GREEN MOUNTAIN NATIONAL FOREST
Sandgate Vermont
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Bear Mountain
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION | SANDGATE VT
Bear Mountain is the highest point in Sandgate, Vermont, with an elevation of 3,301 feet. This scenic mountain offers hikers challenging trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding Taconic Range. Nature enthusiasts can explore diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the serene beauty of the Green Mountain State's wilderness.
2. Green Mountain National Forest
VAST OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND | SANDGATE VT
Green Mountain National Forest encompasses a significant portion of Sandgate, offering a vast outdoor playground for nature lovers. This expansive forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities like cross-country skiing. Visitors can immerse themselves in Vermont's pristine wilderness and enjoy stunning vistas of the Taconic Mountains.
3. Batten Kill River
PREMIER FISHING & RECREATION | SANDGATE VT
Batten Kill River, flowing through Sandgate, is renowned for its excellent trout fishing and scenic beauty. This pristine waterway offers opportunities for fly fishing, kayaking, and tubing. The river's clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil Vermont experience.
4. Equinox Mountain
SCENIC MOUNTAIN SLOPES | SANDGATE VT
Equinox Mountain's lower slopes extend into eastern Sandgate, offering scenic hiking trails and stunning views. While the summit is in Manchester, Sandgate residents and visitors can enjoy the mountain's beauty and recreational opportunities. The area provides a perfect setting for nature walks, birdwatching, and experiencing Vermont's diverse ecosystems.
5. Sandgate Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK | SANDGATE VT
Sandgate Church, a historic religious landmark, stands as a testament to the town's rich heritage. This charming white clapboard church, with its classic New England architecture, offers a glimpse into Sandgate's past. Visitors can admire the building's simple yet elegant design and peaceful surroundings, reflecting the town's rural character.
6. Kreffers Crossing Bridge
HISTORIC COVERED BRIDGE | SANDGATE VT
Kreffers Crossing Bridge is a picturesque covered bridge in Sandgate, Vermont. This historic structure spans the Green River, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's architectural heritage. The bridge provides a perfect photo opportunity and serves as a charming reminder of Vermont's rural past, nestled in the scenic countryside.
7. Arlington Green Covered Bridge
ICONIC VERMONT LANDMARK | ARLINGTON VT
Arlington Green Covered Bridge, located nearby in Arlington, is an iconic Vermont landmark. This 80-foot-long bridge, built in 1852, spans the Batten Kill River and is one of the most photographed covered bridges in the state. Visitors can admire its classic design and enjoy the surrounding picturesque landscape.
8. The Sugar Shack
AUTHENTIC MAPLE EXPERIENCE | ARLINGTON VT
The Sugar Shack in Arlington offers visitors an authentic Vermont maple syrup experience. This family-owned operation allows guests to witness the traditional syrup-making process, from tapping trees to boiling sap. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about maple production, and purchase a variety of pure Vermont maple products.
9. Battenkill Valley Outdoors
RIVER ADVENTURES & RENTALS | ARLINGTON VT
Battenkill Valley Outdoors in Arlington provides exciting river adventures and equipment rentals for exploring the Batten Kill. This outfitter offers canoe, kayak, and tube rentals, along with guided fishing trips. Visitors can enjoy scenic floats, fishing excursions, or self-guided trips on one of Vermont's most beautiful rivers.
10. Southern Vermont Arts Center
CULTURAL & ARTISTIC HUB | MANCHESTER VT
Southern Vermont Arts Center in Manchester is a vibrant cultural hub showcasing visual and performing arts. The center features rotating exhibitions, sculpture gardens, and a performance space. Visitors can explore diverse artworks, attend concerts and events, or participate in art classes and workshops, all set against the backdrop of stunning mountain views.
Sandgate Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN SANDGATE
Sandgate, Vermont, is a small town nestled in the heart of the Taconic Mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. This picturesque community is surrounded by the expansive forests of the Taconic Range, offering visitors and residents alike a serene rural environment with vast backcountry, cascading mountain streams, abundant wildlife, and spectacular vistas. Sandgate's outstanding natural landscape contributes significantly to the quality of life for both its residents and visitors, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
One of the most prominent attractions in Sandgate is Bear Mountain, which boasts a summit of 3,301 feet and is the highest point in the town. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails that wind through the rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The eastern part of Sandgate includes the lower slopes of Equinox Mountain, providing additional opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic vistas.
For those interested in water-based activities, the Batten Kill river, which forms part of Sandgate's watershed, is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and tubing. The river is renowned for its trout fishing and offers a refreshing escape during the warmer months. Additionally, the Green Mountain National Forest, which encompasses much of the area, provides extensive opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing, and seasonal activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
While Sandgate itself is a quiet rural community, its proximity to nearby towns like Manchester and Arlington allows visitors to enjoy a range of cultural and historical attractions. The area is home to several covered bridges, historic sites, and quaint New England villages that offer a glimpse into Vermont's rich heritage. For those seeking a truly unique experience, the Carthusian monastery located high on the slopes of Mt. Equinox in the eastern part of Sandgate provides a fascinating point of interest, although it is not open to the public. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, explore charming Vermont towns, or simply enjoy the tranquility of rural life, Sandgate and its surrounding areas offer a diverse array of attractions and activities for all seasons.