Washington County, Vermont is located in the northwestern corner of the state and borders both New York and Quebec, Canada. It is known as Vermont’s “Northeast Kingdom” due to its rural beauty and rich history. The county has a population of approximately 56,000 people spread across its eight townships: Barre City, Barre Town, Duxbury, Montpelier City, Northfield, Plainfield, Waitsfield and Warren.
According to psyknowhow.com, Washington County has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the first settlers who arrived in 1790. The county was formed from parts of Orange County in 1810 and was named after President George Washington. Since then it has served as an agricultural center for the region as well as a major transportation hub due to its proximity to both Canada and New York State.
Today, Washington County is home to several attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Some of these include: Stowe Mountain Resort – one of New England’s premier ski areas; Smugglers Notch – a picturesque mountain pass that connects Stowe with Cambridge; Montpelier – Vermont’s capital city; Quechee Gorge – a stunning deep river gorge; Waterbury Reservoir – an ideal spot for fishing or boating; Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory – where visitors can see how their favorite flavors are made; Mad River Valley – a lovely valley dotted with small towns and farms; and Lake Champlain – one of the largest lakes in North America.
In addition to its numerous attractions, Washington County is also home to some famous people from Vermont such as former governor Howard Dean, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), comedian Seth Meyers (SNL), actress Parker Posey (Best in Show) and writer Nathaniel Hawthorne (The Scarlet Letter).
Washington County offers something for everyone. From outdoor recreation opportunities like skiing or fishing on Lake Champlain to historical sites such as Quechee Gorge or Ben & Jerry’s factory tour – there is something here for everyone.
Climate and weather in Washington County, Vermont
According to andyeducation.com, Washington County, Vermont has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. The average temperature in July is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. During the cold winter months, temperatures drop to an average low of 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Snowfall can be expected during the winter months, with an average of 80 inches per year. Spring and autumn are milder seasons in Washington County, with temperatures ranging from 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit and less precipitation than other seasons. The weather can be unpredictable in Vermont, so it’s important to dress appropriately for all types of weather. Rain is common throughout the year but especially during the spring and summer months when thunderstorms can occur frequently. Winters tend to be relatively dry but snow storms can occur throughout the season as well. Washington County experiences mild temperatures and a variety of weather conditions throughout the year that provide an enjoyable atmosphere for visitors and residents alike.
Transportation in Washington County, Vermont
Washington County, Vermont has an extensive transportation network that serves both locals and visitors alike. The major highways in the area include Interstate 89, US Route 2, and US Route 7. There are also several secondary roads which provide access to the various towns and cities in the county. Public transportation in Washington County is provided by the Green Mountain Transit Agency (GMTA). The GMTA operates buses throughout the county as well as connecting to larger cities like Burlington and Montpelier. Amtrak’s Vermonter line runs through Washington County with stops in White River Junction and Waterbury. Additionally, there are several taxi companies that serve the county as well as various ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. For those looking to travel by air, Burlington International Airport is located just outside of Burlington and provides access to destinations across the United States and Canada. Washington County provides a variety of transportation options for those travelling within or outside of Vermont.
Cities and towns in Washington County, Vermont
According to Countryaah, Washington County, Vermont is home to numerous cities and towns, each of which offers its own unique charm and attractions. The county seat is Montpelier, the state capital. This small city is home to many government offices as well as several museums and historic sites. It also features a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Other cities in the county include Barre, which has an impressive granite quarry; Northfield, which is known for its picturesque landscape; and Waterbury, which features a variety of outdoor activities.
In addition to these larger cities, Washington County also hosts numerous small towns. Randolph is known for its antiques stores and historical buildings, while Stowe is a popular tourist destination due to its ski resorts and other outdoor activities. Waitsfield provides access to the Mad River Valley while Woodstock offers a quaint small-town atmosphere with plenty of shops and restaurants. Warren is home to Sugarbush Resort while Manchester has become an increasingly popular destination due to its proximity to other attractions in southern Vermont.
Washington County provides visitors with a variety of different cities and towns that offer unique experiences for those looking for a relaxing vacation or an exciting getaway. From charming small towns to bustling cities full of culture and history, Washington County has something for everyone.