Summer at Stratton Mountain: What the Resort Offers When There's No Snow

Stratton operates year-round and has invested in summer programming. The experience is different from winter -- quieter, more relaxed, and genuinely worth planning around if you're visiting Vermont in summer.

The Gondola Sightseeing Ride

In summer and fall, the Stratton gondola operates for sightseeing rather than skiing. The ride takes you to 3,900 feet of elevation with views extending to Mount Washington on clear days. It's one of the easier ways to get a real mountain perspective without hiking. Check Stratton's website for current dates -- the schedule varies by year.

Mountain Biking

Stratton has developed a network of mountain bike trails using the ski terrain. Trails range from wide, groomed beginner paths to more technical singletrack. The chairlift operates for uphill transport during bike season. Bike rentals are available at the resort base. Mountain bike season typically runs late June through mid-October.

Golf

The Stratton Mountain Country Club has an 18-hole golf course and a 9-hole executive course. For groups who golf, this is a convenient option -- you're already staying nearby and tee times can be reserved through the resort. The mountain setting makes for an interesting course layout with elevation changes.

Hiking from the Resort

The Appalachian Trail and Long Trail run through the Stratton Mountain area. The Stratton Mountain summit trail and Stratton Pond trail are accessed from the Kelley Stand Road, about 10 minutes from the resort base.

Surrounding Area Summer Activities

  • Hiking: Stratton Pond, Jamaica State Park gorge, Bromley Mountain -- all within 30 minutes
  • Swimming: Jamaica State Park West River swimming holes, Ball Mountain Lake, Townshend Lake
  • Farmers markets: Manchester Farmers Market on weekends through October
  • Road cycling: The roads through Winhall, Jamaica, and Londonderry are good cycling terrain -- low traffic, rolling hills, genuine Vermont scenery

When to Visit in Summer

July and August are peak summer months. September is arguably the best month: cooler temperatures, foliage starting to develop, less crowded than peak summer, and all activities still running. A summer or fall stay at Far Away is a completely different experience from winter -- quieter, greener, and excellent for groups who want a Vermont mountain house without the ski infrastructure.

Check availability for summer dates.