15 Best Places to View the Vermont Eclipse in 2024

Are you looking for a guide on where to go for the 2024 eclipse path in Vermont?

I live in Vermont and there is a ton of exciting chatter happening about all the events and the best spots to view the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. I’m so excited to experience this phenomenon in my home state!

Northern Vermont, specifically, will be in complete totality during the eclipse, which means the day will turn to night for several minutes and we are all in for the treat of a lifetime.

I’ve researched the best scenic places to view it and have gathered all the necessary advice for an optimal viewing experience here in Vermont.

Witnessing a solar eclipse is a rare and extraordinary occurrence, creating a unique opportunity for you to travel somewhere new and make an adventure out of it. The population of many towns in Vermont is expected to swell!

So read on, for the Vermont total eclipse guide to start making plans, it’s going to be HUGE!

🌨 It’s important to note that weather conditions can significantly impact visibility during an eclipse. April is considered mud season in Vermont but there can also be snow! 🌨

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Vermont Eclipse 2024 Guide

Vermont is a great place to view the total solar eclipse of 2024 because it will be in the path of totality for the eclipse. This means that those of us lucky enough to be here will experience the full effect!

Eclipse2024.org provides a list of all the cities and towns in Vermont that will be in the path of totality for the eclipse.

Demand for hotels and other activities around the time of the eclipse is already high because many people are excited to witness it here!

If you are a photographer, finding a spot near a lake or river to take advantage of the reflections off the water seems like a good idea! Mountaintop viewing should also be epic.

But, let’s be honest, any public location you choose that welcomes visitors in Vermont will give you a memorable experience! Let’s cross our fingers for clear skies on April 8, 2024!

SAFETY TIP: Stopping in the middle of a road or pulling over in random locations in Vermont will not be a safe decision! Plan ahead to arrive at a designated parking area and give yourself ample time to get set up for viewing the eclipse.

Americans awestruck by rare total solar eclipse

Where to View the Total Solar Eclipse in Vermont 2024

Here is a list of suggestions for where you can travel in order to view the total solar eclipse in Vermont. Keep in mind that there will be traffic and tens of thousands more people in any area at one given time.

If you want to avoid the crowds consider finding a good camping spot up north as it is the shoulder season so it’s not typically the activity most will choose that time of year. Or, head out on a hiking or backpacking trip on the Long Trail and enjoy the eclipse from a peak on your journey!

So, be respectful of locals and other travelers, plan ahead, make reservations if needed, and arrive in the morning at your chosen viewing spot and enjoy making an event out of this opportunity!

1. Burlington Waterfront Park, Burlington, VT

Also, according to NASA’s website, Burlington will experience a partial eclipse starting at 2:14 p.m. EST, totality from 3:26pm to 3:29pm with the partial eclipse trailing off at 4:37pm.

This beautiful lakeside park is a favorite of mine for picnicking and daydreaming. It offers an unobstructed view of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains.

The waterfront definitely provides a serene setting for witnessing the eclipse, with plenty of open space. The other bonus is that Burlington is home to many wonderful eateries and restaurants to hit up after the eclipse.

✅ BOOK Your Accommodation now at Hotel Vermont or the
Courtyard Burlington Harbor

2. Stowe Mountain Resort, Stowe, VT

The Stowe area is a very popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who visit from all over the world and with good reason! It is full of great restaurants, trails, and opportunities to soak up nature. Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, offers epic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Due to its elevated position, Stowe Mountain Resort offers an excellent vantage point to observe the solar eclipse. Consider taking the gondola up to the peak! Remember, there will still be plenty of snow in April, so bundle up for this adventure.

✅ BOOK Your Accommodation now at The Lodge at Spruce Peak
or the Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa

3. Bennington Battle Monument, Bennington, VT

The Bennington Battle Monument is a historic landmark with a 306-foot-high stone obelisk that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Its elevated position provides an excellent spot to witness the solar eclipse and the obelisk will add interest to your photo!

While the ascent of the 417 steps to the top of the monument is unavailable until May, visitors can still appreciate the impressive limestone exterior and enjoy the views from the base and visit the quaint town of Bennington itself.

✅ BOOK Your Accommodation now at The Four Chimneys Inn
or the Hampton Inn Bennington

4. Killington Peak, Killington, VT

As the second-highest peak in Vermont, Killington Peak provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys. Sitting at an impressive elevation of 4,241 feet, it’s best known as the home of the largest downhill ski area in the eastern United States – the Killington Ski Resort.

