newfane Inn
(constructed in 1787) serves as an ideal home base for your retreat. Venture north to discover Townshend, West Townshend, and Jamaica, or head south to explore Dummerston and Brattleboro. -
How to Get There:
The nearest airport is
Albany International Airport
(ALB), located two hours away from Newfane. -
How to Get Around:
It is suggested to either rent a vehicle or drive your own for this journey. -
Top 3 Highlights:
Swimming in the West River, the scones at
the Newfane Store
, and the Food Truck Round-Up at
Retreat Farm
.
Stay at the Newfane Inn in the Village of Newfane, VT
During my recent visit to explore Route 30, I was fortunate to stay at the historic Newfane Inn.
This charming historical lodge offers four generous individual guest quarters—ideal for individuals or pairs—and four expansive suite accommodations designed for family stays. Each room is tastefully furnished with high-quality bedding, vintage pieces, and thoughtful details not typically found in chain hotels.
The shared areas are lovely spots for relaxation, and a light breakfast is offered each day.
The Newfane Inn
It sits alongside the Village Green, featuring large shade trees and a playful swan fountain, and it is situated just across the road from here.
the Newfane Store
, known for its delicious killer scones, sandwiches, Vermont-themed gifts, and everything else you might have left behind.
The setting is ideal for exploring one of Vermont’s most charming towns, so be sure to set aside some time during your weekend for leisurely walks.
Outdoor Recreation Along Vermont Route 30
No matter where I travel, it’s pretty much guaranteed that I’ll be hunting for outdoor recreation nearby, and this trip was no exception.
Route 30 runs alongside the West River for much of its length, so there are many opportunities for swimming in the summer, but there are also lovely hiking trails, campgrounds, and bike paths.
Below is a list of some of our top picks for mellow outdoor escapades along Route 30.
Travel along the West River Trail
The West River Trail
It is a picturesque trail ideal for pedestrians, cyclists, and cross-country skiers.
Over 130 years ago, it was established with a narrow gauge track along a 36-mile path from Brattleboro to Londonderry.
Although the West River Trail isn’t fully linked up just yet, visitors can enjoy approximately 18 miles of trail stretching from South Londonderry to Townshend and about six miles running between Brattleboro and Dummerston. It’s worth noting that certain segments near Ball Mountain Lake and Dam are walkable but aren’t accessible via bicycle or vehicle.
The path through Jamaica State Park is particularly beautiful, featuring multiple areas ideal for swimming in the West River and historic signs scattered throughout the route.
Lower Section trail map
(pdf)
Upper Section trail map
(pdf)
Hike to Hamilton Falls or the Overlook in Jamaica State Park
Jamaica State Park
It’s a hidden jewel of a park nestled beside a charming mountain hamlet with the same name. While Jamaica, Vermont, isn’t the Caribbean, it stands out as an exceptionally inviting spot within the verdant Green Mountains.
Hamilton Falls is a 125-foot cascade created by a sequence of tiered drops and sliding waters as Cobb Brook crashes over the stones into a steep canyon.
This is one of
Vermont’s most beautiful waterfalls
And it is completely worth the journey to reach this place. Although swimming is not allowed here, there are several pleasant pools at the base of the waterfall where you can enjoy wading.
The starting point for Hamilton Falls can be found on the West River Trail, which is located approximately 2 miles away from the Jamaica State Park parking lot.
From the trailhead, it’s another 1.1-mile hike to the falls. You can hike the entire 6 miles (round-trip) or do what we did — ride your bike 2 miles in, lock it up at the trailhead, and continue on foot to the falls.
As indicated by numerous warning signs posted throughout the area, many individuals have tragically perished while attempting to scramble around the falls. To ensure your well-being, refrain from climbing on them. Make sure to keep both feet planted safely on the ground and take pleasure in admiring the scenery instead.
The Overlook Trail begins
At the Jamaica State Park campground near the Hackberry lean-to, there’s a roughly 2.5-mile loop trail that is somewhat hilly but clearly marked, leading all the way up to the peak of Little Ball Mountain.
Read On: 7 Unforgettable Moments at Jamaica State Park
Ascend Black Mountain in Dummerston
Black Mountain, standing at 1,279 feet tall in Dummerston, features steep sides and a horseshoe shape. Its summit ridge, covered with woods, rolls gently and is dotted with exposed granite formations.
