72 Hours in Rutland and Vermont’s Stone Valley
Murals, marshes, and miles of trails
Surrounded by the Green Mountains on one side and the Taconics on the other, Rutland anchors a region shaped by creativity, slate and marble mining heritage, and wide-open landscapes. The downtown area of this small Vermont city is listed as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places and has been revitalized with new shops, galleries, and restaurants. You’ll also find weekly farmers markets and a growing arts scene that brings fresh energy to the community.
Beyond Rutland, the towns of Castleton and Poultney each have their own distinct vibe and sense of history. The three-day itinerary below starts in the city and also follows Route 30 south through the heart of the Stone Valley. It highlights the art, trails, lakes, and towns that characterize this wonderful part of Vermont.
DAY ONE
Enjoy murals and meals in downtown Rutland
Start your first morning in Rutland at Pine Hill Park, located in the city’s northwest corner. The park’s 16-mile network of pedestrian and singletrack trails and quiet forested paths — built and maintained by local volunteers — cater to both hikers and mountain bikers. On a peaceful morning, it’s not uncommon to see deer or wild turkey wandering through the trees. The park is linked to the larger Redfield Trails system, which gives mountain bikers the opportunity to explore just beyond the city limits.
Afterward, grab lunch at Taco Fresco. This easygoing local spot is known for burritos, rice bowls, and tacos made with fresh ingredients. It’s a convenient refueling stop after your morning outside. The restaurant’s tequila bar is also a great place to cool off with a frozen margarita or glass of sangria.
After lunch, make your way through downtown Rutland to admire the city’s public art scene, which includes more than 20 large-scale murals and installations. You’ll also find a dozen marble creations, paying homage to Rutland’s legacy as one of the world’s preeminent marble quarries. A self-guided walking tour reveals how artists have honored iconic figures, local landscapes, and history in colorful and creative ways. Make a point to pop into the Chaffee Art Center, a nonprofit gallery located in a historic Victorian mansion, to check out rotating exhibitions by Vermont artists.
If the timing lines up, catch a show at the Paramount Theatre. Known locally as The Playhouse, the restored 1913 venue still draws a crowd, with a rotating calendar of films, concerts, and performances. Beforehand, catch a farm-forward dinner at Roots the Restaurant, a refined but relaxed spot in downtown Rutland. Seasonal produce and regional meats are the backbone of the menu — don’t miss the homemade gnocchi or the creative vegetarian plates.
Rutland, Vermont from Town to Trail
In Rutland, Vermont, outdoor adventure and everyday life connect in this small, walkable, and energized city. Mirna Valerio, a.k.a. “The Mirnavator,” shares a favorite spot, Pine Hill Park. Just blocks from downtown, this 275-acre forest has an awesome, community-built trail system with mountain biking and pedestrian paths. This outdoor access, along with colorful murals and a creative local food scene, sets Rutland apart.
DAY TWO
Slow down and savor Vermont’s Stone Valley
Today’s route heads into the marshes and marble of West Rutland, then continues west to begin your journey throughout the Stone Valley region. Kick things off with a visit to West Rutland Marsh, where a flat boardwalk trail winds through wetlands. As a designated Important Bird Area, the site draws birders hoping to glimpse, or even hear, the elusive Least Bittern. You might also spot American Bittern, Marsh Wren, or Virginia Rail among the cattails. Bring binoculars if you have them, as more than 150 species have been recorded here over the seasons. Even if birding isn’t your thing, it’s worth visiting to take in the natural view and sound of the wind moving through the reeds.
Next, check out art in action at the Carving Studio & Sculpture Center. Set on the grounds of a former marble quarry, this working studio hosts sculptors from around the world. Many of the sculptures on site were created during annual symposia by artists from as far away as Japan, Italy, and South Korea. Wander among massive works in progress and stone installations, or check the calendar for open houses, artist talks, and year-round workshops.
In the afternoon, continue west about 10 miles to visit picturesque Castleton. The town is a gateway to the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail, which cuts through open farmland and once carried slate from nearby quarries. Bike or take a walk along the trail directly from town. Grab a meal at Birdseye Diner, a vintage 1940s Worcester Lunch Car that’s still serving hearty breakfasts and treats with a bit of local flavor (the Maple Mocha milkshake is a must-try).
Just outside of downtown Castleton is Lake Bomoseen, which spans 3,576 acres in the Taconic Mountains. Its namesake state park hugs the shores of the largest lake contained entirely within Vermont’s borders, where visitors can take advantage of the day use access and enjoy swimming and paddling. Lakeside dining options are available at the Lake House Pub and Grille and Lake Bomoseen Lodge and Taproom.
Finally, head to Taconic Mountains Ramble State Park, one of the newest in the state, at golden hour. This park contains numerous trails located on steep, rocky, challenging terrain. A Japanese garden, created by the park’s former landowner, filmmaker Carson Davidson, is accessed by a very steep, hilly trail.
DAY THREE
Spend a quiet day by the lake in Poultney
On your final day, follow Route 30 farther south toward Poultney. This charming small town along the Stone Valley Byway is home to cafes, bookstores, and local shops. Fill up with breakfast at Rail Trail Eatery, then take a walk down Main Street to check out the town’s buildings and classic New England village green. Poultney was once a hub for the slate industry and still shows off that heritage in its architecture and streetscapes, many of which feature slate sidewalks and fences.
Spend the afternoon at Lake St. Catherine State Park, a 117-acre natural area that wraps around a quiet lake. You can swim from the sandy beach, rent a pedal boat from the concession stand, or play a round of disc golf beneath the trees. As the sun dips low, keep an eye on the shoreline, as white-tailed deer often appear at dusk; every so often, moose pass through as well.
From downtown murals to quiet lakes and forest trails, the Stone Valley is a place where each day unfolds at its own easy pace. Make Rutland the starting point of your three-day escape and let the road take you from there.