Last Updated: May 2026
Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is the state’s best-kept secret — a vast, largely undeveloped stretch of forests, farms, and glacial lakes that feels like it was left behind by time in the best possible way. We based ourselves in Barton to visit Sandy’s parents Rich and Sylvia, explore the stunning Lake Willoughby, and meet the newest member of their family: Sadie, an eight-week-old chocolate Labrador who immediately stole the show.
Meet Sadie
Sandy’s parents had just brought home a new chocolate Lab puppy named Sadie — eight weeks old, all paws and ears, completely fearless. Watching her bound around the yard and wrestle with everything in sight was the perfect antidote to months of highway driving. Sandy’s parents Rich and Sylvia were clearly smitten, and honestly, so were we.
Lake Willoughby
Yankee Magazine once ranked Lake Willoughby the third best lake in all of New England, and it’s easy to see why. The lake is unlike anything else in Vermont — a deep, narrow glacial fjord flanked by the sheer cliffs of Mount Hor to the west and Mount Pisgah to the east. The water is so clear you can see thirty feet down on a calm day. We couldn’t visit without hiking at least one of the surrounding peaks.
Hiking Mount Hor
The Mount Hor trail climbs through dense forest before breaking out onto open ledges with jaw-dropping views down the length of Lake Willoughby. The lake stretches away between the cliffs far below, and on a clear day you can see well into Quebec to the north. It’s not a long hike, but the payoff is one of the finest views in Vermont.
May Pond
On a quieter afternoon we wandered over to May Pond — a small, serene lake tucked into the Northeast Kingdom hills. Far from any crowds, it had the kind of peaceful, reflective quality that makes Vermont feel like it exists slightly outside the rest of the world.
Crystal Lake & a Birthday Celebration
We gathered at Crystal Lake for a birthday party — one of those easy Vermont summer afternoons with family, water, and no particular agenda. Crystal Lake is another gem of the Northeast Kingdom, popular with locals and largely unknown to the wider world.
Shooting Range with Rich
Sandy and her dad Rich headed to the local shooting range for some target practice — a tradition whenever we visit. Good fun and a reminder that the Northeast Kingdom has its own distinct culture, equal parts Yankee independence and outdoors lifestyle.
White Caps Campground & Prouty Beach
We stayed at White Caps Campground, a well-equipped 30-amp site in the area. One notable quirk: a clothing-optional beach nearby — not something we’d have guessed Vermont was known for, but the Northeast Kingdom has always done things its own way. We also spent time at Prouty Beach Campground in Newport, right on the shores of Lake Memphremagog, which straddles the Vermont–Quebec border. The lake stretches 33 miles north into Canada, and watching the sun set over that kind of expanse puts everything in perspective.
Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center
The Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center in Newport showcases the region’s food and drink producers — local cheeses, craft beers, wines, and spirits under one roof. It’s a great way to sample the agricultural richness of the Kingdom without driving to a dozen separate farms and creameries.
Visitor Information
Lake Willoughby & Mount Hor
Lake Willoughby is in Westmore, VT, about 20 miles northeast of Barton. The Mount Hor trailhead is on the west side of the lake off Route 5A. No fee; free roadside parking at the trailhead. The round-trip hike to the summit ledges is approximately 3.5 miles with 1,100 feet of elevation gain.
White Caps Campground
White Caps Campground is near Barton and offers full hookup and 30-amp sites. Reservations recommended in summer.
Prouty Beach Campground
Prouty Beach Campground is a city-owned facility in Newport, VT, on the shore of Lake Memphremagog. It offers a mix of tent and RV sites with lake access and beautiful sunset views toward Quebec.
Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center
Located in downtown Newport, VT. Check local listings for current hours, as the center’s schedule varies by season.
Practical Tips
Best time to hike Mount Hor: Mid-June through October gives the clearest summit views. Avoid early June if you’re bug-sensitive — black fly season in the Northeast Kingdom peaks around late May to mid-June.
Lake Willoughby swimming: The south beach off Route 5A is the most popular swim spot. Water temperatures stay cold even in summer — this is a deep glacial lake — so come prepared.
RV note: The Northeast Kingdom has limited RV-specific infrastructure compared to southern Vermont. Book campgrounds in advance in July and August. Cell service is spotty in many areas — download offline maps before you arrive.
Exploring the Kingdom: Budget at least two or three days. The region rewards slow travel — there are covered bridges, sugarhouses, farmstands, and back-road scenery around every corner, but it doesn’t give up its charms on a rushed day trip.
