You already know that Vermont is one of the most picturesque states in the country. And, aside from taking a hike or kayaking on a lake, one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Green Mountain State is by taking a scenic drive.

As Vermont’s only official National Byway, the Connecticut River Byway is filled with jaw-dropping views, historical points of interest to visit, opportunities to enjoy the water, and plenty of opportunities to stop and take a photo or two. While the Connecticut River starts in Canada and also runs through New Hampshire, there are plenty of sites to see when you take this drive along Route 5 in Vermont. Read on to learn about some of the stops worth checking out as you drive this scenic byway from north to south!

Please note that recent and ongoing weather-related closures could impact this route. Always double-check the most recent road updates before heading out. 

GoogleMaps
1. St. Johnsbury is nestled along the Passumpsic River, just a few miles from the Connecticut River.
Saint Johnsbury, St Johnsbury, VT, USA
DenisTangneyJr/Getty
Museums, breweries, historic sites, and endless architectural charm fills the streets. And in fall... what a fantastic place to visit! If you'd like to explore St. Johnsbury as you follow the Connecticut River Byway, be sure to make a stop at the one-of-a-kind Dog Mountain Chapel.
2. Located in White River Junction, Lyman Point Park is a scenic stop located where the Connecticut River and White River meet.
White River Junction, Hartford, VT, USA
Jason/Getty

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3. As you continue along on your road trip, plan to stop in Windsor to check out Mt. Ascutney State Park.
Mt Ascutney State Park, 1826 Back Mountain Rd, Windsor, VT 05089, USA
Thomas Isidean/GoogleReviews
The views here are phenomenal, but the camping and hiking are just as awesome! Another fantastic stop is the Path of Life Sculpture Garden.
4. Bellows Falls is a charming town along the Connecticut River that's rich in both history and natural beauty.
Bellows Falls, Town of Rockingham, VT 05101, USA
Bellows Falls Historical Society
One of the many points of interest worth checking out here is the lovely Waterfront Park along the Connecticut, and the always photo-worthy Grist Mill.
5. The Creamery Covered Bridge is just one of the charming sites to visit when you reach Brattleboro. You can also enjoy a bite at The Marina, a local restaurant that's right on the water too!
Brattleboro, VT 05301, USA
Juergen Roth/GoogleReviews

 

What are some of your favorite spots to visit along the Connecticut River Byway? Feel free to share in the comment section, or give them some love by nominating them for a feature!

If you’d like to take more scenic drives in Vermont, we’ve done the hard work for you! Check out these pre-mapped road trips in Vermont for ideas of where to explore on your next outing. In fact, make it an epic adventure by adding an RV rental to the mix!

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Connecticut River Byway & Related Info

Jennifer | August 18, 2023

Does Vermont have any scenic byways?

Explore the Green Mountain State in the most scenic way possible.. starting with a road trip! A journey down one of Vermont's 10 officially designated scenic byways is never a bad idea, and offers new things to see in every season. From waterfalls to fall foliage to historic sites, natural wonders, small towns, and everything in between, these gorgeous routes are the best way to get to know Vermont!

Since these scenic byways range in length from just a dozen miles to literally hundreds, the options are endless for how to make the most of each segment. Vermont's scenic byways include:

 

You'll also like this pretty scenic route that heads all the way to Canada!

What are some of the prettiest waterfalls in Vermont?

Speaking of waterfalls...Vermont is known for its spectacular scenery, especially in fall and winter. But spring in Vermont offers its own set of rewards, as the state's waterfalls reach peak flow. Just a few of the prettiest waterfalls in Vermont are:

 

 

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