Discover Wardsboro

A stay in Wardsboro brings together several themes: the landscape shaped by the Green Mountains, local history, and local traditions. Other points of reference include Vermont Route 100 and McMichael Town Park. What matters most to you may depend on whether you are particularly interested in nature, history, events, or seasonal recreation.

Mountains, Forests, and Streams

Wardsboro’s landscape is defined by mountains and hills. The highest elevations are in the southern part of town; higher ground forms the backdrop for most of the notable scenic views. Around 90 percent of Wardsboro is forested. About two-thirds of the town lies within the proclamation boundary of the Green Mountain National Forest, which is also the largest publicly owned area in Wardsboro. These figures show different aspects of the natural landscape: its high proportion of forest and its extensive connection to the national forest.

The natural surroundings offer opportunities for hiking, particularly in the expansive Green Mountain National Forest within the town. Waterways are also part of the landscape, and wild populations of brook trout and brown trout live there. Together, Wardsboro’s wooded ridges, scenic views, and waterways make up a natural setting whose highlights you can take into account when planning your trip.

Getting Around Along Vermont Route 100

Vermont Route 100 runs through Wardsboro alongside Wardsboro Brook, from the western boundary with Stratton to the northern boundary with Jamaica. The state-maintained route extends 7.4 miles within the town and provides regional access to the 46.8-mile network of town-maintained roads. The two figures help distinguish the different scales: 7.4 miles refers to the stretch of Route 100 in Wardsboro, while 46.8 miles refers to the municipal road network as a whole. Together, they provide a clear picture of the town’s road system and its regional connections.

Local History and Traditions

Wardsboro Town Hall was built in 1907 and rebuilt after a fire in 1928. It is also listed in the Vermont Register of Historic Sites. The construction and rebuilding dates place the building within the town’s history, while the listing adds to its historical significance. If you are interested in local history, Wardsboro Town Hall is an example of the town’s architectural heritage.

An important local event tradition is Wardsboro’s July 4th Street Fair and Parade. It has been held annually since 1949 and is considered the longest continuously celebrated Fourth of July event in the state of Vermont. It regularly attracts about 4,000 people, though attendance can vary from year to year. If you would like to plan your trip around the celebration, check the exact event date in advance.

Another local tradition revolves around the Gilfeather turnip. Wardsboro is considered the first place where it was grown and harvested. Since 2001, the entire town has celebrated the turnip. Alongside the long-running annual Fourth of July event, this tradition offers a distinct glimpse into Wardsboro’s community customs, without requiring the events to take place on the same dates.

McMichael Town Park Throughout the Year

McMichael Town Park is located in Wardsboro Village and has a skate park. In winter, volunteers can flood the skating area for ice skating after setting up the necessary equipment. This option therefore depends on seasonal preparations by volunteers. If ice skating is important to your plans, check before visiting to see whether the equipment has been set up.

Discover more destinations: Putney, Halifax, Whitingham, Dummerston, Rockingham, Stratton, Newfane, West Dover.

For the broader travel guide: Windham County.