Vermont RT 100 Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: A Scenic Journey Through Green Mountains and Quaint Villages
Imagine cruising along Vermont’s most iconic highway, Route 100, with a guide in your pocket, revealing the stories behind every bend. For $16.99 per group, you get a flexible, self-guided experience that takes you through picturesque towns, lush forests, and mountain vistas, all complemented by a compelling audio narration. This tour, lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours, is perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace without the constraints of a group or guided bus.
Two aspects really shine about this experience. First, the detailed narration—reviewers rave about how informative and entertaining the stories are, making the drive feel like a mini-road trip with a knowledgeable friend. Second, the flexibility—you can start whenever you like, pause for meals or photos, and revisit the route over the next year, making this an excellent choice for extended stays or repeat visits.
One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need good internet or Wi-Fi to download the app and your tour; once downloaded, it functions offline, which is ideal. For travelers who enjoy exploring charming towns, scenic landscapes, and learning about local history and culture, this tour hits all the right notes.
This experience suits adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers eager to discover Vermont’s hidden gems at their own pace, especially during the spectacular fall foliage season or for those wanting a flexible, affordable way to see Vermont beyond typical tourist spots.
Key Points
- Flexible self-guided experience: Start anytime, pause, and revisit the route over a year.
- Rich storytelling: Engaging narration highlights local history, landmarks, and hidden treasures.
- Great value: One purchase covers up to 4 people, making it budget-friendly and ideal for families or small groups.
- Impressive scenery: Experience Vermont’s famous fall foliage, charming villages, and mountain vistas.
- Convenient app: Download the tour in advance, works offline, and uses simple audio cues for navigation.
- Variety of stops: From historic covered bridges to local eateries and scenic overlooks, the route offers something for all.
A Deep Dive into the Vermont RT 100 Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
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An Introduction to Vermont’s Scenic Route
Starting in Wilmington, this tour quickly immerses you in Vermont’s quintessential charm. Wilmington’s lush landscapes and mountain views set the tone for what’s to come. You’re not just driving; you’re uncovering stories about the land, towns, and people who shaped this region. With a fare of just $16.99 per group, it’s an excellent value—especially considering the extensive route that covers roughly 160 miles of Vermont’s best scenery. You can expect to spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring the highlights, but you can easily extend or shorten your journey depending on your pace and interests.
Why We Love This Tour
Two standout features make this experience appealing. First, the narrative quality—reviewers like Cynthia emphasize how the “informative and entertaining” narration makes the drive fly by. The storytelling isn’t just facts; it’s infused with personality, making each stop feel like a personal tour. Second, the flexibility—you get the freedom to start your journey when it suits you, pause for lunch or photos, and revisit the route as many times as you like within a year. This is particularly handy if you’re planning a longer Vermont stay or want to do parts of the drive on different days.
A Few Considerations
You’ll need reliable Wi-Fi or cellular data to download the app and your tour beforehand; once downloaded, the tour works offline. Without a strong signal, navigation could be tricky, so plan your download in a location with good internet. Also, since this is a self-guided experience, you won’t have a tour guide right beside you, which means you’ll need to pay attention to the audio cues and route instructions.
Who Should Take This Tour?
If you love scenic drives, local food, and learning about Vermont’s culture, this tour is a match. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a personalized adventure with plenty of flexibility. It’s perfect during the peak foliage season when Vermont’s hills are painted in vivid reds, oranges, and yellows, or any time you want to explore Vermont’s charming small towns at your own pace.
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The Route and Stops: What To Expect
Wilmington and the Start of the Adventure
Your journey begins in Wilmington, a town surrounded by mountains and forests. From here, the route moves through lush landscapes, setting the scene for a quintessential Vermont road trip. The narration kicks in with tidbits about local history and notable sights, giving you context as you travel.
Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
A highlight for many is a stop at the Trapp Family Lodge—famously associated with the Von Trapp family of “Sound of Music” fame. Situated on 2,500 acres, this spot offers scenic vistas and a taste of Austrian mountain charm. You might enjoy a quick walk around the grounds or simply marvel at the stunning alpine architecture. Since admission is free, it’s a delightful, low-key stop that adds a touch of European flair to your Vermont experience.
Stowe Mountain Resort and Smugglers’ Notch
Next up, the Stowe Mountain Resort is impossible to miss, with its panoramic views and the gondola station. Keep in mind, the gondola’s warm-weather operation kicks in mid-September—meaning if you’re there earlier or later, you might miss the ride but still enjoy the vistas.
Just past is Smugglers’ Notch Resort, known as “America’s Family Resort”. It’s a lively spot offering outdoor activities for all ages—skiing in winter, mountain biking, and hiking in summer. The scenic drive through the notch itself is spectacular, with towering cliffs and winding roads that make for memorable photo opportunities.
