Your Guide to Winter in Burlington, Vermont
The snow is falling, the temperatures are dropping, and it’s peak winter in Burlington — but what do you do for fun? As long as you’ve got a coat and boots (or a cozy blanket and hot cocoa!), you’re ready to get the best that winter in Vermont and Burlington has to offer. Here are some of our students’ favorite things when the weather is cold and the snow is falling.
Best Activities in Burlington During Winter
1. Skiing & Snowboarding
With 5 resorts within an hour’s drive from Burlington, skiing and snowboarding are two of the prime winter activities in Vermont. Resorts like Sugarbush, Bolton Valley, Stowe, Jay Peak, and Smuggler’s Notch are easily accessible, making a day on the slopes a must-do during your stay.
Plus, Champlain students get a discounted Sugarbush pass, and the Ski & Ride club organizes group trips there throughout the season — score!
Burton Winter Jam
Did you know? Each year, Champlain holds the Burton Winter Rail Jam right here on campus? Get your winter gear and start practicing for your chance to enter and win.
About Winter Jam2. Ice Skating
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, why not try ice skating to glide you through the snowy months?
There are multiple ice rinks around town, but one of the most notable is the Leddy Ice Arena. Whether you want to play hockey, figure skate, or just casually glide around the ice, this indoor rink features drop-in ice skating hours that rotate throughout the year and provides on-site rentals for a fee. If you’re looking for an outdoor arena, Callahan Park is another option as well.
Looking for something closer to campus? We host our very own seasonal ice skating rink behind Perry Hall! (Dates variable depending on weather).
Students: No skates — no worries! We’ve got you covered. Visit the Hub Desk in IDX to rent out a free pair.
3. Do a Coffee-Shop Hop
In Downtown Burlington (and all across Church Street), there are multiple coffee shops to explore and try out their signature drinks. Plus, they make fantastic study spots and bring a cozy atmosphere to fuel your study or work session.
Some local recommendations:
Not a coffee fan? Burlington’s got you covered: Dobra Tea is a must-try tea room with tons of different options to choose from.
4. Get Warm Indoors
Is the winter chill biting you? Check out The Flynn Center for Performing Arts and catch a performance, or visit the Vermont Comedy Club for some laughs — after all, some winter days are just too cold.
Or maybe you’re craving something cozier and want to curl up with a good book? Take a look inside Crow Books or Phoenix Books in Burlington, our local indie gems, or check out a book from the historic Fletcher Free Library.
If shopping is calling your name, Church Street has some of the best local businesses that highlight the beauty of the fresh snowfall on their storefronts. If walking between stores outside doesn’t sound appealing, the University Mall has plenty of indoor stores, too!
5. Visit a Local Winter Event
Lucky for you, Vermont has plenty of local Winter events for you to explore!
Looking to stock up on some fresh food for your dorm? Or maybe you’re looking for some handmade crafts? The Burlington Winter Farmers Market has both! The market is open for a couple of weekends between November and April. Plus, it’s not far from home! It is only a 3- minute drive (or 13-minute walk) from our Lakeside Campus. Hop on the shuttle, bring a couple of friends and stock up!
Maybe you’re a fan of fantasy? Each year, the Winter Renaissance Fair pops up around February at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction — just a 15–20 minute drive away from campus. (Hellooo Fashion and Costuming Club or Hearthlight Club members!)
Winter in Burlington & On Campus
Photos say it better than we can.
More Winter Activities & Traditions to Try in Vermont
Beyond Burlington’s city lights, Vermont is full of classic winter adventures and cozy traditions that are worth adding to your list.
More Winter Activities
Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking
Explore nearby trails at places like Red Rocks Park, Ethan Allen Park, or the Intervale. Many Nordic centers also rent snowshoes if you want to wander through quiet forests and open fields.
Cross-Country Skiing
Vermont has excellent Nordic centers, including Bolton Valley Nordic and the Catamount Outdoor Family Center. Groomed trails, peaceful woods, and a great workout make this a favorite with locals.
Sledding & Tubing
Grab a sled and head to a local hill, or visit a resort with dedicated tubing lanes for an easy, laugh-filled afternoon with friends.
Lake Champlain in Winter
Walk the Burlington Bike Path or Waterfront Park after a snowfall to see the lake and Adirondacks in full winter mode. Sunrise and sunset are especially stunning.
Maple & Local Food Traditions
Warm up with Vermont cheddar mac and cheese, maple lattes, and hearty farm-to-table meals. As late winter turns to early spring, sugarhouses start boiling sap — a uniquely Vermont experience if you’re still around.
Winter Festivals & Ice Sculptures
Keep an eye out for regional winter carnivals, ice sculpture walks, and town celebrations across the state. Many small towns host fireworks, bonfires, and outdoor games on snowy weekends.
Hot Chocolate & Cozy Nights In
Sometimes the most “Vermont” winter tradition is staying in — making hot cocoa, watching the snow fall, and leaning into the slower pace of the season with your roommates or friends
Releated Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for winter in Vermont?
Plan for cold, snowy, and sometimes windy conditions — and remember that you’ll be walking between campus buildings, downtown, and the lakefront. A good packing list includes:
- A warm, insulated winter coat (preferably wind- and water-resistant)
- Waterproof winter boots with good traction and thick socks (wool or wool blend)
- Hat, scarf or neck gaiter, and insulated gloves or mittens (mittens are usually warmer)
- Layers: long-sleeve shirts, sweaters or fleeces, and thermal base layers for especially cold days
- Comfortable indoor clothes for hanging out in residence halls and coffee shops
- Optional gear if you want to get outside more: ski/snowboard equipment, snowshoes, or ice skates (you can also rent many of these locally)
If you’re coming from a warmer climate, don’t worry — you can pick up winter essentials at local shops in Burlington once you arrive!
Where’s the best skiing in Vermont?
“Best” depends on what you’re looking for, but several major mountains are within easy reach of Burlington:
- Bolton Valley: One of the closest options to Burlington, with night skiing, a friendly vibe, and both alpine and Nordic trails.
- Stowe: Famous for its challenging terrain, scenic village, and classic New England ski-town feel.
- Sugarbush: Great variety of terrain, from beginner runs to expert steeps and tree skiing — plus that Champlain student pass discount.
- Smugglers’ Notch: Known for family-friendly trails and fun glades, along with beautiful views of the Notch.
- Jay Peak: A bit farther from Burlington, but famous for getting some of the most natural snow in the East.
Many students try a few different mountains over the course of the winter to find their favorite.
Honestly, how harsh are winters in Vermont?
Winters in Vermont are cold and snowy, but they’re also manageable — especially when you’re prepared and willing to embrace the season.
- Temperatures: Daytime highs are often in the 20s °F, with colder stretches dipping below zero, especially at night or during cold snaps.
- Snow: Burlington and the surrounding region see regular snowfall, which means plenty of opportunities for skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing — and the occasional snow day feel on campus.
- Wind and Lake Effect: The wind coming off Lake Champlain can make it feel colder, so windproof layers and good boots make a big difference.
Most students adjust quickly: you learn to layer up, plan a little extra time for walking to class, and balance outdoor adventures with cozy indoor spots. With the right gear and mindset, winter becomes one of the most memorable parts of your Vermont experience.
Ready to Explore Winter in Vermont?
Winter in Vermont is one of the best times of year – and as a Champlain student, you get to explore all of it. The coldest months of the year are no problem when you find ways to get out and make the most of freshly-fallen snow.
Ready to check it out? Explore our Winter Open House and come see it for yourself. (Just don’t forget your coat — and maybe some mittens, too!)
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