There’s something timeless about a good picnic. It’s a simple pleasure: great views, good food, and a little time to slow down and take in your surroundings. If you’re in Vermont, you’re already halfway there. As a lifelong local and outdoorsman, I’ve spent more afternoons than I can count hiking to ridgelines, paddling across still lakes, and rolling out a blanket beside some of the prettiest views in New England.
This guide is for the folks looking to get outside and enjoy a scenic lunch in the fresh Vermont air. Whether you’re a local itching for a weekend escape, a couple looking for a romantic date spot, or a tourist hoping to eat your sandwich beside a waterfall, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dig into Vermont’s most scenic picnic spots, sorted by what kind of vibe you’re looking for.
1. Best Mountain View Picnic Spots
If your perfect picnic includes sweeping views of distant peaks and valleys, these mountaintop and hillside spots are for you.
Mount Philo State Park (Charlotte)
This is one of the most accessible mountain-top picnic spots in the state. You can either hike a gentle 1.9-mile loop or drive straight to the top. There’s a large grassy area, picnic tables, and incredible panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. Great for sunsets too.
Hogback Mountain (Marlboro)
Right along Route 9, this former ski hill offers a 100-mile view and plenty of grassy areas to throw down a blanket. There’s a small gift shop with local goodies and a few picnic tables available. It’s never too crowded, and you’re just a few miles from Brattleboro if you need supplies.
Prospect Rock (Manchester)
Short but rewarding, the 1.5-mile hike to Prospect Rock leads to a ledge with a beautiful view of the Manchester Valley and Mount Equinox. While there aren’t official picnic tables, it’s a quiet spot where you can enjoy your lunch in peace.
2. Lakefront and Riverbank Picnic Areas
Waterfront picnics come with the bonus soundtrack of birdsong and lapping waves. Bring your swimsuit and make a day of it.
Lake Elmore State Park (Elmore)
This underrated gem has everything: a sandy beach, picnic tables, grills, and canoe rentals. The view across the lake toward Elmore Mountain is stunning. You can even hike up the fire tower before or after lunch.
Crystal Lake State Park (Barton)
A favorite among Northeast Kingdom locals, this lake is known for its clear water and peaceful setting. There’s a beach with changing rooms, picnic tables, and plenty of shade under big old pines. Great spot for families.
North Beach Park (Burlington)
Just minutes from downtown, this is Burlington’s go-to beach spot. It’s busier than the others, but the combination of sandy shoreline, grassy areas, and food vendors makes it a solid choice. Plus, there’s a paved bike path nearby for a post-picnic ride.
Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge (Swanton)
Looking for a quieter scene? This federally protected area on the Canadian border is a peaceful spot to picnic by the Missisquoi River. Bring your binoculars—this is one of the best birding spots in the state.
3. Secluded & Hidden Gem Picnic Spots
Want something a little more off the beaten path? These are my personal favorites for a quiet afternoon.
Kettle Pond (Groton State Forest)
Rent a canoe or hike in to one of the primitive lean-tos on the edge of Kettle Pond. You’ll be completely surrounded by forest, with loons calling in the distance. There are no picnic tables, but the rocky shoreline is perfect for a rugged, scenic lunch.
Moose Bog (Island Pond)
This tucked-away boardwalk loop near Wenlock Wildlife Management Area is magical. It’s one of the only places in Vermont where you can reliably spot boreal birds like gray jays and black-backed woodpeckers. It’s a short walk in, and you’ll want to bring your own seat or use a log for your picnic.
Braintree Mountain Forest (Braintree)
Locals know this as a great place for backcountry skiing in the winter, but it’s just as beautiful in summer. Hike up to one of the open ledges for your picnic and enjoy big-sky views with no crowds.
4. Covered Bridges & Historic Charm Picnic Spots
Nothing says “Vermont” like a covered bridge and a basket of snacks.
