In the early days, people settled near rivers because they provided a handy mode of transportation for both people and goods. Now people settle near rivers for recreation, sport and beauty. Vermonters love the outdoors, and rivers provide a natural playground for these river towns in VT. Let’s check out a few neat towns along some of the rivers in Vermont.
1. Bristol
The New Haven River, a tributary of Otter Creek, flows out of the mountains through the town center. Most of the action downtown here is on Main Street, which is part of the Bristol Downtown Historic District, and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Windsor
Windsor is known as the "Birthplace of Vermont," as the Constitution of Vermont was adopted here in 1777. While checking out this town on the Connecticut River, don't miss the creative and unique Path of Life Garden.
3. Woodstock
Located on the Ottauquechee River, Woodstock is well known for its history and charm.
4. Arlington
The Battenkill River, famous for trout fishing, flows through the center of town in Arlington. Explore the works of Norman Rockwell, visit a sugar shack or take a hike on Mount Equinox while you're here.
5. Newfane
You'll love this lovely town off the Rock River. In 2006, Newfane became one of the first American towns to have its citizens pass a resolution endorsing the impeachment of President George W. Bush. You don't mess with the residents of Newfane!
6. Wilmington
There are lots of waterways in Wilmington! It's drained by the North Branch Deerfield River, as well as Meadow Brook, Rose Brook, Haystack Brook, Hall Brook, Ellis Brook, Beaver Brook, Negus Brook and Wilder Brook. It is located in the Deerfield Valley of the Green Mountains.
7. Gaysville
The village of Gaysville, part of the town of Stockbridge, was one of thirteen Vermont towns isolated by flooding caused by Hurricane Irene in 2011.
8. Middlebury
Home to Middlebury College and the Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History, this is a place that's filled with rich history, incredible architecture, culture and charm.
9. Waitsfield
When taking a break from the Mad River, check out the Waitsfield Farmers Market. It's a great one!
10. Londonderry
When enjoying the Winhall River and the charming town of Londonderry, head over to the Taylor Farm for some fresh cheese and friendly animals.
11. Westminster
Chartered in 1735, Westminster is Vermont's oldest existing town. While here, hike the Pinnacle trail which is the the highest and most scenic peak in the town. Located on the Windmill Ridge, the view from the Pinnacle overlooks Hedgehog Gulf in Brookline and westward to Mount Snow and Stratton Mountain, over 20 miles away.
12. Wells River
Wells River is both the name of the river and the town. The village center was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 as Wells River Village Historic District.
13. Bethel
Bethel, a town of just over 2,000 residents, is by the White River.
Bethel is best known for being the source of Bethel White Granite which was used to build Union Station in Washington, D.C. and the National Museum of Natural History.
14. Lyndonville
After checking out the epic hiking and mountain bike trails, head on over to the famous Miss Lyndonville Diner at this town on the Passumpsic River.
15. Fairfax
The Browns River empties out into the Lamoille River in Fairfax. When in Fairfax, check out the impressive Fairfax Falls, a large waterfall from a powerful river.
16. Thetford
The run-off in the falls below the Sayers Covered Bridge in Thetford is incredible and almost deafening.
17. South Royalton
A charming place with almost 700 residents, South Royalton is also home to the Joseph Smith Birthplace with a visitors center, a monument and an interesting history.
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