It’s nearly April and spring is on its way.  This was a good winter for the skiers and boarders – lots of snow and temperatures cold enough to make even more.  Now, with higher temperatures and longer days coming, skiers are taking their last runs and looking for their next adventure.  Look no further.  Vermont has all the adventure you could want, even in April.

For the outdoor enthusiast, getting back to nature and doing some hiking is a welcome activity.  Check with the Vermont State Parks to find out the best places to hike as well as those areas that are too muddy.  (Hiking on trails that are too wet and muddy can damage the trails or contribute to soil erosion.) A hike through the woods before the leaves cover the trees affords you views you wouldn’t otherwise have.  In addition, you may get a glimpse of wildlife emerging after the winter cold. Once you have chosen your hike, visit Vermont.com to select your lodging.

If fishing is your sport, April is a great time to take to Vermont’s lakes, rivers, and streams. Vermont Fish and Wildlife can answer all your questions about where to fish, what to fish, and what regulations apply.  There is no closed season for many fish on Lake Champlain and beginning the second Saturday in April and continuing into June is catch-and-release season for bass.  Trout season begins the second Saturday of April, but some streams and rivers offer year-round trout fishing. Consult Vermont Fish & Wildlife for full list.

If you’re not really the “outdoors” type, there are also plenty of less strenuous activities in Vermont.  Stay in Manchester and combine your stay with some excellent shopping opportunities.  Visit the unique shops and outlets selling everything from hand-made jewelry to gourmet foods to Vermont souvenirs for the friends back home.  Visit Hilldene, the Lincoln family home, or check out the art on display at the Southern Vermont Arts Center. The Manchester area has a large of number of lodging choices from traditional bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels.  Experience family-friendly lodging at the new Hampton Inn in Manchester, within walking distance of shops and dining.  Or treat yourself to the luxurious accommodations of the boutique Kimpton Taconic Hotel right on Main Street.

Or head to Burlington, the largest city in Vermont and home to the University of Vermont.  Shop ‘til your heart’s content at the Church Street Marketplace or grab a quick bite at one of the many unique bistros and restaurants.  For something different, take a Burlington Brew Tour.  Vermont is home to a large number of craft breweries.  You can also visit ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center, the Fleming Museum of Art on the UVM campus, Lake Champlain Chocolates (where you can see how the chocolates are made), or take a Segway Tour of the city. Make your visit truly memorable and stay nearby at The Essex, Vermont’s Culinary Resort & Spa, a hotel that not only gives you a place to sleep, but also offers world-class cuisine and a full service spa.

For visitors from out of state, April is a very good time to come to visit.  Many hotels offer rock-bottom room rates to entice visitors during this “off-season.”  For example, The Grafton Inn in Grafton, Vt., is offering a spring specials for midweek throughout the month plus a special rate for the week of April 20-27. Or head to Stowe and take advantage of specials available at the Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa and maybe squeeze in a little spring skiing.

Whether you gravitate to the outdoors or would rather limit your experiences to indoor activities, April in Vermont can promise to entertain and amaze.  Don’t let the end of winter deter you from enjoying everything Vermont has to offer at this time of the year.