Summer
When we are asked, "what is there to do in Vermont during the summer?" our cheeky answer is, "everything but surfing." From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Vermont welcomes dog owners and their dogs with open arms (and, of course, paws.) In addition to the majestic open spaces of mountains, lakes, rivers, and streams, the local flavors of farmers' markets, outdoor concerts and theaters, dog friendly restaurants are the pawfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the big cities and suburbs. Below are a sampling of some summertime adventures. If you are looking for any particular activity, we are always happy to help you to find the hidden gems.
Hiking, Swimming, Picnicking, and Stick Chewing
Whether you are seeking to climb peaks, experience the Appalachian Trail, or simply enjoy a walk with your dog, we have you covered! Experienced hikers ourselves, we are happy to direct you to the "pawfect" hike! Upon arrival at The Paw House Inn, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of local hikes. But for now, here is a sampling of some of our favorites to whet your appetite!
Chaffee Falls
One year a guest called from the parking lot of this hike and said she must be in the wrong place, because there was no one there. Exactly! A hidden gem where both you and your dog can cool off on a hot summer day. A short hike leads to a series of waterfalls and pools.
Lefferts Pond and the Chittenden Reservoir
Gently nestled beneath Pico Peak is our favorite sacred summer spot - perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, sun bathing, reading a book, picnicking and of course, stick chewing.
Ice caves and waterfalls - need we say more. White Rocks is moderate hike with a good deal of climbing, but the payoffs are worth it.
Golf
Enjoy some of the Northeast's most scenic golf courses, while your four-legged friend relaxes in the air-conditioned comfort of Mario's Playhouse.
Proctor-Pittsford Country Club
A guest favorite, Proctor-Pittsford Country Club offers scenic views of the Green Mountains that rival any in the state of Vermont. With three sets of tee boxes, sixty-one well dispersed sand bunkers, well manicured greens and a player friendly layout Proctor-Pittsford Country Club will continue to be a favorite of local residents as well as out of town guests looking for a fun but challenging golf experience.!
Green Mountain National Golf Course
Among the finest golf courses in New England, Green Mountain National has been voted the #1 Public Course by both Golf Digest and Golf Week Magazines. Located in the heart of Vermont, Green Mountain National is golf at it's best... No hustle, no bustle, no traffic or developments...just the beauty of Vermont surrounds you!
Stonehedge Golf Course
Located just minutes from The Paw House Inn, Stonehedge Golf is a par 3 course that is "Vermont's affordable golf solution and first footgolf course." Stonehedge also offers virtual indoor golf.
Disc Golf
Central Vermont is home to several disc golf courses. So grab your discs, plan to stay for a few days and play them all!
Outdoor Concerts
One of our favorite summer activities is attending outdoor concerts with our dogs. On most summer evenings, you can find a concert in a nearby town and enjoy a picnic al fresco under the stars. Venues and schedules are below and be sure to ask us about more events while you are here.
Downtown Rutland Concerts in Main Street Park
Okemo's Jackson Gore Concert Series
Brandon's Summer Concert Series
Cycling
Love to ride? Do not forget to pack your bikes. The Paw House Inn is located in the midst of cycling heaven. Downhill, mountain, trail, road - central Vermont has it all!
Pine Hill Park
One of the best treasures of the Rutland region and ten minutes from The Paw House Inn, Pine Hill Park offers 16 miles of single-track trail spread over 325 acres of terrain offering some of the very best mountain biking in the central Vermont region.
Killington Bike Park and Okemo Mountain
During the summer months, the area's best ski mountains turn their slopes over to riders. Don't have your own gear? Don't worry. Both locations offer state-of-the-art equipment rental.
D-H Rail Trail
From the campus of Castleton State College, this trail delves into lush pockets of northern hardwood trees and provides a glimpse of Vermont farmland. After 7 miles you'll reach Poultney, near the Vermont/New York border.
Road Cycling
Some of the best cycling in Vermont is located right outside the Inn's front door.
Rivers and Lakes and Streams, oh my!
Fishing, boating, swimming and tubing! Vermont is replete with water fun. Many hikes will bring you to waterfalls and lakes. Lake Bomoseen and Lake St. Catherine are located minutes from the Inn. Have your own kayak or canoe? There are plenty of places to launch from. Need to rent one? We will point you in the right direction.
Farmers' Markets and Family Farms
We are beyond lucky in the Rutland region to have a vital and diverse year-round Farmers Market. It is our goal to support the local merchants and share their amazing devotion to locally grown foods with you. As the summer months arrive, more and more towns host local markets and almost all of them are dog friendly. While you are here please be sure to ask us about some of our favorite summer spots. One of our favorite rituals is picking cherries at Champlain Orchards or blueberries at Wildwood Berry Farm.
Adventure Parks
Seeking some adventure this summer? Visit one of our nearby adventure centers - perfect for families.
Bromley Mountain Adventure Park
The Mountain Adventure Park is packed with family fun for all ages. Shoot the rapids on the Big Splash, shoot some hoops, or shoot a hole-in-one. Ride the fast track on the triple-track Alpine Slide, tackle the Giant Swing, or throw a back flip on a Trampoline thing. Your adventure awaits!
Okemo Adventure Zone
The Adventure Zone includes a wide variety of fun activities for all ages, including the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster, Haulback Challenge Course, Sawyer's Sweep Zipline Tours, Segway PT Tours, AMP Energy Big Air Bag, Lumberin' Cal Miniature Golf, Stump Jumper Bungee Trampoline, The Maples Disc Golf Course a climbing wall and more!
Killington Adventure Center