This journal entry was part of the NEK Getaway Quiz, a contest we ran in Summer 2022. While you can’t take the quiz anymore, you can still reap the benefits! Dive into our Adventure Seeker itinerary to uncover the raw, natural experiences of the Kingdom.
Adventure Seekers are often the life of the party! You are outgoing, confident, and like to stay busy. Though sometimes you may push it a bit too far, life is certainly never boring.
Whether hiking, biking, snowboarding, or wake surfing, you enjoy hobbies that get your adrenaline pumping and heart racing. You enjoy spending time outdoors no matter the weather. You’re always up to try something new and never say no to a sunrise hike!
CowMoo has put together the ultimate Adventure Seeker Checklist to help you uncover the raw, gritty, natural elements of the Northeast Kingdom. Traverse across the Kingdom for each of these feats or build a trip around the activity and the Destination Area it lives in. Are you up for the challenge?
NEK Adventure Seeker Checklist
Complete a Swim with Kingdom Games
Conquer the waters of Lake Memphremagog by completing a swim with Kingdom Games. This world-class venue for recreational athletic events and activities offers over 50 days of running, biking open water swimming, and winter swimming. Kingdom Games events take place in the Mountain & Lake Getaway.
Up for the ultimate challenge? Try Memphremagog Winter Swimming Festival in late February 2023.
Traverse the 20 Miles of Kingdom Heritage Trail
For an immersive experience in a working forest, traverse 20 miles from Island Pond to Lewis Pond Overlook in Silvio O. Conte National Wildlife Refuge. This network links several backcountry paths that access a variety of remote, forested terrain and offers solitude and an immersive experience with a variety of aesthetic and challenging features.
Remote and unpatrolled areas where hazards, changing conditions, and varied terrain all can affect your safety. Be prepared for a backcountry emergency. Cell phone service is limited, and in many areas, not available.
Hike a Mountain Peak Before Sunrise
From the restored fire tower on the Bald Mountain summit, the 360-degree view includes Lake Willoughby, Seymour Lake, Lake Memphremagog, parts of the Green Mountains, and all of the White Mountains. This hike also includes glimpses of old telegraph lines and is in the Eastern Trek.
Set your sights on Jay Peak for sunrise and expect stunning views of Champlain Valley, Quebec, and the entire Northeast Kingdom. Slightly under 2 miles, this hike is rigorous and rewarding and found in Mountain & Lake Getaway.
Please use your best judgement before heading out on a hike and only attempt a sunrise trek if you are an experienced hiker.
Experience an NEK-Must & Send-It!
No NEK challenge checklist is complete without winding down trails on a mountain bike.
In Farm & Field, go off the beaten path to Craftsbury Outdoor Center. Known for its Olympic-level training facilities for Nordic skiing and sculling, the Center also has some rad trails where you can avoid the crowds. Stay overnight to be surrounded by other adventure-seekers, enjoy a swim in the lake, and the amazing food.
Spend the day at Kingdom Trails, where you can explore over 100 miles of private, non-motorized trails from all throughout the Eastern Trek area. Visit their website for a list of suggested routes based on your skill level.
Finish A Flight
Once your adrenaline has worn off, head to Next Trick Brewing in Burke to kick back, relax, and try a flight! Choose from 8 styles of beer or try the Blind Flight Challenge, where you can test your craft beer knowledge while blindfolded!
Try Kingdom Table, Dirt Church, or a host of other local breweries in the Eastern Trek. Looking for breweries to stop at across the Kingdom? Check out our CooMoo list.