The arid peak hosts Vermont’s sole pitch pine and scrub oak forest, an ecosystem typically seen along New England’s coastlines and further south.
While the
3.1-mile loop
Despite featuring numerous steep ascents, Black Mountain Natural Area offers easy traction, with the changing scenery providing an engaging distraction.
White and blue painted marks indicate an old property line and can be disregarded; instead, adhere to the yellow-and-green plastic indicators installed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). Given the delicate environment of Black Mountain, pets are prohibited from using this path.
Explore the Townshend and Ball Mountain Dams
The large Ball Mountain Dam and Townshend Dam were built from 1957 to 1961 with the purpose of flood regulation along the West River.
The Ball Mountain Dam stands at an impressive height of 247 feet and stretches for 915 feet in length, whereas the Townshend Dam reaches a height of 126 feet and extends to about 1700 feet in length. Both structures showcase remarkable engineering accomplishments and are fascinating to observe up close.
I’ve only visited Townshend Lake and Ball Mountain Lake during their lower water levels in the summertime, yet they both excel for activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
The Army Corps of Engineers opens the gates at Ball Mountain Dam for two whitewater events—once in May and again in September.
This managed release creates excellent conditions for whitewater kayaking, and Jamaica State Park becomes quite crowded on those weekends.
Swimming Spots Along the West River
As you travel down the West River via Route 30, you’ll notice several spots alongside the road where vehicles can easily park. On summertime weekends, these areas attract many stopped cars, suggesting excellent swimming locations nearby.
The West River is excellent for swimming, offering easy access and ample space to relax. Provided you avoid going right after significant rainfall, you’ll discover that many areas are ideal for family outings—shallow near the edges and not too fast-moving.
We particularly enjoy swimming at Salmon Hole in Jamaica State Park (there’s an entrance fee; pets aren’t allowed) since it offers facilities like bathrooms and a playground for children, though one can also swim beneath the
West Dummerston Covered Bridge
is also a treat.
The Historical Society of Windham County along with The West River Railroad Museum
The picturesque West River Trail you see today used to be a risky railway connecting Londonderry and Brattleboro.
Finished in 1879, the Brattleboro & Whitehall Railroad (later renamed as the West River Railroad) aimed to address the closure of mills and farms along with population decline in communities moving towards the western frontier.
The railroad was built with narrow-gauge tracks for a higher degree of curvature, and it quickly became known as 36 miles of trouble.
The wood-burning locomotives were not powerful enough to pull the cars up the narrow tracks. Passengers would often get out and walk along the tracks because it was faster than riding. Construction and maintenance problems, heavy snow, and constant flooding meant that the trains were never on time, and wrecks were common.
Before too long, the railroad began competing with buses and automobiles and entered a period of economic decline. The 1936 flood proved too much for the struggling railroad, and with much of the track missing or in disrepair, the company filed for abandonment.
In 2014, the Historical Society of Windham County acquired the station and celebrated with a grand opening event.
The Western River Railroad Museum
In 2017, stop by on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM.
Discover Retreat Farm in Brattleboro
There are countless reasons to adore this.
Retreat Farm
In Brattleboro, there’s plenty to enjoy upon arrival. This stunning property features the Retreat Farm Store, several historic barns, walking paths, farm creatures, and a woodland play area.
Retreat Farm is a non-profit entity dedicated to fostering a community where individuals value both the land and their neighbors. By working alongside farmers, creators, and innovators, they promote agricultural practices, artistic endeavors, and land-related enterprises that contribute to what makes Vermont distinctive.
Stop by Retreat Farm anytime from sunrise to sunset to discover the Public Common and trails, and make sure to drop into the Retreat Farm Store every day from 10 AM to 6 PM.
If you find yourself nearby on Thursday evenings during the summertime, make sure not to miss out on the event.
Food Truck Roundup
, offering live music, ample room for sitting, picnicking, or dancing, along with an impressive array of food vendors.
Where to Dine and Sip Near Route 30
Although options aren’t limitless when it comes to dining spots along Vermont Route 30, there’s plenty of locally-sourced Vermont cuisine to satisfy both your palate and hunger throughout the entire weekend. Below is a selection of delightful fare found from Brattleboro to West Townshend on Route 30.