Taking the gondola to the summit can offer a prime location to observe the eclipse. Want to get there on foot? If the weather is cooperative, one popular hiking route to the peak is via the Bucklin Trail, a challenging 7.2-mile out-and-back trail near Mendon, Vermont. It can be icy near the top so bring trekking poles.

✅ BOOK Your Accommodation now at Killington Grand Resort Hotel
or the Snowed Inn.

5. Lake Champlain Islands, VT

The Lake Champlain Islands are a group of picturesque islands located in the northern part of Vermont. Comprising five main islands – South Hero, Grand Isle, North Hero, Alburgh, and Isle La Motte – each island has its unique charm and character.

With their tranquil settings and unobstructed views, these islands can provide a serene atmosphere to observe the solar eclipse!

Furthermore, the islands’ close proximity to Burlington and Montreal makes them a perfect getaway for those seeking a blend of city life and serene landscapes.

6. Mad River Valley, VT

The Mad River Valley, nestled in the heart of Vermont, is admired for its scenic lush landscapes and idyllic surroundings. This area can offer a great backdrop for viewing the eclipse despite it being mud season in the area!

The Mad River Valley is also home to charming towns like Fayston, Moretown, Warren, and Waitsfield, where you can discover local artisan shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and friendly locals who add to the community’s authentic feel.

The Mad River gracefully meanders through the valley, revealing an abundance of serene riverside spots for viewing the eclipse. For those seeking a touch of winter’s charm, the valley’s ski areas retain their snowy mantles well into the season, offering high-altitude viewpoints.

✅ Stay at the Hostel Tevere or Sugarbush Resort for a memorable getaway.

7. Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

Smugglers’ Notch State Resort is a natural treasure nestled within the Green Mountains. The resort is named after a narrow pass, flanked by 1,000-foot cliffs, through the mountains. This area was famously used by smugglers in the early 19th century, hence its intriguing name.

The resort’s secluded far north location and stunning mountain views make it a great spot to witness the solar eclipse!

When the weather warms up, the fun doesn’t stop here. The resort transforms into a summer haven with eight pools, four waterslides, guided hiking tours, children’s programs, and a zip-line canopy tour.

🚨 Please be aware that the Smugglers’ Notch Pass, located on Route 108 between Stowe and Jeffersonville, is NOT ACCESSIBLE for winter travel from mid-October to mid-May.

8. Quechee Gorge, Quechee, VT

Known as Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon,” Quechee Gorge is a natural wonder. Its deep gorge and gorgeous views from the US Route 4 bridge offer a unique perspective for experiencing the eclipse.

In addition, its proximity to the charming town of Quechee allows visitors to explore local artisans, antique shops, and the famous Simon Pearce glassblowing studio and restaurant.

✅ BOOK the Woodstock Inn or the Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm for a comfortable stay nearby.

9. Saint Albans, Vermont

St. Albans is situated on the shores of Lake Champlain with incredible views and numerous picnic spots along its coastline. You can enjoy setting up at the town park on the sandy beaches, at designated picnic areas, or even find a quiet spot under the shade of a tree near the water.

You can also explore the Hard’ack Ski Hill Area, which features trails, open fields, and scenic views, providing ample space viewing. It is one of the smallest ski hills in Vermont!

10. Lake Willoughby, Westmore, VT

Lake Willoughby is an absolutely stunning glacial lake nestled between towering mountains. Its crystal-clear waters may still be frozen but will absolutely still provide dramatic scenery and a stunning backdrop for witnessing the solar eclipse.

With its striking resemblance to a Norwegian fjord due to its deep, glacially carved features, Lake Willoughby provides a tranquil and scenic setting for this experience.

✅ Stay at the Mountain Lake Cottages for a peaceful lakeside retreat.

11. Jay Peak Resort, Jay, VT

Located in the northern part of Vermont, Jay Peak Resort is the northernmost major ski area in the state. Its elevated position and expansive vistas make it an excellent spot to observe the eclipse. The Jay Peak Tram is set to commence its operations for the day at 2 pm, transporting people to the summit!

I definitely recommend this location for families looking to have an adventure and stay for a few days since Jay Peak has the Pump House waterpark which is full of fun attractions, including slides, a lazy river, pools, and more.

✅ BOOK the Jay Peak Resort for a convenient stay right at the resort.

12. Colchester Causeway, Colchester, VT

The Colchester Causeway, or the Island Line Trail, is a 13.4-mile scenic pathway. The trail begins on the mainland in Colchester and extends over 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) across Lake Champlain connecting to South Hero Island.