Stowe Village and Local Food Delights
The charming village of Stowe marks a perfect place for a quick exploration. The narrator suggests turning left at the junction if you wish to stroll and find parking—ideal for grabbing a bite or just soaking in the mountain-town vibe. Vermont is famous for its apple cider, and a stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill is highly recommended. Here, you can sample fresh cider and enjoy the rustic atmosphere.
Foodie Stops: Cabot and Waterbury
Vermont’s dairy heritage is front and center. The tour takes you to Cabot, renowned for its cheese, and then to Waterbury, home to both Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory and other local treats. The Ben & Jerry’s stop, one of Vermont’s most visited attractions, offers a sweet peek into the state’s ice cream legacy. Expect patience during peak times—lines can be long in summer or foliage season, but it’s worth the wait for the iconic flavors.
Mountain Resorts and Quirky Towns
Further along, the route visits Mad River Valley with its ski areas like Sugarbush Farm and Warren, a town full of character. You’ll also pass by Robert Frost Wayside Trail, a quiet spot for reflection and a nod to Vermont’s literary history.
Iconic Landmarks and Natural Beauty
The Green Mountain Oasis offers a chance to see the restored train station-turned-visitor center. Then, you’ll pass the Calvin Coolidge Homestead—if you’re interested in presidential history, it’s a quick peek worth considering. The drive continues past Lake Rescue, a serene spot perfect for a quick photo.
Final Stops: Ski Resorts and Mountain Towns
As you near the end, Killington and Okemo Mountain Resort stand out as popular ski destinations, perfect for winter visitors or summer hikers. The tour wraps up with a stop at Londonderry, a small town with a rich Irish heritage, and a scenic note at Jamaica State Park or Buttermilk Falls—ideal for stretching your legs or cooling off on hot days.
Authentic Experiences and Practical Details
We loved the variety of stops and scenery, from mountain vistas to quaint villages and food stops. The fact that the narration is well-reviewed means you’ll learn interesting stories without needing a guide walking beside you. The offline map and audio cues are a big plus: you can enjoy the route without worrying about signal loss, especially in remote mountain areas.
The price point of just $16.99 per group makes this a very affordable way to explore Vermont. Remember, you’re paying for one tour for up to four people, so it’s ideal for small groups or families—more cost-effective than guided tours or bus excursions.
One small caveat: this isn’t an entrance ticket to attractions—be prepared for some stops that may require their own admission fee if you want to go inside or participate in activities. Also, while the tour is self-paced, some spots like Ben & Jerry’s can get crowded, so plan your timing accordingly.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who prefers to control your own schedule, enjoys scenic drives, and loves local stories and food, this tour offers great value. It’s especially attractive during fall foliage season when the landscape bursts into color. Families with kids, couples seeking a romantic drive, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful exploration will all find this experience rewarding.
Final Thoughts
The Vermont RT 100 Self Guided Driving Audio Tour offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, authentic towns, and engaging storytelling—all at a very accessible price. It’s a thoughtful way to experience Vermont’s natural charm and cultural highlights without the constraints of a group tour, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
For travelers wanting a personalized, cost-effective, and entertaining way to discover Vermont’s famous mountain vistas, quaint villages, and tasty local fare, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to download the app before you start, pack your curiosity, and get ready for a memorable Vermont adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a ticket for each person?
No, you purchase one ticket per car, which covers up to four people. It’s designed for small groups or families traveling together.
How long does the tour take?
The main route is about 3-4 hours, but you can extend or shorten your trip by pausing or exploring stops longer or shorter, according to your interests.
Is the tour suitable during fall foliage season?
Absolutely. The tour is especially popular in the fall when Vermont’s landscape is painted in vibrant colors, making the drive even more spectacular.
What do I need to do before starting the tour?
Download the Action Tour Guide App and your designated tour in advance while connected to Wi-Fi. The app works offline once downloaded, so you can enjoy the drive without signal worries.
Are there any additional costs for attractions?
Yes, the tour does not include entrance fees for specific attractions like Ben & Jerry’s. If you wish to go inside or participate in activities, be prepared for extra charges.
Can I do the tour in parts?
Yes, since it’s self-guided, you can start, pause, and restart the tour as you wish, making it flexible to fit your schedule.
In summary, this self-guided tour offers an engaging, flexible way to experience Vermont’s scenic Route 100. It’s perfect for those who enjoy independence, authentic local stories, and stunning landscapes, all at an accessible price point. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this drive promises a memorable journey through Vermont’s charming mountains and villages.