Heavenly Treats at Fire Arts Cafe in Brattleboro
Rise early and head a short distance beyond downtown Brattleboro to find the finest French pastries available east of the Connecticut River.
Fire Arts Cafe
It’s a remarkable bakery and café where you can kick off your day with a flaky croissant paired with a creamy maple latte. Alternatively, perhaps opt for a piece of quiche along with a piping hot cup of tea. The choices abound!
When you’ve had your caffeine fix and your fill of flaky pastries, head next door to
Fire Arts Vermont
, a combination glass-blowing and ceramics studio with a beautiful gallery featuring a colorful mix of ceramics and glass art.
Fresh Produce at Dutton Berry Farm
Enjoy your summertime strawberry indulgence at Dutton Berry Farm located in Newfane. You can pick your fresh berries during their peak season or select from an extensive range of farm-fresh items such as produce, pastries, dairy products like eggs and cheese, preserves, blooms, and handcrafted fudge.
On my latest trip, strawberries were in season (hurray!), however, I also picked up several baskets of red currants, raspberries, and cherries to enjoy over the weekend.
The berry season is brief in Vermont, so it’s advisable to pick them while you still can!
Yummy Sandwiches and Scones at the Newfane Store
Regardless of when you stop by during the day
the Newfane Store
, it’s bustling — during the mornings, locals pick up coffees and pastries to enjoy as they head to their jobs, while retirees unwind in the cozy, sunlit sitting area located just before a big picture window.
Throughout the day, people come and go from the shop, picking up essentials like snacks, sandwiches, and chilled beverages as they head off to their jobs or set out for mountain expeditions. Visitors also stop by to purchase souvenirs specific to Vermont—such as T-shirts, decals, and distinctive trinkets you wouldn’t typically find at your local convenience store.
The lunch and dinner specials go beyond the usual with their delicious hand pies (such as chipotle chicken and Mexican brisket) along with delightful wraps, soups, and salads.
On my final day in town, I picked up a maple latte along with an apricot chocolate scone, and even two weeks later, I’m still reminiscing about it!
Lunch Options at Lawrence’s Smoke Shop and River Bend Farm Market in Townshend
Locals grab groceries at
River Bend Farm Market
In Townshend, this spot is perfect for essentials such as milk, bread, and laundry detergent. Additionally, they offer a great variety of craft beers, an excellent butcher shop, top-notch produce, and a delightful deli section.
Merge your journey to River Bend with
Lawrence’s Smoke Shop
next door for all the supplies you’ll need for an elevated picnic (the Townshend Dam is a great spot for al fresco dining).
Here is where you can find an abundance of maple goods, smoked meat and cheese varieties, along with quirky keepsakes.
Community Cafe at the West Townshend Country Store
The West Townshend Country Store
It may appear similar to many other rural shops in Vermont, but it stands out uniquely. This inviting venue serves as the heart of the community, serving as a home for a nonprofit organization focused on fostering local agriculture, economy, and social events.
The West River Community Project has developed a multifunctional area featuring various amenities such as the West Townshend post office, a generous donation-supported café, an upstairs thrift shop, the Townshend farmer’s market, a communal kitchen, and a spot for live musical performances.
Throughout the week, community events are planned, featuring pizza nights and live music every Friday, open mic sessions on Saturdays in the evening, and a roots jam accompanied by brunch on Sundays.
Dinner at Fat Crow in Newfane
The initial observation upon your entry will be
Fat Crow in Newfane
The trio of motorcycles showcased overhead catches your eye first. Following that, your attention will be drawn to the large wood-burning oven situated at the rear of the bar area. Despite being compact, lively, and welcoming with an interesting decor, this restaurant frequently attracts sizable groups due mainly to its delicious cuisine.
For our starter, we enjoyed garlic Parmesan cauliflower paired with chipotle ranch dressing; it was delightful. However, Eric absolutely loved his ribeye steak served with bone marrow butter—a treat for him that he has brought up multiple times since our visit.
Definitely reserve a spot at Fat Crow, as it tends to fill up quickly, even on weekdays.
Eager to organize your dream summer or autumn trip to Southern Vermont? The route along Vermont Route 30 offers numerous delights and is perfect for those who love the outdoors!
19 Amazing Activities to Enjoy in Brattleboro, Vermont
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