Emily’s Bridge (Stowe)
This spooky little covered bridge has a peaceful trail network nearby. It’s walking distance from town, but quiet enough that you can hear the brook babbling beneath your feet. There are no official picnic facilities, but plenty of flat rocks and grassy nooks to spread out.
Thetford Covered Bridge Picnic Area (Thetford Center)
Located right off Route 113, this one is an actual designated picnic area with a couple of tables and a lovely little river bend. In the fall, the foliage here is fantastic.
Waitsfield Covered Bridge Green (Waitsfield)
A classic Vermont village green by the Mad River. You’ll see kids swimming, farmers market tents, and families laying out checkered blankets. There are picnic tables and a walkable town center if you want to grab provisions.
5. Family-Friendly Picnic Parks
If you’ve got kids or just want easy access, these are great picks with plenty to do nearby.
Oakledge Park (Burlington)
Picnic areas, walking trails, a treehouse-style playground, and a rocky beach for swimming. This spot is easy to access and full of families during the summer months. There’s even an adaptive bike center nearby for rentals.
Depot Park (St. Johnsbury)
Right in the heart of town, this park has a splash pad, playground, and shade trees. Great for a quick lunch stop if you’re traveling through the Northeast Kingdom. There’s also an excellent natural history museum (Fairbanks Museum) right across the street.
Wrightsville Beach (Montpelier)
A local favorite just outside Montpelier. It’s not huge, but it has everything you need: paddleboard rentals, beach access, grassy picnic spots, and a mellow crowd.
6. Fall Foliage Picnic Picks
These spots come alive in late September and early October.
Oxbow Park (Newbury)
A quiet bend in the Connecticut River with massive maples that turn fire-red in the fall. There’s a small loop trail, picnic tables, and gorgeous river reflections when the leaves hit peak.
Shelburne Farms Trails (Shelburne)
Bring a backpack and walk one of the scenic trails that wind through meadows and woods, eventually reaching a quiet lakeside spot. This is one of the most photogenic places in Vermont during fall. You’ll need to pack everything out, as there are no tables or trash bins deep in the trail system.
Mount Tom (Woodstock)
You can hike or drive up to the summit for a picnic with panoramic views. Or, keep it easy and relax at the base near Billings Farm, where there are walking paths, grassy fields, and benches. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by fall color.
7. What to Pack for a Vermont Picnic
Preparation makes the difference between a good picnic and a great one.
Essentials:
- Blanket or lightweight folding chairs
- Bug spray (especially near lakes or woods)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Trash bags or reusable containers
- Water bottles or thermos
Vermont-Inspired Picnic Foods:
- Sharp cheddar from Cabot or Shelburne Farms
- Fresh bread from Red Hen or La Panciata
- Maple cookies or maple kettle corn
- Seasonal fruit like apples, blueberries, or strawberries
- Local cider or lemonade
- Hard cheese, salami, and pickles from local farms
- For dessert: maple creemees or cider donuts
8. Picnic Etiquette and Safety Tips
A few reminders to help you picnic like a local:
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash, food scraps, and recyclables. Even apple cores can attract wildlife.
- Respect Wildlife: Don’t feed animals or chase birds. Keep a respectful distance.
- Grilling Guidelines: Only grill in designated areas and never leave fires unattended.
- Be Tick Smart: Stick to cleared areas and check yourself (and your dog) after visiting grassy or wooded spots.
- Noise Awareness: Keep music low and be mindful of others who are there for peace and quiet.
Final Thoughts: Where Will You Picnic First?
Vermont is full of beautiful spots that make for the perfect picnic setting. Whether you’re lakeside with a fishing pole, up on a ledge watching hawks glide by, or sprawled out under a maple tree beside a covered bridge, there’s a special kind of joy in eating outside with a view.
So grab a basket, pick your spot, and soak up everything our little corner of the world has to offer. And if you stumble on a new favorite picnic spot, don’t be afraid to share it. Or keep it a secret. That’s the Vermont way too.
Looking for more ideas? Check out my guides to the best beginner hikes in Vermont and hidden waterfalls! Happy picnicking!
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