5 Reasons to Plan a Family Trip to Smugglers’ Notch
by Nora Buchholtz
Need the perfect place to recharge, relax and reconnect with your family? Head to Smugglers’ Notch, a charming resort nestled in the gorgeous Green Mountains of Vermont. Located under an hour away from Burlington, it’s a true escape for families of all sizes and kids of all ages. Every season brings the fun. Ski, snowshoe and tube your way through winter. And when summer rolls around, dive into amazing pools and take your pick of outdoor activities. It’s no surprise that loyal visitors continue to return year after year!
Here are five reasons to plan a family trip to Smugglers’ Notch.
The key to a great vacation is having everything you could ever want at your fingertips. The resort’s five condominium communities feature spacious accommodations and well-equipped kitchens for easy meals when you’re not dining out. Walk or hop on the Resort shuttle to the main Village amenities. There are daily schedules, packed with activities to choose from like a Pirate sing-a-long, Bingo Blast, scavenger hunts, mountain biking lessons, live music, aqua-volleyball and so much more. There are even special programs just for children (yep, you can drop them off with excellent counselors and COVID-19 health and safety precautions in place).
There’s Water Play for Everyone
8 pools + 4 waterslides + 2 freshwater swimming reservoirs = endless water fun at “Smuggs.” A fan favorite is Bootleggers Basin, a freshwater swimming reservoir, complete with a swimming area, picnic spots, and the Aqua Jump Trampoline (for ages 7+). Rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the water and breathtaking Vermont scenery. Swim at the Courtside outdoor (heated!) pool for family fun, and enjoy thrilling rides down the Flume Waterslide. If your kids need a swimming refresher course, the resort offers 30 minute private or semi-private swim lessons. The youngest guests will have a blast on the Turtle Mini-Waterslide, along with the fountains, waterfalls, and lazy river at Little Smugglers’ Lagoon. Kiddos love crossing the floating Lily Pads at Notchville Park, diving under waterfalls at the Cascade Pool, and getting soaked at the Splashville Splash Pad (great for the 6 and under set!).
Outdoor Adventures Await
From babies to big kids, there’s something for everyone in your crew. For those who like action and adventure, there’s no shortage of exhilarating things to do at Smugg’s—all while taking in the area’s exquisite natural beauty. Explore the Lamoille River on canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. There are many guided tours to choose from, including a Maple Tour, an Ice Cream Float (must have Ben & Jerry’s on a river when in VT!), and a grown-up favorite, “Kayaks and Cocktails” that winds down at Smugglers’ Notch Distillery. Thrill seekers will line up to do the zip line canopy tour, packed with high-speed zip lines, tree climbing, and obstacle courses. And if you love to bike, the MTB Center features a flat ground skills park, downhill skills park, and a pump track.
Take the ultimate family excursion by going on a Llama Trek together. Yep, you read that correctly… people of all ages can hike and picnic with sweet, furry companions from the Northern Vermont Llama Company. Kids will be over the moon as they guide their llama along the three-hour experience throughout the nearby woods. The hike is two miles long, but you’ll walk at an easy, leisurely pace… great for llamas and little ones alike!
The Friendly Vibe Makes You Feel like Family
For over six decades, Smugglers' Notch has been helping families create memories that last a lifetime. You can tell that the staff at Smuggs is having just as much fun as the guests—all while ensuring your vacation is stress-free. Their warm, inviting demeanor is like a breath of fresh (mountain) air.