It was once an old railway line and is now a popular destination for bicyclists, walkers, and joggers. On either side of the trail, you’ll see stunning views of the lake, with the Adirondack Mountains visible in the distance. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. 

13. Rikert Nordic Center, Ripton, VT

Rikert Nordic Center is a popular cross-country skiing destination that would be a serene location for observing the eclipse. If there is still snow in early April, it will serve as an ideal spot to plan for a casual ski day with a snack and coffee break at the time of the eclipse!

Owned and operated by Middlebury College, the center is situated on the campus of the Middlebury Bread Loaf School of English in Ripton, about 20 minutes from Middlebury. The Nordic Center is fully ADA-accessible, making it an inclusive spot for outdoor activities

✅ BOOK the Middlebury Inn or The Swift House for a convenient cozy retreat.

14. Lake Bomoseen, Castleton, VT

Lake Bomoseen, nestled in Vermont’s beautiful Taconic Mountains, is the largest lake entirely within Vermont’s borders, offering beautiful views and an idyllic location to experience the solar eclipse.

It is a lovely place to visit in April as spring begins to arrive. As the weather starts to warm up, outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching become particularly enjoyable, with trails around the lake offering beautiful views of emerging spring flora and fauna.

Attractions like the Bomoseen State Park and the Vermont Marble Museum add to the charm.

✅ For a panoramic view of the lake, the Lake Bomoseen Lodge is a great spot!

15. Hubbard Park, Montpelier VT

Visiting Hubbard Park for the 2024 solar eclipse promises to be an extraordinary experience. The park, known for its beautiful landscapes and tranquil setting, offers a perfect backdrop for witnessing this celestial event.

Hubbard Park Tower is the highest point of Hubbard Park and would be a fun spot to view the eclipse from! With over 7 miles of trails, picnic areas, and the 54-foot observation tower that offers panoramic views of downtown Montpelier and the Green Mountains, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy.

⭐️ Remember that these recommendations are suggestions and it’s important to consult updated resources and local information for the most accurate and up-to-date details on eclipse viewing locations and accommodations.

How Long Will the 2024 Solar Eclipse Last in Vermont?

The eclipse will begin on April 8th, 2024 at 2:14 pm EST. In towns in Vermont with totality, the sky will gradually darken, and then at 3:26 pm EST, there will be a complete total eclipse that lasts for 3 minutes!

In North America, the states of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are all in the path of totality for the eclipse.

Looking directly at the sun, particularly during a solar eclipse, can be extremely harmful to your eyes. The intense brightness and radiation emitted by the sun can cause serious damage to the retina. So, it is crucial to take appropriate precautions and wear protective glasses when observing solar eclipses or the sun in general.

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What Happens During a Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, causing the Moon to temporarily block some or all of the Sun’s light from reaching certain areas on Earth.

This celestial alignment is possible due to the Moon’s orbit around the Earth and the Earth’s orbit around the Sun.

There are three types of solar eclipses: total, partial, and annular.

✔️ During a total solar eclipse, the Moon aligns perfectly with the Sun, completely blocking its light and creating temporary twilight-like darkness on Earth.

✔️ In a partial solar eclipse, the Moon partially covers the Sun, resulting in a crescent-shaped Sun.

✔️ An annular eclipse happens when the Moon is farthest from the Earth, and its apparent size appears smaller than the Sun, causing the Sun to create a bright ring, or annulus, around the Moon.

The occurrence of a solar eclipse is not frequent because the Moon’s orbit is tilted compared to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. As a result, most of the time, the Moon’s shadow misses the Earth.

FAQS: Vermont Solar Eclipse 2024

Many people are excited about the total solar eclipse in Vermont so here are some questions and answers to common questions.

The path of totality will also extend into parts of Canada, including Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland.

Some notable cities along the path of totality include Dallas, Little Rock, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Montreal. Each location offers its unique experience, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences, accessibility, and the weather forecast for that particular day.

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The Wrap Up on Viewing the Solar Eclipse Vermont 2024

The solar eclipse in Vermont in 2024 offers a remarkable opportunity to witness a rare celestial event. With Burlington, VT, in the path of totality, it provides a prime location for an unforgettable experience.

Plan ahead, secure accommodations, and prioritize eye safety with specialized viewing glasses or indirect methods.

Get ready to be captivated by the beauty and grandeur of the solar eclipse—a truly extraordinary memory in the making.