Nestled between the shores of Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains is the charming New England town of Charlotte, Vermont. With its rolling hills, quaint farms, and historical covered bridges, Charlotte is the perfect destination for those looking to experience classic Vermont scenery and hospitality.

Charlotte is a small Vermont town south of Shelburne and Burlington on the Lake Champlain shoreline

Many of the back roads traversing the town of Charlotte are scenic with views of Camel's Hump and Lake Champlain. Although Charlotte is a small village it certainly is picturesque and has that “Vermont feel”. Lake Champlain ferry access to New York is accessible in Charlotte and you're just minutes away from the Shelburne Apple Orchards.

Charlotte was first settled in 1762 and played an important role in Vermont's statehood, hosting the convention that ratified the state constitution in 1791. Today, Charlotte's small downtown area still exudes historic New England charm, with several buildings dating back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Be sure to stop by the Old Brick Store, built in 1824.

Outdoorsy types will love Charlotte's proximity to Lake Champlain, the largest freshwater lake in the U.S. aside from the Great Lakes. The lake provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and gorgeous sunsets over the Adirondack Mountains. Hiking trails abound, including the interpretive Cedar Lake Trail winding through conserved land. Or take a scenic drive down Route 7 to discover the area's covered bridges, including the photogenic Holmes Covered Bridge from 1883.

The Holmes Creek Covered Bridge in Charlotte, Vermont

The Holmes Covered Bridge is a historic wooden covered bridge located in Charlotte, Vermont. Built in 1883, it spans Laplatte River and is one of the few remaining 19th century covered bridges in the state. The bridge is 98 feet long and features a Town lattice truss design with added arch braces.

It was named after Dr. John Milton Holmes, who financed a portion of the bridge's construction costs. The Holmes Covered Bridge is maintained by the Vermont Agency of Transportation and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Today, it remains a beloved local landmark in Charlotte and provides scenic views of the surrounding Vermont countryside.

Only 10 minutes from Burlington, VT., Charlotte offers a bit less hectic way of life in a laid back, typical Vermont fashion

Charlotte is also an antique-lovers paradise, with several shops dotted along Main Street and throughout the town. Don't miss the Charlotte Congregational Church's antique show held annually each July. And for local artisanship, stop by the Folk Art Gallery, featuring Vermont-made crafts, jewelry, pottery, and more.

With its blend of historical and outdoor attractions, Charlotte makes for a quintessential Vermont vacation full of natural beauty and small town charm. Its location right between Burlington and Middlebury also makes it easy to explore the best of the Green Mountain State. Whether you come for the village vibe or the Lake Champlain views, Charlotte is sure to delight.

It's no wonder that the drive through town along Rte 7 is often referred to as one of the most scenic drives in Vermont.

Whether you're in the mood for a slow Sunday drive or a casual hike, Charlotte is a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon. Take the ferry to Essex, NY for a quick 20 minute excursion.

The drive to the top of Mt. Philo in Charlotte, VT only takes about 5 or 10 minutes

For those who prefer to hike, you can park at the bottom and walk up the hiking trail which is a fairly short 15 minute hike through the woods to to the top. There are two small camping areas at the top and an enclosed picnic shelter area. Mt. Philo is a short, easily accessible mountain with spectacular views.

A Freaky Mt Philo Vermont Ghost Story?

Is Mt Philo haunted? What's up with the broom that was caught on video standing by itself at Mt Philo?
There is possibly a new ghost story at Charlotte’s Mount Philo State Park. “The interesting part of this story is one of the girls, a very cute brown eyed blond about three feet tall, admitted she was the initiator of the stone throwing. She tells me “there was a ghost floating in the window. He was tall, bald, and had his hands outstretched.” She stretched her arms out and says “not really like this but more like this.” 

If seeing is truly believing, check out the video below and Mt. Philo Ranger John Frigault sharing the intriguing ghost story on the VT State Parks blog.

Spectacular Lake Champlain Views from Mt Philo State Park

Rising above Charlotte is the centerpiece of Mt. Philo State Park, the small mountain of Mt. Philo. At just 968 feet, Mt. Philo offers visitors panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks beyond that are unrivaled for the minimal effort. A paved road leads to the summit, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities.

At the top, a 0.6 mile trail loops around the mountaintop, with several lookouts facing east, south, and west. To the east, views of the Champlain Valley expand for miles, the lake dotted with sailboats during warmer months. Looking south, one can take in the historic village of Charlotte nestled below. And to the west, the fertile farmlands of Vermont roll gently toward the green peaks of the Adirondacks. Sunset is a particularly scenic time, as the fading light casts a glow over the landscape below.

In addition to its famous vistas, Mt. Philo is home to hiking trails traversing old quarries and wooded hillsides marked by exposed cliffs. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular during wintertime. You simply will not want to miss the panoramic views of the Champlain Valley's lush summertime and autumn landscape.

With remarkable scenery accessible to all, Mt. Philo State Park is a must-visit for any trip to Charlotte and the Lake Champlain region. The mountain's stunning Champlain Valley outlook makes for an unforgettable Vermont sight.

Other area attractions around the Charlotte area include the Basin Harbor Maritime Museum and Dakin Farms, in nearby Ferrisburgh. Shelburne Museum and Vermont Teddy Bear are located in nearby Shelburne, VT.

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