Spring Fun

Bowling

Derby Lanes, in Derby is one of the rare establishments still offering the opportunity for Candlepin Bowling. This is a treat for any ten-pin bowler. Call 802-766-2672 to reserve a lane for Candlepin bowling.

Hiking

With access to the Long Trail from Jay Peak, and hiking the trails of Hazen’s Notch, hikers will think they have found paradise as they travel the mountains of northern Vermont.

Horseback Riding

Riding Lessons
Two local stables offer riding opportunites and lessons: Rustler’s Horseback Riding Camp – Riding lessons, North Troy; and Foxwood Stables, Derby, call Jeanne Hamblett at 802-766-4756 to make arrangements for riding.

Trail Rides
Lajoie welcomes all riders, age 5 and up, regardless of abilities. They have a trail and horse for every rider, and trail horses are all gentle and well trained. Lajoie specializes in first time riders. Trail rides begin on a hand cut trail through serene woodlands and into Lajoie’s Christmas tree grove. Upon exiting the grove of blue spruce and pine the mountain views will take your breath away. Mount Mansfield stands proud and majestic above the tree line. Even the slopes of Smugglers Notch ski resort are visible from the trail.

After taking in the view you can chose either a quiet laid back ride or a slightly faster paced ride through open fields. The trail then returns to the woods past the riding arena and over a small stream. One hour rides return to the stables past their corral and herd of horses.

For the experienced rider Lajoie offers longer and more vigorous rides through some rough terrain, up and down hills and over Black Creek.

Summer and Winter Trail Rides:
Groups Gentle Rides – 1 hour w/ picture taking opportunity
More Upbeat Rides – 1 hour w/ picture taking opportunity
Private Rides: Pace As Requested – 2 hours

Call for additional details on the types of rides available and pricing. For your convenience, Lajoie accepts Visa and Mastercard.

Lajoie Stables
992 Pollander Road
Jeffersonville, VT
(802) 644-5347

Nature and Wildlife Viewing

There are many opportunities while visiting the Phineas Swann to get a little closer to nature, whether you would like to do some wildlife viewing or simply admire the ‘Natural Wonders’ of the area.

Hazen’s Notch Winter Festival
Normally held in March – Please ask us for this year’s date
Natural resource managers, ecologists & environmental educators lead presentations on a variety of topics to include: wildlife tracking, winter tree identification, beaver pond ecology, winter adaptations, & maple sugaring. Non-members: Adults/$10, Children/$5. Members: Adults/$7, Children/$3.

Local Natural Wonders

Balance Rock – From Rte. 242 turn right on Route 101 to connect up with 100 South (a wonderfully scenic road which passes small family farms, old villages, and charming white churches with verdant mountains as a backdrop) to the small unpaved road, Balance Rock Road which leads to the natural wonder, Balance Rock. Balance Rock Road about 4 miles south of the intersection of 101 and 100.
Big Falls – To reach Big Falls, turn left on Rte 100 North, and travel just under ½ mile north of the intersection of Rte 101 and Rte 100 to the small unpaved road, River Road, in Troy. River Road not only leads to Big Falls – Vermont’s Largest waterfalls, but passes River Road Bridge – a particularly beautiful red covered bridge along the way.
Four Corners – After visiting the falls, you can get back to 101 by passing through the River Road Bridge onto the Vielleux Road. If you have the time, while in area travel visit the Four Corners Swimming Hole. Just as you connect up with Route 101, you will see the Jay Four Corners convenience store on your right. The swimming hole, which takes its name from the convenience store, is directly across the street from the store. There is a large dirt parking lot, you can’t miss it! (We should note, however, that while we think the 4 corners swimming hole is “nice”, it is just not as nice as our own “Three Holes Swimming Hole” in Montgomery!)