Vermont Swimming and Outdoor Activities

Spring, Summer, and Fall in Vermont

When we are asked, "what is there to do in Vermont during the warm months?" our cheeky answer is, "everything but surfing."  Each spring Vermont welcomes dog lovers with open arms (and, of course, paws.)  

Majestic mountains, lakes, rivers, and streams, local flavors of farmers' markets, dog friendly restaurants, outdoor concerts and theaters, are each pawfect escapes from the hustle and bustle.  Below are a sampling of some summertime adventures.  If you are looking for any particular activity, we are always happy to help you to sniff them out for you.  

A Boston Terrier dog lying on grass next to a mug of beer outdoors with people socializing in the background on a sunny day.
A dog swimming in Chittenden Reservoir in Vermont after a ball, with mountains and trees in the background.
A dog swimming in Chittenden Reservoir in Vermont after a ball, with mountains and trees in the background.
A man and his dog paddleboarding on a lake. The man is wearing a blue shirt, shorts, and a wide-brimmed hat, holding a paddle. The dog is standing on the paddleboard, wearing an orange life jacket.
A man and his dog paddleboarding on a lake. The man is wearing a blue shirt, shorts, and a wide-brimmed hat, holding a paddle. The dog is standing on the paddleboard, wearing an orange life jacket.

Swimming

There are hundreds lakes, rivers, streams, and swimming holes throughout the region, including one in our backyard and across the street!

Three of our favorite places to get wet, chase balls, and chew sticks are Buttermilk Falls,‍ ‍Chittenden Reservoir at Lefferts Pond, the swimming hole on the Otter River at The West Rutland Recreation Park next to the dog park!

Additionally, many of the beautiful Vermont State Parks offer places to get wet! *If adventuring to any of the State Parks, we highly suggest to contact THEM before going with a plan to get wet as rules within the State Park system may change from what is written on their websites.

An outdoor concert at Pittsford Family Farm in Vermont, with a large crowd seated on the grass in front of a stage, surrounded by green trees and hills.

Outdoor Dog Friendly Concerts

Most nights in the warmer months you can find a dog-friendly outdoor concert featuring outstanding talent and serene landscapes. From the Seven to Sunset Series to Cooler in the Mountains to Concerts to the Castleton Summer Series, the Green Mountains are alive with the sound of music. Most are free. When you are at the inn we will provide you with a full listing of concerts for you to enjoy.

Dog sitting in red canoe looking at water

Paddleboarding, Kayaking, and Canoeing

If you have your own paddle craft, consider visiting a Vermont State Park, Chittenden Reservoir/Lefferts Pond or the hidden beauty of Glen Lake. If you need to rent, Bomoseen State Park, Lake St. Catherine State Park, Emerald Lake State Park and Camp Plymouth State Park all have rentals available.  Or check out Blue Ridge Outfitters, an extremely dog-friendly family run business that will deliver your paddle craft to the Chittenden Reservoir for you - how cool is that?!

Small terrier sitting in front of freshly picked cherries at Vermont dog-friendly orchard

Berries, Cherries, Apples, Plums and More! - Pick Your Own

June to October is picking time in Vermont! Our favorite place to pick blueberries is Wildwood Berry Farm in Dorset. For all other berries, cherries and apple picking, Champlain Orchards is the place to be.

Young girl horseback riding. She is wearing a blue helmet and looking at the Vermont landscape
Young girl horseback riding. She is wearing a blue helmet and looking at the Vermont landscape

Horseback Riding and Rodeo

From beginners to accomplished riders, guided trail riding through mountain trails is available at Mountain Top Inn and Pond Hill Ranch.

On Saturday evenings in the summer, Pond Hill sponsors a professional rodeo.

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