It’s spring, and the Champlain Valley is waking up. By late April, the ice has cleared, and South Hero has a buzz again. If you haven’t spent much time out here between mud season and summer, this is the region’s quietest (and most underrated) window for visitors. Here are some great things to do near South Hero, VT.

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Explore the Champlain Islands in Spring

The stretch of Route 2 running north from South Hero through Grand Isle is one of the most scenic springtime drives in Vermont. The Adirondacks sit across the water to the west, facing the Green Mountains in the east. There is plenty to see, and even more to do. 

Want to ditch the car? Cycle the Island Line Trail instead. It’s 14 miles of mostly shoreline path. The bike ferry reopens in mid-spring, linking South Hero to Burlington. If you are looking for a slower pace, join birdwatchers gathering on the lake’s edge to catch the spring migration. The wetlands around Sand Bar State Park will welcome many types of fowl home for the season. 

Be sure to add the Wednesday afternoon farmer’s market in South Hero to your to-do list. This beloved market draws locals and visitors with an impressive spread of vegetables, fresh fruits, meats, baked goods, wine, spirits, handcrafted goods, and woodworking displays.

Snow Farm Vineyard and Distillery is also worth a visit before the summer crowds begin. 

Outdoor Adventures Near Lake Champlain

Looking for outdoor activities in Lake Champlain, Vermont? Fishing is always a popular spring activity on Lake Champlain. The bays around South Hero hold pike and bass. Anglers will have to share the water with kayakers and paddleboarders as the temperatures warm up. You can rent canoes and kayaks at Sand Bar State Park. 

Off the water, a walk in Niquette Bay State Park has a mile shoreline walk along Lake Champlain that offers a big payoff without a lot of sweat. You’ll find plenty of local attractions in South Hero, VT, too. 

Local Events and Festivals in the Champlain Valley

Spring activities in Lake Champlain, VT include: 

• Island Arts is a non-profit in North Hero that runs events through the spring, such as author talks, barn dances, and live music. 
• The Champlain Valley Expo hosts a calendar of springtime events, from craft markets to concerts.

To find other local events, check out the Champlain Islands website or the Vermont Tourism website for the latest info. 

Visiting Lake Effect Dispensary

Stop somewhere for lunch and enjoy the water or a mountain trail. The area is made for low-key itineraries, and the relaxed pace is part of what makes it so appealing. 

Once you’ve found things to do near Lake Effect Dispensary, be sure to come by and see us! We stock a menu of flower, pre-rolls, edibles, and more, with a knowledgeable staff that’s happy to answer your questions. Find products to complement your springtime plans in the Champlain Valley. You can also browse our full menu on our website and order ahead for fast pick up during your day out.

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